He called me disloyal and announced he was leaving for Accra. He was gone three days later.
In the vacuum left by his absence, I’ve had the chance to think about my own life and what my legacy would be if stayed here.
Even in his absence, his shadow in this town is long.
My client roster at the firm has ballooned in a matter of months because of my last name and the power it still holds in this town.
I’m as uncomfortable with it now as I was when I left the family fold to make my own way in the world. How did I end up back here?
It’s the least you owe your mother.
My phone buzzes and I grin when I see the name “TGlo” flash on the screen.
I lean back in my chair, cross my legs, and relax a little. Titus Glover is my oldest friend and former roommate.
He’s always good for perspective on life and women. I answer his video call with a smile on my face only to find myself looking at the ceiling of his office.
“Hey man. What’s up?” I ask and switch my camera off.
“There’s a position at DC AUSA that I think has your name written all over it.”
“What’s in it for you?”
“Well damn.” His face appears in the screen wearing a sad frown. “Can’t I just care about my friend’s career?” he protests.
“Iknowyou, remember?” I lean back in my chair and relax for the first time all day.
“I swear there’s no catch. The process is going to take nine months. You should apply because I know you’d be an asset.”
I’m touched. “Thank you. Sorry I’m such a cynic.”
“Well…you live in DC. It’s kind a survival skill. I can’t believe you moved back.”
I grimace at his words. I can’t believe it either. “When are you coming in for the holiday?”
“A couple days before. Is Lo coming, too?” he asks.
“Not that I know of. Did you invite her?”
“Nah bruh, that’s all you.” He puts on a mock London accent.
“No it’s not. I met someone,” I blurt before I can stop myself.
“Oh shit. Does Paloma know?”
No way. Not yet. “Why would I tell her?”
“She’s not over you.”
I laugh. “You’re way off base.”
“She hasn’t been in a relationship since you guys split. She talks about you all the time. I think she’s still in love with you.”
I laugh in disbelief. “She was never in love with me. Paloma Persaud only loves money, power, and great clothes.”
“Damn. That’s harsh,” he says.
“It’s true. She doesn’t date seriously because she wants to run for office one day. It has nothing to do with me. But if she’s on your mind so much, why don’t you date her?”
