"Okay, this isn't so bad" Nina said as she observed the backyard setting which was decorated with soft colors of white purple and silver .

Since she found out about her engagement party, she took matters into her own hands. She brought a lot of decorations to suit the occasion.

She even brought customized candy bars with her and Sebastian's name on it.

After approximately two hours of decorating, she finished her final touches. Overall, She was satisfied with the final look. Not to mention, it was a particularly a warm sunny day which was uncommon since it was winter season.

"Girl, you finna start getting dressed. It's 3:30 " Cassie said as she approached her.

"I was planning on getting ready around 4:00 since the party starts at 5:00," Nina recalled.

"True, but we told everybody else to come at 3 because we knew they would be late." She said. "They probably on their way now and I don't want nobody seeing you until I get your face beat" Cassie said, referring to the fact that she was doing her hair and makeup.

"I understand, but there's still a few touches I wanted to take care of" Nina mentioned.

Cassie looked around " Bye girl. This backyard look like a whole wedding ceremony. It's perfect, Go get dressed. I'll ask Rashad and Jermey to blow up some more balloons," she said in reference to her two younger brothers.

Nina sighs" Fine, I'll go hop in the shower and then once I'm dressed, I'll call you up"

"Okay boo, go upstairs and get ready " Cassie said, sounding like her mother.

Nina looked up, "OK, OK," she said on the way in. She passed by the kitchen where her aunt Cindy was preparing the food with her little cousins who were helping her.

"Niece, why aren't you dressed yet?" replied Cindy.

"I'm on my way to get dressed now Auntie" Nina said.

"Okay, let me know if you need anything. Is Cassie still doing your hair and make-up? " She asked.

"Yes. She just reminded me about it" Nina chuckled a bit.

"She isn't trying to charge you is she?" Cindy asked seriously.

Nina shook her head. "I offered to pay her, and she said no."

"Great, 'cause I didn't raise no selfish ass bitches. Y'all family. There is no reason to spend all your money when you have a cousin that can do it for free," said Cindy.

"Did you remind Sebastian to pick up some can sodas?" She randomly asked.

"Yes, Auntie, I did" Nina said.

"Good is his mother still coming?" Cindy asked.

"Yes, he's bringing his mother," Nina confirmed.

A bright smile appeared on Cindy's face " Awe that's great, I can't wait to meet her, " she said, trying to conceal her excitement.

Nina smiled "Yeah. You'd love her, she's incredible," she says frankly.

"I'm looking forward to it, now go get ready. Ima tell your uncle Riley to start the grill. It should all be ready by 4:30, " she says.

"Okay Auntie. I'm going to head upstairs now" Nina said.

"Okay, babe," said Cindy, carrying on in the kitchen.

"Aye! Junior did you clean those racks before putting that charcoal in my grill? "Riley hollered out.

"Yeah, pops, I did everything you asked me to do," Junior said as he started the grill.

"A'ight! You better not fuck my shit up! Let that shit heat up. Don't rush it like you did the last time! " Riley demanded.

"Don't worry, Pops, I got this " Junior said.

"Oh, A'ight Youngin" Riley said with a grin. "Ima kill this little nigga if he fuck my grill again," Riley complained as he approached Huey who was setting up the tent.

"You can always listen to your wife and start the grill yourself" Huey said.

"Nigga you think I had these kids for fun? " Riley asked.

"Apparently, since you treat them like they're your friends," Huey said.

"Wrong. I made those kids so they can do shit I don't feel like doing" Riley admitted which cause Huey to shake his head in disapproval.

He felt his phone vibrating in his pocket and decided to check it.

As soon as he saw who texted him, he rushed to click on the message.

Jazmine: Hey, about last night... Did I fall asleep on you?

Huey had initially planned to avoid talking to Jazmine, however he also didn't want to ignore her. He smirked as he answered.

You sure did, Sleeping beauty.

Jazmine: OMG! I'm so sorry 😅

Huey: It's fine.. What are you doing?

Jazmine: I'm waiting on your son-in-law... Are you going to attend the engagement barbecue?

Huey: I'm afraid so. I'm here now, helping out.

Jazmine: Oh, okay, I'm really nervous about this. I don't know if it's a good idea to attend, but simultaneously, I don't want to disappoint the kids.

Huey: Believe me, this was not my idea at all.

Jazmine: I know. I'm surprised you even agreed to come

Huey: I wasn't given a choice, but on a positive note. I get the privilege of seeing your beautiful face again.

Jazmine: Freeman..Are you flirting with me?

Huey felt his heart skip a beat. He knew he had went a bit far. He needed to push back a little, so he text back

Maybe, maybe not. It's classified.

Jazmine sent a laugh reaction to his message then she text back. :I love when a man knows what he wants 😉

Huey chuckled at her witty response. He proceeded to respond when he felt eyes staring at him.

"What" He frowned upon Riley, who looked suspicious at him.

"Who are you texting?" he questioned with a wide grin..

Huey placed his phone in his pocket. "None of your business "

Riley laughed. " You texting Jazmine aren't you?"

Huey immediately furrowed his brows. "Yes, but it isn't what you think. She was simply asking about the cook out"

"Mhm. Nigga you ain't fooling me. Y'all finna become a sneaky link"

"A sneaky, what?" Huey said, not fully understanding the term.

"Damn.. nigga you that old?" Riley asked.

"Yeah, apparently I only understand literate terms" Huey pointed out.

"Aight old head. Let me enlighten you. A sneaky link is when you having sex with someone in secret " Riley explained.

"Jazmine and I aren't going to have sex"Huey said.

Riley taunted," but... you're already texting in secret. It's finna happening soon later, "

"As I mentioned earlier, there is nothing going on between us. Now stop bringing it up. I don't want Nina to hear and get the wrong idea," said Huey, trying to let it go

"All I'm saying is you should just get it out of your system for one night, and then put it behind you for the sake of the kids," Riley advised,

"We've already decided to leave things in the past and sleeping with each other would only complicate things"Huey admitted.

"Nah gotta get it that temptation outta your system. You want that woman badly I can see it in your eyes when she texts your phone. If you continue to prolong it, y'all going to drive yourselves crazy " Riley said.

Huey sighed. "You and I both know there's more than temptation involved, which is why its best for us to leave it alone. This entire situation is stressful enough and I would really appreciate if you stop talking about it. " He said, getting annoyed.

"A'ight. I'll stop talking about it, but you know I'm right," Riley said, leaving the situation alone.

Huey didn't say a word. He pulled out his phone and text Jazmine's back while Riley snickered at him.

Huey: DuBois.. You wouldn't be flirting with me now. Would you?

Jazmine: I'm not that crazy to flirt with a man I hardly know

Huey: Is that so? I could have sworn that we had met before.

Jazmin: Hmm... Perhaps in your dreams?

Huey: Or perhaps you could use some enlightenment.😉

Jazmine: Enlightenment of what?

Huey: What you've been missing..

Jazmine's bit her lip of excitement as she attempts to respond to Huey's flirty message.

"Ma, who are you texting?" asked Sebastian, looking at her with a snide smile.

Jazmine shuddered as he had spooked her. Her freckled face blushes of embarrassment. "Oh, it's nobody, baby." She said, putting her phone away. "An old coworker wished me a good year, that's all", she laughed nervously. .

Sebastian raised his brow with interest. "Oh, okay. Is that your new man or something? "

"Absolutely not! You know I haven't got time for that," said Jazmine. "Now Stop questioning me, boy.

She cleared her throat.

"Is that all the food?" She asked, referring to the aluminium pans she made.

Given she already knew Cindy would serve fried chicken, hot dogs and hamburgers. She thought it would be nice to have a few dishes that a vegetarian as she can appreciate.

She made baked Mac and cheese, potato and seafood salad. She prepared some shrimp skewers (Huey's favorite) with vegetables that can be thrown on the grill.

She even made some Jack Daniel's Chicken wings for the meat lovers.

"Yes, Mama, it's all loaded up," said Sebastian, feeling exhausted that he had carry the food to the car.

"Is there anything more in there?" Sebastian asked, hoping she would say no.

"No, it looks like you have it all. " She confirmed. "Thank you, darling. You are so sweet to carry all this by yourself," Jazmine said in appreciation.

"It's not like I had a choice," Sebastian muttered.

"What was that baby?" Jazmine asked.

Sebastian laughed nervously "I said you're welcome, " he said, not wanting to be cursed out.

It was 4:30 and the Freeman's extended family arrived at last. It didn't take long for the complaints to come.

"Sorry we're late, there was traffic. "

"Where the food at? I'm hungry"

"Yeah, I ain't eat all day Fam"

"Y'all got some liquor? I'm tryna turn up for little cuz"

"Ooh y'all is fancy with these decorations"

"Aye! Wassup fam! Hate to break it to yall, but y'all The food not ready until 5" Riley yelled out.

"Five?, " one of his relatives scoffed loudly. "You said it starts at 3 p.m.!" she exclaimed.

"Exactly and it's an hour and half late and y'all just getting here, which is why we lied in the first place" He said which caused an outrage.

"Oh hell no! I'm about to order me some Popeyes then until the food ready " she said

"I don't care what y'all do! It starts at 5," said Riley. "Ayo Junior, play some music! it time to turn up, " he said as junior started the stereo.

When the music started, Cindy came out with the refreshments and drinks, placing them on the tables. An hour past and the party had gone, lost its elegance. It was like a House party. Everyone was dancing wildly, hollering, smoking, arguing while playing dice. Kids were running around uncontrollably.

Huey shook his head in disappointment. This is why he never attended his family event.

Niggas didn't know how to act.

He stared at his phone. Looks like Jazmine left him on read. What is something he said? He thought foolishly. He wanted to text her again, but felt it would seem desperate.

Not to mention, she was on her way. He just hoped his family didn't blow their cover. Back in the day, when he and Jazmine used to date. His family knew he had a girlfriend, but none of them met her because his grandfather didn't like visits from family. On top of that, he was a very private person. He didn't want everyone in his personal business.

On the other hand, he once mentioned her to his aunt Cookie who was attending the cook out.

She had become fairly old over the years and can barely remember some things, so he wasn't too worried.

His thoughts came to a halt when he heard people screaming and clapping.

He glanced to see that Nina came out looking like a supermodel. She was in a lavender sparkling sweetheart tulle dress with detachable bow sleeves. Her hair was styled in goddess braids while her make-up and nails were done professionally.

Everyone photographed her as they praised her. Nina had an unpleasant look on her face. Huey knew that face meant she wasn't too pleased with the atmosphere. But when she saw the love she received, it made her feel better.

"You look so beautiful," said Huey when he came up to her.

"Thank you Dad," she said with a smile.

"You're welcome sweetheart " He said as he kissed her forehead.

"Dad..." said Nina, standing awkwardly.

"I know " He said, knowing his daughter was embarrassed.

"Awwww! That's sweet! Nina come take a picture with your daddy" Aunt Cookie said out the blue with her camera.

Huey couldn't believe how strong and energetic she was in spite of her age.

"Come on, nephew, pose with your little girl," she said, raising her camera.

Huey hated taking photos, but for his daughter, he would make an exception.

He stood beside her while Aunt Cookie took the picture. "Huey, does it hurt you to smile a little?" Cookie complains as she photographs them.

"Okay, now where's the fiancée?" Aunt Cookie said, referencing Sebastian, who was currently five minutes late.

"Let me find out he's getting cold feet already," One of Aunt Cookie's granddaughter said.

Nina glared at her looking like her father.

"Is the food done yet? I'm tired of eating fruits, crackers and cheese" one complained.

"Yeah, this some white people shit" another commented.

"Y'all as soon as Sebastian gets here we go serve. Sorry about the delay," Cindy said, and then she whispered to Nina.

"Have you heard from Sebastian yet?" She asked in a worried tone.

"I'm going try to text him now" Nina confirmed.

"Okay, in the meantime, ima start serving the burgers and hot dogs maybe that'll hold them up" Cindy said as Nina sends Sebastians a text message.

It was now 5:10 p.m and Sebastian and Jazmine had finally made their way to Nina relative's house. They just couldn't stop themselves from feeling anxious.

As Sebastian felt nervous about meeting Nina's extended family, Jazmine was overcome with fear and excitement. She was afraid that Huey's family would recognize her and she and Huey cover would be blown. Then she became excited to see her old friends again. She and Cindy were best friends, however, after the break-up with Huey, Jazmine distanced herself because she was too heartbroken.

Cindy and Her tried to stay in touch throughout the years, but then they drifted apart due to life differences. Jazmine hopes that when she sees her again, she'll have no hard feelings. She also hopes that Riley does not speak about their former relationship. He had a habit of blurting out things, especially when he was high.

Sebastian felt his phone vibrate.

Nina: Babe, what happened to you? Everyone giving me judgmental looks!

Nina: You're late!

He responded right away. Sorry, babe. I had to get the sodas and was held up in the store. We're here now, making our way in.

Nina: okay, please hurry up!

"Are you alright, baby?"

Jazmine asked, staring at her son with concern.

He sighed profoundly. "We're late. Everyone is waiting for us. He couldn't stand being late. "I bet Mr. Freeman is shaking his head right now,"

Jazmine wanted to laugh because she knew Huey will probably make a remark about his tardiness.

"Well, I'm sure they'll understand. At least , we didn't come empty handed," Jazmine remarked.

"Speaking of, we're gonna need a little extra help with this. You might want to text Nina. Perhaps one of the male relatives can help," suggested Jazmine.

"Ma, I'm a man! I got this," Sebastian said confidently.

"I raised a man, not an octopus. Go on now! Don't make your mama ask twice" Jazmine said sternly.

Sebastian sighed; " Fine, Ma I'll ask." He said as he proceeded to text Nina.

Meanwhile Jazmine received a text from Huey,

Is everything alright?

She smiled at his concern. Yes, we're outside, but I made some food trays. We could use a little help.

Huey: Okay, I'm on my way out now.

Jazmine panicked and responded. Wait. Don't! It may look suspicious if you come out. Sebastian is asking Nina to get someone to come help as we speak.

Huey: Okay, I'll wait until she mentions it and then I'll offer to help.

Sebastian's raised his brow at his mom who was seem to be focusing on her text messages. He found it odd that she was texting. She never was the type. She always preferred talking on the phone or video-chat.

"Ma, you good?" He asked.

"Yes! Um.. I was just sending your grandmother a text. She was a little annoyed that she and Dad weren't invited to the engagement party, but I assured her it was a last-minute thing." Jazmine lied.

"Dang, I feel bad now" Sebastian said. Feeling guilty.

"You shouldn't feel bad, baby. Your grandparents understands that this event wasn't planned. They said they'll make it to the next event" Jazmine said, making a mental note to tell them about it later.

"OK, good," said Sebastian as he got out of the car.

"Ayo! Sabass! " Junior shouted as he and Huey approached the car. "How you late to yo own party?" He smirked as he and Sebastian exchanged hand gestures.

" My bad, June. We got stuck in traffic " Sebastian said.

"It's all good. At least you hear now" Junior said, but then his eyes widened like a kid in a toy store.

"Dammmmmmmmmmmmn!" He said as Jazmine emerged from the car. "Who that?"

"That's my mama" Sebastian revealed as Junior looked in disbelief.

Huey looked to see Jazmine looking more impeccable than ever.

Her skin was radiant and chiseled as she had no make-up. Her hair shined while her natural curls gracefully adorned her stunning face. She was wearing a white strapless jumpsuit that perfectly clasped her magnificent hourglass figure.

It was living evidence, she was the sexiest woman he laid eyes on.

"Damn.. Your mama is a baddie " Junior whispered Sebastian.

"Yo chill cuz. That's my mama you talking about"Sebastian said, trying to play it cool. He didn't like anyone making comments about his mama.

Jazmine observed Junior and smiled "Hello, you must be Riley Jr? Sebastian has spoken very highly of you," she says, thinking he looked so much like his father.

"Yes Ma'am. That's me" Junior said with a wide grin on his face.

"I'm Jazmine, it's a pleasure to meet you," Jazmine said kindly,

"It's a pleasure to meet you too sexy thang" Junior said, licking his lips. Sebastian glared at him and was ready to say something, but then suddenly Huey smack Junior upside the head.

"Ow! Uncle Hue. What you do that for!" Junior said, rubbing his head in pain.

"It's Ms. DuBois to you. Show some goddamn respect," Huey said harshly.

Junior rubbed his head. "Dang uncle Hue, I was only playing with her, "

"That's a grown woman, you don't play with her. You hear me?" Huey scolded him.

"Yeah. Uncle Hue. I hear you clearly, " Junior said, feeling embarrassed that he was a young adult still getting scolded by his uncle.

But he knew better to know that his Uncle Huey didn't care how old you were. If you acted a fool, he'd knock some sense into you.

Huey didn't play about showing respect, especially towards the woman he loves.

"Now apologize to her, "Huey demanded.

Junior didn't like being told what to do, but he wouldn't dare disrespect his uncle Huey. "I'm sorry . Ms. DuBois. I didn't mean to disrespect you. It's nice to meet you too," He said respectfully.

"No worries sweetie," Jazmine said, she thought it was cute that Junior shared the same traits as his dad.

Huey lightens his throat, attracting her attention.

"Nina said you could use some help? "Huey said, trying to sound serious, His eyes were already lost in Jazmine's beautiful ones.

Jazmine stared at him, he looked so good she thought.

"Yes, if it's not too much trouble?" She said softly.

"Of course not, " He said gently.

Jazmine smiled brightly at him. "Thank you, "

"No problem," he gave her a little smile that only she could see.

They stared at one another once again until Sebastian broke the silence,

"The food is at the back," Sebastian said opening the door. He grabbed two food trays while a Junior and Huey grabbed the others.

Jazmine tried to grab the case if sodas, but Huey wouldn't let her carry anything.

"After you, Ma'am," said Huey, letting her walk in front of him.

Jazmine looked at him, loving the intensity of his muscles in bearing the heavy weight.

"What," he said, secretly relishing the look in her eyes.

"Nothing," she said, turning her heel to walk past him,

Huey couldn't stop himself from staring. The way her ass moved when she walked, it drove him insane. He wondered what kind of panties she wore to keep it all together. In a way it felt like she was teasing him, showing him exactly what he had missed out on.

And he had missed it desperately. He shook his dirty thoughts. He needed to set himself straight. This day was about his daughter, nothing else.

Jazmine felt the warmth on her cheeks as Huey walked behind her. She could not help but notice that the attraction between them was growing, which would make this night much more difficult.

Therefore, she needed to be strong. Tonight was for her son, nothing more.

To be continued.