Page 34 of He Saved Me

“So, what’s the deal with you and Papi Chulo? You going to let him fuck you tonight?” Tiny wiggles her eyebrows.

“What the hell? No. There’s nothing going on between us.” I shake my head. I walk to my desk and shuffle the playlist until it lands on “Del Mar” by Ozuna, Doja Cat, and Sia.

“Yeah, right.” Tiny scoffs. “What else could it mean when you’re wearinghisnumber?”

“It’s called supporting your best friend.” I try defending myself, but it’s no use. Tiny’s got me cornered and she knows it.

“Girl, please. Get out of here with that shit.” Telle waved her hand in the air.

“If you aint’ gonna take him for a ride, then…” An uneasy feeling turns in my stomach at Telle’s words.

“See! I told you so!” Tiny jumps on her feet, clapping her hands as if she just won the lottery.

“You just love that phrase, don’t you, Tiny?” Tia laughs at her reaction.

“Well, I was right, wasn’t I?” Tiny looks around the room at us with wide eyes and a triumphant smile.

“Don’t say it,” I warn Tia as she bounces Sophie on her knee.

“I didn’t say anything,” Tia says in a mischievous tone.

“I don’t care. Your face says it all.” I know exactly what she’s thinking which is why she’s laughing at me.

“I’m trying to have a serious conversation with you, Sade.” Tiny tries to sound serious, but her smile gives her away.

“Yeah, well, I’m trying to avoid it.” I flash her an amused smirk.

* * *

The girls hang out for another hour before the game. Once they leave, I take one more glance of approval in the mirror, grab my hoodie and leave the room.

On my way to the living room, I peek into Abuela’s room to see her sleeping soundly. She hasn’t been feeling good the last few days. I shut

her door quietly and walk down the hall toward the living room. Sophia sits on Tia’s lap as they watch The Hunger Games movie.

“Really, Tia? Do you think it’s appropriate for my daughter to watch a movie about kids killing kids?”

“What? She’s like less than a year old. She doesn’t know what the hell is going on.”

I roll my eyes and kiss my baby girl goodnight. “I won’t be home late.”

“Don’t worry about us. Just have fun.” She winks at me.

“All right. Text me if you need anything.” I grab my keys and put on my shoes.

“I will. Love you.”

I blow a kiss and walk out the front door.

Chapter 19- Donovan

Iglance down at my phone, wondering why Shorty hasn’t called me. She should be here by now.

I shoot her a text.

Me: Hey. Are you ok?

I wait for the bubbles to appear that indicate she’s responding, but nothing happens.

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