Page 30 of Love You Like That

I took a deep breath, nodding slowly though they couldn’t see me. “Okay. I’ll call him tonight.”

“You better,” Dianna warned playfully. “Don’t make me pull up.”

“Love y'all,” I said softly, feeling a little lighter.

“Love you too,” they replied simultaneously before disconnecting.

I exhaled slowly, shoulders loosening slightly before making my way toward the grocery store on the corner. I needed something mindless, routine. Something familiar to distract me from the ache in my chest. Inside the store, I grabbed a small basket, wandering aimlessly toward the produce aisle. I was staring blankly at avocados when I felt a gentle tap on my shoulder.

“Yavanni?” a deep, familiar voice questioned.

I spun around, heart skipping slightly as recognition clicked into place. Standing in front of me tall with a charming smile lighting up his face, was Jaylen Pierce.

“Jaylen,” I gasped, genuinely surprised. “Wow. It’s been forever.”

Jaylen looked good. Really good. He still had the same boyish charm from high school, now sharpened by adulthood. A clean-cut beard, fitted navy suit, expensive cologne wafting subtly through the air. A far cry from the varsity jacket-wearing senior who took me to prom.

“You look amazing,” he said warmly, eyes twinkling. “Still beautiful.”

“Thank you,” I replied, blushing slightly. “You’re looking pretty great yourself. What brings you back to the city?”

“Interviews, actually,” he admitted with a chuckle. “Just flew back last week from Atlanta. I’m transitioning into a new role and thought I’d give home another chance.”

“Wow, that’s great. Congrats.”

He nodded, eyes curious. “And you? How’s life treating Miss Yavanni Sinclair?”

“Busy,” I laughed lightly, nerves fluttering. “Just graduated nursing school and I take my exam in a few days. And then, you know, interviews start. Honestly, I'm just trying to keep my sanity intact.”

“I feel you. Interviews, huh?” He raised an eyebrow. “Where at?”

“Hollis Medical, actually,” I admitted, smiling softly. “Pediatric nursing position.”

Jaylen’s eyes widened in pleasant surprise. “Wait, Hollis Medical? I have an interview there in a few days. Pediatric surgical department.”

“Are you serious?” My laugh came out lighter now, genuine. “What are the odds?”

“I don’t believe in odds,” he grinned smoothly. “Maybe the universe wants us back together.”

I rolled my eyes playfully. “Oh please. The universe probably just thinks I need another distraction right now.”

“Oh?” His smile faded slightly, eyes searching mine. “Something wrong?”

“Just… relationship drama,” I admitted quietly. “Or something like it.”

“Ah,” Jaylen nodded sympathetically. “Well, whoever he is, he’s gotta be crazy to let you slip away.”

My heart twisted, and I forced a small smile. “Thanks, Jay.”

He touched my shoulder gently, concern warm in his eyes. “Seriously, though. It’s good seeing you, Yaya. Maybe we can grab coffee soon, and catch up properly?”

I hesitated briefly, then nodded slowly. “Yeah, coffee sounds good. Text me.”

He smiled, pulling his phone from his pocket. “Still the same number?”

“Same number,” I confirmed softly.

We exchanged quick hugs, comfortable but lingering before Jaylen walked off. My heart felt strange, nostalgic, confused and a tiny bit guilty. But also strangely validated.

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