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“Aight, I’ll be right back.” The soft warmth of War’s lips meeting Cali’s neck brought on a smile while she turned her head to watch as he walked away, disappearing through the sliding door at the back of JB’s house. Cali was so caught up in watching her man that she startled when a body landed next to her followed by a voice she didn’t recognize. Cali turned to find Shalece a little too close for comfort.
“Cali, right?”
Without responding, Cali’s eyes roved over Shalece and she smiled smugly when she said, “Nobody, right?”
Shalece laughed lightly. “You shouldn’t overinflate your value. We’re not all that different. I fucked Merritt and War. You fucked Merritt and War.”
The expression on Cali’s face shifted into anger and Shalece continued, “Yeah I know all about that. I saw your name on Merritt’s phone a few times before he died. I put it all together when I heard your name tonight.”
“Sweetheart, we are not the same. Not even close.”
“Don’t be so sure, boo. I might not get him back, but you damn sure won’t keep him. Niggas like the chase and they also like the reward behind the risk. Now that he’s played on your playground, there’s no reason to stay. Take it from someone who knows him very well.” Shalece smiled slowly. “But do what you want with that.”
She left and Cali moved to Conner who had already peeped the exchange and was making her way to Cali.
“What was that?”
“Desperation,” Cali stated with confidence.
“You want to do something about it?”
“Nope.” Cali looped her arm through her sister’s and allowed her head to rest on Conner’s shoulder. Cali didn’t doubt or question War’s intentions. He had more than proven how he would show up for Cali as well as defined her place in his life. If anything changed she would address the issue, but for now she trusted that they were good.
“Where’s your man?” Conner squinted and looked around.
“Inside, talking to someone. I was about to find you to let you know we’re leaving when he’s done.” Cali grinned at Conner. “Unless you want to stay.” She tipped her head to York who was watching them both but still had the same woman in his lap.
“Ain’t nobody worried about his player ass.” Conner rolled her eyes but delivered a sly smile.
“He’s been watching you all night.”
“And I’ve been watching him…” Conner pulled Cali into her side. “…rotate women to try and prove a point.”
“What point?”
“That he wants me.” Her smile expanded.
“And you don’t want him?”
“Maybe, but not right now. I’m weighing my options.” Her smile was smug and the women shared a look and laughed. Life was good. Not perfect but better than it had been in years.
“My mom wants you and Conner to come to dinner next Sunday.”
Cali lifted her head, struggling to keep her eyes open. The drinks from the cookout mixed with good dick had her inches away from drifting.
“To talk about my uterus?”
War chuckled. “Probably, but nah, just to feed you and see your face. That’s her thing. She needs to put eyes on the people she cares about so she feels at peace.”
Cali’s chest grew tight. War spoke so casually but the words landed heavily. “I’m on her list?”
“Yeah, man. Your sister too. She fucks with you and not just because of me. You’re good people.”
“I know but still…”
My own parents barely acknowledge me.
“Chill with that,” he mumbled into her hair, brushing his fingers down her spine.
