AllFreeNovel
Share Us
Elite’s head shook as he left the mall. “He wasn’t trying to talk about you; he was trying to get us back together.”
Jacintha sighed heavily. “I told him not to do that, Elite. I’m sorry.”
“It’s cool. I wasn’t worried about that. Can’t no nigga make me do shit I don’t want to do.”
“Then what made you want me to call?”
“I’m not comfortable with how he’s tryna handle you, Jah,” Elite confessed, looking around the parking lot for row E. “I know that’s your dad, but he treats you like you’re a little fucking kid. He’s convinced you need a husband to live, and we both know that’s the last thing you need right now.”
“You’re right. I keep telling him I need some time to myself, but he’s not trying to hear that.”
“I see that. I just wanted to see where your head was at. Make sure he hasn’t changed your mind about staying single and focusing on yourself.”
She laughed softly. “After everything we’ve been through… you still care about me?”
Elite paused in front of his Bronco. “I will always care about you, Jah. My love ain’t conditional. Ain’t shit you can do to stop it.”
“But I did stop you from actually giving it to me in a relationship?”
“Yeah.”
“I’m at peace with that, and I’m even more at peace knowing we can talk and be here for each other.” She paused, and he imagined her smiling sweetly. “I know I can’t expect to always be a priority in your life, but…”
“I got you until we’re in committed relationships.”
“Don’t tell me that. I’ll stay single forever.” Elite laughed as he got inside. “I’m just playing.”
“It was good to hear your voice, Jacintha.”
“You too. How… How are you?”
Instead of starting the ignition and heading out, Elite kept the door open to feel the breeze so he could continue to talk to Jacintha.
“I’m making it. How are you?”
“Same. Alicia told me you’ve been checking in with them. I appreciate that.”
“It’s all love.”
“Elite?” she called quietly.
“Yeah?”
She sniffled. “I’m really sorry, baby.”
Sealing his eyes shut, Elite shook his head. “You ain’t got to say that every time we talk. If talking to me makes you feel bad about yourself…”
“I have to stand on what I feel. That’s the only way I can make sure I never do it again.”
Hearing her say shit like that…
“Aye, I gotta go, Jah.”
“Why?” she almost whined.
“Because if I keep talking to you, I’ma start to feel shit I don’t need to.”
“Like what?”
