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Now, at almost six feet tall, his previously slim runner’s build was replaced with a man who clearly lifted weights. He wasn’t super muscular, but the lightweight blue sweater he was wearing molded over his well-defined upper body and emphasized his broad shoulders. His hair was a little longer. Not quite an afro, but getting there, and the mustache and beard was neat but longer than she would’ve ever imagined he’d wear it.
“Well, if it isn’t the most beautiful ADA in the world,” he said by way of greeting, and hugged her.
“I see you’re still a sweet talker,” she said, grinning.
“I’m speaking the truth.” He leaned back slightly, and his gaze traveled the length of her. “You look amazing.”
“Thank you.”
If her skin was lighter, he’d be able to see her blushing. Now that she ran into him, Journey was glad she had opted to wear the red off-the-shoulder sweater dress that molded over her curves and her tall, knee-high black boots that demanded attention. All week, she dressed professionally in her designer suits, but her weekend attire gave her a chance to express her fun, carefree side.
“This is a pleasant surprise. When did you start hanging out at bars?” Tony asked, still eyeing her with interest.
“Actually, I don’t hang out often, but I’m meeting some friends here.” Not wanting to talk about herself, for fear he’d ask how her marriage was, she redirected the conversation. “How have you been? How’s business?”
They talked for a few minutes, and she listened as he told her how he was expanding his computer repair business. Journey was glad that he was doing well.
“So, are you seeing anyone?” she asked.
He had told her a lot about what was going on in his work life, but she was curious about his personal life. He had always wanted to get married, and she figured that, after they broke up, he would’ve found someone to settle down with.
His left brow lifted, and a crooked grin spread across his handsome face. “Why? Are you interested? Because if you’re—”
“I’m not,” she said quickly with a laugh. “I was just curious. That’s all.”
He laughed with her. “I’m messing with you. I know Laz would never let you go.”
He and Laz had met and were cordial, especially since they were both active withSave Our Boys, a nonprofit organization.
Tony had been on the board of directors for years. The nonprofit focused on young men from age fourteen to twenty-five who came from violent and abusive households, providing them needed guidance in life. It also supported those whose families had been ripped apart by drugs and addiction. The organization successfully got the boys off the streets and into apprenticeships and other career programs. Laz had been volunteering for the last few years and wholly supported their mission.
“And to answer your question about me being in a relationship, I am. It’s fairly new, but I’m hopeful.”
Journey nodded. “Well, I wish you all the best.”
Tony’s smile grew as he looked past Journey, and she turned to see who had caught his attention. She groaned inside as her college nemesis approached them. Tamar Warner, wearing a gorgeous white suit that hugged her curves, made her way toward them, looking like she had just stepped off the cover ofVogue.
No one could ever say the woman wasn’t a beautiful sister. Her hair—which was fake—cascaded down in waves over one shoulder. The style accentuated her ebony face that looked professionally made up, and her confident walk snagged just as much attention as Journey’s had when she walked in.
Tamar’s steps faltered when she saw Journey, but she quickly recovered. She plastered on that familiar fake smile, the one she used when she was in the public’s eye as a city councilwoman. Journey saw her out and about more lately since she was gearing up to run for the US Senate.
“Hey, boo,” Tamar said, stepping around Journey and placing a quick kiss on Tony’s lips.
Interesting. Journey hadn’t seen that coming, but considering the way Tony lit up at the sight of Tamar, he was definitely taken with the barracuda.
“Journey, it’s been a while,” Tamar said by way of greeting, looking her up and down. “You look…the same.”
Journey laughed. She wouldn’t have expected any other comment from the woman. Tamar had always been jealous of her. They had attended law school together, and there was always some not-so-friendly competition between them. And while Journey had gone on to pass the bar, as far as she knew, Tamar never did. Instead of going into law, she opted for politics.
“Oh, and don’t worry, I’m not making moves on yourboo,” Journey said, struggling not to laugh. The term of endearment wasn’t one she used often, but its false trendiness seemed to suit Tamar. “And on that note, I’d better get to my friends. Tony, it’s always great seeing you.”
“Same here, Journey,” Tony said with his arm around Tamar. “Oh, and I hope to see you and Laz at theSave Our Boysfundraiser Saturday.”
“We’ll be there,” she said and turned to leave, unsure if that was true.
Laz wasn’t a big black-tie-affair type of person, but that was one event they usually attended annually. They had their tickets, but right now, she wasn’t sure of much when it came to her and Laz.
Finally, she reached Dani’s office. They probably would’ve used one of the party rooms, but Dani had already rented them out. Instead, she offered up her office. Journey hadn’t cared where they met as long as there was alcohol and food. She was craving both.
