Page 50 of Stolen Moments with a Bad Boy

Ro leaned over, and I sucked his full lips into my mouth. I trapped his face between my hands, and we kissed sloppily like we always did.

“That’s the reason y'all in the situation y’all in now,” Raquel stated.

I knew her seductive voice from anywhere. Ro and I pulled apart to see Dawn and Raquel standing before us. I smiled and wiped my gloss from his lips. Ro looked at me and smirked.

“When did this happen?” I probed, looking at the two of them.

“This . . .” Dawn pointed between them, “. . . is still pending. We’re just getting to know each other for now,” Dawn replied.

Raquel wrapped her arms around Dawn’s waist and placed her chin on her shoulder. “What she said. For now,” Raquel affirmed.

I clapped happily and snapped my fingers. “Yass, that’s what I’m talking about.”

“Thank you, Erie boo. But you’re all talk,” Dawn tossed at Raquel.

“You’ll see. We’re going to get food. See y’all in a bit,” Raquel fired back. They walked off hand-in-hand.

My gaze moved around the room. There were so many gifts that couldn’t fit on the table anymore, so they surrounded the table on the floor. People came over and talked to us for a bit. After a while, I grew tired, and I was stuffed. My cooks recreatedmy Gigi’s recipe with ease. Tonight was superb, but I focused on my lover. He wasn’t a social butterfly like me.

“Ro, are you comfortable with all of these people here?” I pried.

He had acclimated to being a loner for years. I wanted to make sure he didn’t ever experience being alone again. His past caused him to stay away from crowds. It also could have been because of what he did for a living.

“I’m okay, love. You know how I feel about crowds, but I’m toughing it out for you, Bella.”

“Thank you.” I kissed his cheek sweetly.

More food, sweets, and drinks were served, then Londen announced it was gift opening time. I opened at least ten gifts. I could no longer proceed through the party. The walking and shopping today tired me out. I felt my feet and ankles swell in my boots.

“I’m sorry, y’all. There’s no way I can get through all these gifts at the moment, but I’m so grateful for all the thoughtful gifts. My feet and ankles need to be elevated.”

As soon as those words left my mouth, Ro hopped up and helped me to my feet.

“Londen and Aunt Bianca, can you all take care of everything while I get Erie situated?” he quizzed politely.

They both agreed. My dad rushed over from his seat.

“Is everything okay?” he queried, worried.

“I’m fine, Daddy. I just need to relax some and elevate my feet. Please thank everyone for me. I’m sorry I can’t.”

“No need to apologize, Sweet Pea. We all understand, and for those that don’t, fuck ’em. Simple as that.”

My dad was with the shits at all times. Even in a professional capacity, he spoke his mind freely.

“Before you retire for the evening, I want you to have this.” He placed a black journal in my hands.

“What's this, Daddy?”

“It’s your brother’s journal. I’ve been cleaning out his apartment, and I stumbled upon it. I’ve read a few entries. I think you should too. You don’t have to now, but one day, you should. You might get some much-needed answers.” He kissed my forehead.

“I appreciate it, Daddy. Good night.”

“Get some rest, Sweet Pea.” He went back to his seat.

I turned to Londen and Aunt Bianca.

“Thanks again, ladies. Tonight was so special and beautiful.”

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