Page 41 of A Minute Past Midnight

“I listen to all types of music, baby. I just want to know what you want, and I got you.”

She stared at me for a long moment. “What if I don’t know what I want yet?”

“Then take your time.”

“Really?”

“Really.”

A small smile touched her lips.

I squeezed her hand. “But just know I’m hoping you eventually decide you want me.”

Her smile grew. “You’re something else.”

“I know.” I winked.

After breakfast, I stood and began collecting the dishes. “Go get dressed, beautiful.”

“For what?”

“We’re about to go to your place.”

Her eyebrows lifted. “Why?”

“You ask why a lot, Cinderella.” I shook my head, smiling at her. “So you can get some clothes, duh.”

She giggled. “Oh.”

“And after that, we’re going downtown.”

“For what?”

I looked over my shoulder at her.

She laughed again. “I'm sorry. I just be needing to know these things.”

“To sign the papers to ya new crib, mama.”

Her eyes widened. “Samir.” She stared at me before looking away.

I walked back over to her and placed my hands on either side of her face.

“Get dressed, Juliana.”

“But—”

“No buts.” I smiled. “Today, you’re going to get your clothes, then we’re going to sign those papers.”

Her eyes searched mine. “What if I’m not ready?”

I kissed her forehead. “Then you can take your time, but not too much time. You only got what? Six more months before lil’ shorty gets here.”

She smiled softly, and as I looked down at her, I realized something. I didn’t know what tomorrow would bring. I didn’t know if loving her would be easy.

Hell, I didn’t even know if she would eventually choose me, but I did know one thing: I was willing to give her every reason to do just that.

Two weeks seemed to go by quickly.