I stepped out and looked around, making sure no one was lurking.
The coast was clear.
“Hey, baby, I’m glad you made it,” my mother said as I stepped into the building. Crystal chandeliers sparkled above linen-draped tables and soft jazz played in the background. “You’re late.”
“Sorry, I had a hard time figuring out what I wanted to wear.”
Lies. I had a hard time climbing off of Shade’s dick before getting in the shower.
Oh, we did go one more time after I set my boundaries. You know, just to seal the deal.
“Well, you look amazing. Where did you get this dress? I don’t think I’ve seen you in this one before.”
That’s because my man, who isn’t my man, bought it for me.
“I don’t remember. It’s been sitting in my closet for a while.”
“Hmm...well, it looks good on you.”
“Thank you.” I lowered my gaze, admiring the sleek, off-the-shoulder cocktail dress that skimmed my curves with effortless grace.
I must say, the man knew what I liked.
“Oh,” my mother said, giving my wrist a gentle squeeze. “Your father’s been waiting for you. He’s over by the food, talking to Eli.”
“Talking to who?” I asked, my throat tightening.
“Eli,” my mother repeated. “He got here over an hour ago. I asked him why you two didn’t come together, and he said that he came straight from a gig.”
Clearly, my mother didn’t keep up with the blogs.
“Well, I’ll let you go chat. We’re about to sit down and eat in a few.” She gave me a quick pat on the arm, then strolled away to make small talk with the other guests.
As soon as my eyes landed on Eli, I could feel my insides flood with rage.
Skye bumped my arm. “Bitch, why is Eli here? And where have you been? I thought you would’ve been here way before me.”
“I couldn’t decide what I wanted to wear, and I don’t know why the fuck Eli is here. Has he said anything to you?”
“No, he hasn’t.”
“Hmm...” I folded my arms over my chest, then looked at Skye. “What are you doing here? I thought you would’ve stayed home after everything that happened.”
“Areyouat home?”
“No. But it’s my father.”
“Yeah, well, he’s like a father to me too. I’m not about to let Mecca’s bitch ass keep me away from people that I care about.”
“Is he still blocked?”
“Yep.”
“Has he come by your place?”
“Yep, and I had the police escort his ass of the premises just a few hours ago.”
“Oh, wow, you’re really done fucking with him, huh?”
