Page 9 of Seek & Destroy

“I don’t know. I kind of feel like you’re judging me before even knowing me—”

“Again, I do apologize, my love. That’s not who I am, and if you give me another chance, I promise I’ll make it right.”

I was silent for a moment. It was crazy how he called me on my bullshit and didn’t even know me. I guess my offense came from his truth, and like they always say, the truth hurts.

“Hello? Are you there?”

“Yes, I’m here...What time should I be ready?” I asked. I knew I shouldn’t add him to my roster, but I couldn’t let his fine ass get away.

“Seven, and wear something nice.”

“I’ll text you my address,” I told him.

“Perfect. See you soon.”

We disconnected the call as I sat with a smile on my face. Since Tania’s ass wanted to give out my phone number, I’d definitely be meeting up with him at her address.

I had to be honest, though. I was a little apprehensive about going out with him. He was…different. I could tell that much from our brief conversation. Something inside me was telling me that this was going to be a challenge that I had to make sure I came out victorious. I was going to make him pay for offending me.

Looking up, I saw my mom walking over to me, looking like a brown-skinned Barbie. I could tell from the look on her face that she was about to question me about something until her straight face turned into a smile. She sat next to me and crossed her legs then took a slow sip of her wine.

“You know…I’ve never been one to sugarcoat anything, right?”

“Of course.”

“Good. Now, with that being said, I think you’re putting a little too much on your plate.”

Damn, could she hear him on the phone or something?

“What do you mean?” I asked confused.

“Seven men, Esa? And from what I was trying not to hear when you were on the phone, there’s a potential eighth. Now, I’m not telling you how to do your shit, but baby, some men won’t stand for you being with other men. It’s okay to have two or three because it’ll be easier to cut them off if they step out of pocket, but seven? I can’t even imagine how you’re juggling these men.”

“I onlytalkand hang out with a few, so it’s not like that with us. The only ones who are serious about me are the ones you’ve met. You’re the one who told me to keep a couple on the side,” I said, smirking at her.

“A couple, not a village, Princess.”

“Everything’s good, Ma. Trust me.”

“Okay…because if you don’t slip…”

“They won’t fall.”

“And if you fall…”

“I’m doomed,” I finished. She winked at me and smiled as she stood.

“Oh, and wear that leopard number I bought you a few weeks ago. You’ll have him buying you a yacht next week,” she told me then walked away.

I shook my head as I went to play cards with my family and waited for the food to finish. Maybe Shania’s ass was right. Maybe I should cut off my loose ends—or maybe not. I needed them just in case my main courses wanted to act up. I would go out with Mr. Kwame, but I already knew from that phone call that he wasn’t going to make the team.

* * *

“Damn!You look good as hell, friend! You about to have that nigga licking yo’ damn toes tonight!” Tania yelled as I walked into her living room.

The leopard bandage dress my mom bought me for my birthday went well with the red open-toe pumps and clutch I was wearing. I opted to wear minimal jewelry—a diamond necklace, diamond ring, and a diamond bracelet. Tania’s behind was on glass number three of the D’Ussé, so her voice was extra loud. Judging by the Rihanna joint that was playing, she had a reason why she was getting turnt up this early, and I knew it was because of her no-good nigga, Primo.

Smiling, I winked at her. “That’s the plan.”

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