Page 2 of Crossing Lines

“Welp!” I release a relaxed breath and tell her, “Chavonne agreed to a proposal that’s pretty much the start of a huge dream.”

Her brows go up. “What kind of proposal?”

“To launch a line in my name.”

“Yes!” She squeals while clapping for me. “Congrats, D. You should celebrate. Come to my friend’s new club on the main calledKrossfire, a play on his name. The first drink is free.”

“Sounds dope, but I have plans with Jamir.”

She shrugs. “Okay, well, congrats again.”

“Thanks, girl.” I tap a key to wake my computer out of sleep mode.

“Um,” Iree murmurs. “So I was wondering.”

“Yeah?” I press. “What’s up?”

“You think Chavonne will let me go to Paris with y’all? I heard everyone in the office has been. That’d be amazing.” She shifts while flicking her green nails.

“Oh, I could ask for you. It’s a week away, and there’s stuff that goes into preparing for the trip.”

Her sleek bob swings with the shake of her head. “You know what? Never mind. It’s too last minute. I doubt she’d invite me.” She walks off before I respond.

I remember my first months atLa Monteand how badly I wanted to travel to fashion week. It’s a great experience. Maybe I could help Iree achieve that goal.

“Ahhhhh!” Trishell can’t contain her screams after hearing the news. “Sis, I’ve been telling you to take the initiative! Look at that. Your first solo launch!”

“Thanks, cuz. I have butterflies thinking about it. I’m so excited for summer.”

“You should be.” She blows kisses through the phone. “I’m proud of you. Jamir better spoil you tonight.”

“I haven’t told him yet. Figured I will over dinner.”

“Cool.” She points to my attire. “Is that aLa Montedress?”

“It’s one of my favorites that I designed with Chavonne. Here’s a better view.” I place the phone on my dresser and back up to show her the long-sleeved midnight blue mini dress with sequins on the corset top and a wrap at the bottom.

“Bomboclaat, gal!”

“The hell?” Laughter spurts out of me. “Is that the only patois you picked up from your Jamaican boo?”

“It’s my favorite expression,” she says, chuckling. “But seriously. The dress is fire. That body isbodying!”

“Thank you,” I giggle. “You look great, too. We’ve been putting in work.”

“For real. My ass is a lot rounder.” She smacks her butt so loud that it cracks me up.

“You’re something else.”

Headlights blare in the window behind her. She glances back and says, “Reeve’s here. See you at Pilates, babes. I’m about to get slutted out.” She dances with the phone. “I’ll be hanging from the ceiling fan by the time he’s through with me.”

“All right, lil’ freak. Talk later.” Ending the FaceTime, I finish my look with a silver bracelet, matching rings, and cherry lipstick, glancing over myself in the mirror while fluffing my twist-out.

It’s past eight, and Jamir still isn’t here. He’s been late for our date nights the past few weeks.

Sighing, I call him on the way to the living area, leaning against the island.

“Hey, baby.” His distracted tone is a bit jarring.

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