“Kellon Jamal Barnes!” My mom called out as I helped Phileigh settle into one of the plush leather seats on the private jet.

I knew what she wanted before I even turned around. I could already see the scowl plastered on her face.

“Who’s this?” She approached, making me turn to face her. “Who is this girl, Kellon?”

She pointed her finger at Phileigh while placing the other hand on her hip, trying to assert dominance. My mom didn’t play about random women coming around. She always ensured they knew she didn’t play about her son. Mom was terrified of me getting involved with the wrong woman and ending up in some mess. As far as she was concerned, all women were gold diggers and after me for my money and status. She was usually right, but this time was different. Phileigh wasn’t on any of that.

“Phileigh, my mother, Charlie Barnes. Mom, this is Phileigh.”

“Mother and agent,” my mom shot over my shoulder.

“I’ll be right back.”

I glanced between my mother and Phileigh. I could see the discomfort on Phileigh’s face as she politely smiled and waved.

“Ma, chill.” I took a deep breath, pulling her down the aisle and to the back of the plane. “Her name is Phileigh. She’s a barber, and she is coming with me.”

I lowered my voice, not wanting Phileigh to hear our conversation. She seemed like the type who would take off if my mother did too much.

“A barber? How old is that girl? You just got your hair cut before the game. So, I’m confused.” She crossed her arms. “You know how I feel about you bringing a stranger around, especially right now. That girl could be anyone waiting to run and tell Hollywood Tea Room all of our business⁠—”

“She’s twenty-six, a year younger than me, and she’s good people, Ma.” I respected her opinion, but I wasn’t about to go back and forth with her about this. Phileigh was coming no matter what she had to say. “I promise you I got this under control.”

“Kellon, I’m just trying to look out for you, baby.” She sighed, and her eyes darted in Phileigh’s direction. “You know how these women are.”

“I know, Mom. Phileigh not like that, though. She’s never been to Disney. I need a traveling barber. It’s a fair exchange.”

My mom stared at me, giving me those eyes that always made me tell the truth.

“Can you please make sure she has a private room on our floor with a fireworks view in case she wants to watch from there?” I pouted, giving my mom the puppy dog face I’d used since I was three. She was never able to resist it.

“Okay, fine.” She finally caved. “But I’m doing a background check on her.”

“It wouldn’t be right if you didn’t.”