Page 41 of Sparks Will Fly

“Guess who,” I whispered in her ear deeply.

A chill ran down her spine from my touch.

“A man who didn’t return my phone calls earlier, so I’m mad at him.”

I chuckled then kissed her cheek. “I was busy, Lovie Dovie, but I promise I’m going to make it up to you.”

I placed the hand with the roses in front of her so when I dropped my other hand they were there. She squealed excitedly, taking them from me. I watched her bring them to her nose and inhale deeply before glee covered her face.

“Aww, these are so beautiful.”

I handed her the card and chocolates next. I felt pride swell in my chest because she didn’t even know this wasn’t the best of it. I would go to the ends of the earth for Lovie’s happiness. Seeing her smile meant that much to me.

“Not as beautiful as you. Follow me outside right quick. I have something to tell you.”

I took her hand and pulled her behind me. Shelia was still in the lobby with Damon. She handed me a manila envelope when I bypassed them. We went outside and far enough down the sidewalk that the front of the center could be seen.

“What’s going on?” Lovie finally asked when we stopped moving.

I exhaled all my nerves. Staring into her eyes made me so confident I even straightened my posture. Today, Lovie would really see I wasthatnigga—her nigga, and I was going to make shit happen.

“Since the first day I met you, I’ve done nothing but try to convince you that I was on your side. I hope this finally puts any lingering thoughts you have to rest. I support you in everything you do and want you to know I’m only here to make your life better. Congratulations.” I smiled widely.

She eyed me suspiciously. With a laugh, she smacked my chest.

“Congratulations? What are you talking about?”

I nodded to the envelope I was handing her. She took it skeptically and forced her way inside. I stood silently waiting as she read over the paperwork. Her mouth fell open before her arms dropped to her sides.

“Romani…”

“Yes, Trouble?” I smirked while staring lovingly into her big, brown eyes.

“Is this saying what I think it is?”

Her voice was low and shaky. I could already see the tears welling in her eyes. She was trying her best to hold it together, which I thought was just adorable. I cuffed her chin, allowing my hand to move to her cheek.

“It’s yours just like the world,” I confirmed.

I had no time to fully prepare myself when she attacked me. Her body wrapped around mine as she bawled her eyes out. Her tears healed another part of me. I hugged her back with both of my arms so that she knew I was here for real. This moment meant something special to me too.

“I can’t believe this,” she finally whispered.

“You will with time. I wouldn’t trust anyone else with these children’s wellbeing. You’ve found your purpose in life, and I just want to do my part in helping you fulfill it. God gave me the means. Now, it’s on you to do the work.”

She nodded and sniffled at the same time. She palmed my face seconds before her lips came crashing into mine. I savored the taste of her sugary lip gloss. Her body melted into mine, and I knew without a doubt I had her heart too.

When she finally had enough of me, I placed her on her feet. Spinning her around, I pinned her to the front of my body. She held onto my arm as we looked at her newly acquired real estate property.

“Aren’t you happy saving the center turned into catching feelings?” I teased, remembering something she’d said before.

Lovie laughed loudly. “I am. This is amazing. I never even thought it’d be possible. All anyone has ever seen me as is trouble. Now, I get to make a difference without worry.”

I kissed her cheek. “You are definitely trouble, but you’re the kind this world needs.”

She spun around and tossed her arms around my neck.

“Thank you for giving me another chance to fix us.”

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