“I never get into trouble.”
“Yeah, right,” Irish retorted with doubt. “Your ass was just pregnant.”
“Yeah, but I got an abortion. Trust me, I won’t get caught slippin’ again, sis. I have to tell you, though, that the guy does live here. As long as I don't run into him, then I’m good.”
Irish chuckled. “What’ll happen if you run into him?”
Ivory stood up straight and exhaled. “I have to admit, I’m kinda weak for this one. That’s why I’ve distanced myself.”
Irish knew the feeling. Noble had quickly become her drug of choice. She wanted him every hour of the day if she could.
“Yeah, well, make sure you steer clear. I’m not paying all this money for college just for you to turn into a nigga’s baby mama. You got shit to do, little sister.”
“I know.” Ivory smiled. “Besides, don't act like my scholarship didn’t kick in and help.”
“You still picked the most expensive university in Miami.”
Ivory chuckled before shaking her head. “You know, Irish… I really, really appreciate you.”
“I know.”
“No, seriously, life would’ve been so much worse if I didn’t have you and Jovanis. Imagine that. Me being with Daisy, who did nothing but grieve her life away. You really saved my life.”
Irish cleared her throat, feeling so much emotion swarm her like bees. Ivory showed appreciation to her, but it was never to this magnitude. They never went into detail about their upbringing or their mother. Their way of coping was to move on and never look back. Irish wasn’t sure if that was a good thing or a detrimental one.
“Sis, I don't feel like ruining my lashes. Please don't.” Irish laughed.
Ivory smirked. “I just felt the need to tell you that. You’ve survived so much, and I really strive to be just like you when I get your age. I hope to meet the love of my life young just like you.Jovanis really loves you. I appreciate how he makes sure you have everything you need. You and Jovanis are goals.”
“No, we’re not.”
“Yes, you are. I've never seen you two argue or fight. There’s mutual respect you two have. When he looks at you, I see love. You really found a good husband, sis.”
What Ivory had described was what Irish felt for Noble not Jovanis. She had no clue that there was a limitation on the love she and him shared. It was platonic with a great amount of respect. The romantic aspect was absent. There had never been any butterflies or feelings that bloomed.
On the other hand, what Irish possessed with Noble was sacred. He had come in her life and gave her a new meaning. Love wasn’t just a word; it was an action with him. The last three months had been so blissful that Irish wished she had a remote control just so she could hit pause. She wanted to stay in the moment, basking in his presence and feeling every inch of what she had been chasing her entire life.
“I appreciate your kind words, Ivory, but you know you don't have to say all this to get that new schedule.”
Ivory laughed. “I am not trying to butter you up.”
“Yeah, okay.” She twisted her lips in doubt. “You swear you're slick but you're not.”
“Girl, bye.” Ivory flicked her hand.
“I’m about to walk down to the coffee shop. Do you want something?”
“No, I’m okay. I still have my frappé.”
Irish nodded, exiting the small storage facility. The Florida sun seared into her skin as she walked through the parking lot. She loved that her storage was in this area of thecity. The art district was where people could see the beauty of St. Parklynn. The graffiti-themed buildings offered an urban feel along with the parks and Black History Museum.
Irish walked toward the coffee shop when she spotted the stoplight booth near the corner. Ever since Clarice shared her experience, Irish was curious about it.
“Her ass was probably lying, acting like she got advice.”
As she drew near to it, her curiosity increased. She had some things to get off her chest, but she had never confided in a stranger. Her woes were always spilled on Jovanis’ lap. He was her GPS for all of her issues. Irish navigated through her childhood and bouts of depression by placing her issues on his shoulders.
“No, I’m good.” She shook her head, continuing to the shop.
