He provided safe spaces throughout the city for kids to go after school. They had activities, free tutoring, and a gymnasium to play ball and other sports.
Having the protection of our family, most of the families felt comfortable sending their kids to us and the kids felt safe when they needed to get away from their families for a beat. This gala was to expand this experience through the entire country. Every city receiving a safe space to just be kids.
“I'm proud of you, brother,” Arlando said after a few minutes.
“What for?”
“For doing what was necessary despite the rules.”
“He was no family of ours but thank you. Rispetto.”
“Always.”
Once we made our way back to Cousin Dimitri’s home, I hopped in the shower to let the water ease my day away. Myonce tense shoulders were beaten into relaxation as the six showerheads had their way with me. I was grateful for the relief.
I hadn’t realized how much of an effect Jeffrey was having on me and his demise was a pressure I could get rid of forever. The only thing consuming my thoughts now was Brandy.
Seeing that genuine smile on her face once more would be worth all this trouble. I hadn’t seen it as bright since Puerto Rico and that bothered me. I knew it was because fear lived within her. Maybe I should call her and bring some relief to her life though I’d much prefer to say it in person.
I called Brandy on FaceTime. Looking at the time, she should be out of all her classes for the day and home chilling.
“Hey, babe!” she said as we connected. She was driving and the sun was beaming on her, showing off that smooth skin I loved to lick. I checked her facial expression to get a feel of how this conversation might go. Though she was excited, it was easy to detect when things weren’t going her way.
“Damn honeybee, you’re looking gorgeous. How are you?” She glanced at the camera and put on a big smile that matched my own.
“Good. Great, actually. I just left the third facility. Just closed on it! Babe, you should’ve seen the place. I mean it was so cute and unique and it’s in this cute shopping center right off the highway. Good area too.”
She was excited and I couldn’t help but share it with her. Just seeing her beam like this made me hold onto the news I wanted to share. I’d let her dwell in this moment because it was a great one indeed. It bothered me that I’d incorrectly guessed her mood. I was off my square.
“Congratulations, baby. I know that feels good. You’ve been working very diligently to make things happen.”
She nodded. That smile never left her face. “For sure. I can’t wait to decorate. You know interior design is kind of my thing.”
“Oh, really now? I had no idea,” I replied sarcastically.
Of course I knew my baby got down like that. I could tell from the décor in her home and each facility that she touched it all herself. She had a unique flare that couldn’t be mistaken for anyone else’s.
“You geeking.” She giggled. “What’s up though? I thought you’d be getting ready for your gala by now.”
She glanced at me again as she slowed to make a turn. She threw on sunshades and I felt myself bricking up. Little things like this complemented her so effortlessly and always had me drooling over her. She was bad ass and all mine. I was a lucky man. By far the luckiest man on the planet to have her long for me at all after being with a schmuck like Jeffrey.
When I didn’t reply, her eyes finally looked at the screen and she instantly smiled.
“Damn, I wish I took that shower with you,” she said, then licked her lips.
“Shit, me too. I miss you, baby. I can’t wait to see you.”
“Yeah, in another week or so.” She rolled her eyes. I knew the time apart was getting to her. I wanted to bring her along, but she had business to take care of and I wasn’t about to stop her from being great and handling her responsibilities.
“I know it’s difficult, but I have been holding up my end of the bargain, correct?”
“Yes. You have. I always look forward to our calls and make sure I have nothing else going on so I can spend as much time talking to you as possible.”
“I’ll be home before you know it.”
“Don’t tease me,” she said flatly.
“Is it a tease if it’s factual, honeybee?”
