Page 33 of Bruised Hearts

“I what?”

“You won, damn! Cheating ass.” Laughing, Ariyah got up and did a dance.

“I didn’t cheat. All I said was if I win. You never put any stipulations on what could or couldn’t be done. Now, pick me up tomorrow at seven.” She climbed out of the ring and left out the gym as if I wasn’t on the floor in pain. A little while later, I opened my eyes and Titan was standing over me.

“Do I even want to know?”

“Nigga, do your job and get me up.”

“Oh, now you wanna beat my ass after she just knocked you the fuck out.” I reached out my hand and Titan pulled me off the floor.

“Keep on. You gone be doing mall security.” Grabbing my bag, I limped out and got in the car. Titan got in and pulled off.

“Imma marry her ass.” Smiling, I closed my eyes and thought about our date. I had no idea what I was going to do, but I knew I had to step. I was going to give her exactly what she needed.

20- Ariyah “Nova” Stevens

“How did you know what to wear if you don’t know where you’re going?” Charly was genuinely confused.

“That’s why you dress for any occasion. I have on some cargo joggers, a crop top, and sandals.” Charly went quiet, so I knew she didn’t approve of what I was wearing. “What’s wrong with what I got on?”

“Do you ever dress like a girl? You could have at least thrown on some heels. I’m almost there, maybe we will have enough time to find something else.”

“You know I don’t wear heels. Anyway, you sure you can’t tag along? A double date will be fun.”

“Your man is a millionaire. A regular date for him might cost thousands. He’s not about to embarrass my lil bus driver.” We both fell out laughing.

“Okay, I’m pulling up.” Hanging up the phone, I ran down the stairs to meet her. When I opened the door, Landon was climbing out of his car as well. They talked for a little bit, so I assume Charly was interrogating him. While they did that, I nervously tried to fix my clothes one last time. He walked up, and I immediately began to blush. Handing me flowers, he leaned in to kiss me.

“Hey, beautiful.” Smiling, I pushed my hair behind my ear before letting them in.

“Hey.”

“Well damn! Hey, bestie.” Laughing, I leaned in and hugged Charly.

“I just talked to you. Don’t do that.” She nudged me in my side as we walked behind Landon.

“He is much finer in person.” We giggled causing Landon to turn around.

“Am I missing something?” Grabbing his hand, I walked him around giving him a tour.

“I didn’t know we were having company?” Stone appeared out of nowhere causing Charly to roll her eyes. Landon approached him and stuck out his hand.

“I’m just here to pick Ariyah up for our date.” Stone shot me a look, but gave Landon a fake smile. “If you don’t mind, can we get together soon and go over some plans for our girl.” This changed Stone’s demeanor.

“Just let me know when, I’ll make time for you.”

“Sounds like a plan. We can link up and have a couple of drinks. You ready, beautiful?”

“Yup.”

“Okay, I’m going to get out you young folk’s hair. Have fun, and be safe.” Stone walked off and Charly looked impressed.

“Oh, you’re good. Call me later, Bestie. Well, if you don’t end up with your legs spread eagle in this Black American’s bed.” She gave me a kiss and left out. Landon looked confused as hell.

“Don’t ask.”

“Before we go, do I get to meet your mom?”