“I love you more, my love. Can I have my Sweet Pea today? I just miss her face and want to spend some time with her.”
“Of course. She’d love that.”
“Okay. I’m going to go to the market and get some more fruits and milk, then I’ll be by to pick her up.”
“Okay. I’ll have her ready for you.”
“Talk to you soon.”
“Okay. Bye, Mommy.”
“Bye, baby.”
I hung up just as Truce entered the room. He came over, scooping me from the seat, then sitting down with me while I secured Scottie on my lap.
“What's wrong, Mama?”
I shook my head, not wanting to be dramatic.
“Don’t do that, J. Talk to me,” Truce urged me.
“I was just… All of this is a little overwhelming, but I'm okay now.”
“You sure? I’m only trying to make sure you’re good.”
“I know, and I appreciate you so much. You didn’t have to do half of the things you’ve done. The fact that you’re putting your life and relationship with your brother at risk for me makes me feel bad.”
“Look at me.”
I gave him my eyes and nearly melted at the passion his held.
“You’re worth it, love,” he stated as he tightened his grip on me. “You’re worth more than you give yourself credit for. No matter what I have to do, I’m going to make sure you continue to have the life you’ve always wanted. I’m going to make sure you regain your passion and purpose—the big stage, dancing for big names—let’s restore what has been damaged, and bring back what was lost. Even if you decide you don’t want this with me.”
My eyes watered, and a smile graced my face. “Thank you…”
I kissed his lips, and he placed his hand on the back of my neck, deepening it. We were only able to indulge for two seconds before Scottie crawled in between us, prompting me to move away.
“Little girl, you turn one and think you run things now?”
“Psho, nuh-na, ma-e!”
We fell out laughing at her attempt to respond. I was so bugged out at her behavior that I could do nothing but chuckle.
“Whatever you just said, little girl. I see you’re going to be talking before your time.”
“I understood al’lat,” Truce said, laughing and kissing her head.
“My mom is coming to get her in a minute. She wants to spend some time with her today.”
“Good, because I want to spend some time with her mama,” he said, thrusting his hips, prompting me to laugh. “I also want to kick it to you about something.”
“What’s that?”
“I kind of booked us flights to South Carolina for this weekend. I want you to meet my dad’s side of the family.”
“Really? You don’t think it’s too soon…”
“I don’t. You’re going to see the reason why I am the way I am. It’ll give you the chance to get to know me a little better.”
