Page 62 of When It’s All Said And Done

“Because I was cheatin’ on my boyfriend with you.”

“All that nigga had was a title. The moment I came home I had yo’ heart no matter how hard you continued to fight it. ‘Cause answer me this: were you fuckin’ that nigga after I hit the first time?”

“No.”

“Then no I don’t need no fuckin’ test. Now restart the movie so we can watch it soon as I come back from the bathroom.”

I eased up from behind before going to the bathroom. Aside from hiding Nyla, Nessa ain’t never lied to me before. So, her word that she wasn’t having sex with Desmond after I came home was all I needed. When I think about it, she didn’t technically lie about Nyla because I just didn’t know about her. After I relieved my bladder, I washed my hands before grabbing my phone.

Me:

Package secured. Family reunion soon?

Nina:

Protect the package. And no family reunion until after the holidays.

Me:

Are you sure?

Nina:

Yes, review the family tree until then because new year means new reunion.

Me:

Bet.

Exiting the bathroom, I was surprised that Nina wanted to wait until the new year to move on Juan. A part of me was happy to be able to have this little breather, but I was going to look over all the stuff I still had to see if I’m able to catch something we missed. When I rounded the corner, I stopped in my tracks as I watched Nyla and Nessa interact. As a man this was such a rewarding moment to see the two of them interact so carefree. Nyla looked up and our eyes connected before she ran over to me.

“Daddy!” Nyla exclaimed as I lifted her into the air.

“Baby Girl,” I beamed with much pride before placing her on my back. “You just abandoned yo’ mama like she was a sack of potatoes.”

“I’m sorry, Mommy. I was excited to see my Daddy.”

“It be ya own people,” Nessa faked hurt. “That’s why I didn’t even tell you because I already know that I’ma get treated like chopped liver when yo’ dad around.”

“I smell a hater,” I teased. “Don’t hate the playa, hate the game.”

“Y’all can have each other. I’m goin’ to go take a soak while you watch Princess and The Frog with her for the millionth time,” Nessa smirked before walking away.

“Mommy just don’t know that’s actually one of my favorite movies,” I explained to Nyla.

“Really?! Mine too!”

“How ‘bout I make us some popcorn while we watch it?”

“Yes, Daddy, please!”

“I’ll be right back my little princess.”

Chapter 21

Nessa

“With everything goin’ on it feels like the year just flew by because how is Christmas tomorrow?” I sighed in disbelief as I seasoned the meat for tonight.