“I’m getting ready to head out of the door shortly. What about you?”
“Not yet, I decided to change my outfit at the last minute. You know my brothers and my father are going to be here and I don’t want them seeing my ass out.” I chuckled at her reply. Grabbing my jacket before turning off the room light.
“You’re a mess. Did you need something? I already packed some extra slides in my purse for when our heels give out on us.”
Girl, I didn’t want anything. My aunt called me saying Freedom was on her phone talking crazy, so I figured I’d call you to check on you.”
“I don’t know what his problem is. We got into a really bad argument and at this point I’m no longer interested in being cordial with him. I’ve been cutting him so much slack lately and it feels like I’m being taken for granted. He only wants to provide for Sincere’s when I’m doing what he wants. He was the main one telling me to move on, but now he’s singing a different tune. I’m honestly disgusted with the way he turned out as a father. I thought once he found out, he’d do the right thing, but he’s not ready.” I sighed, trying not to allow those ill feelings to linger in my mind. At the end of the day, Sincere didn’t need him. Still, it sucked that he was choosing to act this way, due to his own feelings.
“Bree, you are like a sister to me and you know this. I’m never going to throw your choices in your face because we all have made mistakes. It’s not your fault that Freedom is the way he is. He’s a grown ass man so he’s in control of his actions. You’re a wonderful mother and Sincere wants for nothing. Don’t waste your energy on anyone who isn’t adding value to your life. You’re back in school, my godson is happy and healthy. Not to mention the fact that you have a man who loves your dirty panties. Fuck Freedom. He may be family and I’ll always love him, but right is right.
Maybe one day he’ll grow up and realize how all of this affects his son. Until then, block that man and move on with your life. If he wants access to his son, he has plenty of avenues to go through. Between Aunt Faith, his brothers and all of us, we can make sure he sees his son. It’s time for you to water yourself. Don’t worry about how anyone is going to feel. Do whatever is best for you and do the shit, unapologetically. I’m gonna be riding for you no matter what; you don’t ever have to question that. Your happiness matters more than anything. Seeing you glowing and full of life is all I’ve ever wanted for you.” I dabbed my eyes before the tears could fall.
“I love you, bestie. More than I could ever really express. You’ve been here from the beginning, and I honestly wouldn’t have gotten through this without you in my corner.” Even though she never agreed with Freedom and I messing around she never judged me. She wiped my tears and even cussed him out behind me. Although I never wanted to come in between family, it felt good to know she had my back no matter what.
“We’re locked in for life. How many times do I have to tell you, girl? There’s not a nigga or a bitch who can come between our friendship. I love you, Boo. Now hurry and bring your ass on. We’re gonna be pulling up into the club in about fifteen minutes and I’m ready to drink and bounce this little bit of booty meat the Lord gave me.” I snickered. River and my cousin, Markeisha used to drag me to clubs all the time when we were seventeen. Til’ this day, I have no clue where she obtained those fake IDs.
“I’ll be there in about ten minutes. Ima text you as soon as we’re pulling in.”
“Okay, Boo. Be safe. I’ll see you soon.”
“I was just about to come in there and get your ass.” Onyx huffed. If there’s one thing he could not stand about me it was my tardiness. I am late to pretty much everything and he’s the complete opposite.
“Damn, it’s cold out here.” Onyx opened the door for me as the wind blew under my dress. We’d finally arrived at Law’s party and the weather decided to be on some bullshit. I brought a light jacket but didn’t go with my outfit. My so I wasn’t trying to wear it right now. Normally, I kept an extra jacket for the chill air after we left the club.
“Did I tell you how fine you are?” I stood on my tiptoes to kiss my man.
“Yes, about a thousand times already.” I loved this man so much, I couldn’t stop smiling so he held my hand.
“Damn, I’m slipping then,” He smirked. His plump pink lips were calling my name and I wanted to suck on them. The line for the club wrapped around the building. Thank God for connections because my feet were already tender with these heels on.
“Best friend!!!” River called out, running over to me with her stacked heels on. My girl must have lost her mind because there’s no way she thought this through.
“Ma’am, why in the world are you running in those shoes, are you crazy? We’re supposed to be turning up tonight, we don’t have time to be going to anyone’s emergency room, friend!” We hugged each other, before River pulled out her phone to take pictures.
“If I sprain my ankle, I’m wrapping it and turning up! It’ll still be sprained in the morning,” she shrugged, posing for another photo.
“You get on my nerves. Let’s get in here and see what’s going on. I’m praying your cousin doesn’t show up, but I know it’s probably wishful thinking,” I griped. Of course, I wouldn’t have an issue with him being here as long as he kept it respectful.
I knew how to be cordial, but after the conversation we had earlier, I knew to expect the worst. Onyx gripped my hand, reminding me of his presence. His levelheaded temper balanced me out perfectly at times. If nothing else, I knew he’d keep me in check if things escalated.
Once we walked into the club, the party was in full effect. There were banners with Law’s picture on them in various corners. The Graham men were too fine for words. River ushered us over to the section everyone else sat at and I made sure to greet everyone. Most of Freedom’s family gave a warm welcome and I appreciated it. Law gave me a hug and thanked me for coming.
“Damn girl. My cousin fumbled a real one. You’ve gotten even finer over time.” Law complimented. I used to have a small crush on him, before Freedom and I started messing around. When he got locked up, it devastated me.
“Thank you, LJ. I’m glad you’re back home where you belong.” Onyx stood behind me, observing the scene per usual. Whenever we were in large groups, I noticed he tended to stay quiet and enjoy the moment.
“Thank you for coming and celebrating. Feel free to get whatever you need, you know how we do.” Whenever I spent time with this family, I’ve never had to open my wallet. I still brought money with me just in case, but I’ve yet to use it. Onyx treated me the same way and at this point, I could get used to this type of treatment.
“Do you want something to drink?” Onyx inquired, we’d taken a seat next to River and her man Tez. My mind got distracted staring into Onyx’s eyes. I’d never experienced the kind of connection we have with anyone else. Just looking at him, brought a smile to my face.
“What? Why are you staring at me like that? Did I do something?” He quizzed.
“No, you look really good tonight." The tattoo of my lips on his neck caused a tingle down below. Onyx exuded sex appeal without trying and right now I wanted to take him into one of these bathrooms and show him just how much I appreciated him.
“You’d better stop. I can’t be held accountable for what happens if you keep giving me that look. I’m trying to be respectful,” He warned. I told myself to calm down because I didn’t want to draw any unnecessary attention to myself tonight and I knew I’d be walking funny, if I took him up on his offer.
“What are y’all over there whispering about? It looks like you’re over there being nasty, best friend,” River blurted out.