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notapradagurl7 · 4 months ago

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It's Our Anniversary.

Black Fem! Wife!Reader x James St. Patrick!Husband

Fandom: Power TV Show. (2014)

Summary: You were heated when you believed James forgot your wedding anniversary, which he is pretending to forget. He then makes it up to you, his wife with dinner and a steamy night in a ritzy and romantically decorated hotel room.

Word Count: 2,792k

Taglist: @megamindsecretlair @satoruya @planetblaque @playgurlxoxo @babybratzmaraj @becauseimswagman1 @henneseyhoe @superheroprincess22 @pocketsizedpanther @beenathembo @brattyfics @hxneyclouds @yassbishimvintage

@nahimjustfeelingit-writes @nayaesworld @ovohanna24

@novahreign @writingsbytee @avoidthings @kimuzostar @slippinninque @keyera-jackson @theblacklewinsky

@euphorichappiness10 @life-in-the-slut-house @miguelspvssy @liatreads @kaylaahisthebestest- @tforpresz

@dxddykenn

@secretlifeoofmarpessa @westside-rot @mymindisneverhere @mind-somewhere-else @kindofaintrovert @aquarising03 @5starr-staciii

Requested by @keyera-jackson

A/N: Don't forget to leave a like, comment & reblog to support, or you can always ask for a request Enjoy!

Warnings: Affirmations, use of ice, oral )fem receiving) (front and back), dirty talk, cute names, no hardcore. Spooning, sitting on the back of her thighs.

——————

Your eyelids gradually opened to the morning light and the soft glow of the sun filtered through the sheer curtains, casting a warm, golden hue across the room. You stretched languidly, feeling the soft sheets glide over your dark brown skin, a gentle reminder of the comfort of your bed.

The scent of fresh coffee wafted in from the kitchen, mingling with the faint aroma of vanilla from the candles you had lit the night before.

You rolled over to find James, your husband, still asleep beside you. His chiseled features were relaxed, the tension of the world slipping away in the peaceful moments of dawn.

You admired how handsome he looked, even with the slight stubble on his jaw. You brushed your fingers against his cheek, feeling the roughness of his skin under your fingertips.

“James,” you whispered, a teasing lilt in your voice, “you know what today is?”

He stirred slightly, a smirk playing on his lips as he opened one eye, the other still stubbornly closed. “What’s today, baby?” he asked, his voice thick with sleep.

You raised an eyebrow, trying to suppress a smile. “You really don’t remember?”

He chuckled softly, the sound deep and warm, and pulled you closer, wrapping his arms around your waist. “Come on now, I don't remember at all,” he said, his voice low and smooth.

You felt a rush of relief mixed with playful annoyance. “Ugh, if you weren't so preoccupied with work, that gotdamn club and Tommy’s crazy ass, then you would surpirse with something romantic!” you yelled, crossing your arms.

You quickly got out of bed, and got into the shower, you get dressed for work and walk out of the bedroom in sadness. You shook your head from side to side, your hair styled in a curled pixie cut.

The walls were painted a warm hue, filled with framed photographs of your happiest moments together.

The kitchen was cozy, with wooden cabinets and a rustic charm, and you could see the breakfast spread he had prepared: fluffy pancakes, fresh fruit, and steaming cups of coffee.

You rolled your eyes, eating breakfast alone, James walked out of the bedroom and his face softened.

You couldn’t help feeling a tinge of disappointment. “Hey, where you off to in such a hurry?” he called out, his voice laced with concern.

“Work, James! You know, the place where I earn a living while you’re busy playing king of the streets,” you replied, your tone light but your heart heavy.

You grabbed your bag and started toward the door, not bothering to look back.

But before you could step outside, you felt his presence behind you. “Wait,” he said, his voice softening. He placed a gentle hand on your shoulder, turning you to face him. “I’m sorry if I upset you. Let me make it up to you tonight.”

You raised an eyebrow, skepticism dancing in your gaze. “Oh really? And how do you plan to do that?”

James leaned in closer, his warm breath brushing against your cheek. “Trust me. Just be ready at eight.”

The table was beautifully set, adorned with flickering candles and elegant dishware. A bouquet of deep red roses sat in the center, their fragrance intoxicating.

“Surprise!” James stepped out from the kitchen, wearing a fitted black shirt that hugged his built physique perfectly. He looked every bit the king he was, a charming smile lighting up his face.

Your heart fluttered. “You did all this?”

“Only the best for my queen,” he said, his voice dripping with sincerity. “I know I messed up this morning, but I want to show you how much you mean to me.”

He pulled out a chair for you, and as you sat down, he began to serve dinner—a delicious spread of your favorite dishes.

Once you ate, the conversation flowed effortlessly. You couldn’t remember the last time you felt this connected, this cherished.

After dinner, James took your hand, leading you to the living room. The atmosphere was intimate, the glow of the candles casting soft shadows on the walls.

“Close your eyes,” he instructed, his voice low and sultry.

You obeyed, feeling a rush of excitement. You heard him move around, the sound of ice clinking against glass. “Okay, open them,” he said.

You opened your eyes to find him holding two glasses of wine, a mischievous grin on his face. “A toast,” he said, raising his glass. “To us, and to many more anniversaries.”

You clinked your glass against his, the sound echoing in the cozy room. “To us,” you echoed, feeling a sense of warmth spread through your chest.

After a few sips, James leaned in closer, his eyes intense and full of desire. “You know, I’ve been thinking about how I can really make this night special for you,” he murmured, his breath brushing against your ear.

You felt a shiver run down your spine, excitement blooming in the pit of your stomach. “Oh really? And what did you have in mind?”

He leaned back slightly, a playful smirk on his lips. “How about we take this celebration to the next level? I’ve booked us a room at that fancy hotel downtown. Just you and me.”

Your heart raced. “James, you didn’t!”

“I did,” he replied, his voice low and teasing. “So, what do you say? Ready for a night to remember?”

The car ride was rather quickly, his hand rested on your thigh. He opened the door for you and he kissed your forehead.

When you arrived at the hotel, the lobby was opulent, adorned with marble floors and golden chandeliers that glittered like diamonds. James took your hand, leading you to the elevator with a confident stride, his presence commanding and reassuring.

Once inside the elevator, the doors slid closed, isolating you in the intimate space. James turned to you, his expression shifting from playful to serious.

“I want tonight to be special for you,” he said, his voice low and deep. “You deserve it.”

Your heart swelled at his words, the sincerity in his gaze wrapping around you like a warm embrace. “I know it will be,” you replied, feeling a flutter in your stomach.

Once the elevator doors opened, you stepped into the dimly lit hallway, the air thick with anticipation. James led you to your room, and when he unlocked the door, it swung open to reveal a beautifully decorated suite.

The room was bathed in soft, ambient light, with rose petals scattered across the bed and candles flickering gently, creating an undeniably romantic atmosphere.

With a grin spreading across your face, you nodded. “Absolutely.”

James stood, offering you his hand. “Let’s go, then. I promise you won’t regret it.”

“Wow,” you breathed, taking in the sight. “This is incredible.”

James stepped in behind you, closing the door with a soft click. “I wanted it to be perfect,” he said, his voice husky as he approached you. He wrapped his arms around your waist, pulling you close, the warmth of his body igniting a fire within you.

You looked up into his eyes, feeling a magnetic pull between you. “You’ve definitely succeeded,” you murmured, your breath hitching as he leaned closer.

Without another word, he captured your lips with his, the kiss igniting every nerve in your body. It was passionate and lingering, a mix of love and desire that left you breathless. You melted into him, wanting more, needing more.

James backed you toward the bed, his lips never leaving yours as he guided you down onto the soft sheets.

With that, he pressed a soft kiss to your forehead, leaving you with a lingering warmth that made you forget your annoyance, if only for a moment.

The day dragged on, each tick of the clock feeling like an eternity. When you finally got home, the sun was setting, painting the sky in hues of orange and pink. You stepped into the house, the familiar scent of cinnamon and nutmeg filling the air.

“James?” you called out, but the house was silent, save for the faint sound of music playing softly from the living room.

As you made your way through the cozy space, decorated with dark wood furniture and rich textiles, you felt a sense of anticipation bubbling inside you. Suddenly, you caught sight of the dining area, and your breath hitched in your throat.

James stood at the counter, pouring syrup over the pancakes with the kind of grace that made your heart flutter. “I wanted to make today memorable,” he said, glancing over his shoulder with a smirk. “Can’t have my wife thinking I forgot our special day.”

After breakfast, he pulled you into a tight embrace, his strong arms enveloping you in warmth. “Get ready. We’re heading out for a little surprise.”

You raised an eyebrow, excitement bubbling inside you. “A surprise? Now you’ve got my attention.”

Once you were dressed, you slipped into a stunning black dress that hugged your curves perfectly, the fabric glistening slightly under the light. James couldn’t take his eyes off you as you twirled playfully, a grin spreading across your face.

“You look incredible,” he said, his voice thick with admiration.

The drive to the hotel was filled with light banter and laughter, the kind that made time fly by.

As you arrived, you stepped into a beautifully decorated hotel room, dimly lit with candles and rose petals scattered across the floor. The atmosphere was romantic, with soft music playing in the background.

James turned to you, a serious look on his face. “I wanted tonight to be special, just like you.”

You felt your heart race as he took your hand, leading you to the center of the room. He pulled you close, his breath warm against your ear. “You deserve all the love and passion I can give.”

Later, as the night unfolded, you found yourselves lost in each other, eating dinner again and kissing passionately, wrapped in a cocoon of warmth and intimacy.

“How about we take it to the bedroom?”

“Yes, let's go,”

He guided you to the bedroom, gently pushing him on the soft mattress before kissing him again, he flipped you over and smacked your ass, causing you to moan. Both of your clothes were tossed across the bedroom floor.

He grabbed the ice from the bucket and traced the cold cube around your erect nipple, causing you to shiver, “Stay still baby,” he whispered softly, cupping your nipple tightly.

The cool touch of the ice against your skin sent electric shivers coursing through you, the contrast of the chill and the warmth of James's body igniting a fire deep within you. You bit your lip, trying to suppress the moans that threatened to escape as he moved the ice slowly, teasingly, around your breast.

“James,” you breathed, your voice laced with both vulnerability and desire. “You’re killing me here.”

He chuckled softly, his dark eyes gleaming with mischief. “That’s the plan, baby. Just relax and enjoy.”

With expert precision, he trailed the ice down your torso, his fingers dove in your pussy, you gasped and he thrusted them in and out of you, the sensation both sweet and torturous.

“Now, what do you want, my queen?” he murmured, his voice low and sultry as he hovered just above you, his breath warm against your ear.

You met his gaze, that made your core tighten. “I want you, James. I want all of you.”

He smiled, a wicked grin that made your heart flutter. “As you wish.”

With that, he discarded the ice, taking a moment to admire you as you lay there, your skin glowing in the dim light, Slowly, he sat on the back of your thighs, he captured your lips in a heated kiss.

You melted into him, your hands threading through his hair as you deepened the kiss, feeling his tongue gliding across your clit and clenching folds, your essence left a waterfall down his chin, you moaned loudly, “oh fuck baby,” you groaned lowly, thrusting his tongue in and out of you with skill.

“Damn, you taste good,” he murmured against your clit, his voice rough with desire.

You gasped as he trailed kisses down your wet hole from the back, his tongue leaving a trail of spit in their wake. “James, please,” you whimpered, your body arching against his, craving more. His hands spread your ass cheeks apart and flickering his tongue around your asshole, while his fingers thrust into your entrance.

He looked up at you, his gaze heavy with lust, and you could see the raw hunger in his eyes. “I’ve got you, baby,” he promised, his voice thick with emotion. “Just let go.”

With that, he shifted his focus lower, his lips trailing down your clit, worshipping every inch of you as he made his way to your thighs. He paused, looking up at you with that playful smirk that made your heart race. “You ready for this?”

All you could do was nod, breathless and eager. He dove in, his mouth working its magic on your folds and clit, his tongue sliding on your hole as he lavished attention on you, sending shockwaves of pleasure coursing through your body. “Oh fuck, eat it up,” You gasped, your fingers tangling in the sheets as he took you higher and higher, his name falling from your lips in a breathless chant.

“James, yes...oh God, yes!”

He looked up at you, his eyes darkened with desire, and the sight of him between your thighs sent you spiraling. “You are so beautiful, smart, and sexy, amazing,” He went faster with his tongue and fingers in your pussy, your wetness made a mess on the bed, “oh fuck,” he groaned, He knew exactly how to draw out your pleasure, you were a writhing mess beneath him.

Every flick of his tongue, every gentle bite on your clit, sent you closer to the edge, he pinched your nipples responding eagerly to his ministrations. “You taste so fucking good,” he groaned, his voice thick with need.

You could feel the tension building, your legs around his head, leaving you trapped in his clutch, your hips rolling faster, your nails left marks on his shoulders and neck, a knot coiling tightly within you as he continued his delicious torment. “James, I’m...I’m gonna—”

“Not yet,” he commanded softly, pulling back just enough to keep you on that delicate precipice. His fingers went harder into your pussy and his tongue inside you again, you moaned loudly with fervor.

With a growl of frustration mixed with desire, you gripped the sheets, your body trembling with need. “Please, I can’t hold on much longer.”

“Then let go for me,” he urged, his voice a sultry whisper.

With one final flick of his tongue, he sent you crashing over the edge, your body exploding in a rush of pleasure that consumed you whole. The soft squelching sound of your pussy spurred him on and you came undone onto his mouth, You cried out his name, the sound echoing within the walls as waves of ecstasy washed over you.

Finally, he pulled back, his gaze locked onto yours, a satisfied smirk playing on his lips. “How was that for a surprise?”

You let out a soft laugh, still riding the waves of bliss. “You definitely outdid yourself.”

He leaned down, capturing your lips in a sweet kiss that tasted of you and him, a perfect blend of intimacy and warmth. “Just wait, we’re not done yet.”

He carried you into the bathroom, running a hot bath while he took a shower, and you giggled as you finished washing yourself, the two of you ran back to the bedroom and mad love all night long.

—————

#black!reader #black fanfiction #james st patrick #power #power fic #power starz #starz #black writer #omari hardwick #power book ii: ghost #notapradagurl7

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daneiarwrites · 2 months ago

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Missteps of Yesterday

Summary: Three sisters, the begrudged first born, Robyn, the impossibly perfect middle child, Madison, and the nomadic adopted baby sister, Javina, are living their normal lives when secrets of the past come back to haunt them, turning their lives together and separately upside down.

it's me and the face claims i couldn't choose against the world ⤵

robyn: bria henderson/julia pace mitchell ~ madison: teyonah parris/ashley blaine featherson/morgan alexandria ~ javina: geffrey maya/lovie simone/coco jones ~ david: aaron pierre/marque richardson/ray mitchell ~ malcolm: winston duke/isaiah mustafa ~ asaad: trevor jackson/martin bobb-semple/damson idris ~ kent: brandon p bell/omari hardwick

Word Count: 5.5k

CHAPTER RATING: MATURE (MINORS DNI, 18+)

*✧* enjoy *✧*

MADISON

The city's cacophony beneath the hotel window and Madison's chants of David's name filled her ears. The nailed oak of the five-star hotel bed frame didn't bang against the wall in time to his hips, but Madison's nails alternated between his back and the Frette sheets like she'd ascend somewhere astral if she let go. She squeezed her eyes shut, losing the deep mocha brown of his gaze in favor of the guttural moan she released. The tradeoff was worthy of either a categorical offense or verbal praise to whomever occupied the room next door. David swallowed her voice in a wet kiss.

As he sank deeper, his weight spread her thighs wide and she gasped at the stretch. The grunts he left on her lips matched the rhythm of her heartbeat as the couple ground together in desperate sex.

When David groaned loudly into the side of Madison's neck, fists clutching the pillows on either side of her head, she knew he was close. She locked her legs around his back and urged his undoing with whispered encouragement. Seconds after, she was dragging her nails down his back until the trembling in her thighs ceased.

David collapsed on top of her, and she welcomed the closeness. They'd needed it. Madison had hardly caught her breath before she was cupping his face in her hands and kissing him with so much intensity she debated another round. She moaned as he slowly sucked on her bottom lip, treasuring the seconds that were going by far too quickly. She caught a glimpse of the time on the digital clock, and pouted as she pulled away from David’s tempting warmth.

"We have to get going," she whispered as his mouth traveled down her chin.

"We still got time," he replied as he interlocked their hands, his lips’ descension threatening to endure the goosebumps on her skin. Madison willed herself to float back down to reality.

"Not if we hit traffic."

It was Sunday; the church-n-brunch rush would be excruciating. Madison knew getting back to their townhome would take an extra hour if they weren't careful. David sighed against her skin, and she could tell he was considering the inconvenience. "Fine," he relented and rolled off of her.

Madison kissed his cheek and then stiffly made her way out of the tangled sheets, and he chuckled at her careful steps toward the bathroom. "You good?" he asked.

Madison rolled her eyes and chuckled. A month without Yin yoga had her body tighter than usual. "Yeah, I'm good. I'm gonna take a shower."

"Cool."

She heard the T.V. click on and he called over a sports' broadcast rerun, "You know we don't have to check out till twelve, right? Wanna order some room service? They have those chocolate croissants you like."

"I don't think I should keep my folks waiting," Madison said as she stood in the mirror, wrapping dark twists into a bun atop her head. "We were supposed to get the kids last night."

"They said they didn't mind watching them for an extra day," David reminded, but she shook her head.

"I know, but if we don’t get there early, my mom will want us to stay for dinner, and I have to get some prep work done for clients tomorrow,” Madison said as she rummaged through her green sleepaway bag in search of another pair of panties. Coming up empty, she sighed, “Dammit.” Her and David’s impromptu romp after an early dinner at Steel Pier had cost her an extra shower and pair of Fenty. Those undergarments were flung somewhere in the room after they left the casino three hundred dollars richer and sensuous celebration was inevitable once the door closed.

Madison could just hear her wanderlusting younger cousin, Javina, reminding her, You can never pack too many panties. Usually Madison would regard the comment with a flippant hand, certain she was always prepared, but she was right this time.

David asked what was wrong, and Madison hung her head outside the doorframe and smirked at her husband. “I’m gonna have to go commando after our trysts all over the city. Thanks a lot.”

“Those first two were on you. It’s gonna be another one if you don’t stop looking at me like that.”

“I was just following doctor’s orders,” Madison shrugged and giggled. Quite literally, their therapist, Dr. Gina, recommended that they take a trip for a weekend.

“No kids, just you two. All work and no play is what lands you back in this situation. You two still deserve time to bond with each other,” she advised them.

Madison could admit that she and David were borderline workaholics. Becoming parents at twenty-two kicked their structural upbringings into high-gear. She soothed her mother’s disappointment by putting her Bachelor’s degree in finance to good use when Zoey turned six months. David made it his mission to prove he could still maintain his path toward government work while balancing new fatherhood.

Their early work ethic had created twenty-nine-year-olds who made tornado winds with how fast they moved about jobs, home, and jobs again. Dr. Gina made them realize their inability to commit to alone time outside of the house was taking a toll on the marriage. They finally buckled down and planned an eventful trip that included great food, cute photo booth pictures Madison couldn’t wait to frame, and enough fucking to make up for the next two months.

“Uh-huh,” David chuckled. “I’m not complaining. She was right. Shit, how much we were going, we might mess around and bring home a third Daniels.”

Madison’s grin wavered awkwardly, and she sighed. "Well, thank God we only have our two right now.”

"Thank God?"

Madison watched David’s face morph into confusion. She couldn't ignore the heat at the tips of her ears as she shifted her weight on her feet and remained silent. He wasn't letting her off the hook, though. "What's that supposed to mean?"

She ignored the urge to pause the conversation until she finished showering, because she knew once something hit David’s ear just right, his tendency to complete their talk would outweigh her need for space and brief avoidance.

“Dr. Gina said we shouldn't be talking about that on this trip."

"That was only a suggestion," David grumbled from the bed. "We can talk about anything we want to talk about."

Madison exhaled. Yes, future family planning had been a topic of discussion in and out of Dr. Gina’s office, but part of their homework this time was to avoid topics of stress, and use the trip to get reacquainted with fun. Talking about having another baby made her blood pressure spike.

Madison looked at her husband, whose expression was far from the ecstasy she'd seen on it only minutes before. She probably didn't look much different. She replied, "Well...I told you I didn't want to talk about that this weekend."

"Why not?" David swung his legs over the side of the bed. Leaning his weight onto his knees, he stared at her. "I can't get you to talk about it at home either, so when are we gonna talk about it?"

Madison crossed her arms. "I'm not saying we aren't ever going to. But, I mean, damn, can Xavier get through Kindergarten first?"

"Last year, you said let's wait until he's in preschool. He graduated two weeks ago!"

"So? What's so wrong with waiting?"

"Nothing would be wrong if you didn't keep changing the damn goalpost, Madison."

"David-!" Madison closed her eyes and inhaled. This wasn’t supposed to be how the trip ended. They weren't supposed to be fighting. They looked even crazier doing it naked. They'd just spent three days at a sky-high hotel eating some of Jersey's finest cuisines. They went to a comedy show and even took a boat ride around the harbor, sipping champagne at sunset. It had been a perfect getaway, and then David had to sully it by mentioning the expansion of their family.

"I'm gonna go take a shower," she quietly repeated and retreated into the bathroom, silently brushing her teeth and taking a ten-minute shower.

Wiping the condensation from the mirror, she studied her reflection. As a wife, mother of two, a financial advisor at one of the largest national banking companies, with clear skin and an affinity for freshly done braids every four months, Madison wondered what was wrong with what they had now. Wasn't it enough? Maybe David didn't think she was enough. Maybe she was being crazy. Her friends and family always told her she worried too much.

Digging around her toiletry bag, she found her birth control case beneath a bottle of Aleve and facial wipes. After popping one into her mouth and guzzling it down with water from the faucet, Madison exited the bathroom, naked, sore, and ticked.

David was still propped up against the headboard. The frustrated line between his eyebrows were but a light indention, so Madison could tell he was no longer pissed, but his frown remained as he flipped through channels. She sat on the edge of the bed and moisturized without even opening her mouth to breathe. When she heard David sigh behind her and the volume on the T.V. decrease, she looked over her shoulder and regarded his solemn expression with patience.

"Hey, look. My bad. We don't have to end on this note,” he apologized and gestured for her to come to his arms. Madison smiled softly and climbed over to him. He pulled her to his chest. “You’re right, we can talk about it later. I want to go back to Dr. Gina with a good report. I need to tell her we had time to try out that new position. By the way, we’re doing that again whenever we get the chance.”

Madison laughed and lightly slapped his chest at the mention of position number nine on Allure’s latest issue.

“You’re laughing, but I’m serious,” he replied though he chuckled as well. “You’re a bomb ass woman and you puttin’ it down like that? You can’t expect me not to want to have a whole basketball team of babies with you.”

Madison cupped his cheek and rubbed the soft, shaved skin with her thumb. “I understand what you’re saying, and I know we need to talk about it. I just need a little more time, okay?”

David nodded and they kissed as a truce. He’d get his conversation and she’d get her time, but the tiny voice in the back of her mind wondered just how much more he was willing to sit for before he broke.

JAVINA

Javina studied herself in the front camera of her phone. Looking picturesque in Santorini-darkened skin, butterfly locs, and Valentino sunglasses, she pressed the Instagram LIVE button. She pretended to bother with her hair and checked her lipstick. Then, she popped back and gasped.

"Oh, my gosh, I didn't even realize I was recording!" she giggled. "Hey, my flight knights! As you can see, I'm at the airport." She flipped the screen to uphold a spacious airport decked out in the usual terminals and eateries. She put the camera back on herself. "I'm just getting back from Santorini, Greece and y'all? It was amazing! The ocean was crystal blue, and the food was so good! I’mma show y’all everywhere I went, but later 'cause I am tired, okay? This jet lag life is real. Y'all can see I still have my travel pillow on! I'm gonna head home and get some rest. Till then, bites and flights!"

Javina put on one more wide smile before shutting the LIVE off. Rolling her neck, she let it crack before shimmying her shoulders to let the release go throughout her entire body. She hadn't been lying about being tired. A fourteen-hour flight was so much on the body–she would need a spa day just to recover. She went to baggage claim and waited to see her cyan blue vintage suitcase. It was one of her most prized possessions and was featured in many of her Instagram reels and TikToks. As her stand-in travel buddy, she never felt too lonely on solo trips when she had that bag.

Her phone buzzed in her hand. It was a call from Lionel, her landlord, and she rolled her eyes. That man was constantly messaging about something; she needed to file a harassment claim. Javina ignored the notification and went to her Uber app to request a ride back to her Orlando apartment.

She'd only been gone for a week, but she was sure the first thing she'd be met with was the drooping and dramatic bodies of her Monstera plants. They were so needy and clearly too bougie to be watered by a DIY glass bottle method. She'd used a Sauvignon blanc bottle and everything! Javina would fuss as she tenderly took to their leaves and re-fed them. They'd listen to her sing an off-key Mariah Carey tune as she unpacked, and by morning, they'd be good as new.

When she saw her suitcase on the carousel, she snatched it before she could miss it-which had happened more times before than she was willing to count. Once, during one of her early traveling days, she'd shut out the sound of snickers as she scurried her bag for about half the carousel. Literally, not a single person came to her aid. All that after a bad trip in Canada made her want to run through a wall. But she'd learned her lesson; go for the bag before it passes you. Those two seconds after were a crucial line between expertise and embarrassment.

With her metaphorical security blanket in her clutch and an Uber ride on the way, she opened her group chat with her older sisters, Robyn and Madison.

Javina:

Made it back from Santorini! Y'all have to come with me next time 😍

Maddikins:

glad you made it back safe!

Javina:

How are my niece and nephew?

Maddikins:

Great and can't wait to see what gift you brought back for them lol

Javina:

I got them nothing! 😤 They should love me for me!

Maddikins:

LOL maybe when they're passed ten. Right now u r the rich auntie who flies to all the best places and brings back the coolest things

Javina:

FINE I'll keep that title

Rob-Rob:

Hey, happy you had a good time. Get to your place safe. You know those ride services are full of creeps

Javina:

I'll be fine

Neglectful glances upward as she preoccupied her attention with her phone led to a hard collision with something too soft to be a wall.

"I'm so sorry—,” Her eyes traveled up the forest green jacket sleeve and feathers of an angel wing tattoo peeking out the collar. Familiar chestnut-brown eyes looked back at her beneath a snapback brim. "Oh...shit–Asaad?"

"Hey..." He lowered a phone from his ear, his eyes widening like she was the last person he expected to see. "Hey, Veen."

"Hey."

His eyes swept over her and he gestured toward her. "Long time no see-,"

Javina scoffed and affably shook her head. "Oh, cut the crap, Asaad. We slept together two months ago."

He told the person on the other line he would call them back and tucked the phone in his pocket. "I know, but you made it clear that would be the last time, and we haven't spoken since then, so..." he shrugged. "What did you expect?"

"Not for you to look at me like a deer caught in headlights! Come here." She opened her arms, and he crossed the space to envelop her in his arms. After she'd hugged him long enough to get a whiff of his Tom Ford cologne, she gave him some distance back. "You heading in or heading out?

"Heading in. I have a couple of Miami clients."

Javina lifted a brow knowingly. "Didn't want to make the drive?"

"Hell nah."

They chuckled. Asaad never did like long car rides, even though a fourteen-hour road trip down the eastern coast wasn't long to Javina. She'd been on much longer drives before. She tapped his elbow with her French-tipped nails and said, "Well, I don't wanna hold you. It was nice seeing you."

"Yeah, you, too."

When he didn't stop looking at her, she awkwardly broke their gaze and said, "Yeah, well, uh...bye."

"Hey." His fingers touched her elbow this time. "If you're gonna be in the city for a bit...you wanna grab a bite of food or something? I have a car."

Javina expected to hear an answer as soon as her lips parted, but nothing came immediately. She rubbed them together and sighed. "I don't think that's a good idea."

She caught the crestfallen look on his face before it sharpened into casualness. "That's cool. Nice bumping into you—literally."

Javina snickered and let him walk off first in the opposite direction before she started moving again. Her stomach rumbled and tightened with nausea. Her heart cracked a little, too. She pulled the small water bottle they offered her on the plane and swallowed the remnants as her pace quickened. Her Uber driver wouldn't be there for another ten minutes, but she had to get outside for some fresh air.

She would not hyperventilate; for what? The chance encounter had gone as best as it could under the circumstances. All Asaad was, was a boy toy, someone to have a little fun with. She unsnapped the buckles of her olive green denim overalls and let the straps hang at her waist. There, she could move her shoulders, which meant she could expand her lungs, and then she could breathe better.

You're not trapped, you're okay. You just got off a fourteen hour plane ride! Don't let that ruffle you. Breathe. She followed her own orders and felt the brisk rhythm of her heart begin slowing.

Javina had her earphones on the entire ride back to her apartment, playing mindful meditation music to re-center. She was never this rude to drivers, not saying a word. She'd usually be the one sparking up a conversation, curious to what drew them to jobs in transportation or of their favorite places in the city. Nevertheless, the man behind the wheel couldn’t look more disinterested. She was grateful for that today. She traveled to get away from anxiety, not to crash-land into it as soon as she returned home.

When she saw the red brick of her apartment building getting closer, she sighed with relief. Finally, she could mind her plants, shower, and dive into her bed, the safety of her pillows like a siren song. The driver got her bag from the trunk and didn't smile when she thanked him. Instead, he grunted in response, "Have a good one," and was on his way.

Javina waited impatiently for the elevator to come down to the lobby and groaned loudly at the even longer journey up to the seventh floor. Her room was down the hall and to the immediate left. She liked being on the corner; guests hardly ever missed her room. There'd been a couple of too-much-fun-with-friends nights where she'd praised God the door was so close. Breaking the seal before you got home was always bad.

The reprieve on her face as she neared her safe space transformed into horror once she reached the door. A pale yellow piece of paper was taped at eye level.

An eviction notice.

ROBYN

Robyn checked the burgundy acrylic of her fingernail when she tapped the last computer key of the day. When no cracks were visible, she reminded herself not to vent her frustrations onto her devices. She checked the time on screen: six forty-five already. Late evenings weren't uncommon during the beginning of the school year, but her therapist advised that if she didn't start taking more time for herself, her body would shut down before her computer did.

But hell, Dr. Thea didn't know how much responsibility a magnet school required–or how expensive rent had gotten in Baltimore. Robyn's two-bedroom apartment wouldn't stand a chance with the average eight-hour shift as a program coordinator, so her therapist would have to understand that the extra pocket money she earned working past her four-thirty stop time would have to be an exception.

Robyn packed up her work bag and stretched so far back in her chair that it creaked. She'd have to request a new one soon–having back problems at thirty-three sounded like another expense she didn't have the funds to cover. She rifled through her desk drawer for a Tylenol and popped it into her mouth. Finally, switching off her lamp, she welcomed the chemical smell of freshly mopped hallways as she exited her office.

Passing by the Vice Principal's office, she was surprised to see Darius still at his desk. Usually, he'd be the one knocking on Robyn's door and telling her to go home. But, instead, he looked hard at work on something, the wrinkles on his forehead a telltale sign that the was there much longer than he would've liked. Robyn rapped her knuckles on the door.

"Hey, Darius, you're still here? I thought you would've left before me."

Without looking up from his computer, he responded, "Hey, Rob. Yeah, I know. I got this file on a kid with behavioral issues. His parents insist he'll do better at a magnet school. Not too sure about it."

Robyn walked inside and to his side, peering down at a manila folder and several documents. "What type of behavioral problems?"

Leaning his chin on an open palm, Darius said through his hand, "Oh, the usual types we don't accept–fighting, cursing, talking back to teachers. But the parents think he just needs a creative outlet. Says he loves to write poetry."

Robyn's eyebrows ticked. She firmly believed all children needed were hugs and space for creativity to thrive. However, Darius didn't look convinced by that principle. He scratched at the graying coils near his hairline and Robyn urged him to speak. "But...?"

"Rob, he's been suspended twice. It's too much trouble."

She frowned at her work friend. "You and I both know what the alternative is." Juvenile detention centers only made children worse, and they’d had too many lunches discussing the potential benefits of proper care for troubled children to throw him to the wolves.

"He threw a brick at a teacher during recess! We can't have that here...no..." Darius looked genuinely frustrated about the situation, so Robyn wouldn't have to get on him for not thinking it through. But still.

"Well, if you already have your vote about him being here, why are you working on his file at—" she glanced at her watch, "—almost seven at night?"

Darius looked at her for a second and shook his head. "Needed something to do, I guess. I'm closing out now, though. You wanna grab a quick drink?"

"Sorry, can't tonight. It's Wednesday, so–,”

"Oh, that's right. Salsa today?"

"Zumba. I'm actually running late so I have to go. Promise you'll leave before seven; Tim will kick your ass if you miss his jambalaya night—again."

Darius' husband was known for his twice-a-month dinners, and Robyn had visited their home several times to attend. A news producer for a regional media publication, Tim was able to conjure deals from journalists and directors with his famous jambalaya or seared salmon. Darius secretly hated the ones Tim hosted during the week and would purposely work late to avoid them when he didn't feel like fake smiling at strangers for three hours.

"Eh, it's just some of his family coming by this time," Darius reasoned. "You know how that can be."

"Don't I," Robyn muttered.

"But are you sure about that drink?" Darius asked, one eyebrow pushing up his forehead in concern. "I know today is—"

"I'm good, Darius. Thanks." Robyn touched his shoulder to reassure him and told him goodnight.

The ignition on her 2011 Honda Civic roared to life alongside the bright orange engine warning symbol. Robyn made a mental note to get her car checked the following weekend and pulled out of the school's parking lot.

She switched her music to the jazz station, a momentary escape from the non-stop train ride she called a mind. The smooth wail of a saxophone accompanied her thoughts as she drove through the city, spotting the homeless people stationed near the new CVS. She passed a cop car and knew the front step of the convenience store wouldn't be crowded for long. She'd lived in Baltimore for nearly seven years and was glad to see the progress in upkeep by the city council. If only they had the power to lessen the rent and gas prices.

Robyn paused her car at a red light, the intersection leading either to the gym or her apartment. She gnawed at her bottom lip. Her gym and dance buddy, Melissa, would be expecting her, but Robyn had had a very long day.

Principal Stewart was on her ass about prepping for the December standardized testing despite it only being October and one of the younger students got sick right in front of her on their way to recess.

She had to prepare for a teacher training being held the following week, and was responsible for the wellness of the sixth-grade teaching staff. She did her due diligence by taking department training outside of school to ensure she knew everything they were supposed to know. Tuesday wasn't even here yet.

Ugh, I earned a break. "Siri, text Melissa: Sorry, I can’t make it tonight." The message sent at the same time the light flashed green and Robyn made a scratchy left toward her home in the Meadows, a dazzling suburban community that was the perfect amount of quiet. The noisiness of school was always forgotten the moment she entered her condo.

While in the shower so long that the steaming water had cooled, Robyn's phone dinged, interrupting the R&B playlist she had going. She saw the screen light up through the glass shower door–a text message.

Damn, do people know what time it is? Text messages at nine at night were a no-no, and she often made it clear to anyone in her circle that her texting schedule began at seven a.m. and ended promptly by eight p.m.

Nevertheless, she was interested to see who'd broken her rule. She switched off the shower and stood naked in front of the mirror as she swiped the condensation from her phone screen. It was her sister, Madison, who certainly was aware she hated responding to late-night messages.

Madison

I know it's late sis, but could you give me a quick call if you're not busy?

Robyn bit her lip and sighed. Madison didn't usually request late night calls, seemingly the only person who actually respected her “I don’t feel like talking now” rule, so Robyn would let her off the hook this time.

Robyn

Call you in a sec, just hopping out the shower.

Pulling on a fresh tank top and one-day-worn pajama bottoms, Robyn microwaved some frozen lasagna and poured herself a glass of wine. She sighed as she tucked one leg beneath her bottom and settled on the couch. Her Empire re-binge would have to wait, but she could spare a few minutes. Maybe Madison would have some amusing tale of the day about one of her fifty-leven children that would make her laugh.

Fighting the urge to bite into the still too-hot meal, she pressed Madison's contact to talk to her while it cooled. Her younger sister picked up on the fifth ring, sounding like she just ran a mile. "Hey sis!"

"Hey. What did you do, just run down the stairs?"

Madison laughed. "Actually, yeah. Xavier was being fussy and didn't want to go to sleep right until you called."

"Where's David? He couldn't help put him down tonight?"

"He's reading Zoey a bedtime story, and before you say anything, yes, we know nine-fifteen is late for a six-year-old."

"Hey now, I didn't judge you this time." Robyn's stomach growled, and the aroma of her dish was too enticing to ignore anymore. She picked it up and sliced a forkful. "So, what's up? You know my cut-off time is eight."

"Yeah, I know. Sorry." Madison's voice sounded far away, like she almost forgot why she was calling. "I...I also was talking to Javina earlier and...never mind. Anyway, I didn't have a chance to call earlier. I actually wanted to talk about David."

Oh, Madison calling about her problems again. Typical, but as the eldest, Robyn was used to it. Forever designated to having all the answers and invisibility. Since Madison hadn't coughed up any information on Javina, Robyn didn't push the subject. She didn't really care to either. Drama tended to follow Javina everywhere she went, even when she wasn't looking for it. Robyn's day had been too long to entertain their cousin's inevitable mishaps. Deadpanned, she asked between bites, "What happened?"

"Nothing happened, per se... it's just...he keeps bringing up the kid thing."

Robyn frowned. "So?"

"Well, we got into it a little bit this morning–,”

"Wait, weren't you guys on a trip this weekend?"

"Yeah..." Madison admitted.

"So you picked a fight on a trip?"

Madison groaned on the other end. "Robyn, listen. I just need some advice; I don't know what to do. He wants more kids now and I'm still not ready."

"Well, if you know that, why are you telling me and not him?" Robyn took another bite. "Sounds to me like y'all just need to have another conversation."

"I don't know if I can change his mind about this. Both of our families are waiting for a new addition because that's what we told them we wanted."

"Then stop lying to yourself."

"I'm not lying to myself!" Madison paused on the other line, and when she returned, her voice was quieter. "This is just hard to navigate, okay?"

Robyn asked, "Have you talked to Mom about it again? She'll have better advice than me."

Madison scoffed. "Hell no. You know she's on David's side. When we checked in on the kids she literally said, and I quote, I can't wait for another little one to look after, and then gave me that face. You know the one she does when she's trying to make a point on the sly."

Robyn did know that face. She tittered despite herself. "Well, you know how much they love to see their only grandchildren. They'd have ten more if it was up to them." She couldn't help but emphasize 'only' like their mother had done so many times before. Retta Moore-Jensen was like a broken record, repeating the same things over and over until you physically removed the disc from the player, i.e. created distance.

"I know...but...shouldn't they just be happy with the ones they have?" Madison wondered.

Robyn chuckled and went for her wine. "I won't speak for our parents, but you need to make a decision. You've been talking about this for almost two years now." Didn't Madison know everyone didn't always like talking about babies? Shit, Robyn would take her rambling about some new autobiography she read over hearing about her and David's children issues.

"I know, I know. You always give me this spiel," Madison said.

"And have a conversation with Mom and Dad, too. You're almost thirty, Mads—they don't control your life."

Madison groaned on the other end. "You don't even talk to them that much...I don't know why you're always begging me, too."

"I do not beg you to talk to them."

"Yeah, you do," Madison said matter-of-factly and Robyn rolled her eyes.

"Whatever. All I'm saying is, you're making this out to be worse than what it is. Talk to David—he can't force you to do anything you don't wanna do and he knows that. And tell Mom to get off your back. I did, and the woman is still standing tall."

Madison scoffed. "I can't tell her that. I'm not mean like you."

The wine glass in Robyn's hand halted before it touched her lips. "Standing up for myself does not make me 'mean,' Madison. You'd know that if you ever tried."

There was a pause on the other end, some ruffling, and then Madison's exasperated exhale.

"Goodnight, Rob. Thanks for the talk," she said and hung up the phone. Robyn stared at the screen before sighing and setting the device on the coffee table.

She didn't always get her sister. Madison had been a worrisome little thing ever since they were children, concerned over anything that didn't fit or make sense. She'd been with David since she graduated college, and Robyn thought it was weird that she didn't always seem to trust him. To Robyn's knowledge and from her sister's mouth, he was a step below incredible, the tiny fraction of space left for typical human flaws.

Robyn exhaled and turned on the TV. She finished her meal with Lucious and Cookie filling in the silence of her apartment.

Her divorce from Kent had been one year ago from today, but Madison didn't hear her making a fuss about it.

*✧*

Thanks for reading :)

(A/N: My Wattpad is updated to six chapters, however I’m doing rewrites for each one and posting them here. Jump ahead over there if you wish!)