Page 221 of Worth the Trip

Malcolm lifted his cup. “You dismissing me?”

“I’m reminding you that somebody pays you to do something besides bother women at ice cream booths.”

“So you concerned about my employment now?”

“Malcolm.”

His brows rose. “See? You already using my name.”

“Go.”

“Aight, Coco.”

Her face changed immediately. “Who is Coco?”

“You.”

“My name is Nyla.”

“I know.”

“Then use it.”

“I will.”

“And Coco?”

He took another spoonful, looking far too pleased with himself. “Still staying.”

“Based on what?”

“Don’t know yet.”

“That makes no sense.”

“It will.” Before she could respond, he stepped backward. “See you later, Nyla.”

“That sounded presumptuous.”

“Nah. Hopeful.”

He turned toward the field.

My sister watched him for exactly one second too long.

I leaned against the counter.

“Coco?”

“Noli.”

“I’m just making sure I heard correctly.”

“You heard nothing.”

“I definitely heard the beginning of a nickname.”

“You’re about to hear the beginning of a threat.”