“Girl, if you don’t quit analyzing me.”
“I’m serious. You actually like him.”
“Maybe.”
“Ain’t no maybe. You’re getting dressed like this for him.”
Caresha glanced down at herself and smacked her lips. “I always look good.”
“You’re right, but this is intentional. Did you remember to get that coochie waxed like I told you? Who knows what the night may bring.”
“Bitch, please. Stop always clockin’ my cat. Ain’t nobody worried ‘bout fuckin’ but you.”
“Shut yo’ ass up.” Nivéa laughed, tossing a pillow at her.
Caresha laughed too, grabbing her purse as Nyla let out a tiny squeak in Nivéa’s arms. “TT look pretty?” She cooed, walking over to the baby. “Tell your mama to stop being in my business.”
Nivéa laughed as Nyla stared up at Caresha with wide eyes. “Tell her butt she’s in your business because she cares.” She kissed Nyla on the cheek.
“I know you do.” Caresha lifted her phone when it lit up, smiling at the message on the screen. “Come on, let me help you walk out. He’s outside.”
“Yes, ma’am,sister-in-law.” Nivéa replied sarcastically as she stood and gathered Nyla's things.
They shared another laugh as they headed out. Once outside, Danger hopped out of his car, spoke briefly, and helped her load Nyla into her car.
Nivéa couldn’t get into her G-Wagon fast enough before calling Crown. She pulled away, blushing as the phone rang. She couldn’t wait to share that Caresha and Danger were going on a date and how cute they looked together.
∞∞∞
A few hours later, after a movie and good food with drinks at a nice restaurant, Danger brought Caresha to the clubhouse with him. Everyone recognized her as Nivéa’s best friend and stood to greet her with warm hugs. They had come to see both women as family, thanks to their president, and that bond would remain, regardless of whether things got serious between her and Danger.
After speaking and slapping hands with everyone, Danger led Caresha upstairs to the rooftop, where it was quieter. The city lights twinkled beautifully around them as a warm night breeze brushed against her rich skin.
“I ain’t gon’ lie.” She admitted, glancing around. “I’m having a really good time tonight. I loved the movie and restaurant you picked.”
Danger leaned back in one of the lounge chairs, sipping his drink. “Me too. I wanna do this again, Ree.”
Caresha smiled as conversation flowed easily between them. They talked about everything…music, relationships, their childhoods, and her work drama. Nothing felt forced.
“So, what’s the timeframe the doctor gave you on your leg healing?” Caresha asked, keeping the conversation going as she sipped on her drink.
“Damn, my walk that fucked up that it’s bothering you?”
She laughed, realizing her question was random. “No, of course not. I’m just curious and genuinely concerned. I noticed you rubbing it when you sat down.”
“He said three to six months before it feels close to normal again.”
“Okay, that’s not bad. You’re lucky. It could’ve been worse.”
“Yeah, but I’m not tripping. It is what it is. As long as I can ride, I’m good.” Danger turned his attention to the thunder rumbling in the distance. “Shit, that rain's finally about to come down.”
“Yeah, and we’re some damn fools still sitting up here.”
He threw his arm around her. “We good. I won’t let nothin’ happen to you.”
“Mm-hmm, right. That lightning will come through and fry both of our asses. Your gun can’t get us out of that one.”
They shared another laugh as he took in her hair. “Your hair looks good. You did it, right?”