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“I see you, bestie,” Tracy says, nudging my arm when Kaeden returns to the team bench.

Smirking, I’m unable to respond, as I feel like the luckiest woman in the stadium knowing that Kaeden made a play just for me.

A Few Weeks Later. . .

I thought I enjoyed experiencing the feeling of having Mica in the stands during a game. But seeing the light, joy, and glow in Kyelle’s eyes during various plays of the opening game had me walking with an extra swag during the post-game celebration and several days afterward. Kyelle appeared to be in tune with what was happening around her and razor-focused on my moves. Having a woman in my corner with the ability to ground me with her mere presence is something I didn’t set out for but something I’m appreciative of with every passing day.

Thanks to Coach Sumlin’s emergency, practice for today was canceled, and I couldn’t be happier. While the other coaches are capable of conducting practice, none of them did so. I’m at homewith Mica, awaiting Kyelle’s arrival. This is Kyelle’s first time coming to my house, and my damn stomach is doing backflips. It’s crazy to have such a reaction to something so simple after I’ve spent time at Kyelle’s place. Unlike me, Mica has been bouncing off the walls excitedly knowing that Kyelle is coming to hang out with us. Instead of me setting the tone for today’s visit, Mica has planned the day, and I’m just hoping Kyelle is cool with it.

“Why is your big ass sitting there staring at the wall?” Jaleel’s voice cuts into my thoughts, causing me to shift my gaze to him.

“Why are you still here? I thought you would break your ankle leaving once you found out I would be here all day.”

“Oh, don’t worry. I’m going as soon as your lady love arrives. I need to see if you blush like a nigga with his first hard-on.”

Staring blankly at my knucklehead brother, I refuse to comment on his statement because, truthfully, I have been working to keep my dick in check ever since Kyelle agreed to come hang out. Knowing that she’s a business owner, I didn’t expect her to be free, but Kyelle had no issues allowing her friend to run the store upon my suggestion.

“No comment, huh? You ain’t got to dignify my statement with a response because I already know what it is. Ma would be planning your wedding if she heard you begging like the R&B singer she loved so much. The record number of times you begged should be studied. Are you sure you’re in a relationship with her?”

Jaleel might be exaggerating, but he isn’t completely lying because I did ask Kyelle twice if she would come over. Kyelle felt today should have been a daddy/daughter day since she’s been occupying my time lately. However, I want the opportunity to spend time with both of my girls, and with the way Mica screamed after learning of Kyelle coming, I’m glad I pushed.

“Get your hating ass out of here. I’m sure one of your throwbacks is waiting for you.”

Laughter escapes Jaleel’s mouth as he flicks me off just as the doorbell sounds through the house.

“Let me be hospitable,” Jaleel says, causing me to jump up from the couch, chasing behind him to reach the front door.

“Move your ass out of the way. She ain’t here for you.” I shove Jaleel, trying to move him out of the way as we begin a pushing match at the door.

“Thirsty ass nigga. Hold on,” Jaleel says, turning to quickly unlock the door and pull it open.

Kyelle’s brows hike upon seeing me and Jaleel at the door before he speaks while I check out my woman.

“Welcome to our hou—excuse me. Welcome to the Evans’ crib. Come on in, sis.”

Kyelle laughs when Jaleel extends his arm while bowing at the same time with his fake ass.

“Thank you for your?—”

“Bye, bro.” I cut Kyelle off, shoving him out the door once she steps inside the foyer.

“Damn. You are a rude motha—” Jaleel’s words are cut off when I slam the door in his face as Kyelle giggles.

“That wasn’t very nice, Mr. Evans,” Kyelle says, smirking.

“Probably not, but let’s focus on something far more important . . . You look good.”

Kyelle’s face brightens, and a heart-stopping smile forms as my previous stomach jitters melt away when I pull her into my body, wrapping my arms around her. The minute our bodies connect, a feeling of home and my world re-centering fills me with intense heat.

“Ms. Kyelle, you’re here! You’re here!” Mica’s jovial voice has my lips twisting into a grin, forcing me to release Kyelle fromthe embrace that immediately causes me to feel bereft from the separation.

“Hi, sweet girl. How are you today?” Kyelle greets a beaming Mica.

“I’m good. Ooh, you look pretty.” Mica smiles while assessing Kyelle’s attire, causing me to again do the same.

Kyelle is wearing a V-neck black long-sleeve two-piece set that appears extremely comfortable and appropriate for a chill day at the crib. Her hair is in a tight bun resting at the back of her head allowing me to photograph every feature of her beautiful face. The intricate lines that crease her eyelid. The slight dimple between the space just under her cheeks. Not to mention the perfect arch in her brows. Ms. Ky of Echoes of Kyelle is a gorgeous woman and the one my heart stands up to acknowledge every time she’s in close proximity.

“Thank you,” Kyelle says, causing her cheeks to expand as her beautiful white teeth make their presence known.