#*head in hands* it's a fucking drought over here. gotta do shit myself eventually.

[spacedkey]

didn't know in that clip -but found out in a different walking into the mirror session- if you're crouched and wiggle your mouse fast enough, jackie just goes into a gun holding pose for some reason. maybe instead of having no guns be the default animations, they made the sections where he doesn't have guns after so they had to remove the guns. idk. and i can't find out bc there are like no working mirrors outside of the mansion. and no-one has done thorough glitch documenting.

[chromecutie]

Not A Ghost - part 29

A/N - Multi-part fic. Colossus x OC where OC has come home after being wrongfully imprisoned in the Icebox. Warnings for whole fic - references and flashbacks to harsh prison environment, including various types of abuse. Takes place shortly after events in Deadpool 2. Whole thing will end up on my AO3 eventually.

Taglist: @emma-frxst  @ra-ra-rasputiin  @holamor ​  @empressme-bitch  @marvel-is-perfection  @hazilyimagine ​ @marvelhead17 @rovvboat @angstybadboytrash ​ @whitewitchdown ​ @master-sass-blast ​ @mori-fandom @mooleche @dandyqueen @emberbent @leo-writer . Wanna be added or removed? Holla at me.

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Rhonda tugged at the ugly yellow jumpsuit. Somehow, the Department of Mutant Control had gotten uglier and more uncomfortable jumpsuits. She growled under her breath, "Upgraded the collars, downgraded the clothes. What else did they cut corners on to cover these?"

Wade chirped, "Good ol' privatized prisons! Gotta love 'em, right Jackboot Thug Number Three?" He nudged the guard who was ushering them to the mess hall.

Jackboot Thug Number Three was not amused and hit Wade with the cattle prod he carried. With a pained yelp, he crumpled to his knees on the metal grate they walked on. Rhonda slowed, but didn't stop for fear she'd get hit next. Hair still cold and wet from when the officers hosed her off, she shivered. Wade groaned his way back to his feet, "He's a little spicier than you, Pikachu." He played it cool, but his coughing was worrisome.

The Icebox itself looked mostly how Rhonda remembered it. Chilly, hard surfaces everywhere so even quiet sounds echoed extensively. The areas that Cable had broken through only a matter of months ago had been repaired, but were done with functionality in mind and not uniformity with the rest of the facility. Rebar, concrete, and steel jutted at rough angles. Guards stood watch near many of the repaired areas, making it difficult for inmates to try to investigate if there were any weaknesses.

Passing by a group of inmates, Rhonda only recognized a few, but those gave her dirtier looks than the ones she didn’t know. A man with red-rimmed eyes bared his teeth - filed to points - and hissed at her. Showing infinitely more confidence than she felt, Rhonda said, “Hello to you too, snaggletooth. Miss me?”

 A buzzing alarm rang, and inmates flowed around Rhonda, Wade, and their officer escort to the mess hall. “Go ahead,” their officer said gruffly. “Don’t start any shit in there or I will let you die.” Jackboot Thug Number Three melted away into the crowd, leaving Wade and Rhonda to exchange a look.

“Okay,” Wade was way too cheerful, “Let’s get our lunch trays and figure out which cool kids we can sit with.” 

“Nobody, Wade,” she answered flatly as they got in line for food. “I can’t sit with anybody here.”

The other inmates gave them a wide berth. Trays clacked and slid along the metal rails, and even though everyone was hungry, no one got too close to Rhonda. Wade muttered out of the side of his mouth, “Jesus, what did you do, huh?”

“Not here,” her voice was so raspy she was barely audible when she spoke quietly.

The food that was scooped and plopped onto their plates was beige and barely warm. The mess hall staff said it was beef and noodles, but whatever was passing for beef was too pale. There was also a small scoop of green beans - somehow worse than the canned kind, a half an orange that was dry like it had been cut days ago, and the Icebox’s trademark little chocolate pudding cup. “Still better than my piece of shit dad used to make,” Wade shrugged. Rhonda sighed, remembering why some days she had simply opted out of eating. Something tugged and twisted in her heart.

Shoulders up and head down, Rhonda held her tray close, such as it was, and scanned for a table they could take. As they walked past each one, inmates would spread their elbows or scoot a few inches so they all took up more room than they needed. Making an executive decision, Rhonda planted herself at the end of a table, and if the inmates there wanted a bubble around her, they would have to make one. As Wade settled in across from her, the wiry men who were there first scooted a few inches to put some distance between them.

With no appetite, Rhonda started to force down the food. The noodles were too soft, the meat too salty, though it was pretty much the only flavor on the whole plate. She tried the green beans and had to keep herself from gagging. Why were they slimy? Taking a deep breath, she was still deciding whether she would bother trying the orange, when heavy footsteps stomped from across the mess hall and stopped a few feet away from her table. 

“New bitches give me their pudding,” a deep voice echoed through the room and somehow managed to sound a little whiny.

“Ooh, here we go!” Wade said gleefully as he bit into the rind of his orange like it was an apple. 

She briefly closed her eyes and shook her head, her heart already surging with adrenaline. “We’re not new,” she replied, just loudly enough to be heard.

“Oh?” the deep voice grew louder and he took a couple steps. “Because I ain’t seen you here. Where the hell you been if you ain’t new?”

Rhonda fought to keep her breathing slow, controlled. “I’m not gonna spend time explaining myself to idiots.” She glanced over her shoulder, just to gauge this petulant aggressor. 

He was meaty, had a bit of a gut. There was a big burn scar on his face, which spread down his neck and trailed under his collar. His breathing was heavy, though he didn't look like he'd recently exerted himself. His face started turning red as he huffed, "Listen, bitch. You're new, and I'm gonna get your pudding."

Looking back to Wade before the man was even done talking, Rhonda rolled her eyes and shook her head. She knew this type all too well. No amount of conflict de-escalation could salvage this conversation. "Play your intimidation show with someone else." She wasn't loud, but her dry throat sounded like she'd just drank cement mix. Her tone was flat, neutral. Unfortunately, belligerent idiots still hear neutral as combative. Especially when other inmates start snickering.

The red-faced brute came hurtling his full force at Rhonda, and at the last second she swung her legs around the end of the bench, spinning to her feet. She grabbed the man by the back of his head and slammed his face into the edge of the metal table--to a sickening, wet crunch of his teeth breaking. Pieces of his teeth flew over the table. He howled in shock and pain, blood pouring from his mouth, lips busted.

Rhonda shoved him away from her, onto the floor. She picked up her little plastic cup of pudding--the only not-terrible thing in the Icebox and the single hottest commodity--and threw the damn thing on the ground with her whole strength, close to the man’s head. The foil seal broke and pudding splattered over the concrete floor. 

The rest of the inmates stopped laughing and fell silent, watching.

Rhonda wanted to roar and shout, but her throat was too sore, voice too hoarse. Instead, she croaked at the man moaning on the ground, “If you want my pudding so bad, you will lick it off the fucking floor.” When he didn’t move, she tangled her fist in his hair and shoved his face in it, snarling, “Go on, lick it! I’ll wait.” 

He made pitiful sounds, and after some hesitation, finally started licking it off the floor. 

“Wade, come piss on this idiot,” she waved him over.

He winced and balked, “Aw, come on, it hurts to pee!”

She answered him with a glare that very clearly said, Motherfucker, do not test me here or I will make an example of you.

He gave a whining groan like a kid being told to take out the trash, and crossed over to piss on the man who attacked Rhonda.

She searched the immediate area and picked up the broken pieces of teeth from the table and floor. Rattling them in her hand, she raised her voice just loud enough for the other inmates (though it hurt to speak), “Next person who touches me eats these teeth.”

When there was no answer, the inmates resumed their meals and Rhonda and Wade returned to their seats. She forced down her food, despite her nausea, and hoped she didn’t regret it later. 

“Soooo,” Wade raised his eyebrows and picked at his food, “Guess I’m never stealing any french fries from your Happy Meal. Food aggressive, much?”

She chewed her next few bites just as little as she could get away with in order to swallow her food, before giving up eating any more. “If we have the slightest chance for survival,” she said, “We’re gonna have to get control over as much of the prison as possible.”

“Sooner’s better than later,” Wade agreed. “We don’t know what kind of timeline we have.”

Scanning the room with the corner of her eye, Rhonda observed, "You see the tall, skinny guy with the blue hair?" When Wade confirmed, she continued, "He's sitting with the Vicious 13. Last time I was here, he was high-ranking with the Red Disciples." She stole a glance around the room. "I don't see who I'd expect for the Disciples, so something happened. We need to find what."

They finished their meals and as they returned their trays, the other inmates gave them sideways glances. It was respectful - sort of - like the way all animals must drink during a drought, and there will be surprising moments of tenuous peace. However, as people clustered to return trays was also a good time for a whole gang to shank one victim and then disperse with no one sure who did the attack. When neither Rhonda nor Wade was stabbed, she was sure the semi-respectful glances were the other inmates sizing her up, calculating who could take her down, when, and how.

“I see it too,” Wade’s voice was low in her ear, “Come on.” He pinched part of her jumpsuit to lead her to a less crowded part of the mess hall, less obvious than taking her by the elbow. They could hear the tiny rattle and rustle of the teeth fragments in Rhonda’s pocket. Her exterior looked calm enough, but her heart was pounding and she kept every muscle tensed just to keep from trembling. When they were out of everyone’s arm’s reach, Wade had a coughing fit. It was a deep, choppy cough that wracked his body.

Rhonda put a hand on his shoulder, brows creasing, “What’s wrong?”

Wade groaned as his cough subsided, “Probably a bunch of fuckin’ tumors. I didn’t tell you my superpower is just not dying of cancer?”

Realization dawned and turned to horror on her face. “So the collar...Wade! Why did you jump in on this?”

A guard barked, “Inmates! Turn in for the night. Lights out in one hour.”

Clearing his throat to stave off another coughing fit, he answered, “Because I’m the right choice. If Cable’s cut off from his powers, his metal arm will become his metal everything; we already covered how Colossus wouldn’t make it a day without getting his shit wrecked. Maybe Domino would get by fine, but I know the Icebox better.”

Stunned, Rhonda said quietly, “I could do this on my own if I had to.”

“It’s bad enough to send you back in here at all,” Wade shook his head, “Nobody’s saying you aren’t tough, but everyone’s got their limits.”

“How long do you have?” her voice cut out in her hoarse whisper, like a phone call with a bad connection.

Wade shrugged, “At least a few days, we’ll be fine.”

Her eyes widened in dread. Before she could answer, the guard yelled a few feet away from them, “INMATES! Cells! Now.”

Wade squared his shoulders and turned on the charm with a fake English accent, “Ah, concierge! Show us to our rooms please, we’ve only just arrived.”

The officer gripped his cattle prod, a warning. Then he waved his hand to usher them along. They shuffled up some stairs, steps echoing through the concrete cavern. He led them to their cell block and stopped at one cell that was occupied by what looked like a werewolf with terrible mange. “You’re in here,” he shoved Wade in.

The realization that they were separating made Rhonda’s heart leap into her throat, veins turning cold.

If Wade was worried, he didn’t let it show. He waved, “Bye, bestie! See you in the morning!”

Somehow, she forced herself to nod and allowed the guard to herd her further down the row to her cell. Someone was in there, but it was too dark to see who; the lights were busted in that cell. There was something cruel in the way the guard chuckled, “Good luck, mutie,” as he pushed Rhonda in, right before the doors mechanically slid closed.

“I heard the rumors that Guestbook was back,” a feminine voice like crushed velvet purred, “but I didn’t believe it until I saw for myself.”

Rhonda sighed, irritated. “Hello, Mimi.”

[scornedlove]

Chapter Twenty One

ROBYN

“Thanks for coming with me today.” Melanie beamed, showing her pearly whites as she arranged her photos on the display. Jermaine usually accompanied her during festival events she worked to keep her company, but since we were leaving for Barbados tomorrow, we made it a girl’s night. She was a vendor for “Jazz on the Lawn” this year, a cultural event for arts in the city. She brought sixteen photographs and sold half in the first hour we’ve been here, I felt like a proud big sister.

“Of course, you know this is my kind of shit; food, music, and art. It’s like we’re getting a head start for crop over, I wish Rayven would’ve came.” I frowned, thinking about how antisocial she’s been lately. She seemed to be back to herself, but different all together. She’s a lot quieter than before and a complete homebody. She doesn’t leave home, other than when we go to work. I never thought it was possible, but I’m starting to miss her smart mouth.

“She’ll get back to herself eventually, but I like the new Rayven a little better” she admitted with a shrug. "And this don’t compare to crop over, I can’t wait”

“True, but I swear this event is twice as big as it was the last time I came. When Chris and I used to come here together, I would lay out on a blanket and listen to the music while he sold his paintings, and it was never this many people” I reminisced aloud, while rocking along to the band currently playing.

“Un-un. You gotta stop doing that” she frowned, shaking her head.

“Doing what?” I asked confused. I was only doing a slight rock to the beat, if she was already embarrassed, she hadn’t seen nothing yet.

“Stop referencing him in every conversation” she criticized, before turning on her professional face and voice to approach a couple who was coming over to browse her photos. She talked as they browsed until they found one they both couldn’t walk away from.

“You gotta understand that it’s hard not to mention him, we were together for almost as long as I been here. He’s apart of damn near every memory I have, especially in the city” I explained, as soon as her customers were out of ear shot.

“I’m sorry sis, but it’s time to make some new memories. Have you talked to Dre recently?” she asked changing the subject. She swore he was the answer to my problems, but I begged to differ. He’s just as damaged as I am, only difference is he doesn’t even realize it.

“No. I’ve been so busy.  Working non-stop. We’ll be dropping the uh winter collection for River Island soon” I stammered while playing with my hair.

“Excuses, excuses” she rolled her eyes, giving me a dismissive wave. “That boy loves you. You need to give him a real chance”

“What makes you think he ‘loves’ me?” I scoffed, entertaining her assumptions.

“Do you not remember me giving Jermaine the same run around you’re giving Dre? Look at us now.” she smiled, glancing down at her ring finger.

“So , now that you’ve been married for five minutes, you’re the love expert” I chuckled and she flipped me off.

“No, I’m not an expert. I took good advice from my sister and now I couldn’t be happier”

“You’re just happy to be getting consistent dick after that long ass drought” I snickered . It was still unbelievable that my promiscuous best friend somehow ended up married before me, so it was hard to take her serious.

“Laugh all you want, but you’re right. I get consistent dick, massages, conversation, and love in general. Let that sink in” she winked, leaving me to tend to her growing crowd, as a few more people came over.

The smell of food filled my nostrils while I watched and waited. Mel was working, so I found myself wondering off to find something to eat. The closest thing I found was a taco truck and thankfully there was only a handful of people in line.

“Lots of hot sauce please.” I gave the friendliest smile I could, encouraging the worker to give extra after handing me our food. I was so excited about the extra hot sauce he gave me, that I didn’t notice I was being watched.

“Let me help you with that!” someone called out, stepping out of line to help me balance the drinks, food, and my wallet, as I was about to walk past.

“Chris? What are you doing here?” I asked, trying to keep my face platonic. I wasn’t his biggest fan right now. Somehow, I inadvertently befriended his girlfriend. “I didn’t realize you still participated in this event.”

“I don’t, but I know several artists that are. I’m here for support” he shrugged, before taking the drinks I was carrying.

“Who are you here with?” I asked, praying it wasn’t Tae. She came down to the boutique a few weeks ago. We went over some ideas, then tweaked them back and forth through email for a few days. Eventually, we came up with a design that she loved for their bridesmaid dresses. I'm over her existence in general. All she talked about was how ‘in love’ her and her man were, and there was no way Chris was that into her.

“I came with Trey. He’s out looking for the beer, while I get the food.” he replied, before asking me the same thing.

“I’m here with Mel” I revealed, nodding towards her as I began to walk in that direction. Her crowd had died down and she was grinning from ear to ear while texting. That is, until she looked up and spotted Chris following my lead.

“Why am I not surprised?” she asked throwing her hands up and shaking her head at me.

"You're looking good too Mel" Chris nodded towards her, killing her with kindness. I knew he was still on her bad side, so I didn’t expect her to be nice or even hold her tongue around him.

"Yup" she retorted, folding her arms and refusing to look at him. He looked at me as if there was something I could say to change her attitude, but I stayed out of it.

“Trey’s wedding is soon, on the thirty-first. Are ya’ll going to make it?” he asked changing the subject while looking from her to me.

“Nope” Mel replied before taking her Coke from his hand and the plate of tacos from me, then dismissing herself.

"She'll come around ...I hope" I mumbled, frowning at her spitefulness.

"Speaking of coming around, T told me you came by the gallery last week. I wish you would've told me you were coming; we could've grabbed a bite to eat or something"

"Well I was in the neighborhood and it's been a minute so, I decided to see what you've been up to lately. By the way, I was not disappointed" I smiled, thinking of the piece I purchased. It was completely different from anything he’s ever done.

“Thanks. I’ve fallen in love with spray paint” he admitted, a broad smile spreading across his face revealed his dimples.

“There you are. I called you several times bro!” Trey interjected, coming from behind Chris and slapping his shoulder. I jumped back a little, then grabbed my drink so they didn’t drop it with all their roughing around.

“My bad, I ran into Robyn and got sidetracked”

“Robyn?!” Trey exclaimed, finally noticing me. He pulled me into a bear hug then playfully spun me around, making my shirt twirl. “You’re looking good girl”

“You look good too” I gushed. “Congrats on everything. I’m sorry I won’t be able to make the wedding but I’m so happy for you and Lala”

“Thank you. Who’s the lucky guy?” he asked, noticing the diamond on my ring finger. Chris’ eyes widened as he struggled to look around Trey and get a glimpse of the ring himself.

“Oh nah, that’s not that kind of ring” I explained, pulling my hand back. I could’ve sworn I heard Chris sigh of relief and his posture relaxed.

“Did you find the beer or nah?” Chris interrupted, getting between us.

“No, but check this out” he grinned, pulling a clear plastic bag from his pocket and holding it up to Chris’ nose.

“That shit nasty. I got a stick in the car. You trying to blow right now?” he asked, ready to smoke.

“Yeah, let me see if I can find us a couple of coronas first, then I’ll meet you at the car. It was good seeing you Robyn” he added, before disappearing into the crowd.

“So, Mama’s grilling on Labor Day this year” Chris stated, turning his attention back to me. “I told her about running into you and she wanted me to invite you.” he revealed, pulling off his cap and running his hands across the top of his head.

“Why doesn’t she invite your current girlfriend?” I probed, wondering what Ms. Joyce was up to.

“She did, but she won’t be able to make it. She has something going on with her family”

“I don’t know if I’ll be in the city then, but I’ll let you know.” I replied with a half shrug. “I’m trying to hit that blunt with ya’ll tho”

“Since when do you smoke?” he asked, raising his brows.

“Since I’m grown and do what I want” I snapped, throwing my hands on my hips. 

“Damn, my bad. I didn’t mean to offend you. I never imagined you smoking weed” he grinned, biting his bottom lip.  

“Well I’m not the Robyn you used to know.”

“That’s perfect, because I’m not the Chris you used to know” he replied, before leading the way to the parking lot.

We hot boxed two blunts of some of the strongest weed I’d ever had in Trey’s car and my high ass couldn’t stop giggling. No matter how corny their jokes were, Chris and Trey had me in the back seat in tears for twenty minutes straight.

“If I would’ve known you get like this after smoking, we would’ve been doing it together.” Chris confessed when Trey stepped out of the car to take a phone call.

“I'm not usually this giggly. Actually, smoking usually makes me horny” I replied when I finally caught my breath.

“We’re not even going to go there”

“Why not? We can’t talk about sex if we aren’t having it?”

“Hell nah, talk about that shit with Mel. I don’t want to hear shit about you fucking anybody else.”

“Who says I’m fucking anybody else?” I smirked, enjoying the jealousy on his face.

“So, you’re gonna sit here and tell me you haven’t had sex since we’ve been together?” he quizzed, tilting his head to the side.

“That’s not what I said. I’m not fucking anyone currently, but I’ve been with one person since you.” I admitted unapologetically, before opening the door and putting the blunt out on the ground.

“I’ve had my share” he agreed with a nod, refusing to give an exact number.

“Well, I bet none of em got nothing on me” I smirked, noticing the bulge in his pants.

“You sound pretty confident”

"Because you're happy to see me” I grinned, nodding towards his erection.

“My bad. It's not you- I mean, not like you don't look good, because you do." He stammered with bright red cheeks while adjusting himself. "It’s been awhile”

“Oh, your girlfriend got you on punishment? I’m sure you deserve it” I teased with a giggle. “What you do?”

“It’s not even like that” he paused, then sighed when he saw me waiting for him to continue. “she’s celibate”

“So ya’ll haven’t even...?” I gasped and he quickly replied with a shake of the head.

“Damn, you went from having your cookie and eating it too, to having a drought!" I laughed loudly as my phone started to ring.

It was Mel cursing me for leaving her for so long. I started to argue that she was being dramatic, but then I noticed we had been gone for almost an hour.  I hung up with her and promised Chris we'd hang out again soon before we parted ways.

Surprisingly, Mel didn’t complain or have one negative thing to say when I came back. She sold everything she’d brought so we hung out for another hour before calling it a night.

Early the next morning, Rayven claimed she wasn’t feeling good and decided to sit out on crop over. I would’ve made a big deal about it, but I remembered the last encounter she had with her mom. That had to be the real reason she was avoiding BIM.

“The holidays will be here in no time; I’ll go then.” she groaned with her face in her pillow as I stood there with my hands on my hips. “Fine, I guess you can stay with Ollie and Pepe” I shrugged without a fight. I was glad I wouldn’t have to board my babies, and it’s not like I could force her to go anyway.

An hour later, Mel and I boarded the plane with so much excitement. We had fun people watching and talking shit, but it wasn’t long before she passed out and I was on my own. I wish I had that gift, but I was no longer taking the anxiety medicines that could help with that. I hadn’t even noticed I was taking less the past couple of months. Only, I was also smoking more and that usually did the trick a lot faster.

Instead of sleeping, I found myself catching up on some work. Fashion week was creeping up and there were a couple pieces that didn’t feel complete. I was being indecisive on some finishing touches.

I was also working on an event of my own. Last year, I was so depressed that I didn’t even celebrate the first anniversary of Robyn’s. This year, we’re going to begin an annual fashion show and I was keen to the idea of my very own catwalk. It meant more work, but I was more motivated than I’ve been in awhile and I wanted to milk this feeling as much as I can.

We were close to landing when I completed my plan and I felt accomplished. So much that I couldn’t wait to get back to put my ideas into effect.  The moment we arrived, that changed. Work slipped my mind as the smell of the ocean filled me up and a satisfied feeling crept over me, we were home.

We spent the night at moms catching up with the family and getting ready for carnival. I talk to my family several times a week, but I never notice how much things are changing until I see them.

Rorrey was working on music at the studio. He and Lele were still going strong. They were three years in and so in love with each other. They had an innocent puppy love, but could still teach grown folk a thing or two.

Rajad finally had his first girlfriend so he was at her place. I had yet to meet her, but he sent me some pictures of them. She was beautiful and I've never saw my brother smile so big, so I knew she was good for him.

Mom and dad were also bit by the damn love bug. They kept stealing kisses, so I assumed they were on good terms. It bugged me, but I kept my opinion to myself.

Gran looked happy, but was frailer than the last time I saw her. I noticed Bravo being extra careful with her, as if she were a china doll. Nothing or no one could stop her from wukking up with us girls. She danced as island music blasted through the house until her feet hurt. Mel, Lele, and I wined and gave ourselves a warm up for tomorrow until the sun started to creep up.

Carnival was a blast as always. It came and went so fast. All I remember is wining on whoever was close enough and drinking with Lele as if our lives depended on it. I could always count on her to be my turn up partner. Today was no different and after barfing for the second time since we got to the beach, I had finally taken the edge off.

“See Rob? What I tell ya bout mixin that shit?” Lele cackled. I flipped her off and rolled my eyes at the same time. She hiccuped loud as hell, then threw her head back in laughter. She was laughing so hard, she almost dropped the cup she was holding.

While the waves crashed behind us, Mel, Ella, Le, Nita, and I were all huddled around a bonfire. We were smoking and vibing to Rorrey's latest music, while recuperating from today’s festivities.

“You know I gotta ask you Mel” Nita began with a smirk, after passing up on the blunt. “How’s it feel for ya pokey to be back in business?” 

“It feels fuckin fantastic” Mel exclaimed as she proceeded to explain to us that her husband has a magic dick. 

“But the best part isn’t even about the sex, Jermaine is a rare breed. He’s so attentive and supportive, things I didn’t even know I wanted in a man, I find in him.”

“Blasted, I need to be celibate” Nita thought aloud.

“That’s what all the hoes are doing now days” I teased, before falling into a laughing fit. 

“What dat mean?” Mel asked, tilting her head in confusion. 

“I found out yesterday that Chris and Tae are celibate.” 

“Wait, you’re back on speaking terms with Chris?” Ella chimed in, finally taking her eyes from her phone since we got here.

“What the fuck? When did this happen and why?” Lele snapped, demanding answers. I gave them the quick version of how we got back in good graces, but Lele still wasn’t buying it.

“Look bitch, I know ya got history with him and all, but don’t you wanna try something new? Someone that ain’t horning when you ain’-”

“Chill! We’re friends”

“Don’t listen to dem Robbie, and don’t explain yourself. You can’t help who you love. If you think he’s changed and ya’ll wanna try again, do it . Fuck everybody’s opinions” Ella condoned. 

“But watch it from dey” Nita yelled. “You just now gettin back to yourself, be careful. 

“Everything ‘bout that situation woke my ass up from lala land. Ya’ll don’t have to worry about me. I will never be that dumb or naïve again. ” I reassured them, and I meant it. Lele was still skeptical, and even though Mel kept quiet, I knew she was too. 

Still, I meant what I said. After all I’ve been through, I’ll always be on my toes and I refuse to tolerate any bullshit. My happiness is priority and any man that doesn’t agree and put forth the effort to prove it, isn’t worth my time.

As we sat in silence passing the blunt, my mind couldn’t help but wonder. I wondered if hanging out with Chris was a mistake. I knew where I wanted it to lead, but what if he were playing games with me once again. He agreed to be celibate for another woman, but couldn’t keep it in his pants for me. The thought of that made me jealous, but I can’t deny that I’m happy to see growth in him all at the same time.

“Don’t think about it too much” Mel uttered, pulling me out of my own mind. “Let it go. Don’t fight it, don’t stress. Whatever happens, happens.”

"I needed to hear that" I nodded in agreement, realizing she was right. 

"I got ya back" she stated, throwing her arm around my shoulders.It wasn’t long before Lele followed suit, then the other girls. Before I knew it, we were all huddled on the ground in laughter with sand in our hair and clothes. We were in our happy place.  

[sinandredemptionff]

Chapter 14: Secrets and Betrayal

Robyn POV:

I stepped onto the plane and took my seat. I waved to Don one final time at the window. He waved back as he wiped his face. Was he crying? I hope not.

"Mrs. Brown, would you like anything to drink?"

"Bring me whatever alcohol y'all have."

"Sure."

After two glasses of vodka and cranberry, I decided to take a nap.

*3 Hours Later*

"We have arrived." The flight attendant said waking me up.

I yawned and looked out the window. I saw our family car and Chris getting out with a bouquet of roses. I unbuckled my seatbelt and hurriedly made my way off the jet and into his arms.

He picked me up and we began having a makeout session. It was getting intense but we didn't care. We're married and we missed each other.

"Man you don't know how happy I am that you're back." He said.

"I think I have an idea."

"I gotta get your ass home. Come on."

"Where are my babies?"

"With my mom. She's had them out all day and they’re staying in a hotel tonight. I didn't tell them that you'd be back today, so it's a surprise."

"I can't wait to see them."

When we got home I immediately went to lay in my bed.

"It feels so good to be back in my own house."

"I bet." Chris said lying next to me.

"Especially being back with my husband by my side."

I cuddled up to him and he began to kiss me as his hands roamed my body. I let out a soft moan and he smiled. I climbed on top of him not breaking from our kiss and unbuttoned his shirt. The doorbell rang interrupting us.

"Fuck, who is it?" He turned the surveillance camera on the tv to see who was at the front door.

It was my girls smiling and making faces at the camera.

"My sisters are here!!" I said excitedly and hopping off of him.

"You really told them you're back already?"

"Oh yea sorry, I actually texted them when we were on our way. I didn't know they would come over."

"Tell them to leave."

"I'm not doing that."

"Unlike some men I love your friends but we haven't seen each other in months, and I missed the fuck out of you. This might be the only time we have to ourselves for a while."

"I missed you too honey but they're here now, and I'm not going to tell them to leave. I'll make it up to you, ok?"

"Fine!" He said and I gave him a quick peck.

"I'm coming bitches!" I yelled as I jogged down the stairs.

I opened the door and hugged everyone individually then we did a group hug.

"We missed you sis." Mel said.

"I missed y'all too. Now pop open that bottle and let's talk."

We got some fruit and wine, and went into the den. We sat on the floor Indian style.

"Tell us everything about NY." Mya said.

“Yes, how did you like my state?” Jessica added.

"Girl there's so much to tell."

"Spill it."

"Here's your phone. I'm going over to Trey's house to meet with the homies." Chris interrupted.

"Thanks and ok let me know when you make it."

"Aight."

"Hey to you too Christopher." Jessica said.

"Hi."

"Umm is someone upset?"

"Yea, he's cranky because y'all interrupted something."

"Oop we're sorry bro, we didn’t know."

"It's cool, bye y'all." He said leaving.

"You didn't tell us that you were about to give up the goods and now he's mad at us. That man is probably so frustrated." Monique said.

"He'll be ok. He waited over 2 months he can wait another few hours."

"Chile I guess, anyway back to New York. What happened?"

I told them every detail about my experience and showed them pictures of the new store.

"How are the people there? Did you make new friends?"

"She better not had replaced us." Mya said.

"I could never. I met a few nice people. What were y'all up to?" I said changing the subject.

"Nah sis you're not getting off that easy. I know you too well and I know you're not telling us something. Who was he?" Mel said and everyone looked at me. I didn't say anything and downed my glass of wine.

"Oh bitch!! See I knew something was up because as much as you talk about Chris I know you would've left us outside for the D. So spill!!" Monique said eating a strawberry.

"Don't tell us you cheated on Chris." Jessica said.

"No! I would never in my life cheat on my husband."

"What happened then because the way you're acting says a lot."

"Nothing happened. I met a guy named Don and we became close. I considered him just a friend, but today when he dropped me off at the airport something seemed off."

"What do you mean?"

“I think he has feelings for me. He didn’t say it but that’s the vibe I got.”

"I don't know what to say."

"Did you do anything to lead him on or think that you were interested?"

"He knows that I'm happily married and have a family. I would go over to his place for dinner sometimes and play with his son. We spent a lot of time together but I was just nice to him."

"Sis you're fine and have a dope personality, niggas are going to fall for you eventually." Monique said.

"What am I supposed to do?"

“I want to know what he looks like.” I pulled out my phone and showed them a picture of us from his son’s birthday party.

“Oh shit he is fine!” Monique blurted out.

“Mo!!”

“Oops I mean he’s aight.”

“Robyn, do you possibly have feelings for him?”

“What?”

“Do you have more feelings for him than you’re putting on?” Mel asked.

“Honestly, I thought about it.”

“Giiirrrrl no ma’am. You can’t do that to Chris.” Monique said.

“Real shit Robs because Chris is a good man.” Jessica agreed.

“Y’all think I don’t know how great my husband is? Of course I know. I’m the one with him therefore y’all can’t tell me shit. Excuse me.” I said getting up.

I went to sit in the backyard by myself. I got slightly pissed about them trying to imply that I didn’t value my husband. I’ve been through it all with that man and I know him better than anyone. Those are my best friends and I didnt expect them to come at me like that.

“Robyn, we’re sorry.” I heard them say and I rolled my eyes.

“We didn’t mean to get you upset. We just know how much you and Chris went through to get to this point, and we would hate to see someone come in between that. Can you please forgive us? We love you.” Monique said.

“Ugh I guess I can and I love y’all too.”

“Now what you were saying earlier sis?” Mya said.

“Like I said I thought I had feelings for him but I realized it was only because he was there. I was used to having male attention from Chris every day that it was weird not having it until I met Don. He was there for me the same way Chris is except there was no sexual interactions what so ever, but when I saw Chris at the airport I was reminded why he is the man I married. When I kissed him again I realized there’s no way I can have feelings for another man when all of my heart belongs to him.”

“Damnit sis, you make me sick with this cute shit.” Monique said wiping her eyes.

“Are you crying forreal?”

“Shut up, y’all know I’m sensitive.”

“Girl here’s a napkin, but anyways I understand what you’re saying Robs and it makes sense.” Jessica said.

“I get it too. I mean you’re used to affection and attention, and when Don showed you that you developed a temporary grade school crush. It’s no big deal honestly.”

"Exactly!" I replied.

They shifted the conversation and got on what they've been up to. However, my mind stayed on the one we just had. I can't think about this anymore. Don is a great guy and he'll be perfect for someone else.

Chris POV:

"Why aren't your women with y'all?" I said when I walked into the den of Trey's house.

"Because they're with Robyn."

"Right and that's the problem."

"Why is that a problem?"

"Nigga probably ain't have the chance to get it in before they came over." Trey said and they all laughed hysterically.

"I'm glad y'all think it's funny."

“Ok y’all, leave a brother alone. It’s hard when a man is going through a drought.” Jermaine said.

“Thank you, at least someone understands my pain.” I quickly go quiet after my last statement.

“Well I’m sorry I can’t relate.” Trey said.

"What about you and Monique?"

"Wait, you just reminded me that we haven't had sex yet, thanks a lot Mijo. Nevermind fam I can relate."

"How is that working out for y'all?" Jermaine asked.

"Pretty well actually, thanks for asking." Trey replied.

"No problem man."

"Back to the subject at hand." I said.

“Seriously all jokes aside bro, I told Monique to not go over there. She’s hard headed.” Trey said.

My mind keeps reverting back to Robyn’s trip and I can’t help but to think she isn’t telling me everything. I know that woman all too well.

“Y’all don’t think Robyn would…?” I can’t even say the word.

“Would what?” Mijo asked confusingly.

“Cheat?” I replied lowly.

“You never know what someone is capable of doing when you’re not around and I don’t put anything past anyone. However, in this case bruh no. That woman loves you too much, she has shown that. Why would you ask that?”

“I don’t know, it was stupid to think anyway. I’m trippin’ but let’s talk about something else. Trey, how is your relationship with Mo going?”

“Great! She’s given me what I didn’t know I needed in my life.”

“Are you two official yet?” Shad chimed in as he walked in from the kitchen munching on a snack. Trey gave him a funny look and shook his head.

“Just because y’all are my niggas doesn’t mean you all are free to eat me out of a house and home.”

“That’s exactly what it means. Stop trippin’ we’ve been tight since like the third grade. You’re practically my brother, now answer my question about Monique. She’s so damn fine with those slick baby hairs and deep dimples.” Shad continued to egg Trey on.

I don’t know why he likes picking at him. We all know Trey has a temper but he’s being extremely calm right now, thank God.

“To answer your question, no we aren’t official. I actually really like her though. She spends the night and we go out three times a week. Everyone in this room knows that never happens which can make this a good or bad thing.”

“Damn Tremaine I’m happy for you, don’t fuck this up she’s a good girl.  You need to stop playing and officially wife that. She’s smart with a great head on her shoulders. My baby did a great job looking out.” I said.

“She sure did, that’s why I have to thank my sister. Now do y'all want to get on this 2k or poker? Either way I’m dominating, this is my house.” Trey began trash talking, something he is great at. He thinks he can beat us all in every game.

“Nigga you know I’m always ready.” I called his bluff.

“Nah, I’m about to head out. I’ll catch up with you guys later.” Jermaine retorts. 

“Where are you going? I drove us here. Jess picking you up or something?” Mijo asked.

“Umm yea. Anyway just play y’all little game and stay out of a grown man’s business.” He chuckled.

He waved his hand in the air before removing his coat from the rack in front of him. I know Jermaine he’s very discrete. He moves very quietly when he’s up to something. We used to joke and call him the silent killer.

“Who’s ready to get their ass whooped in 2k? Come on down to the price is right.” Trey joked.

“Put your money where your controller is then Mr. Neverson. I bet three hundred dollars. Winner takes all.”

“Stop being modest like you aren’t wealthy as fuck over there. I’ll put up eight hundred.” Trey challenged me.

“Cool that’s fair game. Anyone else want in?”

“No thanks, I have a wife and a kid to feed. I don’t have the luxury of throwing money around.” Mijo laughed.

Trey plugged up the system and the game began. This is all or nothing and I refuse to go home empty handed.

Jermaine POV:

I looked behind me to make sure none of the fellows were watching me. I didn’t drive over here for a reason, I rode with Mijo because I knew I had other plans. I walked a few blocks down from Trey’s house to my destination. I got in the passenger seat of the car that was waiting for me on the corner.

“Hello handsome. To my place or yours?” Her sweet voice sounded in my ear. A smirk formed on my face. When I’m around her I can’t help but smile.

“To my place gorgeous.”

After a ten minute ride in silence we entered the parking lot of my condo. I unraveled myself from the seatbelt as fast as I could. Reaching towards the driver’s seat I grabbed her face and began passionately kissing her. With each kiss our make out session intensified. My breathing was beginning to become heavy and she slightly moaned. I broke from our kiss and her brown complexion was turning red.

“Wow Jermaine that was amazing.” That was the first time we’ve kissed and it felt amazing.

After a couple of months of playing phone tag we started hanging out recently, and it didn’t take long for me to realize I wanted her in the worst way. I feel terrible about doing this to Jessica but I can’t resist her.

“No, you’re the amazing one Mya.”

“Here I was thinking to myself this night better be worth it. I left my girls to be with you. They also questioned me and gave me the third degree. I lied saying I had to get some sleep.”

“Well was it worth it or do I need to kiss you again for an answer?”

“It’s more than worth it. I’m starting to feel you’re worth it. Jessica and I have been friends since middle school and she has had my back ever since. She has always been there for me but I can’t control who I care about. I know I will lose my best friend behind this but I’ve been through so much hell, and you are like a breath of fresh air. I’m tired of hiding us from everyone Jermaine. We are grown as hell and should be allowed to be with whomever we want, no matter the consequences.” I knew eventually she would become frustrated. Women hate to feel they are hidden.

“Baby girl we will tell them when we are sure it's right. We are grown but I just don’t want to bombard them with this. Jess doesn’t deserve to be hurt and we’ve been together for a long time. I do still love her but it’s something about you that draws me in.”

“I feel the same way about you. I know this is wrong but I can’t help myself. If only you were someone else and not my best friend’s boyfriend everything would be easier.”

“Yea, but I guess anything worth having in life isn’t easy.” I pecked her lips and we headed inside my condo.

Jessica has been my ride or die for a long time and she has my heart. However, Mya is intriguing and I can’t stop myself from thinking about her. I haven’t told anyone about my dealings with Mya because not only do I not want to hurt my girl, I’m not sure how Chris will act.

Mya and Chris haven’t been together in forever, and he’s very much in love with Robyn but he can be very selfish at times. He’s a Taurus, who’s naturally bull-headed. I’m not ready for anyone to fuck up the happiness I feel and I’m not ready for judgement from the rest of the guys. They will rant about how I broke the bro code and say I should feel shameful. Mya is a special person to me in my life. Chris played her if we’re truthfully speaking and we’re not even going to speak on the bastard who put his hands on her. We will tell everyone about our blossoming friendship eventually. I know we need to do this soon before this explodes before our eyes. There will never be a right time to tell them but it has to be done. Either way hearts will be broken. Chris is my brother and I don’t want any bad blood between us. Jessica is my love and I honestly don’t want to lose her, but she needs to know the feelings I have for her friend.

Trey POV:

As I cleaned up my house two hours later after the intense game challenge, I feel foolish. I lost my money to Chris and I’m certain I won’t hear the last of it. Normally I am the one who is amazing at shit like this but maybe I got too cocky. My doorbell began chiming in the middle of my cleaning session. It’s probably one of the boys. They are always forgetting car keys and cell phones. I opened the door and to my surprise I’m greeted by a petite Monique, who’s wobbling from side to side. She can barely keep her balance.

“Hey, I missed you so I told the cab driver to bring me over. I hope you don’t mind.” She hiccuped making her way through the front door.

“That’s fine babe. I have no problem with that.”

“By the way you owe the cab driver $80.50. I don’t know where I lost my wallet.” Damn I just keep losing money tonight.

I chuckled lowly to myself as I jogged upstairs to get my wallet. I came back down to Monique spinning in my bar stool. I see this is going to be a long night. I walked outside to give the cab driver exactly what he was owed and go back in the house to assist the little drunk one.

“Baby girl, how many bottles of wine did the girls drink?” I picked her up removing her from the bar stool. She needed to change out of these clothes.

“I lost track, we had good girl talk. We talked about everything baby.” She snickered. 

“What did you talk about?”

“We talked about you and how much I like you. We talked about some other stuff too.” I began removing her clothing one by one. I removed her heels from her feet. I took off her shirt replacing it with one of my big T-shirts and I removed her jeans, and swapped them out for some shorts.

“What are you doing Trey?”

“I’m trying to make you feel comfortable that’s all.” I sat on the edge of the bed and placed her in my lap.

I didn’t know what the hell I was doing but I began fondling with her hair to make a bun. Then I remembered the last time she was here she left a bonnet. I quickly went to the master bathroom to get it. Her eyes lit up once I placed it on her head. I have enough aunties and sisters to know that women never sleep without headscarves on. I laid her down on the bed and cuddled up next to her.

“Oh my gosh Trey you put my bonnet on! That is so beautiful!!” Her eyes are beginning to well with tears. Yep someone is definitely out of it. It’s time for bed.

“I’ll do anything for you, never forget that.” I placed kisses on the side of her neck. She giggled like a school girl with a crush. I don’t know what it is about her that makes me want to be all in.

“That’s why I love you Trey.” She mumbled lowly but I still heard her.

It feels like the room is spinning. My heart is pounding fast. I can’t say it just yet. I pretended I didn’t hear it and began kissing behind her ears.

“Just get some sleep little one.”

I know I feel things with Mo that I’ve never felt with other women and it makes me feel good, yet it is also terrifying. I have always had a disconnect from women until she came along and now I think I’m getting cold feet. She is more than a man like me deserves.