#AnotherOne:
Proper thank you's going in PMs soon for the bests:
Boondocksfann, SuadamPanyuthapum, QuestionyTheQuestionMark, Your Hitta, Fan of Boondocks, CocoaMoon, JustLikeAir, N. Chanel, Guesty, A, Guestproblk, Brooks, NarutoRileysGirl, Guest, and Guest30001.
Let's… go.
Disclaimer: I do not own any part of Aaron McGruder's The Boondocks or any of his characters.
"What did I see? Well that brings up an interesting philosophical question.
Is it okay to snitch to the police... on the police?"
~ Riley Freeman; The Block Is Hot
Riley's POV
He had never been one to work out.
Consistently, weekly, or even occasionally if he was being honest.
He had always been blessed with a naturally athletic body on the leaner side. It didn't take much for him to bulk up when he felt like it either, especially now from his work at the shop. He'd definitely packed on a little extra muscle over the past few months.
But that was really his extent. And as far as going to the gym? That was a very rare desire for him.
However… considering seven days had now passed and he happened to know a certain white girl's schedule, a certain white girl who had certainly been ignoring him over the past few days… Riley suddenly had the urge to get some exercise. And since he didn't have any weights or anything at his apartment, the only logical solution was to hit the gym. The largest one downtown, with the best equipment of course.
Riley strolled through the supercenter of gym easily, snaking around throngs of people and heavy pieces of equipment. He headed with a purpose towards the back corridor of the gym, knowing exactly where he'd find her. He heard the evidence of her presence before he even saw her.
Body cold (Frosty)
And I'm so (Bossy)
Ain't I so (Saucy)
And my clothes (Cost me)
Riley turned the corner slowly to see her in the middle of the room dancing alongside four other girls. The large space was sectioned off to give its own private floor space, along with a wall-length mirror and three other makeshift walls with viewing windows. Riley hung back at the entrance, not wanting to draw attention to himself as he watched her with a smirk.
As usual Cindy was killing it, leading her crew to a familiar-sounding song with a dope beat.
Hood and I'm bougie
Gucci on my booty
Poppin' like a toolie
You ain't poppin' need to cool it
Just cash up with my jeweler
While you stuck here looking stupid
Winnin' while they losin'
Getcho nigga cause he choosin'
He wasn't trying to openly stare but at the same time, his eyes didn't wander towards any of the other dancers. Cindy just had that captivating stage presence about her every time she moved. He couldn't help but grin as she clearly improvised, smiling cheekily when she dropped it low with a few "subtle" twerks. Her friends dancing with her hyped her up as she continued to freestyle her dance and Riley shifted a bit, his eyes unintentionally drifting lower.
When Cindy rose again, laughing as she continued dancing back in formation with the others, she looked into the mirror and her eyes widened a bit as she spotted Riley in the reflection.
Shit. Riley thought to himself, keeping his face blank as he supplied a light head nod. Cindy's expression matched his as she didn't react to him, turning back to keep her eyes on herself and the group as they continued to dance and finish out the end of the song. Once the song started to fade out, Cindy smiled and turned around to face the other dancers as she clapped.
"Great job girls, that was awesome." Cindy said to them as they grinned and caught their breath. "Go ahead and take a break, we'll pick back up in just a bit."
Riley took that as his cue as he began to head to the entrance of the small studio. He passed three of the dancers on their way out, sliding past them to step inside. Cindy eyed him right away from the corner of the room even though she was mid-conversation with one of her dancers. Again, Riley couldn't decipher that look, so he decided to break the ice by giving her his signature smirk as he walked right up to her.
"Lookin' good, C-Murph." He cut in smoothly. She gave him a look at his interruption while the dancer in front of her turned to him with interest. He flashed her a smirk as well to be fair. "Sup? You too."
"Well thank you." The girl said at once, her eyes lighting up as she tucked a strand of hair behind her ear. "Are you a new dancer?"
"Not exactly." Riley shrugged while Cindy let out a flat "no."
"What's your name?" She continued, clearly undeterred.
"Call me Reezy." He winked at her, getting a kick out of the way she blushed. "Yours?"
"Jail-bait." Cindy answered for her dryly before the girl could fully open her mouth. "And she needs to go get some water to cool off."
Riley had to struggle to hold back his laughter as the dancer shot her a look, her face still pink. She gave Riley a shy wave before heading out of the room with a quickness.
"You cold, C." Riley snickered after they were alone.
"Frosty." She shrugged, lifting the bottle of water to her lips to take a sip.
"That too." He grinned at her, leaning against the wall.
"So what are you doing here, other than watching me of course?"
"Girl please, not everything is about you." He shot back, loving the way she glared at him for throwing that line back in her face. "I'm here to exercise."
"Oh yeah, what are you focusing on?" She asked immediately.
"Uh, multiple things."
"Such as?"
"Weights." He said the first thing that popped into his head.
"Squats, benching, dead-lifts?"
"All of 'em."
"How much?"
"You quizzin' me?"
"I'm just asking, how much have you lifted so far?" She pressed.
"Shit, a lot. I didn't write shit down. It wasn't on my agenda to be interrogated today." Riley crossed his arms stubbornly.
Cindy shook her head, cracking a grin. "Just curious. It's funny you can't even recall one number. Also funny how you're not sweating… at all." She said pointedly, picking up a towel to dab at the glistening skin on her neck.
"Yeah, yeah, whateva." Riley brushed off, making contact with her eyes again. "Let's grab lunch."
"Boy, whatchu mean 'let's grab lunch?'" She gave him a look like he was crazy.
"I mean, I'm hungry? What else would that mean? Take a break, let's go."
"I've gotta do another set in a little bit, I don't have that kind of time."
"Really, you just gave your dancers a break but you can't spare yourself one?" He gave her a look.
"Reez." She said in that tone, and damn was it refreshing to hear that, even when she was annoyed with him.
"Five minutes." Riley tried again. "We don't have to do a long lunch. There's a smoothie bar right across the hall, come on."
She gave him that look again, but Riley knew he finally had her by the way her eyes softened slightly before she rolled them. "Five minutes."
"Deal." He grinned, beginning to head out already. He glanced behind him, surprised to see that she had grabbed her oversized zip-up hoodie to pull over her black workout bra.
"Why are you wearing that?" He raised an eyebrow while she halfway zipped it.
"We're going outside of the gym area." She said, not meeting his eyes.
"So?" He didn't get it. "You never cared before."
"It's not that I care, it's just that I don't always need or want to draw attention to myself." She mumbled.
"You work hard for your body, why not?" He shrugged, still not getting the sudden change. "And again, who cares?"
"Now look who's interrogating." She rolled her eyes up to him with a light smirk.
"Oh, I've got questions. I've got a whole week of questions actually." He matched her smirk.
She actually let out a small giggle. "Ohh and I can't wait to hear them."
Cindy's POV
She shook her head at him with an eyeroll at his story, wild and exaggerated as ever. He was such a clown.
But admittedly, she had missed his antics.
They sat together in the plaza at a small table, both now slurping from their respective smoothie drinks. It had already been past the five-minute mark, but she had told the girls she'd be back soon and to keep practicing and warming up until she returned. More than likely, they'd be fine.
She figured she had at least five more minutes to spare with Reezy to make up for their lost time.
"So boom: all I gotta do is get six more red ones and three blues by next week and I win. Then Renzo's stupid ass will have to do my bet, and ole boy definitely don't want that shit." Riley continued his story with a devious look in his eye.
"But you cheated." Cindy pointed out.
"And that's his problem, feel me? He don't know that."
"Weak."
"Hater." He smirked back, making her grin in return with an eyeroll. Another thought reappeared in her mind, one she'd been trying to ignore for the past several days. Yet here they were.
Speaking of haters….
"So…" Cindy cleared her throat, willing her face to remain neutral and her voice to stay even. "How is Tish?"
Riley had been mid-swallow of his smoothie when he coughed suddenly, startling Cindy as he pounded on his chest lightly with a smile, seeming to be halfway choking on his laughter.
"Wow, that was forced." He said, still cough-laughing. "Nice effort, doll."
"Don't call me that." Cindy glared at him. "And I'm serious. How is she after what happened?"
Riley gave her a look, clearly not believing her. "She's fine."
"How has it been with her staying with you?" She tried again, slightly irritated by his vagueness.
"That didn't last long." He practically snorted.
Cindy blinked at that. "Meaning…?"
"Oh, we're still together." He said after a beat at her confused silence. "She just stayed with another friend for a couple days until they got her house put back together."
"Why?"
"Have you seen my place? It's hardly up to her standards."
It was Cindy's turn to snort at that as she rolled her eyes. "More like she's high maintenance."
Riley eyed her. "Coming from the white girl with a penthouse."
"Coming from the same white girl who's crashed at your house plenty of times with no complaint." She quipped back just as easily. "There's nothing wrong with your place, Reez. It's a home."
He grunted and swirled around his smoothie, glancing away from her for a moment. Cindy figured there was more to the story that she was missing, but decided to drop it for now.
"Did they ever find out who did it? The break-in?" She asked instead.
Riley rolled his eyes hard at that. "Kinda."
"Kinda?" Cindy echoed. "What does that mean?"
"They found the alleged identity of the person, but… it's like there's no recent trace of him anywhere."
"…That doesn't make any sense."
"You're tellin' me."
"How do they have the identity of the person, but no other information?"
"Please, be my guest and find out."
"What's the person's name?"
Riley scratched his head. "It was something weird. Dolan… something. Dolan Reynolds I think, or something like that. I dunno. The police keep saying 'alleged identity' because it might be a false match. The last stint this guy had was out somewhere in Nevada."
"Doing what in Nevada?"
"In jail I think."
"What?"
"Yeah. They're barely giving any information other than that because they don't really think this is a good lead. The shit is dumb, like pulling teeth."
"Damn." Cindy blew out a breath. "I'm sorry."
Riley slurped the last of his smoothie and set it back down loudly as he shook his head. "There's nothing you can do, don't worry about it. But on a lighter note, what are your plans tonight?"
"Huh? I mean, I'm not sure at the moment, wh-"
"I'm coming over."
"What? Why?"
"Uh, to hang? Why you think?" Riley shrugged. "It's been a week, I've given you the 'space' you wanted." He air-quotted, ignoring Cindy's slight glare. "Is there a problem?"
"No, but Landon will be over tonight."
"Tell him to save me a beer and a seat on the couch then." Riley said flippantly with a smirk, although it didn't reach his eyes.
"Riley…" Cindy fiddled with her straw, glancing down as she tried to form the words. "He doesn't know."
"Doesn't know…?" Riley raised an eyebrow. "What?"
"That we've talked since the night at the club."
"So tell him." He shrugged. "What's the big deal? We made up the next day and have talked since, so what?"
The look she gave him along with her silence caused his eyes to widen. "He doesn't even know that I apologized yet?"
"Not exactly?"
"Oh, so he was serious-serious about me not talking to you!"
"It's not like that, I just never told him about that day-"
"But why wouldn't you?" He cut her off. "Why wouldn't you just tell him that we talked and sorted things out?"
"Because he was upset and in a mood, I didn't want him to make a big deal about it."
"Are you that afraid of him getting mad at you?"
"I'm not afraid of him."
"What's the worst you think he could do or say to you, Cindy? I mean, really."
"Riley… I know." She glared hard enough to shut him up. "I'm aware that this is stupid. I was just trying to keep the peace. So do me a favor and forgive me for that."
Riley held her stare for a while before glancing away. "Yeah whateva." He mumbled.
"Thank you." Cindy told him, still staring at him even though he wouldn't look at her. She knew the worst was probably yet to come. "And Riley… Reezy…." She said again, giving him a look when he finally turned to meet her eyes at the sound of his nickname.
She blinked at him and softened her gaze even more as she stared at him. "I need you to do me one more favor."
As expected, the look she got in return after she asked was enough to make her skin crawl. It wasn't even anger. Just pure disappointment.
"You're kidding me, right?" He deadpanned her. "You've gotta be. You're not really serious on that."
"Reezy please." She continued softly. "I know that it's a ridiculous request but-"
"Ridiculous is an understatement-"
"But this is important to me." She spoke over him.
"I don't understand why though." He told her simply. "I really don't. Why can't you just have your own thoughts and opinions?"
"I do." She told him, trying not to glare.
"Then why are you so pressed about what he thinks? And why is everything that he thinks and have an opinion about more important than yours?"
Cindy closed her eyes. "Riley… again… I'm just trying to keep the peace. I want you two to be friends. And yes, I know that at this point it's a long shot and by no means going to be easy, but I'm trying here." She stressed to him. She reached across the table to gently cover his hand with her own. "Reezy, I'm only asking if you can please try too… for me."
"Don't do that." Riley groaned.
"Don't what?" Cindy gave him a look, pulling her hand back.
"The whole 'for me' thing. I can't stand that and you know it."
"What thing are you talking about?" She was genuinely confused.
"You know exactly what." Riley gave her a look. "Anytime you want something, you do this shit right here where you beg with that 'please, for me' line in that voice and you bat your pretty eyes at me while you touch my arm or my hand and then-"
"Do you really think so?" Cindy cut him off with a grin.
"That you do this? Yeah, I do."
"Not that." Cindy waved her hand. "That I have pretty eyes."
Riley blinked at her. "What?"
"You said I bat my pretty eyes at you." She grinned even wider, gazing at him. "Tell me, do you really think so? And does it really work? If so, I'll have to use this newfound power to my advantage more often."
Riley blinked at her again before making a show at glancing at his watch. "Oh, would you look at the time. Way past five minutes." He said dryly while he stood. "We could've had an actual lunch with all this time."
Cindy chuckled as she stood up as well, tossing her empty cup in the trash can closest to them. "You're probably right." She watched as Riley sunk his cup with a toss from where he was standing. "So I'll see you later tonight then?"
"We'll see. I've got some stuff to take care of. I'll probably head out now to get started."
"Done lifting already?" She teased.
"I'm fine handling my own routine, thank you." Riley grinned at her sarcastically.
"I bet." Cindy said, stepping over to wrap her arms around him. He wasted no time in hugging her back.
"Thank you." She said against him.
"I haven't agreed to anything yet."
Cindy took the opportunity to glance up at him, giving him a light smile. Riley glanced down at her, obviously trying not to react, but the tenderness in his eyes gave him away.
"I've gotta go." He told her gently, giving her sides a pat before slowly letting her go.
"Alright." Cindy smirked.
Riley's eyes glanced down, still noticing the way her arms were enclosed tightly around his waist. "Yes…?"
"Tell me first." She continued to smirk. When Riley crinkled his brow in confusion, she gave him the lightest of flutters with her lashes, still beaming up at him.
Riley let out a rumbly groan as he rolled his head up to the ceiling, making Cindy giggle. When he looked back down at her, he had a smirk of his own. She was taken by surprise when she felt his hands slide firmly back on her hips as he brought himself a little closer towards her.
"Don't ask me questions you already know the answers to." He murmured into her ear, right before softly pressing his lips to her temple. It was enough to make Cindy release her grip on him, feeling her face get hot right away.
And just like that, Riley removed his hands from her body and stepped away, a slight smirk still on his face as he turned on his heel.
"Later, C." He said simply without turning around. Cindy didn't respond, turning to retreat in the opposite direction at a moderate pace.
Whatever. She dismissed in her head quickly, crossing her arms as she walked. Tonight everything would be settled and they could move on. Hopefully.
As long as Riley didn't come to her house intoxicated….
….
Please don't show up drunk. She texted him as she walked back inside the main gym entrance.
I haven't said for sure that I'm coming. And even if I did, I can't promise you that.
Reez I'm serious.
So am I.
Cindy rolled her eyes as she shoved her phone back in her pocket, knowing she wasn't going to get anywhere else with him. She could only hope tonight wouldn't be a complete shitshow. And that Landon wasn't going to lose his patience with him entirely if it did start to take a turn.
"You okay, honey?"
"Hmm?" Cindy asked, turning towards him.
Landon gave her a look, turning down the TV slightly. "You just seem out of it tonight."
"I'm just tired baby, really." She told him with a shrug. "It was a long day."
"Was it a bad day?"
"Not particularly. Just long."
"I'd love to help take your mind off it." He told her, pulling her closer against his warm body.
"I'm sure you would." Cindy chuckled as she snuggled into him. She subtly reached for the remote to turn up the volume, taking note of the time as she turned back to the entertainment center. It was already after 10pm. And it wasn't the first hint Landon had given her that he wanted to start winding down with her for the night. She didn't know how much longer she could hold out if Riley was planning to show. He hadn't texted her since the gym.
"Baaabe," Cindy giggled when Landon started kissing her neck while his hands slid further south.
"What?" He murmured back in return, his hands still roaming. "I want you."
"I want you too, but don't you want to finish this sho-ooh!"
"No." Landon grinned, now having pinned her down on the couch.
"You're so bad." Cindy uttered, barely having time to say that much before his lips covered hers.
"This is my last night with you." He said in between his kisses. "I want to make it count."
"You always do." Cindy mumbled back. As promised, Landon had stayed with her for an entire week. She had never had a guy, or anyone really, stay at her place consistently for that long. It wasn't bad though. He always seemed to be home before her and eager to spend time with her. And he always made sure to make love to her every night. Cindy had never had this sort of treatment and attention before, so it was nice, but different at the same time.
Knock-knock-knock.
Cindy and Landon both started at the sudden knocks coming from her door.
"Who the fuck is that?" Landon asked, almost casually as he turned his head towards the door.
"Landon!" Cindy's jaw dropped with a smile. "I think that's the first time I've heard you curse like that!"
"Apparently something I do when I get interrupted from you." His eyes were still on the door as he pulled up from her. "Are you expecting someone?"
"No." Cindy lied, shaking her head as she started to stand. She was lightly held in place by Landon's arm as he rose as well.
"I'll get it."
"Babe really, it's not a big deal." She tried, not expecting the look she got in return.
"I'm not letting you answer that door this late by yourself." He told her firmly, not leaving it up for discussion as he marched towards the door. Cindy made a face as she shuffled behind him with apprehension. Landon's good mood seemed to be depleting at a rapid rate. And depending on how his mood was going to be, this night could turn to shit real fast.
Landon didn't even pause to glance out the peephole as there was another knock, louder this time when Landon was right at the door. He barely took a half a second to unlock it before he yanked the door open, revealing Riley to be standing awkwardly with his fist up, clearly ready to knock again.
"Riley." Landon said by way of greeting. Cindy was behind him so she couldn't see his face, but by his tone, it certainly didn't sound inviting.
"Landon." Riley replied evenly, his face devoid of emotion as he stared back at him.
"How can I help you?" Landon asked simply, crossing his arms as he continued to stand in the doorway.
"You can't." Riley quipped back, leaning his body past him to look in at Cindy. "She can. I need to talk to her."
"And why do you want to talk to her?" Landon pressed, still not budging from his spot.
"To apologize, obviously." Riley practically sneered through his clenched teeth.
"You know, you don't sound too sincere."
"Maybe because I'm talking to you and not her."
"It's a little late for this, don't you think?"
"To apologize to my best friend, I doubt it."
"Maybe you should come back some other time."
"And maybe you should ask your girlfriend what the fuck she wants."
"GUYS." Cindy finally cut in, taking a step forward to look at them both directly. She wanted to roll her eyes at the amount of time it took them to drop their pissing match and turn towards her. "I think we all need to take a breath, okay? It's not that serious." She told them, shooting them each a look.
Landon cleared his throat, turning away from Riley to face her directly. "Do you want to talk to him?" He asked, in a voice that definitely didn't sound like he agreed.
"He's already here. There's no need to drag this out any longer." Cindy told him simply before turning back to the door. "Say what you came to say, Riley."
He grinned a shit-eating smirk as he turned to Landon, who was now ignoring him completely as he stepped aside, allowing him to enter through the open door. Cindy did note the intense glare Landon gave to his back while he pushed the door shut behind him.
"Well," Riley began, the smirk still slightly on his face. "First I guess I want to apologize that it took this long. I wanted to come earlier but certain things prevented me from doing that." He said with an eyeroll.
"You're here now, so continue." Cindy told him bluntly. "And quickly, I'm tired."
Riley raised an eyebrow at that before another look slid onto his face, along with a mischievous glint to his eyes that Cindy was not in the mood for. In the next moment, he took two strides until he was directly in front of her and grabbed both of her hands. Cindy met his gaze suspiciously while he looked down at her with "sincerity."
Yeah right.
"I am so sorry for everything." Riley told her strongly, in a voice that had way too much feeling in it to be real. "With what happened at the club, with Tish, and my behavior there. I was completely out of line and completely wrong. I take full responsibility for that. Honestly, if I were you, I wouldn't have forgiven me either. And I know I have a lot of nerve even asking you to. But the truth is, it's been a long week without you Cynthia."
Cindy continued to glare up at him, trying to keep her expression solid. He was enjoying this. She could tell by the playful gleam in his eye as he said her name, trying to make her smile on purpose when he knew Landon was right behind him watching them both.
STOP. She gave him a look as she tried to communicate with her eyes, knowing damn well he knew that she wanted him to knock it the hell off. The way the corner of his mouth upturned in response was an answer all in itself.
"And I know that I'm being selfish again by halfway making this about me, but I can't help it." He continued, still hamming it up. "Going the week without talking to you is hard, girl. Shit, going a day without talking to you is hard. I need my best friend back."
Cindy had to bite down on her tongue hard to keep her expression in place as Riley suddenly dropped down onto one knee in front of her, still holding both of her hands and gazing up to her theatrically. "I'm so sorry I hurt you." He told her, his eyes flickering with amusement while he looked ready to break out of character at any moment. "I'll do anything to make it up to you, you name it."
She shook her head while she closed her eyes, hating him so much for trying to make her smile like this. He was such a brat. "I'll hold you to it." Was all she said, giving him another look as she met his eyes again.
"Does that mean you forgive me?" He asked, letting a grin appear on his face.
"As long as you promise not to try that shit again."
"You have my word." He told her, standing up and taking her by surprise as he scooped her off her feet into a big hug. "Mm, I missed you sooo much."
"Alright boy, damn!" She fussed at him while he nuzzled against her cheek. She could feel the slight shaking tension in his body, as he was definitely holding back laughter, which only made her want to laugh too. He was being so over the top and doing way too much. She crossed her arms and rolled her eyes after he set her down, not being able to contain her smirk. "You're hopeless."
"Hopeless without you, girl." He winked, not missing a beat.
"Well, I appreciate you coming to apologize. I'm sure Landon does too." She told him, turning to make eye contact with her boyfriend. She noticed the way Riley very reluctantly turned as well, somehow managing to keep a placid look on his face.
Landon had been watching them the two of them in quiet contemplation, no doubt finding their entire conversation off with all of Riley's dramatics. However if he did, he made no show of it as he turned to Riley and smiled immediately.
"She's right." He said simply, surprising Cindy with his easiness. "And I have to admit, I owe you an apology as well for being a little overprotective with her feelings last week. Can you blame me though?" He said with a shrug.
"Of course not." Riley replied at once, but Cindy could hear the trace of sarcasm in his tone.
"I'm willing to let bygones be bygones if you are." Landon went on. "I want to get to know you as her best friend. And a friend of mine too. Can we start over?"
Riley looked caught off guard by this as he made a quick and tentative glance towards Cindy. "Uh, sureee."
"Great!" Landon grinned at him, taking a few steps closer and holding out his hand for him to shake. Riley glanced down at it for a moment before forcing a grimace-looking version of a smile before accepting it. He was caught off-guard again when Landon pulled him into a quick bro-hug, giving him a light pound on the back.
"We're good. Sorry again, Riley." He told him, once he pulled away.
"Same here." Riley said back in return, still clearly not expecting the outcome.
"I'm just glad we're all on the same page now." Cindy told them both with a smile. "Maybe we can all hang out later this week?"
"That'd be really nice honey, we'll have to plan something." Landon agreed at once. "Anything in particular you'd like to do, Riley?"
"Uh, anything's fine I guess? I just like to chill." He scratched the back of his neck.
"Sounds good! Did you want to stay for awhile with us and watch a movie or something? I can make some popcorn if you want me too, baby." Landon asked, turning to Cindy as he wrapped an arm around her. She glanced back at Riley as he quickly shook his head.
"Nah, it's cool. I've gotta work early tomorrow anyway. The only reason I came down was to talk to her."
"Well, I appreciate that again." Landon smiled at him.
"Uh-huh." Riley's smile was significantly smaller and forced. "I'll catch up with y'all later, just text me if you wanna hang out or whatever. She's got my number."
"I sure do." Cindy smirked, stepping away from Landon to hug Riley goodbye. "Thank you for coming. We'll do something together this week."
"I hope." He said more-so into her ear. She gave him a nod as she pulled back.
"I'll see you later Riley. And thanks again." Landon told him, giving him another handshake.
"Yup." Was all Riley said, briefly returning the gesture while he used his other hand to open the door. "See y'all later."
"Goodnight." Cindy called after him as he slipped through. She closed it with a light sigh afterwards, locking the door behind him. When she turned back around, Landon was looking down at her with an interesting expression. She wasn't really sure what to make of it, so she shrugged a shoulder.
"That went well." She said, trying to gage his reaction.
"It did." He nodded, still seeming slightly off. "He's evidently very serious about his friendship with you."
"It's been over ten years, he better be." Cindy said lightly, stepping away from the door. "Let's finish the show."
"I almost thought he was going to propose to you for a minute there." Landon said from behind her as he followed her to the couch.
Cindy chuckled. "He certainly has a flair for the dramatic, doesn't he?"
"Not about you."
Cindy turned around to face him before she sat down. "Everything about Riley is dramatic. The more you hang out with him, you'll see that."
Landon didn't say anything as he took a step forward and slowly pulled her into his arms in a hug. Cindy crinkled her brow as she wrapped her arms around him. "Babe?"
"Hm?" He answered, leaning close to her and kissing her neck.
"What's wrong?" She asked again.
She felt him shrug as he continued to linger by her neck, playing with a few strands of her hair while he held her against him tightly. Cindy finally pulled back slightly to make eye contact with him.
"Honey, what is it?"
Landon gave her a steady look, a bit of intensity in his eyes as he stared at her. "If I'm being honest… I think he may still like you."
That caught her off guard. "Riley has never liked me like that. He only liked me enough to… hook up with."
Landon chuckled at that, making Cindy blush slightly at she stared at him in question. "I can tell you right now that you are definitely wrong about that. The way he acts with you… the way he looks at you… I think he liked you… probably even still likes you, a lot more than he's letting on. Maybe even more than he realizes."
Cindy began to pull back gently out of his grasp, crossing her arms as she suddenly felt uncomfortable and exposed. "If you really do think that he feels this way, you seem to be taking it really well."
Landon chuckled again, pulling her back into him by her waist. "Only because I know I don't have anything to worry about. He has his mediocre girlfriend and I have my incredible one, that obviously isn't into him like that. Right?"
Cindy nodded, wrapping her arms around his neck again while she forced a smile and pecked his lips, willing her thoughts to go away. It was more than enough for one night.
"Right."
Tish's POV
If what's-his-name hadn't been droning on and on for the past hour or so, she would've recommended her to her favorite masseuse.
Or maybe touched her to ask if she was feeling alright today.
Or, even better: inquired if she'd had her back blown out recently. Based on her current state, it appeared the answer to that question was a hard no.
The girl's back was rigid and had remained like that for the entire class period, poor thing.
Tish couldn't possibly imagine why as she continued to stare in delight at the back of Cindy's head, much like she had done for the entire class period. She couldn't have timed her arrival more perfectly. She had happened to enter the classroom right after Cindy had arrived, earlier than usual she noted to herself. An unfortunate mistake and one Tish was sure Cindy wouldn't make again. It had been almost too easy, sliding right into the desk directly behind her, making her presence known with the loud drop of her tote bag. When Cindy had initially turned around, it had been delicious the way she glared at her for the intrusion. And either way, she was fucked. If she stayed in her spot, she would certainly be miserable and unhappy. But if she dared to move, she would be fucked even more, by admitting that she was bothered.
So Tish had flashed a smile down at her, easily reading her mind from that loathing expression, but knowing she had won.
And then some. She thought to herself, glancing at her phone as it lit up. Tish didn't bother to move her phone as it vibrated loudly off her desk, noticing the way Cindy's shoulders tensed even more. Tish smirked as she swiped her screen to read her latest text:
Which building and number?
She kept her eyes focused on Cindy as she quickly composed her reply.
About ten minutes later and on schedule as usual, the professor glanced at the watch on his wrist and dismissed the class while he called out trivial reminders for next class.
Tish remained still, a grin on her face as she watched Cindy practically bolt from her seat, all her belongings already in her hands as she made her way out. Tish stood to her feet after, giving a leisurely stretch as she did so.
She wouldn't get far.
"I need a drink after that." Her friend Marcela announced as she approached her, books in hand.
"Shit, I need five." Destiny scoffed, right behind her.
"Martinis at The Belvedere?" Marcela suggested. "It's still happy hour."
"Sorry ladies." Tish shook her head. "I have plans this evening."
"With Esco?" Destiny raised an eyebrow.
"Naturally." She pursed her lips.
"You do realize you can have anyone you want, right?" Marcela told her flatly. "Anyone at all…."
"I know, and I have." Tish gave a noncommittal shrug.
"And yet you're choosing to be with him…?"
"While it lasts." She shrugged again.
"And will it?" Destiny challenged.
"Who are we to know that, sweetie?" She smirked, now finishing gathering her things as she began to saunter towards the exit, still at no rush.
"You do you, girl." Marcela said doubtfully from behind her, the two of their footsteps following behind.
Oh and I will. She thought to herself as she passed through the doorway. All she had to do was glance towards her left to see them. Together.
They were both standing just a few feet from the door, Riley grinning down at Cindy while she spoke to him, a surprised but happy expression now on her face.
It was almost laughable really. She had only been watching them for a short time, and in that moment she could see just how connected their relationship was. Their chemistry was practically palpable.
Hmm… that's enough. Tish thought to herself simply, the smirk still on her face as she sauntered over towards the two.
"Hey there, Esco." She announced as she approached. Her smirk grew at the way Cindy's head whipped in her direction, her posture tense again. Riley looked towards her easily at his name.
"Hey, what's u-" She didn't let him finish as she stretched up and gave him a wet kiss, running her nails down his back lightly while she kissed him. When she parted, she gave him one more teasing peck as she gazed up at him beneath her lashes.
"Hey." She quipped again with a grin, loving how hungry his eyes looked as he stared down at her. Only her.
"Girl…." He rested his hand dangerously low on the small of her back, his eyes still roaming over her in want. Tish glanced over towards Cindy, who was now busying herself with her phone as she adjusted the bag on her shoulder.
"Just text me if you're down for Friday or not, Reez." She told him, not taking her eyes off her phone as she started to take a side-step away.
"Aiight bet." He said in response, sparing her a haphazard glance. Cindy nodded before starting to turn completely.
But it wasn't about to be that easy.
"Cindy?" Tish spoke, surprising them both as Cindy paused and Riley snapped his head back down at her. "A moment?"
She watched the way she slowly turned back, her expression now completely blank as she stared at her, waiting.
"About the other night..." Tish tried to keep her smirk to a minimum, pretending to wince instead. "I've been meaning to tell you that was my bad, honey. I just got in a mood. Who wouldn't over him though, am I right?" She gave a casual shrug, lacing her fingers through Riley's while she continued to watch her reaction.
"Sorry I hurt you." Tish added for effect, making sure her voice sounded sympathetic.
She was a little disappointed by the lack of reaction as Cindy simply blinked at her in return. After a beat, she shrugged.
"Things happen." Her voice was calm. "We all make mistakes." She told her coolly, and Tish felt Riley's hand relax against hers.
"But Tish… honey," Cindy spoke again, her voice seemingly innocent in tone but deliberate at the same time. "Do yourself a favor and never make the mistake of putting your hands on me again."
Tish raised an eyebrow as Cindy spun on her heel and began marching away. She pulled her hand from Riley's as she crossed her arms.
"That almost sounded like a threat, babe." Tish called after her. "Just when I thought we were going to be friends!"
"It's not a threat if you mean it, babe!" Cindy raised her voice in response, but made no effort to turn around as she continued retreating down the hall. Tish didn't hesitate from lifting her middle finger at her turned back. Stupid bitch.
"Aye." Riley spoke, breaking her from her gaze. He had the nerve to look agitated. "Chill."
"Chill with me." Tish countered, sliding both arms around his waist. "That's why I asked you to come."
"Is it?" He questioned, but enveloped his arms around her in return.
"For the most part."
"And the other part?"
To ruin a certain bitch's day.
"What can I say?" She smiled at him. "I missed my man."
Caesar's POV
He stared at the recent and random text in confusion, not quite sure what to make of it off the bat. Especially considering who the sender was.
Cindy's tonight to chill… u down?
Now if it was Cindy herself sending him a similar message, no big deal. If it was Jazmine even, cool. Hell, a text from Huey, though probably a lot different in wording, would even make more sense.
But considering the recent circumstances… a text from Riley this late with no prior context was… off.
So he decided to call.
"Nigga, the purpose of texting is so we can avoid having a gay-ass conversation on the phone." He answered the phone by way of greeting.
"Dude, I'm confused." Caesar ignored him. "Cuz one… it's already 'tonight.'" He stated, checking the watch on his arm to confirm that it was well after 7pm. "Two, I haven't heard anything about hanging out at Cindy's house until just now sooo…."
"So what?" Riley replied dumbly.
"Sooo what's the deal? When was this discussed?"
"Is it really that serious?" He sucked his teeth. "She invited me over to hang out with her and her boy at her house tonight."
"Just you?"
"What does it matter? It's not like she said 'only you are allowed to come.' Obviously if Huey and Jazmine were here and not away at school, we'd all be invited like usual."
"Granted, but they're not." Caesar told him lightly. "Also, she didn't invite us both, otherwise she would've texted me herself. Which is why I'm asking, why are you inviting me?"
"You're makin' this hella gay, man."
"Do you think maybe she just wants you to get to know Landon better one-on-one?"
"Still gay."
"Reez, I ain't about to go back and forth witchu." Caesar rolled his eyes. "I also ain't about to bust in her house when I wasn't invited."
"Nigga please, when has that ever stopped you before?" Riley complained. "Come on man, I… ugh…" He slightly hesitated into the phone. Caesar remained quiet, waiting patiently for him to continue. "It's gonna be awkward if it's just me. I don't even know why she invited just me."
"I told you, probably to get to know her boyfriend."
"I don't need to know him all like that!" He grumbled.
"I don't know what you want me to tell you. I'm just sayin', that's probably her intent."
"So you ain't gonna come through then?" Riley demanded, and Caesar rolled his eyes while he tried to hold back his sigh. He was acting mad pouty about it. The nigga was pressed.
Which meant… maybe there was more to the story….
Sigh. There went his goal of staying out of people's businesses.
"Aiight. What time you wanna meet there?" He caved.
"I'll pick you up in 20 minutes."
"Who's bein' gay now?" Caesar snorted before hanging up on him, heading to his room to get ready.
Damn… he was glad he gave up on his previous goal.
Cuz this dynamic was interesting.
Caesar took a sip from his beer as he casually observed the room. Riley was not-so casually downing his second beer to keep himself busy, which was exactly why Caesar decided to drive them both instead of the other way around. Cindy had the same smile that looked way too forced/borderline uncomfortable while she diverted her eyes from her plate to the TV screen. Maybe she was distracted by Landon's hands, that hadn't seemed to stop touching her every time she was within arm's reach. That boy kept the same docile grin/smirk he had on his face since they got there.
"Hey Riley!" Landon had welcomed, rather enthusiastically as soon as he opened Cindy's door. "And hey Caesar, we didn't expect you to be coming tonight." He said with a smile on his face.
"I didn't expect to either." Caesar shrugged. "But I didn't have anything else to do tonight, so here I am. Hope y'all don't mind." He flashed a grin. Riley remained silent beside him.
"Oh, it's all good, man. Cynthia's just inside finishing up some tacos and we've got plenty of drinks to go around. Come on in!" He said, holding open the door for them to walk through. Caesar nodded and headed inside with Riley following behind. The food from the kitchen smelled amazing and he was immediately happy with his decision to come.
"Hey Cin!" Caesar called into the kitchen as he walked further into the living room.
"Ceez?" Cindy responded back, taking a few moments before she stepped out of the kitchen.
"Damn, why you all dressed up?" He asked, his eyes skimming over her short bohemian-looking romper. Her hair was pulled into a braided bun updo.
"I'm not, this is casual." She said, looking down at herself, even though Caesar had definitely never seen her wear it before. It didn't even look her style. "It's hot in here with the stove and stuff."
"I mean, you look good, I'm just sayin'. I just would've dressed up too had I known." He smirked.
"Boy whateva." Cindy rolled her eyes with a grin. "Hey Reezy."
"Sup." He finally spoke, giving her a head nod.
"If you guys wanna sit down, I'm just finishing up with the food and I'll bring everything out, okay?" She told them before stepping back into the kitchen.
"You need any help?" Riley asked. Caesar was about to offer too, until Landon came up behind them and patted them both on the back, startling them both.
"Nah, we got it. Sit, sit." He said, ushering them over to the chairs. Caesar sat down on the couch next to Riley, expecting Landon to head into the kitchen to assist Cindy, but instead he took a seat on the sofa diagonal from them.
"So, how are you both doing today?" He asked them with a grin as he leaned back in his seat.
"Good, man." Caesar said easily. "I was able to leave work a lil early today, got the weekend to look forward to, Thanksgiving's next week which means I'm about to feast… life is good man, praise God."
"I heard that." Landon let out a chuckle. "What about you, Riley? What's new in your world?"
"Chillin', man." Riley shrugged a shoulder. "Just work really."
"You boys get the day or week off for the holiday?"
"Thankfully, I only have to work Monday through Wednesday. Again, praise God."
"I'm only off for Thanksgiving Day."
"That sucks." Landon frowned slightly at Riley. "I'm off for the week, but I've gotta go out of town this Saturday evening and won't be back until late on Tuesday."
"Where you have to go?" Caesar asked.
"I don't even know man, it's like a last-minute conference for work for a few days." Landon brushed off. Caesar was going to ask more, but Cindy came from the kitchen with a spread of food, completely distracting his attention.
"Dinner is ready, boys." She said, holding two large platters in her hands. One plate full of tacos and the other with nachos surrounding a bowl of homemade dip.
"Have I told you lately that I love you?" Caesar said aloud, mostly to the plates of food as she set them down. He barely noticed Landon's glance towards him.
"Yeah-yeah." Cindy smirked before heading back towards the kitchen. "Help yourselves."
She didn't have to tell him twice. Caesar dove in first right away, followed by Riley. Landon didn't make a move for either plate, choosing instead to finish the rest of the beer he'd left on the end table. Cindy soon came back into the room in two separate trips, one bringing plates and napkins in the first, and in the second she came with another platter full of beer.
"Does anyone need anything else right now?" She asked, wiping her brow as she looked over the table.
"Girl, if you don't sit down somewhere and eat." Caesar told her, dropping a handful of nachos onto his plate. "You the real one for this, these are amazing."
"Thanks C." Riley co-signed, adding another taco onto his.
"No problem." She smiled, picking up a plate as she sat down next to Landon. She began to load up while Landon seemed to stare at the multitude of beer options Cindy provided.
"We have anymore of this one?" He asked, lifting his from his coaster and showing Cindy. The label looked fancy and top-shelf, Caesar had never had it.
"We do in the fridge. I didn't bring them out because there's only two left." She told him, scooping some of the dip onto her plate.
"Grab me one? I just finished mine." He "asked" her, setting his empty bottle onto the ground before popping a nacho into his mouth and settling back into his seat.
"Sure, honey." Cindy told him, not taking a bite before she stood again and set her plate down to head back towards the kitchen.
Umm…? Caesar tried to keep his expression in place, shifting back and forth to Cindy's retreating form and Landon's casual demeanor as he made himself comfortable. He managed to catch Riley's expression, which was a mistake. He looked pissed, sizing Landon up hard as he gripped the beer in his hand.
"So what do you wanna watch?" Landon asked amiably, not giving either of them time to respond as he slid the remote over. "You choose."
Man, Caesar hated when hosts did this. "Uh, do y'all have a preference?"
"Nope." Landon shrugged. Riley just tossed back his drink.
Great. Caesar picked up the remote out of obligation and headed to Netflix, beginning to sort through options. By this time, Cindy had made her way back into the room, extending the beer bottle to Landon. He barely acknowledged her as he took it, keeping his eyes instead on the television screen. Caesar could feel the heat of Riley's stare again, just in his peripheral view, which admittedly managed to stress him out.
"Y'all ever watch We Bare Bears?" Caesar asked aloud, already typing the letters into the search bar. "Don't start judging me, but I rock with this show. They're ten-minute episodes, super random, super funny, and something easy to eat and drink to. Sound good?"
"You're lame, bro."
"I've actually seen this show." Cindy grinned, turning her head to look at the screen.
"That's fine with me." Landon shrugged, now deciding to wrap an arm around Cindy, pulling her closer next to him while she finally started to eat.
It was weird, but Caesar didn't want to bother himself with it.
Evidently though, Riley did by the way he continued to watch them while he continued to toss back his beers.
By this point, multiple episodes of the show had gone by. It had seemed light for the most part thankfully, but there was barely any talking. Only snacking on the remaining bites of Cindy's meal and quiet snickering from certain parts on screen. Caesar wasn't particularly interested in staying too much longer. He was already full, had a long day, and the vibe seemed to wind down even more than it originally was. It seemed like soon would be a good time to dip out.
Landon's phone suddenly buzzed on the coffee table and he picked it up quickly, rising from his seat once he looked at the number. "Sorry everyone, I have to take this real quick." He said, starting to move his feet.
"Do you want me to pause it?" Caesar asked him. If so, this would be an even better time to try and—
"You don't have to do that." Landon waved him off, already about to enter down the bedroom hallway. "I'll be back."
Damn. Caesar slightly shifted his jaw. Oh well. It wouldn't be too much longer that he and Riley could leave—
"What the hell was that?" Riley muttered lowly, capturing both Cindy and Caesar's attention. Cindy raised her eyebrow at the way he was focused solely on her.
"Me?"
"No, him." He hissed in return. "'Get me a drink?'" He repeated with air-quotes.
Well, here we are. Caesar sighed, pausing the show anyway.
Cindy gave Riley an even more incredulous look. "What are you talking about? That happened almost an hour ago."
"I don't care if it happened five minutes ago. The fuck's wrong with his legs?"
"He only asked for a drink, Reez." Cindy gave him a look.
"First of all, he didn't ask. Second of all, it was fuckin' rude." Riley shot back. "I don't like that, he acted like it was your damn job."
"I don't know why you're making such a big deal over, again, a drink."
"Because the C-Murph I used to know wouldn't have dealt with that shit, Cindy. It don't matter what it is. But you don't see nothin' wrong with it." Caesar raised a brow slightly at Riley's vehemence. He wasn't joking at all, dead serious.
He could respect that.
Cindy stared at him, her face now appearing blank and her wall was up. "You're blowing it out of proportion, Riley."
"Nah, you're minimizing it." He told her, crossing his arms while he leaned back.
Before Cindy could respond, Landon's footsteps echoed the hallway again and he appeared back through the doorway. "Sorry about that." He said by way of apology. "Work."
"This late?" Riley surprisingly spoke, eyeing him while he lifted his beer to his lips.
"Yeah, with more info about my upcoming trip." Landon replied, not missing a beat as he sat back down. "Consider yourself lucky you don't have to travel for your job, Riley. All your clients come to you pretty much." He grinned.
"So lucky." The sarcasm was heavy in his voice.
"You said you work every day thiscoming week, right?" Landon said in return, out of the blue. "Do you have a good schedule at least?"
Riley seemed slightly caught off guard. "Uh, the next few days I work the late shift til about midnight. Then I'm off Thursday for Thanksgiving and doin' a morning shift on Friday."
"That's not too bad then. What about you Caesar?" Landon turned to him.
"I just do the day shift for the next few days, which I'm happy about."
"That's what's up." Landon nodded. "So you'll have plenty of time to hang out then. Are Jazmine and Huey coming back in town for the holiday?"
"Yeah, they're gonna get here on Sunday and stay until the following." Caesar nodded.
"Awesome, we'll definitely have to plan something then. You can even bring your girlfriends along." Landon grinned.
Ooh shit.
It wasn't a shot at Caesar, but by the way Riley tensed up beside him and the way Landon kept that grin on his face… it didn't seem so innocent. Cindy also looked hesitant as she stared at the side of her boyfriend's head.
"How are they by the way?" Landon continued easily, either not sensing or not caring about the tension.
"Mine's good, thanks." Caesar said evenly, wanting to just move past this random topic.
"What about yours, Riley? Cynthia told me about the break-in."
"Did she?" Riley said monotonously, shifting his hard gaze towards Cindy, who seemed to pinken a bit in return.
"Yeah, it's terrible." Landon continued, lifting his bottle to his lips. "Any leads on who did it?"
"Nothin' solid." Riley shook his head. "It is what it is."
"It'll all work out." Landon told him lightly. He turned to Caesar. "Do you want to start the show back up again?"
"Actually, Reez and I should probably head out soon." Caesar said, putting his empty plate down on the coffee table. "I almost forgot, I do have to help my mama with somethin' early in the morning and I don't wanna oversleep, y'know?"
"No problem man, it's cool." Landon shrugged, beginning to rise from his seat.
"We're so glad you got to come." Cindy smiled lightly, standing as well.
"Always, thanks for inviting and allowing me to crash." Caesar said, glancing back as he began to follow Riley to the door. He remained silent as he unlocked the door and even pulled it open a bit, turning back around with a blank expression on his face.
"Anytime." Landon grinned, not yet paying attention to Riley while he gave Caesar a slight bro-hug. Caesar watched Cindy over his shoulder while she eyed Riley, definitely noticing his guarded expression.
"Thanks for coming, Reezy." She told him quietly, stepping up to hug him.
"Mhm." He hummed back, but wrapped his arms around her waist tightly anyway. "Text me later." Riley told her lowly, but still loud enough for Caesar to hear him.
"Glad you got to come, Riley." Landon said, that same grin on his face as he was now right behind Cindy as they started to part. Judging by his quick answer, he had heard Riley too.
Riley gave him a level look while he extended his fist for dap, just as Landon took a step forward as if to hug him too. "No problem, thanks." He told him simply.
"You both are always welcome." Landon said easily in return, barely pausing to dap him. Caesar was slightly curious about the verbal gesture, but brushed it off. It was time to go.
"Y'all have a good night." Caesar told them as he gave Cindy a quick hug.
"Thanks guys, you too." Cindy said with a smile, holding the door open for them while they walked out. Both men were silent as they walked down the hallway, even after the door was shut. Caesar didn't mind as he stepped into the elevator, clicking the button for the ground floor. As soon as the door closed, Riley turned to him.
"What kinda shit was that?" He said at once.
Caesar sighed, turning to glance at him. "Which shit, Reez?"
"Which? Nigga, all of it!" Riley now had a glare. "I can't fuckin' stand that bitch."
"It's late and I'm tired, man. Can you elaborate a little more?" Caesar said as he leaned against the wall. He could admit, there were things that were definitely weird about the night. But he was interested to see what Riley was talking about in particular.
"Why the fuck is she into him?" Riley said with clear anger in his voice, not noticing the way Caesar raised an eyebrow. "She goes on and on about how he takes her places and buys shit for her… so? If he's gonna treat you like you're his bitch, is that really good enough?"
"The drink thing was weird, I'll give you that."
"Like she would ever put up with that shit if I tried to pull it on her." Riley rolled his eyes.
"Well one, you wouldn't." Caesar snorted. "And if you did, or even if I did, it'd be a joke."
"Nah, that nigga was dead serious. I don't like that."
Caesar gave a haphazard shrug again, not really knowing what to say. "I mean, if she doesn't like it, then she'll have to speak up about it. That's just how it is-"
"And what was that fuckin' comment when we were leaving?" Riley kept talking, obviously not listening.
"Which one?"
"'You both are always welcome.'" Riley mocked in an pretentious voice, making Caesar snicker as they exited the elevator. "First of all, shut up. Second, it's not his fuckin' house, how's he gonna act like he played a part in invitin' us?"
"Dude, I don't know. Didn't you say he sometimes stays at her place?"
"Yeah, but he's makin' himself way too comfortable. Like fall all the way back, son."
"Reez… I feel you, trust. But there's nothin' you can do."
"I can talk some damn sense into her." He mumbled in return.
"That's gonna make it worse."
"Nigga, you don't know." Riley sucked his teeth, his phone already out.
Caesar stopped walking as they stepped outside, giving him a look. "Reez, there's nothing you'll be able to tell her that's going to make anything better. She's only going to do something when she feels like doing something about it. You send her a shit-talking text about it and about him, you're only gonna make it worse. And push her farther away."
"So what am I supposed to do?" Riley demanded, bringing his feet to a stop while he looked back at him.
"Nothing. You can't fix shit for her. Let her come to you if she wants. But you're not…" Caesar trailed off, shutting his mouth as he began to walk as he brushed off his prior thought.
"I'm not what?" Riley pressed, following behind him.
"You're not going to make it better. She's gotta speak up for herself." Caesar fibbed, biting back his original statement.
Cuz he was definitely about to unintentionally say "you're not her man."
Cindy's POV
She could admit… she was getting slightly annoyed. Which was a first for them.
She just didn't understand. He had acted so easy-going and chill with her friends while they were there. He had even bought her this new outfit earlier that day when they were out, just to wear for the night. She had thought that it had been a good day.
But as soon as the door closed, Landon was just acting… different.
And not helping her, like at all.
Cindy tried not to glare as she began scrubbing another pan that she had used for the tacos. Landon stood leaning against the doorframe, looking away from her while he sipped yet another beer. He'd barely talked to her since Riley and Caesar left. He seemed irritated and she didn't understand. What the hell?
"Did I do something?" She blurted, not being able to handle the silence any longer. She felt herself slightly hold her breath by the slow way his eyes slid to look over at her cuttingly.
"What would you have done, Cynthia?" He said coolly, his face void of emotion.
"Nothing?" She answered in confusion. "Other than plan, cook, clean—"
"When were you going to mention that you invited Caesar without telling me?" He cut off her borderline sarcastic list, which was probably a good thing. But she didn't appreciate the tone.
"What do you mean, I didn't invite him."
"But he showed up."
"He does that. That's just him. And he's always welcome." She told him, trying to keep her tone level. "Why are you acting upset? You said to his face it wasn't a big deal and that you were happy to have him."
"It would've been nice to know is all." He said in return.
"Well, I can't let you know if I don't even know, babe." She said, trying not to roll her eyes as she redirected her gaze back to the sink.
Landon slowly made his way over towards her, setting his empty bottle onto the counter. Cindy was a bit unnerved by his demeanor as he kept that blank look on his face as he stared down at her.
"Is it something that's going to continue to happen? Especially when I'm away this weekend?" He asked quietly.
"Is what going to happen?" Cindy asked in confusion, dropping the pan in the sink as she turned to face him fully.
"Them coming over." He stated evenly.
Cindy gave him a questioning look. "They're my friends, Landon."
"Your male friends don't need to be here when I'm not."
"They have girlfriends."
"I don't care about that. They shouldn't be here without me here." He repeated, a bit stronger now.
Cindy gently placed her damp hands around Landon's, rubbing the backs of his with her thumbs. "Honey, I think you're making a lot more out of this than what it is."
"Am I?" Landon raised a brow. "That's interesting."
"It's really not." She furrowed her brow. "There's nothing to feel weird or uncomfortable about. Riley and Caesar are two of my best friends."
"Especially Riley, right?"
"Huh?"
"You know, I heard what he said about me while I was in the other room. Yeah." He said, slightly glaring down at her blushing expression. "He's supposed to text you later about me if I heard that right." He continued.
"Landon," Cindy tried to calm him.
"He doesn't respect me or us."
"Baby, that's not true. He's protective yes, but—"
"And apparently you don't either." He spoke over her, shocking her to silence.
"What?" She choked out.
"The day he came over last week… to 'apologize' to you." He rolled his eyes. "That wasn't the first time. You saw him the day after the club, when you went to see off Huey and Jazmine… even after I specifically asked you if he was there."
Shit. Cindy felt hot under his stare. "How… how do you figure?"
Landon continued to glare down at her. "That cologne I smelled on you… it wasn't from Huey. It was from Riley. He wore it the day he came over to apologize and again today."
Fuck.
"Babe… I promise… I didn't know he'd be there. And when he came over, right before I was about to leave… I didn't tell you because I didn't want to get you upset."
"So you decided to lie instead." Landon let out a humorless chuckle as he began to pull his hands away.
"Baby come on, I just didn't want this to happen. There is nothing going on between Riley and I. You have to believe me on that."
"How can I even believe that if you openly lie to my damn face?" He demanded, a bit of bass in his voice now.
Cindy felt her eyes welling in shame and embarrassment and blinked at him, willing away the tears. "I am so sorry. I was wrong."
"I don't want them here when I'm not here." He practically hissed at her, unbothered by her saddened expression.
Cindy heard the red flags ring faintly in her head but nodded anyway in silence. The lie was already there she knew, but it was not the time to argue with him when he was this upset.
"Especially not him." Landon added with even more venom if possible before he turned on his heel, striding out of the room.
Cindy brought her hands up to her face, catching the fresh tears that finally made their escape.
Riley's POV
He sighed again as he scrolled aimlessly on Instagram. Then Facebook. Then Twitter. Then his texts, which bothered him the most. His phone was dry.
The last real thread he had was with Tish after dropping her off at the airport this morning. She was vacationing again with her family for Thanksgiving. How people had the time and money to do a full vacation during the week of a busy holiday, he had no idea.
So there was that. She was away and probably wouldn't be texting him much. Then there was Huey and Jazmine who had come home for their break yesterday. He had texted them each a little, but didn't get far. Huey gave generic replies and then just stopped altogether, which wasn't surprising. Jazmine however was still acting weird with him about the last time they were home, which was annoying.
Granted, he did fuck her birthday up, but it was time to let that go and move on. Right?
Riley continued to scroll, coming down to her name. He had never texted her the way he wanted, the night he and Caesar left her place. He thought he knew what he'd wanted to say, but changed his mind. Especially after knowing it wouldn't really change much.
He was so frustrated with her. For dealing with that shit. For brushing off his concern. And damn, would it kill her to text him first every once in awhile?
"Reez, are you done?" Tito asked, stepping into the room.
"Been done." He answered, not glancing up from his phone.
"Why are you still here then?"
He almost said he had nothing to do and nowhere to go, but didn't want to look stupid. So he shrugged. "You didn't come in here and tell me I could go." He said, briefly checking the time on his phone. "It's not midnight, I still have like twenty minutes of my shift left."
"Like that's ever stopped you before."
"Do you need help with anything else while I'm here?" Riley asked him.
"Nah man, go home. It's probably gonna be slow this whole week with the holiday. Even on a Monday surprisingly." Tito shrugged.
"Okay. I'll be back same time tomorrow then." Riley told him, standing to go to the lockers where he kept his stuff.
"Aiight, be safe getting home." He said, causing Riley to nod as he entered the other room. He gathered his things slowly, not really in a rush to head home and do nothing this late. He wasn't tired and wasn't particularly hungry either. He just felt… restless.
And maybe a little lonely…. But he drowned out that thought by slipping his headphones over his ears before he headed outside. He bobbed his head as he walked along the path. He figured he could get at least one song in. He had to park his car in the lot around the corner, due to some construction on the main lot. He didn't want to take up space in the primary area (and also didn't want construction shit getting on his car), so he changed places for the day.
He hadn't noticed until he was closer. He had been too busy staring down at his phone. But once he looked up, the phone almost fell from his hands.
"HEY!" He barked, ripping the headphones off his ears to fall around his neck. "Get the FUCK away from my car!" He shouted as he darted over towards his car, surrounded by four men. Two in particular that were down on one side, already in the process of removing his rims.
The guy at the front stood from his squat near the tire, having the nerve to turn around with a smirk on his face.
"The rims are a bonus Freeman, we were waiting on you."
Riley's eyes flashed at that while he charged him, so close to slamming his fist into the son of a bitch's face.
However, he missed the guy on his left take a side-step while he swung a long steel object in his hand.
That smirk was the last thing Riley saw before it all went black.
The End….
Sike.
I play too much, I just did that in From Uncle Reezy, To Daddy Reezy (which if you don't already know, you should know that it's been updated as of just four days ago. Go check it out).
This chapter thouughhh. I had a lot of people asking about it, even on the other story lmao! Show of hands, who still is a fan of Landon? Asking for a friend ;) Yeahhh it's getting real, isn't it? Super interested to know your thoughts. Cuz this chapter had a lot of different components.
What's to happen next? With Cindy… the whole Landon situation… Thanksgiving's coming up… and of course, ya boy Riley.
Everything is starting to come to a head so we'll have to see where it takes us…
Disclaimers: Knocked out. Also I own nothing but this story and plotline.
Let me know what you think of the chapter! And thank you again sooo much for all the continued love and support for this story. Y'all are the real ones for keeping it going and keeping the motivation alive. It means so much honestly. Thank you.
More coming soon…
~Schweetie