“Not going to lie, I’m kind of surprised you’re here alone. How did you swing that?”

“Moms ain’t really fucking with me right now.”

“Wait. What happened?”

“We exchanged a few words. I got some shit off my chest, and she ain’t like it.”

“Parents don’t usually do good with hearing our sides of the story. Have you tried reaching out?”

“Yeah. She’s reduced me to business only.”

“Maybe she needs time to process the things you said,” she suggested and nodded slowly, contemplating my words. I knew my mom, though. She was waiting on me to apologize and that wasn’t happening. I meant the shit I’d said.

“Nah, Charlie Barnes waiting on an apology, and I’m not being the bigger person this time. I’m always the one making shit right. It’s her turn.”

“Sometimes always being the bigger person is worth it, though.” Her voice was gentle, and those big, beautiful eyes were staring up at me with concern. “It doesn’t matter who initiates the communication as long as it helps mend things in the long run.”

I stared at her for a moment, considering what she’d just said.

“You make a good point. I guess we both need to schedule that conversation with our moms, huh?”

“I guess so.” She chuckled before dropping her head. “What are you going to get into? You can crash here if you want.”

I shook my head. The offer was tempting as fuck. After the long week I’d had, I needed to rest, but being here without her didn’t feel right.

“Nah, I appreciate it, but I think I’ll head out when you do. I don’t feel like lying up in your spot while you’re at work.”

“That’s insane, Kellon. I’m sure you’re tired.”

“I’ll get some rest in a minute. Don’t worry about me,” I told her as she finished up. I took her plate and loaded the dishes in the dishwasher while she gathered her last-minute things.

“Okay. I’m ready,” she said, tossing her hair back. “Let’s go. My clients are waiting!”

I walked her to her car, stealing a moment to lean against the door and lock my gaze on her.

“I’ma pick you up for lunch. That cool?”

“How do you know where I work?”

“The same way I know where you stay.”

“Stalker,” she said with a smile.

“I’m not the nigga to run from, baby,” I said before she let up her windows and drove away. I hopped into the back of the SUV.

“I’m guessing it went good.”

“Yep.” I nodded.

“Where to?”

“Chanel.”

“Oh, yeah. You a simping ass nigga.”

“Just drive,” I told him as he took off down the street.

Chapter 15