Page 86 of Defending the Post
I didn’t acknowledge her presence, but Malcolm and Pops greeted her with hugs. My vibrating phone stole my attention again.
Weirdo
I love you
Me
Love you too. About tonight.
Weirdo
You have a game coming up.
Me
I know that’s why I need sex.
Weirdo
I will not be responsible for you being tired.
I lifted my head to find her smiling as I pursed my lips to the side. She tapped out this morning on round two.
“Aye,” Caleb said as he entered the door.
He glanced over at Toni, and I shook my head. Dude didn’t catch the hint at Pops party, but it’s his wallet. The men migrated outside to the grill, leaving the women in the kitchen. Caleb couldn’t keep his eyes off the kitchen and Malcolm was watching his ass. I cackled at the shit because this was Toni’s goal—to keep up confusion.
“I’ve been auditioning some drivers for the team. Getting into the race car business was harder than I anticipated,” Pops said as he flipped over the meat.
“Kenny didn’t pan out?” Caleb asked Pops before he sipped his beer. As they talked business, my phone vibrated, and I pulled it from my pocket.
Weirdo
Fifteen minutes.
Standing in my parents’ backyard, I was uncomfortable and ready to leave.
“Marquise, a word,” Pops said, and we walked away from the grill.
Pops placed his hand on my shoulder. “Son, are you good? Your demeanor has changed and you’re anxious. Why is Malcolm giving Caleb the side-eye?” he asked.
“Toni is the reason Malcolm is giving Caleb the side-eye. He caught them talking at your party,” I said.
Pops turned to find Malcolm standing alone because Caleb had vanished.
“I tried to warn Caleb not to get involved. Toni isn’t worth the trouble. Erin and I are leaving in about ten minutes,” I confirmed.
Pop’s brows furrowed. “Wait, you gave me a lot to unpack. I don’t believe Toni is a bad person. I hate for you to leave, but I understand. Talk to your mother,” he said, and I shrugged.
“Yea, she didn’t leave you to get beat to death and try to destroy your family,” I said, and Pops sighed.
“Make time for Dr. June, Marquise,” he said, and I nodded.
Weirdo
We can leave. Jhae is going to take over.
Me
