Page 43 of Roulette: The Madam

“Understood.”

“Good, now get the fuck out of my face.”

“Yes, of course.”

She shuffled her feet, unsure of which way to go. I towered over her five-foot-four frame, watching as she twirled in a circle trying to find her way. When she finally snapped back into reality, she took off down the hallway, opposite of the direction I was headed in.

I made it to my office in seconds. At my desk, I made myself comfortable. I’d be here for at least another two hours sorting through the files I’d been collecting over the last two years, organizing them, and placing orders for furniture I’d already chosen to replace what we currently had. The contractors would be here bright and early tomorrow.

Game time.

Two hoursquickly turned into three. My stomach was touching the fabric at the back of my dress. I glanced at the clock, making note of the time.

8:24p

Thirty-four more minutes, I promised myself.

I deepened my search for the rose-colored fabric that would look splendid against the girl’s skin.

“Bingo!”

Vrrrr.

Vrrrr.

My cell vibrated against the desk. A quick glance revealed the identity of the callers. I swiped and was connected to the call with my sisters.

“Hi.”

“Hey.”

“What’s up, everyone?”

“Hey ladies.”

“You all look so pretty.”

Greetings were coming in one after the other as everyone joined the line.

“Hello, ladies,” I chimed in, eyes still glued to my screen.

“You look pretty,” Rome gushed.

“Thank you, baby.”

“Someone has plans?” Rather asked, “And haven’t planned a single date with me?”

“I’m tired of fighting for an hour of your busy schedule. Between Priest and that damn kid, I can’t win.”

“That damn kid? Roulette, you know his name.”

“So. He’s taking up all of your time.”

“Well, I am his mother, Roulette. What do you expect me to do?”

“You just met that nigga. You’ve been knowing me all your life. I am the priority.”

“Although this might sound like fingernails on a chalkboard for you, Roulette, you’re not the priority in my life. I have a husband and a child. When you–”

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