Page 25 of The Best is Yet to Cum

“They’ve been solid since we met. I hope they didn’t offend you.”

“Nah, not at all. I’d be concerned if they didn’t give a damn.”

“There have been times they’ve cared more about me than I did.”

He squeezed my hand as we entered the elevator. We rode to the lobby in silence, not speaking again until we were in his truck.

“I sense some nervous energy. You good?”

“I’m okay, but I’m nervous.”

“There’s no need to be. My friends and their wives are cool.”

“You don’t think it’ll be awkward between me and Evander’s wife?”

Last week, he asked me what was the last straw that made me finally file for divorce. He said he vaguely recalled Evander mentioning the situation, but it was quite some time ago.

“Why would it be awkward? Austyn is cool as hell and happily married with children. I assure you, your ex is the furthest thing from her mind.”

“That’s not what I mean. I know she’s not thinking about him. You don’t think being around me, knowing she slept with my husband, might be uncomfortable?”

“A better question is will it be uncomfortable for you, because Austyn don’t give a fuck about that nigga.”

I sighed because maybe my comfort level was the issue. Clinton and I were having a child together and these were his friends. Even if I didn’t see them often, I was sure there would be times we’d share the same space.Did I have a problem with being around one of Winston’s former lovers?

“It’s me.”

“Baby, I understand your reservations, but I promise everyone will welcome you with open arms. If you feel uncomfortable, we can leave.”

“Okay.”

He reached across the console, caressed my thigh, and began to massage gently.

“How do you feel about sharing our news?”

“About the baby?” He nodded. “You haven’t told them?”

“No, I haven’t told anyone because I wasn’t sure if you were ready to share.”

“Do you think we should wait until after my first appointment?”

“If that’s what you want.”

“This is your baby too. What do you want to do?”

“Baby, I’m not the one carrying the baby. I don’t want to rush you to do something you’re not ready to do.”

I thought about it for a moment before responding.

“My friends already know, so if you’d like to share with your friends, I’m good with that.”

He turned to look at me for a moment. “Are you sure?”

“I’m positive. Let’s tell them.”

We listened to an R&B station while he rubbed my thigh for the remainder of our trip. He parked in the underground parking garage, helped me out of his truck, and we walked hand in hand to the elevator.

“You have no reason to be nervous, but just say the word, and we’re gone.”

---