Page 63 of Deuce

“I don’t know. Maybe I misjudged you.”

“Ya’ think? If you’re nice to me, maybe I’ll take you out there one of these days.”

“If I’m nice. You’re at my house. You’ve beeninmy house, uninvited I might add. But you have stipulations on me coming over.”

“I’m not your man, remember?”

She rolled her eyes. “Whatever, Stanley.”

I reached out and brushed a stray hair from her face. My finger trailed her jaw, then down between her breast before wrapping around her throat. She moaned softly as I brought my face to hers.

“Again… what did I tell you about that shit?” I asked, peering down at her.

Her face held a smirk and shit bit her lip. “What are you gonna do to stop me?”

“Oh, it’s plenty I could?—”

The sound of the locks disengaging made me drop my hand. The door opened and Mrs. Navarro stood in her robe and bonnet with her arms crossed.

“Sir. That car is loud as hell. I don’t know where you live, but around here, people are trying to sleep this time of night.”

“My apologies, ma’am,” I said, my hand over my heart.

“Mmm hmm. Thank you for bringing my baby home, but it’s late and ain’t nothing open this time of night but gas stations, Waffle House, and legs.”

“Mama!” Salima exclaimed.

I chuckled. “It’s okay,” I assured her. “I’m gonna win you over, Mrs. Navarro.”

“I’m sure you’re just as charming as your daddy.”

“Oh, so you know my father?”

Her eyes passed over me. “I do and I knew your face was familiar. I’m sure the apple doesn’t fall too far from the tree.”

“Mother,” Salima said firmly.

“Say goodnight to your friend, Salima.”

Salima rolled her eyes and sighed. “Good night, Deuce. Thank you again for the ride. I’ll see you on Monday.”

“I have business to take care of Monday, but I’ll make sure I see you. Goodnight.” I leaned in and kissed her cheek, before turning to her mother. “Goodnight, Mrs. Navarro.”

“Goodnight, Stanley.”

I bowed slightly before turning on my heels and heading back to my car. I smirked to myself. I could clearly see where Salima got her attitude from. Mrs. Navarro would be a tougher nut to crack than her daughter. It would take more than my charm to win her over.

Luckily, I was always up for a challenge.

“I letyou live last night because it was late, but what are you doing with that man, Salima?”

I’d just gone into the kitchen to make me some coffee, and here my mama went starting. She barely said good morning! When she didn’t say anything last night, I took it as she was gonna mind the rest of her business. I thought wrong.

“Mommy—”

“Don’t Mommy me.”

I sighed as I poured my cup of coffee. I waited until I was done mixing in the creamer and sugar before I addressed her. When I turned around, she was looking at me, waiting for an answer.

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