Page 29 of Deacon

“Damn. Did you have to embarrass her like that?” Shadow asks, smirking.

“She’s lucky it’s all I said because with how I’m feeling, she ain’t capable of catching the strays I’m dying to fire,” I say.

“It's your fault because you know Sinful’s ass had thoughts of y’all becoming more than a hookup,” Shadow adds.

“You gossip like a bitch,” I say, smirking, while dodging Shadow’s fist coming toward me.

“Fuck you, Deacon,” Shadow says, frowning.

“I’m just saying, bro. The only woman I care about is the one waiting for me to get to the crib. I’m out,” I say, throwing up two fingers while heading toward the exit.

I’ve mistakenly fucked Sinful a few times, which is the cause for her pouty behavior. Our dealings ended before Squeak even hit the scene because Sinful started getting clingy. So I’m unsure why she’s in her feelings and speaking out of turn, especially since she’s been with several other club brothers.

Once inside my truck, I pull my phone from my pocket and send Squeak a message.

Me:

Get dressed. I’m taking you out to dinner.

My Forever:

Okay. See you soon.

Me:

Say less, Squeak.

“How are you feeling, love?”

“Grateful for an understanding boss. I’m going to work from home the rest of the week and all of next. My boss wants to make sure that I’m fully back to normal when I return to work.”

“Good, because I don’t want to worry about getting another phone call while at work. Hearing about you being in the hospital damn near stopped my heart, Squeak.”

Squeak lifts our joined hands and kisses mine, causing me to momentarily pause my attempt at parking into a spot.

“I’m sorry. I lost m?—”

“Don’t worry, Squeak. Not a single hair will be moved out of place. Your nigga is able to slay anyone who threatens to shift your peace.”

Seeing Squeak’s smile, I continue parking so we can enjoy each other’s company while sharing a meal. Exiting the vehicle, I quickly move to Squeak’s side to help her get out. Interlocking our hands, I head toward the restaurant as my stomach growls, reminding me of its empty state. I hadn't eaten today, with Squeak heavy on my mind and the emergency club meeting.

“It’s crazy that this is our first official date since becoming a couple,” Squeak says.

“Well, look, honey, it's our prodigal son.” Ma’s voice prevents me from responding to Squeak when my parents exit the restaurant.

“Hey, Son. Who’s this beauty?” Pop greets while shifting his focus to Squeak.

“Love, these are my parents, Deacon and Deaconess Redmond. This is your future daughter-in-law, Janelle,” I say, introducing everyone.

“This ain’t Sunday, and we’re not in Pursuing His Glory Ministries, Son. Please call me Paul, sweetheart,” Pop says, extending his hand toward Squeak.

“Thank you, Jesus. Thank you. Um, you can call me whatever you’re comfortable with, honey,” Ma says, pulling Squeak into her wide bosom without warning.

My eyes bounce from Pop to Ma, who’s still holding onto Squeak, whose arms hang at her side. My poor woman’s stiff body has me quickly intervening before Ma makes her any more uncomfortable.

“All right, Ma.”

Pulling Squeak out of Ma’s embrace, I look her over to see how she’s handling the quick exchange. The humor dancing in Squeak’s eyes causes me to relax since she doesn’t seem to mind what just happened.

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