Page 145 of Can't Get Enough

“I’m saying it. Are you hearing that you are a priority for me, Hendrix?”

A few seconds pass that vibrate with need, mine at least to be with her, hold her, assure her I’ll do everything in my power to help.

“Okay,” she replies. “I hear you.”

“Now what is this bullshit?”

“They want to shut down our grant program for Black businesswomen. They’re weaponizing the very laws that are supposed to be closing wealth gaps to make it harder for us. It’s disgusting.”

“And you know this is about more than just Aspire, right? If they can set precedent, they’ll use it in other areas and industries to dismantle equity efforts.”

“I know, which only makes us feel the pressure even more.”

“How are Nelly and Kashawn?”

“Pissed. We all are. Preparing to appear in court in two days, so I’m flying to Atlanta in a few hours. We’re petitioning to continue operations, still be able to award grants while the lawsuit moves forward.”

“Do you need a nurse to come for your mom and Aunt G? I can send someone.”

“Thank you, but no. Mrs. Redmond and some women from their church will come through while I’m gone. Aunt Geneva is a little more mobile now, so that helps. It’s only for a day or two. I’m coming right back, but I want to be in court with Nell and Shawn.”

“At least let me send my lawyer down.”

“We have a lawyer.”

“Guarantee mine is better,” I say. “Baby, this is important. It’s not just about you wanting me to help or not. This has implications for all of us. They’re targeting you guys because they think they can pick you off easily. I want them to know there is muscle and money behind you.” I squeeze the back of my neck, the need to be with her making my skin feel tight like it’s Saran-wrapped. “I want them to know that I’m behind you. Are you okay with that?”

“You mean…” She clears her throat. “You’re one of our investors. We can easily say you’re involved because of that.”

“We could, but I also don’t mind if everyone knows how personal this is for me. That I’mwithyou, Hendrix.”

It’s quiet and I can almost hear her independence weighing my words.

“Okay, Mav.”

I let out a breath, relieved that she’s not fighting me on this. “Can I have my lawyer reach out? See how she can help?

“Yeah. Nell and Shawn would kick my ass if I turned that offer down.” She chuckles.

“Good. Hendrix, I got you.”

“I know.”

“Do you?”

“I’m beginning to see, yes. Thank you.”

“No need to thank me. You’re my girl. Head up, Gorgeous. We’ll get through this.”

“I need to go. I have a lot of stuff to pull together and a flight to catch.”

“Of course. I…”

The words lodge at the base of my throat. I should tell her now, but how fucked up is that? She’s dealing with this court shit and focused on defending Aspire. I’ll tell her later. When I can hold her hand and look her in the eyes. I want her to see the love all over my face, not just hear the words for the first time from the other side of the world.

“You?” She prompts me to finish the sentence.

“I miss you, Hen. I wish I were there.”

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