Page 71 of Crossing Lines

All that reflects in her beautiful eyes is unmistakable yearning. “Why are you saying those things to me, Kross? Are you just trying to hit?”

“Shorty, stop that. I’m serious. I haven’t been interested in anyone else since we met. I’m into you bad, and I’ll do what it takes to show you.”

Instead of responding, she rests her head against my chest and continues swaying with me through another slow song by Ashia.

The talented singer fades out a minute later with melodious runs, receiving loud applause from the crowd. “All right. Let’s take it up.”

Davia eases back when the tempo switches to something upbeat. “I’m not in the mood for that type of dancing.”

“Let’s go for a drive then,” I say, holding her hand.

“But…” She looks up at the VIP and refocuses on me. “You want to leave your club?”

“Yeah, I could use some air. I’m sure you do, too.”

She takes a breath and nods in agreement. “Could we get strawberry shortcake?”

I smile. “Anything you want, baby.”

After the way our last phone call went, I didn’t think I’d be sitting in my car tonight with Davia, enjoying a vegan dessert while staring at the lit harbor.

Her slick ass forks off a piece of my cake despite having her own. “Shorty,” I playfully scold. “I got you a bigger slice.”

She giggles. “I’m trying to make mine last longer.”

“Geez.” I chuckle and continue eating.

Relishing another forkful, she moans while leaning back. I watch her, thinking how good it feels to hang out like this.

Her deep sigh makes me ask, “What’s up?”

“My mom’s pregnant,” she reveals in a murmur.

I almost choke on my dessert. “Congratulations?”

She wobbles her head. “I am happy for my mom. It’s just… This baby gets to have all of her. He or she won’t experience the hurt of being left behind like unwanted baggage at our grandparents. The way Mom dumped me on them to live her life child-free. It feels unfair. I’m jealous.” She takes a breath and looks at me. “Does that make me a bad person?”

“Not at all. Your feelings are valid.”

She sniffs. “Sorry for venting to you about my mom when you have your own problems.”

“I’m here whenever you want to talk. I’ll listen.”

“Thanks, Kross. Likewise.” I make out her smile before she returns to her dessert.

We finish up and continue staring at the harbor.

“How’s work?” I ask. “You started the production for your line?”

Her eyes glisten like stars. “Yes, and it’s so exciting. Once I finish the first looks, Chavonne will provide her final critique, and it’s off to the warehouse. The process is long, but having my designs available at the end of August is worth it.”

I bob while listening and absorbing everything. “You make it seem fun and fulfilling. Many people hate what they do, but you love your career.”

“I’m living my dream,” she gushes. “Not too many people can say that.”

“Mmhm.”

“What about you?” she asks, shifting on the seat to face me fully. “What’s your dream?”

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