#kelvinharrisonjrfanfic

[jazziejax]

𝐂𝐨𝐳𝐲 𝐍𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐭𝐬…

𝐏𝐚𝐢𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐬 - Kelvin Harrison Jr. x Black! Fem! Reader

𝐒𝐮𝐦𝐦𝐚𝐫𝐲- a unexpected night in with your ex turns into something you both wanted deep down.

𝐖𝐚𝐫𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐬- third person, 18+, NSFW, MDI, fingering, kissing, spit, let me know if I missed anything

𝐉𝐚𝐳𝐳𝐢𝐞’𝐬 𝐍𝐨𝐭𝐞𝐬 - I don’t really know how to write smut, this was my first time so I’m not sure if this is good or not. Let me know what you guys think. I might not ever write smut again, this was a little awkward for me. But, I also did like it because Kelvin is super cute and sexy to me.

𝐖𝐨𝐫𝐝 𝐂𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐭 - 4,967+

#𝐭𝐰𝐨

The sound of keys jingling didn’t wake the sleeping woman on the sofa. She was in a deep sleep as the man entered her small space, moving to sit down the bags he had after locking the door. He let out a sigh as he stepped into the small area that separated the living room and the kitchen. He placed his hands on his hips, looking at the sight before him.

The brown-skinned woman laid out on the couch on her stomach, wearing what looked to be one of his shirts, which rode up to show she only had her panties on the bottom. She was softly snoring with her face smushed against one of the throw pillows. Her head was angled towards the television to show she fell asleep enjoying the show, which was playing the ending scene of the movie ‘NOPE’ by Jordan Peele. The small coffee table in front of the couch was littered with small candy wrappers, some falling to the floor due to the wind from the ceiling fan.

Kelvin couldn’t help but grin at the sight of her, even though there was nothing inherently special about it. To a stranger, this sight was something as simple as an attractive woman sleeping on her couch. But to him, it was more than that. His heart just lurched at the sight of her. Her smooth skin glowed under the light of the television. How the rise and fall of her breathing made her butt poke out more from under the shirt, as well as her arched leg. How her face was being against her pillow made her lips pucker. He couldn’t help but lick his bottom lip at the sight of her.

After slipping out of his sneakers, Kelvin then padded his way over to the couch. He squatted down next to her, reaching his hand out to place it on her back. “Baby,” He hummed, rubbing his hand up and down her back. “It’s time to get up, you’ve been sleeping all day.” He said softly, watching her face.

The woman’s brows twitched, her lips slightly scrunching. That was all the reaction he got from her, causing him to pursue his lips. “Come on, baby. You know sleeping in late messes up your sleeping schedule and you hate that.” He said again, moving his hand down her back to creep his way under the fabric of the loose shirt. This caused the tee to rise even more, showing more of her plump bottom in her cute cotton panties. He could also feel her smooth back under his fingers, running his pads up and down the curve in the center. Her face didn’t change, if anything it looked like she got more comfortable within her slumber, humming at the feeling of his fingers on her skin.

Kelvin couldn’t help the small grin that made its ways onto his face, his ears delighted by the soft sounds she was subtly making.

“See, I tried to do be cute with you but obviously that’s not what you listen to so I’m going back to my ways.” He began as he adjusted himself in his squat, about to rise. And before he could even think about it, he smacked her exposed butt cheek. “Get up, girl, I got food.” He said before licking his lips and standing to make it way back over to the kitchen, though tempted to watch it recoil under his pressure.

The woman on the couch groaned, sitting up with a hiss and she clenched her bottom. “Dammit Kelvin.” She groaned in a groggy voice, still not used to the feeling of the unexpected wake up no matter how many times he did it. As well as the feeling she always got afterwards that sent a shock of arousal through her body, which she thought couldn’t be good to immediately wake up with.

“I got your favorite.” The man grinned over at her from the kitchenette as he began to take takeout buns from the bags he sat down in earlier. She furrowed her brows, her eyes adjusting to the world as she gazed at him as she sat up. “What are you doing here?” She asked, now sitting on the soft sting that he left as she scratched her back.

“Saving your life and your bad attitude.” He said, but even falling at her already sour mood as she placed the food on the counter and disposed of the bags. She smacked her lips, looking over at him. “Dramatic.” She mumbled to herself.

“Not dramatic.” Kelvin heard her. “Nala said you weren’t feeling well and that you fell asleep. That was five hours ago and it’s 10:30pm. You haven’t eaten and you hate it when your sleep schedule gets messed up.” He explained as he opened the containers around him, filled with different varieties of food from this stakeshack down the street. “You’re blessed to have me.” He stated as he picked up and fry and ate hit, rolling his neck and eyes at the woman.

The woman could only blink at him from across the room, watching as he raised his eyebrows at her before going back to his food. “Come eat.” He demanded.

“Why is Nala always telling my business.” She playfully hissed, ignoring what he said and throwing her body into the back of the couch in a small tantrum.

“Because she loved you and you don’t tend to give a damn about yourself sometimes. Now, I’m not going to say come get this food one for a time.” He said again. His tone was much for fine this time, catching her avoidance of his eyes and all-around presence since he’d been in this side of the room. His weight was leaned onto his hands, which held up his figure against the countertop, his eyes locked on her. A lot of people didn’t expect such an aura from Kelvin, and that’s what about him that always drew her in.

One would never suspect a man like him to have this intimidating nature, and he quite honestly didn’t know he had it either but it was a mix of everything about him. His non wavering confidence, his charismatic demeanor, he always had it and he always knew how to turn it on and off. All that with a serious tone, his sharp gaze and a locked jaw, it had everyone freezing and submitting to his will.

That’s why she stood up from the couch then, no questions asked as she trudged her half bare figure over to the other side of the counter. Her arms was crossed and she avoided eye contact with him the whole way, even thought his gaze was not leaving her from until she stood directly across from him.

“Good.” He said, picking up another fry and popping it into his mouth. She glanced up at him from the food, watching as his jaw flexed as he chewed. “I was in a hurry so I just got your usual down the street. A double cheeseburger with American and Jalapeño cheese and mushrooms. And a large fry.” He said, not looking up at her as she gathered her meal so it was layer out in front of her. She just nodded, arms crossed as her mouth almost began to water at the sight of the food in front of her. She was quick to open the paper containers the greasy food was left in, eating her first meal of the day at almost 11:00pm.

It was silent between them as they ate. The silence between was’t as awkward as it could be due to all the noise that surround them. Amazon Prime starting another movie in the television after the last one stopped. The ceiling fan with its soft hum as it cooled the already drafty apartment. The sound of their chewing as they devoured their food, her faster then him since she was wasting like a started woman. And the sound of police sirens outside, maybe even an ambulance if you really focused.

She took a large sip from the lemonade he got her before placing the thin cut down. “What are you doing here?” She asked, not taking her eyes off her food.

Kelvin glanced up at her, seeing her stilling looking down as she dipped her fries into an extra jalapeño cheese dip. “I heard you didn’t feeling well.” He stated simply. She shook her head, stilling looking down at her food. “No.” She said before stuffing a cheesy fry into her mouth. Kelvin quirked a brow at her.

“No?”

“No, I mean, what are you doing here, Kelvin.” She said, now glancing up and, to her surprise, locking eyes with him. She blinked. “I don’t like you out here, it’s not safe.”

“I don’t like you out here.” He said firmly, raising his head more to look at her. She only licked her lips, letting out a small sigh as she glanced away from him. “I told you not to come back.” She said.

“And if I don’t, who’s going to check on you?” He questioned as if the answer was obvious.

“Nala still lives downstairs.” She added quickly.

“Nala hasn’t been in her apartment in two weeks because she’s been with Aaron.”

“She calls.” She shrugged, her brows furrowed as she started to get annoyed.

“Well, today is just one of those days where she was checking and you weren’t answering. I was already out so I decided to stop by and calm her nerves.” Kelvin answered back just as quickly as she did, moving to cross his arms as she looked at the girl who was very focused on her spicy cheesy dip. She shoved a fry in her mouth, physically stopping herself from saying ‘And your nerves?’. She didn’t know if she could handle his answer.

“Well, I’m fine, so…” She trailed off with a shrug, offering him a small glance. Kelvin just gave her a once-over. “Yeah, we’ll see.” He said. She frowned at him, sitting down her cheese. “I am fine, Kelvin.” She said firmly, but the man had already started cleaning up his trash in front of him. “Okay.” He said, offering her a glance as he tidied up.

“It’s nothing serious.” She said, finishing her food as well, subconsciously tracking after him as he moved to throw the trash in the bin on the other end of the counter, on the floor. “I almost ate a whole bag of small Reece’s cups and Kisses. You know how I get when I have too much sugar.” She said, gesturing over to the candy wrappers that lay on the table and floor. That seems to catch his interest, the man moving to pick up the wrappers from the living room, the woman telling behind him still.

“Mmhmm.” He said as he gather the trash into his large hands and then moved to dispose of it as well, sidestepping the woman the blocked his path. He was about to turn and face the living room again but she was already in front of him, her arms crossed. “I’m fine.” She said firmly.

“Why are you trying to convince me that you’re fine?” He asked, folding his arms as well. They blinked at him. “I'm not trying to convince you. I’m just telling you.”

“And I said okay.” He stated. “It’s not like that’s gonna make me leave.” He scoffed with a chortle, making his way around her. She frowned, looking at the empty spot he left before her. She quickly turned just as he planted his rear on the sofa.

“What do you mean?” She questioned, her tone less hostile than before. Kelvin picked up the remote from the table and began looking through her subscriptions. “I’m not leaving.” He said, not taking his eyes off the screen.

“You’re staying?” She asked, her eyes widening slightly. Kevin glanced over at her. “Yeah, that’s, like, the definition of not leaving.” He grinned, not hiding the way his eyes traced her figure. From her smooth legs to her round shoulder that hung out the large neck of the shirt, that also didn’t seem to cover enough. She crossed her arms tighter around herself, feeling exposed under his gaze, but that only brought attention to her unsupported breasts that were now being held up by her forearms. She cleared her throat from its dry spell at his gaze.

“Why are you staying?” She asked.

“Because I can.” He shrugged. She jerked her head back at him. “Uh, no.” She stated firmly. “You can’t just make plans to stay at someone else place without permission. This is my house.” She said. Kelvin shifted in his seat, leaning further into the back of the couch with his crotch further out, his legs spreading as he got comfortable. He only turned his gaze to her, still facing the television. “Do you want me to leave?” He asked coyly. And they both knew what he was doing. He was using that silver tongue of his to get what he wanted and they both knew it was going to work. All Kelvin had to do was bat his eyelashes or smile with those gorges teeth and he could get anything he wanted. And he could never say no to that outrageously handsome but somewhat adorable face.

She pursed her lips as she looked down at her feet, her bare toes padding against the brown wood out of nerves. “No.” She mumbled, a slight pout in her lips. Kelvin couldn’t hide his grin, and she wasn’t looking in the first place. He had her right where he wanted her.

Their relationship was complicated. From past lovers to co-workers to…whatever it was now, there was always this odd cat and mouse game between you. Kelvin has always been the same, charming and funny, used to hide his true vulnerability and deep wants. She was blunt and sarcastic, even though he had an immense amount of love and affection to give. They were sort of perfect, but those veils they rarely let down led to a toxic path. There was never any truth between them, things were always said but weren’t to be taken serious, even if they seemed like it. Passive aggressiveness and stubborn attitudes from both ends. It was all so destructive.

But no matter how bad it got, they both knew the feelings they still held for one another. She would always love him. He was some of her best memories, her greatest times. He showed and taught her so much, that it was hard for her to go through life without thinking of him. He was the angel on her shoulder and when she created, he was her muse. Pained but beautiful. He was everything she wanted to give her love to.

Kelvin could never hate her. He could never not care for her. She was this alluring force that pulled at his heart wherever he went. She was the angelic voice he heard whenever he was speaking to another woman, or whenever he booked a new role. She was the warm embrace he felt every time he went to bed at night and woke in the morning, taking God that the sun has risen, he has seen another day, and that her memory has never left his mind. She was as clear as day and if he had to create her form from memory, he would get it to the last detail.

They had their down, which they were still in, but boy were their highs above the clouds.

She looked up from her toes, seeing his eyes were still on her. He then patted the space next to him. “Come here, honey.” He said softly, and she could feel the warmth spread through her insides.

She made her way over to him with little hesitation. Kelvin’s eyes never left her face, angling his head up as she got closer, even though she never looked him in the eye until she stood above him. He thought she was going to take a seat in the place he patted, but to both of their surprise, she sat herself in his lap. Her legs straddled his and his hands subconsciously made their way to her thighs. Kelvin’s gaze was locked on her’s, the pair just looking at one another.

She bright her hands up to his shoulders, beginning to play with the strings on his back jacket. She dint stay there long, her fingers moving to the silver zipper in the middle of his chest, feeling the heat radiating off of him. She pulled the zipper down slowly, her eyes groaned in her hands, too nervous to look at the man she knew was looking at her. Kelvin watched her movements the whole way, looking at her face to see if he could see her thoughts through her skin, only glancing down when the garment was fully unzipped.

He didn’t move a muscle, his fingers still on the outside of her warm and bare thighs. At first he thought she was going to pull the jacket off, showing his black wife pleaser underneath. But she didn’t take the jacket off. She slipped her hands down his torso slowly, feeling the slightly tensing muscles underneath her fingers from the agony she was putting Kelvin through with her touch. She then let her fingers drag her closer, the mumble limbs slipping around his waist and towards his back. She then had her arms wrapped around his waist, her chest against his and her head on his shoulder. Kelvin blinked, thinking that this whole interaction was going to go another route, but it instead seemed that she just wanted to cuddle.

But he didn’t hesitate to wrap his arms around her waist, pulling her in closer on his lap. His breath lightly hitched at the feeling of her heated area rubbing against his own. He could also feel her lush chest against his from under her shirt, her nipples now pert against his chis hard chest.

Her hands didn’t stop their movements on him once her arms were around his waist. She kept her fingers softly rubbing against his back as she leaned her head against his shoulder, her nose taking in his nice bergamot smell.

“Oh, honey.” He cooed as he rubbed his hands up and down her back, riding her shirt up. He then leaned his head on top of hers, the skin of his cheek connecting with her warm forehead. “It’s okay. You’re just a little under the weather, that’s all.” He said softly before placing his lips on the closest skin of hers, which was on the corner of her mouth. Her breath hitched at the feeling of his lips near hers and she moved to follow his, only to make contact with his neck. She wasn’t thinking as herself anymore as she began to kiss at his neck, small pecks repetitively hitting the same spot.

Kelvin hummed at the feeling of her lips on his skin, his hands on her hips tightening. “I’ll make you feel better baby, don’t worry.” He mumbled, his large hands running down that arch of her back. She continued to kiss at his neck, curving under his touch that stopped at her ass. She hummed against his skin, her kisses becoming deeper as she began sucking at the spot under his jaw.

Kelvin’s hands tracked over her rear and back to her thighs, cupping the bottom of her cheeks. He’d relate the action again and again, his tracing slow and deliberate. She hummed at the feeling of his hands moving over her barely covered bottom then all the way back up to her back, pushing her shirt up further and further each time, uncovering her breasts. She felt his chest vibrate as hummed. He’d stop every now and then, grabbing handfuls of her ass, meshing the fat together in his hands as he hummed in enjoyment.

She subconsciously started to grind her hips against his, caught up in the feeling he was giving her with his simple touch. Kelvin hissed when her center met his bulge briefly, his grip tightening on her ass cheeks. She hissed as he pulled her bottom, feeling a rush leave and wet the center of her panties. She flexed her thoughts around his, causing him to chuckle.

“You like that?” Kelvin asked her in her ear. She hummed in a response, the sound coming almost coming out as a moan. “Yeah?” He grinned, his fingers tips inching closer to her center. She agreed again, her kisses becoming sloppy on his neck. Her breath then hitched as Kelvin began to rub his hand against her heat, dampening the grey underwear further. She let out a moan against his neck at the unexpected contact, her cool breath hitting the salvia that gathered around the hockey she gave him. Kelvin softly hissed at the feeling of her wetness against his fingers through the cloth and the cool air hitting the stinging spot on his neck.

Feeling a newfound scene of arousal, she placed her lips feverishly against his skin again, moving her lips from under his jaw, to the side of his neck and then all the way to under his ear. Kelvin kept a slow pace as he rubbed her pussy from the back. She was rolling her hips against his aar the feeling, her lips still attached to his skin. He paused his rubbing to gather the sides of the cloth in his hands, pulling it taunt at her center. She moaned out again, feeling the pressure against her clit. Her lips never detached from him, moving up to nip at his ears as she let out soft noses of pleasure.

Kelvin then moved the fabric to the side, giving view to the fire between them. She felt the cool air hit her lips, not long having to deal with the shiver before Kelvin’s fingers were rubbing up and down against her. “Ooh, baby, it’s so much.” He moaned at the feeling of her in his hands, the wetness gathering around his fingers. She gave his ears a few licks and bites before moving her way to his face. Her breaths were ragged against his cheek, basking in the feeling he was becoming within her from just swipes at her labia.

“Fuck.” She sighed, her hips moving to match the pace of his hand strokes from around her body. “Ohh Kelvin.” She moaned, her lips still against his skin, although not moving. He hummed, turning his head towards her. “Yes, baby?” He questioned immediately, his eyes taking in her flushed face. She didn’t answer, only looking at his relaxed expression as she felt a knot in her stomach. Kelvin didn’t seem to expect an answer either, his eyes netting hers, taking in the sight of what his fingers were doing to her.

“You’re so wet already.” He said, his words breathy against her slightly opened mouth that was letting out equally breathy moans. He didn’t take his eyes off her hers, the pair just looking at eachother as he spoke to her. “You feel so good in my hands. But you know that, right? Hmm? All wet and ready for me even when you’re sick. Such a good girl.” He hummed seductively, watching and feeling as his words affected her. He knew it would drive her crazy, she lived for his words, not matter how small. She could feel herself tightening on the inside at the utterance of anything he said. Overwhelmed by his small praise, she lent forward, placing her lips into his plump ones that’s been rubbing against hers as he spoke.

She then let out a moan into his mouth just as she felt two of his fingers enter her. The feeling had her biting down in his juice lips, inciting a muffled moan of slight pain and pleasure to come from his mouth. The slight sting didn’t last long, the woman moving her tongue to lick at his bottom lip, as if trying to soothe the pain. She then began sucking and nipping at the soft appendage, not caring for the wet mess it was making in the both of their faces. One hand had made its way to his neck while the other was sifting down his body to palm at the bulge in his sweats just beneath her center. Kelvin, caught up in the kissing and fingering, brought his other hand to her breast under her shirt that was almost off anyways. He caressed her supple nipples, rubbing his fingers around the nub that formed, all while his fingers sped up.

She was overwhelmed with pleasure, the feelings of his hands everywhere while his lips drifted across her face. She could barely focus her hands on his bulge. She just kept palming at it, her moans getting louder from just the thought of pulling it out and going crazy on it. “Fuck, Kelvin, oh my goodness.” She sighed, her eyes closing as his fingers sped up.

Kelvin hummed against her lips as he felt her throb around his fingers. “Come on, give it to me. I know you can do it, baby.” His words enticed more moans from her, the woman practically whining as she tried to focus on something. His other hand was still at her titties, pinching and rubbing on her nipples, while his fingers worked magic inside of her. “I want it all over my fingers so I can taste it afterward. Be good and give it all to me, baby.” He continued to speak. She then felt waves of warmth cascade across her limbs to match the near sob in her throat, her breath pausing as his fingers continued.

He kept his kisses again her skin going as he rode out her orgasm. His lips laid small pecks against her open mouth as she caught her breath. She was silent as felt Kelvin finally pull his hand away from her, watching as he brought the soaked fingers up to his supple lips. Every trace of her against his hand was washed away by his tongue. His eyes were trained on her while hers watched his mouth. Once he was finished, she didn’t waste any time to place her lips against his. She stuck her tongue into his mouth, licking at any traces of herself on his. She could feel her taste rubbing against his own as she moved her hips on his crotch, still feeling the bulge he had in his pants. Kelvin pulled back once he felt it and she bang sucking on his lip again, knowing that this was only going to go further if he didn’t stop it.

He began to run his palms up and down her legs again, calming her down from her high while he showered her temple with whispered praises and sweet kisses. Once her breathing was even, she found herself still in his lap, her arms wrapped around his neck as they just enjoyed the feeling in each other’s arms. His lips were resting on her temple when she turned her head to see felt place her lips against his. The kiss was chaste, the woman pulling back to look him in the eyes. Kelvin’s eyes just jumped between hers, her pupils still blown and reflecting the soft light of the living room. She gave him one more small peck before closing her eyes and rubbing her nose against his, causing the man to chuckle.

“Okay, now you’re getting clingy.” He grinned, looking at the close face. “Like a cat.” He said, but his voice was soft, rubbing his hands up and down her back as she basked in his proximity. “Let’s get you to bed.” He stated when he reached in a set from her, the woman just resting against him. This was usual for them, she tended to always, sort of, shut down after being intimate with Kelvin. She liked being in his care and she knew he would go above and beyond for her. But she also hated when her mind gained clarity hours later and she remembered that they weren’t together anymore.

He stood up with the woman still in his arms, her legs moving to wrap around his waist as he moved down the small hallway off the wall of the television and into the room to his right. The room was dark but he was an expert at moving about in the area at this point, dodging the clothes she had in the floor to place her on the bed. He gave her a kiss before he stood back up.

“I’ll be right back.” He said before leaving the room. He returned seconds later with a damp cloth. He cleaned her before going through her drawers to grab a fresh pair of underwear. Her eyes didn’t leave his form once, watching as he handled her with care. She could feel her heart skip a beat every time he looked up, making eye contact. He would flash a quick smile before continuing. Once he was done, he discarded his sweats and his shirt, moving to place himself in bed next to her. Kelvin usually liked to be the little spoon and that’s how they usually slept, but she clung to him as soon as he planted his rear into the mattress. He chuckled, leaning back with the girl in his arms, her head on his chest, rubbing her fingers up and down the apex of his pectorals. He kissed her forehead before settling back into the pillows. And they drifted off to sleep, their breaths evening out wrapped in each other’s arms.

[jazziejax]

Terrance O’Duncie and Dev-Em are literally on my list!! That and a Bad Boys fic with Aaron and Kelvin.

May somebody please pick these up? I just wanna see some diversity amongst Aaron’s characters in fics/smuts, no shade 😭. Here’s some scenarios I thought of.

MID SIZED SEDAN (Old)

- Mid Sized Sedan taking a fan back to his high-end hotel after a show.

- Mid Sized Sedan (fluff) getting [after]care from reader/OC (hair braided, scalp scratched, massaged, etc).

- Mid Sized Sedan and another (possibly famous) rapper tagteam reader/oc.

DEV EM (Krypton)

- Risky workplace sex with Dev at the military guild.

- !Dom Dev x Reader/OC BDSM.

JAMES THORNE (The A Word)

- James and reader/oc smash all night (like the episode).

TERRENCE (FOE)

- Terrence x Reader/OC, BDSM.

- Terrence x Reader/OC, sex in the back of self-driving car.

- Masochist Terrence.

TERRENCE O’DUNCIE (Prime Suspect 1973)

- Druglord/Mafia Boss Terrence.

[jazziejax]

𝐁𝐀𝐃 𝐁𝐎𝐘𝐙

𝐏𝐚𝐢𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐬 - Bad Boys AU! Kelvin Harrison Jr. x Black!OC & Bad Boys AU! Aaron Pierre x Black!OC

𝐒𝐮𝐦𝐦𝐚𝐫𝐲 - A normal day for the FBI agents who bicker like a married couple is the first day of many odd ones for a rich and beautiful business woman. But let’s look into how they first met.

𝐖𝐚𝐫𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐬 - cursing…a lot, mentions of people’s races, descriptions of appearances, mentions of escorting, food wasting, I hope that’s all but let me know if I missed anything.

𝐉𝐚𝐳𝐳𝐢𝐞’𝐬 𝐍𝐨𝐭𝐞𝐬 - I have a lot planned for this Bad Boys AU, and I’m gonna love every second of it. That’s is if I get to wiring it all….we’ll see. I don’t want to poor anything but this could be a love triangle or… something polyamorous. UNEDITED AS OF RIGHT NOW!!!, I really wanted to get this out because I was so exited about what you guys thought, it’s 2:13 am. Also, this could be read as an ‘x reader’ I try to tray away from detailed descriptions. I just like to use names because it’s easier for me, I know you are all sick and tried of the self inserts and OC’s. It’s just easier for me to add a name :(

𝐖𝐨𝐫𝐝 𝐂𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐭 - 4,282+

𝐌𝐢𝐚𝐦𝐢 𝐅𝐥𝐨𝐫𝐢𝐝𝐚, 𝟏𝟗𝟗𝟓

“Does this spaceship have any damn air in it?” The man from the passenger seat with his shades on asked, his voice muffled as he chewed on his burger. The sun was beating down on them through the small car and the heat was causing him to become irritable.

The taller and lighter man glanced over at him, his hand on the steering wheel as he leaned back in his expensive leather seats. “Quit worrying about my air and start worrying about that food in my car.” He said, glancing back at the road before looking back over at the hungry man over his own shades. “What is this having a picnic shit in my car?” He asked.

Kelvin sighed, pushing his shades up to rest on his head. “Please man, not right now, not today.” He said, annoyance clear on his tongue as he looked over at his partner. “I’m not getting any at home, don’t deny me this.” He spat before moving to take another bite of his burger. The light-skinned man couldn’t help the small amused grin that made its way into his face. “I mean, yeah, how could you when you still live with your mother.” He chortled. Kelvin snapped his head over to him, his eyes sharp. “I do not live with my mother!”

“Yes, you do. You live with your whole damn family!”

“I do not! I bought my family a big ass house and this economy is shit, okay?” Kelvin stated through slightly clenched teeth. “I can’t keep taking women back to my crappy ass apartment that I got on my crappy ass cop salary!” He continued as Aaron sped through the sunny city in the Florida heat. Unbeknownst to both of them, a car was in their trail.

Aaron was about to respond again before he got distracted by the huge bite Kelvin took from the burger and the fries he stuffed from his lap. He scrubbed his lip over at him. “Could you watch it with all that shit, alright?” Kelvin rolled his eyes and threw his head back with a grin as she chewed his food. After swallowing, he gave the man next to him a dead stare.

“Where are your cup holders?” He asked, disregarding what the man said as he looked around the small car. Aaron trained his eyes back on the road, clenching his hands on the steering wheel. “I don’t have one.”

“The hell do you mean you don’t have one?” He asked, his face scrunched in pure befuddlement at what his friend was saying. “$80,000 for this car and you ain’t got no damn cup holders?”

“It’s $105,000 and this just happens to be one of the fastest production of cars on the planet,” Aaron told him confidently, speeding the old model sports car up on the road out of pure cockiness. “0-16 in four seconds, sweetie. It’s a limited edition.” He smirked.

“Limited?” Kelvin said. “You got damn right it’s limited. No cup holder, no back seat. This is a shiny duck with two chairs in it. And I guess that makes us the balls just dragging the fuck along, huh?” He hissed before he reached into his lap for some fries, but the fast car and his clumsy nature caused the fries to fall, falling out of the small carton box they were in. “Oh, damn.” He mumbled, shooting a glance at his driving friend. Aaron’s head quickly snapped over to him, looking between the spilled fries and his hungry partner. “Sorry.” Kelvin winced.

Aaron then quickly wrapped the sports car into the nearest sidewalk, parking the vehicle. He took his shades off, still looking between the food on his floor and the crevices in between with a sharp eye, and then back up at the quickly agitated man. “Get it up.” He said firmly. Kelvin scoffed, looking the man up and down as he held his half-eaten burger.

“Now I know you see I can’t get down there. There’s no place for me to sit anything with this shitty car of yours.” He spat. The pair were so caught up in their bickering that they still didn’t catch the car that’s been trailing them, park right when they did. “And you got a damn engineering floor up in here, my shit ain’t going down up in there.” He said, holding up his hand to show that it wouldn’t fit.

“You know what, I’m not your damn mama.” Aaron spat. “I shouldn’t be cleaning up after your filthy ass.” Kelvin immediately held his finger up to his face. “Keep my mother out of your mouth, A-A-Ron, I told you that.”

“Quit calling me that!”

“And watch my hand, okay?” Kelvin ignored him as he continued, moving to try and stuff his hand in between the seats. “It can barely get down there. And when it does, it gets stuck. And what does that make, you get this shit!” He chided, hosing up the same hand to show his now crooked and coned fingers, a small grinning his face. Aaron gave him a black stare, both of the men unbeknownst to the women coming down the sidewalk and the woman from behind them sent as a distraction.

“You gone get them fries,” Aaron told him.

And while they were absorbed within their world of car chat and being tailed, two women were walking down the street having a conversation of their own.

“Thanks again, Fab.” One of the women said, glancing next to her to see her friend licking away at the frozen cream treat in the sugar cone. “For the ice cream, I mean.” She mumbled, glancing back down her the pink ice cream she held in her fist. The other woman glanced over as she swept her fresh blow out from her face. “I told you it was no problem, Addy.” She shrugged before giving her double chocolate ice cream another lick, the Miami sun shining down on her bronze skin.

It was silent then, the pair listening to the sound of their shoes hitting the pavement, Addy’s kitten heels making small taps while Fabiola’s stilettos punted against the pavement in her tried strut. They enjoyed their treats under the blazing sun, ears tuned into the chirping grids, the sound of playing children, and the city life moving past them. The air was thick with tension, both of their thoughts filled with burning assumptions, unanswered questions, and overflowing uncertainty.

This was still new for them. All of it. Although Addison and Fabiola had been friends for a while, their new living situation was still a task to get around, and there were certain lines neither of them ever crossed. Knowing each other since junior year of college, most would say they were best friends with opposite personalities. Addy was an adrenaline junkie to her core. She spent most of her college time drinking and throwing ragers. She was known for her sweet personality and down with all the frats and sororities. And no matter how hard she partied, she never failed an exam. Essays might not have been her strongest suit but she was damn good with numbers.

Fabiola on the other hand was sort of the opposite. She had her fair share of nice times on campus but she wasn’t really a ‘people person’. Fabiola grew up as the youngest girl of three boys with a beautiful mother and a strict and traditional father. She was a bossy perfectionist with a small temper and a no-bullshit attitude. All that to say, she was spoiled rotten, and making friends didn’t come easy. She hadn’t had a consistent friend in her life up until college. Now, she wasn’t a complete loner, she had friends at school growing up, but she never went out of her way to hang out with any of them. She was focused on one thing and that was her career. After seeing her mom be a housewife for so long, she knew it was a life that she never wanted to live. So he had her group and stuck to them.

That was until she was almost failing trigonometry and everyone she knew was recommending the campus's famous engineering major, Addison Montez. They would meet in the library every Friday afternoon to study, and eventually Fab began to help Addy with her papers for history. They were studying friends until the oh-so-comfortable and relaxed Addison recommended they go out to a party instead of being trapped within the thick smell of old paper and stale wood. And after that homecoming rager that took place at the HBCU two miles out, let’s just say they were almost inseparable after that.

It’s been years since then though. Life got real for them quickly and it was hard to keep in touch. Fabiola went on to inherit most of the money of her father when he passed since two of her brothers ended up being absolute useless shits with no career and the eldest son ran the medical equipment company. All while her mother ran off to Switzerland to marry a rich white man who was also widowed. They all still kept in touch but things were a little odd now.

Addison’s life, on the other hand, went a little downhill. She was never able to her master's degree because she didn’t have the money to pay for college. Things got so stressful for her point that she had to drop out, which her folks were not happy about. She could only live in her small hometown in the middle of bun-fuck nowhere working at GoodWill for two years before she packed her things into her shit box of a car and ran. That’s how she ended up in Miami, in her little apartment now making more than she was at Goodwill, although life still wasn’t that great considering what she now did for money. And that didn’t last long because the building she lived in was sold and she now needed a place to crash until she collected more cash.

And after bumping into Fabiola at the lingerie store, things went from there. They were friends again after so long. Casual and lighthearted conversations filled their hearts pure.

But their forced proximity begged for more clarity.

Fabiola moved her brown leather bag to her other hand, slipping it into the cuff of her elbow as she continued to eat her ice cream, biting into the cone and then licking some of the cream that fell away from her deep red manicured nails. She then looked down at her outfit, making sure the dripping treat didn’t hit her nice sweater or her crisp white shirt under it. “Just say what you’re thinking Addison.” She said, not even looking over at her friend before going back to her ice cream once she saw her outfit was clear.

Addison glanced over at her, licking her ice cream at a slower pace as her mind became more closed with doubts. She had her arms crossed, her free hand against the hairs in her exposed arms, due to the black halter turtle neck she had on that matched her small black heels, all paired with simple jeans. “I just…you don’t know how much I appreciate you.” She said. Her words were met with a groan from Fabiola, the woman throwing her head back.

“Enough.” She said firmly, turning her head to her. “You’ve said thank you to me more than you’ve lived longer with me. And it’s been two weeks.”

“I know, I know,” Addy added in a dejected tone, only giving the strawberry-flavored dessert in her hand kitten licks. “It just really means a lot to me right now. You don’t even know how much.” She said, letting out a small sigh. Fabiola’s eyes flickered back at her at her mellow tone, taking in the woman’s lost stare and guarded form. She awkwardly pressed her lips together, her eyes flicking away since she found the cars passing on the street much more interesting than the emotionally charged atmosphere. She then gulped. “Just say what you really want to say.” She said, the words coming out firmer than she anticipated. She ignored it, however, her eyes still looking at anything but the woman next to her as they walked back to her car.

Addison glanced her way when she spoke, but was met with the woman tucking her shoulder-length blowout behind her ear. She gulped herself, pursing her lips as she looked away. “I…” She trailed off. “I just don’t think it’s best for me to say it in this environment. In the open.”

“I would rather you say it before we’re trapped in my car for the next twenty minutes until we make it back to my place.” Fabiola didn’t miss a beat, cutting her eyes at her from the corner. “No pressure but it might be more awkward for you.” She said, and before she could finish, she then realized why she didn’t have many friends. Feelings were never really her thing, and this sensitive subject that Addison was clearly going through wasn’t her forte at all.

Addison nodded at her words as she licked her lips, totally forgetting about the melting treat in her hands. “Yeah, you’re right.” She sighed. “Okay. I, um…. Okay…I…work for a Madam.” She added quickly after her stuttering spout, then ate the rest of her ice cream as quickly as she could. Fabiola turned her lips up at her, watching as the woman sucked the ice cream that was most just cream now, from the cone. Addison turned to her, seeing her disgusted face. “Okay, damn, no need for the look.” She spat.

Fabiola blinked. “No, that was for the way you ate the rest of that ice cream.” She added, giving her a sideways glance as she bit into her cone. “I don’t really care about that other thing.” She shrugged as she brought her gold wire shades down to cover her eyes, her hair blowing more in its free form with the wind in her strut. Addison’s brows shot out at that. “Really?”

“Yeah.” She shrugged as she sped up some, seeing her car in the distance. “A check is a check, sweetie.” She said, flashing the girl a smirk and wink before licking at her ice cream again. They were coming upon her car, causing the woman to dig into her purse to find her keys with one hand. Addison blinked, shocked at her blasé attitude, and nodded her head as she followed after the woman. “Well, it’s not really a check.” She added with a small smirk. Fabiola glanced over at her, her arm still out as she dug into her purse to fetch her keys. “Well, money is still money.” She added, mocking annoyance with a smirk still on her lips as she found her keys. Addison grinned as well, watching as the woman stepped into the street to open her car door.

They paused however at the sound of commotion at the car behind them.

Back in the car, Kelvin and Aaron were still arguing.

“How imma get the damn fries, A-A-Ron?”

“Quit calling me that! Now look, this ain’t no got damn Denny’s, ain’t no eating in my car.” Aaron said before movement out of the windshield window caught his attention. His eyes were completely disregarding the woman in white, tilting his head to look around the planned distraction at the two women coming down the pavement.

“I wouldn’t be buying no shit from Denny’s anyway!” Kelvin continued, not paying attention to what the other man was staring at. “I don’t like the way we would’ve been treated.” He said before his eyes caught sight of the woman in white walking around the car. He looked the pale gorgeous woman in the short white dress up and down before glancing back at Aaron. “You weren’t worried about no damn fries anyway.” He snarked, looking the man up and down. “You all up in that.” He said. He then realized Aaron wasn’t all up in that white woman passing by, but the two beauties walking down the street. Kelvin glanced over, and it was like everything transformed into slow motion.

They watched as a woman in a grey suit practically strutted down the street. Her straight hair was touching her collarbones and belonged in the wind, her shades covering her eyes. She walked with a sense of authority and confidence, her equally attractive friend a few steps behind her, as she licked away at the chocolate ice cream in her hands.

“Damn.” Kelvin and Aaron said at the same time in the same breathy tone, tilting their heads as they looked the duo up and down, moving to the car in front of them.

They couldn’t admire her long before they were interrupted by the sight of guns entering their periphery.

“Get out of the car.” The scrawny white guy spat at Aaron. He glanced at the man before shaking his head with a sigh while Kelvin just dripped his.

“Damn.” He and Kelvin repeated. L

Kelvin looked the big burly man next to him up and down in disgust before his eyes went back to the gun lined at his face. “Now ain’t this some bullshit.” He spat. “The fuck is this?” Their attention was no longer on the women in front of them, but their attention was now on them.

“Me and my team, we’ve had a big week, so just get the fuck out of the car.” The white guy spat at them. Kelvin was too busy squinting his eyes against the sun as he looked out of the car at the large guy who held him at gunpoint. “Damn!” He said again, looking him up and down. “What you weigh in at, 350? I bet you a big Popeye chicken-eating son of bitch, ain’t you? Churches?” He asked causing Aaron to roll his eyes as he brought his hands up in surrender. “Hey, hey. Let’s chill.” He began when the man brought the gun closer.

Kelvin turned to his partner, his arms still down as he frowned. “Why do I always gotta get the big thick mothafuckas?” He tiffed. This only gained a reaction from the men who were robbing them. “Get the hell out of the car, now!” The white guy hissed as he moved to piped the door, causing the large guy to follow. Aaron and Kelvin were quick to exit, their hands raised. “Alright, alright, alright!” Kelvin yelled as he stepped out with his cup in his hand. He looked at the man in front of him while the other guy tried to lean Aaron against the car.

Fabiola and Addison looked back at the commotion, their mouths dropping at the sight of the robbery happening in front of them. Addison was quick to drop the soggy cone and move to the car, squatting down some in case things got wild but Fabiola was stuck, the rest of her cone in her mouth, scared to move in case the men’s guns turned their way. They stood there, just watching and listening.

“You know, now this is some funny shit,” Aaron said, his tone fed up as he held his hands up, glancing between the men that surround him.

“Shut up!” The small guy yelled. But Aaron just ignored him, looking at the angry man. “Let me tell you how bad a day you’re having. Right now you’re having a couple of FBI agents.” He stated. The shirt guy with sweat sliding down his face just looked at him. “Oh yeah? Well, I’m a stand-up comedian.” He added. “And I suck! That’s why I need your car.” He shouted through clenched teeth as he took a step closer.

“We’re dealing with a couple of cops and some lunatics out here,” Fabiola stared on with bated breath, not able to rip her eyes star from the scene.

“Hey, look!” Kelvin spoke up, still not having taken his eyes off the man in front of him. “I ain’t no Wesley Snipes, I just hang out with stupid ass friends that drive stupid ass cars that’s attract a lot mothafuckin’ attention!” He yelled, emphasizing his words every time he glanced back at said ‘stupid ass friend’, who now had a gun to his head. Aaron didn’t seem to care about any of that at the moment, his jaw downing at Kelvin’s statement.

“You know what? I need to jump over this car and smack you upside your peasy ass head, that’s what I need to do.”

This caused Kelvin to turn around, the men now facing each other as they disregarded the burglars who watched them. Fabiola furrowed her bed at them while Addison raised from her crouch position, less scared as she watched the so-called cops argue with guns to their backs. “A couple of lunatics as cops too.” She said, adding to what she heard Fabiola state. They watched as the men screamed at one another, the men with guns slightly backing off out of confusion and tension.

“Yeah, cause your ass was arguing over a stupid ass, mothafuckin, French fry!”

“It’s not about the French fry!”

“It’s a fry!”

“It’s about your lack of respect for other people's property!” Aaron screamed, pointing over at him.

“Hey, hey, hey!” The scrawny man behind Aaron yelled.

“That shit is stupid!” Kelvin shouted back at Aaron. “Shut the fuck up!” The large dark-skinned man spoke up, pointing his gun at him. Kelvin’s head snapped back to him, face grimaced in pure anger. “Hold on! You hold the FUCK ON!” He yelled at him before turning back to argue. “Now you want some bad enough, come get some!” He added before quickly turning around and throwing his chocolate milkshake onto the large man, not missing a beat to kick him in the nuts and then rip the gun off his hips. All while Aaron simultaneously elbowed the man behind him in the face before then turning to sucker punch him, causing the perps to both hit the ground.

“You like that shit?!” Kelvin continued to yell, pointing his gun down at him. He moved around, kicking the gun far from the burglars' hands as he held his own to the man’s head. “Wesley Snipes, Passenger 57! Now give me a mothafuckin’ handy wipe!” He spat with a smirk, his glare on the large man.

Aaron let out a sigh as he pulled out his gun, pointing it down at the man who seemed to be concussed on the ground.

“Now let’s hear one of those jokes, bitch.” He spat. He heard w let out a large laugh from the other side of the car, causing him to glance over. He had a smirk of his own on his lips, green eyes relaxing in the sun. Their ultra-cool moment was interrupted by the sound of a car unlocking, causing both cops to look over at the two women from earlier staring at them.

Addison was quick to open her door, her eyes darting between the scene in front of her one last time. “Sick shit.” She said with a grin before entering the car. Fabiola still stood there, shocked as she looked between the two cops. It seemed as though the halt in the screaming caused her to snap out of her thoughts, leading her to blink. Her eyes moved over to the shorter man, who was dressed in a simple white tee and black dress pants, all high in his built figure. The hold of his chain, belt buckle, and other jewelry stood out against his brown skin. His shirt waves were smooth on his head and his cute face was sort of clean-shaven, her eyes attaching themselves to his stunning and plump lips.

“What she said.” She spoke up, nodding her head to the woman in the car. “That was…cool.” She nodded. Her sultry voice caused both men to tense up but quickly relaxed, the smooth sound unexpected to both of them. Her shades were also on, covering her eyes from telling them what she truly thought, and why she was still there speaking to them. Kelvin nodded his head at her, not hiding the way he looked her up and down. “Thanks.” He said, a small smirk making his way into his lips.

She nodded at him before her eyes then made their way to the man on the other side of the car. His figure was taller and larger, and although his suit was baggier, she could tell the muscles under it were strong and sculpted. His outfit was similar to Kevin’s, although his was grey and he had his blazer on. What caught her attention the most was his eyes, the bright and striking color of them held her captivated from the rest of his face. The icy blue irises looked back at her as her eyes gave his face a quick once over, admiring his large ears and nice goatee, and a sexy smolder on his lips.

“Nice car.” She added, nodding at the fancy Porsche that they surrounded. Aaron blinked, his eyes not leaving her face. He was caught in the way the hair blew the wind, framing her face perfectly. Though he only knew her for mere seconds, he hoped desperately that some unknown force would come in a swoop the glasses from her face to see her clearly. “Thank you. Porsche.” He said, snapping out of his quick start of thinking. His eyes then moved to the one she stood by, nodding his ear down to it. “What that?” He asked.

The pair could both see one of her brow arch at his question, a smirk making its way into her lips. “A Ferrari.” She said, placing her hand on her hip as she looked between the two of them. Aaron’s eyes widened as he stood straighter, looking between the car and the woman. “F512M. Nice right? I know.” He said, not even waiting for a response to her question that she answered herself before opening the door. She didn’t even give them one last glance before hopping into the nice grey car and pulling off, making sure to rev her nice engine.

Kelvin and Aaron stood there, guns still pinged at her knocked-out perps, watching the car as it quickly drove away from them. Kelvin seemed to relax without the woman in his vicinity, his shoulders dropping but his arms still raised to aim his gun. “We should get these guys…somewhere. I want ‘em the hell up outta my face.” He grumbled before moving to grab his phone and pager from the car to call down the local police. Aaron raised as well, his gaze moving from the sunset the woman drove off into, to the hot pavement the burglar laid on. “Forget them, this one’s probably dead. I wanna know who the hell that was.”

“Someone out of both of our leagues,” Kelvin added, his focus on the phone in his hands. Aaron jerked his head back, sending the man a dirty look. Before he could even begin an argument, Kelvin had already raised his finger, halting him. “Even for you Mr.Playboy. You don’t have a Ferrari.” He said before sending him a sarcastic smile and then turning away with the phone held up his ear.

Meanwhile, in the car, Fabiola had a grin on her face as she pushed her glasses back up into her hair. “Girl, them cops were fione!” She said, causing Addison to laugh. “You know, besides all the armed robbery stuff, that wasn’t a bad sight. I love to see some brothers in action.” She cheesed, letting out a laugh as she rethought the whole ordeal they witnessed.

“Yeah, they were pretty fine.” Addison nodded, dragging out the word pity as she grabbed the matinee she left in the woman’s dashboard. “And probably married. Brothas that cute can’t be single. Agents at that. And in that car? I know their women love them.”

“Mmhmm.” Fabiola hummed in agreement, a small smirk on her lips as she nodded her head. She then let out a scoff at a sudden thought. “Probably white women too.” She stated, causing Addison to let one out as well. “Let’s get off that.” Fabiola waved off with a quick roll of her eyes. She couldn’t dwell on the thought of those fine men being tired down so some non-sisters that couldn’t love them and understand like she could.

What the hell am I talking about? I don’t know them and I’m damn sure never gonna to see them again, get over it, girl. This is the adrenaline and sugar talking. She thought to herself.

“Why the hell don’t I know Miami was this crazy? I knew it was fun in the sun but damn, am I gonna get a gun pulled on me?”

“I’m this car in certain areas? Sista they might try to kidnap you for ransom.”

⊹˚₊‧───────────────‧₊˚⊹

My tumblr is tripping, I don’t have a tag list for some reasons so if you want to be part of it, let me know, and pretend that Aaron has an American accent or I will make jokes on why a British man is apart of the United States FBI.

[jazziejax]

𝐌𝐲 𝐒𝐰𝐞𝐞𝐭 𝐑𝐞𝐜𝐤𝐨𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠

𝐏𝐚𝐢𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐬 - Terry Richmond x Black!OC, David Cliff x Black!OC, Jim Beckwourth x Black!OC

𝐒𝐮𝐦𝐦𝐚𝐫𝐲 - Things take a turn for the worst when the Nat Love hangs rolls into Sugar Cane Creek, just to discover that things ain’t as sweet as they seem.

𝐖𝐚𝐫𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐬 - blood, shooting, screaming, cursing, flirting, references to weight, late 1800’s….women in pants, cowboys. Let me know if I missed anything!

𝐉𝐚𝐳𝐳𝐢𝐞’𝐬 𝐍𝐨𝐭𝐞𝐬 - ….I don’t have to explain myself to your, this was purely self indulgent and yall don’t like RJ Cyler enough for me anyways 🙄 UNEDITED, sorry for any spelling errors and grammar mistakes!

𝐖𝐨𝐫𝐝 𝐂𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐭 - 10,187+

Sugar Cane Creek stood out against the dark wilderness surrounding it, its colorful buildings painted in deep blues, warm yellows, and rich reds, a stark contrast to the dust that settled over everything in sight. The infamous town thrived despite its location and always has. A hub of trade, gambling, and entertainment that attracted all kinds—some good, some bad, and some that danced on the razor’s edge between the two.

As the Nat Love Gang rode in, the streets had quieted for the night, save for a few stragglers loitering outside gambling halls. The men rode in on their horses, eyed by the drunkenly swaying few under the glow of lantern lights and the rising moon. Watchful eyes followed the gang as they passed, some curious, some wary, and the seldom flirtatious wave from young girls eyeing the slick crusaders that were Jim Beckwourth and David Cliff. They weren’t the first group of dangerous men to ride through this town—and they wouldn’t be the last. But who’s to say those dangerous men ever made it out?

At first, the gang stopped at The Velvet Spur, the finest hotel in the town, its golden trim reflecting the flickering lamplights hung outside. The place was directly across from the bustling casino, a smart business move. They could practically hear as dice rolled, cards shuffled, and fortunes changed in an instant. The music was loud and thumping as the people inside cheered.

Nat led the way inside, followed closely by Jim and David while Bill and Terry kept watch outside. The old clerk behind the desk barely looked up over his specs from the newspaper he read before shaking his head.

“Ain’t got no rooms left,” He grumbled.

The three men stepped at how quickly they were turned down, causing Nat to blink and then look at the two men next to him. Jim, being the playful young man that he was, took his hat off and held his hand up at Nat, telling him to wait. He then stepped forward, coming closer to the clerks desk. He leaned against the counter, flashing one of his disarming grins. “Now, see, that’s a shame, sir. We rode in all this way—”

“No rooms.” The man repeated, unmoved.

“Well, you ain’t even check the book. How are you so sure there ain’t no more rooms if you ain’t even checked the book?” Jim asked, dropping the nice boy act as he gestured to the resident book that sat next to the man, closed. The older man sighed, finally looking up from his reading and at the young man. “I think I would know if the rooms were full or not, young buck. I work here.”

“Yeah, but you are lookin’ a lil, not so young. You could be mistaken—.” Jim continued before being cut off by Nat.

“That’s alright.” He said, cutting the boy off before he could make their situation worse, watching as the old man’s face turned sour at Jim’s words. “Thank you, sir.” He said, offering the clerk a forced polite smile.

David sighed, adjusting his hat on his head. “Guess that means we’re sleeping under the stars again.” He said with a shake of his head. Jim placed his hat back on his head, giving the old man a nasty once over with his signature cinnamon stick in his mouth, before trying around to face his people. Just as they turned to leave, a young worker was rushing from the back, shrugging on his coat. “I could help ya.” He said, catching their attention.” Overhearing their predicament. The men all turned to face him, the young man coming forward as he adjusted his coat.

“They got rooms at The Sweet Tooth.” He said, hitching his thumb toward the door. “It’s a saloon, but they keep a few beds upstairs. In the rooms. Real good insulation too can barely hear a thang downstairs.” He said with a grin.

It was silent for a moment, the three outlaws eyeing the strangely eager young man. The old clerk just looked between them, wanting nothing more than for the strangers and his off-the-clock coworker to leave so he like read in peace. Jim then looked back at Nat, who eyed him before he gave a single nod.

“Lead the way, then,” Nat said, the trio watching as he walked ahead of them to see the other two men waiting outside next to their horses. “I’m Clarance, by the way.” He told them, giving a polite nod to the men who eyed him by the horses, untrusting. None of them said anything in response to his introduction, simply following him across the dirt path to the saloon, the moon casting a pale glow over the bustling town.

Laughter and music spilled from the establishment, mixing with the occasional distant crack of a pistol—warnings, celebrations, or something in between.

The Sweet Tooth stood at the heart of it all of the town, smack in the middle on the right side. Its name glowed in golden letters above the entrance, the flickering lanterns giving it a warm, inviting haze. It was alive with music and laughter, a stark contrast to the quiet outside. The smell of whiskey, tobacco, and the faint scent of something sweet hung in the air, mixing with the heat of too many bodies packed into one space. The place was packed, as expected, the heavy scent of whiskey and perfume wafting through the open doors. It wasn’t the downright fanciest establishment in town, but it had its charm—polished wood, golden trim, and deep red curtains that framed a small stage where a woman in a fitted blue dress crooned a slow melody.

The young worker turned to face the gang, standing before the saloon doors with an eager nod. “Go on in. Cotton’s got rooms for folks like y’all.”

“Folks like us?” Terry asked, his light-colored eyes striking as he raised a brow, stepping past him.

Clearance grinned. “Roughriders. Outlaws. Gunmen. All kinds.” He shrugged. “She don't much care, long as you got the coin and ain’t too much trouble.”

Nat glanced at David and Jim before nodding for them to enter. They barely made it past the entrance before they were flanked by two burly men and a woman in between them. “Well, well, don’t reckon I’ve seen y’all ‘round here before. Stayin’ or goin’?” She asked, her southern twang filled with nothing but sugar as she looked between them with her big brown eyes. Her smile as inviting as the warm glow of the lanterns inside. Jim and David stepped forward a little, eyes set on the woman while the other men admired from behind. They almost got shoved back by the men at her side, who they eyed threateningly before looking back at the beautiful woman. “We’ll be staying’ for the night. Though I’d rather stay whenever you are.” Jim flirted, not hiding the way he checked the woman out.

“And what might your name be?” David smirked.

The woman just grinned at them, becoming even more beautiful in the men’s eyes. “The names’ Suga. Come on in.” She said, nodding at them to enter before walking away. The group of five men tried to make their way in, before being stopped by the large men again. Suga rushed back, a smile on her face as one of the men grabbed a big chest. “Sorry, forgot to say weapons go the case.” She said. “Not taking them or nothin’, they’ll be up in your room for you to grab after you pay. Just don’t want no trouble.” She explained before looking the closest one, who happened to be Jim, up and down, a certain glint in her eye. A glint Jim caught with a smirk. She then glanced at the rest of the group of handsome men. “And you gentlemen look like trouble.” She said before walking away again. “And I trust you’ll put them all away.”

The men put all of their weapons in the case, watching as the large man closed it before walking away with the case. Jim was the first in motion, following behind where he saw Suga go, the girl leading the men over to a table near the bar.

“Now I know you fine gentlemen are probably tired from your long way here but I gots to find my sister Cotton in order to get you your rooms.” She explained, standing before them as they all situated themselves into chairs. “Settle in for a bit, enjoy the atmosphere, get a few drinks and I’ll be right back, ‘alright?” She said, offering them a sweet smile before turning on her heel. Her long curls whipped behind her. She didn’t wait for a response from them before her attention was on the bar. “Honey, drinks at table 3! And where the hell is Cotton?!” The girl yelled, not even stopping to gain any form of response from the woman behind the bar. Said woman, Honey, simply stopped wiping the bar countertop and watched Suga disappear into the back before then looking over at table three, where the group of men sat.

She let out a small sigh before grabbing a small notepad and the pencil from behind her head, moving from behind the bar through the small door and over to the table only a few feet away. “What can I help you gentlemen to?” She asked them, her tone a little uninterested as she chewed on the end of a toothpick. She was a stunning woman as well, resembling Suga just a bit. Her skin was lighter, her grin was large, her eyes naturally low and her face was sort of long.

The gang took in Honey’s cool, effortless demeanor as she stood before them, pencil tapping against her notepad. She was beautiful, no doubt, but unlike Suga’s flirtatious charm, Honey carried herself with a calmer demeanor, like a woman who had the patience of a monk. Since she was a bartender, having to constantly deal with drunk men and bar fights, probably.

Jim, never one to pass up an opportunity to lay on the charm, leaned forward with a smirk, resting his forearm on the table. “Well now, Honey, I’d say we’ll take whatever you recommend.”

Honey’s expression didn’t change drastically, the woman simply bling at him. But the corner of her mouth twitched like she was holding back a laugh while her eyes squinted a little as she looked down at the attractive man. “Whiskey, gin, or bourbon?” She questioned with a quirk of her brow, chewing her toothpick.

David chuckled under his breath, exchanging a glance with Jim before turning back to the woman. “Whiskey. And whatever you like.” He grinned, taking his hat off and placing it on the table.

Honey raised a brow at him, then scribbled down the order. “I like Vodka. Some you ain’t ever had.” She turned on her heel without another word, leaving the men to watch her go, amusement dancing in their eyes as she swayed away.

Terry leaned back in his chair, folding his arms as he glanced around the room. “Place got some charm, I’ll give it that.” He stated, his eyes alert and ears open as he took in the vibrant place. His eyes kept going back to the stage, where the live band played, women dancing seductively while getting whistled and catcalled.

Bill, who had been quietly observing, gave a slow nod. “Ain’t too often you see a place like this run by women.”

Nat hummed in agreement, eyes scanning the room. “Means they’re either real good at what they do… or real dangerous.”

The saloon fell into a hushed lull the moment they heard the sound of thumping. The men all looked around in confusion and on edge before their eyes drifted to the stage, watching as a woman flanked by two other women walked onto the stage.

A rounder woman stood at the center of the small stage, her brown skin glowing under the dim lantern lights. Her curls were pinned up with only a few strands loose, framing her face. She was dressed in a fitted, off-the-shoulder gown, the color a deep blue and she swayed as she sang, her voice filling the saloon with raw emotion.

“Break them chains and shackles,

Ain’t no man gon’ hold me down…”

The crowd was captivated, hanging onto every note. Some clapped along, others lifted their glasses in admiration, and a few swayed, lost in the song’s spell.

The rhythmic thumping continued, echoing through the saloon like a heartbeat. It wasn’t just the sound of boots against wood—it was deliberate, steady, almost ceremonial. The two women flanking the singer clapped their hands in time, their movements graceful yet firm, adding to the weight of the moment.

“Storm may come, but I won’t tremble,

Gonna walk on free somehow…”

The entire saloon seemed to be under her spell. Even the most hardened outlaws and whiskey-soaked gamblers paused their games, their attention drawn to the woman commanding the room with nothing but her voice.

“Go on, Fluffy!” Someone called from the crowd, a man tapping his boot against the wooden floor in rhythm with her voice.

The men couldn’t deny the effect of her heavenly voice, captivating their attention as well, moving spirits they each thought they lost long ago. Nat’s fingers drummed lightly against the table, his expression unreadable. While David, Jim, and even Bill and Terry leaned forward in interest, watching the curvy woman. Drawn in by both the music and the presence of the women on stage.

David watched, his fingers drumming lightly on the table. “Now that is a voice.” He murmured, his admiration clear as he looked the woman up and down, her size and closet making her chest pop in a whole new way.

Terry nodded in agreement, eyes locked on, as the crowd called her, Fluffy. “Yeah… and a whole lot more.” He added, ignoring the way his companions all eyed him at his out-of-character statement.

Fluffy’s voice soared into the final verse, and for a moment, the entire saloon seemed to hold its breath. Even those deep in their drinks or their poker games turned to watch her, drawn in by the depth of her voice, the weight of her song. As she finished, the room erupted into cheers and applause. Fluffy beamed, taking a small bow before stepping back from the mic. The band behind her kept playing, transitioning into a livelier tune, but all eyes were still on her as she made her way down from the stage.

Honey eyed them all as she made her way back over with their drinks on a tray, following their eyes to her sister who mingled with the band. Still chewing on her toothpick, she smirked at the obvious intrigue they all showed. “Yeah, Fluffy tends to have that effect on people.” She said, catching all of their attention. “But careful now. She might sing sweet, but she’s got more bite than bark. Girls’ mouth is foul.” She told them as she sat the drinks at the table.

“I can handle that.” Jim scoffed, causing the woman to raise a brow at the back of his head since none of the women took their eyes off Fluffy. Well, not Nat and Bill, who eyed the woman giving them drinks. “Okay, hotshot. Go for it.” She scoffed at him, amusement clear in the small grin she held. And Jim, ever the opportunist, wasted no time in standing when Fluffy made her way over to the bar. “That was real nice.” He called out, his signature smirk in place once he caught her attention. “Real nice.”

Fluffy’s eyes landed on him, slowing down her trek only slightly as she made her way to the bar, and for a moment, her expression was unreadable. Then, slowly, her smirk matched his. “That right?” She called back, tilting her head at him.

“Sure is.” Jim drawled, tipping his hat. “Got a voice that could make a man rethink all his sins.”

Fluffy let out a soft chuckle, grabbing the closest drink in sight, that she was lucky to be the water Homey sat out prior, and then backed away from the counter with effortless grace. “And you look like a man with plenty of ‘em.” She told him, placing her hands on her hips.

David nearly choked on his drink, while Terry and Billie tried to hide their amusement by holding their heads down. Even Nat cracked a small smile.

Jim placed a hand over his chest, feigning offense. “Now that ain’t fair. That ain’t fair at all. You don’t even know me yet.” He said, a fake pout on his lips, his cinnamon stick still sticking out his plump lips.

Fluffy, now standing just a few feet away, raised a brow. “Yet? How ‘bout not at all, scrub.” She said, then turning on her heel and walking away from him. David and Terry choked on their laughs while Jim gaped at the woman.

Honey, who had made her way over to the bar as they talked, was now standing behind the bar. She let out a quiet laugh, shaking her head. “What’d I tell ya?” She said before letting out a small laugh and going back to fix more drinks.

Suga then came back from the back and looked a tad agitated with her hands on her hips. “Can’t find Cotton’s behind nowhere. That girl is never in the spot you leave her in.” She grumbled to Honey she came a stole at the bar. The bartender just cleaned cups, looking at her sister with a call face.

“What’d you need Cotton for?” She asked.

“I needed her to check these men in for a room tonight. She’s the one who always does it.” Suga stated.

“And why can’t you do it?” Honey asked, her tone annoyingly calm for the younger girl's liking, causing Suag to squint her eyes at the woman. “Cause I ain’t done it before.” She said firmly.

“Why don’t you just try?”

“Why don’t you just try, huh? Since it’s oh, so, damn easy. It ain’t that simple, Heidi.” Suga spat, slamming her hands down on the counter a tad. That caused Honey to arch a brow at her, eyes turning stern. “Watch your tone, youngin’. Before I douse you in alcohol and throw you in the fire pit.” She said, pointing a finger at the girl. Suga just groaned, bringing out her youngest sister's attitude with the second oldest. She looked at her sister, unbeknownst, or not caring, to the group of men who subtly listened in now and then to their conversation.

“Can you just come help me? Just this once?” She begged. Honey sighed, setting down the cup she had been cleaning and shaking her head as she slapped the rag onto the counter. “Lord, you’re helpless.”

Suga huffed. “I ain’t helpless, I just ain’t done it before!”

Honey just rolled her eyes. “Alright, fine. But you best pay attention, ‘cause I ain’t gon’ be doin’ this for you every time. This caused Suga to beam, grabbing Honey’s wrist and pulling her from behind the bar. The older sister shook her head but let her drag her along, her boots clicking against the worn wooden floors as they made their way toward the check-in area. Honey grabbed the book from the desk before moving back over to the group of men. “Follow me, get y'all settled in.” She said, offering them a polite smile as she nodded her head elsewhere. “Y’all got horses?” Honey asked, looking back at them.

Nat nodded.

She motioned for them to follow. “Come on, then. Stables are out back.”

The night had settled into a steady hum—distant music from the saloon, laughter from the streets, the occasional hoot of an owl. They walked the horses from across the road to the back of the saloon, the stables a good distance from the bar. The Sweet Tooth’s lanterns cast a golden glow over the dirt road as they made their way to the back, where the modest stable stood. The scent of hay and leather mixed with the lingering perfume of the saloon. The horses snorted softly as the men led them into the stables, their hooves thudding against the wooden floor.

Honey moved with practiced ease, unlatching the stable doors and gesturing for them to bring the horses in. “Y’all take that side.” She instructed, pulling her sleeves up. “Ain’t got no stable boys this late, so if you want ‘em fed and brushed, best get to it.” She stated, waiting for the men to lead their horses into the extra rooms available for them.

The men stood there for a moment, only sharing a glance before Honey crossed her arms, watching them with an amused tilt of her head. “Y’all ever put up your own horses before, or you just let the stable boys do it for ya?” She mused, a smirk playing on her lips.

Jim, always the first to have something to say, scoffed as he led his horse inside. “Course we know how to put up our own damn horses. Just ain’t used to bein’ told to do it by a lady.” He stated, shrugging as if it was some simple thought as he looked over at her, still chewing on that same stick of cinnamon. The men, one by one, eased their trusted animals into the available resting spot for the night.

Honey let out a short laugh. “Well, ain’t that a shame? Guess y’all better get used to it ‘round here.” She said, causing Suga to grin as she watched the men put the animals away. David chuckled under his breath, watching as Jim rolled his eyes but got to work. Nat, ever the quiet observer, led his own horse inside without a word, his sharp eyes noting the ease with which Honey moved.

“You run this place, then?” He spoke up and asked, his voice low and even but ever curious.

Honey glanced over at him as she softly kicked a bale of hay next to one of the stalls, mentally reminding herself to move it if Cotton didn’t. “Nah. That’s Cotton’s job. But between me and Suga, we do our best to make sure it don’t fall apart.”

Terry, brushed down his horse with steady strokes from a spare brush he picked up, looking over at her with a small smirk. “And where exactly is this Cotton?”

Honey sighed, pushing the stray curls from her halo braid from her face. “That’s the million-dollar question, ain’t it?” She grinned and then looked toward the saloon as if expecting Cotton to materialize. “Girl’s like a ghost when she wanna be.”

Before she could be questioned further, Jim spoke up, grinning loudly in the dead of night within the hollow stable. “Don’t think I ever had to work for a bed before.” Jim sighed, shaking his head as he ran a hand down his horse’s neck.

Honey grinned, catching his words as she leaned against one of the stable doors. “Ain’t too used to takin’ orders from women either. Well, welcome to Sugar Cane Creek.” She said.

They were just finishing up when the sharp clang of metal rang out, followed by the scrape of buckets rolling across the dirt. “Who’s supposed to be watchin’ the bar and servin’ drinks if you two are back here?” Instinct kicked in—the men straightened, hands twitching toward holsters that weren’t there. Suga and Honey quickly turned from where they stood, Suga opened one of the stable doors to cover her vulnerable sun was shots were fired while Honey gripped the gun hidden in the back of her dress, her tucked shirt riding up.

A figure stood at the entrance to the stable, framed by the lantern light and the shadows of the night. It was a woman, dressed in fitted brown trousers, a crisp white blouse, and a matching leather vest. A hat sat atop her head, casting a slight shadow over her striking features. Her stance was confident, hands were perched on her hips, her sharp eyes scanning the scene. She stepped further into the stables, showing how a single brow arched high as she looked between Suga and Honey expectantly. The lantern light cast a golden glow over her smooth brown skin, and though her stance was firm, there was a hint of amusement in her sharp gaze.

Suga’s slight pains turned into familiarity, a bright smile appearing on her typically bubbly face. “Well, look who finally decided to show up.

“Yeah, you know this place don’t run well without you, Cotton.” Honey teased.

The woman scoffed, crossing her arms. “Don’t play with me, Suga and Honey. You know damn well I was tendin’ to the ranch at Mama’s. Now who’s keepin’ the Sweet Tooth runnin’ while y’all out here flirtin’ and playing table hands?”Her voice was smooth yet firm, carrying over the stableyard like a whip crack. There was something different about her compared to her sisters—less sugar, more steel.

Honey sighed. “Ain’t nobody playin’.” She said.

“And ain’t nobody flirtin’,” Suga added, glancing over at the men. “We’re just settlin’ these gentlemen in.”

At the mention of gentlemen, the woman’s gaze flicked toward the group, scanning them with a quick, practiced sweep. And then let out a dry chuckle, shifting her weight onto one hip. “Oh, really? ‘Cause from what I see, you got a whole mess of men out here playin’ stable boy while the saloon runs damn near itself.”

Jim, never one to miss an opportunity, stepped forward with an easy grin. “Now, I wouldn’t say we’re playin’, miss. Just followin’ orders.” His voice was all honeyed charm, his grin even more so.

The woman arched a brow, unimpressed. “That right?” She turned her gaze to Honey, who merely shrugged. “They needed a place to sleep. No stable boys this late. Seemed only fair they work for it.”

David stepped forward, sensing this was the infamous name they’d been hearing all night. “That you, Miss Cotton?” He asked curiously, eyeing the woman up and down from the stable she stood directly next to, causing her to turn her head and look him up and down. She then met his gaze without hesitation. “Depends. Who’s askin’?” She questioned, quirking a brow at him

Jim, never one to pass up a chance to charm, took a step forward with his best smile. “Jim Beckwourth, at your service.” He gave a small bow as he took his hat off his head. “And might I just say, Miss Cotton, you wear them trousers better than any man I’ve ever seen.”

Cotton only let pout a faux amused hum as she tilted her head at him. “I’m sure you say that to every woman in pants, Mr.Beckworth.”

“I don’t,” Jim replied smoothly. “Only the ones that take my breath away.”

Suga snorted behind her hand while Honey rolled her eyes. “Good Lord.” She scoffed. Cotton, however, remained unimpressed, though there was the slightest twitch at the corner of her eyes as she sized the man up. She then stepped closer, looking Jim up and down with a slow, deliberate gaze before nodding once.

“Hm. That so?” She drawled, before reaching out and tapping the brim of his hat with a single finger. “Well, Mr. Beckwourth, I reckon you best hold onto that breath of yours. You’re gonna need it if you plan on keepin’ up ‘round here.”

Jim’s grin widened. “That a challenge?”

“It’s a fact,” Cotton stated firmly with a smirk. She then hummed a small tune, tapping a finger against her arm as she glanced around at the scene—half-groomed horses, saddles still slung over posts, and a handful of outlaws looking more amused than weary. “Hmph. Well, I’ll take it from here, dear sisters.” She said, walking over to her sinking and taking the reservation book from Honey’s hands. “Thank you, Heidi, Susanna.” She said, a fake smile on her face as she looked between them while the men’s eyes widened some at the revelation of them all being related.

Honey rolled her eyes at the use of her full name. “Don’t start, Cotton.”

Cotton, now properly named, let out a scoff as she shook her head. “Already did.” Then, with a nod toward the men, she tipped her hat. “Let’s go get you brothas settled in properly, shall we?” She said, nodding over to the saloon before she turned on her heel, leading the way back inside and expecting them to follow.

Suga let out a low whistle as the group watched the woman walk away, staying to help the men finish putting the animals up before following after Cotton. “She always knew how to make an entrance.” She said, placing her hands on her hips as her dress swayed in the nightly breeze, more so speaking to her sister next to her, but Jim chimed in from behind the pair as the group followed the woman back in.

“Can’t say I mind it all too much.” He said his grin still in place. David, who had been quietly observing the exchange, let out a small chuckle. “Think we know why she’s the one actually runnin’ things ‘round here.”

Honey scoffed at them, flashing a quick look behind her, but she didn’t deny it. “Y’all done gawkin’ or you need a few more minutes?” She asked, speaking to the main paper that seemed to be on one all night.

Jim continued to smirk, twisting the flavorful fired plant in his mouth. “Guess that depends. You got more sisters hidin’ ‘round here?” He asked, quirking a brow at her. Honey simply narrowed her eyes at him before turning away from them again. “Stable’s done for now. Y’all can come inside if you know how to behave.” She said, eyeing the younger pair of men behind her before opening the doors back into the establishment. Suga snorted, nudging her sister on her way in as they all followed her back into the saloon. “That’s a big if.”

The women led them over to the bar, where Cotton was behind the counter, second a few drinks. She looked up at the movement in her peripheral, catching the group enter. She slid a drink down the counter to a waiting man before setting the dish rag down and then grabbing the reservations book, walking from behind the counter. 

She moved with an air of authority, her hat now gone to show her long white patch of hair at the front of her hair. It was divided into two sections down the middle and going down either side of her face into the two long braids she had going down her back. The unique silver color for a woman her age was setting her apart as much as the tailored vest and trousers she wore instead of a dress. She had a gun strapped to her hip, and two holstered to her back, but it wasn’t just for show—every man in that saloon could see it.

She stopped just a few steps from the table, one hand resting on her hip as she took them all in, her dark eyes sharp and assessing. “How many rooms yall need?”

“Five,” Nat answered. “Just for the night.”

Cotton clicked her tongue, glancing toward the book she held before looking back up at them. “Ain’t got five rooms, but I got three. Two of y’all will have to share.” She stated, her tone leaving no room for disagreement.

Jim and David immediately turned to look at each other, their expressions mirroring the same silent conversation—not it.

“I’ll bunk with Bill,” Terry offered softly, to which Bill simply nodded. Cotton gave a satisfied nod. “Payment’s due upfront. No exceptions. 25 cents a night. She stated. Nat pulled a small pouch from his coat, dropping it onto the table. Cotton took it without hesitation, weighing it in her hand before tucking it away. “Rooms are upstairs. Suga’ll show you to ‘em.” She said. She stared at them for a moment, her flickering over all of them before offering her first smile since she’d met them.

“Enjoy your stay in Sugar Cane Creek, boys.” She smiled. “And just watch yourself with the women in this here establishment. Don’t want to start no trouble where there don’t need to be nun’.” She stated, her smile turning tense before disappearing right before their eyes. “And I don’t quite have the patience for that.” She sneered.

Jim placed a hand over his heart, feigning innocence. “Trouble? Us? Never.” He said, shaking his head as he leaned back in his chair. Cotton, however, wasn’t amused. She just blinked at them. “Y’all keep yourselves in line.” She murmured before turning on her heel to face the two women behind her.

“And you doves can get back to work. This ain’t no social hour.” She said.

Suga rolled her eyes playfully. “Yes, ma’am.” She said as she watched her oldest sister walk away, leaving her to get the men settled in.

“Now that’s a woman,” Jim stated firmly. “I think I’m in love.” He said, watching Cotton walk away from them. David leaned back in his chair, exhaling through his nose, his eyes on the woman as well. “I like this place.”

Terry simply sighed. “You think that every time you meet a woman with a sharp tongue and a pretty face.”

Jim just chuckled, clearly unbothered. “Yeah, but this time, I really mean it.”Nat just chuckled, shaking his head. It was going to be an interesting night.

They all stood from their seats, downing the last of their drinks and following the young woman up the stairs. She led the men up across the room, the beginning of the steps near the stage. The stairs were large and sort of grand for just a saloon, but The Sweet Tooth was different to begin with, starting out with how big it was.

The wood did creak under their weight, however, Suga’s purple dress swaying with each step as she jingled the keys in her hand, drawing the attention of the group of men behind her, almost putting them in a trance.

“Alright, gentlemen, listen up.” She called over her shoulder as they reached the second floor. The hall was sort of like a balcony, with large pillars holding most of the upstairs view from the people down below, but the view from up top gave them a wide angle of the casino. She stopped in the dimly lit hallway, motioning toward the doors ahead.

“This hall here holds rooms three, four, and five.” She handed a key to Nat, another to Bill, and the last to Jim, who twirled it between his fingers with an easy grin. The small metal objects each had a plated tag hanging off of it, showcasing the room number that was also welded on the door. “Y’all are payin’ twenty-five cents a night, no exceptions. If you plan on stayin’ longer, I suggest you pay upfront, ‘cause once the room’s claimed, it’s claimed.” She began before along again, leading them closer to their abodes for the night.

She gestured toward the first door on the left, room three. “Room three’s got two beds, room four’s got two as well, and room five’s got one. If y’all want coffee and breakfast in the mornin’, you’ll either have to take a walk over to The Velvet Spur across the road, they serve food for a price. Or you can head over to Poundcake’s. That’s the diner ‘bout five doors down from here.” She folded her arms, turning around and glancing between them. “Any questions?” She asked sweetly.

David nodded toward the far end of the hall. “What about baths?”

Suga grinned. “You lookin’ to soak or just rinse off?”

David exhaled through his nose, amused. “Preferably soak.” He said, a small hitch in his brow as he looked at the woman.

“Then you’ll have to take yourself down to the bathhouse. Across the way, ‘bout a block down. They got heated water if you’re willin’ to pay extra. But if all you need is a quick rinse, we got a pump out back. Cold as hell, but it’ll do the trick.“

Jim scoffed. “Cold water don’t suit me.” He said, looking the woman up and down. Suga just fluttered her lashes at him as she blinked. “Well, lucky for you, Mr. Beckwourth, I don’t recall askin’.” Suga flashed a playful grin before nodding toward the doors. “Now, go on. Y’all smell like road dust and bad decisions.” She sighed wistfully before moving past them, her sweet scent trailing behind as she disappeared from their vicinity. Jim watched the woman walk away, a mischievous glint in his eye and a smirk on his lips.

The men chuckled as they made their way into their respective rooms. The accommodations were simple but clean—wooden bed frames with thick quilts, a small writing desk, a half bath, and a washbasin in the corner. Though room five, the one David got lucky choosing, had a bath and tub available for him to use. Looks like he landed himself in the couples' suite.

They didn’t waste much time settling in, only taking a moment to stash their bags and pull their weapons from the box those men carried in earlier. They barely had a moment to breathe before a sharp bang rang out from downstairs, the sound of something slamming, followed by the unmistakable sound of a bell being rung inside the saloon.

All five men froze, their hands instinctively going toward their guns. They all rushed out of their rooms, looking over the balcony and into the busy bottom floor, which now stopped what they were doing, looking around and waiting for the bell to stop ringing.

The music halting and the chatter dying made them able to hear the sound of rapid footsteps pounding against the floorboards outside. The door burst open, and a young boy came bursting through the saloon doors, huffing and puffing with his hat in his hands. “Crimson Hoods.”He warned. “Coming in fast.”

The air in the saloon shifted. Voices hushed even more. Everything was still for a moment, among them able to hear the distant sound of hives hitting the ground. This caused Cotton to sigh, coming from behind the bar. “You know the drill. Get to it.” She stated firmly. Her voice wasn’t raised, but it carried through the room like a command, settling into every ear and spine.

And that was all it took.

Chairs scraped against the floor as men pushed back from their tables, downing the last swigs of their drinks before moving swiftly to their places. Guests were led to the back while the workers at the gambling tables grabbed the weapons attached to their person and from under chairs and tables. Some headed for the windows, peeking through the curtains, while others took up positions near other entrances. The saloon moved like a well-oiled machine, each person knowing their role without hesitation. The gamblers armed themselves swiftly, drawing weapons from hidden holsters, under tables, and from inside waistbands.

The piano player shut the lid over the keys and stepped aside, revealing a shotgun tucked neatly beneath the bench. One of the assistant bartenders slipped a pistol from under the counter, checking the chamber before setting it within reach.

Women, too, moved with purpose. A few waitresses strolled toward the back halls, guiding guests and working girls away from the main floor, while others stationed themselves behind furniture, weapons discreetly in hand, from knives to revolvers. The Sweet sisters were no exception—Honey pulled a sawed rifle from behind the bar, Fluffy nicked up her dress and unstrapped the large knife from her thigh, and Suga grabbed the two pistols from Cotton's back holsters as she passed, spinning the chamber before snapping it shut. And Cotton sat the shit fun she has by the door, another two pistols at her for a quick draw.

Upstairs, the men exchanged looks. It was clear this wasn’t the first time Sugar Cane Creek had braced itself for a fight. And it seemed that they had led trouble right to their doorstep.

“Well,” Bill muttered, rolling his shoulders. “Guess unwindin’ will have to wait. He sighed before beginning to walk off towards the stairs. Nat was already moving with him, his expression grim. “Let’s go.” He grumbled. Without hesitation, the rest of the gang followed, boots thudding against the worn wooden floors as they made their way downstairs. “This is one hell of a welcome,” Bill muttered, pressing his lips into an impressed smirk, the thrill of it all thudding in his heart.

The Sweet sisters stood at the door, Cotton giving orders to the men that lingered while Honey and Suga flanked each side of the swinging entrance. “Ajei, Dezba, I want you to upstairs in my office by the window, don’t be seen and shoot on my whistle.” She commanded the two Native dealers, dressed in crisp white shirts, black vests, and slacks, to give her a curt nod before moving. “Let Charles and Sanford know you’re there.” She said, referring to snipers stationed on her roof.

She then turned to the large men who stopped them on their way in. “Gordo, Rito, I want you two to walk out with me when they touch down.” She stated as she moved over to the door, the butt of her shotgun dragging against the ground. And then she stood there, fingers wrapped around her gun. Her sisters stood on either side of the door while Gordo and Rito stationed themselves behind her.

A thick silence then fell over the saloon, making the sound of thudding hooves loud as they got closer and closer. The new group of men all looked at one another, watching as the situation seemed to be going a bit smoothly without them. But they needed to step in. Those hoods were there for them, probably being trailed far back, and led them right into Sugar Cane Creek.

They heard the hooves approaching, the thunderous sound echoing within the quiet bar before they began to come to a halt. The silence in the saloon was thick enough to choke on, broken only by the slow, steady thudding of hooves against packed dirt. The Crimson Hoods were close now. Too close.

Nat and his gang exchanged looks, understanding passing between them without words. This situation was running smoothly without their interference—for now. But they knew damn well that those men weren’t here for the Sweet family. No, they had to have been trailed. Led those rough necks right into Sugar Cane Creek. Nat exhaled sharply through his nose, glancing at his men before giving a firm nod. Time to move.

Once their hooves finally decided to decent slowly, Cortton nodded her head at the drop that surrounded her. Honey and Suga tightened their grip on their weapons while Gordo and Rito pushed the doors open, moving to step outside before their boss did. The air was tight with tension, thick and heavy like the humidity before a storm. There was a long moment of silence before Cotton decided to make her move. She stepped out onto the creaking porch, the only sound slicing through the silence was the slow, deliberate thump of Cotton’s rifle against wooden boards as she strode forward, her boots clicking against the dusty and dried porch.

There they were. The Crimson Hoods, sat still on their horses, a dozen shadowy figures cloaked in deep red. The leader at the front made a show of dismounting once the woman walked out, his movements unhurried, almost lazy. A few of the gang members staggered, trying to follow the man. The supposed ring leader yanked the sack off his head, revealing a smirk stretched across sharp features, the silver gleam of his gills catching in the dim lantern light.

Red Benny.

His name carried weight across parts of the West, whispered in places where men feared to speak too loud. A man who lived for the thrill of conquest, for the chaos his gang carved into the land like a hot knife through butter. For the riches, he’d blow in the same hour of obtaining them.

Cotton squared her shoulders, rifle still in hand but not yet raised. She knew better than to move first.

“Evenin’, Miss Sweet.” Benny drawled, his voice a slow, smooth rasp, like whiskey rolling over jagged rocks. “Ain’t this a fine night?” He asked with a sly grin. Cotton’s expression didn’t waver, her stare locked into his while her men eyed the others next to her. “Depends on who you ask.” She deadpanned as she owned the weight of her gun.

Benny chuckled, shaking his head as he took a bold step forward. The men around him stayed still, waiting for a cue. Neither did Cotton’s men, only soaking the men under her scrutinizing gaze a glance, before focusing on the masked men behind him.

“Now, now,” Benny said, spreading his hands wide as if to show how harmless he was. “No need to be so tense. We’re just passin’ through.”

Cotton’s fingers flexed over the muzzle of her rifle, jaw flexing as she stared down at the man. “Funny thing, Benny. I’ve heard that before, right before a town wound up burned to the ground.” She sighed, moving herself to lean her weight off the large gun and stand firm on her feet, eyes unmoving from his frame. “And that won’t be happening here, boy.”

Benny clicked his tongue, just as a fire lit in his eyes, something full of rage and hatred in them. “You wound me, sweetheart.”

The woman simply let out a small scoff from her place at the center of the porch, moving the rest of her gun on her shoulder. Her movements caused some of the men behind him to reach for their weapons. But Benny quickly held up his hands, signaling them to stop. Cotton simply arched a brow at the bold men behind Benny, not an ounce of fear showing on her at the potential death that almost happened. “Ain’t nobody ever been sweet on you, Benny. And I damn sure won’t be the one to start.”

His grin widened, making his annoyance and bitterness with faux amusement. “That so?” He questioned. Cotton just stared at him, quirking a brow due to the timing since that followed, wanting to see his next movie or he could move on. He let his gaze drift, wiping his nose as his eyes caught the sight of hats moving inside. His eyes landed briefly on the shadows behind the saloon’s swinging doors, where more figures lurked. Cotton’s expression remained unreadable, but the weight of her stare was heavy, unrelenting. The way Benny spoke, all slow and measured, trying to put on that boyish charm, only made her grip her rifle a little tighter.

Then, finally, his eyes flicked toward Cotton’s rifle, still at her side.

“I think you may have something of ours in that saloon of yours, that’s all.” The man said, trying to put on this innocent act while he stalled, only building up the irritation within her. Nat stood near the entrance of the saloon, not even tensing at the man’s mention of his crew, his arms folded as he watched Cotton work. He wasn’t one to intervene in another gunslinger’s standoff unless he had to, and right now? Cotton had it handled, but this was just as much as his fight. And if Benny or his boys so much as twitched the wrong way, Nat’s hand was already hovering near his holster.

Cotton tilted her head slightly. “That so?” She asked, though the infliction in her voice never chanted, bland and dry as ever.

Benny nodded, taking another slow step forward. He was near easy up the steps, making Cotton grip the rule tighter while she discreetly signaled to her sisters at the door with a flick of her finger. “Couple of fellas we was trailing a while ago, we lost ‘em. But then for works pretty quickly that they’d turned up here. You wouldn’t happen to know where they are, would you?” He questioned with a quick tilt of his head and a shrug.

Cotton gave a dry chuckle, her free hand settling on her hip. “Sugar Cane Creek ain’t in the business of harborin’ rats, Benny. If somebody’s here, it’s ‘cause they paid their dues, and that means they got my protection.” She let the words hang in the air, firm and final. David watched quietly, eyes steady on the scene unfolding outside. He hadn’t been in Cane Creek long, but he had learned fast—when Cotton spoke, people listened. She’s got control over this entire town, and she don’t even have to raise her voice. He admired that. A show of force wasn’t always necessary, but Cotton could pull the trigger just as easy as she could talk a man into his grave. And if this went south? He’d be ready.

Benny let out a deep sigh, rubbing a hand over his chin before giving her a look that was equal parts amused and frustrated. “Now, see, that’s the thing about you Sugar Creek folks. Always so hospitable.” His voice was thick with sarcasm. “But sometimes, a good host knows when it’s best to hand over the unwanted guests.” He finished, his jaw clenching near the end of his tangent in agitation.

Cotton rolled her shoulders, letting her weight shift. She glanced at Gordo and Rito beside her, simply blinking at the two men as she pretended to think what she was going to say to him. She caught sight of stragglers hiding, people peeking out of their blinds while the bold, eyed them from around corners. It seemed as if the entire town was watching, waiting, breathing in sync with her.

“I don’t take kindly to folks ridin’ up in my town, throwin’ threats at my doorstep,” Cotton said, voice dropping low. “You and your boys may not be outnumbered, Benny. But what you lack in skill and all-around intelligence, well, you see, I make up for it. Ten times over, matter a fact. In this town, and the next. And, quite frankly, any damn town I step my foot into.” She hissed. “Now…” She began, taking a few steps forward and looking down at the man below the steps, the wind blowing dust on the path he stood on. “You sure you wanna see how that plays out?” She asked with a quirk of her brow.

Ans for the first time, Benny’s smirk wavered, his facade cracking under her hard gaze. She caught just a flicker of something calculating behind his eyes, catching the small twitch in his jaw, a tell to his irritation. She knew she got to him. And he knew Cotton wasn’t bluffing. The Sweet family ran Sugar Cane Creek tight, and a fight here wouldn’t be a fair one, and it wouldn’t be one that ended.

Still, the ever egotistical man that he was, he pretended. He had a reputation to uphold.

His smirk turned into something sharper.

“So,” He murmured, voice still deceptively light, “What’s it gonna be, Miss Sweet? You gonna let us on through and take what we owe, or are we gonna have ourselves a little dance?”

Cotton let the moment as she quirked a brow at his suddenly, allowing Benny to sit in his own impatience, and stupidity for the way going to regret acting tomorrow morning.

Her eyes flicked from him to the men behind him, her eyes squinting in the blowing wind as they all stood still as statues, their hands resting near their weapons. The whole town was waiting, listening. Even the wind seemed to hush, as if afraid to stir the wrong way.

Then, slowly, deliberately, Cotton exhaled through her nose and took one more step forward, standing at the very edge of the porch. Her rifle still rested against her shoulder, but the weight of her stare alone might as well have been a bullet.

“You ain’t owed a damn thing.” She annunciated slowly, voice smooth as warm honey but hard as the steel barrel of her gun, raising a bit as she reached her peak. “Not by me, not by this town.”

Benny’s smirk tightened, but his fingers twitched at his side. He wasn’t used to being told no.

Cotton just tilted her head slightly, her tone turning mocking as she continued. “You said you lost ‘em. So tell me, Benny, how’s that my problem?” She asked, blinking at him.

Benny chuckled, but there was no humor in it. “Y’see, that’s the thing, Miss Sweet. I don’t like losin’ things. And when I do, I tend to get ‘em back—one way or another.”

Cotton’s lips barely twitched. “That a threat?”

“Ain’t a threat if it’s a promise.”

The town was holding its breath now. Cotton could practically feel her sisters at her back, feel the tension thickening in the air like a storm rolling in.

She clicked her tongue. “Well, then, let me make you a promise, Benny.” She lowered her rifle from her shoulder, resting the butt against her hip, one hand still wrapped around the barrel. “You take one step further, and I put your black ass in the dirt where you stand.” She spat.

Benny stilled.

The men behind him straightened.

Cotton didn’t move an inch.

Then, Benny exhaled through his nose, a slow, sharp breath, before he finally took a step back. He glanced once more at the saloon doors, catching nothing. Then at the eyes peering through windows, at the large men flanking Cotton. His jaw worked as he mulled it over.

But before he could make a decision, Cotton let out a slow, lilting whistle, the sound carrying in the wind.

Then—chaos.

It all happened in a blink. A loud shot rang out, and the man fell to the ground with a sharp pain shooting through his right arm. Benny screamed in anguish as the searing heat bobbled up his arm. He barely processed what he felt and what had happened before another shot tore into his other arm. But his loud exclamations of pure pain were unheard over the cries from the other men as the sniper's bullets howled they found their marks with the rest of the Crimson Hoods.

Benny fell to the ground at the pain, wailing at the top of his lungs at the hot bullets felt as if they boiled under his skin. Cotton slowly descended the steps, her cold eyes trained on the screaming man on the ground as he bled out, her boots slow and measured against the wooden steps until they hit the dirt road.

Controlled chaos ensued around them, Honey and Suga popping out from behind the doors and shooting at hoods that tried to run or pull out their weapons, gunfire cracking through the air. Nat and his gang followed—their fastest gunslingers, David and Jin, moving like shadows, their revolvers striking true. Terry and Bill picked their shots with lethal precision, their rifles sending men to the dust with every pull of the trigger. Nat himself moved like a man with nothing to lose, his pistol barking in his hand.

Cotton stood over Benny, who writhed in the dirt, clutching at his bloody arms, looking down at him as he cried out in anguish. It wasn’t long before gunfire quieted and pains turned back into silence. The last of the Crimson Hoods either lay dead or had fled into the night with injuries they wouldn’t survive. The town, once holding its breath, now released it in a tense, waiting silence.

Save for the lead man, who was now bleeding with the rest of his fallen soldiers. Cotton only looked up from the man when caught the sounds of pleading from next to her, looking over to see David pressing the barrel of his gun to the last man standing. She cast a sharp whistle to catch his attention. When he glanced at her, she shook her head. “Not him.” She said, and David didn’t argue, while she didn’t explain before looking back down at the infamous Red Benny.

“Now you know not to ever try me again.” She stated, not caring if the man heard her over his own screams, Her voice was calm, nearly bored.

She blinked at him. Then, without hesitation, she shot him in the leg. Benny emitted a loud cry.

Cotton barely blinked before turning her attention to the last remaining Crimson Hood. She walked up to him, yanking the burlap sack from his head before gripping his jaw, her fingers digging into his skin until he winced.

“You take him. Take that horse.” She nodded toward the wounded Benny and the tethered stallion nearby, most of the others either running away or dying in the line of fire of the man brawl. “And you get the hell up outta here. I see—or even hear either of your names—I’ll kill you slow.” She spat. The man frantically nodded, causing Cotton to push his face away from her hands. She watched as the man scrambled and gathered Benny and the horse as best as he could ride off, the woman not turning away until she couldn’t see them and could no longer hear Benny’s cries.

Cotton waited until they were gone before she turned, dusting her hands off onto her pants. She then took off her hat to smooth down the front pieces of her hair that came up, her silver money pieces giving her an odd sense of youth. Once straightened, she turned on her heels. “Somebody come clean this shit up!” She called out, stepping back into the saloon without so much as a glance at her family and newfound allies.

The town was still, silent in the aftermath. The only sounds left were the soft clinking of spent shells on the blood-streaked dirt and loud crickets from the forest near yonder.

Jin twirled his revolvers once before sliding them back into their holsters, looking at her walk away with something between respect and amusement. “Ain’t never seen a woman put a man down that quick and still have time to fix her hair after.” He said, admiration somewhat in his tone.

Cotton didn’t respond. She just stepped past them. The moment she crossed the threshold, the tension in her shoulders loosened—but only just. She wasn’t done yet. Inside, the saloon was eerily quiet. People had ducked behind tables, cowered near the walls, or simply frozen in place, waiting to see how the night would end. Her men unstationed themselves, putting their smoking guns down at the sight of no more danger.

Cotton closed her eyes as she rolled her neck, the weight of the night settling in, but she didn’t let it show. Gin still in hand, she walked straight to the bar, grabbed an empty glass, and poured herself a shot of whiskey with steady hands.

She threw it back in one smooth motion before slamming the glass on the counter. Then, without looking, she called out, “We got about ten minutes before more folks come snoopin’. Y’all best start cleanin’ up.” Knowing that her sisters and their new friends had followed her inside, all in a state of limbo at what just occurred.

Honey was the first to move, stepping in and surveying the damage with a nod. “I’ll get someone to strip the bodies for what they have, Gordo and Rito will move them.” She said, already heading for the door again.

Suga clicked her tongue, lazily wiping down the counter as if that would somehow erase the tension still lingering in the air. “Guess that means me and the girls are on blood duty.” She pouted a little, referring to the other waitresses at the bar.

This caused Fluffy to smack her lips, cutting her eyes at her sister. “So I’m on graveyard duty? Again?” She asked, holding her hands on her hips. “My digging clothes are dirty.” She added. Cotton, who had just thrown back another shot, slammed the glass down with a dull thunk. She turned to Fluffy, unimpressed. “Good, ‘cause they’re just gonna get filthy again. Now take four of them men and get to it.” She said, nodding her head over to the working men of the bar. None of the women even had to ask, they didn’t even have to speak, before four of them jumped into action, heading out to the stables to grab supplies to get to digging a mass grave out back.

Once the women left to do their duties for the night, Cotton took one last shot before looking around at the customers who still lingered. “Y’all ain’t gotta go home, but you gotta get the hell up outta here.” She stated, causing the non-staying customers to hurry and scurry out of the saloon, not even caring about the money they left behind for the establishment to take.

Outside, the scraping of boots against dirt and the hushed whispers of those still brave enough to linger filled the air.

Cotton looked over at the group of men who seemed to be nothing but trouble, but she knew tonight wasn’t entirely their fault. Her eyes were back to their dull and unimpressed glint, rhetorical hatred, and quiet anger she felt earlier not in sight. She looked between them before simply blinking. “Welcome to Sugar Cane Creek, this is the Sweet Tooth and I hope you enjoy your stay.” She said, offering the most subtle polite smile before making her way upstairs and down a hall on the opposite side of the saloon, disappearing for the night.

The group of unfamiliar men might’ve been watching before, admiring the beauties The Creek had to offer, but now they knew.

Sugar Cane Creek wasn’t just a town.

It was her town.

[jazziejax]

It’s these two pictures right here!!!

This do David Cliff coded…and imma use them for it too.

[jazziejax]

𝐒𝐦𝐨𝐤𝐞 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐒𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧

𝐏𝐚𝐢𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐬 - David Cliff x Black!OC

𝐒𝐮𝐦𝐦𝐚𝐫𝐲 - In which David meets a woman so alluring in a place so vibrant and magnetic

𝐖𝐚𝐫𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐬 - seductiveness(???), drinking, idk really know….

𝐉𝐚𝐳𝐳𝐢𝐞’𝐬 𝐍𝐨𝐭𝐞𝐬 - this was supposed to be something small and one off, that why the songs I chose are basic but it turned into something more…she want even supposed to have a name but here we are. UNEDITED, sorry for any spelling errors and grammar mistakes.

𝐖𝐨𝐫𝐝 𝐂𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐭 - 7,542+

The chatter within the café was soft, the sound of ceramic dishes cloning together louder than the sound of actual voices within the small establishment. David sipped at the hot coffee from the beautifully colored mug he was given, the taste of three creamers and an unknown amount of sugars packets making the beverage just to his liking. The sun was shining through the windows of the place, surprisingly with gentle rays in the summer heat. The soft bell above the door would ring every now and then, people leaving with their order or a new person entering only minutes after the other. And although everything seemed to swell on this fine summer day, David couldn’t help but be a little down as he sat across from Margaret, sipping at his drink

“You’re talented, David.” The woman across from him said, her head tilting a little as she started in his eyes. And the man couldn’t help the way he thought she looked a little adorable any time she did that, fighting the urge to upturn the corner of his lip. “More than talented. But if we’re gonna make you the next big thing, we have to be a little more strategic.” She finished, tapping her manicured nails against the table.

David leaned back in his chair, unimpressed. “Strategic as in what? A gimmick? A viral moment?” He asked in a dull tone, fed up with the way the industry seemed to enjoy curated content rather than authenticity. He has all that, he had the life most artist wanted, the money at least. He just wanted to make music the people’s loved, music that spoke to others. Music that he felt was worthy. Not some pop record that he would have to preform at ‘I Heart Radio’.

Margaret sighed. “Strategic as in exposure.” She said, a small smirk on her lips as she placed her hands on top of the table. “The right rooms, the right performances, the right people.” She grinned. “And I’ve heard about this place once—Smoke and Satin. It’s supposedly the real deal. Classic jazz spot, live music, fancy dressed, invite-only type of scene.”

David raised a skeptical brow, his back still against the metal chair as he tapped his long finger on the side of the hot mug. “And you’ve been there?” He questioned.

This caused Margaret to hesitate, the pale girl opening her mouth for a response as she moved to play with her long brunette locks. “Well…” She began, her voice a little high her than before as David’s brow arched higher, his eyes squinting some. “Well, uh, not exactly. But I know people who have.” She said with an unsure laugh.

David blinked at her. “Do you?” He asked, his tone not changing from before, even at her obviously apparent lie. Margaret let out a sigh, shoulders deflecting some at her stupid attempt to hide anything from the observer man. “Yeah, no.” She said a little dejectedly. David pursed his lips with a nod, but Margaret was quick to reiterate. “But I did know a guy that lived in the apartment complex above the joint sometimes I cooks hear the music when I was in the lobby.” She tried to reassure. David just blinked at her, his eyes still slightly squinted as he brought the cup down from his lips.

“What, you used to date this guy or something?” He asked. He couldn’t help but change the subject at her words, because now he was more curious about that than the actual music spot. Plus, the tension and…situationshhip between David and Margaret was no secret, to them at least, they knew. But it was nothing serious, and the other wasn’t sure of their partner wanted it to be serious, so they were in this weird state of limbo and sexual desire.

Margaret sighed at his words, rolling her eyes at him as a don’t smirk graced her face. “That’s not important.”

“Well, I think it is important.” David slightly grinned. “I mean, I’m technically going to this man’s house. Imagine he comes downstairs to see us in his lobby.” He said, and he couldn’t help but laugh at the thought, of Margaret bringing her current “fling” to her old guys place of residence, even though they were technically waiting in this supposed renowned music spot.

“It’s gonna be fine, David.” Margaret grinned along with him. “If you stall on this anymore, I’ll start thinking you’re getting cold feet, mister.” She said, raising her brows at him before being her coffee to her lips. David jerked his head back at her, a playful smirk on his lips. “David does not get cold feet. There is nothing cold about David Cliff.” He smirked. Margaret just rolled her eyes at him, bring the cup down as David’s smile widened some more. “You should know.” He stated. And Margaret almost chocked on the hot beverage at his words, looking up into the seductive eyes of the man across from her who still held a grin.

David was doing anything to distract his mind from the stress that came with music most time, and he couldn’t help but be a little intrigued by the music spot, Smoke & Satin. He didn’t want to be just another industry puppet. He wanted his music to be felt, not mass-produced. He wanted it to be passionate and for it to have meaning. And if Smoke and Satin really had that authenticity, maybe it was worth checking out.

It wasn’t long before night came, and that’s when they had planned to visit the spot. That night, they arrived at a place called Lullaby’s Lounge, the building that housed Smoke and Satin. It looked like something out of another era—a blend of modern upkeep and vintage charm, resembling an old luxury hotel. The golden lighting from the entrance cast a warm glow on the polished black-and-white tiled floors. The place has sort of an art deco style to it, the chandler’s hanging making the place bright but calm. It was nothing like the grittier, hole-in-the-wall places David expected from a so-called authentic jazz spot. He was dressed in a normal suit, although he spiced his outfit up with a green dress shirt and sweater, giving the outfit a pop of color.

Margaret was dressed nicely as well, her long brown hair flowing down her back, dressed in a simple black dress that reached below her knees with a square neckline. They both analyzed the room as they walked in, but were intercepted by the polite voice of a man near the door. “How may I help you two this evening?” They looked over to see a ginger man, dressed in a simple tuxedo. Margaret smiled at him. “Uh, we’d like to go into Smoke and Satin, please.” She said. The man grinned, giving them a small and barley noticeable bow. “Right this way.” He said before walking before them, heading to the left.

Since the apartment and the bar were essentially different spots, he led them to an area directly parallel to the door, passing for the feminine windows until they made it to a hotels booth. Now David thought the club being there was pretty obvious for a place that’s supposed to be weird if mouth, could see the place with a simple turn of your head once your entered. But he figured it was that way to not disturb the actual residents of the complex above that were just trying to go about their day.

“Here we are.” The ginger man said, leading them to the small line outside the large, dark wooden doors behind the woman at the podium. “You two have a wonderful evening.” He flashed them a pearly grin before moving on his way, back to where he found them. David tried to ignore the look the man gave them, noticing the small eye sawing the glint in his eye. He tossed the interaction up to him assuming David and Margaret were a couple, and that was fine by him.

As they stood in line outside Smoke and Satin, the warm night air carried the distant hum of jazz from within. The line moved slowly, filled with people dressed in sleek suits, silk dresses, looking effortless out together. Margaret adjusted the long strap of her small bag, shifting onto one heeled foot. “You’re quiet.” She said softly, looking over at him.

David exhaled, eyes scanning the golden-lit entrance. “Just taking it in.”

Margaret smirked. “I doubt that, you’re never taking things in. You’re thinking something.”

David soared her a small glance, trying to hide to stop the smile that wanted to appear in his lips at just how much she knew him. His gaze then drifted back to the doors behind the hostess, trying to catch a glimpse into the place anytime another wakes in as the door was held by the tall man standing next to it. “I don’t like scenes like this.” He stated.

This caused her to raise a brow, ceasing her arms. “Scenes like what? Exclusive? High-end? Full of people who actually know good music?” She inquired playfully, causing him to cut his eyes at her. “Scenes where people think they know good music.” He reiterated firmly.

“You’re such a snob.” Margaret scoffed, though a grin was apparent in her lips.

David smirked. “I’m particular.”

She sighed, tilting her head toward the entrance. “Look, all I’m saying is—if this place is as good as I’ve heard, maybe you should enjoy it instead of tearing it apart before we even get in.”

David rolled his shoulders. “We’ll see.”

Margaret studied him for a second before nudging him lightly with her elbow. “You need to get out of your head. Have a drink. Maybe even—God forbid—have a good time.” She stated.

David shook his head, but there was amusement behind his eyes. “I’ll consider it.” He said with a coy shrug, causing the girl to let out a small laugh, both unbeknownst to the man they waited in line behind them, eyeing the two.

The line eventually led them to the front desk, where they were met with a knowing smile from the host. “Reservations?” The tan skinned Asian woman asked them, flashing them a polite smile. Margaret glanced towards David at that, a little taken aback at the new information, before looking back at her. “I didn’t know we needed them.” She said, letting out a small nervous laugh.

The host gave a polite but firm smile. “Most nights, no. But when she sings, we fill up quick.” She said, giving them a light nod.

“She?” Margaret and David asked at the same time.

“Stella Mougly.” The name was spoken with reverence from the hostess and a deep voice from behind them. Before either Margaret or David could turn around and respond to the woman in front of them, a man stepped in beside them—a tall, well-dressed figure with light brown skin, enticing eyes and an air of familiarity about the place. “Let them in, they’re with me.” He said smoothly. “You got it, P.” The woman at the desk said as she gave a playfully stern nod. The man, ‘P’, as she called him, gave her a small laugh, his voice deep as he passed the pair and moved over to the doors.

David and Margaret exchanged looks before trailing behind the man, who led them through the lobby and into Smoke and Satin. The interior was cozy—their lighting was romantic, the seats were covered in this sexy green velvet, the floors had the same polished checkered patterns as the thick stripes in the lobby. David didn’t see how such a place bled authenticity.

Their guide turned to them with a grin as they walked through the establishment. “Lucky night for you two.” He said. “I’m Pierre, the manger.” He said before turning back around and maneuvering his way though . They walked through what looked to be the common area, some people sat in booths and at well decorated tables that were wrapped in a thick table cloth. This area also seemed to be more crowded, booths lined the wall while the tables were close enough for a person to fit through.

They thought their seats were gonna be there but they continued to follow the man that invited them in, not questioning his friendly nature. Pierre passed the bar on the other side of the wall, the trio walking down the checkered path that was available in case you wanted another drink. Passing the bar, he spoke to the man behind the counter. “Wassup, Bernard.” He called out, causing the man to look up. The brown skinned man with a thick mustache smiled at him, giving him a small salute as he flashed his perfectly straight teeth with his silver grills. “Wassup, P!” He cheered before going back to mixing the drinks in front of him.

The pair behind the tall man were then led to further into the room, passing some men who opened a velvet rope for them and then going down some steps that separated this sitting area from another. This section was separated from the other, an styled a little different but still styled cohesively. The floors were a dark brown wood, matching the tall walls not covered in picture frames, records and instruments. The lighting was dim and candles sat at the center of the occupied tables, encasing them into this romantic atmosphere. There was plush red-velvet seating, chandeliers that dripped from the ceiling like golden constellations and hum of conversation mixed with the soft melodies of a live band warming up.

Margaret and David were in love with the place as is, but this section was something more. It was alive.

Pierre led them through the large room, passing people dressed to the nines and in chatting away. The man stopped a table in the center of the room, the chairs almost like small couches with how large and plus they were. They were also set up sort of like a booth, two small sofas on either side of table while the other ends held large cushioned chairs as well. “These are some of the best seats in the house.” Pierre smirked as he took a seat in one of the chairs at the end of the table, while gesturing for David and Margaret to have a seat on the plush sofa.

They sat down and almost immediately, a waiter was at their table. “Any drinks in mind?” They looked up to see the same ginger man from earlier, a polite smile on his face as she place the leather menus down on the table. Margaret and David glanced at each other since they didn’t know what the place had.

“I’ll take an a sidecar.” Pierre said, not even opening his menu for food as he looked down at the fancy silver watch on his left wrist.

“Uh, I’ll have a Negroni, I’d you serve that.” Margaret said. The ginger man smiled at her whilst nodding. “Yes, we do.” He said before turning to David, and the man couldn’t help but to see that same flint in his eye. “And you, sir?” He asked, not even bothering to write any of the drinks down. “I’ll take an old fashioned.” David stated. The bright haired man hummed. “Ah, excellent choice, monsieur. I’ll have those to you in no time, let me know when you want to dinner.” He said before drifting away from their table in the blink of an eye.

One he was gone, Pierre looked at the pair, a soft smile on his face. “May I ask the name of the two people I invited to enjoy dinner with me?” He asked as he picked up the match box from the center of the table and sparked a light, the small ember brightening his face as he leaned to light the wax sticks at the center of the table. Their attention snapped over from admiring at the place to the man’s at the other end of the table, watching as he set the atmosphere further.

“Oh! I’m Margaret.” She smiled at him.

“David.” The man said with a small smile and a simple nod of acknowledgement. Pierre nodded with a hum, sparing a quick glance down at his watch again before looking back up with a grin. “Well, welcome to Smoke & Satin, one of the best places on earth. Time spent here is more than just an event. It’s a feeling not many get to experience, so I hope you enjoy.” He said. And it seemed that checking the time on his wrist time everything perfectly, since the waiter from before being over their drinks on the silver platter. “Here are your drinks.” He said, sitting there glasses down on the crème colored cloth that draped the table.

“Thank you.” David said, making sure to give the man his gratitude. “You are welcome, monsieur.” The man said before sitting a drink down in front Pierre. “Thanks, Hughy.” The green eyed man thanked him ginger. “No problem, P.” He said before walking away. David couldn’t help but to squint his eyes as he sipped his drink, not only at the intersection between the two, but also just at the ginger man in general.

Is he…flirting with me? He questioned himself as he smacked his lips a little, savoring the smooth bourbon. The thought lingered in his mind as he sat the glass down, questioning the eyes and the doorman turned waiter was giving him, and the French word that simply meant ‘Sir’, but felt like it had a different meaning to him. They were only got a few sips into the beverage before the light around them dimmed further, causing the room hush. A spotlight flared to life, illuminating the red curtains on the stage about twenty steps away.

A smooth voice resonated through the speakers, deep and velvety as it spoke. “Ladies and gentlemen, we have our most esteemed guest of the evening. Sit back and relax to the most wonderful, the most talented, and just down right gorgeous… Stella Mougly.”

The curtains parted.

And there she was.

She was dressed in a sheer, tiger-print babydoll dress, that thin material shimmering under the soft glow of the stage light as the music began to play. The delicate fabric draped over her body like liquid silk, giving teasing glimpses of her figure. There were specs of glitter dusted across her brown skin, making her glow like something celestial. Her hair was long and black with subtle waves in it, making her look even more exotic and intoxicated. Dainty gold jewelry adorned her wrists and neck, catching the light with every subtle movement. Her heels were like gold as well, a thin strap going across her ankle and across the ends of her polished toes.

“Ooh, la-la-la-la.” Was sung by the deep voices of the band as they eased into the song.

And then she sang.

“I did you wrong. My heart went out to play. But in the game I lost you."

"What a price to pay.” As she sung that last part, the lights became a little brighter to show the men that were singing as they played the instrument behind her. She smiled as she spared them a quick glance before going back to singing.

Her voice—soft, sultry, effortlessly controlled—wrapped around the melody of 'Ooh, Baby, Baby' by Smokey Robinson & The Miracles. The live band played in the shadows behind the spotlight, letting her be the centerpiece, the guiding force.

“I'm cryin'. Ooh, baby, baby. Ooh, baby, baby.”

She moved with ease, swaying with the music as she glided across the stage in a slow pace. The band’s harmonies rolled like smooth waves beneath her voice, their presence steady but never overwhelming. Stella’s sultry tone melted into the melody, drawing the audience into her grasp as effortlessly as a siren luring sailors to sea. She moved with intention—each step, each glance, each soft note weaving an intoxicating spell.

“Mis-takes, I know I’ve made a few,” She crooned, her voice dipping into a gentle rasp that sent shivers down spines. She reached out towards the crowd, her nude colored nails catching the dim glow of the chandeliers above. “But I’m only human, You’ve made mistakes too…oooohhh.”

The hush in the room was thick with longing. Conversations had faded into whispers, drinks were momentarily forgotten. Eyes followed her every move as she sauntered toward the grand piano at the far end of the stage, closer to the crowd. “I’m cryin’,” She sang again, this time softer, letting the words linger before rolling into the familiar, aching refrain. “Ooh, baby, baby…”

The pianist’s fingers ghosted over the keys, his touch delicate yet assured. Stella trailed a fingertip along the glossy black surface of the instrument as she circled it, her dress shimmering under the low lights.

“Ooh, baby, baby,” She repeated, her voice like warm honey, eyes lidded as she let the music carry her, eventually making her way atop the grand piano at the edge of the stage the the help of a hidden step stool.

“I'm just about at the end of my rope.” She sung into the microphone as she came into a resting position upon the sleek instrument effortlessly, leaning her weight on her right hand while her legs were thrown to the side in a seductive crossing. A small bouquet of roses sat at the center of the piano, wrapped in a satin gold bow. “But I can't stop tryin', I can't give up hope.” She continued, her eyes flickering over the crowd she could barely see due to the bright light beaming down in her.

David was entranced.

The world blurred. The chatter of the audience, the clinking of glasses, even Margaret beside him—it all faded. There was only her. He watched as he pulled a rose from the bundle before her, the dark red a nice contrast to her honey skin that glistened with her every movement.

“ 'Cause I feel that one day I'll hold you near.” She sung, her voice lifted highly match that of dear Smokey as her eyes drifted to the young man playing with focused intensity. He faced up at her, flashing her a large white smile that complimented his deep skin well. “Whisper, "I still love you. Until that day is here.” She sung softly as she leaned further towards the man the played the piano before her, letting the petals of the flower brush against his lips before trailing it down. She ran the flower along his chest that was covered by the black and white tuxedo.

“I'm cryin'.” The pianist stole a quick glance at her, his fingers never faltering but his ears burning red. Her heels dangled, catching the light, and the faintest hint of perfume drifted toward the pianist, who was doing his best to keep his focus on the music rather than the woman now practically lounging atop his instrument. A smirk tugged at her lips as she leaned closer, watching the way his Adam’s apple bobbed when he noticed her lingering presence.

She was practically laid out on top of the instrument now in order to tease the musician.

“Ooh, baby, baby,” She cooed one last time, drawing out the final note, her voice floating like smoke, lingering even as the music faded. With a teasing smile, she let the flower drift lower as she turned over onto her back, its stem tracing the air just above his knuckles. He flinched slightly, barely suppressing a flustered chuckle, his dimples making an appearance as he tried to shake it off. “Ooh-ooh, baby, baby. Oo-hoo-ooh, baby, baby. Ooh-ooh.” She continued to sing, laid out on her back as one of her legs bent at the knee, her full body shining under the spotlight.

A beat of silence followed before the applause erupted, a mix of whistles, cheers, and appreciative murmurs filling the room. David blinked at it ended, letting out a breath he didn’t know he was hiding as she small smile graced his lips before he began calling along with them. The lights the shift off again, encapsulating them in darkness as they waited for the next act.

"Ladies and gentleman, welcome, The Midnight Muses." The lights slowly brightened as the unmistakable drumbeat of Be My Baby by The Ronettes began, that iconic, heart-thudding rhythm filling the air. A hush fell over the crowd, anticipation thick as smoke in the dimly lit lounge. There, with a soft glow illuminating the stage, Stella stood—standing tall at the center, draped in a new black boa that had to be given to her in the darkness, her presence commanding yet effortlessly elegant as she danced along to the thumping beat before they began.

To her left, slightly behind, stood her backup singers, dressed in matching black baby doll dresses. Their silhouettes were sharp, their high ponytails swaying ever so slightly as they moved in perfect synchronicity.

“The night we met, I knew I needed you so. And if I had the chance, I’d never let you go.” Stella sang, her voice warm and inviting, wrapping around the melody like silk. The boa curled in the crook of her elbows, its feathery texture contrasting against her smooth skin. Her backup singers swayed, their harmonies tight, a perfect echo to her lead. “So won't you say you love me?” She continued, following the same choreography as the girls behind her, being her arms out in a pleasing motion. “I'll make you so proud of me. We'll make 'em turn their heads every place we go.”

Her eyes flickered across the crowd, a knowing smile tugging at her lips as she shifted her grip on the boa, her fingers brushing against the soft feathers as the chilies dropped. “So won't you, please.”

“Be my, be my baby.” The girls behind her sung, their voice harmonized perfectly, the sound soft but powerful.

“Be my little baby?” Stella continued, her voice capitulating the perfect raspiness of Ronnie Spector. “My one and only baby.”

“Say you'll be my darlin'.”

“Be my, be my baby.”

“Be my baby now (My one and only baby) Whoa-oh-oh-oh.”

Then, as the music swelled, she took her first step down the stage’s grand staircase. She moved slowly, purposefully, letting the song breathe as she descended into the audience.

“I’ll make you happy, baby, just wait and see, For every kiss you give me, I'll give you three.” She promised, each note carrying a teasing lilt as she eased onto the dining floor, the crowd clapping along, enchanted by her presence among them. She trialed her fingers along some propels shoulder as she passed them, singing powerfully within the audience.

David was watching, his eyes never leaving her, even as he took a large sip from his glass, gaze trained on her at her over the brim as she moved within the crowed. And he could’ve sworn her eyes caught his as she continued to sing. “Oh, since the day I saw you, I have been waiting for you. You know I will adore you 'til eternity.”

From the moment she stepped off that stage, his eyes never left her. He leaned back in his seat, one arm resting along the back of his chair, but his body was taut, his focus razor-sharp.

And then before he could even think about it—she was there. At the same table as him, singing her beautiful song. She draped an arm around Pierre, offering him a soft smile through her singing before slowly dragged it away, her soft hands growing over his expansive suit.

She then sifted around the table, leading to the boa trailed along David’s shoulders, a feather-light touch against his skin. His breath caught, though he masked it well. The world around him dimmed, the clinking of glasses and murmured conversations fading into nothing. Her voice—low, sultry, hypnotic—wrapped around him like the boa itself, pulling him deeper into her gravity.

“So won’t you, please…” She continued as she pulled the black scarf around the man, whose eye didn’t leave her once. The words curled between them, her eyes locked onto his. “Be my, be my baby?”

David’s lips parted, but he said nothing, just watching—captivated, mesmerized.

She was singing to him. She had to be. He knew it. He felt it.

“My one and only baby,” She crooned, the intensity of their eye contact sending a charge through the space between them as the Blake scarf slowly forged from his figure. “Be my baby now!”

Then—just as quickly as she had ensnared him—she was gone.

She turned on the “Whoa-oh-oh-oh!” spinning away, leaving nothing but the lingering warmth of her presence and the faint scent of of jasmine as she moved through the tables and back to the stage.

The crowd erupted, their cheers filling the lounge as she hit the final notes, her backup singers right in step, harmonizing flawlessly until the music came to a dazzling close.

A thunderous applause followed, whistles and calls of her name ringing out as she stood center stage once more, soaking it all in.

And David—David sat there, still feeling the ghost of her boa on his shoulders, still hearing her voice in his ears. For the first time in a long time, the infamous playboy was at a loss for words.

Stella smiled, radiant and full of life and she waved and bowed to the crowed with her singers next her. She then turned to blow kisses to the band behind her. The stage lights dimmed again, bringing everything back to its romantic atmosphere as she gave the crowd another playful wave before disappearing backstage.

Pierre turned to them with a deep chuckle, still elated from the small performance as he watched David and Margaret‘s expression. “She gets to you, huh?”

Margaret exhaled. “She’s incredible. That was… effortlessly amazing.”

David frantically blinked, still processing. “She’s a true performer. But more than that—her voice is clean. You hear how she bent those high notes? That’s a real soprano, but she’s got jazz in her chest. Her breath control is crazy.”

Pierre’s grin widened as he slightly arched a brow at the man adjacent to him. “Well, look who knows there stuff.” He said with a small smirk, gesturing to David as he glanced at Margaret, who shared a small smile with the man as well. “I told you. Smoke and Satin isn’t just a place. It’s a feeling. The history here is deep.” He said, sitting up more in is seat as he began to explain the lore of Smoke and Satin, not caring if they didn’t care to hear.

“As you can tell by walking in, Smoke and Satin is the restaurant/ jazz bar, connected to the apartment complex that we call The Lullaby’s Lounge. The complex was actually the first black owned business in Los Angeles, which sort of gave it an easy target for racism, especially being in closer to white neighborhoods of that time. All people tried their damndest to turn this into another example of a ghetto, white people to love a point that all blacks were alike while black people thought the others that lived there were saditty and sell outs. Not long after all their attention since opening, the establishment gained a lot of traction.” He stated.

“It soon became a place of refuge during the civil rights era. Rallies, meetings, after school programs, different practices, hell, church, were all held at this building at some point. Right in that room over there.” He said counting over to the lit section that the pair had to walk though to get to the section they were in. He then gestured to the room they were sitting in. “This little VIP-esque section was actually hidden. It was a secret jive joint that brought in black folks from all over. A place for grown folk to unwind from their hard days of trying to gain freedom. This room would hold everything from poetry to swing dances. It’s a place of comfort for the community, and it still is in way. The owners still live in the building to this day.” He explained.

David and Margaret blinked and gaped in astonishment at the life history they were sitting in, getting to experience.

“Time passed and this section became a restaurant, a cover up for the secret room in the back when cops started snooping around just because they wanted to. It then became really popular among famous jazz musicians and Black Hollywood elites of that time, and it never really lost its touch. The shtick of the exclusive word of mouth thing was something that rich people enjoyed.” He explained, his bright eyes drifting between the two as he told them the run down. “Traction didn’t start becoming what it was with reservations and stuff until Lady Stella showed up.” He said, not missing the way David’s eyes seemed to glint at the sound of the woman’s name.

“She was getting major attention for not only her voice. I, on the other hand, started out working here as a creek receptionist, but I’ve been a loyal customer from the beginning. My parents took me to Lullaby’s all the time growing up, that’s why when business stated getting more than serious around here with how money Stella was bringing in, I was allowed to take over to help the elderly owners run things smoothly. And that’s essentially how Smoke and Satin became what it was today, though I would owe majority of my thanks and graduations to Stella for that.”

Margaret and David listened as Pierre explained the history of Lullaby’s Lounge—how it was the first Black-owned housing complex in Los Angeles, how it became a refuge during the Civil Rights era, how jazz legends and Hollywood’s Black elite once filled these very booths. And how Stella, in many ways, revived the magic.

Pierre then smirked. “This place only comes to you when you need it, not when you just want it, die to his rich history. I like to call it magic sometimes.” He said.

Margaret leaned forward, her fingers lightly tracing the rim of her glass as she took in Pierre’s words. Her expression was one of quiet awe, her usual sharp demeanor softened by the weight of the history he had just unraveled. “That’s… incredible.” She murmured, glancing around the lounge as if seeing it with new eyes. “I mean, I knew this place had a vibe, but I didn’t realize it was history.” She then smirked, shaking her head slightly. “And magic? That’s a hell of a way to put it.” She glanced around the lounge, her gaze landing on the framed photographs lining the walls. “I’ll admit, though… this place does feel different.”

David, meanwhile, sat back in his chair, absorbing it all in his own way. His gaze drifted across the room—from the framed black-and-white photographs on the walls to the way the candlelight flickered against the mahogany wood. He exhaled, a slow, measured breath, through his nose, drumming his fingers against the table. “So, what—you think certain people just end up here for a reason?” His tone was casual, but there was something thoughtful beneath it. He doubted he believed the useless tale for even a second, but why did he wait for a reasonable response from the man. Why did he sound curious?

Pierre leaned back in his chair, nodding once. “Something like that. People don’t just stumble into Lullaby’s Lounge. They find it when they need it, even if they don’t realize it.” He gestured around. “That history, that energy? It sticks. And somehow, it knows when to pull the right folks in.”

Margaret studied Pierre for a moment before shrugging. “I don’t know if I buy all that, but I do know I don’t wanna leave anytime soon.” She took another sip of her drink, looking satisfied.

David chuckled, shaking his head as he pushed his chair back. “Well, I guess we’ll see if I start feeling enlightened after a bathroom break.”

Pierre smirked knowingly. “You might.”

David shot him a look but didn’t press. Instead, he stood, rolling his shoulders before heading toward the back of the lounge, weaving through the tables as the warm hum of conversation and music followed him.

David exited the lavatory shortly after entering and a good wash to his hands, but he wasn’t quite ready to return to the table yet. Do instead, he made his way to the long, mahogany bar that lined the far wall, lining up with the same bar in the upper lounge, the bars connecting with a small set of store and separated by a tiny wooden door that stopped at hip height. His trudge over to the bar with the lit counter top was slow, his hand in his pockets as he contemplated what drink to order next, and questing if he should get food.

And that’s when he saw her. The ethereal being from the stage.

Stella.

Up close, she was even more stunning. The slights sheen of sweat on her collarbones from dancing under that beaming light, the slight smudging of her mauve lipstick—signs of a woman who had just poured her soul into a performance. She leaned against the bar, stirring her drink absentmindedly.

David wasn’t one to freeze up, so before he could even think about he it, he was at the bar standing next to her as he ordered his own drink. He did a double take the at same ginger man, Hughy, behind the bar, mixing up drinks. Hughy glanced up at him with a small smile and an arched brow, waiting for his order. “A Black Orchid, please.” He stated—a rare, moody cocktail with an air of mystery, much like the man himself. The choice catching Stella’s attention just enough for her to glance over.

Hughy brows raised in surprise before he finished the drink he was making for a man at the other end of the bar and began to work on David’s. Hughy’s eyes then drifted to the singing woman who glanced over at David, a small smirk drifting upon his features.

The drink arrives in a sleek coupe glass, its deep, inky purple hue shimmering under the low bar lights. A single black orchid petal floats delicately on the surface, almost too perfect to disturb. The scent carries hints of dark berries, aged rum, and the faintest trace of smokiness, intriguing yet smooth. He was quite surprised they even had the drink, not many places did.

Stella, perched gracefully at the bar with her own drink in front of her, watches as he lifts the glass to his lips, ones she couldn’t help notice the plumpness of. Her curiosity is piqued not only by the drink, but as well as the handsome man’s next to her. .

“That’s not on the menu.” She remarks, voice low and velvety as she looked over at him, her head rested on her arms lazily, giving her this sultry look as she gazed at him.

David softly grinned, taking a slow sip as he looked over at her. “It didn’t have to be. I hear you can order anything at this bar.” He said with a simple shrug. Stella nodded at that with a subtle hum that he could barely hear over the music and chatter that filled the vibrant atmosphere, causing him to lean closer subconsciously. “So, this is your first time here?” She asked. David, who was now closer to her just nodded, looking her in the eye. Stella blinked as she looked into his eyes, his taller frame making her catch the candle lights flickering in his eyes.

She then tilts her head with a small and curious smile, amused. “So what’s in it?” She asked, softly jutting her head to the drink. David blinks from their small staring trance, looking down at the drink and sailing the skinny black stew lightly, the ice shifting against the glass. “Dark rum, blackcurrant liqueur, a little vanilla, and just enough mezcal to keep it interesting.” He leans slightly toward her, his voice dropping just enough. “Not too sweet. Not too bitter. Just…balanced.” He said, looking her back in the eye.

Stella watches him for a moment, her own smirk forming. “Profound taste, monsieur.” She said, giving the man a small clap. David’s brow twitched at the familiar word he’s been called all night, causing his eyes to glance up at the bartender, who was now gone and replaced by a woman. His eyes furrowed slightly at the disappearing act the ginger man kept pulling, but didn’t dwell on it due to the fact that he was speaking to someone. “You speak French?” He asked, looking back down at Stella, noticing her perfect accent when she said the word.

“No, not if you want to count the required class I took in college.” She said with a small smile, this one far more genuine and amused as she watched David laugh a little her her. “But fancy people like you usually love it when someone else pulls out another language. It’s good for business.” She said with a small shrug.

“Well, no business on my side, because I am far from fancy.” He said before bringing his glass up to take another sip. Stella arched a perfectly shaped brow at him, causing him to shrug a little. “I try.” He added, causing the woman to smile with a nod, now agreeing with him.

He waited a beat before speaking, watching as she never once sipped from her own drink, just slinking the beverage around as its ice melted in the ball round glass. “That was… unreal.” He said softly, causing her to look back up at him. She blinked with a glint of confusion. “Your performance.” He stated. “It was really good.”

Her smile turned soft as looked at him, but he could see something unreadable. “Thank you.” She said softly.

David leaned against the counter, tilting his glass slightly. “Most people hear a song. And even though those are basic classics, I felt those. It was like hearing it for the first time all over again.” He explained before taking another sip of the drink that was starting to make him buzz some.

His compliment made her smirk over at him. “Ah, are you a musician?” She asked.

“Something like that.” He shrugged as he swirled the dark liquid in his glass. “You’ve got crazy control. The way you flipped those transitions—seamless. And your band? Tight as hell. You got them playing behind you like it’s second nature.” He began again. And now, Stella looked at him. Really looked at him.

Most people gave her the same rehearsed compliments—“Your voice is amazing,” or “You’re so talented.” But him… he paid attention. He listened.

She finally took a sip of her drink, mainly out of pure nerves of being under his intense gaze and heavy compliments, her eyes lingering on him for a moment longer. “Sounds like you know your stuff.”

David chuckled. “Gotta know what you’re talking about when you’re in the game.”

That piqued her interest. “So you are a musician.”

He smirked but didn’t answer right away. Instead, he raised his glass in a small toast. “To real music.”

Stella watched him for another second before clinking her glass against his. “To real music.”And just like that, the air between them shifted. It had already been thick, humming with something unspoken, but now? It was stronger. More certain.

Neither of them wanted the moment to end.

But it had to.

David glanced over his shoulder toward the table where Margaret was still waiting, Pierre now missing as well, which was understandable since he was the manager. With a slow exhale, he straightened up, setting his glass down on the bar.

“I should probably get going.” He said, though he didn’t move right away and his voice didn’t sound too convincing to either of them. Stella blinked out of the trance the handsome man had put her in, nodding at his words but there was something reluctant in the way she did it. “Yeah.” She said softly, just now realizing that his close proximity had her entrenched within his dark amber and smoked vanilla scent.

Neither of them moved.

For a moment, it felt like the whole lounge had quieted, as if the world had carved out a small space just for them, just for this moment as they started at one another, trying to end the night.

Finally, David forced himself to step back. “Guess I’ll see you around, Stella.”

She blinked, realizing then—she didn’t know his name. “Guess so.” She said softly. And before she could ask, he had already turned, disappearing into the dim light of the lounge.

And as he walked back toward his table, the strangest thing hit him. Margaret was still waiting. The woman he was in a situation-ship with, the woman he had come here with.

And yet… he couldn’t bring himself to feel guilty of the time he waisted with another woman.

Not at all.

@gwenda-fav @neighbourscat @saturnville @nayaesworld @planetblaque @becauseimswagman1 @theclownmimi @vile-harlot @notapradagurl7 @saltburnsworld @imsohappyilovekpop @jazzycool30

@kaylaahisthebestest- @mccteez @officialthrad @irishmanwhore

[jazziejax]

𝐀𝐧𝐝 𝐒𝐨𝐟𝐭 𝐌𝐨𝐫𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐬

𝐏𝐚𝐢𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐬 - Kelvin Harrison Jr. x Black!Reader

𝐒𝐮𝐦𝐦𝐚𝐫𝐲 - The morning after their cozy night together, she and Kelvin spend their morning in a routine that feels all too familiar. But they cant say that they didn't enjoy every moment they spent together.

𝐖𝐚𝐫𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐬 - fluff, cute ex's, third person, slight mentions of physical descriptions, whole lot of banter that might be a little confusing, I sort of lost the plot a little here.

𝐉𝐚𝐳𝐳𝐢𝐞’𝐬 𝐍𝐨𝐭𝐞𝐬 - This is a little shorter than I wanted it to be but I sort of had a block and how far I wanted this to go. This is an ‘xreader’ blurb but this story also ties along with another one I’m making and sort of hinting at within these chapters. So, prepare for more but also…give me time. UNEDITED, SORRY FOR ANY SPELLING ERRORS! Also, be prepared for this series to follow Aaron Pierre as well.

𝐖𝐨𝐫𝐝 𝐂𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐭- 4,543+

The sound of camera clicks and flashes were loud as it filled the Hollywood street. Piles upon piles of photographers yelled at the people on the carpet, snapping directions at them while angling their cameras at the celebs that walked down the red Vanity Fair carpet.

“This way! To your right, tune to your right!”

“Let’s see the back of the dress!”

“This way, please!”

She turned every which way, smiling and posing for the cameras that be. Her sheer black dress with black rhinestones scattered around and dangling from the fabric, shined within the artificial light of the night. She had just turned around from the show the backless dress, showing off the fabric that hung low on her hips. So low that her dermal piercings were on display, the small diamonds sticking out of her the dimples she had just before her back met her plump bottom.

The cameras went into a flashing frenzy at the sight of her back, her large voluminous curls and her smooth skin pulling the look all together.

After turning back around, she began strategically stepping to the side, keeping her front in view of the camera so they didn’t catch her at any weird angles as she moved down the carpet. Just as she made it to the last stop before exciting, she heard the call of on of the photographers.

“What about your award?! No pictures?!” The guy shouted. The woman just offered an innocent shrug before letting out a small laugh and waving him off. “It’s not on me.” She called back, although not as loud as he did, not caring for her words to be heard, she just didn’t want to be rude and leave his question open ended. She went back to posing for the cameras again, just in time to feel a warm hand creep its way onto her bare back, mere seconds before she felt the warm and familiar body to her left surround her.

Her face instantly broke into a large grin, looking over at the man in the sleek and classic all black suit. His grin matched hers, his eyes looking around her face before falling onto her mauve lips that lured him in. His arm was tight around her waist, pulling her in closer to him. Their lips met in a quick but passionate kiss, the cameras flicking to catch the way his large hand laid directly over her back dimples while one of hers placed itself on his jaw. They pulled apart, looking each other in the eye for half a second before diving back in for another, ignoring the loud journalists.

She broke the kiss first, quitting her fight to stop a grin from appearing on her lips. Kelvin bit his plump bottom lip at the sight of her, giving her a quick once over with his low eyes before holding his free hand out. “I think this one’s for you.” He said. She looked down, just now paying attention to the two golden statues he held in one hand this whole time, his fingers wrapped oddly around the body’s of the naked statue.

“Why, thank you.” She said, taking the respective award from hand, her grin never faltering. She then looked back up at him, her eyes filled with adoration as she gazed at the dreamy man next to her. “But I already have my favorite award right next to me.” She said softly.

Kelvin’s admiring look turned to one of mock disgust, even thought he couldn’t fight the slight blush and the amused grin he still held. “Oh, girl, you’re cheesy.” He quipped.

“But you love me though, right? So it doesn’t matter?”

“Of course I love you. Till the damn wheels fall off, you know that.” He said firmly. “Now, hold that Oscar up and show off that ring I put on your finger, so we can head inside and see what food they have and then get the hell up out of here.” He said, not taking his eyes off her once.

“Okay.” She grinned, tilting her head to the side as she looked up at him, softly fluttering her eyes-lashes. “You know it’s whatever you say.” She stated coyly before she turned back to face the cameras, giving her best smile with her award in her right hand, her other placed upon Kelvin’s back.

He let in a sharp breath through his teeth at her words, his hand around her hip tightening its grasp. “Ohh, I know that’s right.” He groaned out, smiling for the crazed cameras as the pair showed off their awards and posed like the happy couple they were. And she did what she was told, her hand wrapped around the Oscar and showing off the rock she had on her finger, knowing it would create buzz on the internet for weeks to come.

Everything then shifted, moving by in this quick blur of motion. As if life was passing on right before her eyes.

She didn’t question anything before she found herself in sitting in the grass. It was slightly damp under her weight, mainly because she was sitting sort of close to the water. A large lake spreader before her, glistening beautifully in the setting sun. The sky was a pretty pink, though clouds were scarce and that was her favorite thing to look at. But the sight was still delightful nonetheless.

Her gaze was trained on two swans on the lake before her. She’d been watching them for a while now, the pair doing their dance across the water, leaving ripples in their wake. She could hear the faint sound of laughter in the background, making her heart weigh full at the giggles.

She turned her head at the sound of a familiar laugh, it was rich and deep. The honey-layered tone reverberated through her mind like an echo. It was a sound she found comfort in, a sound she never wanted to forget. The sound played through her mind in her darkest moments, and she could practically see the large smile that was etched onto his face. The one she thought about turning to see whenever she lived in her highs.

So she looked over her shoulder, looking for the sound that pulled on her heartstrings. She could see she was now in the backyard of a large but exceptionally decorated home, with tons of family members walking about and enjoying themselves as they mingled. Her parents were sitting at a table with other adults around their age, screaming over a game of spades since the par was losing. She caught a glimpse of her eldest sister and her teenage niece, the woman rubbing the red lipstick off her lips as she reprimanded her for wearing such a risqué color at her age. Her cousin and family friends ran around as they played football and fetch with a dog. She even saw Nala sitting at the pool, her white pant legs rolled up as she kicked her feet around in the water. The brown-skinned woman held a hand above her sunglasses, blocking out the sun as she pointed and spoke to the man who stood behind the grill. Aaron just nodded at whatever she said, one hand handling the meat on the grill while the other held a small boy in his arms.

She could still hear the sound of the rich laughter, although it was now in chorus with another one, the giggle small but full of love and happiness. Before she could try to locate the joyous sound of her own, a call caught her attention.

"Momma!" Called from the other side of her.

Her head instinctively snapped over, catching sight of another small child who was no older than two. An adorable brown-skinned girl dressed in a little dress. Her cute brown coils were scattered all over her head. Her baby-smooth skin shone in the sun as she waved in her direction, clumsily waddling away from the man who stood behind her. She briefly squinted her eyes, tilting her head at the baby.

"Momma! Come play!" The little girl yelled, looking directly at her. The woman tilted her head again, still gazing at the beautiful little bundle. Before she could speak, the man behind the baby reached down, bringing the girl into his arms, tickling her sides a little on her way up. The baby giggled, showing her two teeth as she squirmed in the man's arm. He tossed her up, her giggles sounding throughout the yard, the only thing the woman could hear over the sound of everything else.

Once the baby girl was let down from her fun times in the air, she could now see the face of the man who held her. Kelvin's grin was large, smiling at his daughter, who tucked herself into his shoulder. His grin faded only slightly, now looking at her as well with nothing but pure love in his eyes. His smile softened in a way that made her chest tighten. "Come on. Don’t keep our baby girl waiting." He teased, holding his hand out towards her.

Her breath caught itself in her throat, her eyes jumping between the two pairs that stared at her. She blinked again and again, waiting for the sight of them to vanish. Kelvin, who still held his hand out in her direction from afar, raised his brows at her. "Come on now, baby. Me and the princess ain't got all day." He smirked, showing the perfect teeth she oddly held a lot of love for. "The fireworks are gonna start soon and you know neither of y'all can handle the noise." He stated as he used the arm he held the baby with to give her a small bounce.

Her laugh came out as breathy, heart's content at the family she created. She ran toward them, her white sundress flowing around her legs. She scooped their daughter into her arms from Kelvin's and placed an enormous kiss on her cheek, earning another burst of giggles. Kelvin beamed at the sight of them before bringing them both into her arms.

────୨ৎ────

She had woken up with that feeling of completeness still lingering in her chest—until she opened her eyes to find Kelvin kissing her awake in real life.

She stirred awake, a soft smile curving her lips as remnants of her dream lingered in her mind. She thought after such a dream, she would wake up in a cold sweat, terrified that her subconscious could even envision such a thing. She thought she'd be freaking out over the fact that, deep down, she'd never gotten over Kelvin. Who was her ex. Her ex that she just slept with, again.

But she knew it wasn't that simple. After years of grappling with...whatever she felt for Kelvin and how complicated those feelings were, this aching thought at the back of her mind was always there to remind her that she'd never forget him. That he would always be the one to lurk in her every thought.

And that dream only proved that. She could toss the dream up to the medication and her brain being induced with her little spout of illness. But then she'd just be lying to herself, knowing that even if their love never rekindled, she'd always think of the man who brought her in and showed her love that she'd never felt before.

The dream felt so vivid, so perfect, that waking up almost felt bittersweet. Her smile deepened when she realized why she was awake. She was lying on her back now, the feeling of his upper body on top of hers. Kelvin was peppering her face with light, tickling kisses. His lips brushed against her forehead, her cheeks, the tip of her nose, and even her chin.

"Good morning, gorgeous." He murmured once she began stirring awake. He then began softly placing his kisses on her lips. His tone was warm, teasing, and completely disarming.

She let out a small giggle, her voice deep with sleepiness. "I'm sick and you're all up in my mouth, boy." She said, moving her hand up to push his face away from hers. her palm mashing itself into his nose. Kelvin let out an uncomfortable sound at the pressure of her hand, moving his head to shake off her grip. "Girl, you could be dead and I'd still be all up on that." He said before bringing his face closer to hers, his hands traveling down the side of her body, his grip tight on whatever he could hold on to.

They both paused at the same time after what he said, Kelvin lifting his face from her soft chest to see her giving him an arched brow.

"It sounded...better and cuter in my head," Kelvin mumbled.

"Yeah, I bet." She said disinterestedly.

"More romantic even, you know. Instead of fucking creepy."

"Yeah, you said that." She said, giving him a coy look. Kelvin turned his lip up at her, the pair just staring each other in the eye. He then suddenly jumped to start peppering kisses on her face, causing the girl to let out a small yelp and began squirming under the onslaught of affection. "Kelvin! What are you doing?"

"Making sure you wake up knowing how much I love that pretty face of yours, girl!" He said, his grin lighting up the room. He leaned back just slightly, his dark eyes studying her as if she were some masterpiece, like her face wasn't dry from just waking up, sick, and not doing her skincare last night. "You were smiling in your sleep, you know?" He stated before a large smirk made its way onto her face. "Were you dreaming of me?" He grinned slyly at her. She raised her brows at him, opening her mouth to speak but was cut off. "Oh, you don't have to tell me, darling, I already know. You can't resist me even if you tried." He bragged in his fake British accent. She just gave him a plain look, her lips pursed into an odd grin. It was silent between them for a moment, Kelvin's grin still apparent while she just started at him.

"It's too damn early for so many jokes, Kel. I'm getting overstimulated."

"It's 9:30am."

"Right, too damn early." She said, letting out a chortle before beginning to rise from the bed. Kelvin grinned, giving her cheek a quick peck before rising from the bed as well. "I ran you a bath." He stated, causing the woman in nothing but her underwear and her shirt to look over at him. "What?" She asked, blinking at what she thought she heard.

"I ran you a bath while you were sleeping." He said as he began to make his way around the bed, easing up on her in nothing but his underwear. He placed his hands on her waist, moving them under her shirt to rub them against her skin. "That's when I walked in and saw you all smiley. I just knew that you knew I ran you a nice bath." He said, causing the pair to both chuckle at his joke.

"Well thank you, baby." She said, stepping closer to him, her arms wrapping around his waist. She looked up at him through her lashes. "You're so good to me, Kel." She said with a small pout. He hummed at her words, stepping closer as his hands drifted down to the place he loved most, her ass. "Oh, don't I know it, baby girl." He said, his hands tightening around her cheeks, gripping the fat. "And I can show you how good I really am but this bath water's getting cold soon and we need to get to set. You know I hate a lukewarm bath." He stated before leaning down and pressing a kiss onto her lips. She hummed into the kiss, loving the feeling of Klevin's plump lips on hers. The kiss wasn't continuous, the pair pulling apart to only bring their lips back in seconds later. The pecks were steady, building up to something more.

She hummed into his mouth, pulling back to look up at him. "You hate a lukewarm bath?" She questioned. "What does my bath have to do with you?" Her question caused Kelvin to turn his lip at her, giving her that playfully annoyed look that she loved, looking effortlessly sexy. "You thought I ran that bath just for you?"

"You're getting in?" She quickly asked, her eyes subconsciously widening as she looked up at him.

"I've seen you naked before." Kelvin stated, giving her hips a reassuring squeeze once he saw the slight fear in her eyes. She gulped, her eyes moving from his face as she placed her hands on his chest, playing with the hairs that laid there. “Yeah, but that’s different.”

“Different how?”

“Different because…I don't know.” She mumbled.

"So you don't want me to bathe with you?" He asked, pulling back some to angle his head downward, trying to look into her eyes which were locked on his chest. His brows twitched in slight worry at her sudden shift of attitude, not wanting to make her uncomfortable with his advances.

She was quick to interject, wrapping her arms back around his torso and looking up into his eyes. "No, I didn't say that now, " She said, letting out a slightly nervous laugh. She was still feeling the effects of her dream weighing heavy on her mind, which had her mind racing every time she looked him in his eyes. His voice resounded like a steel drum as she thought over all she remembered from her desperately romantic subconscious. And his hands rubbing against her skin didn't help either, setting her heart ablaze.

Kelvin chuckled at her eagerness. "Okay, it's too damn early for you to be confusing me like this and the water is gonna get cold." He stated before turning with the woman in his grasp, leading her backward out of the door. She giggled, looking up at him as he led the pair all the way to the bathroom, putting all her trust in him that he wouldn't bump against a wall with her.

It didn't take them long before they were both in the bath, her bare back against his chest as they let the warm water soothe their muscles as bubbles floated around them. Kelvin had his arms draped around her waist, his fingers subconsciously rubbing against the soft pudge of her belly, his chin resting on her shoulder. They chatted about their usual topics, movies, other actors and just being plain out messy together. They were currently speaking on an old project of theirs, where they were just becoming acquainted and dealing with this oddly jealous set attending on set.

She always had this dd animosity towards her while Kelvin seemed to be her favorite person on earth. Before the pair of ex's even became friends, it was like she was lurking around every project the other was on. She was a friend of theirs for a while before shit hit the fan and they ultimately dropped her.

"You know I hate that bitch!" She said, her hand splashing in the water as she waved her finger. "And you always bring her up. Do you have something you want to tell me?" She asked him, turning her head to squint her eyes at him while Kelvin just chuckled. He just arched a brow at her with a lazy shrug, causing her face to become more serious as she crossed her arms over her naked chest and turned her torso to him more. "Excuse me?!" She asked.

Kelvin was quick to reiterate, tightening his arms around her waist to pull her back in. "No, no. It's not even like that." He said with a small laugh, pulling her in close. "I just bring that story up because I like the way you react."

"Pissed off and agitated?"

"No." Kelvin dragged out with a grin. "Jealous and agitated."

She smacked her lips at his words, turning her back to him while he began to press kisses against her wet shoulder. "Jealous and agitated? Is that what turns you on?"

"You in general turns me on." He stated with no hesitation. "But something about the way you get all possessive is sexy. Especially about me, it boots my ego." He smirked, looking down at the way she playfully rolled her eyes at him.

"You got issues, Kel." She said as she leaned her full weight into him, raising one of her legs out of the water to analyze her skin. Kelvin hummed against her skin. "And you love me and all my issues." He shrugged, one of his arms around her waist unlatching to place his hand over hers, swallowing it. He rubbed his fingers against her leg, watching as the soap suds slid down her body.

"Whatever Kelvin." She said. '"Speaking of issues, should I shave my legs?" She asked, moving the limb from side to side as she analyzed her leg hair in the dim lighting of the bathroom. Kelvin furrowed his brows at her. "Who are you shaving your legs for?" He asked sharply. She leaned her head back, looking up at him. "I need a reason to shave my legs?"

"You don't usually shave your legs for me."

"And how would you know that? I barely shave my legs as is. My leg hair is very fine."

"I've spent... a lot of time down there since we've known one another." He stated slyly, immediately being met with a soft elbow to his ribs as they both laughed.

"Now if you're gonna shave those legs, you better decide now because this water is getting cold and we gotta get to set." He said. She gasped at his words, quickly turning her head to look back at him. "I totally forgot that we had to go to set today! Damnit, should I have called in sick?" She asked him worriedly, her big eyes jumping between his.

"Do you still feel unwell?"

She paused, softly biting on her lip as she thought it over. She did feel better. Her headache was sort of mild, and mainly only there since she wasn't wearing her contacts. Her stuffed nose bridge was clear, making her able to breathe in the jasmine-scented bath. And the scratch at the back of her throat was no longer there.

"Well no." She mumbled. Kelvin nodded at that, his eyes analyzing her face. "Okay then. We're going to work." He grinned. "Together."

His words caused her to break out into a small smile, her teeth peeking between her lips at him, catching his attention. "Okay." She said softly before suddenly spinning around in the tub so she was now facing him. Kelvin arched a brow at her as she raised her leg again, placing her foot against his chest. Kelvin grinned, reaching up to grab a hold of her foot, rubbing his thumb into her arches as she leaned back against the other side of the tub.

"Shave my legs." She said. His brows raised again, looking at her in slight shock. "What?" He asked.

"Shave my legs." She said again. "If you think you're gonna be feeling all up on these legs, you best contribute, okay?" She quipped with a large grin. Kelvin laughed, his hands running all up and down her legs. "Okay, okay. I can do that." He said with a nod, biting his lips as his hands went lower and lower on her leg. She raised her brows at him, letting out a schoolgirl-type giggle at his running fingers. Kelvin laughed, looking her in the eye. "What, you thought a lil hair was gone scare me away? Girl you know I do this for real." He smirked. She cocked a brow at him, easing her leg away. "You've been shaving some other girl's legs?"

"No, I just know how to shave, period." He stated. "Now give me that damn leg." He said as he grabbed ahold of her leg and dragged her closer, causing her to let out a yelp of a laugh. And as they spent more than enough time in the bath, her mind kept drifting to her dream and how she could only hope that it would someday come true.

A little while later, She was in comfy clothes. After their soak, Kelvin ordered a breakfast spread to her doorstep, complete with fresh fruit, French toast, and her favorite coffee. They ate together, laughing about their plans for the day and sneaking bites from each other’s plates.

When it was time to go to set, they moved seamlessly together—Kelvin helping zip up her coat from the cold Atlanta winter and wrapping a loose scarf around her head. "Don't want to have you sick again. Because then I'm going to have to come back over and nurse you back to health." He smirked, looking down at her.

She smirked, rolling her eyes at him. "Boy, please."

"What? Don't pretend like I didn't come over here and work my magic on you, girl." He said before quickly bending down and offering her a quick peck on the lips. She scoffed, although she couldn't help the large smile she held on her face as they continued back and forth.

"And what magic was that exactly?" She asked, crossing her arms as she stood by her door, watching as he prepared himself with the clothes he had in his bag from last night, which made her raise a brow at how prepared he actually was when he came over.

He looked at her as he shrugged on his coat. "You know what magic, now." He smirked. "I gave you that act right." He said after buttoning his coat up. She rolled her eyes at him, her tongue poking at her cheek. "And now look at you, acting right. Feeling right, same thing." He said.

She only rolled her eyes at him again. She took a small over to him, grabbing a hold of the front of his coat. "Well, I'm just gonna tell you this now." She began, looking up at him, her eyes jumping between his eyes and lips, glasses of her dream still lingering in her mind. "We better get up out of this apartment so we can go to work before I have you work that magic on me some more." She stated, her voice low and sultry as she leaned closer and closer to his him.

"Oh yeah?" He smirked.

"Yeah." She whispered, her nose brushing against his. "I'm starting to feel a little under the weather by the second, Dr.Harrison." She said. Kelvin hummed, leaning forward. "I got the perfect remedy for that, don't you worry." He said before placing his lips on hers. She smiled against his lips before pulling back, knowing she could get caught up in his charm. "Mnhmn, we gotta go." She said as she pulled away and began to step out of the door. Kelvin let out a small groan, picking up both of their bags as she headed out of the door. "You can't rile someone up like that before leaving. That's torture."

"Get used to it and lock my door boy." She said, looking back at him with all their things in his hands, pulling out his keys to lock her door. She couldn’t fight the find grin she had, that same domestic feeling from her dreams spreading through her heart. Even though as long as she’d known him, and she felt as though she’d always had that feeling for him, now it was different. Now it felt like everything was meant to be. That there was this plan to look forward to.

And now, things weren’t exactly clear between them and where their situation-ship stood, but it felt right in the moment and she didn’t want to ruin that by telling him her dream. So she kept it to herself, living on the cloud of what that feeling brought her.

@gwenda-fav @neighbourscat @saturnville @nayaesworld @planetblaque @becauseimswagman1

[jazziejax]

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ 𝐀𝐚𝐫𝐨𝐧 𝐏𝐢𝐞𝐫𝐫𝐞.ᐟ.ᐟ

.ᐟ.ᐟ𝐃𝐞𝐯-𝐄𝐦 | 𝐌𝐲 𝐒𝐨𝐮𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐧 𝐃𝐞𝐥𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐭…

𝐂𝐡𝐚𝐩𝐭𝐞𝐫 𝐎𝐧𝐞. 𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐂𝐫𝐚𝐬𝐡 | ★ ★ ★

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𝐂𝐡𝐚𝐩𝐭𝐞𝐫 𝐅𝐨𝐮𝐫. | coming soon…

.ᐟ.ᐟ 𝐓𝐞𝐫𝐫𝐲 𝐑𝐢𝐜𝐡𝐦𝐨𝐧𝐝…

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𝐂𝐨𝐳𝐲 𝐍𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐭𝐬… | ★ ★

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𝐏𝐫𝐚𝐝𝐚 𝐃𝐚𝐫𝐥𝐢𝐧’ | 𝐊𝐞𝐥𝐯𝐢𝐧 𝐇𝐚𝐫𝐫𝐢𝐬𝐨𝐧 𝐉𝐫. & 𝐃𝐚𝐦𝐬𝐨𝐧 𝐈𝐝𝐫𝐢𝐬 | ★ ★

.ᐟ.ᐟ 𝐃𝐚𝐯𝐢𝐝 𝐂𝐥𝐢𝐟𝐟…

𝐒𝐦𝐨𝐤𝐞 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐒𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧…| ★ ★ ★ ★

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ 𝐊𝐞𝐥𝐯𝐢𝐧 & 𝐀𝐚𝐫𝐨𝐧 .ᐟ.ᐟ

.ᐟ.ᐟ 𝐁𝐚𝐝 𝐁𝐨𝐲𝐬 𝐀𝐔

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.ᐟ.ᐟ 𝐊𝐚𝐝𝐞𝐞𝐦 ‘𝐔𝐧𝐢���𝐮𝐞’ 𝐌𝐚𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐬 | 𝐑𝐚𝐢𝐬𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐊𝐚𝐧𝐚𝐧

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𝐂𝐡𝐚𝐩𝐭𝐞𝐫 𝐓𝐡𝐫𝐞𝐞. 𝐈𝐬 𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐢𝐭? | coming soon…

𝐂𝐡𝐚𝐩𝐭𝐞𝐫 𝐅𝐨𝐮𝐫. 𝐒𝐡𝐢𝐭! | coming soon…

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ 𝐃𝐚𝐦𝐬𝐨𝐧 𝐈𝐝𝐫𝐢𝐬 .ᐟ.ᐟ

.ᐟ.ᐟ 𝐃𝐚𝐦𝐬𝐨𝐧 𝐈𝐝𝐫𝐢𝐬 | 𝐎𝐧𝐞 𝐒𝐡𝐨𝐭𝐬…

𝐏𝐫𝐚𝐝𝐚 𝐃𝐚𝐫𝐥𝐢𝐧’ | 𝐃𝐚𝐦𝐬𝐨𝐧 𝐈𝐝𝐫𝐢𝐬 & 𝐊𝐞𝐥𝐯𝐢𝐧 𝐇𝐚𝐫𝐫𝐢𝐬𝐨𝐧 𝐉𝐫. | ★ ★

𝐑𝐚𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐫 𝐒𝐥𝐲…| 𝐅𝟏.ᐟ𝐃𝐚𝐦𝐬𝐨𝐧 𝐈𝐝𝐫𝐢𝐬

.ᐟ.ᐟ𝐅𝐫𝐚𝐧𝐤𝐥𝐢𝐧 𝐒𝐢𝐚𝐧𝐭…

𝐑𝐚𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐫 𝐂𝐨𝐦𝐩𝐥𝐢𝐜𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐝 | ★

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ 𝐑𝐉 𝐂𝐲𝐥𝐞𝐫 .ᐟ.ᐟ

.ᐟ.ᐟ 𝐋𝐚𝐦𝐨𝐧𝐭 𝐃𝐢𝐠𝐠𝐬 | 𝐑𝐚𝐩 𝐒𝐡𝐢𝐭 𝐇𝐁𝐎

𝐂𝐡𝐚𝐩𝐭𝐞𝐫 𝐎𝐧𝐞. 𝐒𝐨𝐦𝐞𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐂𝐮𝐭𝐞 | ★ ★

𝐂𝐡𝐚𝐩𝐭𝐞𝐫 𝐓𝐰𝐨. 𝐒𝐨𝐦𝐞𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐍𝐞𝐰 | ★ ★ ★ ★

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ 𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐇𝐚𝐫𝐝𝐞𝐫 𝐓𝐡𝐞𝐲 𝐅𝐚𝐥𝐥 .ᐟ.ᐟ

𝐂𝐡𝐚𝐩𝐭𝐞𝐫 𝐎𝐧𝐞. 𝐌𝐲 𝐒𝐰𝐞𝐞𝐭 𝐑𝐞𝐜𝐤𝐨𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠 | ★ ★ ★ ★

𝐂𝐡𝐚𝐩𝐭𝐞𝐫 𝐓𝐰𝐨. coming soon…

[jazziejax]

𝐈𝐧𝐯𝐢𝐬𝐢𝐛𝐥𝐞 𝐒𝐭𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐠

𝐏𝐚𝐢𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐬 - Kelvin Harrison Jr. x Black!OC, Aaron Pierre x Black!OC

𝐒𝐮𝐦𝐦𝐚𝐫𝐲 - In which the invisible string finally tightens, bringing some back together for reuniting and others close to form a bond that’ll last a life time.

𝐖𝐚𝐫𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐬 - cursing/swearing, mentions of a break up??, idk fr….

𝐉𝐚𝐳𝐳𝐢𝐞’𝐬 𝐍𝐨𝐭𝐞𝐬 - This is actually the beginning of my ‘Cozy Nights and Soft Mornings’ universe. This and following chapters will be giving the backstory and other storylines to the couples. Yes, I made a lion OC so this all could make sense. Yes, I know yall are tried of seeing OC stories. And NO, you don’t have to use the pictures of the OC’s I picked, when it comes to description, I really only do skin color and outfit, I could care less about what they actually look like beyond that. I got bored and the Bad Boys AU so taking too long to get to the good stuff and I have an essay due at 11:59 that I haven’t started on. Sorry for any grammar issues and spelling errors!

𝐖𝐨𝐫𝐝 𝐂𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐭 - 3,163+

| 𝐀𝐭𝐥𝐚𝐧𝐭𝐚, 𝐆𝐞𝐨𝐫𝐠𝐢𝐚 | 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟐 |

“AHHHHHHHHHHHH!” Was the only sound that could be heard in the separate apartments of the two women. The lighter-skinned woman was jumping up and down in her bed, screaming into the phone in her hands. She could barely hear the other woman over the phone, who was excitedly stomping her feet as she sat on her couch, her laptop a few feet away from her.

“Oh my gosh, this is so insane!” She shouted as she plopped down in her bed, and she was shocked the old thing didn’t collapse under her weight. Her sudden fall caused her slightly loose bonnet to slide down her face, the girl pushing it up as she laid down on her bed out of breath. “I can’t believe this.” She sighed, her chest steadily rising and falling in her loose top. The sun was peaking through her bedroom window, the glass pulled up to let in the wind from the outside. She could feel the heat from the sun on her bare legs as she listened to the giddy girl on the other side of the phone.

“I can’t believe this either!” Nala cheered into her phone with a large smile on her face. “I don’t want to speak too soon but shits really starting to look up for us, Eve.” She said as she moved to angle herself back to her laptop, looking at the confirmation email the pair got. Evette sighed again, her gaze focused on the loud ceiling fan above her. Her mouth was open as she tried to find words to convey her whirlwind of thoughts, but it was like she was stuck in a daze as she realized what her life could become after this flashed before her eyes.

Nala cocked her head away from the phone, looking down at her screen to see the call was still connected. “Girl, hello? You there?” She asked, looking awkwardly around her own place due to the silence she was now enveloped in.

Her voice snapped Evette out of her thoughts. “Yeah. yeah, I hear you.” She said. “I’m just…shocked.” She began as she sat up from her bed again, scooting herself off the mattress to make her way out of her room. “I mean, we just booked a Disney Production.” She stated, her hand rubbing against her forehead after she opened her door, still taking in everything. “A fucking Live Action Disney movie! Together!” She shouted as the excitement all came back to her, now standing in the small division between her kitchen and her living room. “This is the second role we’ve gotten together!”

“It’s fate, Eve! I’m telling you!” Nala grinned her gaze back on her laptop, rereading through the emails of her new life. She heard Evette sigh through the speaker as she scrolled her screen. “I’m just…at a loss of words.” She sighed, her eyes skimming over the names within the casting email.

“You know, I’m proud of us,” Evette spoke up, moving over to her small living room and plopping herself down on her couch, lying her legs on the seat cushions as she relaxed into the arm of the couch. “We’ve come so far in only a couple of years. Hell, I remember when we used the share this place.” She said, letting out a small laugh as she gestured around to the small, one-bedroom Atlanta apartment, thinking of all the memories the girls shared in the space as they navigated their dreams together. “Do you think this is it? I mean, I know we haven’t necessarily made it, but…Do you think this is the start?”

“Uh, hell yeah!” Nala scoffed from the other end of the phone, momentarily taking her eyes away from the screen that was beginning to hurt her eyes from squinting at the tiny font. “I told you that things are only going up from here when I first met you on set as an extra when I needed a place to stay and you needed a roommate for rent.”

“That was, like, five years ago,” Evette mumbled, blinking at what her friend was trying to convey.

“And look at us now! I’m finally getting booked for roles and you’re busy!” She could practically hear Nala’s grin. She couldn’t help but smile again, a warm feeling spreading through her at her friend’s happiness. After so many years of hard work and grinding, Nala was finally achieving her dream, and she couldn’t be happier for the girl.

She was about to speak, acknowledging her gratitude and admiration for the major changes that her ‘industry baby’ companion was about to experience before she was cut off.

“And stop trying to get all deep and sentimental on me, you know I hate that shit,” Nala mumbled as she went back to reading the multiple emails she’d gotten. She furrowed her brows at one of the names on the list for the movie the pair would be in, while Evette continued over the phone.

“Damn, a girl can’t be proud? This is really big for you, ya know? You never forget your first real big acting gig. But no, I guess you can’t even be nice to bitches no more.” She said. She crossed her arms in her lying position, still holding the phone up to her ear.

When she received no response, she furrowed her brows, knowing that Nala would usually keep the argumentative banter going. “Hello?” She said, only to be met with silence. She pulled the phone from her ear, looking down to see the call was no longer connected and she’d just been talking to the air, her home screen pressed against her ear.

“This bitch.” She mumbled to herself, just when her front door burst open. She let out a small scream, quickly sitting up and looking back at her open apartment door to see said friend in her pajamas still, laptop in hand.

“What the hell?!” Evette screamed, her hand clenched around her phone in fear at the commotion Nala caused. The girl just continued to huff, coming into the apartment and closing the door behind her, as well as locking it. Evette stood up from the couch, her arms spread in confusion as she stared at the other woman in shock.

Nala waved the girl off, still trying to catch her breath from how she got here. “No girl, you’re gonna want to sit down for this.” She breathed out, stumbling her way over to the couch with her open laptop in her arms. Her words only caused Evette’s face to morph more into pure confusion, eyes squinted and brows drawn closer together as she looked at Nala.

“Nanali, what the hell are you talking about? What’s going on? Why are you barging into my house like the fucking feds?! How did you even get in here, and why are you out of breath?!” She yelled as she watched Nala come over to the couch and plop down, meshing her body into the dark green corduroy as finally shanked her breathing.

“I have a key.” She said, holding up the bundle of keys that dangled off of her middle finger and poked through one of the many rings, an assortment of charms and keys clinging together. She let her arm drop back down with a clink before adjusting herself in her seat, placing her back against the back pillows of the couch and her laptop on top of her legs. “And I barged in because it’s an emergency.”

“What could possibly be so bad that you couldn’t say over the—.”

“And I’m out of breath because I ran up here. The elevator was occupied.”

This caused Evette’s face to drop, quickly sitting on the available spot on the couch next to her. “You took the stairwell? Oh wow, it really is an emergency.” She said, her face contorting into a wince at the thought of the stairwell. That place was like ground zero for anything you could think of in an apartment complex like theirs. From persistent crackheads that tended to get violent sometimes to a spot often used by corner girls trying to make a quick buck. The drug swaps were occasional now since the place got busted a few months back.

It was especially with Nala staying on the second floor. The first two floors were considered off-limits for most of the people in the building if you didn’t indulge in anything that it offered.

Nanali nodded as she looked at her friend, pursing her lips.

“So, what is it?” Evette asked, looking at the girl. Nala nervously nipped at her bottom lip with her sharp canines as her eyes darted between the laptop screen and her waiting friend. When Evette quirked an eyebrow, Nala let out a small sigh. She scooted over, awkwardly placing her hand on the woman’s shoulder. “You know I love you right?” She said, squinting her eyes at her blonde friend next to her.

“What the hell is going on?” Evette snapped, scrunching her brows at her looked at Nanali.

“And you know that I care about you. And that we share a mutual feeling of…uncomfortability when it comes to delivering bad news.” She continued, ignoring the woman’s words as she tried to deliver the news. “So, just imagine how hard this is for me,” Nala said, a silent wince in her face. Evette groaned, bringing her hand up to rub harshly at her eyes.

“Just spit it out, Nanali, you’re giving me a damn headache.” She spat.

“Hey! I’m just trying to be considerate of feelings here because I know you feel your emotions very deeply. I don’t want you breaking my laptop or crying a damn river!” Nanali snapped back, finally breaking out of her odd therapist-esque approach that made the two of them uncomfortable.

“I’m gonna break the damn thing anyway if you don’t just spit it out!” Evette snapped back, her gaze hard as she looked at the woman next to her. The suspense of it all was killing, and not even in a metaphorical sense because her heart was still beating erratically and she’s been sitting down for almost five minutes now with no movement, plus she had a headache all of a sudden. Her mind was racing with the anticipation of whatever Nala held on that laptop and if she had some condition that’s finally peeked its way through symptom-wise due to her friends' insistent behavior.

Nanali paused, staring at her intensely as she analyzed her.

“Well, now I don’t feel comfortable giving you my laptop.”

“Give me this damn laptop!” Evette gritted through her teeth, reaching and snagging the device off of Nala’s lap before she could even think about holding it longer. Nala let out a small gasp as the laptop left her possession, watching Evette’s eyes flicker all around the screen.

“This is just the casting email. What am I supposed to be looking at?” She asked. Nanali pursed her lips as she scooted closer to her, looking at the laptop that sat on her lap. She moved her finger to the mousepad and scrolled down, before pointing at the names at the end of the email. Her eyes flicked between the one name she knew from word of mouth and the mouth she heard it from, watching her as she read the names.

Evette paused at the familiar name on the list. The name that flooded her mind with a plethora of memories, some good, some bad. A name that caused her heart to skip a beat and her breath to catch in her throat. A name that caused her stomach to flutter as she froze as if his very presence lingered in the room.

It was a name she spoke to Nanali about often, especially after having downed a few drinks and being all nostalgic. A name that sometimes made her want to tear up at the mere utterance, being flooded with all the times they had together and how much life and first-time experiences they truly got to live together. The name weighed heavy on her shoulders, forcing her to remember the very details of how they first met, and how it all ended.

It was the name of the man she didn’t like to think about, a man that she still left love for.

Aaron Pierre as ‘Mufasa’, Kelvin Harrison Jr. as ‘Taka’, Nanali Campbell as ‘Sarabi’, Evette Hampton as ‘Lela’, Blue Ivy Carter as ‘Kiara’, Beyoncé as ‘Nala’, Donald Glover as ‘Simba’.” The names carried on, listing more and more actors and the characters that they voiced. But that one name was the only one she could pay attention to. The only one that she gave a damn about, which was shocking to her because Beyoncé was on the list. She could only let out a small breath at the sight of it, blinking.

Nanali let out a sigh as well, looking solemnly at her friend. Not even thinking about it, she brought her arm around the girl's back, rubbing her hand against the arm it landed on. “Are you okay?” She asked softly, not taking her gaze off the side of Evette’s face.

The sound of her voice caused Evette to snap out of her trance, blooming away her daze but keeping her eyes on the screen. “Yeah.” She said, although her voice was low and full of uncertainty. “Yeah, I’m okay.” Nanali didn’t believe her one bit, among her head down to look into the girls' eyes. Evette still didn’t move her gaze from the laptop, her face subconsciously morphed into a slight frown. “I know this is a lot for you. Especially now.” She began. “And…I—I don’t even know where to begin to make this any better.” She mumbled near the end, more so taking to herself now. “But look on the bright side, it’s animated and nothing but voice acting. We’ll probably never even have to see them in person. Which sucks because Beyoncé’s in this movie.” She said with a small frown, beginning to ramble to herself with her arm still wrapped around the girl.

“Maybe we can see her at the premiere. Even just a glance is fine with me because I don’t know if I can handle speaking to Beyoncé.” She continued before a thought crossed her mind, causing her to let out a small gasp and cover her mouth. “But that would mean we’d also have to see the others at the premiere. And maybe even a press tour, because it is a Disney film after all, which means it might be a huge press tour. I mean, it’s The Lion King, that’s, like, the best Disney film of all time and the first one did super well.” As she continued to ramble about the movie and its preceding environment after it was all over, Evette’s head slowly turned her way, contempt written on her face as she watched Nala’s mind work over her features.

“You’re not helping.” She cut in, causing Nala to halt and look over at her.

“I mean, I did say I wasn’t going to be any help.” She shrugged, causing Evette to let out a small sigh, but couldn’t help the small grin that graced her lips. Nala cheesed, looking at her friend’s face. “Ahh! Look who’s smiling!” She said, flexing the arm she had around the woman to squeeze her. “I’m not smiling,” Evette said with a clear view of her grin. Nanali’s face dropped as she released her grip from around her but kept her arm in its place. “Don’t lie to my face, you know I’m gaslit easily.”

“No, you’re just very gullible,” Evette said as she let out a small chortle. Nala just squinted her eyes at the girl suspiciously. “And how do I know you’re not still gaslighting me, huh?” She joked, causing Evette to let out a small laugh. Nala smiled at the sight of her friend smiling. “And there’s a laugh. Could’ e been better, needs more heart, but it was aight.” She said, only getting another laugh from the blonde, who was in need of a root touch-up, as a response.

“You’re good at cheering people up,” Evette said as she sat up a little straighter and leaned into her friend’s embrace, placing her head on Nala’s shoulder. Nala placed her head on top of hers, bringing her closer with the arm she still had wrapped around her. “Nah, I’m just really good at deflecting from situations that require too much effort.” She said nonchalantly, causing Evette to chuckle. “But you know what I’m not going to deflect from?”

“What?” Evette questioned, still in the girl's embrace.

“How you called me a bitch earlier.” She said before smacking the girl upside her cover head. Evette flinched, bringing her hand up to rub at the spot. “You heard that?” She questioned, face contorted into one of confusion since she could’ve sworn the call had ended by the time she said that.

“Yeah, I did,” Nala stated sharply before taming her again. “I have the ears of a snow owl hunting for its prey in a blizzard.” She said dramatically. Evette paused, frowning although Nala couldn’t see it.

“You have to stop binge watching those animal planet.”Nala then hit her again, this time in the back, causing Evette to let out a small yell in pain. “Now what was that for?” She asked, moving to sit up but Nala tightened her girl around the girl, keeping her in palace against her shoulder. “That was for the ‘bitch’ you said in that little rant of yours about me not wanting to get sentimental. Now look at me, hugged up on your couch while you’re in a time of need. It doesn’t get more sentimental than that, boo.” She said.

“I am not in a time of need.” Evette was quick to add, trying to take her mind off of the new information she’s had to face at some point. Now Amit wasn’t the time.

Nala rolled her eyes at the girl. “Girl, please. Just appreciate this hug while you can. You’re not gonna get another until this movie comes out.” She said, her head still on atop of hers. “And speaking of the premiere, I know this is all months, hell maybe even years in advance in this fucked up economic and social climate, but I’m gonna need the hookup with your stylist. You know I don’t have one of those and I do not want to look like a bum on the red carpet. I’d never live it down and if I see one tweet about what I have on, someone will drop dead in the preceding three days. I know people.”

“Here you go with this voodoo shit. Whatever happened to the heifer I needed turned into a goat?”

“Well, which is it? A heifer or a goat? You were never clear.”

“You’re a year late to clear that up.”

[jazziejax]

𝐏𝐫𝐚𝐝𝐚 𝐃𝐚𝐫𝐥𝐢𝐧’

𝐏𝐚𝐢𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐬 - Kelvin Harrison Jr. x Black!OC & Damson Idris x Black!OC

𝐒𝐮𝐦𝐦𝐚𝐫𝐲 - In which past lovers turned fling and a set best friends, that connection seems deeper than platonic, have to sit through a Prada fashion show and it’s after party all while keeping face in front of the waiting cameras, when all they can contemplate is how they’ll spend the rest of their time in Milan.

𝐖𝐚𝐫𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐬 - flirting, suggestive conversation, roleplay(?), ex’s to flings, some descriptions, jealousy, best friends that lowkey want each other.

𝐉𝐚𝐳𝐳𝐢𝐞’𝐬 𝐍𝐨𝐭𝐞𝐬 - UNEDITED, sorry for any spelling errors and grammar mistakes. I did this because I’m in a Damson Idris type of mindset and there’s literally nothing for him, he’s nonexistent here. Then I remembered when I saw Kelvin at the Prada show, I was like “Both my men in one room and they didn’t even interact.” So I made this. This could’ve went the throuple route, and I still might do that, but this was my first reaction.

𝐖𝐨𝐫𝐝 𝐂𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐭 - 5,218+

The energy in the air was palpable and electric, a mix of flashing cameras as high-profile guests arrived, fans screams along with photographers demands filled the air, and the ever-present hum of fashion’s elite mingling before the show began.

Evette, dressed in mix of a Prada items, her clam look exuded confidence, but beneath the surface, she was still adjusting to this new chapter of her life. She exhaled slowly, grounding herself as she stepped onto the carpet.

The attention was still something she was adjusting to—Mufasa: The Lion King had catapulted her career into a different stratosphere and put her further into the public eye, and while she had always been comfortable in front of an audience the constant scrutiny was something she was still learning to navigate.

She posed with effortless grace, her outfit casual but cute nonetheless. She turned slightly, letting the cameras catch her best angles. Questions flew at her—about the film, future roles, even whispers of her personal life—but she handled them with the same cool demeanor that had gotten her this far.

Once inside, the energy shifted, less chaotic but still intense. She let out another sigh, releasing her anxious tension before looking down at the encouraging and hilarious messages from Nala.

I need more known so I can become a Brand Ambassador. This struggling actor shit is played out 🙄

She chuckled, shaking her head softly at the girl. She texted her a quick response before pocketing her phone and looking up. She began walking again as she glanced around, seeing the familiar faces of people she’d seen on telephone or tv screen, and others she hadn’t a clue of.

And then, right before she could make it to her seat, she saw him.

Kelvin Harrison Jr.

He looked good—annoyingly so. Dressed in a sleek Prada ensemble, the bright green color of his collar making his skin pop. He exuded the kind of ease that only came with confidence. Evette tensed, but only slightly. It’s not like it’s been long since she’d last seen him, and they were…friends now? If you could call what they had going in as friends. . They had long since moved past the initial post-breakup unease, settling into something familiar, easy. But what was it exactly? They weren’t just exes. They weren’t just co-stars. And after everything that had happened between them in the quiet, stolen moments off-camera… fling didn’t feel quite right either. She couldn’t help the feeling that wrapped around her beating heart at the sight of him. Admiring him from afar as he eased his way through the crowds of other celebrities.

Kelvin must have sensed her watching because he glanced up, locking eyes with her. A slow smile spread across his face—one of those knowing ones that made her stomach flip, even after all this time.

“Evette.” Kelvin greeted smoothly, his eyes flickering with something unreadable. His grinned, his dimples poking through his cheeks.

“Kelvin.” She returned softly, smiling at him.

“You look good,” he said, eyes flickering over her outfit, appreciation evident.

She smirked. “You clean up nice yourself. I didn’t know you’d be here.” She said coyly. Kelvin’s brows twitched in confusion, slightly squinting at her. “What? Yes you did.” He said, letting out a small laugh with the twinkle still in his eye.

Evette’s smile dropped as she smacked her lips. “I was trying to do a bit.” She grumbled softly, her bright demeanor dropping. Kelvin just let out a small laugh at her as she stepped closer. He then quirked a brow, looking down at her. “A bit? You mean like role play?” He quipped, his tone lower than before with a smirk showing his pearly whites. Evette scoffed although she couldn’t help the smile that was making its way onto her face. She reached up to give his shoulder a small push. “Really?" She squinted at him. "In public? At a fashion show?" She hissed through clenched teeth, tilting her head close so that there was no chance that their conversation could be heard, even over the chaos of the venue.

Kelvin’s smirk widened, clearly enjoying the playful banter. He leaned in a little closer, his voice dropping even lower. “You know I like to keep things interesting, Evette.” He said in a sultry tone, his eyes giving her a quick once over, subconsciously licking his plump lips before his eyes made their way back to hers. "Plus, what's wrong with a little roleplay?"

"I'm not having this conversation with you Kelvin. Not here." She said, trying to sound firm, but her grin was undeniable. She stepped around him, her coconut scent wafting in her wake. He was quick to turn and follow behind her, catching sight of her pearly smirk as she threw him a quick look over her shoulder. He grinned as he followed after her, his eye trained on the back of her curly pixie cut.

She ended up stopping behind one of the many busy crowds that flooded the place, all of the celebrity guests trying to either find their seats or speak with their industry friends. Giving the perfect opportunity for Kelvin to come up behind her, almost pressing against her back. "I like your hair." He purred. Evette hummed, not turning to look at him. "Thank you." She replied. They stood close, too close, the charged air between them impossible to ignore. It had been like this for months—lingering stares, unsaid words, touches that lasted longer than they should. They had danced around whatever this was for too long. And now, they had to keep everything in check, with no Aaron Pierre or Nala around to distract from the weight of their history.

It was silent between them then, the pair moving with the slow-paced crowd that was dispersing throughout the large building.

"So back to this roleplay thing." He said, and Evette instantly let small laugh.

"Do you ever listen?"

"No." He grinned. "I'm just saying. I believe the most healthy of couples do it?" He quipped with a shrug.

And then he froze, his eyes widened as he registered what just slipped out of his mouth. His heart began to race quickly, his eyes jumping between the side of her face and elsewhere. Evette could feel him stiffen, behind her, and she did as well. She began to blink, wondering if she heard that word leave his lips. They both wanted nothing more than clarity, but to have a conversation on what you would call their current sexual but also a friendly relationship was not one to have at a brand event.

Unexpectedly, a grin broke out on Evette's face. It was small, but it drew Kelvin's attention as she turned her head his way. “Interesting. Is that what you’re calling it now?” She crossed her arms, standing her ground even as her pulse quickened under the heat of his gaze. Kelvin froze, his lids fluttering as he tried to come up with a response under her now sultry gaze. She quirked a brow at him, causing him to stumble over his words. "Is this a part of the whole roleplay thing?" She continued when she got no response from him. A smirk on her lips. Kelvin blinked, his eyes squinting briefly as he looked at her. He then shrugged, looking almost nonchalant as he leaned back slightly, glancing around at the chaotic scene. “Hey, it’s a fashion show. Everyone’s acting like they’re the main character. I’m just doing my part.” His eyes flicked back to hers, the playful glint not fading.

She raised an eyebrow, her lips quirking to one side. “And your part is roleplay?" She asked. "And the main character? You’re more like a supporting role at best, Kelvin.”

“Ouch, damn." He said, placing a hand over his heart in mock pain, though his grin never faltered. The crowd began to disperse, leading the pair over to the small podiums they were supposed to sit at. “First off, I have been the main character of plenty of projects." He sassed at her as their steps became quicker in the free space. "And second, if I’m a supporting character, then you’re the lead, huh?"

Evette let out a short, amused breath, turning her head to look at the sea of flashing cameras.

"Why wouldn't I be the main character? This is my roleplay scenario after all, isn't it?" She asked. And if Kelvin had a drink he would've spit it out. He couldn’t believe she was really playing along with his stupid scenario. He also didn’t know that his joking could actually lead to something she could be into. Kelvin blinked, momentarily stunned, before a slow, impressed grin spread across his face. He tilted his head, stepping a little closer as they neared their seats. "Oh, so now it’s your scenario? I thought you didn’t do roleplay, Evette?”

She shrugged, casually adjusting the straps of her outfit. "I don’t.” She said, then glanced at him from the corner of her eye. "But if I did, I’d obviously be the lead. And iI’s obviously so it with you. It’s just the natural order of things.” She stated, Kelvin’s gaze getting trapped looking at her bloody lips that excused the sultry tone she spoke in. He let out a low chuckle, shaking his head. "You’re unbelievable." Was all he could muster, barely a mumbled, as he began to become aroused at a public event, looking at the woman in front of him

"And you’re predictable.” She shot back, glancing down at the lower half of his body to see if he obvious attraction was alerting anyone else in the building into. When he couldn’t see anything, she looked back up at the man. "Always trying to keep up." She said as they came upon their seat, Evette looking for her name plate on one of them.

Kelvin scoffed, nit even caring to look for his seat as he followed after her. "Keep up? Please. If anything, I’m the plot twist. The unexpected character development. The fan-favorite side character that steals the show." He said, and he knew he had began rambling with just about anything to distract himself from the tent that would show up in his pants if they kept their little conversation from earlier up, and he did not want pictures of that encounter popping up on the internet.

Evette hummed, pretending to consider. "Mmm... More like comedic relief."

Kelvin clutched his chest in mock offense, his dimples deepening as he fought back a grin. "Wow. So I’m just here for laughs now?"

"Well.” She teased, dragging out the word as she found her seat, her name written in nice ink on a piece of cardstock. She grinned as she moved the paper and then took a seat. She crossing her legs and then looked up at his figure towering over her. “You are entertaining." She said with a shrug.

Kelvin narrowed his eyes, his lips twitching. "Okay.” He simply shrugged before taking the seat next to her, not even nothing to check the name, only moving the tag back a little so he didn’t smush it. As he took his seat, sitting so close, his slack covered legs brushed against bare ones, due to her denim skirt. Chills ran down her legs at the feelings, but slammed if lighted when he placed his hand on his leg, his fingers beginning to brush against her smooth skin. The touch was brief but intentional, and the heat of it lingered between them. Evette raised an eyebrow, unimpressed but clearly amused.

"That’s it?" She asked dryly. "That’s your big comeback? A caress of skin? Wow. Riveting. I’m so turned on."

Kelvin huffed a laugh, shaking his head as he sat back. "Nah, I’m just warming up. This is how it started off, two people meeting at a fashion show, but the obvious connection is there.” He said, his tone low, as well as his eyes as he glanced at her. “See, I know you. You act like you’re cool, calm, and collected, but you love when I get under your skin."

Evette scoffed, rolling her eyes. "Kelvin, please." She said before gulping. She could really only pay attention to his last statement, the explanation of the beginning of their role play infighting a fire within her stomach she didn’t know she had. And she was bit about to get fired up and he wasn’t going to commit.

"Nah, nah, nah, let’s be real.” He said, tilting his head as he studied her. "You say you don’t do roleplay, but you’re way too good at this for a beginner, unless this is the acting talking. It’s almost like you’ve been waiting for someone to match your energy."

Evette didn’t answer right away, just smiled knowingly as she adjusted her posture, her confidence radiating. "You talk a lot for someone who just got demoted to comedic relief.” She finally said, her voice dripping with amusement. “Stranger.” She shrugged, counting to add onto the bit.

Kelvin exhaled a laugh, dragging a hand over his face before shaking his head. "You got jokes tonight, huh?"

"I always have jokes.” She countered easily. "You just have to get to know me. Plus you make it too easy.”

Kelvin studied her for a moment, his expression shifting just slightly—still playful, but with an underlying curiosity. "You know, Stranger," He mused, his voice softer now, “For all the talking we’re doing, we still haven’t actually said anything."

Evette met his gaze, the energy between them shifting just slightly. She tilted her head, considering him. "Maybe some things don’t need to be said."

Kelvin held her stare for a beat longer before smirking. "Or maybe," he murmured, leaning just a fraction closer, "You’re just scared of the conversation."

Evette’s lips twitched, but before she could respond, movement from across the room caught her attention.

Their banter paused as the cameras outside the glass walls flashed wildly. A commotion. A shift in energy.

And then she saw them.

Damson Idris and Noémie Adebayo.

Evette’s eyes flickered toward Kelvin’s, seeing that he had noticed them too. Damson and Noémie were locked in a tight embrace, their reunion playing out in full view of the crowd. The cameras caught everything—the warmth, the familiarity, the unspoken history between them.

Kelvin let out a low whistle. "Well, damn."

Evette hummed in agreement, watching as Damson and Noémie exchanged words within each others embrace, their body language easy and comfortable, but tinged with something deeper.

"You think there’s something there?" Kelvin asked, not looking at her but rather at the scene unfolding in front of them.

Evette considered before shrugging. "Could be.” She said. "Some things never really go away."

Kelvin glanced at her then, something unreadable in his expression. "Yeah," He murmured. "Some things don’t."

For a moment, neither of them spoke.

Then Evette smirked. "But if they start roleplaying in public, then we’ll really have something to talk about."

Kelvin barked out a laugh, shaking his head. "You really think you’re funny, huh?"

Evette just grinned. "No, Kelvin. I know I am."

Kelvin leaned back, watching her with a look that was equal parts amused and intrigued. "Alright then, miss main character. Let’s see how this story plays out."

“Don’t flatter me.” She aid, straightening her posture. “You’re looking a little too good tonight to be calling me the star.”

His eyes lingered on her a beat too long, his gaze unreadable, but it was enough to make Evette feel a flutter of something unfamiliar in her stomach. She looked away, trying to play it cool.

“Anyway, you should get to your seat.” She said, beginning to brush imaginary dust off his attire before nodding her head to the seat across from her, which held his name. “Enjoy the show, Mr.” She grinned.

“Well don’t be such a stranger, Miss. We’re both here for the same reason, right? To have a little fun.” He grinned back at her before wining from his seat next to her and moving to the one that held his name, directly across from her.

And over in the paparazzi frenzy, were the pair that would for sure be the stars of the night.

Noémie Adebayo and Damson Idris.

Two people who didn’t need an introduction, not to anyone in the industry.

The Prada show had already been a spectacle, but for Noémie Adebayo, the real event was happening off the runway. She was stunning in her designer denim dress ensemble, held herself with effortless poise. She posed for the cameras, her relaxed manner showing her ever confidence in her appearance. It had been about two years since the last season of Snowfall aired, since then, her and her busy costars have kind of been off the grid. She’s been working on her part in the Special Opps: Lioness, where she plays a young but ruthless CIA agent with a tragic backstory. And she was also starring in the 2025 movie OPUS with a her good friend Ayo Edebiri.

So even with the show coming to an end, that doesn’t mean the work stopped. And with being so busy, she and her best friend have been separated for a long time.

Ever since the first season of Snowfall, the viewers fell in love with her and Damson’s on-screen chemistry. The connection between Franklin and Diana felt real. She hadn’t seen Damson in what felt like ages—not properly, at least. Their last season of Snowfall had wrapped with a dramatic, gut-wrenching ending, their on-screen chemistry immortalized in the eyes of fans. And the connection between Damson and Noémie felt real as well. People loved to see them together, from the pictures and videos that came from set, to the moments they’d have in red carpets, to the paparazzi photos that surfaced of them spending time in each other’s home town. Their chemistry was alive and apparent, no matter how much they denied it. But after the show ended in 2023, their public interactions had dwindled. Life had moved forward. Damson had went open—very publicly—with his relationship with a gorgeous model, while Noémie poured herself into new projects, and the occasional friendly check-ins had dwindled to near silence.

Damson had been the first to notice her, his genuine smile growing as he closed the distance between them, coming up behind her. “Well, well. Noémie Adebayo.”

“Damson!” She replied once he turned around, letting his name roll off her tongue excitedly, before ringing him into a tight embrace. “Oh, it’s been so long!” She gushed, her head placed on his shoulder as he bent to her height a bit. So close that she was breathing in nothing but his woodsy scent. He raised to his full height, lifting her up in their tight hug. She squealed briefly before her feet hit the ground again, the cameras flashing quickly to catch the moment between the two stars. The shouts of fans and press became louder to get their attention, but they were entrapped within their win moment. Damson chuckled with his wrapped his arms around her, hands low on her waist and holding her just a beat longer than necessary. “Too long, my love.” He murmured near her ear before pulling back. His hands lingered on her waist as he looked down at her, taking in her outfit. “Damn, look at you.” He grinned.

Noémie smirked, adjusting the collar of his sleek Prada coat. “Looking sharp yourself. I see the Milan air has been treating this melanin well.” She said before quirking a brow at him. “Or all of those other vacations of yours.” She smirked, alluding to his various of paparazzi photos of him and his new girlfriend in various vacation spots, soaking in the sun.

“I could say the same.” He shot back, eyes sweeping over her denim dress ensemble. “Special Ops, huh? Trading the L.A. streets for CIA territory?” He asked. “Diana would be ashamed of you.” He reached out absentmindedly to adjust the collar of her blazer, his fingers brushing against her shoulder. She stilled, her breath catching for just a second, but neither of them acknowledged the moment. Instead, they kept talking, falling into the same effortless rhythm they always had.

She laughed. “I know! But I had to switch it up. Plus, they let me do some cool shit in this.”

“Selling drugs and killing people wasn’t cool shit?” He asked, his grin widening.

“No, it was, but now I’m doing, like, next level stuff. Like, in season two, I’m jumping out of helicopters.” She grinned. Damson’s brows raised at that, looking down at her with his hands still placed on her waist. “Oh, now that, I’d pay to see. ‘Cause aren’t you scared of heights?”

“Yes!”

Before she could explain more, the cameras swarmed them. Photographers called their names, flashing bulbs illuminating their faces as they stood there, side by side. The internet was already catching fire—two years since Snowfall ended, and here they were again, looking as comfortable, as close, as right as ever. Seeing them together again, the spark was undeniable. It wasn’t just nostalgia. It was muscle memory. Six seasons of playing lovers, knowing each other’s rhythms, finishing each other’s sentences—it all lingered in the way they looked at each other, the way her lips twitched into a smirk before he even said a word.

Noémie turned her head slightly, lowering her voice. “Are you ready?” She asked

Damson raised an eyebrow. “For what?”

“For the internet to explode.” She said before letting out a long sigh, knowing that this would be a topic in her phone for at least two weeks. He let out a laugh, shaking his head. “They never let up, huh?”

“You know they don’t.” She said before beginning to pose for photos with him next to her. Damson moved his hand on her waist, her hand on top of his as they posed for the plethora of cameras. “But you should be used to it though.” She said, trying not to disrupt her smile too much as she glanced up at him. “I seen that scene of you in Swarm, Mr.Idris.” She grinned, just as they felt that those were enough pictures. Damson laughed, shaking his head and he walked in front of her, holding his hand out for her to take. She took it, it even paying attention to the cameras and press that wanted to speak as he led her since if the venue. “Oh, you saw that?” He asked rhetorically.

“Everybody and they mama saw it, Damson!” She grinned as they continued to talk, just as what they said would happen, happened. Social media was already in a frenzy, dissecting every glance, every touch, every shift in body language.

Were they just friends? Was there something more? Had there always been something more?

Damson was still looking at her when someone from the event staff came over, politely letting them know it was time to head to their seats.

“Come on.” Noémie said, nudging him playfully. “Can’t have Prada waiting.”

“Wouldn’t dream of it.” He replied, walking beside her, still hand in hand.

As they weaved through the crowd, still hand in hand, the noise around them faded into the background. It had been two years, but being with Noémie felt like no time had passed at all. Damson glanced down at her, taking in her easy stride, the way she carried herself like she was born for this.

“So, CIA agent now, huh? What else have you been up to?” He asked, finally letting her hand go as they approached the private seating area, only for him to gently push her in don’t of him as the crowd became thick and he didn’t want to lose her or for her to get hurt.

Noémie hummed, adjusting her dress slightly. “Been working non-stop. Special Ops has me in the gym every day, training like I’m actually about to take on a mission. OPUS press hasn’t started, I don’t even think the trailers dropped yet. And then there’s Sinners with Michael.”

At the mention of Michael B. Jordan, Damson’s expression shifted. He didn’t react immediately, but she caught the slight tension in his jaw. His gaze was trained above her head, trying his dammdest to look anywhere but her eyes at the moment. “Right.” He began. “I saw those pictures.” His voice was casual—too casual.

She glanced up at him, a confused grin on her lips. “What pictures?”

Damson scoffed. “You know what pictures. You and him, all cozy, looking like a damn power couple in New York.”

Noémie blinked, thinking of why he was talking about before she laughed, shaking her head. “Oh, that was just press.” She said, a small smile on her face, not sensing the tensions Damson had in his frame. “We’re filming together, and we were just having dinner that day. The media grabbed a whole of it and took it with the wind.” She grinned, although her tone bridged in annoyance as she remembered the day those photos dropped. That lasted for months, but she was just glad that she last season had already aired or else that red carpet for the premiere would’ve been a little awkward for her. She glanced back up at him due to his silence, quirking a brow. “Don’t tell me you thought—” She trailed off, her smirk widening as she caught the way his lips pressed into a thin line. “You thought me and him were a thing?” She questioned.

He clicked his tongue, looking away. “Nah.”

She nudged his arm playfully. “Yes, you did! Damson, come on. You think I’d date Michael?”

“I mean, you were looking quite comfortable.” He said, finally glancing back down at her and connecting eyes. She blinked up at him, amusement clear on her face along with questioning. “Out all day, holding hands.” He listed.

“We were just holding hands.” She told him, giving a lousy gesture to behind them as she brought up only moments ago when they walked into the building, hand in hand.

“Yeah, but we’re best friends, I’ve known you for almost ten years. You’ve known him, what, three?” He scoffed out. Noémie looked up at him, her amusement still clear as they continued walking to their seats, the occasional camera clicking their way, caring them in action as they moved. She couldn’t help but smile at Damson’s obvious jealousy, because he was right. Such a great friendship for ten years and neither of them got a heads up on who the other one was dating. At least, not on her end. But that’s because she wasn’t dating Micheal! He probably felt that he was being relied on her life or something, she thought.

She rolled her eyes at him. “Because we’re friends, and we’re in a movie together. That’s it.” She paused, tilting her head at him. “But why do you care?” She asked, wanting to hear the words from his mouth instead of making up her own assumptions.

Damson opened his mouth, then shut it. He exhaled through his nose, running a hand over his jaw. “It’s just… weird, innit? You & Michael. He’s…” He trailed off, his voice quieter now. “Lori’s ex.”

Noémie’s teasing smile faltered slightly, not expecting that to be what he said. “And she’s your girlfriend. Is that what this is about?”

He sighed, rubbing his chin. “Me and Lori… we’re done.”

Noémie raised an eyebrow. “Done as in… on a break? Or done done?”

“Done done.” He admitted. “It’s been rocky for a while. We tried, but…” He shrugged. “It wasn’t working.”

She studied him for a moment, her teasing demeanor fading into something softer. “You okay?”

Damson shrugged again, though this time, his smile was a little more genuine. “Yeah. Just… moving on.” He shot her a look. “Which I thought you were doing with Michael.” He added, looking down at accusingly. “I was going crazy on all those trips when those photos drooped, thinking ‘How could by beating not tell me this?’ And you dating my, at the time, girlfriend’s ex boyfriend didn’t help either.”

Noémie rolled her eyes. “Michael is a friend. He’s not even my type, I think.” She shrugged.

Damson arched a brow. “Not your type? You think? Man’s a superstar, rich, got the muscles and all that.”

She smirked up at him at that. “Sounds like he’s your type.” She quipped, causing Damson to smack his lips as he nudged her forward a little. “So annoying.” He grumbled. “And you’re nosey.” She shot back playfully. “You were on vacation with you boo worried about what I had going on. You’re no better than those people on The Shaderoom.” She smirked.

Before he could retort, a staff member gently tapped his shoulder, gaining both of their attention. The polite man smiled at them before stating that he would lead them to their seat. He then signaling for them to take their seats when they arrived and Damson barely had time to process their conversation before he was led toward his assigned spot.

“See you after,” Noémie said, flashing him a knowing smile before slipping into her own seat as the man led Damson to the one across from her.

As the lights dimmed slightly and guests settled in, the two men exchanged glances, acknowledging each other with a polite nod. They weren’t close, but they were familiar enough—two industry men who had crossed paths before.

Damson settled in next to Kelvin Harrison Jr., who was already watching him with a smirk.

Kelvin leaned in slightly. “You good, bro?”

Damson exhaled, shaking his head. “Man… I don’t even know.”

Kelvin chuckled, nodding toward Noémie across the table. “Yeah. I can see that.”

Noémie found herself next to Evette, who had just finished her own set of conversations and photo ops from the press that came by to take photos of her in her seat. Across from them, directly in their line of sight, were Kelvin and Damson.

Evette barely glanced at Kelvin before shifting her attention to Noémie. “How was the reunion?” She asked, nodding her head over to the commotion they unintentionally caused at the entrance.

Noémie exhaled through a laugh. “Exactly what you’d expect.”

Evette hummed, stealing a glance at the two men across from them. “Well, you have his attention.”

Kelvin and Damson sat back, their body language relaxed but their eyes locked onto the women in front of them. Each man subtly watched the woman across from him—the way Kelvin’s gaze lingered on Evette’s animated expressions as she spoke, the way Damson’s eyes traced Noémie’s movements as she laughed.

Kelvin finally spoke, low enough for only Damson to hear. “So… that’s Noémie.”

Damson smirked, not taking his eyes off her. “That’s Noémie.”

Kelvin nodded, a knowing look passing between them. “Yeah. I get it.”

Damson finally turned to him, chuckling. “And you? You’re looking at Evette like she owes you something.”

Kelvin’s jaw tightened slightly before he masked it with a grin. “Maybe she does.”

Damson raised an eyebrow but didn’t press further. Instead, his attention drifted back to Noémie, who had caught him staring and was now arching a playful eyebrow in return.

The show hadn’t even started, and yet, all eyes were already on them.

-evette

liked by kelvharrjr, noemieadebayo, nanalicampbell, and 34,000 others

evette first fashion show, kinda nervous :/…

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nanalicampbell wow! you’re, like, famous now!

⤷ evette don’t be weird Nala

⤷ nanalicampbell what?…

kelvharrjr who’s that dapper gentleman loafer next to you? I would like for you to tell him he’s dressed rather nice.

⤷ evette they will delete my account for the words I’m about to say to you.

⤷ kelvharrjr 🫢

noemieadebayo it was so nice talking to you! we have ti catch up some time again.

⤷ evette yes, it was so nice speaking to you as well! you’re messy and I love that, we gotta link again!

randomuser97 oh so they were at the Prada show other?…which could mean nothing.

⤷ otheruser1133 mind you, they’re both brand ambassadors for Prada?

randomeuserouthere idk if I wanna be her or him…

randomuser I could be their third 🫡

anotheruser when did she cut her hair? why is no in freaking out about this?

⤷ otheruser1133 baby, her hair been cut…

- noemieadebayo

liked by, damsonidris, evette, michaelbjordan, Prada, and 85,000 others

noemieadebayo prada dem

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evette the real runway diva

⤷ noemieadebayo 🤫

damsonidris my mini me! 😘

⤷ noemieadebayo damsie!

⤷ Prada the prada family! ❤️

Prada we love you!!💕

noemieadebayo luv u Prada <3

damsonidrisfanpage is that who I think it is?….i know that ain’t my man

⤷ otheruser1133 and he’s sending kissy faces in the chat 😔 that’s her man I fear

otheruser1133 they need to date already. I’ve been here for ten years!

randomuser10 mhmm, see that’s what I’m taking about. A black king right there!

If you wanted to be added to this tag list or any others, let a sista know! Let me know if you like it, I gotta write a dissertation for university now. If this gets enough likes, I’ll do some more parts to this but be warned, after they leave that fashion show thing might get a little freaky…

@theclownmimi @vile-harlot @notapradagurl7 @nubiagurllll @saltburnsworld @imsohappyilovekbop @jazzycool30 @kaylaahisthebestest- @mccteez @officialthrad @irishmanwhore

[jazziejax]

Would you guys read this?…

I want to know before I spend my time on it and you guys hate it.

[jazziejax]

Me resisting the urge to write something for Franklin Saint/Damson Idris because I’m rewatching SnowFall and I have other things that need updating

[jazziejax]

Did you guys see the O’DESSA trailer with Kelvin Harrison Jr., Regina Hall and Sadie Sink?

He has blue hair and it looks a little freaky and kinky….im excited!

[jazziejax]

And if I start writing a David Cliff fic on Kelvin’s character in The High Note, then what?

[jazziejax]

One thing about me, if I’m writing a Kelvin fic, Aaron’s gonna make his way in there, someway, somehow and vice versa. I’m a simple woman, I like handsome men, shoot me. 🤷🏽‍♀️

In my recent Kelvin fic about David Cliff, Pierre is literally Aaron…

[jazziejax]

Updated!!!

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ 𝐀𝐚𝐫𝐨𝐧 𝐏𝐢𝐞𝐫𝐫𝐞.ᐟ.ᐟ

.ᐟ.ᐟ𝐃𝐞𝐯-𝐄𝐦 | 𝐌𝐲 𝐒𝐨𝐮𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐧 𝐃𝐞𝐥𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐭…

𝐂𝐡𝐚𝐩𝐭𝐞𝐫 𝐎𝐧𝐞. 𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐂𝐫𝐚𝐬𝐡 | ★ ★ ★

𝐂𝐡𝐚𝐩𝐭𝐞𝐫 𝐓𝐰𝐨. 𝐀 𝐍𝐞𝐜𝐞𝐬𝐬𝐚𝐫𝐲 | ★ ★

.ᐟ.ᐟ 𝐓𝐞𝐫𝐫𝐲 𝐑𝐢𝐜𝐡𝐦𝐨𝐧𝐝…

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ 𝐊𝐞𝐥𝐯𝐢𝐧 𝐇𝐚𝐫𝐫𝐢𝐬𝐨𝐧 𝐉𝐫. .ᐟ.ᐟ

.ᐟ.ᐟ𝐊𝐞𝐥𝐯𝐢𝐧 | 𝐎𝐧𝐞 𝐒𝐡𝐨𝐭𝐬…

𝐂𝐨𝐳𝐲 𝐍𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐭𝐬… | ★ ★

𝐀𝐧𝐝 𝐒𝐨𝐟𝐭 𝐌𝐨𝐫𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐬… | ★ ★

.ᐟ.ᐟ 𝐃𝐚𝐯𝐢𝐝 𝐂𝐥𝐢𝐟𝐟…

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ 𝐊𝐞𝐥𝐯𝐢𝐧 & 𝐀𝐚𝐫𝐨𝐧 .ᐟ.ᐟ

.ᐟ.ᐟ 𝐁𝐚𝐝 𝐁𝐨𝐲𝐬 𝐀𝐔

𝐂𝐡𝐚𝐩𝐭𝐞𝐫 𝐎𝐧𝐞. 𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐑𝐮𝐧 𝐈𝐧 | ★ ★ ★ ★

𝐂𝐡𝐚𝐩𝐭𝐞𝐫 𝐓𝐰𝐨. 𝐀𝐧𝐨𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐫 𝐃𝐚𝐲 | coming soon…

.ᐟ.ᐟ 𝐈𝐧𝐯𝐢𝐬𝐢𝐛𝐥𝐞 𝐒𝐭𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐠

𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐥𝐨𝐠𝐮𝐞. | ★ ★ ★

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ 𝐃𝐚𝐦𝐬𝐨𝐧 𝐈𝐝𝐫𝐢𝐬 .ᐟ.ᐟ

.ᐟ.ᐟ 𝐃𝐚𝐦𝐬𝐨𝐧 𝐈𝐝𝐫𝐢𝐬 | 𝐎𝐧𝐞 𝐒𝐡𝐨𝐭𝐬…

𝐑𝐚𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐫 𝐒𝐥𝐲…| 𝐅𝟏.ᐟ𝐃𝐚𝐦𝐬𝐨𝐧 𝐈𝐝𝐫𝐢𝐬

.ᐟ.ᐟ𝐅𝐫𝐚𝐧𝐤𝐥𝐢𝐧 𝐒𝐢𝐚𝐧𝐭 | coming soon