Page 17 of Honey's Special Roux

I pecked his lips several times before I wrapped my legs around his waist.

“Nah, baby. Don’t do that.”

“Why not?”

“I don’t want to take yo’ virginity on a dirty ass children’s slide. Don’t rush it because when it happens, it’s gon’ be something you never forget, okay?”

“Okay.”

I felt frustrated with myself. I’d been adamant about keeping my virginity sacred until I was at least out of high school, and yet here I was… ready to throw away my morals to feel him.

“Don’t trip about it. We gon’ be straight until you are actually ready.”

Buzz.

Buzz.

My phone vibrated in my pocket. Marquise stood up and helped me off the slide. I pulled my phone out and saw Granny’s name and picture on the screen. I answered.

“Hey, Granny Janie.”

“Don’t hey me, child. Where are you?”

“I’m at the park with a friend.”

“What happened to you cooking dinner with me tonight?”

I gasped. “Oh, my goodness! I forgot. I’m heading home now. Sorry.”

“I’ll just get started. We can reschedule.”

“No, please. Just give me a little time to get home.”

She sighed. “It’ll be too late to cook. I’ll take something else out for dinner tonight. Whip up some Philly cheese steaks instead. We can make the gumbo tomorrow night… if you have time for your granny.”

“Yes, ma’am. I’m sorry for losing track of time.”

“Don’t worry about it. I love you, Honey. Get home safely.”

“I will. Love you, Granny.”

“Love you too.”

The call ended. I hadn’t missed a cooking session with my granny but one time when I got in trouble at school and was on punishment. It was my favorite bonding activity with her. We chatted in the kitchen while she taught me a new recipe.

“You got to get back home?” he asked.

“Yeah. I got so carried away, I lost track of time. It’s almost time for dinner.”

“Understood. I’ll get you back to your side of town.”

He draped his arm around my shoulder and led me back to the car. He motioned to walk around the car, but I stopped him.

“I know it may not be a big deal, but my dad always opens the door for my mom. I’d like you to open the doors for me too.”

He contemplated my words for only a moment before he nodded. “I got you. I ain’t ever paid attention to shit like that before.”

“Yeah, it’s like one of the most basic forms of caring.”

---