Page 57 of Maceo

“Watch your mouth. What’s wrong?”

“I didn’t get her a corsage.”

I giggled as I reached into the back seat and pulled out a corsage that complemented Deja’s dress.

“I got you covered.”

“Good looking out, Shar. See, that’s why you’re my sister.”

“Boy, I’m your sister because we share the same parents.”

“Nah, if you were annoying and did too much, I wouldn’t claim you, for real.”

I smacked the back of his head. “Get out of the car, fool.”

He laughed as he opened his door, and I opened mine. We got out and made our way up the driveway to the front door. Just as I went to knock, Mr. Alec opened it.

“Hey, Sharina. Hey, Kilow. Looking good, man.”

“Thanks, Mr. P.”

“Y’all, come on in. Deja should be down in a second.”

We stepped inside, and I looked around for Maceo. His car was here, but he was nowhere to be found.

“Where’s Maceo?”

Mr. Alec chuckled. “Well… him and Devin decided they wanted to keep an eye on Deja and Kilow, so they volunteered to chaperone.”

I laughed. “Oooo, I know she’s mad.”

“She is. But she agreed with terms and conditions.”

“What conditions?”

“Devin has to drive them in one of his old-school cars.”

“You mean one of the cars he never drives?”

“Bingo. She also demanded they take them and their friends out to eat after the dance and pay her fifty dollars every time they embarrass her tonight.”

“Well, she won’t have to worry about paying for college, if that’s the case.”

He laughed. “Same thing I said.” He turned to Kilow. “I know this goes without saying, but you be mindful with my daughter.”

“Yes, sir. My father already had a talk with me, and I know Shar has no problem putting my head between the washer and dryer if I act up.”

I nodded. “I’m glad you know.”

Mr. Alec smiled. “You’re a good kid, and I trust you, so I know it won’t come to that.” He looked toward the stairs and called up for his wife. “Allison!”

“We’re coming, Alec, damn!”

He shook his head. “I wasn’t even rushing her,” he said, taking a seat on the couch. “Make yourselves comfortable.”

Kilow and I took a seat while we waited for Deja and Ms. Allison to come down. About five minutes passed before the door opened with Maceo and Smoke walking in. I stifled a whimper at the sight of my man looking so damn fine. He was dressed in a white dress shirt, black slacks, a copper-colored blazer, and a matching pair of loafers. His locs hung freely down his back, and gold jewelry accentuated his outfit.

From my spot on the couch, I could smell him, and it made my mouth water.

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