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“Ahh, so he’s pouting.”
She smiled. “Dealing with his separation issues not pouting.”
“You call it what you want. The man is spoiled and doesn’t like to share.”
“You two are one in the same. I fear for any woman who falls victim to your handsome charms.” Jhorie was the first thought I had but I pushed it aside when Cress asked, “You’re coming to the show, right?”
“I’ll be there. Elias will be a single parent again. He might need help with this beauty.”
“Cute and not funny. I’m very active in my kids’ lives, Ez.”
“You are but it grates his nerves when we say that to him. I love fucking with my brother.”
“We’ll have a sitter for the night. He and I are going to dinner to celebrate after the show. You’re welcome to join us.”
“I don’t want to be a third wheel.”
“Then bring a date. You are aware you can do that now, right?” She arched a brow, reaching for her daughter but I pulled back and kissed Ava several times before I handed her over.
“I am and when someone catches my attention I will, but for now…”
Cress rolled her eyes. “You know, in order for someone to catch your eye, you have to actively pay attention to those admiring you.”
I smirked and kissed Cress’s cheek before heading to the stairs. “I’m aware and I assure you, when it’s time, I’ll be fully engaged. Stop worrying about me, Cress,” I tossed over my shoulder as I ascended the stairs.
“Hard to when you won’t do it yourself and you’re not the dating or single kind. You’re happier when your life is organized which means a full commitment. You need a wife. Good night, Ez.”
“Night, Cress.”
There was so much truth in her words that I felt the weight of them on my shoulders. Although I hadn’t been pleased about marrying a woman I hadn’t chosen for myself, I loved the idea of marriage. Knowing there was one person I could always depend on and trust settled something in me. Sasha hadn’t provided that. She’d never loved me, never wanted me. As much as I’d attempted to make the most of our situation she had not.
When I reached the main level of the east wing, which I now occupied alone, I stepped into my room and yanked at my tie. I crossed the open space, heading toward the closet. I laid my tie on the island and removed my watch, placing it next to the case, too exhausted to properly put it away. I stripped out of the rest of my clothes, placing them into a basket for housekeeping.
In only my briefs I moved back through my room to the bathroom. I started the shower and leaned against the counter to make a quick call.
“Good evening, Mr. Omari, what can I do for you?” Elizabeth answered cheerfully. I knew she was likely not happy about me calling so late. I typically tried to provide my employees standing office hours. For the most part, it worked. However, Elizabeth was in charge of my schedule so she occasionally received after hours calls and tasks. I paid her well so she didn’t complain to my face, but often sensed when she wasn’t pleased.
“Good evening, Elizabeth. I need you to clear my schedule for tomorrow.”
“Your entire schedule?” Her voice elevated which was understandable. My schedule often required strategic planning considering how busy I was and fitting everyone into their prospective places wasn’t always easy. I knew of three meetings I had scheduled for tomorrow, very important meetings that would have to wait. My plans had recently changed or should I say my priorities had shifted a little.
“Yes, my entire schedule. I’ll need the entire day free of distraction.” Going door-to-door speaking with residents wouldn’t be an all-day task but Jhorie was, which meant I wanted to be at her disposal.
I wouldn’t tell her that nor would I admit it to Elizabeth. She would assume I had lost my mind. Going door-to-door to be in touch with the community wasn’t a far stretch from something expected of me. I hadn’t lied when I’d told Jhorie I was connected to the peoples’ lives who lived in Crescent Manor. Dropping important business meetings in order to do so would send up red flags and alarms.
“Oh, that’s going to be difficult.”
“Are you insinuating you can’t handle the task?”
Her voice elevated once more. “No… I’ll take care of it. Should I reach out to you before I reschedule everything or…?”
“The only person I want a heads up on before you reschedule is Kyce Jefferson. If rescheduling disrupts him too much then offer a call instead of in person. If that doesn’t work, let me know.”
Most of my day was filled with people who wanted something from me. They could wait. I’d reached out to Kyce to see if he would be willing to offer his expertise with Loyd for those kids interested in football. I had several other athletes who had graciously agreed to assist. JV as boxing coach, Jabari Hicks and Meyer Camden with Royals for basketball training. I had also secured Lamont Day to teach culinary arts. I wanted all opportunities imaginable to be available.
“Yes, sir, anything else?”
“That’s it for now.”
