Page 57 of Breeze and Melodie

“I had to turn the music up to drown out your snores.”

“Until you give me proof, I’ll never believe I snore.”

“I’ll give you some proof, but I notice you didn’t deny that dried-up drool you just wiped from your mouth.”

He got out of his truck before I could respond, walking to the passenger side and opening the door. He leaned inside to kiss me before offering his hand to help me out.

“My dried-up drool didn’t stop you from kissing me.”

“Baby, I’ve had your dried-up pussy juice on these lips. I know you don’t think I’m scared of your drool.”

He kissed me again before we walked hand in hand to the front door. I had a key but still opted to ring the doorbell. Seconds later, I heard the locks, and my father opened the door. He smiled brightly when he saw me, and as soon as he opened the screen door, I released Breeze’s hand and fell into my father’s arms.

“Baby girl! What are you doing here?”

“I wanted to see y’all and surprise Mama for her birthday.”

“She’ll definitely be surprised. You’re about to make her day.”

He kissed my forehead before releasing me and exchanging greetings with Breeze.

“Go ahead, baby. Let me talk to your pops for a minute.”

I hesitantly went inside, forgetting about the two men in my life as soon as I saw my mother opening the refrigerator.

“Hey, pretty lady!”

She turned around, obviously surprised when she saw me. Her hand briefly went over her mouth before she opened her arms for a hug.

“Sweetheart, what are you doing here?”

“To celebrate your birthday.”

“You must’ve been reading my mind. I told your father last night I wanted to see you.”

“Surprise!”

We hugged again before she took my hands in hers and stepped back.

“Thank you, sweetheart. Let me look at you.”

“I look the same, Ma.”

“How have you been feeling? Are your ribs still sore? Does your nose still hurt?”

“No. I feel like it never happened.”

“Is he still bothering you?”

I shook my head as I responded. “No. I haven’t heard from him.”

“Good.” She stood silently for a minute, taking me in.

“Ma, why are you staring at me?”

“A crazy man attacked my baby, and I’m making sure you’re okay.”

“This isn’t the first time you’ve seen me since then. You’re being weird.”