Page 52 of Unexpected Pass

“That’s dope!” A nigga was genuinely thrilled for her. “When does it start?”

“Tomorrow. Oh my God! Thank you for taking me to New York and introducing me to Brittani.” She damn near jumped across the table to give me a hug. “None of this would be possible with you.”

“It was my pleasure, and don’t give me all the credit. You’re lethal with those clippers and your content speaks for itself.”

“Still, thank you.” She took her seat.

Her fucking smile was so big I was sure everyone on this heated patio could see it.

“Now, I just need to figure out how to get my ass to New York by morning.” She pulled out her phone. “Hopefully, there’s a red eye.”

A smirk crept across my face.Thank you, Brittani!I was trying to figure out a way to get Phileigh to come back New York with me. This was perfect.

“Good thing you got a new bestie with a private jet and a penthouse in New York, huh?”

Phileigh’s eyes widened in playful disbelief. “No. Absolutely not. I didn’t say that to impose. I’m sure there are flights available.”

I waved her crazy ass off. She couldn’t have possibly thought I was letting her get on a commercial flight when I was sitting right here.

“You’re not imposing. I’m your friend, and I’m offering.”

“Nope. I don’t need you or anybody else thinking I used you for your connections.”

“It’s okay to use connections! Half of the people in the world got where they are now by doing the same. It’s a free ride and a free place to stay while you make your dreams come true.”

She hesitated, her gaze flicking between me and her phone. The fact that she thought she had choice was funny.

“Kellon, I really don’t want you to think I’m friends with you because of your money or status.”

“I don’t think that. I know it’s because of this tongue.” I licked my lips, and she stared at me in disbelief.

“Kellon! Stop playing.” She slapped my hand. That beautiful red hue flashed on her cheeks again.

“Nah, for real, this opportunity could change your life. There’s an entire unused floor in my penthouse with everything you need. You ain’t even got to see me.”

She stared at me for a minute. I could tell she was contemplating what I’d just said.

“Let me do my part so all you have to worry about is looking pretty and moving those clippers.” I smiled, and I could see the moment when she gave in.

“Alright, if you insist.”

“Good. We can fly out tonight. Now, eat up so we can get you back to work before I get on Lolo’s bad side.”

“This isn’tthe same jet as last time, is it?” Phileigh asked as we stepped on board. I shot her a crooked smile, holding her hand to help her up.

“Nah, that one was Disney’s. This is my regular degular jet. Not as nice… I know.”

She laughed, brushing past me into the cabin. “Please. This is gorgeous. Smells like leather and um… generational wealth.”

“More like new money and loneliness.” I followed her in, watching her take it all in. “The Disney jet had a bed, though, and a snack bar. I ain’t got all that, disappointing… I know.”

She dropped into a plush seat and spread her arms dramatically. “Disappointment? Kellon, this seat cushion costs more than my rent. I’m just grateful for the ride and the escape from airport hell.”

I sat across from her, stretching out. “Anything for you, Phileigh Cheese. One introvert to another, we’ve gotta stick together.” I repeated the phrase that was easily becoming our inside joke.

Her eyes sparkled as she got comfortable. “Is there WiFi? I need to post something, or I’ll break my ‘one post a day’ streak.”

I pointed to the code taped near her head. “Right behind you.”

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