#honeyff

[miyuhpapayuh]

Good o'l southern charm.

Nice to meet ya

Back at the office

We're goin' out tonight

Butterflies

Lovers and friends

[miyuhpapayuh]

we're goin' out tonight.

Sitting inside of the ever bright lounge area of Tropic, the pair ogle at each other from across the table.

Both equally surprised on how good the other looks, outside of work.

“You look really pretty this evening.” Isaiah breaks the anxiety-driven silence, Mya’s brown eyes lift towards him.

“Thank you. You look really handsome, yourself.” She replies, smoothing her clammy hands over her dress.

With autumn quickly approaching and the sun's warmth wearing off, Mya decided to wear her favorite mustard toned mini dress, one last time.

Coincidentally, Isaiah's button down almost matched the color of her hair, but on a toned down level.

“Thank you for the flower, by the way.” She says as she fiddles with the orange tulip in her lap.

“My pleasure. I didn’t know if you liked tulips or not.”

“They’re actually my favorite flower, so you’re doing great,” she laughs.

His brows raise. “Are they really?”

“Yeah!” she exclaims, feeling her nerves subside, just enough for her to relax. “I’ve loved ‘em ever since I was a kid.”

“Mind if I pat myself on the back?” He jokes, his infectious smile coming out to play.

She giggles, sipping on her spiked lemonade.

“So, tell me about yourself, Isaiah.”

“What do you wanna know, Miss Mya?”

“I’ll take anything you’re willing to share with me.” She truthfully responds.

“Well,” he clears his throat, “I’ve been here for almost ten years. I moved to Charlotte for a job opportunity, but I didn’t end up getting it. So, I slept on my cousin’s couch, until I found an apartment and a new plan,” he laughs to himself, “and I landed in front of Abstraction. Place is really cool, I’ll admit.”

“Yeah, it is. Do you mind me asking how rough it was to go through that? Especially not having a place of your own?”

“It was hell, man. Absolutely. I felt like I was starting all over, again. But, I grew up in a home where you had to fight for what you wanted, so I did just that.” He smiles, but she can see the pain flicker in his eyes.

“Well, I’m glad you made it out of that. That says a lot about your character.”

“Good things?” He asks with a grin.

“Good things, yes.” She mirrors his expression.

His eyes wander around the wide area, internally grateful that the place was as great as he heard it would be.

“This place is a whole lot nicer than I thought it would be,” he remarks, drinking his own bourbon sour.

“I was just about to say, this place is so cute! They’ve even got a disco ball out there.” She points towards the dance floor.

“Let’s get out there and dance, at some point. Yeah?”

Feeling the butterflies come back, she chews on her lip.

“Yeah. I’d like that.”

“Me too.” He smiles.

“Now, it’s your turn. What do I get to know about you, besides the fact that you’re as pretty as you are?” He leans forward.

“I think your mission is to make my cheeks fall by the end of this date. Cut it out,” she laughs.

Holding a hand up in defeat, he bows out. “I quit, but I'm listening.”

“Well, I’m as boring as they come. Honestly. I’ve got an older sister. She’s a pain in the ass, but the girl can cook like our grandma, so we keep her around.”

Isaiah laughs, making Mya do the same.

“Seriously! I wanna kill her, sometimes… but then she makes apple pie and I like her again. Siblings are weird. Do you have any?”

“Two. Older sister and younger brother. Both, equally a pain in my ass, as well.”

“Oh, not the middle child!” she frowns, coyly reaching across the table for his hand. “Please don’t tell me that you guys actually get overlooked.”

“No, we don’t get overlooked,” he covers her hand with his own, patting the back of it. “If anything, we’d be the ones that you remember more.” His eyes flash to hers

Her heart thuds in her chest as she reaches for her drink, taking another sip.

“But, back to you. I’ve always been curious about something, but I don’t know how to ask you without it sounding… invasive.”

“Try me.”

“How often do you change the color of your hair?”

“That’s actually one of my favorite questions to answer,” she claps her hands, “I’m a situational type of person, when it comes to dying my hair.”

“Meaning?”

“I either need a reason to dye it or I’ll just dye it for no reason at all, other than the fact that I’m bored. It’s not like every four months or anything healthy. It’s more like every other month.” He nods at her explanation.

“How long does it take you?”

“It depends on what color I’m dying it.” She giggles.

“If you were dying it purple?” He quizzes.

“Oh! Let’s see,” she stares up at the starred ceiling, her thoughts aligning. “Since my hair is red, I could probably get away with just dumping purple dye on top of it, with some assistance of course. It’ll take me, maybe, an hour or so.”

“Impressive. What about green?”

“You know, I’ve never tried anything that wild, besides pink and that ended in a catastrophe. I wore scarves for two months.” She shakes her head.

“I’m sure it still looked great.”

“No, it was really bad. Mercedes and Taylor gave me hell for weeks!”

“Friends,” he sighs. “They push those buttons, like no one else.”

“Make you wanna commit crimes,”

His laugh rang through her ears at a louder level. “You wanna do jail time?”

“My motto is no face, no case. If they can’t identify me, they can’t catch me.” She shrugs.

Amused, he takes another swig of his drink. “That’s funny.”

“Thank you. I keep my comedic card on standby,” she jokes, twiddling her thumbs underneath the table.

“So, you got friends that get on your nerves, too, huh?” She asks.

“Oh, yeah,” he nods. “Jane— you know her, right?”

“Short hair? Nose ring? Very sarcastic?”

“Yeah, that’s her,” he grins, “she’s a handful. But, she was the first person that I met, when I got to Abstraction. She, very roughly, took me under her wing and we’ve been cool, ever since.”

“She’s very sweet, but she don’t take no shit.” She laughs, him agreeing all the same.

“That’s why I stick by her. Don’t get me wrong, I can handle my own, but it’s funny when you’ve got a mini fighter tryna handle it for you.”

“She fights you too, doesn’t she?”

“She fights everyone.” He stresses, making her laugh, once more.

“A brash friend is needed, ya know?”

“I’ll drink to that.”

He holds his glass up, as she does the same. The cliché clinking of their glasses makes her giddy, as well as the alcohol that’s flowing through her bloodstream.

“I’m such a lightweight, I should probably stop now.” She says, finishing off her drink. He gives her an incredulous look as she does so.

Reaching out for her hand as he stands from the table, Isaiah leads her down the short steps to the dance floor.

“Let's go dance, pretty.”

Jonz in my bonz by D’Angelo is the soundtrack to their first dance.

“Man, I ain’t heard this song in years,” he remarks, Wrapping his arm around her waist.

“I actually just added this to my playlist, a few days ago.” She rests her hands on his broad shoulders, fighting the urge to squeeze.

“A woman with taste! How refreshing.”

The sultry beat captures their hips, pulling them closer to one another.

She hums in response, her eyes linger on his face. “I’ve wanted to tell you this, since the day you saved me from falling on my face… you smell so good.”

Looking down at her, his grin spreads across his cheeks. “Thank you,” he leans down to her ear, talking over the music, “you always smell good.”

A chill rushes up her spine at him being so close to her, all the while giving her compliments. 

“Always?”

Still close to her ear, he continues to speak. “Yeah… kinda smells like sandalwood.”

“It is!” she playfully hits his chest, slyly copping a feel of how hard it is. “You’ve got a good nose on you, sir.”

He hums a laugh, returning to his upright position.

What I wouldn't do to get next to the things that were meant fo’ me..

Getting completely lost in the music, Isaiah's hands sit dangerously low on his backside, seconds away from copping a feel of his own.

Their eyes on each other, as they continue to sway.

The song fades into another smooth jam, giving him the courage to spin her around in his hold, smiling at her rosy cheeks.

“Havin’ fun?” He asks.

“So much fun,” she hums. “I hope you are, too.”

“Most fun I’ve had in a while.”

“A while? We gotta get you out, more.” She states.

“Yes ma’am.” He agrees.

Continuing to dance the evening away, the pair end up back at her doorstep.

“I had fun tonight.”

“Yeah, me too.”

Their fingers intertwined, the smiles on their faces are both pure, and slightly blitzed.

“Thank you, again, for allowing me to show you a good time.”

“Of course. It’s been a minute since I let my hair down.” She giggles.

“Let’s do it again, some time?”

She nods, her eyes falling to his lips.

“I’d like that.”

Having the same thought on his brain, he leans down to press his lips against hers.

A wave of relief washing over him as she kisses him back.

Mya innocently leans into him as he takes her breath away, almost pouting as he begins to pull away.

“I’m not gonna lie… I’ve been wanting to do that, since the first day I saw you.” Isaiah admits, their eyes back on each other.

“I’ve wanted you to do that, since the first day I saw you.” She breathily laughs.

Unlocking her door, they share one more kiss before departing for the evening.

“Goodnight, pretty.”

“Goodnight, pretty.”

Finally able to let out her squeal behind the closed door, she rushes to call her friends.

As the call connects, the three friends begin to greet one another, as if they haven’t seen each other in ages.

“How was your date with mister swole arms?” Taylor asks as Mercedes snickers.

“You two,” she shakes her head. “The date was great. He was such a gentleman, ugh! The drinks were great, the music was great, and he was great. I’ve never had a conversation with a man that didn’t end in me throwing a drink in his face.”

“Girl, we’ve all been there!” Mercedes laughs.

“What did y’all talk about?”

“Things.” She smirks.

“Like???” They ask in unison, making her laugh.

“Ya know, we just talked about any and everything, honestly. He’s very intelligent, and I’ve known that from working alongside him, but to just sit and listen to him was amazing.” She smiles, like she’s still on their date.

“Ew, you’re blushing!”

“You look flustered, as well. Care to tell us why?”

“We kissed.”

Their jaws drop collectively.

“That’s why you're smiling like that!” Taylor laughs.

“That god of a man put his lips on you???” Mercedes asks, her eyes wide.

She nods, the smirk never leaving her lips.

“Were they soft?” Taylor asks.

“Mmhm. Rose petal soft.”

“Mm!” Taylor exclaims.

“Was there tongue involved??” Mercedes asks.

“It was our first date, girl! No, there was no tongue.” 

Her incredulous expression didn’t sway her brash best friend from being any less than such.

“You know you wanted him to tongue you down, shut up!” Taylor laughs.

“That’s besides the point,” she playfully rolls her eyes. “If y’all are done, I’d like to get in my bed now.”

“Ooh, testy!”

“We just wanted to see how you and strong arms hit it off, heffa. We’ll get out of your hair.”

“I’ll catch up with y’all, tomorrow.”

They say their goodbyes and Mya slips out of her dress and pulls on her pjs, face planting into her soft sheets.

A notification hits her phone, causing her to lift her head up and check it.

Taylor 🤎

Have sweet dreams about ol broad arms for us! Goodnight 😂

☆: .☽ . :☆ﾟ.☆:☆: .☽ .☆: .☽ · 。ﾟ☆: .☽ . :☆ﾟ☆: .☽ . :☆

“So, how was the date?” Jane asks, spinning around in Isaiah's office chair, while he stands a foot away from her, shaking his head.

“Jane. Get out of my chair.”

“I don't wanna! Tell me about your pretty girlfriend!” She faux whines, bringing her spinning to a stop.

“Quit being a child, please. I’ll tell you about the date if you just get up.” He repeats.

Huffing, she stands to her feet and moves away from the comfy computer chair, to the blue club chair on the other side of the desk.

“I leave for one second and you start treatin’ my chair like a damn merry-go-round, Jane? Really?” The annoyed crease in his forehead makes her laugh.

“It’s not broken, Isaiah.”

“That’s not the point, Jane.”

“Okay!” she sighs. “ Are you gonna tell me what happened now or are you gonna continue being dramatic over a chair?”

“I got a mind to kick you out, but I’ll refrain.” He briefly closes his eyes, before proceeding with the much awaited news.

“Let’s see, after I left your house, I went to Fannah’s Florals and bought a tulip— turns out, they’re her favorite flower. I know, I’m good. Uh…” Jane bursts into laughter, undoubtedly making him join.

“You’re hilarious, man!” She giggles.

“I did good, though, Doe! Gimme my props.”

“You did good, bud. You did good.”

“Thank you!” he laughs. “We went to Tropic, it was very nice. The music was great, the drinks were great and man…she looked amazing.” He sighs, going into a dreamy tangent.

“Yeah?” Jane cheeses, sitting her chin in her palms. “What did she wear?”

“She had on this mini dress, it was kinda orange and yellow, at the same time.”

“That’s what the kids call mustard.”

“Maybe, honey mustard. But, it looked beautiful on her, nonetheless.” He digresses. “Her hair was all done up.”

“Did she think you looked as dreamy as you thought she looked?”

“I don’t know if dreamy is the word, but she said I looked handsome. So, you did good, friend.”

She bows from her seated position, making him chuckle and shake his head.

“Yay! So, was the conversation good?”

“It was. We’ve had brief conversations in passing, so I’ve always kind of known this about her, but she’s sweet. I just felt comfortable enough to tell her anything. We related on a couple of things, which made it even easier, cause my nerves were shot.”

“I’ve never seen you that nervous, before.” Jane agrees.

“It normally doesn’t happen.”

“You really like her!” She coos, the urge to throw her out comes back, tenfold.

Sighing, he smiles. “Yeah, she’s great. We danced for what seemed like an eternity. Just lost in the moment.. her scent is still fresh in my brain.” He laughs to himself.

“She seems like a vanilla kinda girl.” Jane comments.

He shakes his head. “Sandalwood.”

Her brows raise. “Ooh, the good shit!”

“Indeed.”

“She’s got good taste.”

“I remember telling her that, at least twice, last night.”

“How’d you bring the evening to a close?” She asks.

“I walked her to her door, we agreed to go out again, and I kissed her, goodnight.” He casually says.

Jane’s eyes grow wide. “You kissed her?? Oh my gosh! How’d that happen?”

“It honestly just happened,” he laughs. “I could tell that she was thinking about it as much as I was, and I went with my gut, and there we were.”

“Well, gimme the juicy details!”

“It wasn’t that kind of kiss, doe. It was sweet and simple. Gentle, even. She’s got soft lips.”

“When’s the wedding?”

“Get out,” he points towards the door, causing her obnoxious laugh to ring out, yet again.

Bumping into one another in the common area, Isaiah and Mya shyly glance at each other.

“Hey, pretty.” He greets.

“Hey,” she waves, smiling. “How are you?”

“Better, now.”

“Is that so?”

“Yeah, you got a way of brightenin’ up the room when you step in.” He admits, stuffing his hands in his pockets.

“You’re a very sweet man.”

“And, you’re a very sweet woman.”

“So,” she begins, tossing her coffee cup in the trash. “I was thinking that I could plan our next date.”

“Yeah?” amusement colors his tone. “What did you have in mind?”

“Well, it’s a surprise—- which is code for, I haven’t figured it all out yet.”

They share a laugh.

“You’re funny.” He compliments.

“I’ve been told.” Their eyes linger on each other, an awkward sway taking over their bones.

“I know this ain’t the most appropriate time… but I feel like kissing you, again.” He admits.

Her palms turn sweaty at his confession. “Well, I can um,” she leans in to kiss his cheek.

“Just cause this ain’t the most appropriate time.” She responds. “Catch me a little later, though.”  A grin takes over his lips.

His brows slightly raise. “A little later, it is.”

Sitting around the round table, a select group of computer techs, including Isaiah and his smitten coworker, sit with Savannah for a meeting.

“Alright, so I’ve brought y’all here, because our annual Creative Edge seminar is coming up and y’all have been invited to attend the Gold Ball!” she excitedly grabs the stack of golden envelopes from her binder.

“What?”

“Really??”

“Thee Gold Ball??”

“Yeah!” Savannah laughs, holding up the envelopes. “I got ‘em all right here!”

“Oh my gosh,” Mya cups her face in shock.

“Hard work does pay off,” Isaiah hums to himself. The creative kid inside of him, jumping for joy.

Everyone opens their official invitation, as Savannah begins to give them the details.

“I’m very proud of you guys. You’ve all worked very hard to get here.” She smiles at the group, while they continue to process the news.

“The seminar is November the fifteenth and the sixteenth, and the Gold Ball is that night. The times are posted on the invitation, as well as the dress code for the ball. Focus on networking and getting your name out there, the rest will fall into place. More importantly, have fun. You guys deserve this.”

“Thank you!” the group graciously responds.

As the meeting ends and the small group files out, Mya stays behind to continue staring at her future in the form of a pretty white and gold letter.

“Wow,” she mumbles to herself.

“You didn’t think you’d get invited, either, huh?” Isaiah heads back to the table.

She briefly looks up at him, before looking back to the letter. “If I’m being honest. Not a chance.” She laughs.

“Why not?” He asks, sitting back down.

“Because.” She sighs. “This ball is for people that do more than just color code a system and make pretty signs.”

“That’s not all you do.” He says.

“And, how do you know that?”

“Because, you’re not the only one that leaves his work up on the computer.” He chuckles.

“Oh… I did?” She asks, embarrassment seeping into her tone.

“You did,” he gives a small smile.

"And your work is amazing, Mya. I feel like you know that, but you second guess yourself.”

“Hmph. I think you’re in the wrong field, ‘saiah. You sound like a therapist.” She cracks.

“I just want you to know that you deserve this. Maybe more than the rest of us.” His eyes wander over her face, a slight somber taking over her eyes as they connect to his.

“Thank you. But, I think that it’s you that deserves this more than the rest of us.” She smiles.

“I appreciate it.” He stands from his seat, once again. “I have to get back to my paperwork, but I’ll see you later, okay?”

She nods, her smile easing him.

“Alright.” Tapping the table, he heads out of the conference room.

Turning her attention back to the letter in her hand, she smiles.

“I deserve this.”

[miyuhpapayuh]

back at the office.

“Well, at least you two are on a first name basis, now. Improvement!” Mercedes pokes Mya in her side. She swats at her friend’s hand in feigned annoyance.

The pair are seated on a park bench across from the office, munching on fruit before they have to clock in for the day.

“Girl, gon’ somewhere,” she says with a laugh, “We work together and that’s about it. He’s probably not even from here!” The aloof tone of her voice betrays her actual feelings.

“Ma’am, that accent is thicker than chunky peanut butter out the freezer. Of course he’s from here. Or at least near here! Plus, I seen him at the poetry spot downtown, he could be pretty decent,” she says casually, while chomping on a chunk of watermelon.

“And just what the hell are you doing at a poetry spot? Last book you read had a big cat on the front,” Mya jabs at her friend.

“First of all, fuck you,” she’s interrupted by Mya’s snort of a laugh. “Second of all, didn’t I tell you? I met my new boo down there,” she finishes with a shimmy of the shoulders.

“How many felonies does this one have?”

“I’m gonna let that one go ‘cause I’m in a good mood. And if you quit being a punk, you can snag yourself a man, too.”

“I’m not a punk. I’m just not in the market for a man right now.” She shrugs as Mercedes rolls her eyes.

“Chile, a lie don’t care who tell it. Ray Charles can see you want his ass.”

Mya can’t contain the burst of laughter that leaves her lips.

“Why would you say that??”

“I'm just sayin’!” Mercedes continues through her own laughter.

“I’m not ‘bout to play with you today,” she dabs the tears that formed at the corners of her eyes. Glancing at her phone, she notices she’s dangerously close to being late.

“Oh shit,” she pops up from her seat grabbing her things, “Savannah’ll have our heads if we're late again.”

“Please, Savannah loves us. She’ll fire that shiftless ass Colin before she fires you,” Mercedes responds as she gathers her things at a more leisurely pace.

“Either way it goes, I’m not tryna make a habit outta being late.” She says, as they make their way inside.

“Nice of y'all to join us,” none other than Savannah herself greets them both just as they punch their timecard in the lounge.

“Hey auntie!” Mercedes cheeses, before heading out.

“So, what lil’ boy done caught your attention and got you showing up late now?” Her boss teases.

It never fails to surprise her how nothing gets past her boss, not that he was the reason for her tardiness.

“Nobody. Only thing that has my attention is work,” she lies casually, trying to breeze by her and back towards the lobby.

“Hmm. You sure it’s not that handsome young tender with the strong arms that’s always breakin’ his neck to catch a glimpse at you?”

Her ears perk up at the new piece of information, and she deftly pivots on her heels.

“He does?” she responds a little too earnestly for her own liking. Clearing an imaginary blockage from her throat, she adjusts her tone.

“He does?” She repeats, cooler this time, as she tucks a freshly straightened, cherry red tendril of hair behind her ear, a nervous tick.

“Mhm.” The all-knowing smirk on her boss’ full lips makes Mya’s cheeks redden even further.

“All the time. I’m surprised he hasn’t asked you out yet. Must be shy like you. Lord knows if I wasn’t married and old enough to be his mama…” she trails off.

As if her poor cheeks couldn’t get any rosier.

“Alright! I’m gonna start workin’ now.” She starts to back her way out of the hall toward the printer room to save herself further embarrassment.

“Hey! You're coding, for the next hour. Grab the big stack of card stock from the back to refresh your signs, before you get started.”

Grabbing her tools for the day, she heads to the big printer in the middle room, closing the door behind her.

She’d taken it upon herself to color code the system, helping everyone navigate through it just a little easier, as well as replacing the faded, white company signs with brighter, more colorful ones.

Pulling up her stool, she gets started.

A knock sounds at the door, before Isaiah steps inside, heading towards the supply closet.

“Mornin’, didn’t mean to interrupt,” coming out with a stack of copy paper in hand, he looks up to see the pretty brown girl with bright red hair that’s had mind jumbled for the last few weeks or so.

She looks up from the screen and smiles. “Mornin’,” she responds, “I’m knee-deep in this screen, I didn’t even hear you come in.”

“S’alright. Just came to refill the printer.” He replies, gesturing towards the big contraption she was currently sitting in front of.

“Oh! Let me move out of the way, sorry.” He chuckles, watching her grab her laptop and work on her feet, before he moves in to refill the tray.

“It’s alright. What you workin’ on, today?” He asks, printing a few documents.

“Coding the system to make it easier for everybody. Then, I’ve gotta redo the signs, out front. Savannah’s finally letting me loose in here.” She giggles, typing away on her keyboard with one hand.

Gathering his paper, he moves out of her way. “Sounds like a project. Can I see?”

“Sure!” She sits her laptop down and shows him the screen as she types away.

“Our plans are in green, projects are in pink and tasks are in blue, now. Holidays are highlighted, as well employee birthdays. Ooh! I really loved doing that, because I get to choose different colors for that, as well.”

He hums a laugh. “This your avenue, yeah? Projects?”

“Projects can be fun,” she turns toward him. “Imagine if she let you use photoshop on the ads that you create? It would take them to the next level!”

“You’ve seen one of the ads I’ve done in photoshop?” He asks.

“Mhm. It was up on the main computer, the other day. I didn’t know it was yours, until I saw the little eye you placed in the corner.”

“Yeah,” he laughs. “It’s like my watermark, for now.”

“It’s cute. But, your ad was nice!”

“I appreciate that. Especially, coming from you.” She blushes, as he heads toward the door.

“See you later?” He asks, hope burning behind his brown eyes.

“See you later.” She nods, mirroring his smile, before they get back to work.

About an hour and a half later, all ten of her fingers are cramped to hell and her back is killing her, but she’s finally finished with her project.

Closing the door behind her, she sighs and heads towards her own office, bumping into Savannah.

“Oh, Mya! The system is running so smooth, now! And the signs look wonderful!” She praises.

“Thank you! I’m always happy to help!”

“So am I.” She smiles.

“What do you mean?”

“I may have put a bug in someone’s ear about someone.. you can thank me, later, sweetheart.”

“A…what? Savannah, what are you talking about?”

“Your secret admirer is about to become not so secret, anymore.”

Her heart begins to beat triple time.

“Oh, God… I think I’m having a stroke.”

“Oh,” Savannah starts laughing. “You are too much, girl! Just relax! I know he’s pretty, but he’s a sweet man who’s sweet on you!”

Isaiah conveniently walks down the hall, his sight set out for Mya.

His eyes light up as he spots her talking to their boss.

“Afternoon, ladies.” He greets. “Can I steal Mya away?”

“As long as you give her back,” Savannah pats his shoulder, before heading back down the hall.

“Hey,” she waves, that intoxicating cologne of his hitting her nose.

“Hey,” he smiles, stuffing his hands in his pockets. “I was kinda hoping that you would join me for lunch.. that is, if you didn’t already have anything planned, of course.”

The corners of her mouth lift into a smile. “Well, seeing as we like the same kind of food, I would love to join you for lunch. Let me just grab my wallet.”

She moves for her office door, until he speaks, again. “I was actually hoping that I could buy your lunch, as well.”

“You’re doin’ a lot of hoping, today.” The smile never leaves her lips.

“Looks like I’m doing a whole lot scorin’ today, too.” He humbly brags.

“Does this work for you, often?”

“I don’t know. This is the first time I’ve tried.” He laughs.

They share a laugh. “Lead the way.”

☆: .☽ . :☆ﾟ.☆:☆: .☽ .☆: .☽ · 。ﾟ☆: .☽ . :☆ﾟ☆: .☽ . :☆

“So, where exactly are you from?” Mya asks, biting into her sandwich.

The pair had decided to head over to Panera for a quick lunch.

“I’m from Texas. Dallas, to be exact.” He replies.

“Ah. I told my friend that you weren’t from here, I knew it!” She giggles.

“How’d you tell?”

“Well, no offense… but, your accent is rather thick. They don’t really sound like that, down here, too fast.”

His smile takes over his entire face at her comment. “None taken. I’ve gotten that, a lot. I like the accents out here, though.”

“Well, at least y’all sound like you come from somewhere.” She rolls her eyes.

“What do you mean? You’re from here, ain’t you?”

“Yeah, but I don’t sound like it.” She frowns.

“Yes you do,” he snorts. “You got a lil twang.”

“You’re only sayin’ that.”

“Honest,” he holds his hands up. “You do. It’s subtle, but it’s there.” He assures.

“Really?” Her brows raise. He nods.

“Mhm. Don’t trip, pretty.” He says, popping a chip in his mouth. She blushes.

Catching the three minute warning on her phone, she begins to gather her trash.

“Almost time to head back?” He eyes her movement, reluctantly doing the same.

“Yeah,” she sighs, “rest of the day’s filled with paperwork.”

“Well, we can’t all be God’s favorite and color code the system in the mornings.” She laughs at the crack he takes at her.

“It’s not just about making it pretty, mister big  arms.” She playfully rolls her eyes.

“My broadness distractin’ you, little lady?” He asks, amusement coloring his tone.

Yes. God, yes.

“We should head back.” She stands up from the table to toss her trash. His eyes travel to her derrière.

“Mm.” He remarks to himself, standing from the table to throw his own trash away, before they head back to the office.

Making plans to catch back up once the day was finally over, Mya sinks down in her chair.

Her phone begins to ring.

“Hey, mama,” she answers, turning her laptop back on.

“Hey, baby. You alright?”

“Yeah, I’m just ready for the workday to end. It started pretty great, though.”

“Yeah? What’s going up at Vannah’s that’s got you in the good spirits, besides the angel, herself?” Her mother speaks fondly of her beloved boss.

“She’s finally taken me up on my offer to brighten up the place!,” she cheeses like her mother could see her face. “I started color coding the system to make everything easier to navigate, because it was starting to give me a migraine! Nothing on this earth should ever be that dull.”

Her mother laughs. “You are something else. But, that’s amazing, sweetheart. I always knew you’d be able to showcase your talents.”

“Thanks for always believing in me.”

“Always. Now, who’s this boy that Mercedes was goin’ on about?”

Sighing aloud, she sits up in her chair. “I gotta call you back. We’ll talk about it later, I promise.”

“Is she in trouble?”

“She’s about to be. Love you.”

“Love you too, baby. Bye bye.”

Hanging up, she quickly facetimes Mercedes. “Look, I know you and my mama are cool and all, but why would you tell her about Isaiah?”

“Girl, I honestly just told her that you got a crush on somebody, like you always do! And she was like “is he cute?” And I was like “do you know your daughter? The men are always fine!” And she laughed and that was that.” She shrugs.

“You two are gonna give me grey hair.” Mya shakes her head, beginning to type away at her keyboard.

“Now, I know you FaceTimed me to spill somethin’, so please get on with it.” Mercedes laughs. Her infectious laughter grows as Mya turns her attention back to her best friend.

“Ooh, I knew it!”

“Cedes, be quiet,” Mya giggles,” he asked me to join him for lunch and offered to pay for it! So, we went to Panera and talked. He’s from Texas, by the way.” Mercedes’ mouth falls open.

“I was wrong??”

“You were! I told you, too!” She whisper yells. “He’s from the south, but it ain’t here.”

“Well, I’ll be damned. So, you got you a Dallas cowboy, then, huh?” She says, the look on her face makes Mya wanna hang up on her.

“I really don’t like you.” She tries to hold back the smirk.

“It’s okay! Cause, I really love you!” She cheeses. “And, that’s cute, seriously. He bought you lunch and made you fall in love!”

“I’m not in love!” She laughs.

“What was in that sandwich? Bacon?”

“Mercedes.” Mya calls, it falls on deaf ears.

“That bacon must’ve been extra crispy.”

“It was. Goodbye.”

“Ride ‘em, cowgirl!”  She quickly hangs up, shaking her head.

“That girl is a mess.”

Grabbing her keys, she locks her office door behind herself and heads towards the front of the building to wait for Isaiah, like they’d planned.

“Yeah, she’s great.” He smiles, telling his friend and coworker, Jane, about Mya.

“I knew you two would hit it off. She’s been eyeing you for a while.”

“Well, she wasn’t alone.”

“Don’t I know it. You’ve talked my head about her for months, Isaiah.” She laughs, patting his shoulder.

“That’s what friends are for, right? Don’t I listen to you when you go on and on about uh, whatever his name is, this week?”

She rolls her eyes. “Tell your girlfriend to enjoy you, cause I’ll be killing you, soon.”

He laughs. “Don’t be me like that, Jane Doe. I’ll catch up with you later.” They hug and part ways.

He finds Mya with her head in her phone. He walks over, her eyes locking with his as he approaches her.

“Hey, pretty.” He greets, enjoying the view of her reddened cheeks as she twists her lips up.

“Hey, handsome.”

“Can I walk you to your car?” He offers.

“Sure.” She accepts, allowing him to lead the way, opening the door for her. She mentally checks manners off her list.

“Thank you, Isaiah.” She unlocks the driver side door.

“You’re more than welcome. Before I let you go, I’d like to ask you somethin’.”

She leans against the car door. “What’s up?”

“I been meanin’ to ask you, if you’d like to accompany me to this new spot, Friday?”

Completely taken aback that he was actually asking her out, her immediate yes jumped out, before she could contain herself. Their smiles are identical.

“I would love to. What kind of spot are we talkin’?”

“S’called Tropic. You know, one of those clubs with the disco lights, like we’re still in nineteen seventy-five and the drinks got them tiny umbrellas in ‘em.” He chuckles, rambling on as she dazedly stares at him.

“Sounds like fun.” She cheeses.

“It’s a date, then," grabbing her hand into his own, he softly caresses her skin. “I’m looking forward to it.”

“Me, too.” Her voice came out smaller than she liked. He doesn’t tease her about it. Kissing the back of her hand, he releases her. “I’ll see you tomorrow?”

“I’ll see you tomorrow.” She nods.

Waving goodbye, he heads to his own car, leaving her to slide inside of her own and squeal.

“A date?!”

[miyuhpapayuh]

butterflies.

After their close friends and family received the news about them being invited to the most anticipated event of the creative world, Mya, Isaiah and the rest of the group began planning for their awaited, highly anticipated trip.

The pair have also gotten closer over the last couple of weeks. Going out to dinner after work, drinks on the weekend, and her new favorite, sharing ice cream at Maggie's diner.

“Ooh!” 

Currently sifting through the dresses that her mama had sent her, she lands on a red hot number with a slit up the thigh.

“I don’t know what event mama thinks I’m goin’ to, but…” she trails off, laughing to herself.

Pulling it off the hanger, she lays it across her bed and begins to tug at the bottom of her shirt when her music abruptly cuts off, followed by the ringing of her phone.

Peering over at it on her dresser, she smiles. “Oh, boy.”

Answering the call, she watches his handsome face come into view. His wide smile showcases itself, almost mirroring hers.

“I’m starting to think you’re watching me,” she jokes, keeping the top of her head in view as she reaches for the dress.

“Why?” he asks.

“Because you always call me when I’m in the middle of something,” she laughs.

“What’s so important, this time?” he mocks as she laughs.

“My mom sent me a bunch of dresses to try on for this damn ball, and I’m about to lose my mind, because I can’t decide on one,”  she sighs.

“You need some help decidin’?” he asks, his chin in his palm as he stares at the partial view of her face and the ceiling.

“Uh…sure! Give me a second.” She moves away from the camera and begins to pull her shirt over her head, grabbing the dress and sliding into it.

“You cut my favorite song off this time. I just want you to know”, she grumbles, fidgeting with the dress.

“And what song was that?”

“I Think About Lovin’ You by Earth, Wind and Fire.”

“Hm. Don’t think I’ve ever heard it.”

“No worries. We’ll fix that,” she says, before picking her phone up from the dresser.

“Okay, you’ve fattened me up over the past couple of weeks, so don’t be too harsh.”

He chuckles. “I would never do such a thing.”

“Okay,” sitting it back down in an upright position, she pulls her hair away from her face and poses, “how do I look?”

“Wow,” his eyes wander over her curves, committing them to memory..

“You look so good.”

Her brows raise, the butterflies in her stomach doing somersaults.

“Really?”

“Absolutely,” he nods enthusiastically, making her cheese wide.

“Can I get a spin?” He asks, poking his lip out.

“I'll oblige you, this time.” She winks, taking her time twirling like a doll on display, giggling at his whistles.

“Damn girl,” he shakes his head.

“Alright, alright, let me go try on another one!” She says, moving out of frame to silently squeal and slip into another dress.

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After an hour and a half of making the object of her affection blush, Mya decides to have lunch with her mother at their favorite spot, Shoney’s.

As the chimes on the door ring, her mother looks up from her coffee and motions her over.

“Hey, baby.” She greets her daughter with a kiss on the cheek as she files into the booth seat, removing her jacket.

“Hey, ma. Man, it’s chilly out there today.”

“That’s why I texted you about a jacket even though you swear you don’t get cold.”

“Well, if I tell you that you’re right about me being cold, you’ll just gloat about it until you die so, no. I’m not cold.” She blinks.

“You are your father’s child.”

“That’s what the birth certificate says, yes.”

“Anyways, I brought you here to talk about all of your success, thus far. I’m very proud of you. How do you feel?”

A genuine smile spreads across her lips.

“Thank you! I’m so happy, honestly. I knew Savannah believed in me, but I won’t lie and say that I knew this was coming!”

“The Gold Ball is definitely a once in a lifetime experience, but you deserve it! You’ve been working hard for the past three years at Abstraction. It’s about time that your hard work paid off.” Her mother stresses.

“Yeah, I’ve heard that a couple of times. I believe it, I’m just still processing it all.”

“Well, good. Now, do I get to hear about this boy that’s got you all giggly, yet?”

 Mya sighs, knowing it was coming.

“All of a sudden, I’m hungry. I’ll be right back.” She gets up from the table and heads towards the buffet line to fill her empty stomach.

With her mother being the relentless soul that god put her on earth to be, she heads over and behind making her own plate, all the while poking for information.

“Oh, come on! I’ve been patient with you, Nicole.”

“Ma, not the middle name. Don’t be dramatic.”

“I’m not being dramatic. You’re holding out on me.”

“I just wanna eat, ma. Let me eat and then I’ll tell you. Okay?”

“Fine.”

Twenty minutes, an entire rundown and a full stomach later…

“He sounds like a good ol’ southern gentleman. Is he cute?”

“Ma,” Mya grabs her phone off the table and goes to his contact picture. “Cute isn’t an accurate description.”

Sharing the phone, her mother’s brows lift. “Oh, wow. He’s one beautiful man.”

“I know!” She agrees with her eyes closed, making her laugh.

“So, you really like this one?”

“I’m starting to, yeah! Besides him being pretty, he’s such a sweetheart and he’s a computer nerd like myself. What more could a girl ask for?”

“Babies.” She answers.

Mya almost chokes on air.

“Huh?!”

“What?? I’m not getting any younger.. neither are you.”

“I’m only twenty-seven. I’ve got time, and your first candidate for me shouldn’t be a man that I’ve only known for about a month! Relax a little, please.”

“Is he going to the seminar, as well?” She asks, completely ignoring her daughter.

“Yes.” She purses her lips together, not letting it slip that he was also invited to the Gold Ball, knowing her mother would just get amped up all over again.

“Well, you’ll have some eye candy while you listen to those white people tell you about success.” She snorts.

“And you said my father was harsh on white people,” Mya laughs. “I think you took it over, ma.”

“Your father is a fool.”

“That’s a conversation for another day.”

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“You guys!”

Taylor kisses Mercedes’ and Mya’s cheek before sitting in the available seat, slinging her jacket over the back of the chair.

“Usually, I’d say you’re being dramatic with the kisses and shit, but it has been a minute.” Mercedes comments, sipping on his long island iced tea.

“It really has! I missed y’all.” Mya chimes in.

“Mhm. You been all hugged up with strong arms. I might even be a little jealous.” Mercedes says, making Mya’s cheeks flush red.

“Jealous? I thought you and Mark were kickin’ it?”

Taylor snorts. “Mark was just that. He couldn’t even protect ya girl!”

“I missed something??” Mya asks, both of them nodding at her, quickly.

“Chy, how ‘bout we went to the movies, last weekend and this big mountain of a man gets in ol’ boy’s face, tryna check him on some I’m more of a man than you are type of shit and Mark just stood there. Now, you know me! I was like you ain’t gon check him?? He lookin’ at me like it was my fault, cause then they start goin’ at it and that big bitch started callin’ me out my name and the motherfucker still just stood there! Lookin’ like he was about to fuckin’ cry. So I left.”

Mya’s jaw was on the floor.

“You gotta be kidding me! Has he tried to contact you?”

“Several times!” Taylor laughs.

“It’s not funny, Tay! That shit was embarrassing.” Mercedes grumbles. “But, yeah, so I’m single again. Maybe, for a while longer cause that was just too much for me.”

“Man, I’m sorry I missed that. I’m sure you could’ve used an extra shoulder to lean on,” Mya frowns. “Maybe, an extra crowbar.” She cracks.

“Girl, you’re fine, I want you to enjoy all you can of ol’ thick neck. When do we officially get to meet him, by the way?”

“As soon as you can call him by his name.”

“We know his name, girl. Mister muscles!”

“You play too damn much, Cedes. But, uh… how about this weekend? We can all go out for drinks or something.” Mya suggests.

“Ooh! There’s a new spot, uptown!” Taylor snaps her fingers, trying to pull the name of the place out of thin air, “Flavor! It’s so cute. They got great food, an open bar,” she nudges Mercedes, “and a lil common area, if you wanna dance a little.”

“Sounds like the spot!”

“I’m down.”

“What time? Seven sound good?” Mya asks.

“Yeah, that should be fine.”

“I’m so excited to harass your man.” Mercedes rubs her hands together like Birdman.

“Two things. One, he’s not my man,”

“Yet,” they both chime in, cracking up.

“And, two!! Don’t embarrass me, please.”

“We would never,” Taylor smiles.

“Oh, boy.” She shakes her head.

“No, but seriously, how are things with him?”

“He’s so dreamy, you guys.” She gushes. “These last few weeks have been some of the best. We just sit and talk or we’ll go dancing or we’ll take a walk in the park or we go out to eat— did I mention that he’s fine!?”

“We’ve seen his hunky ass, girl!” Taylor nods. “That’s so cute! You deserve it, honestly.”

“Yeah, those duds you were runnin’ with, back in the day couldn’t even hold a candle to Isaiah.” She smirks.

“It’s so refreshing to hear you not call him swole arms.” She playfully rolls her eyes. “And thanks, girl. Them whores weren’t good for anything besides a dick drop off.” The trio crack up.

“Hell, at least they could do that right!”

“That, they did.” She snorts, the memories flooding back to her brain, making her shiver a little. “Whew!”

“You stupid, man.” Mercedes pokes her in her side. “But, you just tell swole arms that we don’t play bout our Mya paya, okay?”

“Got it.”

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Sitting across from one another in the dimly lit ice cream shoppe, the pair share a double scoop of vanilla and good conversation.

“They’re gonna tear me up, aren’t they?” He asks.

“I told them to behave, but Mercedes takes that as a challenge.” She shakes her head, eating a spoonful.

He laughs.

“Well, they’re just making sure you’re in good hands.”

“And, am I in good hands?” She questions.

“Like Allstate.” He says, making her giggle.

“I knew it was corny, but I like making you laugh.” He smiles.

“It was cute,” she laughs, eating another spoonful. “Like you.”

“Damn, that’s a bump down from pretty.” He frowns, pretends to be hurt.

“Aw,” she sits her spoon down and rubs the back of his hand. “You are pretty, 'saiah!”

“Mhm.” He plays with her fingers. “Not as pretty as you.”

“I don’t know,” their fingers intertwine, “I think you have me beat.”

“No, no. I’m only this pretty with some scruff on my face. You’d change your mind if you saw me without it.”

“Shut up,” she laughs, “you mean your beard?”

“It barely qualifies, since it's growing back in.”

“C’mere lemme get a better look.” She motions him towards her, so she can take a closer look at his handsome face.

She chances, softly gripping his chin, and turning his face in her hand to better inspect him.

“Looks good to me.”

“Yeah? Come a little closer.”

She obliges, chewing on her lip. Their faces are just a few inches away from each other. Squinting, she nods, grazing his “scruff” with her thumb.

“Still looks good to me.”

“Yeah?”

“Yeah,”

Grasping her chin with his free hand, he closes the space between them, kissing her like he’d been wanting to all day.

Melting into the kiss, their lips mold together as if they were long lost lovers.

Pulling away, he licks his lips. His hand still cupping her chin, her eyes reopening to find him already looking at her.

It was her turn to be flustered.

“What was that for?”

“I’ve wanted to all day. Thought it was the right time.”

“Hm… your timing is impeccable.”

“Yeah?” His brows raise.

“Mhm.” She smirks.

“Another pat on the back for me?”

“Shut up,” she laughs.

☆: .☽ . :☆ﾟ.☆:☆: .☽ .☆: .☽ · 。ﾟ☆: .☽ . :☆ﾟ☆: .☽ . :☆

Sprawled out on his couch, the pair sit up under one another, watching a movie.

“Are you comfortable?” He asks, his hand is at the base of her neck, strumming soothing circles with his fingertips. She’s nestled comfortably between his legs while his heartbeat drums a lullaby against her ear.

“This TV’s gonna be watching me in a minute,” she says, her eyes getting lower and lower. His low chuckle vibrates through her before she continues. “I saw my mama today, by the way. We talked about you.”

His ears perk up at the new information.

“Oh did you, now? What y’all say?”

“Said you're cute, you better treat me right and then something about grandchildren.” The end makes Isaiah sputter out a cough, and she barely conceals her laughter. “I’m not sure, I kinda tuned her out at that point.”

“Well, she doesn't have to worry about me treating you right, I'd be an idiot not to,” he says, tickling her neck, making her immediately scrunch up.

“Stop!,” she squeals, reaching back to smack his hand, “she also said she’d like to meet you. I politely told her to slow her roll.”

“I don’t know, mama. I think I’d like to meet the lovely woman that raised my favorite girl.” Her cheeks heat up, and she’s grateful she isn’t facing him.

She faux muses for a moment before responding. “Well in that case, I may be able to get something arranged.”

The conversation makes Isaiah aware that he needs to spend some time with his own mother. He makes a mental note to call her come morning.

The rest of their evening is spent with more playful teasing between binging reruns of Living Single.

☆: .☽ . :☆ﾟ.☆:☆: .☽ .☆: .☽ · 。ﾟ☆: .☽ . :☆ﾟ☆: .☽ . :☆

Isaiah makes good on his promise to call his mama that following morning as soon as he settled in at work. They made plans to meet up with each other that same day during his lunch break.

“I’ll miss you, swole arms. We’ve been having lunch together for months now.” Mya jokes before they part ways for the hour.

“Wait, what—” he stops mid thought before answering his own question. “Mercedes and Taylor, huh?”

“Mercedes and Taylor,” she confirms with a laugh.

“You know I haven’t officially met those girls, and I don’t think I like ‘em too much,” he teases with a laugh.

“They’re harmless for  the most part. Anyway, have fun with your mama. I know she misses her boy.”

“Thanks, Mya.” He catches her off guard by stealing a quick kiss to her lips while there are no eyes on them. 

By the time she can get her bearings, he’s gone, and she has to flush the blush away from her cheeks before anyone could grill her about it.

A five minute ride later, and Isaiah is seated across from his mother at Lorraine’s, a soul food staple in the neighborhood.

They’re catching up over fried catfish, greens, and yams.

“Honey, I thought the Lord was gonna come down on his gold chariot and snatch us up before I got to see my baby,” she teases.

He can’t help laughing at his mother’s dramatics. “I know it’s been a minute since we’ve seen each other, mama. I’m sorry.” He puts his free hand over hers, having genuinely missed her.

“Oh baby, it’s alright. I know you’re at that big, fancy company living out all your dreams and making your mama proud. I couldn’t ask for more from you.”

Emotions he didn’t plan on feeling on a Friday afternoon caused his throat to become tight. He cleared it, gently squeezing her hand. “Yeah,” he agrees softly, so his voice doesn’t betray him.

“So,” she starts, switching topics, “tell me more about this girl you were going on about earlier. Mya, right?”

“Yes, ma’am.” He smiles with his whole face.

“Hmm. The way those eyes lit up like Christmas when I said her name just now tells me she’s special, ain’t she?”

“You can definitely say that.”

“Special enough for a couple grandchildren? You know I just hit 35 and the clock ain’t tickin’ backwards.”

He’s so stuck by that “grandchildren” word, he completely misses that she subtracted roughly 15 years from her actual age.

“Boy, close your mouth before you catch a fly. I’m just messing with you. A little bit.”

“Mama, you are entirely too much. Let me get to know her first, maybe learn more than her favorite flower, before you start talking about kids.”

“Fine,” she says, rolling her eyes jokingly. “But tell me what you do know about her.”

“Well,” he takes a moment to gather his thoughts together, “she’s so pretty, mama. I tell her that all the time. Maybe too much, but she doesn’t seem to mind. She’s really sweet. I mean, give you a cavity kind of sweet,” he pauses, chuckling at how corny that sounded, even to his own ears. “She makes me laugh.”

“Honey, you laugh at everything.” He’s interrupted by his mother’s gentle observation. 

“I know that, lady. But with her, it’s a deep, from the gut kinda laugh, ya know?”

She acknowledges her son with a nod, silently encouraging him to go on.

“And she’s really talented. Like, an out of the box type of talented. And ambitious. Crazy ambitious. All the time, she tells me the things she wants outta life, and I’m watching her get it in real time. I love that.” 

“Well, she’s already a country mile ahead of that last one, I tell ya that. What was her name again, Jezebel?”

He almost loses the sip of lemonade he took.

“It was Janaé, mama.”

“Ain’t that what I said? Anyway, that thang had your nose open like 7/11. I was starting to worry about you, boy.”

“Well, I like to pride myself on making better decisions now, mama.”

“Thank the Lord for small wonders,” she continued to tease him.

“I’m starting to question whether or not you love me, old lady.”

“Oh cut it out. I’m just teasing. You know I love my baby,” she says while pinching his cheek.

“Come on now, ma.” He gently removes her hand from his face, chuckling.

She sighs, looking at how happy her son looked at the moment. She debates whether or not she should relay the piece of information that could prove devastating for his progress.

“What’s on your mind, mama?” he asks before she can decide.

“ I wanna talk to you about something.”

“Is everything okay?” He sits up in his seat, concern already etching its way into his features.

“Everything’s fine. Don’t you worry.” She takes a moment to carefully choose her words. “It’s about your father.”

As soon as the sentence leaves her lips, all trace of emotion falls from his face as he sits back and downs the last of his drink.

“Hm. He finally die?” he asks coolly.

She knows she shouldn’t have been taken aback by such a response, but she found the sharp turn of his mood to be slightly jarring, even now.

“No, that’s not it.”

“Evil never really does die, I guess,” he says with a shrug.

“So what is it?” His gaze stays focused on the view outside of the large window, a technique learned in therapy to keep himself grounded.

“He’s been asking about you. Asking to see you. I wanted to give you a head’s up beforehand.”

“A head’s up?” he bites back a laugh. “I'm not gonna kill the man.”

Not that he’s never considered it.

March-ish, 2006, Dallas

A fourteen-year-old Isaiah polishes off the last of his breakfast, placing his dishes in the sink before heading off to Lincoln Jr. High. His mother isn’t there to see him off once again, having had to work her fourth double this week at Halifax Memorial Hospital, while his father had never seen him off, not once.

Third period English rolls around, and he receives a recent term paper face down. A big, red D is at the top right hand corner with a note saying “See me after class”. He sighs, rolling his eyes to the ceiling.

The bell rings, and his classmates file out, but he lags behind.

“Come sit down.” Miss Braxton motions to the empty seat nearest her desk.

He follows her instruction and plops down into the seat.

“Care to explain this unfocused, uninspired, half-attempt of an essay you decided to turn in?” she says while looking over the rim of her glasses.

He replies with a shrug of his shoulders and a barely audible “I don’t know.”

“Listen, I expect this kind of work from some of my students, but not you, Isaiah. I’ve seen what you’re capable of, and this,” she picks up the paper, waving it slightly for emphasis before continuing, “is nowhere near close. Remember, I’ve been your teacher since you were little, in the first grade always asking me for a new book to read. I see you doing big things and this lackadaisical attitude you’ve taken on isn’t going to get you there.”

A silence falls over the room as her words take a moment to run through his head.

“Um, imma be late for fourth period, so I gotta go,” he says, wanting to run far away from this conversation.

“You’re free to go. Don’t forget what I’ve said, okay?”

He nods, booking it for the door.

Harshly, he wipes at the tears just making their way down his face. He curses himself for his feelings.

“Well, if it ain’t my favorite punk ass bitch. Doing what he does best. Fuckin’ cryin’.” He’s greeted by the school bully, Darius, a thorn in his side for almost a year now.

“Your daddy ain’t teach you how to be a man yet? Oh I forgot, you don’t even know who the fuck he is. Just you and your mama. I see why you’re such a bitch.”

“Darius, don’t fuck with me today,” he warns, trying to get past the boy.

“Or what?? You gon’ run and tell mommy on me? I’m so scared. Fuck outta here,” the bully retorts, blocking his path and pushing the smaller boy in the center of his chest.

Without much thought, Isaiah cocks his hand back and clocks Darius directly in his eye. The blows don’t stop once he’s down though. He continues to rain blow after blow to his face while he’s crouched over his fallen form shouting profanities the entire while.

It takes two grown male teachers to finally pry him off the boy. He needs to be damn near dragged to the principal’s office.

His mother is less than pleased when she’s called out of work due to her son practically mauling the school bully.

Little did she know, that was only the beginning…

He sighs, coming back to the present moment.

“I didn’t think you would, son. I just thought it might be helpful to know,” she responds, to which he simply nods.

“Listen, whatever you decide to do, baby, mama’s got your back.” 

She places her hand over his and squeezes, which causes him to look back at her. He softens immediately, seeing his mother’s eyes shine with nothing but love and concern for him.

“I know.”

“Good.”

He uses the drive back to the office to compose himself into the man that his coworkers recognize.

Mya notices something off when he walks back into the office. To the untrained eye, he looks fine, but there’s a look in eye that she can name, being all too familiar with it herself.

After a meeting she could barely pay attention to,  she’s at the end of her workday, still consumed by what could be wrong with her normally cheerful coworker.

Deciding not to press him about it, she instead extends an offer to spend the evening with her.

“Hey,” she gently catches his attention as he’s walking toward the large, glass double doors.

He turns, giving her a smile that doesn’t quite reach his eyes.

“Hey Mya. What’s up?”

She shifts her weight, almost feeling nervous. 

“Yeah, I just wanted to ask you if you wanted to come over to my house...if you could use the company. I know I could.”

He doesn’t answer right away, and she feels her heart start to sink. 

Seconds later, though, she’s gifted a smile much more genuine than earlier and she visibly relaxes.

“I’d love that.”

Extending his arm to her, she accepts, linking them together as they walk out of the building.

 A smooth playlist curated by Mya plays in the background as the pair lounges on her porch swing.

She’s upright while Isaiah's head is in her lap.

There are no words spoken between the two of them, but the silence is comfortable. 

She uses her slippered foot to softly rock them.

His eyes are closed while she runs her fingers through his soft coils.

Her gaze, however, is focused on the group of little brown girls across the street who are out playing jump rope.

The clack of their beaded hair, coupled with their laughter brings about a feeling of warmth.

“What is it that makes a man not want to be a father?”

Her eyes darted down toward the man in her lap, whose eyes are still closed.

Her fingers continue their relaxing pattern across his scalp, unsure of how to answer that.

He continues, “It’s like they don’t know or don’t fuckin’ care about the broken pieces they leave behind when they do that. And you know what the cold part about it is?”

She remains silent, knowing the answer is coming.

“He’s not even responsible for fixing the shit. Making sure I never turned out like him was 100 percent up to me. Tell me that’s not fucked up.”

He goes quiet for a moment, but she doesn’t feel compelled to break it.

She’s stunned by this new piece of him that he’s shared with her with no provocation from her.

“My father wants to see me. Wants to talk,” he finally reveals after several more moments of silence.

“How do you feel about it?” She asks cautiously.

There’s a pause before he responds, “I don’t know.”

“Well… until you know how you feel about it, I wouldn't make any final decisions. Process it first, you know?”

A sort of huffing sigh leaves him, before silence takes back over.

The slight, late October breeze blows over them, lightly tousling her hair across her face.

She removes the random strands, still maintaining her rocking with her foot.

“How would you handle this situation?” Isaiah asks, his eyes now open and looking up at her.

Not answering right away, her rocking stops. Instead it turns into a steady bounce with the opposite foot, as she tries to conjure up words for a moment such as that.

“I wouldn’t know. I haven’t talked to my father in years. Guess I’d have to process it, too.” She laughs, but it’s far from humorous.

Her eyes stay trained on the pastel numbered boxes from the hopscotch game the girls had played earlier, keeping her emotions at bay.

“Sorry. I didn’t mean to make this about me.”

“You didn’t. It’s okay.” He sits up, his softened gaze on her reddened face.

“I guess we’re more alike than we realized.” He offers a laugh, which she returns. Yet, her slight frown gives her away.

“I’m sorry you have to go through this. It ain’t right.” She shakes her head.

“It’s not your fault, don’t be sorry. I’m just glad you listened. That was tough to share.”

“I understand.” She finally looks in his direction.

The lingering emptiness in their eyes mirror one another, making them feel far too vulnerable.

“Can I take you up on that hot toddy you were talking about?” He asks.

She laughs, holding out her hand for him to take.

“I thought you’d never ask.”

[miyuhpapayuh]

lovers and friends.

Sitting at the square bar top table inside of Flavor, the trio sit and await the arrival of Mya’s very unaware date.

“Are you nervous?” Taylor asks Mya, who’s been smoothing her clammy hands over her dress for the last fifteen minutes.

“Huh?”

Mercedes squints in her direction, making Taylor laugh. “If you can “huh”, you can hear. Relax, girl!”

“I’m relaxed! I just need y’all to be nice.”

“I’m always nice. It’s that one,” Taylor points her manicured finger across the table, “that you have to watch.”

“I don’t need to be watched, you peasant.” She rolls her eyes.

“Anywho. You might not oblige, but I would like to talk to your friend, alone.” Mercedes says, watching the slight horror come across Mya’s face.

“I don’t know, cedes…”

“Listen, before you start! I just wanna talk to him. I won’t interrogate, per say. Just some friendly badgering if you will!”

Face palming, she reluctantly agrees. “Okay. Just let me warn him, first.” She pulls out her phone to text him.

“Oh my gosh, am I that bad?”

Taylor and Mya give her the same look, answering her question.

“Fair enough.” She shrugs.

“He’s coming in, now.  Please be nice, y’all.” Mya pleads. Her nerves begin to get the best of her.

Her eyes wander around the crowd in search of him.

“Aw, look at ‘er, searching for her boo!” Mercedes pokes fun.

Rolling her eyes, they land on him and all his glory.

“There he is.” She smiles as he looks in her direction, making his way over to their table.

“Hello, ladies.” He greets, holding three pink roses in his hand. “I thought it’d be rude to come empty handed.”

“Ugh! How sweet is that!” Taylor takes a rose from his hand. “I like you, already. I’m Taylor.”

Mercedes smirks, taking hers. “Yes, very sweet of you, Isaiah.”

He chuckles. “Ah, you must be the infamous Mercedes.”

“The one and only.” She flips her hair over her shoulder. Mya laughs, shaking her head.

“It’s nice to finally meet the both of you.” He says, turning his attention towards his flushed faced beauty of a date.

“You look beautiful.” He compliments as she grabs the last rose from his hand.

“Thank you, handsome.” She kisses his cheek. “I’ll let you two,” she looks between him and Mercedes, “get to talkin’. We’ll be at the bar.”

“She acts like I’m gonna chew you up.” She starts laughing.

“And, spit his ass out!” Taylor jokes.

“Right! Don’t act like we don’t know you, cedes. Behave.” Mya gives her a death glare.

“I will! Jesus.”

Isaiah looks between the three of them, amused.

“Y’all are funny.”

“Yeah, you should stick around for when the laughter stops.” Mya sighs. “Anywho, we’ll be over there.”

“Holler if you need saving.” Taylor continues, before dragging Mya towards the bar.

“Make yourself comfortable, I don’t bite… I fight.” She smiles. He snorts and sits across from her.

“I respect it.”

“That’s so good to hear. Now, tell me.. what drew you to my best friend, besides the fact that she is as pretty as she is?” She tilts her head.

Squinting at her, he chuckles. “Using my own words against me. Clever.”

“Not as clever as you. Nice game, I’ll admit.”

“Thank you, thank you.” He graciously clasps his hands together.

“Anyhow.. she’s very intellectual, for starters. She’s got a bunch of what she calls “useless facts” in her head that she likes to share. They’re not as useless as she thinks, though.”

“I’ve told her that a thousand times.” She adds.

“Don’t tell her this, but I’ve taken a couple of those and put ‘em to use.” They share a laugh.

“Really?”

“Yeah!” He grows excited. “She was peeling an orange one day, while informing me that a red bell pepper’s got three times more vitamin C than it. I went to go see my sister and I had to share the info, even though she didn’t really care.”

“See, that one I had no idea about. Makes you almost wonder.. what’s the point of the orange, then?”

“Exactly. They might as well start juicing the peppers.” He jokes, making her laugh, once more.

“Are they.. laughing??” Mya asks, having not taken her eyes off them since she sat down.

“How can you tell? We’re like ten feet away.” Taylor says, knocking back a shot of brandy.

“Her shoulders bounced! I saw that.” She smirks. “I knew he’d crack her.”

“What else do you like about her?” Mercedes asks.

“She’s sweet.” He says, to which she starts laughing.

“You just wait until she gets more comfortable around you. That girl’s attitude is something fiery. Other than that, yes she’s sweeter than taffy.”

“Good to know.” He nods. “Think I’ll stay on her good side.”

“I might not have to beat the brakes off you, Isaiah. We’ll keep the option on the table if need be, though.” She half-jokes, holding out her hand for him to shake.

He obliges. “Thank you. You’re not as bad as Mya made you out to be.”

“Ugh, she’s so dramatic! I only do what I do to protect my girls. They’re everything to me and I won’t let them get hurt.” She stresses, feeling her throat dry up a little.

“I’d never hurt her. She’s far too special to me, already.”

“Good. I can see you bein’ around for a while.”

“I hope so.”

Turning in her friends’ direction, she motions them back over towards the table.

“Looks like it was a lovely conversation to me.” Taylor pokes Mya’s side as she sits down beside Mercedes at the table.

“It was, you heffas.” She rolls her eyes.

“I didn’t even say anything! I already caught you laughing from the bar. That was enough for me.” Mya replies, sitting next to Isaiah. His arm instinctively wraps around her waist.

“I must be the ice witch or something!”

“Well, no you’re not. None of our boyfriends have ever made you laugh, before.” Taylor says.

“They weren’t funny.” Mercedes says to Isaiah, making him chuckle.

“Must not’ve been.”

“This is a sight to see!” Mya clasps her hands together.

“As much as I love being attacked, I need a drink. Taylor, come with me, please.”

“Looks like I’m headed back to the bar!” She sings-songs, as they head on over.

Leaving the two alone, they turn their attention to each other.

“Did I already tell you how beautiful you look?” He asks.

“You might’ve mentioned it, yeah,” she giggles.

“A couple more times wouldn’t hurt, would it?”

“Not from somebody as fine as you.” She leans in to kiss him.

“Mm, that’s how we’re feelin’, this evening?”

“We, huh?”

“You like the sound of it too, huh?”

“Full of jokes, today. C’mere.” She presses her lips back to his for another quick kiss. 

Pulling away, she leans on his shoulder. Her eyes linger on his handsome face.

“You alright?”

“I may have had a shot or two at the bar.” She shrugs, trying to keep her laughter at bay.

“You might be the only person that I know, who ignores the fact that liquor can wipe them out.” He laughs, shaking his head.

“We’re here for a good time, not a long time.”

“Agreed.” He flagged down a waitress and ordered a shot of whiskey.

“There you go!”

“You’re a bad influence.” He teases.

“A little drink ain’t never hurt nobody. I could always do worse.”

“That’s very true.”

“I’ve got another useless fact for you.” She announces after a while.

His ears perk up. “Lay it on me.”

“You can get high off nutmeg if you consume too much of it.”

His brows scrunch up, before he nods. “Where’d you hear that one from?”

“My sister.” She laughs. “She’s also mad that she hasn’t met you, yet.”

“As is my sister. Don’t be offended, but my brother’s always been kinda to himself. He did say you were pretty.”

“That’s sweet. You and your sister are close, I assume?”

“You’d be correct. She’s always been there for me. Pain in my neck, but I love’er.”

What’s it like to be loved by such a man?

“You and your sister are close too, yeah?” He asks, as his drink comes to the table.

“Two peas in a pod, yeah. She’s always been my protector in a kind of way. I used to think she was smothering me, but she saved me from a lot.”

“Big sisters for the win.” He smiles.

“Go them!” She pumps her fist in the air making him laugh.

“No more drinks for you!”

“Aw, I was just getting started!” She whines, half joking.

The group had eventually found their way towards the dance floor, as Flavor jumped to the beat of Touching by V. Cartier.

Mercedes finds herself in between a very fine man and Taylor, keeping her close, as Mya and Isaiah stand a short distance away, getting a little closer than they’ve been around the two.

“You smell good.” He compliments, his chin in the crook of her neck as they sway to the sultry beat.

She giggles at the slight slur in his words. “That’s what three shots do to you, huh Mr. Lightweight?”

“Ain’t none but a lil slur. I still got my balance.”

“Aight, if you trip, I’m getting Mercedes to record everything!” She laughs.

Chuckling, he holds her closer. “You’d do me like that??”

“Nah, I’m just playing. I’d still laugh, though.”

“That’s cold, babe.”

Her brows raise at the name. Her cheeks flush red and her friends are witnessing every minute of it, soaking it up.

“They really are so stinkin’ cute.” Mercedes comments in Taylor’s ear, who agrees right away.

“I’m calling it. That’s her man.”

A quick laugh leaves her lips. “They’ve only been dating for about two months? I think they need a little more time, no?”

“Says the girl that started dating another man, less than two weeks after ol weeny showed his ass.” Taylor quips.

“We’re talking about Mya, not me.”

“Mercedes, you like him for her, right?”

“Of course.”

“Then, relax mama. She’s in good hands. Good, strong hands.” They share a laugh.

“Okay, okay.”

After another round of shots, the group decided to call it a successful night.

“I’m glad everyone had a great time, we should do it again!” Mya says, linking her arm with Isaiah's as they walk Mercedes and Taylor to her car.

“Definitely.”

“Let me pick the spot, next time!” Taylor offers.

“Don’t have us around a bunch of stuck up white people, Tay.” Mercedes says, unlocking her car as they hug each other.

Mya snickers.

“As funny as that was,” she rolls her eyes, “I don’t even hang out in spots like that. I be with y’all!”

“She’s got a point, cedes.”

“Anywho, we won’t hold y’all up no longer. It was nice to meet you, Isaiah. Take care of our girl.”

“You ladies, too. And don’t worry, I got her. Goodnight.”

“Goodnight!” They say in unison, before getting inside the car. The pair begin heading back in the opposite direction.

The soft breeze blows through her curls, cooling her off from the warm liquor that’s running through her veins.

“Enjoy yourself?” She asks, as they make it to his truck.

“Always. I’m glad you invited me out.” He says, helping her inside, before hopping inside, himself.

“Of course. My friends really wanted to meet you and I was dying to see how this played out.” she giggles. “I’m glad it went the way I’d hoped.”

“Me too. You had me a little scared, I won’t lie.” He admits, pulling out of the parking lot.

“I did warn you! But, y’all hit it off!”

“She’s a good friend. I can tell you mean a lot to her. Both of them.” He says, making her smile.

“Those are my girls.” She softly says.

“Where to? Home?”

“Hm.. not yet. I think we’ve got one more stop to make.”

Sitting across from each other in their favorite ice cream shoppe, the pair share another double scoop of vanilla.

“You love your ice cream, huh?”

“Mmhm!” She agrees, excitedly.

How does it feel to be loved by such a woman?

“You feelin’ better, these days?” She asks in regards to the conversation they’d previously had about his father.

He sighs. “Yeah, I’m cool. Still don’t know how to really feel, but I’m cool.”

She decides not to pry any further. Instead, she sits her hand on top of his, softly squeezing.

He looks at her, a small smile on his lips. “Thank you.”

“Anytime.”

☆: .☽ . :☆ﾟ.☆:☆: .☽ .☆: .☽ · 。ﾟ☆: .☽ . :☆ﾟ☆: .☽ . :☆

Back at work, Mya and Savannah play catch up before her shift begins. The two stand in her office with their morning coffee as her boss almost loses her mind at the news.

“Why didn’t you tell me??”

“I wanted to make sure I wasn’t dreaming!” Mya laughs.

Savannah laughs, patting her shoulder. “I can’t blame you, but I did tell you that he was sweet on you!”

“You did.” She agrees, putting her coffee back up to her lips.

“How long has it been?”

“A little over a month since we’ve been dating. It’s nice. Really nice.”

“Just let me know when the wedding is.” She jokes, before handing her a pink folder with the word projects on the front.

“This is for your ideas, as well as the actual plans that you’ve been talking to me about for quite some time. I’ve given a particular one some thought..”

“Which one?” Mya asks.

“Oh, you know… remodeling the place doesn’t sound like a bad idea, after all. We’ve got the contractors for it and your ideas were very, very nice.”

“Savannah, don’t play with me!” She squeals, making her boss laugh.

“After the way you kept hounding me about taking you and your work more seriously, as if I never did, shame on you.” She pauses to playfully slap Mya’s hand. “I decided to take you up on all of your offers.”

“Indeed, you have! I don’t even know what to say!”

“Say you'll take it from here.”

Mya flips her curls over her shoulder. “I’ll take it from here.”

“That’s my girl!”

“Well, I guess I better start on this.” She says, before heading out.

“I can’t wait to see what you come up with.” She calls out.

☆: .☽ . :☆ﾟ.☆:☆: .☽ .☆: .☽ · 。ﾟ☆: .☽ . :☆ﾟ☆: .☽ . :☆

“See,” Isaiah exclaims, “I knew you had some wicked cool ideas in that head of yours.”

They sit across from each other, sharing her binder that she’d been filling up, ever since the morning.

“That’s one of my favorites, too!”

After having lunch together like always, the pair headed back to her office, after she’d shared the news about a possible remodeling of the building.

“I like the thought of tinted glass windows. That might be cool.”

“Right? It’s so simple, but it’s so cool, at the same time!”

“I’m glad you’re excited about it.” He teases, making her laugh.

“I’ve been waiting for this day to come. I mean, don’t get me wrong, I love how Abstraction looks. It’s cute! I’ve just always felt like it was missing something.” She explains.

“What’s missing?”

“Pizazz.” She deadpans.

Her expression is what took him out, even receiving a single clap. She took note of the way his shoulders bounced as she laughed along.

“Oh, you should’ve seen your face.” He chuckles. “But, that’s understandable. It’s not as colorful as you think it should be?”

“It’s fine, honestly. I don’t like things too bright, myself. But, it’s just old. We need something that’ll stay timeless. Something sleek, maybe? Bolder. Maybe, that's the right word. That’s why I’ve got all these ideas. I’m trying to figure it out.”

“Well, if you need any help, Jane’s also got an eye for design. That’s if you’re cool with that.”

She smiles. “Of course. Your friends are my friends.”

“As yours are mine.” They lean in for a kiss.

“I’m glad you shared the news with me.” A smile graced her lips, before she plants them back on his.

“You were the first person I told, actually.”

His brows raise, making her laugh.

“Isaiah, please.”

“So, I’m special? Is that what that means?” He asks.

“Yes.That’s what that means.”

He nods, before leaning back in to kiss her. His hand slides up her arm to cup her cheek, leaving a trail of goosebumps behind.

He pulls away as they begin to get lost in the kiss, making her frown, yet regain her composure.

“What are you doing after work?” He asks, standing from his chair.

“Mercedes invited Taylor and I to go see her boo perform at the poetry club. I’m not really in the mood to go out, but I promised her I’d support,” she shrugs. “You wanna come with me?”

“Will it get the frown off your face, if I say yes?”

“Maybe.”

“Okay. I’ll go with you.”

Like clockwork, her pout turned into a smile.

“There she is.”

“Get out.” She laughs.

“What time am I picking you up?” He asks.

“I was actually gonna come and get you. You know.. since I invited you out, I thought I’d take it off your hands tonight.”

“Oh, alright. What time should I be ready, ma’am?”

“Six thirty, sharp. Sir.”

“Six thirty-one, got it.”

“Isaiah.”

“I kid, I kid.” He blows her a kiss, before heading out.

Sliding her binder back towards her, she jots down a couple more ideas, before closing it up.

A knock sounds at the door. She gets up to pull it open, revealing none other than Jane.

“Hey, Jane.”

Their smiles mirror.

“Hey, Mya. How’s it going?”

“It’s going great! Come on in.”

“Wow, I think your office might be cooler than mine, girl!” She compliments, looking around.

“I try to spruce it up in here a bit, you know?”

“Indeed.” She sits across from Mya. “So, I heard you’ve got a project underway.”

“Mmhm, I also heard that you have an eye for design.”

“Would you look at that,” she laughs, “looks like I came knockin’ on the right door.”

“That, you did.” Mya joins in on the laughter, shaking her head. “Isaiah works fast, doesn’t he?”

“Not usually. I don’t think I’ve ever seen him work this hard.” She says, making Mya’s cheeks flush red.

“Well,” she clears her throat, “there’s a first time for everything, right?”

“Indeed. He really really likes you.” Jane stresses.

“I really really like him, too.”

Quickly changing the subject before her cheeks burn any more, she reopens her binder.

“Okay, so I’m in the process of remodeling this place, and a girl could use all the help she can get.” She starts.

“Wow, that’s huge, Mya! Also, I’d love to help you!”

“Thank you, I appreciate it. Let me show you what I’ve got so far!” She excitedly flips through her pages, landing on one of her other favorite ideas.

“What if we take a more colorful approach? Change the dull blues and yellows to a splash of orange and pink, maybe? Sleeker lines and more modern furniture.”

“I like it! What would the individual offices look like?”

“The default color could be olive green or if anybody wanted a custom color, I’d be open to it… maybe even some prints, Ms. Cheetah lover.” She points out.

“I’m a dead giveaway, seriously.” She laughs. And it was true. Her earrings, as well as the fur lining of her blue jean jacket was cheetah print.

“It’s cute! Cheetah’s always in, especially with fall being right around the corner!”

“That’s true. So, when does this start?”

“I’m not sure, yet. We’ve got the seminar in November, which isn’t too far away. I guess I’d start after that.”

“Oh yeah, the seminar.” She smiles. “Isaiah’s going to the Gold ball. I’m so excited for him.”

“Yeah, me too. He deserves it.”

“You’re going too, right??”

“I am! I’m still in shock over it, though.”

“Why?”

“I don’t know, honestly. I guess, I second guess myself. I just don’t always see the potential that other people see.” She admits.

“That’s understandable. It can be kinda tense, sometimes. You ever feel like people put pressure on you to be the best?”

“Yeah! But, I feel as if it's second nature to some. Like, they don’t mean any harm, but they leave you feeling anxious as hell, anyway?”

“Girl, you just explained my life. That’s why I just do my job and go home.”

“See, and that’s exactly why we need a revamping of sorts! I want this to be more than just a job. I want it to be somewhere that we love to be. A place where we can create and share. Where we can grow. This company deserves that. Savannah deserves that.”

“She couldn’t have picked a better person for the job. If nobody else tells you this, I will. You deserve to be in this place.”

“Thank you. That really means a lot. You deserve to be here, too!”

“Thanks!”

They share a laugh.

“Hey, we should hang out sometime.”

“I would love that.”

They exchange numbers, before Jane heads for the door.

“Well, I’m glad I stopped by. Isaiah said he’d kick my ass if I didn’t come and say hi, like we’re not cool.” She rolls her eyes. “Boys.”

“Can’t live with ‘em, can’t live without ‘em, I guess.” Mya laughs.

“I suppose. I think I’ll be fine, honestly.” She snorts. “Anywho. You have a good evening, Mya. I’ll see you around.”

“You too, Jane. Thanks, again.” She salutes, before letting herself out and closing the door behind herself.

☆: .☽ . :☆ﾟ.☆:☆: .☽ .☆: .☽ · 。ﾟ☆: .☽ . :☆ﾟ☆: .☽ . :☆

Mya and Gina sit at her kitchen table after she'd returned home, as she’d just shared the news with her sister.

“That’s huge, girl! I’m so proud of you!” Her sister exclaims.

“Thanks! I’ve been getting that all day.”

“Duh, as you should. What did ma say?”

“She thought it would’ve happened sooner, of course. She’s even come up there and told Savannah how much a revamp would boost her company and I guess she finally listened to her.” She shrugs.

“That woman never stops.” She shakes her head.

“No. No she doesn’t.” She laughs.

“What about your boo?” The way she emphasized the last word made Mya’s cheeks heat up for the thousandth time today.

“Ugh,” she presses her fingers against her temples. “He’s very proud of me. He was the first person I told, actually.”

“Wha— you didn’t tell Mercedes first?? Ooooooh!” Gina starts cracking up.

“Gina, stop! You know that girl would have my head if she knew that. I didn’t mean it, I just kinda blurted it, cause he’s so pretty and I love when he’s happy for me.” She rambles.

“Girl, you sound like you’re in love.”

Mya’s brows scrunch up. “That’s a little extreme, no?”

“I mean, it’s not usually your style, but this isn’t just casual dating for you. You really like this man.”

She shamelessly agrees. “I do. I really do. But, it’s okay, this time. He likes me, just as much! If not more.” She giggles.

“And, Mercedes likes him!! He must be quite the charmer, cause that lil devil don’t like nobody.” They laugh.

“That’s what I told him! She surprised the hell out of me, when I saw them choppin’ it up. I knew he’d crack her though.”

“Why?”

“Cause he’s real. He’s calculated, but not in a conniving way. He’s so sweet, he’d make you blush, just by being himself. Such a dork.” She snorts.

Yup, definitely in love.

“So, when do I get to meet him?”

“When do you want to meet him?”

“Now.”

“Gina, it’s almost seven thirty on a Monday night. I know we were already hanging out tonight, but you don’t think that’s a little short notice?” Mya asks.

“Hm… yeah, I suppose. Well how about tomorrow?”

“After my meeting, yeah. That should work!” Mya agrees, quickly texting Isaiah.

“And he said that works for him, too!”

“Guess I'm meeting the beau, tomorrow!” Gina cheeses.

☆: .☽ . :☆ﾟ.☆:☆: .☽ .☆: .☽ · 。ﾟ☆: .☽ . :☆ﾟ☆: .☽ . :☆

And surely after her meeting, the pair met her older sister at Panera for lunch.

“Wow, you're much cuter than she described,” Gina blurts, shaking his firm hand.

He smiles, holding out Mya’s chair as they get seated.

“Thank you, thank you. It's nice to finally meet you.”

“Oh, we've all been dying to meet her knight in shining armor!”

“Gina,” her younger sister playfully warns.

“What??”

“Knight in shining armor, huh?” He chuckles, wrapping an arm around the back of her chair.

“That might've been what I said,” she playfully rolls her eyes, looking away from him as soon as he looks in her direction, giggling to herself.

“A sight,” Gina shakes her head, smiling at her sister.

“So, what do you do at Abstraction?”

“I’m one of the executive web developers. Photoshop is where I reside, most of the day.”

“Ah, that’s gotta be cool!”

“Yeah, most days. Sometimes, it can be a pain in the ass. It’s a very tedious process, depending on what part of the website I’m tryna pick apart or what I’m trying to create.”

“Ooh, so you’ll be helping Mya lay out the revamping on the website? Or have you guys talked about that yet?”

“We haven’t talked about it yet, no. But, it sounds like a good way to get your name out there!” Mya adds.

“Yeah, but I don’t wanna impose on her project. I know how much she loves those.”

“This is true, but I’d love for you to be a part.”

“Whew. For a second, I thought I said too much.” Gina laughs.

“Girl. Anyway.”

“Yeah, yeah. So Isaiah, how long have you and my sister been dating?”

“It’s been about a month and some change, yeah?” He looks to Mya, who nods.

“How cute! You seem like a nice man.”

“Anything for her.” He smiles.

“We love to hear that!”

“Mmhm,” Mya agrees, taking another bite of her sandwich.

Gina’s phone begins to ring. She looks down at it and sighs. “I’ve gotta take this. I’ll be right back.”

Excising herself, the two are left alone.

“She don't play about you, either,” he says, making her giggle.

“Not one bit! She'd probably get you before Mercedes.”

“No worries, I'm on my best behavior for you,” he promises, leaning to kiss her cheek, repeatedly.

“Cut it out!” she laughs and covers the side of her face, fanning the heat away from her cheeks.

“Hey y’all, it looks like I’ve gotta head out.” Gina comes back to the table.

“Sorry our time got cut short, but this was great! I’m sure I’ll be seeing more of you.” She smiles, mirroring the couple’s like expression.

“Yes you will.” He answers, matter-of-factly.

“Thank you for lunch, sis.” Mya says, standing to hug her sister before she heads back to her office.

☆: .☽ . :☆ﾟ.☆:☆: .☽ .☆: .☽ · 。ﾟ☆: .☽ . :☆ﾟ☆: .☽ . :☆

Ending their evening together like usual, the pair are winding down inside of Mya's home.

She finds Isaiah on her couch, flipping through her channels. She joins him, laying her feet in his lap.

“Is this what I look like when I come over?” She questions.

“Hell yeah. You kick your feet up and everything. I won’t do that, though. Coffee table’s too nice.”

“Mm, saved by the bell.”

“Saved by the bell!” He nods. “That used to be my show, man. Poor Slater.” He frowns, making her do the same.

“Yeah, Lisa was pretty bad off, too.”

“It sucks how life does people. You’re either at the top or at the bottom.” He shakes his head.

“Or you’re stuck in the middle.” She adds.

“True. Very true…” he continues to flip through, before landing on Living Single reruns.

“Oh look. It’s our show.” She claps.

He smiles as he sits the remote down, his  left arm finding the back of the couch.

“Our, huh?” He asks.

“You like the sound of it too, huh?”

“Indeed. C’mere.”

She scoots closer to him, naturally relaxing as he wraps his arm around her. He kisses her forehead, making her swoon even more.

[miyuhpapayuh]

Been so long. (Blurb)

“It's been a minute since you've touched me.” Mya speaks, playing with his tie as he backs her up against the wall of her walk-in closet.

“I know,” Isaiah groans, sliding his hands down her sides and around her waist, pulling him so much closer to her.

“We've been so busy, and every day you've passed me in those short skirts, drove me wild.”

“I wanted you to sweat a little,” she admits, “wanted you to notice me.”

“Oh baby, not a day goes by that I don't notice you. Been in love with you since I first saw you.”

Her heart throbs, right along with every other intimate part of her as she closes the space between them, her tongue tangling with his.

His tie is loosened and thrown somewhere, her hands gripping his collar as the kiss deepens.

His wandering hand’s between her thighs, pulling her panties to the side to feel just how wet she is. Soaked.

The gasp that leaves her at his touch does him in. He pulls away to press his forehead to hers, still messing in her slick.

“Isaiah,” she breathes.

“Ima take care of you, baby.” He says, before sinking down to his knees.

Pulling the wet material away, his plump lips kiss her clit. Her bottom lip disappears into her mouth at the feeling.

The moment he gently spread her thighs and ran his tongue up her aching slit, her head fell back against the wall, another sweet gasp leaving those lips.

“Fuck,” she looks down at him, watching as he swirls his tongue all over her, while staring back up at her.

Throwing a leg over his shoulder, he gets the hint to scoop her up in his arms and properly devour her. Her hands find his curls instantly.

“Fuck, I forgot you know all my spots,” she moans as she grinds against his wet, wet mouth, her head falling back against the wall.

Pulling away from her soaked slit, he places wet kisses on her clit, making her look down at him through her low lids.

“There she is,” he smirks, pressing his mouth back against her, his humming accompanying his suckling.

“Oh my god, ‘saiah,” she whines, digging her hands back into his hair.

Her eyes threaten to roll as he pulls her right back to the edge. A smack to her ass brought her gaze back to his.

“I'm gonna cum, baby!,” her legs cross around his neck as his movement grows sloppier, leaving her a throbbing mess.

Wagging his tongue right over her spot more than once set her off, her eyes closing all together at the sensation. Her obscene moans fill the space, along his groans.

Continuing to wag his tongue against her slit, he sets her off again, a scream intertwining her moans at the sudden rush of pleasure.

“Please, baby… please, fuck..” she desperately moans, grinding wildly against his tongue as he lays it flat, letting her glide up and down, her thighs hugging the sides of his face.

“Fuck me,” she says, “right here, fuck me.”

Ask and you shall receive.

Hard and deep, up against the wall, she was receiving the best pounding of her life. All while looking him straight in his beautiful face.

Her arms thrown around his neck, legs clenched around his waist with a smile on her pouty, swearin’ lips.

What a sight.

“You're s-so fucking deep,” she gasps, clinging to him.

“Take what you asked for, baby,” he grunts, “deep in’ere like you like.”

Her nails find his shoulders as his lips find her neck, her eyes fully rolling back like they've been dying to, at the ways he was making her feel.

Their month-long drought felt like years, as they fell back in love with the way each other felt.

“Fucking missed you, sweets.”

“I missed you, too!”

Now facing the wall, one hand splayed by her head and the other clawing at his thigh as he crowds around her, his hands resting on top of both of hers. Legs intertwined, hips fused, ensuring she could feel all of him as he grinds into her.

“Just like that, Isaiah,” she gasps, her eyes constantly rolling at the way he's pushing up against her sweet spot.

“Yeah?” He taunts, smirking down at her.

“Yes, it feels so damn good.. so damn,” her speech gets cut off by another intense orgasm, her body crumbling into his awaiting arms.

He continues to fuck her up against the wall, reveling in the sounds that leave her, the juices that leak from her.

@sheabuttahwrites @soufcakmistress @abeautifulmindexposed @twistedcharismaaa @cecereads209 @honestpreference @blowmymbackout @chaneajoyyy @emjayewrites @nayaxwrites @thegifstories @blackerthings @ghostfacekill-monger @nahimjustfeelingit-writes @henneseyhoe @headcannonxgalore @uzumaki-rebellion @unfriendlyblkhotti3 @supersizemeplz

[miyuhpapayuh]

I'm gonna bring honey back. I'll tweak some things and put it right back on here. I know we've already read it but y'all just don't understand how much that story means to me. I gotta put it back out. It hurt so much when I had to reimagine it, but it's still so precious to me. I can't not finish the story.

[miyuhpapayuh]

Thank you, thank you 🥹💜 you're too kind!

Papayuh’s Masterlist

Soulff

Honeyff

Tre

Tape

Can’t wait another minute

Alone Time

Yahya

Henny D*ck

Punishment

Mocha

ZxL scene (outtake)

Lucky

Overstimulate

Instructions

Candydrip Interluube 1 2

Compassion

Lucky & Hennessy

Y’lan

Where You Belong

Crushin’

Daniel K.

Kiss Me

Michael

I Missed You

Before work

Idris

Sugar

Daniel S.

Finish

Extras

We don’t even have to...

Anytime, anywhere

Parkin’ lot lovin’

I missed you

3thehardway

3thehardway…again

Sticky

Tape: take two.

Hands (teaser)

[miyuhpapayuh]

I'm gonna write an updated version on honey.

[miyuhpapayuh]

EAT UP!!! 🤭💜

nice to meet ya.

“Well, ain’t he sumn to look at,” Mercedes remarks, nudging Taylor’s arm.

“Mmhm.. hey, Mya! Get your mouth off the floor.”

Quickly closing her slightly gaped mouth, she glares at her pair of friends.

“Stop bein’ so loud!” she whisper-yells, picking a fry out her container as her eyes wander back to his handsome face.

“My bad.”

“Why don’t you just talk to him?” Mercedes asks.

“Cause. I hate rejection, and he’s so fine. I can’t risk it.” His eyes flicker in her direction, catching her stare.

She quickly looks in her friends’ direction to play it off. He chuckles to himself, the embarrassing blush on her cheeks, causing his adoration for her to skyrocket.

“How you know he don’t feel the same??”

“Ugh,” she covers her face, hiding the heat that’s rushing towards it.

“Why you blushin’? I miss somethin’?”

“He saw me looking at him.” She mumbles, keeping her face covered.

Mercedes swallows her laugh, while Taylor snorts. Mya sucks her teeth, sitting up from the table.

“You guys are the worst.”

“You got caught staring at a piece of eye candy. That’s hilarious!”

“Did he look annoyed or something?”

“I looked away, before I could see all of that.”

“Hm. Well, don’t worry about it too much. Maybe this’ll be ammo for one if not the both of you to make a move.” Taylor says, standing up from the table.

“And, where are you going?” Mercedes asks.

“She’s blowin’ us off for Teddy. Again.”

“Get some penis in you, and then we’ll talk.”

“White girl got a lil spunk in her, lately, huh?” Mercedes laughs, clapping her hands. “Chocolate’ll do that to ya.”

Taylor rolls her eyes, trying to hide the smirk on her lips. “Bye, girls.”

“Bye,” they wave.

Hearing a couple chairs scrape the tiled floor, she naturally looks to her left, instantly catching his eyes again.

This time, her lingering eyes are gifted a charming smile, turning her into mush.

Surprising herself, she plays it cool with a smirk, before he’s out of her sight.

Looking back in the direction of her food with the smirk stuck on her face, Mercedes scoffs in disbelief.

“Who knew you were such a quick learner?” she teases.

“Well, I’m gonna get back to work, now. See ya, later.” She stands up from the table and tosses her trash into the bin behind their table.

“You leavin’ me, too??” Her voice elevates.

“Yes. Some of us have to get back to work, as I previously stated. I’ll talk to you, later.” She assures her brash friend.

“Mmhm,” she waves her off.

Heading out of the expansive break room and down the hall, she’s pulled back before a neon pink poster board takes her out.

“Woah!” she gasps, catching her footing as a strong set of hands attach to her waist, keeping her from hitting the floor.

“Are you alright?” A deep voice sounds.

“Yeah, I’m,“ she turns to face the very man that makes her knees tremble, by merely existing.

“I’m good, yeah. Thank you.”

“It’s no problem, doll.” The corners of her mouth turn up at his southern drawl.

“It’a been a shame if you gotten wiped out by a poster board.”

“I don’t even know how I missed it,” they share a laugh, giving each other ample time to steal longer glances.

“What’s your name?” She asks, eyes lowering to his plump lips as he utters the name, Isaiah, in the most beautiful way she’s ever heard.

She hums, in response. “Nice to meet you, Isaiah.”

“Likewise.." he pauses, when she offers her own name.

"Mya," he repeats, nodding to himself.

"Mmhm," she hums, liking the way it sounds coming out of his mouth.

“Well, I'll let you get back to work, beautiful. Have a good day.” He says, lifting her hand to kiss the back of it.

“You, too.” She smiles, watching him walk away.

☆: .☽ . :☆ﾟ.☆:☆: .☽ .☆: .☽ · 。ﾟ☆: .☽ . :☆ﾟ☆: .☽ . :☆

“That’s a pretty nice conversation, for the girl who’s stomach hits her ass, every time he comes around the damn corner.” Taylor laughs on their three-way call.

“Shut up!” Mya whines, twirling the long black cord around her finger, watching her older sister, Gina, make dinner.

“Once we got to talkin’, it wasn’t so scary, anymore. He seems really sweet.” She says, making sister scoffs.

“That’s cute, mama,” Mercedes squeals. “Is he cuter, up close?”

“Oh my god, is he! The lips on that man deserve a prize.”

“Is that all??”

“He’s strong, too! Held my thick ass up with ease!” She giggles.

“Well, just let us know when the wedding is!” They all start laughing.

Oh god, please! I haven't even been asked on a date, yet.” 

“True! He better get to it!”

“Here, here! But I've gotta get on the road, children! Toodles!” Taylor says.

They all bid their farewells, as she hangs the phone back on its base, attached to the wall.

"I love how you've still got a landline." She jokes.

"I like my old-timey things, ma'am."

"I know, I know," she holds her hands up.

“So, he’s fine, huh?” Gina asks, handing Mya a bowl of chicken and rice, just like their mama makes.

“Absolutely. Plump lips, broad nose and broad shoulders.” She squeals.

“He smells like sandalwood. You know how much I love sandalwood! I coulda pounced on him.”

“Maybe, you should.” Gina laughs, shoving a spoonful of food into her mouth.

“Gina!”

“What? It’s me! You don’t have to lie.” Mya’s cheeks flush red.

“In my head, I’ve already done that and much more. But, I can’t see myself doing anything, besides having a conversation with him, like earlier.”

“You’d be surprised. But, whatever happens, try not to think about it too much. That’s how you ruin it. Just have fun”

“Thanks, gigi.”

“Anytime. Thanks for coming over.”

“You know I’m always available to eat your food, sis.” She cheeses.

“That’s the only reason you came over?” She frowns.

“‘Course not! It’s just a really good bonus.”

“Mm.” Gina rolls her eyes, continuing to eat.

☆: .☽ . :☆ﾟ.☆:☆: .☽ .☆: .☽ · 。ﾟ☆: .☽ . :☆ﾟ☆: .☽ . :☆

Passing down the aisle of the large grocery store, in search for nothing particular, Mya taps her fingers against the buggy, humming along to whatever’s playing lowly on the overhead speakers.

Walking down an aisle that’s adorned with snacks of many forms, she starts picking her poison.

“Funny, seeing you here.” A voice calls out.

With a shake of her head, she turns to face Isaiah.

Instead of his regular business casual, he’s clad in sweats and a T-shirt. He still looked so good.

“If I didn’t know any better, I’d say you were stalkin’ me.”

“As pretty as you are, would you count it as a crime?” He tilts his head.

“You think I’m pretty, huh.” She blinks, tossing her chips into the buggy behind her.

“Indeed.” He flashes a grin so charming and boyish, it almost does her in.

“I think you’re pretty, too.” She giggles, staring into those deep brown pools he’s got for eyes. He joins in on the laughter.

“Look at that, then. Two pretty people in the grocery store.” He fondly shakes his head.

“You’re funny.” Pursing her lips together, she moves around him, picking out something else on the shelf.

“What brings you here?” She asks.

"Came to Charley’s for my usual, ‘fore they shut the hot bar down.”

“You know, I’ve never had the time to try anything from over there. It always looks so good!” She walks back to her buggy empty-handed.

“What??” he asks, almost offended that she’s never eaten any of Charley’s food. “We gotta fix that.”

“We do, yeah?”

“Leave your buggy of sadness, and follow me.” He says, walking away without another word.

Huffing, she tugs on her fitted jeans, keeping somewhat of a distance as she trails behind him, his heavenly scent sparking her unholy thoughts.

 “Sweet Jesus,” she mumbles to herself.

Stopping in the small line, the pair stand shoulder to shoulder, a centimeter of space between them.

“So, what’s your ‘usual’?” She asks, looking up at his handsome face, holding his gaze as he looks down at her.

“Fried chicken, potatoes and macaroni. Good Ol’ southern food.”

“Nothin’ beats it.”

“You said it,” he agrees, heading up to the counter with her in tow.

“There he is! My favorite customer!” Charley greets, her tone all syrupy for the good looking man that loves her food.

“‘Sup, Charley. How’s business?”

“Ah, same ol’ same ol’. I see you brought a friend with you, this time,” her eyes flicker to Mya as she laughs,“I always see you starin’ at the board. Finally made your way over here, huh?”

“That, I did. Sorry, I’m chicken, sometimes.” She laughs, Charley joining in.

“It's alright dear, I love newcomers. The more, the merrier, right? What’ll you have?”

“Well, I heard good things about the fried chicken, potatoes and macaroni. Let’s do that.” Mya says.

“Great choices. Any dessert?”

“Ooh! Whatcha got?”

“Pecan pie, sweet potato casserole and cheesecake.”

“Hm… I’ll take a slice of the pecan pie and some casserole. Might as well indulge, right?”

“My kinda girl,” she smirks, eyes back on Isaiah. “You want ya regular, suga’?”

“You know it.”

“Alright, it’ll be up in a few.” With that, they pay for their meals and move off to the side to wait.

“She seems to be sweet on you.” Mya points out.

“She's married.” He chuckles.

“When has that ever stopped anybody?”

“True, true. But, even if she was, I’m cool.” He says, eyeing her for a minute longer.

After a few minutes, they grab their food and head towards the common area, sitting down at one of the tables.

Opening the styrofoam container, her eyes grow bigger than her stomach.

“Oh, man. This looks so good!” She exclaims. Isaiah chuckles at her adorable facial expression.

“Wait til you eat it.” He says, before digging into his own box.

Pulling the crispy chicken apart with her fork and pairing it with the macaroni, she sticks the forkful in her mouth and dances in her seat.

“See?!”

“Oh my god,” she covers her mouth, nodding in agreement.

They fall into a nice conversation as they indulge.

“Man, that was so good! Thank you for derailing my plans of eating junk food, until I passed out.” She says, as the pair walk towards her car.

“You’re always welcome. Glad I could get you full, on this nice day,” reaching for her hand, he gently holds it in his own. “Let me know if you need any other plans derailed.”

“I sure will.” She blushes, internally pouting when he begins to move away.

“Here, take my number,” she says, as they exchange phones.

“Alright, I got you locked in. You have a good night, pretty.”

“You too, pretty,” she jokes and that smile that she’s grown fond of spreads across his face.

She'd driven the whole way home with an identical smile on her face.

Stepping out of her shoes, she pulls her clothes off, tossing them inside her hamper and pulling on her satin robe.

Turning on her stereo, D'angelo continues playing, from earlier.

Grabbing her glass of wine off the counter, she saunters out to her balcony. A sigh on contentment leaves her, as she stares out at the blue-grey clouds covering the sky, signaling its early changes for the upcoming fall season.

The ringing phone cuts her serene moment short, sending her back towards the kitchen to answer it. It was Isaiah.

“Hello?” she answers, trying to mask her smile.

“Sorry if this is a bad time, I know it’s getting late…but, I couldn’t let the night end, without making sure you got in safe.”

A soft laugh leaves her lips at the sound of his slightly raspy voice.

The butterflies in her stomach triple. Sitting her glass on the counter, she fiddles with the strap on her robe.

“I’m safe and sound, yes. Thank you.”

“Anytime, beautiful.”

“Are you this sweet to everybody?” She questions, picking her wine back and taking a sip.

“Yes, my mama raised me right.”

“Well amen for that,” she says as they share a laugh.

“Do you work tomorrow, if you don't mind me asking?”

“I actually do! How about you?”

“Bright and early, yes ma'am. Sounds like I'll see you tomorrow.”

“Until then, good sir,” she giggles, earning a chuckle out of him.

“Goodnight, pretty lady.”

“Goodnight, pretty man.”

[miyuhpapayuh]

Lmao I'm weak you got beef with her now, too!

The rises and downfalls of group dynamics are at play hard here! Will they get their acts together or will it come to blows?! Find out on the next episode of dragon ball z 🤭

We shall see how this convo goes though... 😗

twenty

“Oh my god, I know it's been a week but where the hell have you been??” Nique asks Zora, right before jumping damn near on top of her outside of her apartment.

“Nique!” She laughs, catching her before they both hit the ground, all the while Leon's coming up with her suitcase, staring between the two like they were crazy.

“What—”

“Lank!” Nique squeals, smacking him up for all the days she wasn't able to. Just like a sister. He chuckles and swats at her, ultimately pulling her into a bear hug.

“Missed you short stuff!”

“Yeah, y'all just left us behind out here!” She laughs, following them into the apartment.

“It was only a week! You didn't miss us that much!” Zora laughs, leaning on her kitchen counter, while Leon plops down on the sofa.

“I did, too! Darnell missed Leon so damn much, he's been tearing my ear up about all the shit they used to get into in college— getting on my nerves, man!” She laughs, making them join in.

“Ah, he done told you about some wild ass shit ain't he?”

“Has he! What's up with y'all and streaking?!”

“I'm not even surprised,” Zora laughs, moving to take her suitcase into her room.

“Man, we was proud of them track bodies, girl! They was gon see us!” He animatedly yells.

“Oh my god,” Nique laughs, rolling her eyes. “How can I save Zora from the madness??”

“It's already too late!” She yells from her bedroom, making them snicker up a storm.

“Stop laughing Nique! It's too late for you, too!”

“Nah for real, y'all treatin’ each other nice?” Leon asks, first time he's asked about their relationship.

“Yeah, he's really a sweetheart. Might like his ass too much,” she laughs, “but that's my baby.”

“Aw, that's cute! I'm happy for y'all.”

“Thanks!”

“Nique, I need assistance right quick!” Zora hollers again, making Nique disappear down the hallway.

“Yes?”

“Are we having a sleepover tonight?”

“Uh, duh! I need to be caught up, cause Neoma told me some things about some things, and I gotta hear it from you to piece it all together.”

“Oh lord. This finna be a mess.”

“My favorite!”

✿°•∘ɷ∘•°✿ ... ✿°•∘ɷ∘•°✿✿°•∘ɷ∘•°✿ ... ✿°•∘ɷ∘•°✿

“Okay, spill!”

“So, before we went on this nice lil vacation, we ran into a little more bullshit. I'm assuming you heard about Craig and Eryn?”

“Have I? Eryn is ready to sink her teeth into that boy! I'm ready to do it for her, cause he knows he's wrong.”

“I agree! He definitely shoulda let them work that out, cause Eryn isn't a child anymore. I think that might've influenced his decision cause they've known her for so long— no excuse. She's grown now.”

“Yeah?? And I don't know how well the conversation between them went, but she still seems kinda sad about it all.”

“Really? I haven't talked to her since we left. But that's another thing! After Leon finds out about everything from Craig, he starts telling me about it, and I already kinda knew about it cause she sat down and told me, like a day or so before.”

“Oh no,” Nique says, shaking her head. “She got you all caught up in it, huh?”

“Yeah, but I'm not mad at her. She just needed advice. Leon did kinda blow up on me, though.”

“Huh??” Nique asks, damn near breaking her neck to look over at her.

“Yeah, he was feelin’ it that day, I don't know.” She shrugs.

“Zora, what do you mean he blew up on you? He yelled at you?”

“No, no. He cut me off while I was trying to talk to him about everything. He asked me if she ran it by me and I told him the truth cause I didn't wanna be in the middle, and he like hopped off the couch and I'm still telling him that I didn't wanna be in the middle cause now he's upset and he's saying that he ain't mad at me, but he also just pacing back and forth and I was kinda nervous, I ain't gon lie. And I'm just tryna reason with him and his fuse is really short, so he cut me off and shut the conversation down.” She sighs, eating another handful of popcorn.

“And then what happened??”

“Oh, he was definitely asking for forgiveness before leaving the crib, but I wasn't up for talking anymore. You don't cut me off and expect a conversation after that. Kissed his ass goodbye and he came to my job the next day with flowers and another apology. I think he almost cried tryna talk to me. Hell, I know I cried enough.” She laughs, while Nique is still staring at her.

“Do I need to kill him?”

“No,” she laughs again, reaching out to grab the hand that's closest to her. “He apologized. Several times. Took me home and made it up to me real nice. He's a good man, just has a temper problem.”

“Hm. I'll keep my guns near, just in case.”

“Lord. He knows not to test it. Trust.”

“Why? You tie him up when y'all got out to that cabin?”

“You're so nasty, no. I definitely taught him what patience is, cause he was killing my nerves.”

“How I'm nasty? I'm talking about straight torture shit! Shoulda muzzled his ass.” She huffs, but Zora shakes her head.

“You know I use my powers for good and not evil… anymore. He understood I wasn't playing. I promise you, he don't want whatever ill fate awaits him if he even thinks about it.”

“Okay, I'll let it go. This time.”

“Good, I'd hate for shorty and lank to call it quits!” She frowns, making Nique smile and shake her head.

“He better be glad I like him a lil bit, cause I'll still kill him. It just won't be as harsh as normal.” She shrugs.

“Girl, anyway. Back to Eryn. I hope she's okay. Maybe I'll call her in a few days.”

“Yeah, poor baby. I had to get your sister together a lil bit, too.”

“Oh no.”

“Oh yes. Done found a lil rockheaded boy to ride and now she lost her mind. Cause why was she bucking up at me cause I told her that she was wrong for giving him the okay to say shit to Leon?! Like I ain't wrong for saying that! Am I?”

“No. Absolutely not, she shouldn't have said anything to him but, “mind your business”, but you know how she is. Lovita is the same way. That older sister complex be havin’ them telling other people's kids what to do. Like how you giving him the go ahead??”

“That's what I tried to get her to make sense to me! Eryn wasn't mad at her, but I told her that she should be. Cause it's too many hands in this situation and she just an extra one that don't belong. Be a girlfriend, nothing more.”

“This really made you mad, huh?”

“Yes. Eryn is twenty five years old. She don't need nobody hovering over her back, snitching on her or whatever other stupid overstepping bullshit has been going on. We had a long heart to heart, cause I just feel like she's just been ridiculed by so many, she just needs some love.”

Zora nods, sighing deeply. “Yeah, I know that feeling. I feel for her, I do. But she did speak up for herself. Leon said she was not happy with him yelling at her, ‘cause she is fragile right now, and that's not the way you get your point across anyway.”

“Good for her! Lank and his friends need to get it together. Neoma needs to get it together before I knock her out.”

“Y'all still beefin’??”

“Nah, I'm just saying. I mean, she was mad as hell when I left but so the fuck what? I shoulda sat in her face while she was mad, but I had a nail appointment.” She raps, while Zora shakes her head, staring at her imaginary audience. “But she got over herself after a day or so. The three of us had lunch and shit like usual, she was fine.”

“Y'all are gonna give me gray hair.”

“Please, if all you have to do is hear about it, I think you'll be okay. Besides, you've been living your carefree life since that boy came into it, so I don't wanna hear it.”

Zora can't help but smile, knowing it was the truth. Besides the minor bump in the road, the last almost year of her life has been absolutely wonderful.

“It's about time, I say.”

“Here, here!” Nique faux toasts with a handful of popcorn.

“Stupid,” Zora laughs.

“And, you know this!”

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“Wow, I forgot how good you looked in your uniform.” Zora says, shamelessly gawking at Leon as he walks around his room to tidy up, before heading off to work.

He chuckles, feeling his face grow hot. “Alright now.”

“For real. I need to come watch you work out now, cause the way them arms are filling out that sweater..” she trails off, shaking her head.

He stops in front of her, beginning to put on a show and flex for her. She giggles, eating it up.

“You like that, huh?”

“Oh, please. Don't start!” She warns, laughing it off as best as she can.

“Don't be shy, baby!” He laughs, bringing his arms down anyway.

“Stop, before I keep you here.” She half jokes, and he can see the seriousness in her deep brown eyes.

“Hm.. I might just have to be a lil late today.” He replied, leaning in to kiss her, unbuttoning her nightshirt.

“Yeah?”

“Just a lil,” he repeats, laughing at himself.

She squeals in excitement, rushing to unbutton his jeans and yank them down with his briefs, moaning at the sight of his dick already hard and ready to go.

“See? This happens every day.” He stresses, stepping closer between her legs to rub against her, his hands at either side of her head.

Reaching between them, she wraps her hand around him, guiding him inside of her, looking up to see his mouth open, eyes stuck on her in pure lust.

“So fucking wet,” he mumbles, languidly stroking just to hear the way her slick smacked through the air. His head dipped down to give wet kisses to her breasts.

“That happens every day, too,” she softly laughs.

His thrusts turn curt, poking right at her gut, making her claw at his arms and chest through the thick material, her wild moans bouncing off the walls of his room.

“Unh! Fuck me, just like that!”

“Mhm, it feels good don't it?”

“Yes! Please don't stop! Please!”

“Shit… I ain't stoppin’ baby… make you cum right on this dick.”

Her fingers ball up the material of his shirt, quickly losing her sanity as he drives right into her spot, bringing them both closer to their peaks.

“You like that, huh?”

“Yes,” she whines, “fuckin’ hitting that spot, babyy!”

“Right here?”

“Yes, I'm so c-close!” She whines, pulling his face closer to hers as he cages her in, his scent evading her senses and vice versa.

“Cum with me,” he moans against her lips, gripping her hips tighter as she squeezes around him, giving him no choice but to give in to the sweet feeling.

“That was amazing,” she breathily laughs, smothering his lips with her own, much to his liking as he groans all into their liplock.

“I wanna be so much later now,” he chuckles, hissing as he slides out of her, still covered in her essence. Their breathing still ragged.

Zora licks her lips and gets on her knees on the bed, bending down to lick him clean. If he didn't have hearts for eyes already, they were definitely there now.

After sending him to work on a high he'd be on for a while, she went back to sleep for a few hours, woke back up and decided to channel her inner Leon and chef it up in his kitchen.

Her omelet was a success.

After a nice long hot shower and hygiene routine, she decided to get her mani/pedi redone. The color is orange.

Zora soon headed through the lounge with Leon's lunch in hand like always, loving the look on his face as he digs through the bag to see what she'd brought.

Today was a Cuban sandwich with fries, and he was more than delighted. “I've been craving one of these!”

“Yeah? I had one on my lunch break the other day, and it was so good! Had to get you one.”

“Thank you, baby.” He says with a kiss to her lips, as she sits down beside him.

“Welcome. How's your day been?”

“Great, actually. We got through most of our pallets already, so I might just get outta here early today.”

“Oh, I always love the sound of getting off work early! I hope you do make it home before six, today.”

This morning gave me a lil extra motivation.” He nudges her with a smirk on his face, as she hides her own.

“Shut up,” she laughs as he wraps an arm around, pulling her closer to him. “But also, you're welcome.”

“Thank you sweet stuff. How's your day off been?” He asks, humming as he bites into his sandwich.

“Well, this morning was great,” she winks, making him chuckle. “But, I took a nap, got up and ate breakfast, then I went and got my toes done— they're orange like my nails, but my feet got cold so I had to put my socks back on. I'll show you later.” She smiles. “I've been laying around, other than that. It's too cold outside to be out there for too long.”

“What did you make?”

“An omelet. It was so good!” She smiles, making him mirror her in no time.

“Yeah?”

“Mhm. I gotta make you one. Use my secret ingredient.”

“Word? Let me find out you were a chef this whole time, Z.”

She laughs. “Oh come on, I'd never steal your lane. It's like a family secret but I add a lil sumn to mine. You'll love it, I promise.”

“I can't wait,” he fondly shakes his head, kissing her lips.

“Can't wait to see these cute ass toes either. Love ‘em.”

“You got a foot fetish?” She squints, to which he laughs.

“Zora, I've got a you fetish.”

“Oh my god,” she laughs to cover up the way she's just melted inside.

“Act like you ain't know,” he shakes his head, taking another couple bites of his sandwich.

“I don't wanna go back out in the cold. It's so bitter out there.” She says, looking out the big window in front of them.

“You ain't lying, babe. It's cold as fuck in the room we work in too. Metal insulation should've been installed a long time ago.”

“You need me to say something?” She asks, raising her brow.

“No, mama, I got it.” He snickers, kissing her forehead. 

“It better be in there by my next visit.” She firms, before leaning on him.

“They like yo pretty ass, ima tell ‘em so they can speed the process up.” He laughs.

“Whatever works, right?” She responds with a laugh of her own.

“Mmhm…whatchu feelin’ on me for, Jean?” He asks with a grin, already knowing what she was up to, rubbing on his knee, her hand casually sliding up.

“Ya know, just the sight of a hardworking man gets me going.”

“Yeah? Where's this hand of yours going?”

The way she licks her bottom lip, biting down on it before it escapes has him ready for whatever.

“I'll be waiting in the bathroom.” She says with a smile, before getting up from the table, leaving him dumbstruck.

She giggles before slipping into the employee bathroom, not having to wait long as he finally makes his way inside, locking the door behind himself.

“Hey.” She says, smirking as he walks them backwards into the counter, her body becoming flush with his, much to her liking.

“What's gotten into you, lately?” He playfully asks, rubbing her hips.

“I don't know, you said to ask for it any time I want it, but I think it's more fun this way.”

He chuckles, before spinning her backwards, her ass now pressed up against his crotch. She smirks at him through the mirror.

“How much time do we have?”

“Mm,” he shrugs. “A good ten minutes.”

“More than enough time.”

Her sweats and panties are pulled down, and he can't help but run his fingers through her slick folds, feeling how unbelievably wet she is.

“Fuck,” he mumbles before squatting down, stuffing his face in between her cheeks, burying his tongue in her.

Her hands find the countertop as she bites back her moans, rolling her hips against his face. He wildly licks her slit, before suckling her clit into his mouth.

“Please… that feels so good!” She quietly whines, reaching back to rub her fingers through his curls.

Her legs begin to shake as he wags his tongue against her, her grip on his hair tightening. Her soft panting is making him strain against his jeans.

“I'm g-gonna cum!” She whimpers, arching and gripping the back of his neck as she does just that, wetting up his nose and mouth with her juices.

He happily licked it up, standing up to yank his own bottoms down, groaning all in her ear as he stuffs himself inside of her, bottoming out. Her lips are pursed together tightly, thankfully muffling her gasp.

“Good ass pussy,” he lewdly moans.

Her eyes stay glued on their reflection, her now mouth agape as he taps that spot over and over again. The way she's squeezing around him feels heavenly.

“Fffuck,” she quietly moans, “hittin’ that fucking spot so good!”

“Yeah? This spot right here?” He taunts, smirking at the way her eyes rolled back, her lips sputtering out a yes.

One hand comes up to grip her neck, “say it again” spilling out of his mouth with a grunt.

“Yeah!— fuck, I'm c-cummin’!” She moans a bit louder than she meant to, quickly biting into her lip to muffle herself as her orgasm rushes through her. His strokes never cease.

“Mmhm, gimme that pussy,” he grunts, nearing his own peak as he gyrates into her, kissing the back of her neck.

“H-holy shit, babe,” she grits, biting down on her lip.

“So fucking close,” he grunts into her ear, digging a bit deeper inside.

She damn near draws blood from her lip by the time he's releasing inside of her, fingers bearing down on her hips, leaving bruises for her to admire later.

“You… are fucking incredible.” He rasps, as they laugh and catch their breaths.

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Eryn’s busy shuffling through the small crowd of people at the mall, when she bumps into a familiar face. Just the person she was hunting for, too.

“And, so we meet again.” Craig says, trying to hide the fact that he might have been laying low, afraid to face her.

She scoffs. “At least we see each other this time.”

“Baby E—”

“Nope.” She cuts him off. “That's the issue, right there. I'm not a baby, Craig. You can't keep doing this shit like I'm that same little girl you knew way back when!”

“Okay, okay, I hear you,” he holds his hands up in surrender. “I was in your business and I'm sorry.”

Eryn rolls her eyes before stepping around him, having no time for his tired apology. But he wasn't gonna stop, now that he'd started.

“Eryn, come on.” He says, walking after her.

“Nah, I'm cool. I don't have time for this.”

“For real? I'm tryna apologize to you—”

“Are you?” She stops and turns in his direction.

“Quit cuttin’ me off.”

“Stop saying stupid shit and maybe I'll refrain.” She spat, crossing her arms over her chest, making her many bracelets clink together.

He stares at her, holding his tongue because she was rightfully upset and now was not the time for banter.

“Look, I'm really sorry. I instantly regretted it after I said it. I even told him to relax on you cause maybe it wasn't as bad as I thought. I know I shouldn't have done it, regardless. It's not my business.”

“No. It's not your business.” She frowns. “Had that man yelling at me like he'd lost his mind. I should kick your ass.”

“I know, I ain't mean to unleash all of that.”

She sucks her teeth. “Yeah, whatever. You wanted him to yell at me like he always does. That shit funny to you or something?”

“No!”

“Hm. Well, are we done here?” She asks.

“Uh yeah.. I guess? I don't think ima say anything to make you not mad at me.”

“No, you're not. Thanks for the apology, though. Just stay out of my business. I'm not your little sister.” She reminds him, before walking away.

“Damn.” Craig sadly mumbles before walking away with a hung head.

Her phone rings and she answers it with a bright smile. “Hey B, wassup?”

“I know you just left, but damn I miss you girl.” 

“Is that right? Maybe I'll swing back that way.”

“Yeah, why don't you do that. I got sumn for you when you get here.”

“If it's dick, you can keep it Brandon.” She laughs, and so does he.

“Come on, it's not like that. I actually got you something.”

“Mmhm, I'm on my way.”

Right after her heart to heart with Leon, she had a separate one with Brandon, in which she admitted her feelings and told him that they would unfortunately have to go their separate ways, to which he did not agree.

He had also developed a crush on her, in the time they had reconnected, and he wasn't gonna deny it just because his ex-best friend happened to be her brother.

He assured her that they would just have to talk it out. Said he was going to reach out to him personally, which she agreed and suggested that he should've done that in the first place, to which he agreed and apologized.

She was ready to face the music a second time, when the time came of course. But for right now, she was going to enjoy herself.

✿°•∘ɷ∘•°✿ ... ✿°•∘ɷ∘•°✿✿°•∘ɷ∘•°✿ ... ✿°•∘ɷ∘•°✿

“I haven't been home before six in so long,” Leon groans into the pillow, while Zora is perched on his lower back as she rubs her hands up and down his sore muscles.

“Getting off early is the best feeling, ain't it!” She laughs, moving up to his shoulder, rubbing his tense spots.

“Why are you so tense, baby?”

“I think I pulled something earlier,” he shrugs, instantly regretting it. Zora shakes her head like he can see her.

“Okay, relax..” she moves off of him, “sit up so I can get that knot out.”

“Yes ma'am.”

Moving behind his seated body, the natural heat between her thighs is warming his bare back. Her fingers relocate the knot in his left shoulder, working to relieve pressure.

His head lolls forward, his hands rubbing the sides of her thighs as she works her magic.

“Damn, that feels good.” He mumbles, eyes closed.

She smiles, dipping down to kiss the back of his neck. He was in pure bliss as her other hand reached for his other shoulder, kneading his skin like precious dough.

“What's the real reason why you're tense, Avery.” Zora asks again.

He sighs. “I don't know, I just feel like something’s going on.”

Her brows furrow. “With what or who?”

“Eryn.”

“Oh.”

“I know she's not a baby and she makes her own decisions. I just feel like… I don't know, I just don't like it.” He sighs again.

“Listen, baby. I know she's your sister and this isn't the ideal situation for either of you I'm sure, but she's gonna have to learn some things on her own. You can only guide her so much. You're only gonna give yourself a headache, worrying about that. I'm sure that if anything is going on, she'll tell you about it, just like she was about to the last time. Let her.”

“I hear you.”

“I'm serious, Avery.”

“I'll let her come to me. I hear you.” He repeats, turning his head to look back at her.

“Don't make me fight you.” She half jokes, mushing his head back in the other direction.

“Fight me naked?”

“That's our type of fight ain't it?” She snickers.

“Huh, you right.” He nods.

“Duh!” She replies without missing a beat, making him suck his teeth and laugh.

“Alright, you're kink free up here now. Please be more careful at work!” She scolds, still rubbing his left shoulder.

“I will, I promise. Now come lay with me.” He says, moving onto his back, and pulling her right down on top of him.

The covers fall over them as they snuggle up and rub their feet together. The heat was blasting through the vents, warming their cold bones right up.

“You think I need a space heater?” He asks, flipping through the channels.

“You be that cold at night?” She asks, drawing imaginary patterns on his right arm, already dozing off.

“Sometimes, yeah. I sleep with socks on like an old man, babe.” He stresses, making her tiredly laugh at him.

“Yeah, I'll get you one, then.”

“Oh, you don't have to do that.” He assures her.

“I want to. Don't fight me on it.” She playfully smacks his cheek, before sliding up to stuff her face into his neck, sighing contentedly.

“You comfy?” He asks, arms draped around her waist, rubbing circles into her hips as he begins to doze off, himself.

“So comfy.” She responds, before going super quiet, and ultimately falling asleep to his scent and the lull of his heartbeat.

Sometime later, after coming back from the bathroom, Leon slides back under the covers and kisses Zora’s forehead, softly laughing at her still being asleep.

Mindlessly scrolling through his phone, his eyes dart up to read the incoming message from Instagram. It was Brandon and he was ready to talk.

Tapping the message before it disappears, he taps across the screen and sends a message back, letting him know he was on his way.

“Z, baby,” he leans over to press kisses to her face, watching her stir slightly and reach out for him with her eyes still closed.

“I gotta head out real quick, baby.”

“Hm,” she stretches, rubbing her face, “where you goin’?”

“Gonna go chat with Brandon.” He simply says, making her eyes finally pop open.

“Before you start scolding me,” he continues, “I'm not gonna beat him up or yell or any of that. I'm going to hear him out, for real.”

She stares at him for a few seconds, before nodding and rubbing her eyes again. She was adorable when she'd just woken up from a nap.

“Okay, be careful. Where are you meeting him?” She asks.

“His crib.” He answers, still hovered over her.

“Okay. Call me when you get there.”

“Yes ma'am. I love you.”

“I love you more.”

It's finna get juicy!

@ghostfacekill-monger @thegifstories @blackerthings @harmshake @brentfaiyazwhore @honestpreference @sheabuttahwrites @essaysbyciara @starcrossedxwriter @blowmymbackout @prettyisasprettydoes1306 @abeautifulmindexposed @henneseyhoe

[miyuhpapayuh]

The ladies getting loved on like they so deserve!! Jane got some special treat, alright 😏🤭

Glad you enjoyed!!

Happy luv day.

“Happy Valentine's Day, beautiful.” Isaiah speaks from behind Mya, a bouquet of pink roses being displayed at her left side.

The gasp that he's grown so very fond of hearing sounds, making him smile big.

“Ohhh, how pretty!!” She squeals, turning around to hug and kiss him before taking the flowers and smelling them.

“I might be weird for loving the smell of roses,” she giggles as he runs a hand through her newly straightened hair.

“What's normal, anyway?” He asks. She shrugs, mentioning that he had a good point.

“Happy Valentine's Day, handsome. I've got something for you, too.” She says, before heading into his living room to retrieve a red box, and back into the kitchen.

Sitting it inside his hand, she smirks at the look on his face.

“Cartier?!”

“Mmmhm!” She nods excitedly.

“Babe,”

“Open it.”

He blows a breath and opens the box, unable to stop the gasp that leaves him as he stares at the shiny gold bracelet with a single diamond in the middle.

“Woah.. this is wicked!” He exclaims, holding it up to examine it.

“You like it, for real?” She asks, nervously chewing on her lip.

“What? I love it. I don't have too many jewelry pieces, but ima wear this one!” He nods, placing it back inside the box and reaching for her hand, pulling her to him.

“Every date we have, I'm gonna wear it.” He says, kissing her forehead.

“Good, cause it wasn't cheap!” She jokes, making him laugh and wrap her up in a sweet hug, they fall into a sway without fail.

“I love you, sweets.”

“I love you too, honeydew.”

“Let's see it on you!” She jumps, grabbing the bracelet from the box and cuffing it around his wrist.

“Oooh,” they say in unison, taking a moment to laugh.

“We spend too much time together,” he jokes.

“Ya think?” She laughs, going back to staring at the gold against his bronze skin.

“Just like I thought,” she nods, “it's so sexy!”

“Always a motive, yeah?” He raises an eyebrow.

“Hm.,” she pulls his hand to her neck, smirking as his fingers wrap around.

“What's it lookin’ like from up there?”

“Like I'm ‘bout to test it out.” He mumbles, squeezing just to mess with her.

“Mm. When?”

“When you least expect it,” he winks and unhands her.

“Now, come get your real gift cause the flowers were just a starter,” he says, waltzing back through the open area to his living room with her close behind.

“A starter?? Oh dear.” She holds her chest, before sitting down beside him on the sofa.

A white box is placed in her hands and she immediately pops it open, damn near losing her breath at the sparkly silver band with a heart-shaped red crystal in the middle.

“Oh.. wow, this is beautiful.” She frowns, as he takes it from the box and slides it onto her left ring finger, watching it sparkle back at him.

“Promise rings might be cliché, but I wanted to get you one anyway.” He smiles, wiping the tiny tear from the corner of her eye.

“You've got my heart already, but just in case you needed an extra reminder of just how deep our sweet love runs…” he trails off, making her smile and press her forehead to his.

“I love you.”

“You better!” He says, pulling her into a bear hug as she giggles at him.

─── · 。ﾟ☆: .☽ . :☆ﾟ. ────── · 。ﾟ☆: .☽ . :☆ﾟ. ────── · 。ﾟ☆: .☽ . :☆

“Happy Valentine's Day!” Taylor bursts into her and Teddy's shared bedroom with balloons and a present in hand.

He rubs his eyes and smiles at the sight of his bubbly girlfriend.

“Happy love day, snookums.”

“I got you something!” She plops down on the bed and hands him the bag, cheesing as he pulls the blue tissue paper from the bag and peeks inside.

“Aw, another bong!” He pulls it from the bag, marveling at the sea green and deep purple marble-esque swirls covering the piece.

“You like it??”

“Absolutely! I love ‘em. Where do you be getting these from?”

“Nope, can't tell you! It's been a well kept secret for three years, and I don't want that look on your face to ever leave so no you cannot know!” She stresses, making him laugh.

“Okay, alright. Keep your lil funky secret.” He teases and her eyes get to rollin’, like clockwork.

“Fine, I'll take my lil funky gift back, then!”

“I'm just playing, baby cakes.”

“Mmm.” She hums, stubbornly welcoming the kisses he presses to her face and lips.

“I've got something for you, too.”

“Do you?” She clasps her hands together, as if he wasn't always showering her with gifts.

“Of course! What kind of man would I be?!” He asks, before moving from the bed to their walk-in closet, retrieving the Valentino box.

Taylor’s brows almost reach her hairline as she watches him sit the box in her lap.

“Valentino?!”

“That's what it says, yeah!” He laughs, motioning for her to open it up.

“If this is the pair I've been eyeing, I swear..” She trails off and pops the lid off, pulling the tissue paper back and screaming at the sight of the orange platforms.

“No you did not!” She exclaims in disbelief, holding up the gorgeous shoe.

“Of course I did, baby!” He speaks, quickly catching her in his arms as she lunges herself at him.

“Thank you, thank you, thank you!” She squeals, kissing all over his face.

“You're more than welcome, sweet thang. I love you.” He says, making her heart soar.

“I love you, too!” She pouts as he leans in to kiss her.

“I know I've been a bit of a jerk lately, and I need to work on that cause you're important to me..” He speaks, sitting her back on the bed. “It's just hard when you've never had someone teach you things like patience and understanding. But, I'm trying.”

Taylor sighs, pulling his hands into hers as he kneels in front of her. Staring at his handsome face, she can see the little boy inside that's just so misunderstood.

“As long as you're trying to be the best you can be, I won't complain or leave your side. Teddy, I love you with everything I've got in me.”

“I know, and it sucks when I feel like I'm not giving you the same kind of love back. I don't want you to walk out that door again.”

“I won't, as long as you do right by me. Stop giving me attitude, don't shut me out, listen..” she trails off as they share a laugh.

“I got you, baby.” He says, kissing their joined fingers.

“I got you too, Teddy bear.”

─── · 。ﾟ☆: .☽ . :☆ﾟ. ────── · 。ﾟ☆: .☽ . :☆ﾟ. ────── · 。ﾟ☆: .☽ . :☆

Mercedes is currently sitting in a full-body massage chair, taking in the view of the beach before her, through the gigantic windows of the private Villa.

“I still can't believe I'm here.” She laughs to herself.

Noah steps into the room and rounds the chair, handing her a glass of wine and turning the vibration down on her chair to avoid any accidents.

“The best for best.” He speaks, winking at her.

“Thank you,” she says, peering at him over her glass.

The pair had only been dating for two months and everything was peachy keen, which made Mercedes a little apprehensive towards Noah when it came to certain things.

He'd call her on his way to and from work, and she'd fallen into the groove of returning the thoughtful gesture.

The first time he told her how much he liked her, you'd think the girl had a stroke, the way she stared at him, stuttering over her words.

He made her nervous, but in a butterflies in the stomach kinda way, which she wasn't too fond of due to her own trauma with men.

To her, that was just anticipation for the fall, and it always came so hard. So heavy.

And then it would end so fast. So painful.

But, Noah was making a believer out of her. Slowly, but surely.

Maybe she could learn how to be at ease and allow somebody to treat her the best, in all the ways she should be.

“I thought I'd show you something different, ya know?” Noah starts, sitting down in the chair next to hers, but leaning over and looking in her direction.

“You ain't never been out here, before.. it's a holiday, so it's especially important that I show my appreciation for you, even giving me a chance,” he smiles, making her do the same and look away from him.

“Look at me, mama,” he reaches over to softly grab her chin, pulling her playful gaze back to him.

“You enjoyin’ yourself?”

“I always am, these days.”

“Good, we gon keep it that way.”

“Either that or I'm gone.” She says before putting her glass back up to her lips.

─── · 。ﾟ☆: .☽ . :☆ﾟ. ────── · 。ﾟ☆: .☽ . :☆ﾟ. ────── · 。ﾟ☆: .☽ . :☆

As expected, Gina was no different when it came to dealing with Chris.

Running him through a six month trial before he could even be seen with her in public.

He was never shaken by it. He understood her hesitation, before she'd ever given him a reason.

“You don't have to tell me, but I'm here if you ever want to.” Is something she grew fond of hearing.

Her guard was let down on the fifth month, but pride wouldn't allow her to say what they'd already non-verbally confirmed.

Now that it was out of the bag, he never let a day go by where she wasn't shown how much he appreciated, adored and cared for her.

“Whose shop did you buy out?!” She gasps, staring at the six dozen orange roses, chilling in her living room.

“I've my connections,” he winks, wrapping her up in a new throw blanket.

“Oh my gosh, no you didn't.” She shakes her head, holding the soft material up to her face and purring like a kitten.

“Yes, my little minx. I did.” He kisses the top of her head.

“Ugh, I'm gonna have one in every color, messing with you! Thank you,” she pouts, welcoming the three kisses he places on her lips.

“You're welcome.”

─── · 。ﾟ☆: .☽ . :☆ﾟ. ────── · 。ﾟ☆: .☽ . :☆ﾟ. ────── · 。ﾟ☆: .☽ . :☆

Trixie and Jane sit inside a cozy café, tucked away from the rain.

“I'm glad you decided to spend the weekend with me,” Trixie says, her index finger drawing a random line on top of Jane's hand.

Trixie spent all of two hours begging Jane to let her fly her out to New York for the weekend, promising to show her more than a good time.

“Well, with the way I was treated last time, you make it hard to decline.” Jane responds, her eyes darting from their hands, back to her pretty face.

Gosh, was she pretty.

“I try my best to be a good host,” she nods with a laugh.

“You do a wonderful job, no doubt!”

“You're such good company, you make it easy on me to do you right.” She admits, turning both of their cheeks rosy.

Sickening, right?

─── · 。ﾟ☆: .☽ . :☆ﾟ. ────── · 。ﾟ☆: .☽ . :☆ﾟ. ────── · 。ﾟ☆: .☽ . :☆

Back to our lovebirds on their first Valentine's Day together.

Mya's currently sitting in her vanity chair with Isaiah at her feet, painting her toes.

She'd been giggling for the last few minutes, driving him crazy in the cutest way.

“Why?” He asks, unable to stop his own laugh from coming out.

“It's just so cute,” she says, blushing as he blows on them to dry the polish down.

Spoiled had nothing on the way he treated her.

“And before you say it, no, I'm still not used to this.” She laughs, causing him to lift his free hand up in surrender.

“I wasn't even gonna say it, babe. I got you.” He nods, his eyes lingering on hers for a moment, seeming to last longer than the 30-second dry down time on the bubblegum pink bottle.

She was the first one to drop her gaze to his lips, out of the shyness that he still pulls from her.

“Thank you,” she starts, and he's still looking at her face, knowing there's more on the tip of her tongue.

“Anytime.”

“Seriously, there's never a day that goes by where I'm wondering– about anything! It's nice to relax in love, but there's always a part of me that's kinda apprehensive still, ya know?”

“Yeah,” his hand wraps around her ankle, as a means to get closer to her as she expresses herself in a way she rarely has around him.

“I know I don't talk about it too much, but it means a lot to me when you go the extra mile to make me happy, and it's also important that you notice the little things and you never make me feel crazy or stupid for how I feel. I can be me around you and I haven't been able to do that in a man's presence in so long.”

Her watery eyes no longer know where to land, and he's right there to snap her out of her own head.

“You're safe here.” He assures, which breaks her dam a bit; those tears spill from her brown eyes, and he's kneeled beside her in the next second, wiping them away.

“I don't like crying,” she laughs through tears.

“I don't like it either, but it's better than holding it in.”

“Yeah, I know.” She smiles, her hands coming up to cuff his wrists as his thumbs continue to wipe away her tears.

Soon he's just stroking the soft skin of her face, going back to staring at her in awe.

“You're safe here”, he repeats, feeling her melt into the palms of his hands.

“I love you.” She says, feeling like she's admitting it for the first time, all over again.

“I love you, too. So much.”

“You've got a safe space in my heart, too.. in case you didn't know.” She adds, making his own skip a beat.

“I cherish it forever, sweets.”

“Good! Cause I'd have to kill you at this point,” she half jokes. “You've seen me cry too many times.”

He shakes his head, his shoulders slightly bounce with laughter.

“I wouldn't dream of doing anything to hurt my baby.”

“Mmhm,” She nods.

“I'd kill whatever hurt you, in fact.”

Her brow raises, an identical smile on their faces.

“You're alright with me, Isaiah.”

─── · 。ﾟ☆: .☽ . :☆ﾟ. ────── · 。ﾟ☆: .☽ . :☆ﾟ. ────── · 。ﾟ☆: .☽ . :☆

I do my Sunday dreaming, oh yeah

And all my Sunday scheming

Every minute, every hour, every day

Oh, I'm hoping to discover

A certain kind of lover

Who will show me the way

And my arms need

Someone, someone to enfold

To keep me warm when Mondays

And Tuesdays grow cold

Love for all my life to have and to hold

Oh, and I want a Sunday kind of love

The two dance around his living room to the sweet music; her bare feet on top of his, cheek to cheek, with her arms perched on his shoulders and his hands at her back.

The happiness glows from inside of them both, reflecting in everything they do.

Easier to communicate,

to feel,

to share,

to fall,

to love,

to be.

“Everyday feels like Sunday with you,” she hums, squeezing him tighter.

“Easy like the morning time?” He asks, holding onto her like she'd dare slip away.

“Exactly!” She smiles, thankful they weren't facing each other and she could blush at the open space before her in peace.

She hums along to the music as it changes; each song on the playlist is sweeter than the last.

And with each song she hummed along to, he fell deeper in love with the sweet sound of her voice.

“I know you love when I sing, but god, you sound like an angel.” He says.

Unsticking their cheeks, he stares down at her and she's quick to press her face into his chest, knowing her cheeks are rosied over something terrible.

And he knew it too, as he pried her from him just to rub it in.

She slaps his hands away, before pointing to his face, which held its own red tint.

“Are you blushing?” She pinches his cheek like she'd seen his mama do a thousand times.

“No,” he laughs.

“Yeah,” she mocks.

“Come on, you know seein’ you happy makes me happy.” He says.

“Yeah?” She asks.

“Yeah,” he mocks, making her laugh.

“You wanna know something?” She asks, playing with the collar of his shirt.

“Always,”

“You make me the happiest I've ever been.” She admits, staring back up at him now.

“Really?” He asks, going back to holding her like she'd slip away, which makes her feelings towards him even fuzzier.

“Isaiah,” she scoffs a laugh. “I've just told you that you're the first man I can relax around. I'm safe. I'm in love with you, you're my best friend. You make me laugh, you wipe my tears away. You always know what to say. Sometimes, there's nothing to fill the space with but you, and you've got it. Every time.” She explains, and he feels his own chest grow tight with emotion.

“So yes, you make me the happiest I've ever been.” She repeats, poking his hard chest.

“What about this apprehension?” He asks, rubbing her back before the tension sets in.

“I know today's supposed to be light, so we don't have to talk about it.. I'm just curious.” He assures.

“It leaves, every time you hold me. Every time you look at me. Cause I see you. All of you.” She answers.

He presses a kiss to her forehead, never taking his eyes off her face.

“See, it's things like that.” She smiles, stroking his cheek. “I wanna tell you everything about my past, and how sad I used to be and how I never thought I'd get moments like this with the man of my literal dreams— I've got pretty ugly scars,” she sighs, wiping a nagging tear away before he could catch it, himself, “but I know that you mean what you say. I can feel it here.” 

She takes one of his hands and places it on her heart, unable to stop the second batch of tears from cascading down her cheeks.

“I know I don't have to be afraid anymore.”

Heaving a heavy sigh, he closes the space between them and wraps her back up in his arms, kissing her hair and reaffirming everything she'd just said to him.

“No, you don't have to be afraid anymore.”

“You can fall, cause I'm always here to catch you.”

“You're safe here, I promise.”

“I'll do anything for you.”

“I love you.”

─── · 。ﾟ☆: .☽ . :☆ﾟ. ────── · 。ﾟ☆: .☽ . :☆ﾟ. ────── · 。ﾟ☆: .☽ . :☆

The constant flicker of the candles sound, blending in with the soft snores from Isaiah and the scratching of Mya's pen across the page.

Sweeter than the potatoes in my pie,

The stars in my sky.

You, me.

Together.

Hopefully forever.

But if it's just for a little while,

I'll smile.

If it's for a little longer,

I'll hold you tighter.

A few more days,

I'll find more ways to tell you..

I feel at home.

At peace.

At ease.

Your heartbeat is my favorite lullaby.

Your arms are my security blanket.

Your lips are pillows,

bouncing every cushion-y word off onto me.

No faux, all real.

So real.

I love you,

Honeydew.

Happy luv day.

@thegifstories @blackerthings @blackpinup22 @blackburnbook @unfriendlyblkhotti3 @sheabuttahwrites @soufcakmistress @blowmymbackout @mauvecherie-writes @harmshake @nahimjustfeelingit-writes @nayaxwrites @cecereads209 @abeautifulmindexposed @twistedcharismaaa @awerkofart @uzumaki-rebellion @theficplug

[miyuhpapayuh]

Right, she's grown so much! And so has he!

They really are in the place to be! In the seats, in the positions! At the top, together! It's so beautiful to witness.

Oh girl, don't you worry, a fire is gon be lit under her ass cause she's gotta know she's got it! She has to know that she's it! It's finna be so fun watching her confidence really grow!

And thank you, ugh I could cry! Again 🤭 thank you so much for the support fren I really appreciate it 💜 glad you enjoyed!

And, the fun begins.

The first couple weeks flew by as everybody settled into their new roles. No more paperwork for the hardest working crew in Charlotte, and they were all about showing off their craft, now that they had added credits to their names.

Isaiah was spewing out ads like a madman, with his new and improved logo that Sabrina helped him create. It was still an eye, but way more detailed and super 3D.

Mya was definitely proud of him, as he was of her, since she'd finally gotten her hands on the contacts she needed to send her ad to Allura.

Jane was definitely wreaking havoc in senior marketing, especially since she's getting to train the protégés her way.

“Are you sure this looks alright? It's not too much?” Mya asks Mercedes, which might as well have been an insult with the way she looks at her.

“Girl, you worry too much. Allura’s building is black and pink. Their magazine is the flashiest thing we've ever seen, right??”

“Right! It doesn't like we're biting their style or anything?”

“No! It's our own personal style, too! Plus, it's flattery without doing too much. Relax.” She assures her, roughly patting her shoulder.

Mya sighs, continuing to add to the text box in the top left corner. “Okay, sorry.”

“It's okay, I might kick your ass before this is all over, but it's still love.”

“Girl. What's our tagline?”

“Paintin’ the town the pink!”

“Oooh, I like!”

“I know! It's like I'm your left-hand girl or something!” She cheeses, making Mya laugh.

“Oh, she laughs! I thought you weren't capable of such a function, anymore.”

“Sorry,” she sighs, looking up at her best friend. “I know I've been kinda on edge lately, but this is so huge! Like if we really get this to them and they like it??”

“They're gonna love it, Mya paya! Plus, we're about to send it, so take a minute to look over it and make sure it looks like you want it to and then hit that send button, friend! We're doing this!”

Mya cheeses just as wide as Mercedes, holding her arms open for a hug. With a playful roll of the eyes, she hugs her extra tight.

“Thanks for putting up with me.”

“Of course! You're worth the trouble!”

And, she was.

─── · 。ﾟ☆: .☽ . :☆ﾟ. ────── · 。ﾟ☆: .☽ . :☆ﾟ. ────── · 。ﾟ☆: .☽ . :☆

Savannah was currently on the phone with the one and only, Rose, the creator of her and Mya's favorite magazine.

“Well, I appreciate you reaching out! I had no idea my lil piece of a building even stretched your way.”

“Piece of?! Miss Savannah, when I tell you, before the remodel was even through, I thought your place was so perfect for new creatives! Anywhere their imagination will take them, there's always a chair and a screen for ‘em. I absolutely love that. And, after the remodel, it made me fall in love with it all over again. That Mya Jones is one talented woman!”

“Isn't she?? I'm so grateful for her, and all my talented babies. Had to promote them as soon as we got back in this fancy behind building!”

“Please extend my congratulations to them all, that's so wonderful!”

“I definitely will!”

“Now, how long did the remodel take?”

“Give or take? Less than two months. I'd been looking into it for some time, so the floor plans were already done, I had a crew on standby and even though the holidays were busy, we were able to get it together!”

“Yes, indeed. We've looked at this spread like a trillion times and color me impressed, if I haven't already said it. The makeover is beautiful. Absolutely.”

“Again, I really appreciate your words. I'm inspired by you and your magazine, so this is a dream!”

“Oh, thank you! That means a lot coming from you!"

And I have a proposition for you.”

“Really??”

“Absolutely! Simone and myself are coming up with a new segment in our magazine for brown women to share their success stories and we wanna feature you and Mya. Hell, we’ll add in other brown women from Abstraction, too!”

“Oh, she's gonna love that! The girl’s been dying ever since I told her about our phone interview!”

And once she got her protégé in her office to share the exciting news, did Mya and Mercedes go up like she thought they would.

“Oh, I love that!” Mya squeals, making Savannah laugh.

“I knew you would!”

“It's even funnier, because that ad’s sitting in their inbox right now, just waiting to be peeked at! Oh, they're really gonna feature y'all, then!” Mercedes claps, over the moon excited for the two.

“I can only imagine the magic you two made!”

“You wanna see it?!”

“Uh, yeah!”

─── · 。ﾟ☆: .☽ . :☆ﾟ. ────── · 。ﾟ☆: .☽ . :☆ﾟ. ────── · 。ﾟ☆: .☽ . :☆

Isaiah and Mya are currently sitting in their makeshift pillow fort, a new favorite of theirs, sharing the events of their day over Chinese takeout.

“I'm so proud of you, babe.” He says, beaming just as much as she, at the wonderful news.

“Thank you! Ugh, I've been waiting for moments like this, all my life!” She gushes, shaking her head in amazement.

“I know what you mean! It's so cool to be in places we've only dreamt of.” He says, eating another forkful.

“Right, it's so surreal. Like, this time next week, we'll actually be in the same room as The Rose Pratt and Simone Carson?! I could faint.”

As soon as she said it, the look on his face made her crack up and take it back. “Okay, sorry. I won't actually faint, babe. It was just an expression.”

“Mmm. Ima put you in a headlock.” He jokes with a shake of his head.

“What, naked?” She asks, snickering to herself.

“Mya, behave.”

“Please, when have I ever?” She asks, looking at him with a raise of her brow.

He chuckles, shaking his head. “You're absolutely right.”

“Well behaved women rarely make history. Remember that.”

“I'll never forget it.”

“Good. Now, has the promotion settled in??” She excitedly asks.

“I believe so, yeah,” he scratches the back of his neck. “It's so much more responsibility but man, it's so much more worth it at the end of every day now. Like, before I was part of a team and just trying to put my contribution out there, but I'm now the head of that team. They answer to me and run their ideas by me, and I've got the notion to either make it or break it. That's huge.”

Mya beams at her boyfriend, knowing he's been waiting for such a big break.

“I'm so proud of you, ‘saiah. Nobody's more deserving.”

“Well, that's not true. I've always said that outta the two of us, you deserve this so much more than me, but I'm glad we both made it to the top. It's better this way.”

“I agree! Besides, I think we woulda found a way to pull the other up the ladder.”

“That's also true. Can't leave my honey behind!” He winks, making her blush.

“Aw, come here, you!”

Sitting their food containers down, they get a little closer under the blanket they were sharing. Many sweet kisses are shared.

“I love you.”

“And, I love you.”

─── · 。ﾟ☆: .☽ . :☆ﾟ. ────── · 。ﾟ☆: .☽ . :☆ﾟ. ────── · 。ﾟ☆: .☽ . :☆

“Ooh, what do we have here?!” Simone says, leaning her chin on her palm, as she clicks on the email from Mya and Mercedes.

Her eyes widen as nothing but pink flashes back at her. Cheetah print this, tiger stripe that. Flashing lights pop across the screen just as a video begins to play, featuring Mya and Mercedes, giving their names, new and improved job titles and long list of accomplishments, along with a shoutout to their degrees because it's actually gotten them very far.

Simone giggles at the sight, knowing the duo were a riot once Rose reported back from her phone call with Savannah.

“We would love it if you gave us the opportunity of a lifetime, cause it's just that serious to me and my homegirl,” Mercedes says, earning a slap from Mya, who waves in the background.

“Look at her, she's so excited she can't control herself! Even if you don't choose us for your ad, we appreciate you opening and watching. We know we're a hoot! Okay, bye!”

Watching it back twice, Simone definitely made her decision. Hell, it was already made about a week ago. She was just as much of a fan of Mya, as Mya was a fan of her. And now that she's thrown her left-hand girl into the mix, it was a match made.

Just wait til she tells Jada. The magic that they'll make!

The next thing they knew, Mya and Mercedes were getting a call from Simone, herself, letting them know how much she appreciated their spunky ass ad.

“Really?! It wasn't too much?!”

“Of course not! In the words of Miss Mercedes, it was flattering as hell! I had no idea we were so flashy, but it definitely tracks!” Simone giggles, making Mya feel so much better.

“Wow, this is huge! So you picked us, then?” Mercedes asks for clarification.

“Absolutely. Nobody else really caught my eye like you two. We're doing this, babes!”

They both scream and jump up and down, like they just won the lotto. Beyond excited.

“Oh my gosh, you have no idea what this means to us, seriously.” Mya says, fanning her teary eyes.

“Yes, thank you, thank you, thank you!”

“Oh, it's not a problem dolls! It's honestly a pleasure to work with such fresh faces!”

“Oh, we're fresh faces, Mya paya!”

“I heard!”

“Okay, ladies.” Simone laughs at the two, “we're gonna fly you both out, early next week for the interview and the rest of the itinerary will be posted closer to the time.”

“Wow, this is really happening.” Mya says.

“I told you!” Mercedes quips, making Simone laugh again.

“Oh, this is gonna be fun, ladies.”

Getting over my writer's funk has been a journey, y'all. A. Journey. I'm so glad I was able to open this back up and get something down. The next chapter is gonna be so much fun, I can't wait to start writing for it! But, I hope y'all enjoy! Thanks so much for reading. 🧡

@thegifstories @sheabuttahwrites @ghostfacekill-monger @abeautifulmindexposed @awerkofart @prettyisasprettydoes1306 @honestpreference @nahimjustfeelingit-writes @blackerthings @cecereads209 @blowmymbackout @mauvecherie-writes

[miyuhpapayuh]

Update!!!

Good o'l southern charm.

Nice to meet ya

Back at the office

We're goin' out tonight

Butterflies

Lovers and friends

[miyuhpapayuh]

Update <3333

Good o'l southern charm.

Nice to meet ya

Back at the office

We're goin' out tonight

Butterflies

[megamindsecretlair]

Oh I absolutely love this. Conversation flowed easily. They got each other laughing. Oh that kiss was so sweet. This is a fave for sure. Just so light and wonderful 😍😍😍

we're goin' out tonight.

Sitting inside of the ever bright lounge area of Tropic, the pair ogle at each other from across the table.

Both equally surprised on how good the other looks, outside of work.

“You look really pretty this evening.” Isaiah breaks the anxiety-driven silence, Mya’s brown eyes lift towards him.

“Thank you. You look really handsome, yourself.” She replies, smoothing her clammy hands over her dress.

With autumn quickly approaching and the sun's warmth wearing off, Mya decided to wear her favorite mustard toned mini dress, one last time.

Coincidentally, Isaiah's button down almost matched the color of her hair, but on a toned down level.

“Thank you for the flower, by the way.” She says as she fiddles with the orange tulip in her lap.

“My pleasure. I didn’t know if you liked tulips or not.”

“They’re actually my favorite flower, so you’re doing great,” she laughs.

His brows raise. “Are they really?”

“Yeah!” she exclaims, feeling her nerves subside, just enough for her to relax. “I’ve loved ‘em ever since I was a kid.”

“Mind if I pat myself on the back?” He jokes, his infectious smile coming out to play.

She giggles, sipping on her spiked lemonade.

“So, tell me about yourself, Isaiah.”

“What do you wanna know, Miss Mya?”

“I’ll take anything you’re willing to share with me.” She truthfully responds.

“Well,” he clears his throat, “I’ve been here for almost ten years. I moved to Charlotte for a job opportunity, but I didn’t end up getting it. So, I slept on my cousin’s couch, until I found an apartment and a new plan,” he laughs to himself, “and I landed in front of Abstraction. Place is really cool, I’ll admit.”

“Yeah, it is. Do you mind me asking how rough it was to go through that? Especially not having a place of your own?”

“It was hell, man. Absolutely. I felt like I was starting all over, again. But, I grew up in a home where you had to fight for what you wanted, so I did just that.” He smiles, but she can see the pain flicker in his eyes.

“Well, I’m glad you made it out of that. That says a lot about your character.”

“Good things?” He asks with a grin.

“Good things, yes.” She mirrors his expression.

His eyes wander around the wide area, internally grateful that the place was as great as he heard it would be.

“This place is a whole lot nicer than I thought it would be,” he remarks, drinking his own bourbon sour.

“I was just about to say, this place is so cute! They’ve even got a disco ball out there.” She points towards the dance floor.

“Let’s get out there and dance, at some point. Yeah?”

Feeling the butterflies come back, she chews on her lip.

“Yeah. I’d like that.”

“Me too.” He smiles.

“Now, it’s your turn. What do I get to know about you, besides the fact that you’re as pretty as you are?” He leans forward.

“I think your mission is to make my cheeks fall by the end of this date. Cut it out,” she laughs.

Holding a hand up in defeat, he bows out. “I quit, but I'm listening.”

“Well, I’m as boring as they come. Honestly. I’ve got an older sister. She’s a pain in the ass, but the girl can cook like our grandma, so we keep her around.”

Isaiah laughs, making Mya do the same.

“Seriously! I wanna kill her, sometimes… but then she makes apple pie and I like her again. Siblings are weird. Do you have any?”

“Two. Older sister and younger brother. Both, equally a pain in my ass, as well.”

“Oh, not the middle child!” she frowns, coyly reaching across the table for his hand. “Please don’t tell me that you guys actually get overlooked.”

“No, we don’t get overlooked,” he covers her hand with his own, patting the back of it. “If anything, we’d be the ones that you remember more.” His eyes flash to hers

Her heart thuds in her chest as she reaches for her drink, taking another sip.

“But, back to you. I’ve always been curious about something, but I don’t know how to ask you without it sounding… invasive.”

“Try me.”

“How often do you change the color of your hair?”

“That’s actually one of my favorite questions to answer,” she claps her hands, “I’m a situational type of person, when it comes to dying my hair.”

“Meaning?”

“I either need a reason to dye it or I’ll just dye it for no reason at all, other than the fact that I’m bored. It’s not like every four months or anything healthy. It’s more like every other month.” He nods at her explanation.

“How long does it take you?”

“It depends on what color I’m dying it.” She giggles.

“If you were dying it purple?” He quizzes.

“Oh! Let’s see,” she stares up at the starred ceiling, her thoughts aligning. “Since my hair is red, I could probably get away with just dumping purple dye on top of it, with some assistance of course. It’ll take me, maybe, an hour or so.”

“Impressive. What about green?”

“You know, I’ve never tried anything that wild, besides pink and that ended in a catastrophe. I wore scarves for two months.” She shakes her head.

“I’m sure it still looked great.”

“No, it was really bad. Mercedes and Taylor gave me hell for weeks!”

“Friends,” he sighs. “They push those buttons, like no one else.”

“Make you wanna commit crimes,”

His laugh rang through her ears at a louder level. “You wanna do jail time?”

“My motto is no face, no case. If they can’t identify me, they can’t catch me.” She shrugs.

Amused, he takes another swig of his drink. “That’s funny.”

“Thank you. I keep my comedic card on standby,” she jokes, twiddling her thumbs underneath the table.

“So, you got friends that get on your nerves, too, huh?” She asks.

“Oh, yeah,” he nods. “Jane— you know her, right?”

“Short hair? Nose ring? Very sarcastic?”

“Yeah, that’s her,” he grins, “she’s a handful. But, she was the first person that I met, when I got to Abstraction. She, very roughly, took me under her wing and we’ve been cool, ever since.”

“She’s very sweet, but she don’t take no shit.” She laughs, him agreeing all the same.

“That’s why I stick by her. Don’t get me wrong, I can handle my own, but it’s funny when you’ve got a mini fighter tryna handle it for you.”

“She fights you too, doesn’t she?”

“She fights everyone.” He stresses, making her laugh, once more.

“A brash friend is needed, ya know?”

“I’ll drink to that.”

He holds his glass up, as she does the same. The cliché clinking of their glasses makes her giddy, as well as the alcohol that’s flowing through her bloodstream.

“I’m such a lightweight, I should probably stop now.” She says, finishing off her drink. He gives her an incredulous look as she does so.

Reaching out for her hand as he stands from the table, Isaiah leads her down the short steps to the dance floor.

“Let's go dance, pretty.”

Jonz in my bonz by D’Angelo is the soundtrack to their first dance.

“Man, I ain’t heard this song in years,” he remarks, Wrapping his arm around her waist.

“I actually just added this to my playlist, a few days ago.” She rests her hands on his broad shoulders, fighting the urge to squeeze.

“A woman with taste! How refreshing.”

The sultry beat captures their hips, pulling them closer to one another.

She hums in response, her eyes linger on his face. “I’ve wanted to tell you this, since the day you saved me from falling on my face… you smell so good.”

Looking down at her, his grin spreads across his cheeks. “Thank you,” he leans down to her ear, talking over the music, “you always smell good.”

A chill rushes up her spine at him being so close to her, all the while giving her compliments. 

“Always?”

Still close to her ear, he continues to speak. “Yeah… kinda smells like sandalwood.”

“It is!” she playfully hits his chest, slyly copping a feel of how hard it is. “You’ve got a good nose on you, sir.”

He hums a laugh, returning to his upright position.

What I wouldn't do to get next to the things that were meant fo’ me..

Getting completely lost in the music, Isaiah's hands sit dangerously low on his backside, seconds away from copping a feel of his own.

Their eyes on each other, as they continue to sway.

The song fades into another smooth jam, giving him the courage to spin her around in his hold, smiling at her rosy cheeks.

“Havin’ fun?” He asks.

“So much fun,” she hums. “I hope you are, too.”

“Most fun I’ve had in a while.”

“A while? We gotta get you out, more.” She states.

“Yes ma’am.” He agrees.

Continuing to dance the evening away, the pair end up back at her doorstep.

“I had fun tonight.”

“Yeah, me too.”

Their fingers intertwined, the smiles on their faces are both pure, and slightly blitzed.

“Thank you, again, for allowing me to show you a good time.”

“Of course. It’s been a minute since I let my hair down.” She giggles.

“Let’s do it again, some time?”

She nods, her eyes falling to his lips.

“I’d like that.”

Having the same thought on his brain, he leans down to press his lips against hers.

A wave of relief washing over him as she kisses him back.

Mya innocently leans into him as he takes her breath away, almost pouting as he begins to pull away.

“I’m not gonna lie… I’ve been wanting to do that, since the first day I saw you.” Isaiah admits, their eyes back on each other.

“I’ve wanted you to do that, since the first day I saw you.” She breathily laughs.

Unlocking her door, they share one more kiss before departing for the evening.

“Goodnight, pretty.”

“Goodnight, pretty.”

Finally able to let out her squeal behind the closed door, she rushes to call her friends.

As the call connects, the three friends begin to greet one another, as if they haven’t seen each other in ages.

“How was your date with mister swole arms?” Taylor asks as Mercedes snickers.

“You two,” she shakes her head. “The date was great. He was such a gentleman, ugh! The drinks were great, the music was great, and he was great. I’ve never had a conversation with a man that didn’t end in me throwing a drink in his face.”

“Girl, we’ve all been there!” Mercedes laughs.

“What did y’all talk about?”

“Things.” She smirks.

“Like???” They ask in unison, making her laugh.

“Ya know, we just talked about any and everything, honestly. He’s very intelligent, and I’ve known that from working alongside him, but to just sit and listen to him was amazing.” She smiles, like she’s still on their date.

“Ew, you’re blushing!”

“You look flustered, as well. Care to tell us why?”

“We kissed.”

Their jaws drop collectively.

“That’s why you're smiling like that!” Taylor laughs.

“That god of a man put his lips on you???” Mercedes asks, her eyes wide.

She nods, the smirk never leaving her lips.

“Were they soft?” Taylor asks.

“Mmhm. Rose petal soft.”

“Mm!” Taylor exclaims.

“Was there tongue involved??” Mercedes asks.

“It was our first date, girl! No, there was no tongue.” 

Her incredulous expression didn’t sway her brash best friend from being any less than such.

“You know you wanted him to tongue you down, shut up!” Taylor laughs.

“That’s besides the point,” she playfully rolls her eyes. “If y’all are done, I’d like to get in my bed now.”

“Ooh, testy!”

“We just wanted to see how you and strong arms hit it off, heffa. We’ll get out of your hair.”

“I’ll catch up with y’all, tomorrow.”

They say their goodbyes and Mya slips out of her dress and pulls on her pjs, face planting into her soft sheets.

A notification hits her phone, causing her to lift her head up and check it.

Taylor 🤎

Have sweet dreams about ol broad arms for us! Goodnight 😂

☆: .☽ . :☆ﾟ.☆:☆: .☽ .☆: .☽ · 。ﾟ☆: .☽ . :☆ﾟ☆: .☽ . :☆

“So, how was the date?” Jane asks, spinning around in Isaiah's office chair, while he stands a foot away from her, shaking his head.

“Jane. Get out of my chair.”

“I don't wanna! Tell me about your pretty girlfriend!” She faux whines, bringing her spinning to a stop.

“Quit being a child, please. I’ll tell you about the date if you just get up.” He repeats.

Huffing, she stands to her feet and moves away from the comfy computer chair, to the blue club chair on the other side of the desk.

“I leave for one second and you start treatin’ my chair like a damn merry-go-round, Jane? Really?” The annoyed crease in his forehead makes her laugh.

“It’s not broken, Isaiah.”

“That’s not the point, Jane.”

“Okay!” she sighs. “ Are you gonna tell me what happened now or are you gonna continue being dramatic over a chair?”

“I got a mind to kick you out, but I’ll refrain.” He briefly closes his eyes, before proceeding with the much awaited news.

“Let’s see, after I left your house, I went to Fannah’s Florals and bought a tulip— turns out, they’re her favorite flower. I know, I’m good. Uh…” Jane bursts into laughter, undoubtedly making him join.

“You’re hilarious, man!” She giggles.

“I did good, though, Doe! Gimme my props.”

“You did good, bud. You did good.”

“Thank you!” he laughs. “We went to Tropic, it was very nice. The music was great, the drinks were great and man…she looked amazing.” He sighs, going into a dreamy tangent.

“Yeah?” Jane cheeses, sitting her chin in her palms. “What did she wear?”

“She had on this mini dress, it was kinda orange and yellow, at the same time.”

“That’s what the kids call mustard.”

“Maybe, honey mustard. But, it looked beautiful on her, nonetheless.” He digresses. “Her hair was all done up.”

“Did she think you looked as dreamy as you thought she looked?”

“I don’t know if dreamy is the word, but she said I looked handsome. So, you did good, friend.”

She bows from her seated position, making him chuckle and shake his head.

“Yay! So, was the conversation good?”

“It was. We’ve had brief conversations in passing, so I’ve always kind of known this about her, but she’s sweet. I just felt comfortable enough to tell her anything. We related on a couple of things, which made it even easier, cause my nerves were shot.”

“I’ve never seen you that nervous, before.” Jane agrees.

“It normally doesn’t happen.”

“You really like her!” She coos, the urge to throw her out comes back, tenfold.

Sighing, he smiles. “Yeah, she’s great. We danced for what seemed like an eternity. Just lost in the moment.. her scent is still fresh in my brain.” He laughs to himself.

“She seems like a vanilla kinda girl.” Jane comments.

He shakes his head. “Sandalwood.”

Her brows raise. “Ooh, the good shit!”

“Indeed.”

“She’s got good taste.”

“I remember telling her that, at least twice, last night.”

“How’d you bring the evening to a close?” She asks.

“I walked her to her door, we agreed to go out again, and I kissed her, goodnight.” He casually says.

Jane’s eyes grow wide. “You kissed her?? Oh my gosh! How’d that happen?”

“It honestly just happened,” he laughs. “I could tell that she was thinking about it as much as I was, and I went with my gut, and there we were.”

“Well, gimme the juicy details!”

“It wasn’t that kind of kiss, doe. It was sweet and simple. Gentle, even. She’s got soft lips.”

“When’s the wedding?”

“Get out,” he points towards the door, causing her obnoxious laugh to ring out, yet again.

Bumping into one another in the common area, Isaiah and Mya shyly glance at each other.

“Hey, pretty.” He greets.

“Hey,” she waves, smiling. “How are you?”

“Better, now.”

“Is that so?”

“Yeah, you got a way of brightenin’ up the room when you step in.” He admits, stuffing his hands in his pockets.

“You’re a very sweet man.”

“And, you’re a very sweet woman.”

“So,” she begins, tossing her coffee cup in the trash. “I was thinking that I could plan our next date.”

“Yeah?” amusement colors his tone. “What did you have in mind?”

“Well, it’s a surprise—- which is code for, I haven’t figured it all out yet.”

They share a laugh.

“You’re funny.” He compliments.

“I’ve been told.” Their eyes linger on each other, an awkward sway taking over their bones.

“I know this ain’t the most appropriate time… but I feel like kissing you, again.” He admits.

Her palms turn sweaty at his confession. “Well, I can um,” she leans in to kiss his cheek.

“Just cause this ain’t the most appropriate time.” She responds. “Catch me a little later, though.”  A grin takes over his lips.

His brows slightly raise. “A little later, it is.”

Sitting around the round table, a select group of computer techs, including Isaiah and his smitten coworker, sit with Savannah for a meeting.

“Alright, so I’ve brought y’all here, because our annual Creative Edge seminar is coming up and y’all have been invited to attend the Gold Ball!” she excitedly grabs the stack of golden envelopes from her binder.

“What?”

“Really??”

“Thee Gold Ball??”

“Yeah!” Savannah laughs, holding up the envelopes. “I got ‘em all right here!”

“Oh my gosh,” Mya cups her face in shock.

“Hard work does pay off,” Isaiah hums to himself. The creative kid inside of him, jumping for joy.

Everyone opens their official invitation, as Savannah begins to give them the details.

“I’m very proud of you guys. You’ve all worked very hard to get here.” She smiles at the group, while they continue to process the news.

“The seminar is November the fifteenth and the sixteenth, and the Gold Ball is that night. The times are posted on the invitation, as well as the dress code for the ball. Focus on networking and getting your name out there, the rest will fall into place. More importantly, have fun. You guys deserve this.”

“Thank you!” the group graciously responds.

As the meeting ends and the small group files out, Mya stays behind to continue staring at her future in the form of a pretty white and gold letter.

“Wow,” she mumbles to herself.

“You didn’t think you’d get invited, either, huh?” Isaiah heads back to the table.

She briefly looks up at him, before looking back to the letter. “If I’m being honest. Not a chance.” She laughs.

“Why not?” He asks, sitting back down.

“Because.” She sighs. “This ball is for people that do more than just color code a system and make pretty signs.”

“That’s not all you do.” He says.

“And, how do you know that?”

“Because, you’re not the only one that leaves his work up on the computer.” He chuckles.

“Oh… I did?” She asks, embarrassment seeping into her tone.

“You did,” he gives a small smile.

"And your work is amazing, Mya. I feel like you know that, but you second guess yourself.”

“Hmph. I think you’re in the wrong field, ‘saiah. You sound like a therapist.” She cracks.

“I just want you to know that you deserve this. Maybe more than the rest of us.” His eyes wander over her face, a slight somber taking over her eyes as they connect to his.

“Thank you. But, I think that it’s you that deserves this more than the rest of us.” She smiles.

“I appreciate it.” He stands from his seat, once again. “I have to get back to my paperwork, but I’ll see you later, okay?”

She nods, her smile easing him.

“Alright.” Tapping the table, he heads out of the conference room.

Turning her attention back to the letter in her hand, she smiles.

“I deserve this.”