That weekend, Dominique and Justin were once again at Faith’s house. But this time, Jake accompanied them. Since the meeting that began at the restaurant and ended at Jake’s house, Dominique and Jake had been together every night. Justin was often included in their outings. They’d informed him that they were dating, and that they loved each other. Justin was thrilled, and asked if they were going to get married. Dominique had truthfully answered, “Son, we’re taking this relationship one day at a time.”

“Sister, I didn’t think it could get any better,” Dominique said, as she and Faith enjoyed an after-dinner walk around the block.

“You don’t need to tell me,” Faith said. “The afterglow is all over your face.”

“Really?” Dominique put a hand to her cheek. “It’s that obvious?”

“It is to the sister who’s known you her entire life. I’m so happy things are working out for you and Jake. He’s a good guy. Aaron and I are rooting for y’all.”

“Speaking of the guys, shouldn’t they be back by now?”

“Girl, please. If I know Aaron, him showing Jake the golf course probably turned into them playing a few holes. I hope you’re okay with hanging out a while.”

Jake took his time, lined up his shot, and swung. The golf ball sailed through the air before banking left near a grouping of bushes. “Damn!”

Aaron laughed. “Better luck next time, man.” They walked a ways to Aaron’s ball. He swung and fared much better.

“You know you’re a bad influence, keeping us away from the house this long. I’m surprised Dominique hasn’t called me by now.”

“Faith probably talked her out of it. She knows how important it is for us to hang out, you know, male bonding and all. And I’ve got to tell you, man, after being surrounded by so many women all these years, I’m sure glad to welcome another man into the family.”

Jake looked up from where he was studying his next shot. “Aren’t you getting a bit ahead of yourself ?”

“What? You’re saying that your intentions aren’t honorable where my sister-in-law is concerned?”

“Ha! No, man, I’m not saying that at all.”

“Well all right, then. Y’all better get to setting a date. Neither one of you is getting any younger.”

“What is this, Aaron, a conspiracy? Have you been talking to my brothers?”

“I don’t even know your brothers,” Aaron said, laughing. “So why would you think that?”

“Because the last time I talked to Harold, he pretty much said the same thing.”

58

58

The sold-out Oakland Coliseum cheered as the Raiders left the field for the halftime show. That they’d gotten to the playoffs was amazing in itself but that they were ahead of the Vikings by fourteen had the fans starting the celebration early. Justin was beside himself with glee.