“What are you doing here?”
“This was all, Daddy,” Harmonie pointed out. “I realized a long time ago that you were selfish and dramatic.”
Frequency’s head sloped in her direction. The admiration that shined in his eyes was obvious to anyone looking at them. She checked him with her own gaze, annoyance but tolerance etched across her face. Harbor focused on Junior in her sister’s arms.
“We are kind of in the middle of something. But… if it’s okay with Frequency… I guess you can stay,” she reluctantly responded, giving him a pointed stare.
His shoulders relaxed, and he peered down at the baby in his arms. She seemed to be taking everything in, very calm and chill.
“What’s three more people when you invited everybody that Ivy knows,” Frequency relayed, and a playful smirk toyed with the corners of her mouth.
It was obvious that they were in tune with one another.
“She made the list,” Harbor pointed out, hands on her hips. “Speaking of, they just called up again. The guests are starting to check in.” She reached for the baby in his arms. “This one is ready to lie down with her brother for a nap. Celine will take care of them. Come on in. Make yourselves comfortable,” she told us.
“Yeah, not too fucking comfortable,” Frequency declared, stepping aside so that we could pass.
“You need to perk up. This is a party, Daddy.” She toyed with him, and a spark ignited in him.
It was clear that his weak spot was my daughter. Her place in his life had softened him.
“Harbor, you had a baby?” Harmonie was shocked.
“I had two,” she answered. “But I am sure your girl at the hospital probably told you that a while ago. I can introduce you later. Right now, they need to rest.” She started up the staircase, and Frequency watched after her.
“Don’t go lurking around my shit. Kitchen, living room, bathroom.” He pointed out all the places we were allowed to enter. “If I catch you outside of any of those areas other than the backyard, that’s ya ass,” he warned. “Have fun.” That last part he spoke with enthuse, and Harmonie studied him peculiarly.
“Let’s go.” I nudged her toward the kitchen. “I know you got a thing for men with big bank accounts and attractive looks, but do us both a favor and stay clear of Frequency. You understand?” I grit my teeth at her.
She was a hardheaded child, and it didn’t take much for her to get herself into trouble. I honestly felt like she went looking for it most of the time. Any kind of attention was good for Harmonie—good or bad.
“Daddy, what kind of woman do you think I am?”
“The kind that has no problem going tit for tat with anybody when she feels she has been wronged. This ain’t the time nor place for that right now, Harmonie.” We stepped into the kitchen together, and all eyes seemed to be on us.
“Hi,” a woman with brown hair and blonde highlights greeted us from the island counter.
“Hello.” I nodded.
“I’m sorry. I don’t think we’ve met.” Her forehead wrinkled, and she tilted her head at me questionably.
“I’m Harold, Lawson. Harbor’s father,” I introduced myself, and her brows went up with interest.
“Oh, wow. Nice to meet you. I’m Chevy, her business partner. And this is Ledge, my children’s father,” she noted, indicating the man beside her who stuffed his face with the appetizers were spread out.
“’Sup.” He gave me the nod and kept his focus on the food.
Something was familiar about him, and he tensed up a bit. It wasn’t something just anyone would notice, but with the line of work I was used to, I peeped everything.
“I’m just the sister,” Harmonie spoke up. “And this little guy is our baby brother.”
“Well, Harbor is like family.” Chevy smiled. “So welcome to the party. There are drinks, food, and rides outside. The birthday girl should be down soon to make her entrance.”
“We didn’t want to impose or anything. I had no idea an event was being thrown.”
“I don’t think anybody did. Harbor went all out for Ivy, but I’d expect nothing less from her.” I could tell that the love she had for my daughter was of a genuine place.
The natural smile that she carried said a lot.
