Page 131 of Plus Size Player
“Then what’s complicated?”
“You know how I got that modeling deal? The Fun One, Russ, is the CEO of the company. So that’s how it’s complicated. Because if it comes out that we are together, that could ruin this opportunity for me.”
Mom let a long exhale. “Oh, Nina.”
“I know.”
“What are you going to do?”
“I have no idea.”
“This is tough.”
I shook my head in amusement. “I know.”
“Well, how much do you like this man? Because I already know how much the modeling contract means to you. How much does this man mean to you? And is it worth the contract? Is it worth everything you worked hard to do?”
I squeezed my eyes shut. “That’s why I was calling you! I need clarity.”
“Well, sweetheart, you’re only going to get that from within.”
“I know,” I wailed, knowing she was right.
“Mm, mm, mm.”
We sat in silence for a minute.
“If he’s the man you’re meant to be with, it’s going to work out,” she assured me. “When I met your father, I wasn’t looking for a husband. But I found him. It doesn’t matter what you plan for when God’s already got your plan in motion. So, the job and the man will both work themselves out. I know it.”
“Thanks, Mom.”
As we said our goodbyes and ended the call, I got off the couch and grabbed my stuff for the gym. The conversation with my mom didn’t provide any clarity. In fact, it made me feel even stronger about my connection to Russ and to my opportunity with RLF. So, I planned to spend the day thinking about anything and everything else but that.
No such luck.
I had an intense workout and every muscle in my body ached because of the acrobatic positions Russ had put me in. I had a delicious lunch and thought about how when I was full the night before, Russ rubbed my belly. When I spent the afternoon posting content on social media and responding with comments, I couldn’t help but think how it was Russ’s brand that I was representing.
I can’t escape this man,I thought with a rueful smile.
Refocusing, I put my phone on do not disturb, turned the music volume up high, and worked diligently. My stomach grumbled and when I looked at the clock, I was surprised. Grabbing my phone, I made my way to the kitchen, checking my missed calls. There were quite a few people I needed to follow up with. But there was one in particular I needed to take care of.
“If it ain’t Disappearing Acts herself,” The Funny One greeted me. “Where has your sexy ass been?”
I smiled. “Hey, James. I’ve been doing a lot, honestly. I’ve been meaning to get in touch with you.”
“Well, I have a show tomorrow and I’d love for you to come. We could reconnect. Afterward, I can take you out to dinner and then take you home for dessert. And don’t immediately say no. It’s been a minute and you’ve been depriving me all summer. I’m starting to think you got a man or something?” he joked.
I listened to his light chuckle in silence before clearing my throat. “That’s what I’ve been meaning to talk to you about.”
“Oh shit… you got a man? Like, one man?”
“Something like that.”
“I thought you didn’t want anything serious or exclusive.”
“I didn’t think I wanted anything serious or exclusive either.”
“And this is what you really want?”
