Lemme talk to you, tell you how it is!
I got friends and you got friends:
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I be on my Chris Brown old-school ish.
Other than that… let's get it poppin'.
Disclaimer: I do not own any part of Aaron McGruder's The Boondocks or any of his characters.
"You think ignorance is cute? Well, I suppose you think you think mental retardation is downright adorable…. How is anyone supposed to believe you can make lemonade when you can't even spell it? How old are you?"
"T-t-ten-"
"T-t-too damn old to be writing your e's backwards, dammit!"
Ed Wuncler Sr. and Jazmine Dubois; The Block Is Hot
Riley's POV
This girl better not start bitchin' when she wake up.
Riley stifled his yawn as he shrugged on his leather jacket, glancing back at the bed over his shoulder. Cindy faced away from him, her body sprawled out tiredly. Homegirl was probably worn out. Not to mention it was barely 6 AM on a Saturday morning.
And they did have a bit of a long night.
He liked it when she moaned and panted like that. Like she could barely handle it. He also liked when she cried his name, slowly and repeatedly. That distinct sound of desire in her voice was something he was starting to crave more and more often.
But there was one other sound he loved even more. It was rare. It was brief. Because she resisted as much as she could. But when she did do it, there was nothing that could promote a bigger smirk from him.
The way she begged for him was like an auditory drug.
"Please." Cindy breathed as Riley continued to eat her out slowly. "Oohh… aahh… Reezy please…." She repeated, the second time laced with more needing in her voice.
Riley's lips upturned against her own, giving her a low moan of approval as he licked. "Whatchu need, baby?" He murmured, meeting her strong gaze.
"You." She answered, then gasped at the sudden pressure of Riley's tongue against her spot, hard. "Reezyyy, please. Now." She both demanded and whined in the same breath.
Riley's smirk grew as he ignored her request, continuing to have his way with her. Only now, he intensified it by the pace and pressure of his movements, making her almost borderline scream. He gripped tighter onto her thighs to hold her in place, she was squirming so damn much.
"Reezy-Reezy-Reezy," Cindy chanted his name breathily. Riley could already feel her legs starting to shake. "Reezy I… I-I'm…." She barely managed, her breathing escalating rapidly.
The clues were more than enough for Riley.
Before she had even finished her sentence, Riley lapped at her once more before lifting his head, shifting his body upwards, and swiftly sliding himself into Cindy.
She screamed his name, turning him on even more as he started attacking her neck with kisses and bites. Cindy dug her nails hard onto his bare shoulders and back; he knew he'd be all the way scratched up in the morning. But he didn't care. It felt so fucking good while he pumped inside her.
"Yes... yes... I'm almost there!" Cindy moaned out, digging her nails in harder and pulling herself closer against him. Riley hissed at the pleasurable pain it caused and sucked more along her neck as he increased his speed. Shit, he was almost there too.
It was only a few short moments before Riley heard Cindy's rapid breathing catch in her throat as she made her signature gasp, signaling her orgasm. Riley continued to quickly pump into her, following her example several seconds after. With a heavy grunt and sigh, he gently collapsed on top of her and held her close. Cindy's arms and legs voluntarily wrapped around him.
"Did you have a condom on?" She whispered shakily, still on a high.
"Yeah, baby. It was on way before I went inside you." Riley murmured against her cheek before kissing it.
"Thank you." She sighed in relief.
"Thank you." He weakly smirked, starting to kiss down her neck again over the places he'd bitten.
"Did you give me any hickeys?" Cindy asked hazily, probably already starting to fall asleep. Riley was quickly doing the same.
"Naw." He yawned, kissing in one more spot before nuzzling in and passing out.
"Shit." Riley muttered, now back at the bed as he looked down at a sleeping Cindy. He had jacked her neck up with bite marks. She was gonna wake up and kill his ass.
Good thing he would already be out.
Not that he didn't want to sleep in more, but when he woke up at random around 4:30 in the morning, he had a hard time going back to sleep. He laid in bed for about a half hour before he got up, hopped in the shower, and got out to gather his things. He wouldn't mind sleeping in his own bed once he got home. Besides, he had other shit going on that day. He couldn't be holed up with Cindy for most of it, which was very tempting to do.
It had been nearly three weeks since they had hooked up again, the night Cindy went to that nigga's apartment. It had been good, and it was obvious that they both had definitely missed it. Though the words had never been officially spoken and they hadn't formally addressed it, they were back on after that night. Shit was good again in Riley's world. Granted, things weren't perfect and they still had their typical on-and-off days, but more often than not, things were pretty smooth between them.
And more often than not, Riley made his way into Cindy's bed by the end of the night.
"Later, C." Riley spoke as quietly as he could with a smirk. Somehow he figured, as long as he verbally said it, he was still saying goodbye. Even if she wasn't awake to hear it…. That wasn't his fault though.
He leaned down and kissed one of the five bruises he'd left on the side of her neck before standing upright again. After switching off her bedside light, he quietly left her room and pulled the door shut behind him.
Hopefully she wouldn't be too pissed at him.
Cindy's POV
No this nigga didn't.
Cindy glared at the empty space beside her. She didn't hear any television or noise from the living room, no footsteps in the hallway, and no running water from the bathroom.
His ass had done the dip… again.
Cindy didn't consider herself to be a sensitive bitch. Not in the slightest. And if it had been a random guy after a one-time hookup, she would have preferred him gone by the time she woke up. That or she'd escort herself out.
But it wasn't some random guy. It was Reezy, her so-called best friend. He should at least have the decency to tell her goodbye. Not just bounce and make her feel like a….
Cindy rolled over in frustration, trying to unsuccessfully subside her train of thoughts. Last night had been good for them. In fact it had been one of their better nights. Ever since they'd become "involved" with each other again, things seemed to be rockier than before. They either were really good or really bad; there was no in-between. Cindy found herself frequently wondering why they were still entertaining this situation. Riley had been continuing to push her to the limit with his disrespect, his attitude, and his overall act of entitlement. Why the hell was this nigga acting brand new all of the sudden? And why the hell was Cindy even going along with it anymore?
…Because when things are good between us… things are good.
Not just the sex in general, but everything. There were these rare moments Cindy experienced with Riley. Moments that left her wondering if the idea of "them" was something of potential worth. Like the way he would look at her. Not always, but there were certain times when he would look at her differently when they were alone. It was softer in a way. But at the same time, his gaze could be so intensive, as if all of his attention was focused on her. Cindy couldn't explain it.
Then there was the way it felt when their bodies touched. It was strange. Cindy had known Riley for roughly eleven years, the majority of her life. Until recently, she had never known him to have even a remote level of intimacy. Ever. His new interactions with her were completely surprising, and they completely confused the hell out of her. Reezy suddenly had a gentleness with her in the way he held her in his arms, the way he caressed all over her body, and the way he kissed her. It left Cindy re-evaluating a lot about them. Now even when they hung out as just friends, even in front of their crew, Cindy still felt that faint hint of tenderness when they were together.
And then the sex… God, Cindy couldn't get over the sex. She hated clichés with a passion, but she couldn't deny it: they had a connection… a "spark" maybe. When they were together, they were in sync. It was almost surreal how in-tune they were with each other's bodies. Riley knew what she needed without evening asking, and vice versa. Not only that, but Cindy just felt differently being with Riley than she ever had with anyone else. What they had in their moments together was… special.
Special? Cindy wrinkled her nose at her rambling thoughts, thoughts that were getting a little too carried away in her opinion. Yes, what they had was… something, but Cindy didn't want to confuse the situation for what it really was. They weren't making love. They weren't a "them" or any type of unified couple. They were friends who fucked, plain and simple. That was the deal and that's what she was sticking with. The rules were made for a reason, and Cindy didn't want to lose sight of them.
Cindy finally sat up in bed and ran her hands through her hair. She'd had more than enough time to think that morning. Lifting her phone from the nightstand, she lit up her screen and almost did a double-take. It was nearly noon.
"Damn." She mumbled, swinging her legs off the side of the bed. She didn't work that day, thank God, but still. She hated wasted time.
Cindy slowly stretched her arms over her head as she yawned, loving how completely rested she felt. She slipped one of her oversized night shirts over her naked body before sluggishly heading towards her bathroom. She couldn't wait to take a steaming hot shower.
Flicking on the light as she passed, she walked to the sink and turned on the water as she rubbed her eye. Make-up from the day before must've gotten in it since she had forgotten to take it off. Leaning over, she cupped her hands with warm water and splashed her face gently to lightly cleanse it. After she rubbed her eyes clear, she opened them and made eye contact with herself in the mirror. Then her eyes widened and directed themselves lower on her reflection… to her neck….
"What the fuck?!"
Riley's POV
"So where we headin' after this?"
"I don't know, you tell me."
Riley smirked at her response, shrugging a shoulder lightly. He was currently sitting across the table from Tish at one of the downtown restaurants. After Riley had left Cindy's place, he had gone home and slept for awhile. He awoke with a text from Tish, requesting him to join her for lunch. He had talked to her the day beforehand and she had tossed around the idea that she might be free the following day, but no concrete plans had been made. Riley was initially frustrated that he'd have to drive all the way back the way he came, but then decided on working some overtime after they were done hanging out.
Besides… it had been a minute since he and Tish had "hung out."
"I was thinkin' your place." Riley suggested casually.
"Fine by me." She agreed before sipping her sparkling water.
"You down to roll when we get there?" Riley implied with a look as he lowered his voice a bit.
Tish gave him a sly grin. "What do you think?"
"Aw shit, you already got some?" He smirked as she winked. "Damn girl."
"I know a few people."
"Apparently." Riley grinned. He was about to ask if she could hook him up with said people, but was interrupted when his phone vibrated loudly on the table beside him.
Cindy's name and face lit up his screen…. Shit.
Riley cleared his throat as he swiftly silenced the vibration and flipped his phone over. "So anyway, who are your connections, girl?" He asked, leaning his crossed arms on the table.
"Mine." Tish answered, her eyes still focused on his now face-down phone.
"It's like that though?" Riley leaned down slightly to make eye contact with her, attempting to draw her attention away from the phone. "You really ain't gonna hook a nigga up?"
Tish finally met his gaze and smirked. "Not just yet, honey."
"You cold, ma." Riley playfully huffed. Just as she opened her mouth in response, the phone vibrated again off the table.
Dammit! Riley thought with an irritated growl, reaching over to quickly silence it again.
"Aren't you gonna get that?" Tish asked pointedly, her gaze directly on the phone.
"Nah, whoever it is, they can wait."
Tish raised an eyebrow calmly. "You sure Cindy can wait?"
Riley paused in surprise. "Uh, how you know it's her?"
"I saw her face on the screen before you turned your phone over." She explained smoothly. "She must really need you."
"I doubt it." He muttered in return. "The second call or text probably wasn't even from her." He added, right before his phone starting vibrating again.
"Or that one?" Tish smirked.
"Goddammit." Riley grabbed his phone from the table and flipped it over. There were two missed calls from Cindy and the last buzz had just been a text from her that read:
NIGGA I WILL BURN UP YOUR DAMN BATTERY IF YOU DON'T FUCKING ANSWER ME
"Everything alright?" Tish asked innocently, feeding herself a bite of her salad.
"Everything's… great." Riley shifted his jaw as Cindy started calling again, before he could even think of a reply. "You know what, 'scuse me for one sec." He said as he slid out of the booth. "I'll be right back."
"Take your time." Tish smirked as she let out a light chuckle. Riley waited until he was a bit away from their table and near the front of the restaurant before picking up.
"Hello?" He answered expectantly.
"WHAT THE HELL IS THE MATTER WITH YOU?!" Cindy shouted into the phone, making Riley hold the phone away from his ear and turn down the volume.
"YO, what?" Riley demanded, trying to restrain himself from shouting and drawing attention. "What are you talkin' about?"
"What am I talking about?" Cindy echoed. "How about the fuckin' bruises you left on my neck? Do you not realize that I work and how unprofessional that looks? Not even that, but just in general! It makes me look like a damn slut, Riley! Why the fuck would you do that? I can barely cover these with makeup, they're so bad!"
Riley could understand why she was upset, but it's not like he had done it on purpose. He had just gotten caught up in the moment. But to call and harass his phone four times about it, like he could snap his fingers and fix it instantly was a little extreme.
And damn, she was still going on about it in his ear.
"That's probably why you left so damn early, isn't it? Had to get the hell out before I woke up and noticed. Was it really that hard to tell me goodbye like a normal human being?"
"I went home because I had plans today, C. I couldn't stay there with you all day." He finally spoke, attempting to remain calm.
"Nigga, I didn't ask you to stay." Cindy snapped back. "But I've told you before that I'd like you to at least say goodbye and you still continue to walk out. It's fucking rude."
"My bad, Cindy." Riley replied through his gritted teeth. "Like I said, I had things to do."
"Like what?"
"Girl just… stuff, damn!" Riley replied in frustration. "I'm runnin' around now and then later I'm working overtime down at the shop."
"So basically what you're telling me is that right now you're not doing anything important?"
"I didn't fucking say that." Riley uttered lowly, getting very annoyed with the back and forth.
"You said you're 'running around.' That doesn't sound urgent, which means you could've taken the two seconds to say literally ONE word. Is a goodbye really that hard to do?"
"Girl, you-"
"ORDER UP!"
Riley flinched at the announcement. He hadn't realized he was standing that close to the chef's window where he was placing finished orders for the waitresses to deliver.
"Oh, so you're at Luke's?" Cindy spoke again, naming the restaurant. There was a lot of accusation in her voice that Riley didn't like.
"Yeah, so?"
"Must mean I'm interrupting a date." She scoffed.
"How the hell do you figure?" Riley snapped in bewilderment.
"Because you would've just told me if you were out with your boys otherwise."
"And I could just be getting an order for my damn self." Riley shot back.
"Okay one: you've never once eaten at restaurant by yourself. Two: you already said you went home, so I highly doubt you came all the way back this way for Luke's. And three: once again, you would've just told me. Not try to hide it with the 'running around' bullshit." She practically sneered. Then she scoffed again.
"I don't fucking care if you're on a damn date, Reez. Just be real and don't lie about it. I don't give a shit what you do. I'll let you get back to her."
Click.
Riley pulled the phone from his ear and looked the screen that read, Call Ended.
No she fucking didn't.
Riley didn't even know what to think or do about the situation as he stared at his phone. What the fuck was her problem? She was trippin' mad hard.
He slid his phone in his front pocket as he headed back to the table, willing himself to put it out of his head for now. She just needed to calm the hell down. He'd handle her later, but she was not going to ruin his time with Tish.
Fuck dat.
"Sorry 'bout that, girl." He apologized as he slid back into the booth. Tish was waiting with her chin in her hand as her elbow rested on the table. Riley couldn't pinpoint the look on her face. "Soo, where were we?"
Tish blinked at him, the hint of a smirk on her lips. "We were talking about rolling before your other girl hit you up."
"My other girl?" Riley chuckled lightly, trying to brush it off. "Whatchu mean?"
"What do you call her then? I mean, she's clearly blowing up your phone with calls and texts. I could practically hear her loud-ass voice from over here." She grinned with an eyeroll.
Riley must've given her a questionable look at the comment because she quickly recovered. "No disrespect, of course. I've had her in a few of my classes so I know her tone. And not that I'm not loud myself, I'm just sayin'. I'd know her voice anywhere." She downplayed with a shrug.
"…I guess." Riley shrugged as well, not really sure where the conversation was going anymore. It was silent for a moment while Tish took a sip of her water, holding his gaze the entire time. When she swallowed, she pursed her lips slightly.
"Can I ask you a question?" She asked calmly.
Riley had a feeling he wouldn't like it, but nodded once anyway. "Sure."
"Are you fucking her?"
Riley's eyes practically doubled in size. He was really glad he hadn't decided on taking a bite of anything, he probably would've choked.
"What?" He exclaimed, his voice cracking slightly.
Tish smirked. "You're fucking her." She replied, as a statement this time. "Don't worry. I'm not mad."
"Yo, what… where is this even coming from?" Riley could barely get his words out. Because what the actual fuck?
"Come on, Esco. I'm not a fool. And it's obvious." Tish responded, giving him a look.
"How?"
"A woman just knows, baby." Tish answered coolly. "Besides, it's not like I'm intimated or threatened by it. And it's not like you're the only one that I've been with recently." She added with a chuckle.
Riley just stared at her, not really sure how to take anything that was coming out of her mouth. She acted completely unbothered by it all. Which seemed completely unnatural in his opinion.
But damn she was down.
"I wonder if I'll see her around anytime soon." Tish mused, twirling a lock of hair around her finger.
But that finally snapped Riley out of his speechlessness.
"Aye, this is somethin' that's gotta stay between us." He told her seriously.
"So it's true?" She smirked again. Riley nodded silently, his face still neutral. "What's the big deal, Esco?" She asked playfully.
"It ain't a big deal, but… it's just something I'd rather keep private, dig?"
"She doesn't know you're fucking me, huh?" Her smirk widened. "That's cute."
"It ain't even about that, yo." Riley rolled his eyes. "I just don't want no drama bullshit, aiight?"
"Hate that shit." She winked.
"Mhm." Riley rolled his eyes again, but this time with a smirk. "I'm serious, ma. I'm asking you for real. Keep this between us. And if you do happen to run into Cindy, don't even go there. She don't need to know. At least not yet."
"Whatever you say, Esc." Tish chuckled, scooping the last bite of her salad into her mouth.
"I need to hear you say it." Riley pressed, giving her a look. "Tell me you ain't gonna say nothin' to her."
Tish looked at him carefully as she chewed. Then she used her finger to draw and imaginary X over her heart. After she finally swallowed, she smirked.
"Promise." She practically sang with another wink.
Riley didn't know how true she would be judging by the playfulness behind the "promise", but he could only wish for the best and pray their paths wouldn't cross anytime soon. Tish and Cindy together were a volatile combination. And as much as Riley knew his best friend, she could be unpredictable as hell, especially when she was pissed. Not that it wouldn't be hot if they both fought over him, but Cindy was the type of bitch to fight anyone involved, including Riley. And that wasn't a good look.
Speaking of, what the hell was he gonna do about her? She needed to cool herself off first, that much was obvious. Talking to her was useless when she was all worked up and pissy. He'd have to see about her ass later after he was done with work.
…And after he was done with Tish.
Cindy's POV
She was just starting to drift off to sleep. After her obnoxious day, it was something she had been looking forward to, but unfortunately her mind wasn't cooperating. It took her three tall glasses of wine to finally shut her brain up and start to fade.
She just wanted a do-over. Maybe then Riley wouldn't have been a jerk. Maybe she wouldn't have called him and realized he was on a date. Maybe she would've never gone on her own date.
Maybe I just have a way of attracting shitty-ass guys. Cindy thought groggily. The events from her earlier "date" hazily replayed over in her head. Rob had seemed like a cool guy from the times she had interacted with him at the gym. He was a regular and frequently made a point to talk to Cindy anytime he saw her. In her eyes, he had seemed funny, charismatic, and didn't look half bad either. Last week he had offered to take her out during the weekend for drinks once he got off work. At that time, Cindy was actually feeling hopeful. Maybe it would go well. Maybe there'd be future dates. Maybe this guy had potential.
No chance in hell.
It had gone just as Cindy would've expected had she been realistic with herself. Her "date" with Rob was no date. It was just a flimsy try at getting her in bed. That much was obvious from the first ten minutes together. Cindy had wasted so much time in trying to cover up her hickeys with makeup and by rifling through her closet to find the perfect lace high-collar top. Rob's eyes had barely ever left her chest to even notice.
What an ass.
Cindy felt herself continuing to slip, completely done with her thoughts of men for the night. Somehow through her last moments of consciousness, she faintly heard noises coming from the other room. Too tired to make sense of it, she continued to drift to sleep.
For all of about thirty seconds.
Much to her utter confusion, she suddenly felt the feeling of heavy weight coming from the other side of the bed behind her.
"What?" She mumbled, right before an arm wrapped around her body. "Hey!" She was suddenly more awake by the rhythm of her increasing heart rate.
"Calm down baby, it's just me." The familiar voice said near her ear, prompting her to swing her head around and look at him.
"Reezy, what in the hell?" Cindy demanded, struggling out of his grasp to flip around. He was propped up on his side in just a pair of black boxers, like it was perfectly normal. "What are you doing in here and how in the hell did you get in?"
"You keep your key under your mat, babe." He rolled his eyes in response.
"What. Are. You doing here?" She repeated herself slowly.
"I just came to see you, C." He said openly, making Cindy raise a brow. "I know I pissed you off earlier, twice actually, and I wanted you to know that I'm sorry. I just came over to check on you and talk about it." He shrugged.
She stared at him. "You came over to talk at… 1:30 in the morning?"
"What?"
"Sounds more like a booty call." Cindy muttered, glancing away.
"I mean, it sounds bad when you say it like that. And that's not what I originally came for, but if you want it to end that way-"
"Reezy, I can't do this right now." Cindy cut him off, shaking her head. "I had a long-ass day and I'm tired. I just want to go to bed." She told him before lying back down, rolling over, and closing her eyes.
"What happened?" He asked, sliding closer to her from behind. She could feel him looking down at the side of her face.
I went on a date too, ass. She wanted to say out of spite, just to throw in his face. But she didn't even want to go there.
"Nothing." She mumbled instead, choosing to keep her eyes shut. She felt Riley lean down closer to her face for some reason, which prompted her to open an eye at him.
"You been drinkin', girl?" He gave her a look.
"So what?" She retorted with an eyeroll before shutting her eyes again. She heard him sigh.
"You really don't wanna talk?"
"That's what I said."
"…That ain't like you, girl."
"You're gonna have to deal with it."
"Damn C, I said I was sorry!"
"Just forget it, Reezy. I don't even care anymore."
"'Just forget it?'" He repeated incredulously.
"Yes."
"You and I know damn well that ain't how you operate. There is no 'just forget it' with you. Now what's up?"
"Dammit Reezy!" Cindy complained, finally opening her eyes and rolling slightly to look up at him. "I told you, I can't do this right now. I'm tired. I'm drunk. I'm so over this day. Just please… let me go to bed." She pleaded. Riley held her gaze for several moments before nodding slowly.
"Fine. I'll drop it."
"Thank you." Cindy said in relief, closing her eyes and rolling back over. "I'll see you later."
"Whatchu mean you'll see me later?" He questioned avidly. Cindy sighed in response.
"As in goodnight. Please lock the door on your way out."
"Girl, I ain't goin' nowhere!"
"Reezy, come on." Cindy groaned. "Why the hell not?"
"I came over to see you, dammit! I can't be burning up gas driving back and forth and around here just because! The hell's wrong witchu?"
"Those sound like personal problems." Cindy muttered, closing her eyes again. She opened them slightly when she heard him chuckle.
"I know it was a personal problem for you earlier when I left." She felt him scooch closer next to her. "Lemme make it up to you."
"Boy, it's too late for that now."
"It's never too late." He told her overdramatically, now pressing himself against her from behind. "And I'm staying."
"Reezy…." Cindy groaned again, fighting her grin.
"What, girl?" His arm found his way around her body again as he leaned his face near her neck. "I'm just tryna do right by you. Make you happy and shit."
"You're full of it."
"You're full of it. Try harder at hidin' that smile, bay." He told her before kissing her neck.
"Boy!" Cindy looked back at him again. His smirk was wide as he stared back at her.
"I want to stay with you. Let me." He told her simply. Then he leaned down and gently pecked her lips, surprising her. She felt her face heat up under his gaze.
"Fine, boy. Just go to sleep." She mumbled, turning away from him again.
"Go to sleep?" He repeated huskily, his entire body now pressed tightly against her. "I'd rather sleep with you."
"Not tonight, Reez." Cindy refused. That was one thing that was not on the agenda at this point.
"Aw come on, baby." He protested, beginning to kiss the back of her neck softly. Cindy took deep, slow breaths to resist his tricks and focus more on her urge to rest.
"I'll put you right back to sleep." Riley whispered into her ear before taking it between his teeth and sucking on her lobe.
"Reezy, no." She held her ground, feeling sleepier by the minute. It was originally hard to concentrate with all of his kisses and touches, but became increasingly difficult with his complaining. After at least five minutes, she couldn't stand it anymore.
"Listen, nigga. Either shut up and go to sleep or your ass is gonna be on the couch."
"Man, fuck yo couch." He grumbled in response. "I ain't goin' nowhere. I just don't understand why you don't wanna end the night on a good note. The fuck is that logic? You'll sleep better. I'll sleep better. It's a win-win." Cindy knew he wasn't finished, so she cut him off before he could even continue by rolling over to face him.
"Riley. I promise you can do whatever you want with me tomorrow, but I need to sleep now." Cupping his face in her hands, she gently gave him a sweet kiss. He moaned into it, gripping her backside to pull her closer against him. She enjoyed it and indulged him by rubbing her fingers through his rows, earning another moan from him. Then after one more kiss, she slowly pulled back at looked up at him.
"Sleep, Reezy." She told him softly with a smile. Then she wrapped her arms around him and snuggled into his body, her face in his neck. Riley sighed loudly with an incoherent grumble. Cindy had a feeling that she had won. But a few short moments after, she felt Riley pulling his body back slightly, causing her to glance up at him. "Wha-"
But she was cut off by his lips. He surprisingly kissed her the same way she had done to him. Softly. He gently had tipped her chin up with his fingers and had ran his fingers lightly through her hair with his other hand. When their lips finally disconnected, he smirked. "Goodnight, C." Then he easily pulled her back against him.
Cindy closed her eyes again and smiled into his neck. She may not have had the best day.
But damn was she going to have a restful night.
The Next Morning
Cindy stirred lightly in her bed, finally starting to awaken. Her body felt five times better and much more relaxed after her slumber. She had been out and slept peacefully the whole way through the night. And her comfort level had been at a 10.
Cindy snuggled more as her eyes slowly started to flicker open. She felt great and didn't want to move period. However, the sound of a light snore beside her grabbed her attention, causing her to roll her head slightly up at the noise.
She couldn't help the small smile that escaped as she gazed at a sleeping Riley. He was such a damn brat and could get under her skin like no one else could. Why did he have to be so damn cute though? He was completely out as he laid on his back with his head tossed back, clearly resting soundly. But even in his deep sleep, his arm was securely snug around Cindy. She laid cuddled up against his side, her leg entwined with his, and her head resting against his chest underneath his chin. She couldn't help herself from nuzzling more into his neck before kissing his jaw.
Because he stayed. By choice.
"Reezy," She said quietly as she brushed her lips against him. "You wakin' up?" She giggled when all she got in return was a mumbled sigh-groan. "Thank you for staying." She grinned, planting another kiss on his chin.
"Mhm." He murmured almost inaudibly. His next breath eluded to another light snore. She chuckled again as she wrapped her body tighter around his, continuing to steal little kisses. In the back of her mind, she had to admit that she felt a little mushy. This kind of affection never really happened between them. If Riley was actually conscious and woke up, he'd probably look at her like she was crazy. And Cindy didn't want to be that girl. But it felt natural. And she was in a good fucking mood.
And then, as she continued to plant kisses along his neck, another thought passed through her mind.
She had an idea of what could put him a good fucking mood as well.
Cindy kissed him one last time on the neck before gently pulling away and untangling herself from his body a bit as she sat up. She smirked as she heard him let out a low noise as his hand moved, as if she was unhappy she left his arms. She watched him as she slowly started to slide the covers down with her feet. They were already halfway off Riley's body, but she kicked them down until they only covered his knees. Then she grinned again as she once again moved closer to him.
"Reezy," She whispered, sliding herself against him once more before kissing his cheek. He didn't budge, which caused Cindy to smirk. She continued to smirk as she kissed down his neck, making glances up at him as she shifted her body further down the bed. She slowly kissed along his collarbone, down his bare chest, and slowly down his developed abs. By this point, she was lightly straddled over him; as she loosely looped her hair back into a bun, Riley was finally starting to stir. Cindy gently brushed her fingertips down his torso, finally prompting a moan from him.
"Whatchu doin', girl?" He murmured as he shifted his body slightly, his eyes still closed. Cindy grinned as she moved her fingers further down until she reached the top of his boxers. Then she lightly lifted the band with one hand while her other hand smoothly continued to slid inside.
Riley's eyes finally opened, immediately eyeing his manhood before making eye contact with Cindy.
"Nothing." She smirked at him as she gently pulled out his member.
Riley's eyes moved back and forth from her eyes to his arousing region again. "You call this noth-"
He didn't have time to finish his statement before Cindy took him into his mouth without warning. She moaned in response to the involuntary moan that Riley emitted at the action. She glanced up at him as she slid him further into her mouth to see his reaction. The way he stared down at her, biting his lip with that sexy look in his eye was priceless, and gave Cindy motivation.
She sent him a wink before sliding him out, delivering a long lick from the base of his shaft to the head, before accepting him again. Cindy wasn't usually a fan of performing oral, but she had to admit, she was enjoying handling Riley. His sighs, moans, and movements indicated that she was doing it well. She went slow with him, and very deliberate. She teased him, slowing down even more with playful licks and kisses before increasing her intensity with him until he was almost at his limit. Almost.
Then she finally gave him what he wanted, and clearly what he needed. She worked him passionately, feeling his desire in the way his breathing quickened, the way he stroked and tugged at her hair, and the way his member seemed to expand even more in her mouth, if that was possible. Almost a moment after Cindy felt the sensation, she felt Riley gently but rapidly pat the crown of her head as a signal. When he finally did release, Cindy focused on the way he let out a sharp hiss, followed by a quiet curse. Then he released the rest of his breath in a slow, exhaling sigh, his body and muscles relaxing along with it. His hand that was still resting on top of her head lightly massaged her once more, gently curling his fingers in her hair before letting go and stroking down the back of her head. Cindy smiled slightly to herself as he finished, her mouth still around him as she glanced up at him. The dazed look on his face he stared back at her with said everything she wanted it to say.
Satisfaction.
After a few more moments, Cindy pulled her head back and carefully placed him back inside his boxers before rising up from his body. She stole another glance at him as she started for the bathroom. He watched her carefully, that expression still frozen on his face. Cindy let out small smirk at him before stepping into the bathroom and closing the door behind her.
It wasn't often that she was able to make him go speechless.
But when she did… damn, it was rewarding.
Cindy quickly brushed her teeth and mouthwashed before proceeding to cleanse her face. She stared at herself, deep in thought as she started to dry herself off. Sometimes her audacity surprised even her. She didn't know exactly where the urge came from to do that. She also didn't know what was going on emotionally between the two of them. The hot and cold thing was starting to fuck with her. One day she's ready to kill him and the next day, not even 24 hours later, she's giving him head. What in the hell?
She knew Riley was a big factor in the situation, and that it wasn't just her being irrational. Whether he knew it or not, he was a major influence in their interactions together. Riley knew exactly what to say to rile her up and even more on what to say to smooth things over. He was a player, pure and simple. She had always known that.
She just didn't understand why she continued to allow herself to be played.
She shook away the train of thoughts from her mind. Why the hell was her brain always going to the negative? She didn't want to think about that. It was going to be a good day, dammit. She had a good morning. Riley certainly had a good morning. She didn't want to ruin that.
Cindy fluffed her hair after she finished putting everything away, now thinking about how the conversation was going to go when she went back to the bedroom. This was the first time she performed oral on him; though Riley had done it for her a few times, this was the first time she felt ready and comfortable enough to do it. Obviously he had enjoyed it, but still. She was very interested to hear what would come out of his mouth, but truly had no idea what to expect.
Cindy mentally prepped herself as she slowly opened the bathroom door and stepped out. She had barely taken a half-step before she paused, letting out a snicker at his position. He hadn't moved an inch since she'd went in the bathroom, still laid out on his back. He now turned his head at the sound of her entrance and locked eyes with her, a smirk forming on his lips.
"What?" Cindy asked with a grin, feeling a blush arising on her cheeks.
"Damn." He said lowly, the bass in his voice exuding sexiness as he looked at her.
Cindy chuckled and crossed her arms as she approached his side of the bed. "Damn what?" She played dumb with a smirk of her own. She squealed as Riley's arm quickly wrapped around her body and pulled her down on top of him.
"You know damn well what, girl!" He said, now rolling so that he was on top of her.
"Why don't you tell me?" Cindy replied suggestively, admiring the intensity in his eyes. Riley continued to smirk down at her as he leaned in, gently pushing her hair out the way as he pressed his lips to her ear.
"Someone woke up in a good mood." He murmured as he caressed her body with firm pressure.
"I could say the same about you." She countered smugly, loving the attention.
"True." He said after nibbling along her ear. "Wanna explain why?" He asked simply. Cindy let out a light gasp at the feeling of his hand suddenly in between her legs, grazing over the fabric of her boy shorts.
"I, uhh… don't know," She began, trying to contain her excitement as Riley managed to yank down her shorts with one hand. "I… I don't know what… w-what got into me." She breathed, distracted as Riley easily pushed her panties aside and began to tease her. He chuckled deeply into her neck at her last comment.
"I can tell you what's about to get into you."
"Reezy," Cindy exhaled loudly at the pleasure his fingers provided. It was only momentary before Riley pulled his hand away and lifted his body halfway to pull down his boxers and slide out of them. Cindy stared down at him, impressed. "Ready to go already?"
"It barely takes me ten minutes." He winked, reaching over to her nightstand to swipe a wrapped condom from the surface.
"Someone's horny." Cindy grinned, watching him rip it open and begin to slide it on.
"Says the pot to the kettle." He smirked, lowering down on top of her.
"Oh whatev-" Cindy was cut off with his lips as he kissed her hungrily. She obliged him, enjoying the heat of his body and passion behind his kisses. They were just starting to really get into it, and him about to get into her, when they heard the last sound they wanted to hear at that moment.
Rapid knocking.
"Are you fucking kidding me?" Riley muttered in between their kisses.
"Ignore it." Cindy murmured back, silencing him with a deep kiss of her own. He moaned into it and it was silent for a few moments, including the knocking. Until another sound was heard, very faintly.
"Cindy! Open up!"
At the sound of her name, they both promptly stopped and pulled away as they listened.
"It's us!"
Jazmine and Caesar.
"Shit!" Riley and Cindy hissed at the same time, scrambling away from each other.
"Off!" Cindy shoved him before pulling her underwear and shorts back up.
"Shuddup, I am!" Riley snapped, now standing and hopping on one foot to pull on his boxers. "What the hell are they doing here, it's not even ten in the morning!"
"I have no idea." Cindy shrugged, running a hand through her hair. "But you cannot be here."
"Yeah, no shit. Where the hell are my clothes?"
"The hell if I know!" Cindy replied flippantly, now digging through her bedroom drawer.
"I fucking hate wasting condoms." She heard him seethe behind her, followed by the sound of something going in her garbage.
"Get over it." Cindy rolled her eyes, pulling an oversized black top over her lacy camisole. "Is that all of your stuff?" She asked, turning around. All he was wearing was his basketball shorts, Timbs, and a white beater.
"No, I left some things in your living room." He explained, starting to head for the door.
"CINDY, wake your ass up!" Caesar's voice sounded again.
"Think we should just use the emergency key?" Jazmine's voice was much quieter compared to Caesar's, but was definitely heard.
"Fuck, forget it!" Cindy quickly grabbed Riley's arm and pulled him back.
"Shit!" Riley exclaimed again.
"Leave it, you gotta go before they come in."
"How?" Riley countered evenly. "There's one way in and one way out! Game over."
"You can use the fire escape." Cindy explained, pulling him to the glass door of her bedroom that opened to her patio balcony.
"What?"
"I'M COMING!" Cindy shouted loudly, making damn sure Jazmine and Caesar heard her. Then she opened her door and ushered Riley outside with her.
"Damn." Riley muttered quietly, probably in response to the brisk air that morning. Cindy couldn't agree more, already feeling goosebumps forming on her legs.
"Okay, the escape is right at the end of this corner at the gate." Cindy explained, walking with him to show him. "Just make sure you close the gate after you go through."
"Daaangg." Riley let out, examining all the stairs zig-zagging down. "I'mma look like a damn fool."
"Boy, I don't care what you look like, you just need to get gone." Cindy retorted. "Text me later, I've gotta run to get the door before they bust their way in."
"I gotchu, go." Riley said as he opened the gate, gesturing her to head back in. "Keep it together, C." He said to her turned back.
"I got it."
"And hey." He called again.
"Reez, what?" Cindy asked anxiously, now at the door looking back at him. He was now on the other side of the closed gate, studying her. Then he smirked.
"I had a good time witchu. Thanks." He said lightly, giving her one of those looks that made her blush. "I'll be back later to finish what we started."
Cindy grinned back and gave him a wink as she started to head in. "Later, Reezy."
"Later." She heard him say before she closed her door shut. Then she quickly started to head for her living room, the panic starting to set in again as she heard their voices.
"On any other day her door would be unlocked." She heard Jazmine chuckle once she entered the living room.
"Fuck it. Move outta the way." Caesar's voice replied, alarming Cindy as she spotted Riley's red shirt strewn over the back of her couch.
"I SAID, I'm coming!" Cindy shouted again, rushing to grab the shirt and stuff it haphazardly under one of the cushions. She gave a speedy and sweeping glance over the room as she briskly walked to the door, getting her game face on and ready as she unlocked it and finally pulled it open.
"And what the hell are you doing?" She snapped immediately, glaring at Caesar who was squatted on the ground in front of her next to a standing Jazmine. Her door mat was lifted up to reveal her silver spare key on the ground, clearly about to be picked up by Caesar. He remained in his kneeling position for a moment, gazing up at her hostility.
"…Sup?" He finally said, slightly cautious.
"Sup nothin', nigga! Y'all don't know how to wait?" Cindy demanded, crossing her arms as he finally rose to full height again.
"Sorry I'm impatient. I gotta use the restroom." He explained plainly with a shrug, side-stepping her easily to enter her apartment. Cindy turned in disbelief at his retreating back.
This nigga….
"He's in rare form today." Cindy turned around at Jazmine voice. She had kicked the mat back over before smiling at her expectantly. "May I come in?" She asked.
"Um, yeah? Obviously?" Cindy replied, raising an eyebrow at her formality. After she entered, Cindy shut the door and followed her to the couch. "Sooo, why the early house call?"
Jazmine had the nerve to look confused. "What do you mean?"
Cindy gave her a look. "Jazz. It just now turned 10:00. What the hell are you and Ceez doin' in the city?"
"Someone's a sleepy head." Jazmine grinned lightly, earning another stern look. "The main reason we're in the area is because I came with Caesar to drop his truck off for his last tune-up appointment." She explained.
"…And then you came here?" Cindy deadpanned.
"We were in the area. And his truck should be ready in two hours or so. We wanted to know if you wanted to hang out."
"…At 10 AM though?"
"Worth a shot." Jazmine shrugged. "What have you been up to this morning?" She asked, swiftly changing the subject before Cindy had time to respond.
"Uh, sleeping?" She answered, gesturing to her night clothes.
"Really?" Jazmine asked, subtly raising a Huey-like eyebrow. The way she had replied made Cindy pause. Jazmine had said it the way a parent would, when they already knew the truth and were just testing their child to see if they would lie. Cindy didn't know what was up, but she did not like the vibe at all. Something was off.
"Yes 'really.' What's up with you today?" She asked, her expression now hardened as she looked at her seriously.
Jazmine glanced at her innocently, shaking her head. "Nothing, what do you mean?"
"Jazmine, stop. I know you. And you're still the worst liar. Now what's up?"
"Nothing's up with me. What's up with you?" Jazmine replied purposely as she looked at her, using that tone again.
Before Cindy could even call her out on it, Caesar cleared his throat as he stood at the entrance of the doorway, leaning against the wall. "Hey Cin, I gotta question." He asked.
"What now?" She replied, but was happy to focus her energy away from Jazmine at the moment. But that was before Caesar gave her a look that was all-too similar to Jazmine's.
"Where's Riley?" He asked simply.
"What?" Cindy practically scoffed. "I don't know nigga, ask him! How would I know that?"
Caesar clucked his tongue, giving her a waiting look. "What, nigga?" Cindy demanded again.
"We saw his car in the lot, Cindy." Jazmine spoke calmly, making her whip her head back to her. "About a minute or so before we came up."
"He ain't in the bathroom, he ain't in your bedroom, he ain't in the gues troom, and he ain't out here." Caesar added, listing off on his fingers. "So where he at?" He asked casually.
Shit.
"Why you sweatin' me? He had to go." Cindy explained quickly, trying to keep her cool. Immediately after she spoke, Jazmine and Caesar simultaneously turned their heads to look at the door.
"Um, did he turn invisible because I know I didn't see him. You see him, Jazz?" Caesar asked, glancing at her.
"Nope." She shrugged.
"There's only one way in and one way out. How could we have possibly missed him?" Caesar asked, directing his attention back to Cindy.
"He took the stairs!" Cindy exclaimed.
"The fire escape stairs on your balcony?" Jazmine spoke up. "For what purpose?"
"I don't know, maybe he wanted the exercise! Ask him!" Cindy shot back, now irritated. It was quiet for a short moment before Caesar made a little 'tsk' noise, looking at her.
"You're spiraling, babygirl." He told her simply.
Cindy narrowed her eyes at him as she rose from her feet. "No, I'm not! I just don't know why there's always 20 questions about us. If there was something you guys needed to know, I'd share it but there's not. So until then-"
"Oh my God, enough!" Jazmine suddenly blurted, surprising Cindy.
"Enough what?" She demanded, propping a hand on her hip.
"Enough of the bullshit, Cindy." Jazmine countered, rising to her feet as well. "We already know you and Riley are together! It's obvious! You don't have to lie to us. And we didn't mean to turn this into an interrogation-"
"Eh." Caesar cut in, doing a wishy-washy hand gesture.
"But this is just getting ridiculous. We just saw his car not even five minutes ago. We come up and for some unknown reason he disappeared down the fire escape?"
"Not to mention he left his jacket and hat on the floor?" Caesar added, pointing at the ground across the room from him next to the loveseat. It was out of Cindy's view from her position, but she figured that Riley must've laid his stuff on the arm of chair and it had slid off onto the floor out of sight.
Shit.
"Come on, Cindy." Jazmine began again, a gentler tone this time as she looked at her. "Please stop taking us for idiots. We're not judging either of you, at all. Just be honest about it and tell us that it's exactly what it looks like."
Cindy stared back, glancing between Jazmine and Caesar as they waited a response. She felt completely backed into a corner with no exit route this time. And damn if she didn't feel tricked! Had she known they were coming, even a minute in advance, she could've figured out a plan. She wouldn't have made Riley leave. She would've made up some reason as to why he was at her apartment that early. She hadn't even considered the fact that they might've spotted his bright-ass car before she started her lie.
She felt screwed, and she couldn't help but remember Riley's earlier comment about the situation.
Game over.
Cindy rolled her eyes and looked away from them both as she muttered lowly under her breath.
"What?" Jazmine and Caesar echoed, both leaning in a little closer.
"I said, what's it to you?" Cindy answered boldly, crossing her arms as she glared at them. Both of their eyes widened, glancing quickly at each other before back at Cindy.
"So it's true?" Jazmine asked gently.
Cindy stared at her evenly, ignoring the warmth of her face. "…Yes." She muttered, through gritted teeth.
It was quiet for a brief moment… before Jazmine nearly tackled her in a hug.
"Oof!"
"FINALLY!" Jazmine exclaimed, clear happiness in her voice.
"Hell yeah fuckin' right!" Caesar added, finally crossing the room over to them. He wrapped his arm around both of them and lightly ruffled Cindy's head before letting go. "Damn we're good." He winked at Jazmine, extending for a fist bump.
"Okay, what the fuck? No dap!" Cindy objected, watching them dap up anyway. "What the hell is wrong with y'all?"
"What's wrong with us, what's wrong with y'all?" Caesar snickered. "You really think you were gonna keep this big of a secret from anybody? I mean c'mon, it's me."
"He's got a point." Jazmine grinned. "Besides, had you just announced it, we wouldn't have had to go to such extreme measures to know the truth. It also wouldn't have been such a big deal."
"Eh." Caesar wishy-washed.
"True, I take that back. It still would've been a big deal." She giggled.
"Man, whateva." Cindy rolled her eyes. "And announced what, Jazz?"
"Um, that you and Riley are dating, hello?" She responded as if it were obvious.
Dating?
"Y'all are some punks, man. Tell Reez to make this ish Facebook official already, what's the big deal? As a matter of fact…." Caesar eluded, taking his phone out of his pocket.
"Hey no, what the hell are you doing?" Cindy immediately pulled the phone out of his hand.
"What? I was just gonna tell him somethin' on his wall." He shrugged.
"Oh hell no!" Cindy said, powering down his phone and crossing her arms with it as she stepped around them, heading for the hallway.
"Cindy, wait." Jazmine called after her in confusion.
"Can you get my phone back for me?" Cindy heard Caesar quietly ask, making her roll her eyes as she entered her bedroom. She didn't bother closing her door yet; she knew Jazmine would be following behind her soon, which she did.
"I feel like you need to talk." Jazmine began once she entered.
"I'm fine." Cindy muttered, closing the door behind her and locking it.
"You are not acting fine." Jazmine replied as she took a seat on the bed, clearly noting the way she hurriedly shut the door. "Why'd you lock it?"
"Because I just can't deal with Ceez right now." Cindy set his phone on top of her drawer with more force than necessary.
"You realize you can't keep his phone forever."
"Unless I accidentally break it."
"Okay, extreme much?" Jazmine chuckled. "'Accident' nothing. You know he wouldn't really put anything like that online…. Well…." She hesitated when Cindy gave her blank, disbelieving look in return. "Okay, maybe he would've tried, but we won't let him." Jazmine adjusted her statement.
"Whatever." Cindy rolled her eyes, tossing herself down on the bed next to her, lying out on her back with her eyes closed. Jazmine grinned, crossing her legs and looking down at her.
"What's going on with you for real though, Cin? It's really not a big deal, and so not surprising. We always said you guys would eventually date. Oooh, I can't wait to rub it in Huey's face that I was right and that you're finally together-"
"We are not together!" Cindy finally blurted as she snapped her eyes open, completely fed up.
Jazmine paused, still looking down at her. Then she situated herself so she could lay on her back next to her.
"Wait, what?" She asked quietly.
"We're not together, Jazz." Cindy repeated, not making eye contact as she stared at the ceiling. "We're not dating. Our relationship hasn't gone beyond a friendship. Not exactly anyway." She rolled her eyes.
"Okay…." Jazmine spoke slowly, somewhat cautiously. "And by that you mean… you guys are…?"
"Hooking up… yes." Cindy answered simply, finally meeting her gaze. She could tell that Jazmine was trying to hide her surprise.
"Okay." She began, clearly choosing her words carefully. "And no judgement on either of you, but can I ask why? What brought you guys to that decision?"
Cindy let out a sigh, turning to face her more. "It's a long story." Jazmine gave her a look to continue, prompting Cindy to finally tell it. Riley was going to kill her, but Cindy was exhausted with hiding the truth. Their cover was already blown; there also was nothing further she could've done to prevent it. So she finally came clean. Jazmine was silent for mostly the entire time, only nodding and prompting Cindy to continue when necessary. By the end of her story, Cindy still felt admittedly embarrassed, but she also felt a weight off her shoulders. If they hadn't caught her, she didn't know how much longer she would've been able to keep up with the secret anyway.
"Wow." Jazmine said at the end of her story. They now were both propped on their elbows as they faced each other. "So now what?"
"What do you mean?"
"Well, now that we know, what do you think Riley's next move will be?"
"Hell if I know." Cindy shrugged. "I know he'll probably be pissed that y'all found out, but that's beyond anyone's control."
"What will that mean for the two of you?" Jazmine asked quietly.
Cindy looked at her for a moment before shrugging again. "Your guess is as good as mine, Jazz." After she spoke, she noticed that Jazmine was pulling at one of her ringlets, one of her nervous habits. "What?"
"…Can I ask you a question?" She treaded carefully.
"Yeah, what?" Cindy answered, not sure if she was quite ready for the question when Jazmine took a breath.
"Don't you think you deserve more than just an occasional smash?"
Cindy's eyes widened. She definitely wasn't ready.
"I mean, in a real relationship with someone who really cares about you?" Jazmine continued quickly at her expression.
"Riley cares about me." Cindy mumbled, hating herself for sounding defensive.
"I know he cares about you, Cindy. But don't you think you deserve someone who actually loves you and is willing to commit to being with you?"
Cindy looked away from her in frustration, rolling on her back. "I eventually do want that Jazz, but it's not like it's that simple. And it's not like there's a world full of Huey's out here." Cindy rolled her eyes. Huey could be an ass, but if nothing else, he was devoted and kept Jazmine happy. Cindy looked to the ceiling again as she sighed. "Right now it's just… hard. And right now, my chances of finding somebody are slim."
"Hey." Jazmine said, finally making Cindy turn her head back to her. "Don't. Settle." She said seriously. "I love Riley like a brother, but… you can do better, Cindy. And you deserve better. Don't let him make you think anything less. If he's not willing to truly be with you and only you, then he doesn't deserve anything from you other than your friendship."
Cindy stared at her, letting her words sink in. They weren't any different than the thoughts she'd been having lately, but somehow hearing it from someone other than herself made her feel a little less crazy.
"That's just my opinion though." Jazmine added lightly before pulling herself up from her horizontal position. "I should probably get out there before Caesar leaves and catches a cab. Unless he has already."
"Girl, you know his nosey-ass didn't go nowhere." Cindy snorted, rising as well.
"True." Jazmine grinned. "Are you ready to talk to him though?"
"Honestly, I'd rather you just fill him in later." Cindy said with the wave of her hand. She didn't have the energy to go through the whole story again. "Spare at least some of the details, but I don't care if you tell him the truth." She told her, passing her the cellphone from the dresser.
"Okay." Jazmine nodded, sliding it in her back pocket. Then she opened the door of the bedroom and stepped out, Cindy following behind her. Once they entered the living room, they found Caesar sprawled out on the couch watching a football game. He lifted his eyes to them as they approached.
"Finally, yo." He said, clicking off the TV.
"I'm half-surprised you weren't sitting outside the door." Jazmine teased.
"Oh don't worry, I was. But that was before I realized I couldn't hear anything. Then I came out here." He explained nonchalantly.
"Lovely." She replied with the roll of her eyes.
Caesar smiled at her before turning his gaze to Cindy, standing quietly next to her. She could feel the charm turning on as he took a step towards her and reached for both of her hands gently.
"I'm sorry I was clownin' about blowing up your spot on Facebook." He told her cutely as he lightly swung their hands.
Cindy smirked and shook her head. "Yeah whateva. I'm sorry I jacked your phone."
"Please, no you ain't."
"Nope, not at all." She admitted with a shrug. She giggled when he took her into a tight hug.
"So am I gonna get the scoop at all?" He asked once he let go.
"I'll fill you in on the car ride." Jazmine told him, pulling his phone from her jeans and extending it to him. She held onto it tightly as he tried to take it and gave him a look. "Are you going to behave?"
"Yes ma'am." He smiled brightly. "Always."
"Eh." Jazmine made the wishy-washy gesture with her free hand before handing him the phone. Then she turned to Cindy. "Sure you don't want to come out with us for lunch or something?"
"No thanks. I'm gonna take a shower and get some things done here. Probably work on some choreography later."
"Alright. I'll text you later." Jazmine told her with a smile, leaning in to hug her. "And don't forget what I said." She whispered quietly. Cindy squeezed her a little tighter in response.
"Damn, more secrets? Why y'all always leavin' me outta shit?" Caesar complained behind them.
"Oh hush." Jazmine chuckled as she let go and turned back to him, looping her arm through his. "Let's go."
Cindy walked them to the door to see them off and tell them goodbye before they walked out and entered the elevator. Once Cindy had closed the door, she leaned against it for a moment, deep in her thoughts. Her mind continued to run as she eventually made her way through the living room, down the hall, and back into her room. She spotted her phone on her nightstand, the notification light going off. She picked it up and opened her messages, already knowing who they would all be from.
From Reezy: It's cold AF out here!
All these white ppl r lookin at me walkin down these damn stairs. They bout to catch these hands.
Why you ain't text me back yet? What's goin on?
Don't tell their asses shit. Especially Caesar's nosey ass. Bitch nigga.
WHITE GIRL. Do they know anything or nah?
Cindy finally felt the strength to text back.
Yes.
They were wrong for that. And I'm wrong for leaving it like that, I know.
Explanation time: Alright kids. I'm really sorry about this late update. To be honest, this chapter really pissed me off lol. I'm so serious when I say I've had the majority of it done for a WHILE. Like almost a full month. But then a bunch of conflicts started happening in the world around me as to where I barely had time to work on it. And then when I DID work on it, I kept getting writer's block outta nowhere! Literally it felt like I had to take a break every other line. I was tight lol. I'm so happy to finally get this out.
Disclaimers: I don't own 'em. Period.
Thank you all soooo much for stickin' with me. You guys don't even understand how much you make my day. I can be gone literally for months, and still in the time in between that I'll get random reviews and PM's.
I love y'all. Never forget :)
~Schweetie