Page 101 of Deuce

“What’s that for?” I asked.

“The surprise. Turn around so I can put it on you.”

“What’s the big secret.”

“See, that’s the reason for the blindfold. Turn yo’ big head ass around, woman.”

I playfully punched him before reluctantly complying. He covered my eyes, then pulled onto the street.

We drove for what seemed like forever until I felt the car come to a stop. The driver’s side door slammed shut and the next thing I knew, my door opened, and he was pulling me out.

Tightly, I gripped his hand as he led me. When I heard a ding, I knew we were getting on an elevator. It began moving, then stopped shortly after. Again, he led me to only God knows where. The sound of keys jingling caused my ears to perk up.

“Baby.”

“Just a few more steps.”

We did just that before I felt his hands leave my body. I could feel him behind me, undoing my blindfold.

“Keep your eyes closed,” he instructed.

My feet tittered in excitement. “Hurry up!”

He tsked. “So damn impatient. Alright on the count of three. One. Two. Two and a half. Two and three quarters?—”

“Stanley!”

He laughed. “A’ight, a’ight. Three.”

I opened my eyes to the most beautifully decorated space. I instantly fell in love with the open concept. The living room was spacious with a beautiful view of the city thanks the wall-to-wall windows with doors leading out to the perfect outside oasis.

The living room was decorated in gorgeous shades of cream and beige furniture with powder pink accents. Mounted on the wall above a fireplace was a television that had to be at least seventy inches and included a surround sound.

The kitchen adorned quartz countertops and stainless-steel appliances. In the middle of the huge island was a bouquet of red roses, an edible arrangement, and balloons. There were also several gift bags from luxury designers.

My eyes widened at the sight.

“Deuce… what is this?”

I turned to find him holding out a set of keys to me.

“Welcome home.”

“What!”

“I can’t be fucking you in your childhood bedroom. I mean, I will, but I prefer privacy. My family owns this building, so you don’t have to worry about rent. You’re the only person on this floor so you don’t have to worry about neighbors either.”

“Deuce… you… you got me an apartment. Why would you do that?”

“Because you deserve to be taken care of. I know I’ve been all up and through your business with the file my sister pulled on you. I know how much and what you sacrificed to take care of your mama when she needed you. Paying off the house and medical bills was for both of y’all, but this is for you. I want you to finish what you started. Go back to school. Get your degree. Open your own business. Whatever you need to do for you, I’m here to support it.”

I shook my head. “I can’t…. I can’t let you do this. It’s too much.”

“Too much for who? You’re my woman, right?”

“Yes, but?—”

“Shouldn’t a man take care of his woman?”

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