Page 48 of Hooked on Loving Him

“I’m good. Now stop crying, Shari. You also need to answer… second or fourth-degree scalding for this water? It’s only in the Alaskan neighborhood right now because you’re crying and shit.”

Pulling my head from Kayshon’s chest, I look into his eyes as a small smile upturns my lips. “Somewhere between the two should work.”

“Say less.” Kissing my lips, he releases his hold on my body and returns to the knobs to adjust the water.

Several weeks later…

“Wait, that man didn’t treat you like you had the flu or diarrhea by putting on a mask and gloves before touching you?” Jordan asks as Mycah and I laugh at the deer in headlight expression.

“Oh, I can imagine that because he has a brother, that gives me a reason to find out how well stalking can work in my favor,” Mycah interjects.

“He didn’t flinch. He had my ass ready to fuck him despite the constant blood oozing from my pussy.”

“Now, wait a minute, friend. I draw the line at fucking while bleeding,” Jordan says, frowning.

“Hm. Don’t knock it until you try it because I have found out that it eases cramps better than Midol,” Mycah adds.

Staring at Mycah, I don’t respond because my mind swirls while I wonder if there’s any truth in her statement.

“So, your freaky ass is fucking on your period?” Jordan asks loudly, causing the other patrons in the restaurant to look in our direction.

My mouth twists as my hands rest on my cheek while my gaze bounces back and forth between Jordan and Mycah. This is why I enjoy spending time with my girls; sisterhood is sometimes created and not born into. While I love Amari, wedon’t always see eye to eye, and I would rather be with my girls. My parents have spoiled Amari’s ass, so I often don’t feel like dealing with the aftermath.

“Several times,” Mycah says with her chest out.

“Well damn. Just when you think you know a person. Who are these ninjas you’re letting break you off while Mother Nature plays hopscotch in your cooch?” Jordan asks, causing Mycah and me to laugh again and draw attention to our table.

“A girl never kisses and tells,” Mycah says, zipping her lips.

“Oh, bestie, we’re way past modesty at this point,” I say, entering the conversation.

“Tell her, friend. Like, how are you picking and choosing the level of ho-dom you can share. Be for real, Mycah,” Jordan says, shaking her head.

“Good afternoon, ladies,” a familiar voice greets, halting the conversation. Jordan and Mycah look like they’ve seen a ghost.

“Hey, Papa Ren,” I say, smiling.

“P-Pastor Reese,” Jordan stutters.

“God is amazing, Pastor,” Mycah adds.

Papa Ren smiles as merriment dances in his orbs, making me wonder if he’s overheard our conversation.

“Yes, he is, sweetie,” Evangelist Tolliver says, causing me to shift to the right, taking note of the other ministers withinPursuing His Glory Ministries.

Well, isn’t this awkward?

“Hello, Ms. Ashari. When are you bringing these lovely ladies to church with you?” Minister Davenport asks as Jordan sits back in her chair like she’s trying to become one with the seat.

“I’m not sure,” I answer, staring at Papa Ren, whose assessing eyes are still on me, making me feel like I’m under a microscope.

The intensity of Papa Ren’s gaze causes me to squirm and pull my eyes away from him so I can focus on something other than what he might be thinking.

Now, God, please. I’m still trying to maneuver through my relationship with Kayshon. I can’t handle another download of information from you. Please… have mercy on me.

“Ladies, we’re gonna be on our way, but enjoy the rest of your day,” Papa Ren says, causing me to exhale prematurely. “Before we go, I want you all to know and understand that there is never a reason for any of you to run from the things God has said. His will for your lives will come to pass regardless of how fast you run.” With that, Papa Ren walks away and his entourage follow behind him further into the restaurant.

*bzz, bzz*

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