by Anna Black
“Cut this shit out Rel,” I told myself. “We have plenty of time to fall in love and now ain’t the damn time,” I continued to talk to myself and went to clean my kitchen. I finished out the rest of my day with no text from Chasity, and I hated that I was actually hoping she’d text me. I rarely texted first, but I said fuck it and grabbed my cell from the sofa cushion.
Me: Hey
I typed and hit send. I didn’t want to send a long ass message before I knew what she was up too.
Fyah: Hey, you, wat’s up?
Me: Shit, jus around the house chillin’
Fyah: I’m still at work
Me: Word! Where u work & wat the fuck do u do?
Fyah: At Sassy Styles, I do hair
Me: Fo’real, dat’s cool
Fyah: Yeah, I luv what I do, but wat is up wit the ?’s I thought this was a hookup type of situation???
I stared at my phone for a minute or two. She was right, so I replied.
Me: Dat’s y I was hittin’ u up. My dick asked me 2 hit u up but I c u handling business, so do yo’ thang.
Fyah: Can yo’ dick give me a couple of hours? I’m about to wrap up here. I can run home, shower & chg & b there by 10
Me: Sounds like a plan. What would u like 2 drink?
I typed and then deleted it. Hell, this was sex, but then I wanted to be a good host, so I re-typed it and then hit send.
Fyah: REMY would b nice
Me: Cool, do I need 2 grab u some grub?
Fyah: Nah, I’m good but thanks
Me: Cool! If anything changes jus let me know
Fyah: Will do
I looked at the time, and it was ten after seven. I went over to my liquor cabinet, and I was out of fucking Remy. “Damn,” I said and ran up to throw on some clothes. As I dressed, I kept shaking my damn head because if this were any other ho’, I would have never asked for one. And two, if I were out of it, I’d never be heading to the store for shit.
When I got in my car, I called my brother.
“What’s up?” Gutta answered.
“You, man. You and Gabby done made up, and I ain’t heard a word from your ass.”
“Because we are still making up, man. What do you need so I can get back to my baby?”
“Damn, man, shit be like that when you in love?”
“I don’t know what it’s like for others, all I know is I can’t get enough of her. So, what do yo’ ass need?”
“I needed to talk, but gon’ wit yo’ woman, we can talk later.”
“Look, I’m going over to Passion’s about eleven. Why don’t you come through there?”
“Is Gabby gon’ be wit’cha?”
“Of course.”
“Well, I’ll definitely holla at yo’ ass lata.”
“At least tell me what’s on yo’ mind?” Gutta quizzed.
“I’m good, I’ll holla,” I said and then ended the call. I then called Malice, but he was working, and Royal was the baby, so he and I didn’t really vibe like Gutta and I. Calling Royal was a stretch, but I needed to let one of them tell me that the feelings I was starting to feel were only because the pussy was so fucking good. Yes, that’s what it was, so I’d beat that shit up and then say goodnight and no fucking sleepovers tonight. Yep, that was the plan, so all was good.
7
Chas
I tried to focus at work, but the only thing on my mind was fuckin, Rel. I tried to wish it away, pray it away, but he just kept coming to my mind and making my stomach quicken. I picked up my phone so many times, hoping he’d feel my energy and text me, but the hours kept rolling by with nothing from him. I wasn’t surprised because it wasn’t like we texted every day, but the energy was different now that I was discovering that I liked him.
“Fuck!” I mumbled. How was I going to put a lid on that shit, I wondered.
And as soon as I put my last client under the dryer and flopped down in my chair, my phone alerted me that I had a text. When I looked at my notifications and saw the Magic. I quickly swiped to unlock my shit. It usually would be a direct message like Come through, Come get this dick, I need yo’ wetness, or I need them big ol’ titties in my face. But HEY was a first, so I replied. When he asked where I worked and what did I do, I found it strange, but I answered honestly. Those questions weren’t too private. When he invited me over again, I didn’t hesitate to tell him yes because I wanted to see him. When he asked me about what I wanted to drink, I smiled because maybe I was on his mind too, but I wasn’t good at guessing. After I was done texting, I called Gabby.
“Hey boo,” she answered softly.
“You busy?”
“I am. Gutta and I are still making up. And girl, my pussy is throbbing, you hear me? I’m in the tub soaking.”
“Damn, he is opening that thang wide, ain’t he?”
“Girl, yaaasssssss, he is. And as soon as I get some alone time, I have to bring you up to speed on the bullshit that has transpired my way.”
“Bullshit, what bullshit? I thought you and Gutta were good.”
“Girl, we are, but Mario’s fool ass came by here, and fucking Trina sent Gutta pictures of me hugging Mario on my damn porch.”
“Hold the fuck on and rewind, bitch,” I said, putting in my earpiece. “I’m confused like a ma’fucka.”
“Listen, I can’t say too much now, but Mario’s big mouth ass momma told him where I live. He came by to make amends because he’s getting deployed again. Bitch ass Trina was stalking outside my damn house and took pictures of Ro’ hugging me goodbye. He kissed my forehead innocently, and that bitch sent those pictures to Gutta.”
“The fuck! How she know where you live first of all?”
“I don’t know, Chas. She had to follow him, us, or me. Hell, I don’t know.”
“That bitch gon’ get fucked up playing and shit.”
“For real. Gutta is all chill and shit like he ain’t expecting shit to get outta hand and you know me and drama with bitches. I cannot have a repeat of me and them ho’s Ro used to fuck with. I can’t go through that bullshit again with no other bitches.”
“No worries, Gab, your bestie is on it. When I see Rel again, I’m gonna see if he knows where the bitch lives. I ain’t got shit to lose, and I’ll catch a case. Hell, Chris done took every good thing I’ve ever had, so I’d do a bid for you,” I said. I was hyped, pissed, and ready to beat a dumb ass bitch like Trina down. Gabby had to deal with crazy ass women way down in Texas all by herself, but she was home now, and I had my girl’s back.
“Calm down, killer,” she teased. “I hope that’s the end of it. I hope that bitch gets some sense and back the hell up.”
“And if she doesn’t?”
“We just might be in orange jumpsuits because I’m not letting another bitch fuck with me. Karen found that shit out before I left Texas. Trina will soon see if she fucks with me.”
“I know that it is real and really quick. I called you about Rel.”
“What about, Rel?” she quizzed.
“Gabby, that man is tappin’ on my insides, girl. It’s been strictly about the dick, you know my motto, but the last couple of times I was with him, shit just, just, shit!” I said. I didn’t want to just outright say I liked him, but Gabby and Tori were my girls, and I usually didn’t keep shit from them.
“So, what are you saying?”
“I don’t know,” I said.
“Listen, Chas, that thing with Chris is so two years ago. I know you lost everything you worked so hard for. And how he treated you, no woman deserves that, but all men are not like that evil bitch. So, if you like Rel, just let it happen. Give him a fair chance to show you that men are different.”
I sighed. “I don’t know, Gabby. I mean, I’m over the shit with Chris, way over it, but I am still trying to recoup from the damage hurricane Chris caused. I lost everything, and I’ve been trying so hard, but still, I’m still not anywhere near restoring the things I lost fucking with his crazy ass.”
“How is it you can giv
e such great advice but can’t take it? You’ve advised me to move on, start over, meet someone, and give love another chance. You were quick to believe that Gutta and I had a chance to save our relationship. When Tori and Ethan separated, you kept telling her that all was not lost, to forgive and so on, but you have just put up a wall and basically transformed into a ho’. I can’t understand it, Chas.”
“Okay, maybe I’m a little ho’ish, but I’m not a ho,’ Gabby. And Chris was a monster; an evil fucking monster. It has taken a long time for me to heal from the things he has done to me, and now physically, I’m better, but I still have shit to do to get myself together. I have nothing to offer a man but good pussy. I’m more than that.”
“And the right man ain’t going to need you for anything more than yo tasty pussy,” she joked and laughed a little. “All I’m saying is, Rel isn’t broke, they do good, and he doesn’t need yo’ money. While you work on building yourself back up, you can also build a relationship. You are smart, Chas, talented as ever, and you aren’t bad with business or finances. You are working on your shit, and all of that other stuff will fall in place. Don’t keep your heart on the shelf anymore. Just give it a go and take one step at a time.”
I nodded and then my client walked over to my station. “The dryer stopped,” she said.
“Look Gab, thanks for everything. I gotta finish my last client. I’ll buzz you tomorrow.”
“Okay and have fun with Rel tonight.”
“And how do you know I’m seeing him tonight?”
“I didn’t, now enjoy,” she said, and then I ended the call. I got back to work, and after my last client was done, I cleaned my station. It was already after eight, so I texted, Rel.
Me: Can I push it back to 11
Magic: That’s cool
Me: A’ight c u soon
I left the shop then went home to shower and change. When I walked into my one-bedroom matchbox of a place, I looked around and shook my head. It wasn’t raggedy or horrible, but it was a downgrade from the home I used to own in Matteson with my ex, Chris. That man made me cringe every time I thought of him. I wished him dead so many times, but I guess God didn’t answer evil prayers like that one because he was still alive and well according to associates that knew him. I hurried to shower and then I debated if I should pack an overnight bag. The next morning was a Saturday, and I did have to work, so it would be easier to leave from Rel’s than to come home to get ready. After some debate, I packed a little bag and decided I’d leave the bag in my trunk because I didn’t want him to think that I came with the intentions of spending another night.
Once I was looking and smelling good, I tossed my bag into my trunk. I texted to let him know I was on my way and when he replied, cool, I pulled out of my parking stall. When I got there, he greeted me with a kiss at the door and took my coat.
“Damn Chas, red must be your favorite color,” he said. I had on a red sweater, a pair of dark blue jeans and red leather boots.
“It is. You’re just now figuring that out?” I smiled.
“Nah, I noticed that the first night I saw you, and every time after that, you have to have a splash of red in your outfit.”
“Guilty,” I said and followed him into the living area. His place was like most new builds, open and it was beautiful.
“Have a seat, and I’ll get you a drink,” he said.
“Thank you,” I said and took a seat on his plush sofa.
“I can get you some socks if you’d like to take off your boots,” he offered.
“That sounds great,” I returned. I scooted to the edge, unzipped my boots, and removed them. I had on footies, but a warm pair of socks would have been better. He handed me a drink, and a few moments later, he returned with my socks. I slipped them on, and after he made himself something to drink, he sat next to me. “I meant to compliment you on your place, it is stunning.”
“Thank you. Some blood and sweat went into it, but that’s what I do, so it was nothing. My crew and I had it done in less than four months.”
“Well, y’all are one helluva crew because this place is impressive.”
“Again, thank you,” he said, then we both sat quietly and sipped.
“Can you play some music or something? I mean, I’m used to walking in and going straight up to your bedroom.”
“Is that what you want to do, go straight up to my bed?” he asked.
I turned to look at him, and everything inside of me went to mush. It was official. I liked him. I mean, I really liked him. I’ll take Gabby’s advice and just let it happen. “No, I want to sit here and enjoy you and some music,” I smiled.
“What’s your flavor?”
“I like Rahsaan Patterson,” I said.
“Alexa, play Rahsaan Patterson,” he said. Alexa confirmed his request, and the speakers in the ceiling began to play.
“Nice,” I blushed and took a sip of my drink.
“Listen, Chas, I know we made all of these rules and set up our thing as physical. To be honest, I was on board with that the night we hooked up, but now I’m kinda feeling you. And I’d like it if we spend a little time together outside of the bedroom,” he said.
I tried to hold in my smile, but what he said was music to my damn ears. “I agree, and I was so scared to tell you that I was feeling the same way because I didn’t want to come off all girly and shit, but I’m feeling you too, Rel. And I’d like to see you outside of the bedroom.”
He exhaled and caressed my face. “You are so beautiful, Chas. Even though your pussy is so fucking good, it’s something about you that makes me want to get to know you.”
I put my glass down. “Listen, I must be honest, I’m damaged goods, Rel. I was married once, and my ex-husband,” I paused. “Let me just say my ex-husband was a horrible man.”
He smiled and caressed my cheek again. “Well, lucky for you, I am a master in restoration. I am an expert at repairing, fixing, and making things over. I don’t know where we’ll end up or how far we will go, but I wanna try something different with you,” he said.
I opened my mouth, but not a word came out. My heart raced, my palms got sweaty, and I was willing to dive into the deep end with his fine ass. “So, what are we doing?”
“I don’t believe in labels, Chas. I just know I want to do you and only you, and I don’t want you doing anyone else. I want to hold you after we fuck and have dinner, drinks, movies on the couch, just the shit people do when they like each other,” he said and hunched his shoulders.
I smiled again. “I wanna do that with you too.”
“So that settles it, you’re officially all mine, right?” he said.
“If that’s what you want, I’m game.”
“Good, now finish your drink so we can consummate this thing we got going on.”
I threw my drink back. “First, I’d love too, but I need to pee. Where is the bathroom?” I asked.
“By the stairs,” he said with a point.
“And I want a refill,” I said and stood. “And grab my keys from my purse please and get that bag out of my trunk,” I said and tried to hurry to the bathroom.
“You got an overnight bag in yo’ trunk?”
“Yep,” is said as I proceeded to the bathroom.
“Always or did you just pack it tonight?”
I paused. “If I wasn’t feeling you, I’d lie and say always, but truthfully, I packed it tonight. Since you allowed me to stay last night, I thought maybe I might end up staying over again tonight. Plus, I have to work in the morning, so I packed it just in case,” I said. At that point, I was doing my peepee dance.
“Go to the bathroom, and I’ll get the bag,” he said.
I hurried off to the bathroom, and when I came out, he walked back in with my bag in hand. He put it close to the steps and handed me my keys.
“You can just drop those back into my purse,” I said. He tossed them, then took my empty glass into the kitchen and poured me a refill.
We stayed on the s
ofa, talked, and had a few more drinks. I asked him so many questions to keep the focus off of me as we got acquainted. I told him the light shit about my parents and sister and how Gabby, Tori, and I became best buds. I told him everything but the horrible details of my marriage. I knew if we became close, one day I’d eventually have to tell him, but that night I declined and let him fuck me until my pussy was bone dry. It was four in the morning before I had finally fallen to sleep, and my phone woke me by eight. Rel got up, made me a breakfast sandwich, and walked me to the door. After a long kiss, I left his house feeling brand new.
8
Gabby
My birthday was coming up in a couple of days, and my girls and I were out shopping for me a dress. I had tried on four dresses. I felt like I was on an episode of Say Yes To The Dress because Grace, Gemma, Chas, and Tori were there judging every dress that I tried on. My birthday was December 31st, and since Chas had spilled the beans about Gutta’s proposal, my dress had to be amazing. I thought the one I had on was it and walked out to let the girls see. I was smiling so brightly because I thought the champagne color looked good on my skin. It had more sparkle than I cared for, but it was a gorgeous dress.
“Nope,” Chas said first.
“Really, Chas, you haven’t even given this dress a chance.”
“I’m with Chas,” Grace said.
“It’s pretty, but not sexy enough,” Gemma added.
“Yeah, that is not it's my damn birthday, New Year’s Eve, I’m getting engaged type of gown, Gabby. I mean, you need something sexier. Something to show off your curves,” Tori added.
“Lord, I knew I should have shopped alone. Everything is no with y’all,” I griped.
“Just try on the black one,” Grace suggested.
“I didn’t want to do black. Everyone will be wearing black,” I refuted.
“That may be true, but we wear black differently, boo. Now go try on the black as we all said in the very beginning,” Tori barked.
