Page 58 of Jaeda

“Whatchu’ want, man? And how did you get my number?”

“Don’t worry about all that. Whatchu’ doing tonight?”

“Why?”

“We’re gonna be chillin’ at one of Deuce’s spots in the city. You should come through.”

I pulled the phone from my ear and looked at it to make sure I heard him correctly.

“You said what?”

“You heard me. Pull up. Have a few drinks. Smoke a lil bit. Just vibe with us.”

“Why the fuck would I do that?”

He chuckled. “Bullshit aside, I promised my sister we’d give you a chance since she seems to like your square ass.”

“Your brothers know you spoke for them?”

“They know. They don’t like the shit, but they’re with it.”

“And you expect me to show up by myself to hang with a bunch of niggas that don’t like me?”

“If you pussy, just say that.”

It was my turn to chuckle. I wanted to tell him the only thing pussy about me was my breath after eating his sister’s. I’d pick my battles, though.

“I’ll play your game.”

“Bet. We’ll be at Silk around nine.”

“I got you.”

“Aye. Don’t be late.”

“Get the fuck off my line.”

He laughed in my ear as I disconnected the call. I shook my head. It was against my better judgment to go anywhere with those unstable ass Dillingers, but I was gonna go so they could once again see that they pumped no fear in my heart. Going to her contact, I gave Jaeda a call. She answered on the second ring.

“Hey, baby,” she said sweetly.

That shit made me smile.

“Hey, love. I miss you.”

“I miss you too.”

“Baby, . . . why is your brother asking me to go out with them tonight?”

She giggled. “Steel promised me they would try to give you a real chance. I didn’t expect him to follow through. Are you gonna go?”

“I’m going ’cause I’m not afraid of them, but I can’t promise hands won’t be thrown.”

“Don’t worry. I made sure they behave themselves, . . . well, at least, Smoke, Deuce, and Maceo.”

“How?”

“My sisters. If they touch you, there will be consequences. Just a little extra insurance for you tonight.”

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