Page 85 of Deuce

“How is she?”

“She’s much better. She um… she had open heart surgery a few months ago. It’s been a little hard, but she’s recovered and she’s back at work.”

“That’s a blessing. I’m glad she’s well. You tell her she’s welcomed here, too. Iman was a big part of our family for a long time. We loved him. It’s so ironic that you and Deuce are… well, doing whatever you’re doing.” She turned to him. “You be good to her, you hear me?”

“I hear you, Grams.”

She gently touched his face. “Y’all come on in the kitchen. I’m about to put you both to work.”

We followed her into the kitchen where two other women were preparing food. Deuce introduced them as his Aunt Jeanie and Mia’s mother, Maddie. Both were beautiful woman who’d held onto their youth. I could see why his father had a hard time choosing women.

Mrs. Dillinger put us to work peeling sweet potatoes. While we worked, she asked me about myself, and she even told me stories about my father. It was like getting a glimpse of his past. I only ever knew the man that raised me. I never thought about the life he lived before I was conceived.

After a few hours, Jaeda and Mia strolled in. Both were surprised to see me there. They didn’t miss the opportunity to poke fun at their brother for seemingly being whipped. Of course, they didn’t let me ease by either. They talked major shit about the way we acted with each other now versus the night we all hung out.

Not too long after they showed up did Deuce’s father and Maceo come strolling in. When Mace saw me, he grinned and elbowed his dad.

Nodding his head at me, he said, “Pool table.”

I was mortified as his father smirked. I was stuck as Maceo came to hug me, but Deuce mushed him.

“Back yo’ gossiping ass up,” he said.

I took the opportunity to smack his arm. “I can’t believe you would bring that up!”

“What about a pool table?” Grams asked.

“Nothing, Grams,” Deuce answered.

His siblings were doubled over in laughter while everyone but his father looked on in confusion. Mr. Dillinger walked over to me, and kissed my cheek.

“It’s nice to meet you, Salima.”

“It’s nice to meet you, too,” I mumbled.

“Don’t be embarrassed. None of my kids have any couth.”

“They have it honest,” Maddie said, giving him a side eye.

He grinned at her. “Damn, baby. That’s how you feel?”

“You know how you are. Deuce, is your mama coming today?”

“I don’t know. She might be with her lil’ boyfriend.”

His father frowned. “Boyfriend? Since when did a coffee date turn into her having a boyfriend?”

Maddie placed a hand on her hip. “Since when do you care?”

“I’m just saying.”

Deuce shook his head. “Man, she’s been dating that nigga for six months and didn’t tell me anything. Jaeda, I ain’t playing with you. I need his information.”

“Deuce, I’m not getting in Mama Steph’s business. Leave that lady alone.”

He frowned. “A’ight, when I catch a body, I don’t wanna hear no shit.”

“Stanley, let your mama live!” his grandmother fussed. “She hasn’t dated anybody since your loose ass daddy.”

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