Another pause on the line, but longer this time.
“I’m not sayin’ I’m right?—”
“Nah, baby,” Gio said, cutting me off. “You may be onto something.”
My stomach tightened.
“But let me think on it,” he continued. “We gonna keep that between us, okay?”
“Okay, baby,” I responded.
We switched the subject to packing. I told him what I tried to get done and how I quit and hired movers and packers instead. He laughed at me.
“Do whatever makes it easier for you, baby. I don’t want you out there doing too much.”
I started to walk back to the crowds of people once our time was almost up. Before the call ended, Gio yelled out.
“I love you, Islah, more than anything. I don’t deserve you, but I’m glad I got you.”
Those words, that tone, it all put a smile on my face and gave me goosebumps.
The call hung up before I could respond, and I stared at the screen for a second, reminding myself it was all going to be over soon.
I went back to everybody and continued catching plays until I was all out. After Bully finished his game of spades, he dapped Kronic up, and I hugged him.
“Don’t be a stranger around these parts. With or without Gio, you are welcome.”
I nodded and headed to the car.
On the way home, I counted the money and felt at ease.
“I think I should be good for a lil’ bit until Gio comes home at least.”
“That’s what it’s all about. I’m glad you can chill now.”
I nodded and looked outta the window. The next few days are going to be all about getting into the new house, picking outfurniture, and choosing paint colors. The only shit I should have been doing.
I could finally see the apartment in the distance, and I felt relieved. I was tired and ready to pick up some food and slide to the hotel, but Bully pulled into the complex, and we saw somebody banging on my door again.
“What the fuck!” I blurted out.
“Who the fuck is that?” Bully asked, pulling into a parking spot.
“I don’t know, but it looks like the same bitch that was at my door earlier.”
Bully turned the car off, and we both hopped out at the same time.
“Bitch, who the fuck are you looking for?!” I yelled out, and she turned around.
“Oh shit!” Bully yelled out.
I looked at him, and he looked at me.
“Islah, go ahead and get outta here, sis. I know you are tired. I will handle this crackhead.”
I tilted my head at him, but his eyes were deadlocked on the bitch at my door.
I exhaled loudly. I was too tired to ask more questions.
