Wednesday, September 30, 2015

Dear Diary...

'Dear Diary,', you write remembering just how terrible your date was last night. 'I'm so tired of dating. Guys are all so fake. All they want is pussy'. You sigh deeply. 'I'm tired of wanna-be's, up-tights and dudes that take themselves way too seriously'. Your text alarms. It's the wanna-be from last night. 'Shorty last night was DOPE! HMU so we can chill'. The smirk emoji soon follows. You wanna vomit. "Never in a million years", you think out loud as you delete that text and his number from your phone. You haven't had a decent date in months. You are ready to give up on men and propose a long term commitment to your vibrator. It's been damn near a year since the last time you had sex and things aren't looking very promising. You glance out the kitchen window as you sip your morning coffee. You watch a couple walk down the street hand in hand and smile. You long for that...love. Plain and simple. No games, fanciness or bullshit. You pick up your diary and continue. "Diary, is what I want really that difficult? All I want is love. Love with a sweet guy that loves me for me". You close your diary and continue to people watch as you sip your coffee.
After work, you stop by the local farmer's market to get some fresh fruits and veggies for the week. You wander around and stumble upon some honeydew melons. They are your favorite melon. You didn't realize they were in season so you are a little more excited than you probably should be. I mean the sight of fresh honeydew shouldn't make you this damn happy. You pick up a melon and squeeze it. "Too soft", you murmur to yourself. You pick up another and sniff, "Ew!". You hear a chuckle next to you. You ignore it and continue to look for that perfect melon but can't help but feel someone's eyes on you. You glance to your right. You see a guy smiling at you...he's kinda short but he's cute. You quickly look around assuming he's looking at someone else but then, he speaks to you. "You know, I've always wondered how you find a good one". You place the melon down and smile shyly. "Oh...uh", you start. He steps closer. "I mean its a melon. You can't see inside right?". You chuckle awkwardly. He's cute - curly black hair, perfect smile with accentuating dimples. He looks Puerto Rican...maybe. "Yeah but you can tell by other characteristics - like how it feels and how it smells". "Really?", he asks raising his brow and moving closer to you. "You know, I never would have thought of that". He's standing right next to you and smiling. You become very aware of the fact that you just came from work and probably look a hot mess. You quickly run your hand through your hair praying it looks decent. There isn't much you can do about your outfit though. You changed your scrub top for an old tee shirt quickly after work since you had to make a stop. He continues to smile at you. His dimples are making your knees buckle. "Fruit is fascinating", he admits looking directly into your eyes. You smile back and laugh, "Yeah, I guess it is". You continue looking for that perfect melon and making small talk with the sexy, curly haired, dude next to you. You find one and reluctantly make your way to the cashier. "Well, it was nice talking fresh fruit with you". He laughs, "Yeah, definitely the most interesting conversation I've had today". You pay for your groceries and begin to walk away. "Enjoy your evening", you wave. He yells back, "You too". You grin all the way home. After you shower, you pull out your diary and write about your experience while you nibble on your melon. 'Now why can't guys like him ask me out?', you wonder as you write. 
It's a beautiful Saturday morning. You're off, so you decide to head out for a walk before starting some errands. You stop for a coffee at one of your favorite outdoor cafés. As you sit, soaking in the warm rays of the sun, a voice whispers behind you, "No melon today, huh?". You open your eyes and turn around. It's the cutie from the market. He leans close over your shoulder so that you are both cheek to cheek. He smiles at you giving a flirty wink. Turning to face him, you take a second to study him. Flawless butter pecan skin with a hint of morning stubble. His brown eyes reflect the sunlight and you try your best not to get lost in them. You cave and break the tension. "Hey", you say smiling. He stands and smiles back, "Hey back at'cha!". You notice him quickly glance at the empty seat across from you. 'Oh my God he wants to sit with me', you squeal inside like a 12 year old middle school girl. "Please have a seat...if you'd like", you gesture. "Thanks!", he accepts sitting but never taking his eyes off of you. You can feel yourself beginning to blush. "Funny seeing you here", you state trying to find your chill. "Yeah. I was on my way back from my boy's place when I saw this beauty sitting over here drinking her coffee". That did it, your cheeks are stinging you're blushing so hard. He continues, "Then, I thought to myself, I don't even know her name". You smirk realizing the same. Placing your coffee down, you extend your right hand and say, "My name is Nikki. Pleasure to meet you". He slowly brings your hand to his lips and kisses it. A chill runs through your body as he glances up at you and says, "The pleasure is all mine Nikki". You are pretty sure your mouth is open so you make a conscience effort to close it. Slowly removing your hand you clear your throat and ask, "And you are?". He smirks. "I'm Peter but nobody calls me that. Everybody calls me Bruno". You raise your eyebrow. He doesn't look like either. "Bruno?", you ask. Chuckling, "Yeah, I was a chubby kid. Long story". You laugh, "Ok. I'll take your word for it". He smirks up at you reveling those perfect dimples. "I can't imagine your fine ass ever being chubby", you let slip. You freeze. 'Oh FUCK. Did I just say that out loud?!', you cringe. He looks a little surprised at first then smiles wide. 'Damn it', you mentally kick yourself. You close your eyes tight and hope he just let's that slide. "Ha, ha, ha! Well thank you". Your self control has a tight hold on your lips. You smile and don't say a word. 
Silence falls between you. Bruno smiles at you and your face flushes. He notices and says, "You're blushing". Your body temperature increases five degrees immediately. You have no idea what to say so you stay silent and sip your coffee. Silence persists, as does his preoccupation with staring at you. You make an attempt at conversation. "So, Bruno, tell me about yourself. What do you do? What do you like?...other than honeydew melons". His eyes light up, "I'm a musician. I write songs. I sing and produce. You know, shit like that". You nod and smile, "Sounds like fun! I love music!". "Me too! Music is my life man! It's always been all round me". "How so?". Bruno explains how he comes from a musical family. He goes on and on about fond memories from his childhood. While he reminisces, you are able to calm yourself. You begin to notice his personality, charm and raw passion for what he does. "So how about you? You sing Nikki?". "HA! Nah!! You don't wanna hear me sing. TRUST ME! I'm a fan of music but I have no musical ability. I'm a nurse". "Oh nice! Couldn't do that. Admire those that do though". "I love my job. It's trying at times but I wouldn't trade it for the world". He smiles at you with sincerity. A moment of silence passes then, "So, we got this gig tomorrow at a pub nearby. You should stop by after work. We go on at 9:30". "Sure! Sounds like fun. I just may stop by". You glance at your watch and realize you've been sitting here for quite a while and you haven't started any of your errands. "Well Bruno, it was very nice chatting with you but I have to get going". He stands as you do. "Oh, ok". He walks you out to the front of the café. Bruno looks nervous as he shoves his hands in his pockets and looks down. You feel like he wants to say something to you but doesn't know how or what. You save him by tapping his arm and saying, "This was fun! Maybe we could do it again sometime?". His expression and body language relaxes. "Yeah, I'd really like that". You turn to leave and he yells, "See you tomorrow...right?". You hear the hope in his tone. Smiling you nod. He grins wide as he walks down the street. 
Your shift flies by and you're glad because you can't wait to see Bruno tonight. You run home and shower. Standing in front of your closet, you try to plan the perfect outfit. You think to yourself, 'I wanna look cute but not like I'm obviously trying to look good for him". After a few minutes you realize you're not making any sense. You throw on your jeans, a cute top and some flat strappy sandals. You put a little curl in your hair, apply some lip glass and head out the door. You arrive a few minutes before they go on. Bruno sees you and gives you a big smile and a wave. He can't get free at the moment but you can tell he's glad you came. You both continue exchanging glances as you find your way to an empty table. Looking around you see the place is beginning to fill up. 'They must be pretty good', you think to yourself. At the same time, you feel someone staring at you. You turn around to find a VERY handsome guy smiling at you. "Hi beautiful", he starts. He's sexy as hell. Mocha brown complexion, deep dimples and a panty melting smile that's making you wet. "Hi", you reply with a shy smile forgetting all about Bruno for the moment. "Please forgive my staring but I couldn't help myself". He reaches for your hand and caresses it. You look away blushing. You turn back to find Bruno standing next to your brown, handsome hottie. "Oh Phil, I see you met Nikki". Your hottie's face changes instantly and he let's go of your hand. Looking apologetically at Bruno he says, "Ohhh!! This is Nikki". Bruno smirks slightly annoyed. "Nice to meet you. Bruno said you might stop through tonight. Glad you could make it". You smile. Evidently, Bruno's been talking about you. "Nice to meet you too...Phil is it?". Bruno pipes up and makes a proper introduction. "Nikki this is my boy, my ace, my big brother Philip but everybody call him Phil". Philip yells out, "Philsmeeze in da hoooouuuuusssssse" and they both burst out into laughter. It's in that moment, you can tell they are very close. Someone calls out to Bruno and he leans close to you and whispers, "Aight, gotta work. Hope you enjoy the show". They both sprint to the stage happily. 
They take the stage and start the introductions. You clap enthusiastically for your...your...well for Bruno. They do a few covers and you are impressed. Bruno has an amazing voice and Philip does as well. Dude on the drums is killing it too. You order a drink and some nachos just as they take a break. Bruno, Philip and the drummer (who looks a little like Bruno) pull chairs up to the table as the waitress heads over to take their orders. Bruno grabs a nacho and winks at you. "Don't mind if I do", he laughs. You playfully smack his hand. Philip also grabs one. You smack his hand too. The drummer looks like he's starving but clearly he is the most polite of the trio and keeps his hands to himself. You offer, "Want some?". "Sure", he accepts taking one. The waitress takes their orders and heads back to the bar. "Oh, Nikki this my big brother Eric. The baddest drummer in the land". He smiles and extends his hand, "Hey, nice to meet you. Glad to finally meet this Nikki that my brother won't stop talking about". He smirks and Bruno's face turns beet red. Philip laughs, "Ah ha!! He HAS been talking about you a lot". Now your cheeks are stinging from embarrassment. "Really y'all?! Just gonna put my shit out there like that?". Philip and Eric look at each other and nod. "Yeah", they respond in unison then burst into laughter. You giggle at the antics of the 3 Stooges sitting in front of you. Bruno looks at you and smiles uneasily. He tries to explain as the waitress arrives with their food and drinks. "Well, I guess I have mentioned you a few times". You smile shyly and look away. He tries to change the subject. "Here, I owe you a nacho", Bruno says placing a loaded nacho to your lips. You bite it and it breaks spilling its contents everywhere. "Sorry", you laugh with sour cream all over your lips. Bruno grabs a napkin and begins to wipe your mouth. "It's cool", he whispers as he stares into your eyes. You look down for fear he sees just how turned on you are right now. Philip looks down at his watch and gestures to the stage. "Let's get back at it guys". Bruno smiles at you and takes a big sip of his drink, "You're staying right?". You nod, "Of course! I'm a fan". He smiles and hustles to the stage.
Their second set is just as amazing as their first. No covers, all original songs written by Bruno and Philip. The first song is very catchy. You think it's called "On Top of the World". You can't help but get up and dance with everyone else. Bruno is giving it his all and you love it! He looks over at you frequently and smiles. After a few fast tempo dance songs, things get a little more sensual. You are feeling the beat of this song and begin to wind your body in response. Bruno's eyes are on your body as he sings, "Press your body, on my body". At this moment, you want to do just that. His eyes finally find their way back up to yours. Winking he continues, "Girl you're the only thing that I see. So don't you take your body from me". You blush and look away. You want him BAD. Your panties are stuck to your lips and your love is leaking. You return to the table and sip your drink to try to cool the flames stirring below. It's not working. The music ends and the small crowd explodes into cheers. The guys make their way through the small crowd of pub goers wanting pictures and dap. Finally, they make it back to the table. You're expecting them to be exhausted after all that raw energy on stage but they aren't. You stand and clap, "You guys are AWESOME!! Seriously, I had no idea what to expect but WOW you guys are so very talented". They all look down humbly and say thanks. Sitting back down you inquire, "Are you guys signed to a label? If not, you should be". Bruno pipes up, "Yeah Atlantic Records just picked us up. We wrote a couple songs for a few of their artists but I'm hoping to get in the studio myself and record an album". "You should", you encourage. "You sound amazing Bruno", you compliment as you lightly stroke his right arm. Philip clears his throat. You look over and laugh, "My bad guys. You ALL sound amazing". 
It's getting late and the pub is closing. You've been hanging with the guys all night and you have throughly enjoyed yourself. The guys help the staff place the chairs on the tables and pick up trash. You decide to help out too. Before long, you are all heading out the door as the owner locks up for the night. Standing in front of the pub, Eric says his good nights and heads home. Philip stands around with you and Bruno making small talk. Bruno keeps looking over at Philip as if he's trying to get him to leave. Bruno clears his throat loudly and Philip finally gets the hint. "Uh, you know, I should head home. Got somethings to do". He gives you a friendly hug and you catch a whiff of his intoxicating scent. Your love drips a little more. "Good night Philip", you manage trying to maintain your composure. He gives Bruno some dap then heads down the sidewalk. It's just you and Bruno. You give him a coy smile, "Bruno I had a great time tonight. Thanks so much for inviting me". "Yeah tonight was a lota fun. Crowd was pretty hype and so were you". He nudges your arm a bit. "I saw you dancing". "It was hard not to. You guys were jamming". He looks down and smirks, "Thanks". You notice he's stepped closer to you. "I should get going Bruno. It's late. Thanks again...", you start to walk away but he stops you. "Well, let me walk you home. It's late. I wanna make sure you get back alright". You beam from the inside out. You can't remember the last time a guy has walked you home. "Ok", you concede without a fight. You begin walking home with Bruno close at your side.Your pace is slow as is his. You really don't want this night to end so you take the long way home. It's been too perfect. Bruno strolls next to you quietly with his hands in his pocket. He occasionally glances over at you and it makes your heart skip a beat. You feel like a 9th grader walking home with the captain of the football team. "So...you liked the set?", he asks already knowing the answer. You nod and smile, "Of course! You guys rocked it". His dimples emerge when he smiles, "Thanks". You come to the steps of your apartment building and stop. He realizes and asks, "So, this is you?". "Yeah", you admit sadly. You want to invite him up to your place but you don't want to be THAT chick. He waits patiently for your next move. Stepping closer, you bump into him playfully. "Thanks for inviting me. Haven't had that much fun in a LONG time". "Me either", he admits. "Thanks for coming". He steps closer to you and strokes your arms. He's standing right in front of you and his cologne is blowing your mind. Those beautiful brown eyes are staring right at you as he leans in close and whispers, "Good night Nikki", in your left ear. Just as you respond with, "Good night Bruno", he kisses your forehead. He steps back as if he's waiting for your reaction. His soft, warm lips on your skin causes a slight tremor to move like a wave over your body. You hope he doesn't notice. That was the sweetest, most sincere kiss you've had in months - to be very honest possibly ever. You can't help but blush. He notices and smiles. Backing up he winks, turns around and walks back down the street. Your feet are melted in place from that kiss. You force them to move up the steps and in to your apartment. You reach for your diary and start, "Dear Diary, He's a keeper...".
Your shift moves pretty slow but the memories from last night help. You close your eyes and feel Bruno's lips on your forehead and his firm but gentle hands caressing your arms. You wish the two of you had exchanged numbers. You really want to see him again SOON. Your shift finally ends and you make your way home. It's so yucky outside. It's very gloomy and rainy as you walk down the street. To your surprise, waiting on the steps of your apartment building is Bruno. He's soaked from head to toe. Your heart flutters and you quicken your pace. Holding your umbrella over him you scold, "Why the hell are you sitting out here in the rain?!". He's trembling from being wet for God knows how long. He looks up at you and water drips from his eyelashes. Fat rain drops fall from his lower lip as he stutters from the cold rain, "I wwwanted to see you bbbbut I didn't have your nnnnumber". Your heart melts as rain cascades from his trembling chin. He smiles with his eyes and you help him up. "Come on upstairs and dry off".
You walk into your place and head straight to the linen closet for towels. "Please make yourself at home", you say to Bruno as you walk into the hallway. You return with towels and see him admiring the pictures on your fireplace. "Here you go", you whisper walking up to him giving him a towel. He starts to dry his hair. It's curled tightly from the rain. "Damn he looks sexy with wet hair," you think to yourself. Then again, you haven't had sex in a year so it could just be your vagina talking. He begins drying his body and looks over at you and smiles. You realize you are staring and turn and walk away. You head to the kitchen. "Can I offer you something to eat or drink?", you ask. "Uh, sure", he replies. You open the fridge. "Ok. I have water and pepsi". "Ok", he says indicating he's waiting for other options. You open the pantry, "I also have tea, coffee, merlot, malbec, vodka, tequila and rum". "Rum?", he asks - interest peaked. "Yup. Appleton Jamaican rum. It's delicious". He's made his way over to you. "Oh I know", he smiles. "Ok, rum it is then", you smile back at him. You start to mix up some rum and pepsi but notice his shirt is still dripping wet. "I can toss that in the drier if you want", you whisper handing him a glass. He takes a sip and looks down at his shirt. "I guess air drying ain't working out so well, huh? You sip and shake your head. He steps back and takes off his shirt. You're a little shocked by his boldness. Your eyes can't help but go straight to his chest. He's not ripped but you can see faint definition. It's enough to make your love warm. He walks over to the sink and rings out his shirt. You watch his biceps and triceps flex as he rings out the shirt. You take another sip to cool that fire burning between your thighs. He walks over and hands you his shirt, "Thanks. I really appreciate all of this". You snap back to reality, "Oh, no problem. Let me get you a shirt to wear". He chuckles, "Ok. I'd like something in pink to match my eyes and hug my curves". You hit him playfully, "I have larger shirts. I sleep in oversized tees". Bruno raises his brow, "Oh really...". You tap him playfully again and head to your room. You are searching through your tee shirt drawer when you notice Bruno at your bedroom door. He's leaning against the doorframe but is careful not to come in. You giggle, "Bruno, you can come in. It's ok". He looks unsure. You glance at your bed, "Make yourself comfortable. I don't mind". He sits on the edge of your bed as you hold up tee shirts. "Uh, no...nope...no way...too small", you comment going through quite a few shirts. Bruno sits patiently waiting. Finally, you find one. "Got it", you state holding it up. He reads the front, "Tell someone". He looks confused. "Tell someone what?". You laugh. "It's an advertisement for the gardasil vaccine. "O............kay", he shrugs as he puts in on. It fits perfectly. You think for a moment. "Hold on", you request darting off in search of a sharpie. He watches you running around, "Ok". You find one and begin to write on the back of the shirt. Bruno looks over his shoulder in an attempt to see what you're writing. "There", you say proudly positioning him in the mirror so he can see. He smiles as he gets it. Pointing to the front of the shirt he reads, "Tell someone". He quickly turns around and reads the back, "about Bruno Mars". "I love it!", he laughs hugging you. The laughter quickly dies as you both gaze into each others eyes realizing how close you are for the first time. Bruno smiles and slowly releases you. Attempting to change the subject he jokes, "Yeah, I'ma need about 100 of these shirts to give out". "I'll get right on that", you joke back.
You head back out to the kitchen because you need a drink. Bruno follows so closely behind you can smell his signature scent. 'God he smells like heaven', you think to yourself squeezing your eyes shut for a moment. He grabs his glass, leans against the counter and sips, watching your every move. His eyes scanning your body is making you wetter than a swimmers speedo but you manage to hold it together. You grab his wet shirt and throw it in the dryer. Walking past him you casually inquire, "How about a movie?". Bruno sits up and follows you into the living room, "Sure!". You sit on the couch and Bruno plops down right next to you. Those dimples flash you as he smiles and asks, "So, what we watching?". He looks sexy as hell and you're sex deprived - bad combination. You can barely catch your breath you are so turned on right now. You look away and begin to search for the remote. After a moment, you can breathe again and reply, "Let's see what's on". You hit the guide and scan. Neither of you find anything interesting until you read "The Last Dragon". Looking at each other you both agree in unison, "YES!!!". The credits are just starting and you both are hyped! You pop up, "I'll make some popcorn". "Cool! I'll make some rum punch", Bruno says in his best Jamaican accent. You both get to it. You are a little nervous about the rum punch. You don't wanna lower your inhibitions around Bruno and do something stupid. You really like him...but you don't wanna insult him either so, you just go with it.
You are both back in time to see the first scene. The movie is just as funny as you remember. Bruno makes it even more entertaining as he spouts all the famous lines along with you as the movie goes on. You are thoroughly enjoying yourself and the rum punch is definitely keeping the party going. After a little while, you are both pretty drunk. Bruno is laying across the couch and you find yourself laying on him. You lose track of yourself for a while just listening to his heart beat and inhaling the scent of his cologne. You have no idea how long you've been focused on him when you hear him whisper, "Hey, you sleep?". Snapping out of that Mars Sars trance you reply, "Nah, just enjoying the movie". He doesn't respond but rests his arm on your waist. Smiling you snuggle closer to him and he holds you in a tight embrace. 'Yes!!!', you wanna scream. This is what you've been missing. The combination of alcohol and snuggling sends you straight to dreamland. 
You wake up hours later and notice it's dark. Bruno is sleeping with his arms still wrapped around you. The TV is still on. You attempt to reach the remote to turn it off without disturbing him but fail miserably. Bruno rubs his eyes, "Ah man! Did I fall asleep?! I'm sorry". He's looking down at you but doesn't move. The moonlight shining in through the window dances against the hazel flecks in his eyes. He smiles at you as he pulls you closer to him. You're breathing fast and pray that your body isn't trembling. It's been sooooooo long since you've been held by a man. He stokes your hair and whispers, "You look so pretty in this moonlight". You smile, "So do you...I mean...you look good too. No wait!", you close your eyes tight and look down as you cover your eyes with your hand. 'Way to go stupid', you reprimand yourself. You want to crawl inside yourself and die. Why can't you just be yourself around this guy? You are always putting your foot in your mouth. You hear Bruno chuckle. He removes your hand from your eyes and pulls you even closer. You are inches away from his face. You focus on his lower lip. It's perfect. Like literally perfect. Large enough to suck but not too big to get in the way during a kiss. You want to taste it. You imagine that it tastes sweet like sugar, no...a jolly rancher...the watermelon one. Your fantasy is cut short when he strokes your face and whispers, "I want to kiss you. I mean I REALLY wanna kiss you but I won't if you don't want me to". You swallow hard and lean in slightly as you think to yourself, 'Aight Nicole DON'T fuck this up!'. You decide to let your body language speak for you since 'clown' appears to be your first language lately. Centimeters from his lips you gaze into his eyes and lightly stroke his cheek with your index finger. He leans in and places his lips gently on yours. A tingle sprints down your spine. The kiss is innocent and very sweet. You open your eyes and Bruno is smiling. He whispers, "Let's try that again". He caresses the back of your head and kisses you firmly. You let yourself relax in his arms as his tongue slides into your mouth. Caressing the back of his head you can feel him bringing you closer against his body. In no time his manhood rises to the occasion. He steals one more quick kiss before releasing you. You open your eyes as he sits up and "adjusts" himself. You can tell he's embarrassed. "Sorry about that", he whispers. Before you can assure him that everything is ok, he states, "I should probably go". 'NOOOOOO!!!', your body is screaming. This is the only intimacy you've had in a year. You don't want him to go anywhere. Bruno stands and 'adjusts himself' again. He turns toward the door, "I'm sure my shirt's dry. I should get it and head home". He looks down reluctantly. His body language betrays him, he doesn't wanna leave. You smirk to yourself then stand. You don't know what to do. Should you be that confident assertive woman and go for it? Or should you be yourself and let him take the lead? You must've taken too long to decide because Bruno heads over and grabs his shirt from the dryer. Walking back toward you he states, "I'll wash this one and bring it back to you". "Ok. It's no big deal really", you say trying to buy some thinking time. Bruno glances up at you like he's waiting for you to say something. You are drawing a blank. You can't think of one thing to say. You can't even remember your name right now. Throwing his shirt over his right shoulder he looks down and says, "Thanks again for all your help tonight". "Uh...yeah...of course", you manage to sputter. "I enjoyed the movie too", he adds. You smile because that's all you can do. Your brain is currently in system failure. Bruno is clearly waiting for a cue from you. After a few seconds of not receiving one, he turns toward the door. 'WAIT!!!', your body is screaming. Your heart is trying to make your legs move but they won't budge. Bruno looks back at you as if he heard your hearts plea and smiles. He walks up to you and kisses you gently on the lips. "Good night", he whispers brushing your hair away from your eyes. You continue to smile like an idiot. 'SAY SOMETHING DUMMY!', your heart is screaming. Bruno heads to the door. You open your mouth just as his hand touches the door knob. Before you can speak you hear a loud crack of lightening followed but a loud crash of thunder. The noise startles you both. Bruno backs up from the door, "Oh shit!". You look out the window and see a deluge of rain falling in sheets against it. Bruno looks from the window to you and kinda smiles happily. 'Thank you Jesus', you think to yourself as Bruno steps toward you. A loud crack echoes through the night scaring you enough to make you jump. Bruno holds you close. Rubbing your upper arms he whispers in your right ear, "It's ok. The lightening probably just hit the ground or something". He kisses the top of your head. The kiss reboots the hard drive in your brain and relaxes your muscles. It's a miracle! You can think and speak! "Listen", you whisper stepping into him. Looking into his eyes you continue, "there is no way I'm letting you go out there in that mess. It's already after three o'clock in the morning, you might as well crash on the couch". He feigns disapproval to be polite. You ignore the feeble attempt because you know he's not going anywhere tonight. "Let me go get you some pillows and a blanket. I'll be right back". "Well, if it's not going to be any trouble...", he calls after you. You damn near run to the linen closet. You return to the living room and find Bruno waiting patiently on the couch. He pops up when he sees you. You begin to dress the couch for his comfort and he helps. "Thanks for letting me crash. Really preciate it", he states. Finishing up you place the pillows on the couch and shrug it off, "It's really no problem at all". Bruno's eyes are on every inch of your body as you stand and make sure the couch looks comfy. "There! How's that?", you ask Bruno. When you don't hear a response, you turn to find him staring at you. You know that look. Those eyes. They are saying things you haven't heard in almost a year. Bruno reaches for your wrists and pulls you into him. Staring into your eyes, he brushes the hair from your face and smiles. You begin to feel your love drip and your temperature rise. His hand moves slightly below your waist while the other caresses your head. Your lips meet once again but this time, your love aches in response to his hardness pressed against it. Murmuring in your ear, he responds, "It looks very comfortable. Thank you". All you hear is his manhood screaming for the satisfaction that you are dying to provide. Whispering back damn near panting, you ask, "Can I get anything else for you?". He smilies mischievously as his hand falls lightly from your face and caresses all of the curves on the right side of your body. "I think I'll be ok". He slowly releases you and steps back. His manhood is at full salute and he is NOT ashamed this time. Your eyes are glued to it as you mouth, "WOW...". Boy scouts could campout under that thing. "Well, we should probably get some sleep", Bruno suggests. Sleep is the furthest thing from your mind right now. Your body rats you out and replies, "I'm not the LEAST bit sleepy". You realize what you just said just as Bruno replies, "Me either". Sitting on the couch he asks, "So what do you wanna do?". You begin licking your lips as your eyes size up the package on hold in front of you. You realize what you're doing and look away but it's too late. Bruno notices and smiles. He slouches back on the couch and opens his legs a bit as he adjusts himself. Your mouth is watering. It's been so long - you WANT HIM but you are TERRIFIED. You try to seductively slide on to the couch next to him. You wonder, 'Was that as sexy in reality as it was in my head?'. Bruno leans into you, so you take that as a yes. You are so out of practice you aren't sure what to do next. You keep thinking, 'What do I do with my hands?!'. You must look nervous as hell because Bruno pauses and smiles at you. Placing his index finger under your chin, he lifts your face and kisses you softly. He murmurs, "Are you sure you're ok with this?". Your body is trembling and you can't hide it. "Are you cold?", he whispers. You sit back. There's no use. You're blowing it. This a'int gonna happen. You are so embarrassed you turn away and pray those hot tears you feel brewing stay hidden. Bruno moves closer to you. "Nikki?", he asks turning your face to meet his. "What is it? Did I do something wrong?". 'Damn it!', why does he have to be so sweet? You are choked up and can't respond. Bruno pulls you onto his chest and lays back on the couch. Holding you close he strokes your hair and whispers, "We can lay here like this all night if you want. No worries, ok?". You turn to face him and hug him tight. Kissing him softly you whisper, "Thank you". You are mentally drafting tonight's page in your diary, 'Dear Diary he's too good to be true...'. After a few minutes, you drift off to sleep listening to the sound of his heartbeat. 
You wake the next morning alone on the couch. The smell of coffee and bacon is making it's way from the kitchen to your nose. Sitting up you see Bruno looking around your kitchen as he prepares breakfast. You stand and walk towards the kitchen. Seeing you, he says, "Good morning beautiful". Blushing as you run your hands through your bedhead, you can barely respond, "Good morning". You pour a cup of coffee, "What is all this?". "Oh, just a little thank you for taking care of me yesterday". You smirk, "No thanks necessary". "Don't be ridiculous! You were a great host last night". You look down remembering the night that wasn't. Bruno is reading your mind. "Come here", he beckons pulling you up from the chair and into his body for a hug. You refuse to meet his gaze. You are still quite embarrassed about last night and besides you have morning breath. Stroking your hair and cheek he stares into your eyes, "I had a great time with you last night. I really enjoyed your company". You roll your eyes knowing he's just being nice. He forces eye contact, "Really, I did enjoy your company. I had a great time with you". He kisses you softly, "I'd like to do it again". You are shocked. Speechless you stare as you mentally re-write this mornings diary entry, 'Dear Diary, you won't believe this...'. Letting you go he says, "Hope you're hungry". You aren't really but will force yourself to eat whatever he places before you. Scrambled eggs, bacon and toast - simple but delicious. 'I guess I was hungry', you realize as you devour the entire plate. Bruno glances at you occasionally and smiles. That one right dimple peeks out every so often when he smiles. He's quiet though. You wonder if he's regretting what he said to you this morning. "Everything ok?", you ask reluctantly. He looks up slowly and sighs, "Yeah". You haven't known him long but you know he's lying. You let it be for now. You stand and gather his plate along with yours and take them to the sink. Just as you turn around to head back Bruno hops up, "No. I'm lying. Everything is not ok". He stands in front of you. He's making purposeful eye contact as you are both face to face. You feel his warm coffee flavored breath on your face and smell his lingering cologne but you are scared as hell. You have absolutely NO idea what he's about to tell you. Not knowing what to say, you just wait and hope he explains. "Nikki I'm sorry". You are caught off guard by the apology and jerk your head back slightly. 'Huh?'. He sighs and continues as he looks away. "I...I really like you and last night...well, I think I may have had too much to drink. I mean, cuz I never wanted to make you uncomfortable. I feel really bad. I didn't mean to pressure you or make you think you had to sleep with me". You cut him off, "What?!". Now it's his turn to look caught off guard. After laying dormant for months, your feminine wiles suddenly awakens and marches right to the front of the line. You push Bruno back against the island. Kissing him firmly you whisper, "I never felt pressured. Did you?". You gaze directly into his eyes. He looks pleasantly surprised, "No...". You feel an overwhelming sexual urge come over you. You feel in total control of your sexuality right now. It feels strange but a good strange. You step between his legs and lean your body against his, making sure to rest your love atop his already growing enthusiasm. You can feel his body warm and see beads of sweat form on his top lip. He's breathing heavily as he looks into your eyes. You catch a glimpse of 'Oh my God YES!' mixed with "what the fuck is going on?' in his eyes. You smirk and gently bite his lower lip as you caress his manhood. Bruno's hands grab your ass and squeeze. It's in that moment you realize your dry spell has come to an end because your love is raining buckets. Bruno begins to unbutton your jeans as you tug at his. Never breaking your gaze, he lifts you onto his hardness. The combination of his size and your lack of sex in a year makes for a tight fit inside your love. You wince only briefly upon his entrance then a wave of pleasure rolls over your entire body as he hits the back of your walls with the first thrust. He stares intently into your eyes and smiles as he squeezes your hips while you ride. You throw your head back and try to squelch the orgasm you already feel starting in the center of your love. You don't want to come so fast. This shit feels WAY better than what you remember. Bruno holds you close and kisses your neck on his way up to your ear. He murmurs, "Mmmmm" and your walls tremor. You are fighting a losing battle with this orgasm and Bruno can tell. He smiles as he places his hand on the small of your back. Staring into your eyes, he murmurs, "Hold up, let me help you with that". He begins to grind deep inside you until you surrender. You explode on his manhood with a pleasure that has been dormant for nearly a year. Your body goes limp for a few moments and he holds you tight. He kisses you and smiles up at you as if to say, 'you're welcome'. You feel like the gates of heaven opened up and shone down upon you. You are so weak from that mountain top experience, you are barely holding on. Bruno's hands slowly slide up your back for support and hold you close. He whispers, "You ok?". You smile and kiss his lips, "Oh yeah". He chuckles and begins to thrust slowly inside your love. You find the strength to continue although all you really wanna do is lay down and sleep. You slowly twerk up and down on his manhood. You notice he begins to sweat a little more. Smirking you continue to twerk. "Ohhhhhhhhhh", he moans throwing his head back and gripping your hips tighter. He moves your hips back and forth on his hardness. You squeeze your walls and grip his manhood inside your love. He groans so loudly it startles you, "FUCKKKK". Consequently you loosen your grip. "Got DAYYYYUUUMMMM your shit is tight. Oh my Goddddddddd', he moans squeezing your hips. It doesn't take you long to figure out how to ride and grip his dick at the same time. He's at the mercy of your will. You have never felt so in control. Smiling you slowly hop up and down on his hardness until you feel a second wave of pleasure spark inside your control center. He notices the change in your body and smiles. "Yes, baby. Come on", he encourages as he thrusts deep. You are both grinding and thrusting trying to hold back the inevitable. It isn't long before you both give in. Bruno's desire is released inside your love just as your walls spasm out of your control. Bruno does his best to hold you up but he's just as weak as you are right now. You slide down and stand (barely) laying against his sweaty body. He kisses the top of your head and hugs you tight. You smile at him then stand back. Bruno sits up and looks at you shyly. He clears his throat, "Ahem...so, uh...where did that come from?". Your cheeks begin to sting from embarrassment. Having been satisfied your feminine wiles have gone back into hibernation. "Uh...I was...um..I don't know". You turn away, "I'm sorry". Bruno is at your side in the blink of an eye. Wrapping his arms around you tight he states sincerely, "Oh no, baby. Don't be sorry. That shit was...WHOA". You blush. "It's just, I was a bit surprised. I mean after last night I thought maybe you weren't ready". You look down. He lifts your face to meet his gaze and cocks his head to the side waiting for you to explain. You don't. He kisses you so softly his juices leave your love and begin to slide down your thighs. "Excuse me", you say making your way to the bathroom. 
After cleaning yourself up, you stare at your reflection in the mirror. 'What the hell was that Nicole?', you ask yourself in complete disbelief. You've never been THAT girl. What will he think of you? Will he still be interested after you fucked him and y'all haven't even been on an official date? "Jesus!", you exclaim placing your face in your hands. You just keep screwing things up. Your mind begins to write your next diary entry, 'Dear Diary, You will NEVER believe what I did...'. You shake your head at the thought of having to write down the details. Being with Bruno was...*sigh*...EVERYTHING you thought it would be BUT you didn't want it to happen so soon. I mean...you don't think you did...or did you? Well, no matter your drought is over and boy oh boy the rainy season was SUCH a blessing. There is a soft knock on the bathroom door, "Nikki?". It's Bruno. 'How long have I been in here', you wonder. "Is everything ok", he asks with concern weaved throughout his voice. You open the door and greet him with a smile. "Yeah. I'm fine". Bruno looks relieved. You walk over and sit on your bed. Bruno follows. You just can't make eye contact with him right now so you look every where but at him. He slides closer to you and caresses your face. You tremble noticeably. He smiles and whispers, "Um, can I uh...ask you something?". You quickly glance at him and nod. Clearing his throat he continues, "Um, not that it matters to me or anything but...". He hesitates so you turn to face him. "I was just wondering if that was your...um...your first time?". Your eyes grow wide as you burst into laughter. 'Wow! Was I that out of practice?', you wonder to yourself. Bruno smiles uncomfortably as he sits and watches you dying from laughter. "So, I guess that was a no", he murmurs. Wiping the tears from your eyes you finally respond, "No. No Bruno that wasn't my first time". "Oh. Ok. I mean it didn't make any difference to me either way". You kiss his lips cutting him off. "Bruno, you are very sweet but I was not a virgin. It has been a while since I've slept with a man though". He's demeanor relaxes a bit, "OH! Ok. Now I get it". You both smile. You glance over at him as he breathes a sigh of relief. "I'm sorry if it wasn't the best. It's been almost a year", you admit apologetically. Bruno smirks as he pulls you onto his lap. "Baby that was amazing. So if that wasn't your best, I'm down for a redo!". Giggling, you wrap your arms around his neck and kiss his cheek. 
You both head back out to the kitchen. You pour another cup of coffee for both of you. Bruno is sitting by the window when you bring him his coffee. He motions for you to sit on his lap so you oblige. He sips his coffee while gazing out of the window, "This is a cool little spot to chill". You smile knowing that you've sat here nearly every morning wishing you had someone like him to share it with. "Yeah, it's pretty cool right?", you respond concealing your excitement. Bruno smiles as he watches people go by. "Wow she looks tired as hell! I KNOW her feet killing her!", he giggles commenting on some poor woman who looks as though she just got off work. You giggle in agreement. "WHOA dude is ripped! Look like a UFC fighter or some shit. He can't even put his arms down all the way", he laughs. "Oh yeah? I dare you to yell that to him out the window", you tease. "HELL NO!", he quickly responds laughing even harder. You smile to yourself as you sip your coffee on the comfort of his lap. You realize that you have been smiling a lot more lately and it's because of Bruno. He's sweet, funny and really likes you in spite of all the stupid things you've said and done over the past few days. Bruno kisses your cheek. You lower your head and blush. He makes you so happy already and you're still getting to know him. He squeezes you tight and whispers in your right ear, "So, you got anymore of that honeydew melon left?". You both burst into laughter as you playfully hit his shoulder. Bruno just holds you tighter. At that moment, your next entry pops into your mind, "Dear Diary, Thank you..."

Again - Part II

"NIKKI!", you hear over and over blaring from your phone. You pick it up, "Huh?". "What happened? You ok?", Cherry asks concerned. "He...he...uh...sent me room service", you state in disbelief still staring at the plane ticket. "Well, at least he fed you this time. You fucked him didn't you? I know you did. Can't say that I blame you...". You don't hear a word she said as you cut her off, "He left me a plane ticket to LA...". Your voice just trails off. Cherry is silent for a moment. "He loves me Cherry. He said he loves me too", you ramble getting excited. "A plane ticket? Damn!! You must've put it on him...hold up...wait a minute. TOO?! Nikki, PLEASE tell me you didn't tell him you loved him. Please tell me you're smarter than that". You are silently smiling. You don't care what she thinks. Philip said he loves you too and wants to see you. "You are the smartest dumb person I've ever met in my entire life". Again not listening you reply, "Thank you". You are floating on cloud nine. "I should call him and thank him for breakfast and the ticket", you continue babbling. "Uh Nikki, you ain't seriously thinking about going though, are you?", Cherry asks already knowing the answer. "Let me call you back Cherry". "You are something else heifer. You seriously gonna go to LA aren't you?". "Cherry I love you and I'll call you back. Bye!". You hang up and dial Philip. The phone goes directly to voicemail. "Hey...good morning Philip", you start smiling so hard your ears are wet. "I wish you could've moved your flight back but I understand. Thank you for breakfast." You giggle, "You don't forget anything do you? It looks delicious". You are silent for a moment. "I got the plane ticket as well. Thank you. We can talk about it later. Traveling mercies Baby. Get home safely. Love you". You hang up still smiling. Sitting down on the bed you grab your coffee and sip happily.
You are back home unpacking when there is a knock at your door. Before you can make your way to the door, you hear a key turning. 'Cherry', you think to yourself. You hear her come in, close the door and immediately start in on your broken promise. Entering the doorway to your bedroom she mocks, "I promise to guard my heart". Rolling your eyes, the thought of changing your locks runs briefly through your mind. "Don't start", you state not even bothering to look up. She plops down on your bed trying to force eye contact. You don't acknowledge her and continue to unpack. "Look at you. All glowing and shit". You let a small smile slide across your lips. "Uh huh, keep ignoring me. I know you slept with him Nikki. You don't have to admit it. I hope it was worth it". You hang your dresses up to take to the cleaners and continue to ignore her. "So, what did he say when you called?", she asks laying across your bed. You sigh, "He didn't pick up and he hasn't returned my call". You're trying to conceal the hurt. You don't wanna hear 'I told you so'. Your heart can't take it right now. Cherry sits up, "Oh, he probably still on the plane. I'm sure he'll call you when he lands". You breathe a sigh of relief. That thought hadn't crossed your mind. I mean with his previous track record of love 'em and leave 'em, who would blame you? You are finished putting everything away and Cherry is patiently waiting for you to spill the beans. You sit on the bed and stare off. "Well...", she insists. You roll your eyes and head to the kitchen. You come back and plop down on the bed with 2 wine glasses and a bottle of merlot. "Where do I start...".
It's Tuesday evening and you still haven't heard from Philip. You are having that feeling of déjà vu. You hate yourself for falling for him AGAIN. You text Cherry, 'U were rite. I shoulda listened'. 'It's only been 2 days. Chill! He's prob just settling in'. You want to believe her. You start digging for a semblance of hope at the bottom of the pint of Talenti Tahitian Vanilla Bean Gelato you've been demolishing. You don't find it. You have to work in the morning so you drag yourself to bed. You toss and turn. 10:33pm. 11:01pm. 12:17am. You're still wide awake. You sit up and reach for the bottle of Benadryl just as your phone rings. You glance at it, it's Philip. You think of letting it go to voicemail but decide to answer it and see what he has to say. "Hello", you answer with no emotion whatsoever. "Hey beautiful", he starts. You cut him off, "It's late. What do you want?". There is a moment of silence on the other end. "Oh damn! I keep forgetting that you're 3 hours ahead of me. Baby Girl I'm sorry. It's after midnight where you are, right?". You don't answer. "I'm sorry I'll call you back tomorrow". You still don't answer. "Nikki? You still there?". "Yeah, I'm here", you answer standoffishly. Philip notices. "You ok? Did I wake you?". "No". He sighs, "What did I do this time? I swear Nikki I did EVERYTHING I could to get another flight. I swear! I knew you'd think about the last time but I swear I didn't have a choice...". He's rambling. You stop him, "Stop. Just stop talking Philip". "Ok", he agrees quietly. "I called you Sunday morning and you're just now returning my call". "Baby, I...". "I'm NOT finished! You leave me a plane ticket to LA and write 'I love you too' but yet it takes you TWO DAYS to return my call. And I'm supposed to believe things are different than before?" "Nikki, I'm sorry the flight got back late and I had a couple meetings with the label. I was going to call you back as soon as I got the chance". "Don't play with me Philip. I hate it when people lie to me!". "I'm not lying! I swear!". "Look, if I'm just your 'DC chick' then be honest with me and tell me. I'm a big girl. I can take it". "Nikki, stop it. You know you mean more to me than that". "Do I?". "Yes you do". Silence creeps onto the line. He sighs and whispers, "...I'm falling in love with you". Your face flushes. Hearing him say the words causes tingles to sprint down your spine. "I want to see you. That's why I left you the ticket". You are silent. "When can you come out?". "I don't know, Philip. I have to see", you whisper. "Ok. I understand. Well, I'll let you get to sleep. Good night Baby Girl", he whispers. "Good night Philip". You hang up and immediately drift off to sleep.

You can't focus at work. Philip's voice is stuck in your head. 'I'm falling in love with you' is replaying over and over again. You text Cherry, 'U HAV 2 COME OVER AFTER WORK'. She calls you immediately. You close your office door and answer. Before you can say hello, she explodes with, "WHY WHAT'S WRONG?!". "Jesus chick! Nothing. I just really need to talk to you". She sighs, "What did he say to you?". "Wha...how do you know it has anything to do with him?". She's silent. You can envision the face she's giving you and chuckle. "I get off late. I'll be there around 11:30. Have food. Cheese sticks...and wine". "Yes ma'am", you agree and hang up. You walk around the building and try your best to keep your mind off of him. It doesn't work. The day is dragging on and on. You do your last round of meds before the end of the day. Just as you sit at your desk to start your documentation, your phone rings. It's Philip. Chills run through your body as you answer, "Hello". "Hey beautiful! I know you're working but I just needed to hear your voice". Your smile is as big as the Pacific Ocean. He continues, "I hope your shift is going well". "Hey Baby. It's going ok. It's very sweet of you to call". You can hear him smile over the phone. "I won't keep you. I know you're busy. I'll call you tonight, ok?". "Ok", you smile. "Love you Baby Girl", his raspy voice replies making love to your ear drum. You smile and hear him end the call, not waiting for your response. You sit at your desk smiling as you try to focus on your documentation.

It's after 11:30pm and Cherry walks through the door of your place. She looks exhausted as she plops down on the couch. "That bad huh?", you ask handing her a glass of her favorite cab. She's closer to you than your own blood sister. You know she'd much rather be at home in bed but she loves you. She came here instead to listen to you talk about a man who you love but she doesn't approve of and you love her for that. Smiling, you go to the oven and retrieve her cheese sticks that are warming. "Here you go chick", you chide handing her a bowl full. She smiles, kicks off her shoes and sits back in her 'Ok, heifer I'm listening pose'. You take a deep breath and start. "I want to go to LA". You wait for her to react but she doesn't even look up from the bowl. You continue. "I put in for 2 weeks vacation. I haven't told him yet but I'm leaving in a week". That did it. She places the bowl down and stares at you. "You're joking right?". You look away as you sit on the love seat. "Nikki, you don't know this guy. All you know is what you see in the media and what he tells you. AND TWO WEEKS?! Come on Nikki. I could maybe see a couple days but no. HELL NAH. You ain't going". You don't look in her direction but begin to defend yourself. "I've been alone with him plenty of times. He's not going to do anything to hurt me. He's not like that...". Cherry cuts you off, "He's not going to hurt you? Need I remind you of the numerous times you've cried over this nigga?". You ignore her and continue. "I love you girl and you know I value your opinion but I'm going and you can't stop me". You can feel her eyes throwing daggers in your direction. She sighs, "I don't understand why you wanted me here if you already made up your mind". You look back at her and start to respond but your phone rings. Cherry knows who it is by the smile on your face. She sits back and takes a big sip from her glass. "Hey", you whisper. "Hey, Baby Girl. How are you?". "I'm ok. Sitting here with my girl Cherry". She throws you a disapproving glance. Philip pipes up, "Oh yeah, the one you always talk about, right?". You smile because clearly he listens to you when you talk. "Yeah, that's the one". "Don't be talking about me", Cherry says loudly. You laugh as Philip says, "Oh Cherry honey, it's all good things". "She can't hear you Bae. Hold on". Cherry is giving you the death stare as you put your phone on speaker. "Go ahead Philip. You're on speaker". "Oh ok. Hey Cherry! Nikki talks about you a lot". Cherry isn't pleased. "Oh really?", she asks with attitude. You shoot her a 'chill out' glance. "Oh no, it's all good things. Nothing bad. I promise". "Uh huh. Whatever", she responds standing to get another glass of wine. "Did I say something wrong?", he asks sincerely. "No", you respond. "She's just grumpy". Philip chuckles, "Nah, she sounds like she's upset with me. Cherry what's wrong?". She stops in her tracks and walks over to the phone. Snatching it out of your hand she starts, "First of all I'd like to say you're a fucking dog for doing my girl dirty like that before. How you gonna wine her, dine her, fuck her and then leave and don't speak to her for months?". You jump up in horror and grab for the phone. You can't believe she went there. Philip is stuttering, "OH...well...it wasn't...I mean...I was...", Cherry cuts him off and continues to chew him a new one. "Then you call her out the blue and ask her out months later and against my advice she does it AGAIN". You are struggling to get the phone out of her hand. "Cherry now hold up! Let me...", Philip tries to interject. "Now she thinks y'all in love because you wanna fuck her in the comfort of your own bed. I don't think so honey. Fuck you! She's not coming to LA". Cherry drops the phone on the couch and saunters off to grab the bottle of cab like nothing happened. You are shaking so bad you can't grasp the phone. Philip is silent. You are certain he hung up after that tirade. You could choke her right now. "Cherish!! Oh my God!! How could you?!". She looks at you and shrugs with indifference. "I said what needed to be said. I regret nothing". Tears come to your eyes. To your surprise Philip whispers, "Well, I asked what was wrong and she told me". Your voice shaking, you reply in shock, "Philip? I thought you hung up". "No, I'm still here". Cherry is back on the couch sipping her cab happily. You glare at her, half hoping she chokes. "I'll take you off speaker, hold on...". "No, no don't. Give me a chance to explain myself. Nikki you need to hear this too". You sit on the love seat with tears brimming. Cherry is sipping with that 'I don't give a fuck' look on her face. "Well...I do owe you an explanation for last time Nikki. It's not going to feel good to hear me say this but I have to be honest with you if I hope to ever have this relationship work". You smile thinking to yourself, 'He's trying'. No matter what he says you are ready to forgive him and start over, pretending it never happened. He sighs deeply, "Ok". He pauses then stumbles over the words trying to come out of his mouth. "Well...last time, when we hooked up...uh...I mean, when we were...umm...you know. Uh, I was sorta like...kinda with this girl. I mean we were on the verge of breaking up anyway and you were so fine in that skirt. I mean how could I not...". You cut him off immediately, "Wait, wait, WHAT?! So I was your...side chick Philip?! Is that what you're saying?!". You weren't expecting this at all. The tears spill over your eyelids and fall on to your lap. "No Nikki not all! I mean...technically...but not really...I knew you were different". You are numb. It hurts like a BITCH to know the truth but it explains a lot. Cherry was sitting on the couch chilling with her legs crossed but seeing how hurt you are, she makes her way over to you. Trying to hide your sobs, you respond, "I was different? More like stupid". You can't help but cry. You feel so foolish. Cherry places her arm on your shoulder for comfort but you shrug her off, "Don't you touch me! Get the fuck away from me!". You jump up and walk away from her. Cherry knows you well enough to realize you mean it. She also knows you're just angry and need some space. She stands and gathers her things. "I'll call you tomorrow", she states plainly as she walks out the door. You roll your eyes and try to figure out how to respond to what you just heard. You have no words. "Philip, I have to go", you start. He cuts you off, "Please don't. You didn't let me finish". "You've said enough Philip. I don't wanna hear anymore". "But Nikki please just listen". You are silently crying. He mistakes your silence for agreement and continues. "After being with you, I knew I had to leave her. I knew I wanted to be with you. I just didn't know how to do it". You choke out, "Don't ever call me again Philip". "Nik...", he starts as you hang up the phone and chuck it across the room. You run into your room, lay across your bed and cry yourself to sleep as you hear the phone ring in the distance. 

You wake up and call out of work. You look and feel like death. Your sleep was broken by phone calls from Philip all night. He was relentless. Calling and texting your cell then calling your home phone trying to talk to you. You haven't listened to any of his messages or read any of his texts. You don't care about what he has to say and have nothing to say to him. You make your way to the shower and just stand under the warm water. After getting out, you don't bother getting dressed. You put on your kimono and head to the kitchen to make some coffee. You find your phone on the floor of the living room near the window. 25 missed calls, 10 voicemails and 50 text messages all from Philip. Your phone rings, you glance down. It's Cherry. You think about letting it go to voicemail. You're still mad at her for starting all of this. You were perfectly happy being blinded by ignorance. You swallow that lump in your throat and hit answer. You don't say a word and neither does she for a few seconds. "I know you're still pissed off but I just wanted to make sure you were ok". You contemplate hanging up but you know she'd just come by so you answer, "I'm fine. Goodbye". You hang up the phone and sip your coffee. The phone rings again. You pick it up (not looking) thinking it's Cherry again, "I said I'm FINE damn it!". "Whoa! You don't sound fine", Philip admits. You are surprised and annoyed by his voice. You refuse to speak to him and begin to hang up. "Nikki please don't hang up. Please let me explain". You hang up anyway and silence your phone. He calls right back but you ignore it. How could you be so stupid? All this time, in the back of your mind, you knew he had someone else. You slept with him and then he takes off and doesn't contact you for 6 months. I mean what else could it have been? "You are dumb as hell, Nicole", you tell yourself.

A few days go by and things are somewhat back to normal. You leave work and arrive home ready to hit the shower and crawl into bed like you've done everyday for the past few nights. You open the door and smell pasta and marinara sauce coming from your kitchen. Cherry meanders out of your kitchen with a smile. "Hey", she whispers cautiously. You have only spoken 3 words to her since she laid into Philip the other night. You don't acknowledge her at all and head to your bedroom. She follows you. "I made stuffed shells", she sings. You continue to ignore her. "I know you haven't been eating. So, I figured I'd make you a little something". You walk by her and head into the bathroom for a shower. You stand in the shower listening to Adel on repeat. You're crying so hard, you can't decipher your tears from the shower spraying water on your face. Your heart is aching. It hurts so bad because you know deep down, even though he hurt you, you still love him. You are so deep into your feelings, you don't hear Cherry barge in. "Ok. Enough is enough", she orders shutting off the water and wrapping a towel around you. "You've been in here sulking for an hour. Come on and eat". As much as you don't want to admit it, you know she's right. You step out and start to dry off while she goes to grab you some clothes. A few minutes later you are both sitting on the couch. She's eating while you are picking at your food. It tastes delicious it's just your heart hurts too much to eat. Cherry looks over at you with sympathy and sighs. "When's the last time he called?". You don't look at her and shrug, "I don't know. I silenced my phone because he won't stop calling me". Cherry looks a little surprised, "Really?! I'd thought he would've given up by now. It's been a few days. What is he saying?". You shrug again. "What do you mean?", she asks. "I mean I don't know. I just delete everything. I don't listen to his voicemails or read his texts". Cherry slides closer to you. "Nikki, look, I'm sorry that you were hurt by what happened but I'm not sorry for anything that I said. You needed to know the truth". A tear rolls down your cheek because you know she loves you and is telling the truth. You look up at her and give her a half-smile. She smiles back at you and says, "Now eat heifer! I ain't slave in that kitchen for you to waste my damn food". You chuckle for the first time in days.

A few hours later, you are feeling a little better. "I hate to bring this up but what are you gonna do about LA? I mean you have your hotel booked and everything". You shrug again. You honestly hadn't thought about it. Before you can answer, there is a knock at your door. You hop up and open it thinking it's the UPS guy with your Amazon package. You have a bad habit of shopping when you're upset or sad. It's not. "Nikki", Philip says relieved stepping close to you with his arms wide. You immediately step back. "What the hell are you doing here?", Cherry asks before you can get it out. She pushes you out of the way and refuses to let him cross the threshold. "Nice to finally meet you Cherry", Philip smiles as he extends his hand for a shake. Cherry crosses her arms and stands her ground. You push her aside and stand arms crossed, face to face with your...whatever the hell he is. "What are you doing here Philip?". "Nikki, I've been calling and texting you for days but you haven't responded at all. I was really worried. So...here I am. I'm so glad you're ok", he grabs hold of you and hugs you tight. Your body betrays you and begins to relax in him arms. Cherry pulls you back, "Well, you see she's fine so BYE". She attempts to close the door but Philip blocks it. "I also came here to talk to my Nikki. I need to explain some things". You turn away from him. "Just give me five minutes, Baby Girl. Just five. Please". It's the sincerity of the 'please' that gets you. "Fine. Five minutes", you say looking at the clock. He steps inside and glances at Cherry. "Any chance we could be alone?", he asks. Cherry sits on the couch and turns to face him, "Hell no". He smiles and nods, "Ok. I understand". Standing in front of you he takes both of your hands in his. You look away but he's staring directly at you. "Baby girl, yes I had a girlfriend when I first met you. Yes, I cheated on her with you. Yes, I was wrong for not telling you I was seeing someone or calling you after we slept together. I'm an asshole". His voice trails off as you hear Cherry state, "You got that right!". He continues pulling you close, "BUT she found out about you because after we met, you were always on my mind. She knew I cheated and I decided not to lie to her because I wanted to be with you". Tears are falling freely from your eyes. He caresses your face and uses his thumbs to wipe away your tears. You break away from him and respond, "If that's true then why did it take you so long to call me? It was 6 months Philip. SIX FUCKING MONTHS!". He sighs, "I told her it was over. That I wanted her out but she said she was pregnant. I had to take care of my responsibilities...or so I thought. That's why I let her stay but after a few months, I discovered she was lying. By that time, I thought you had forgotten all about me and moved on but God knows I NEVER forgot about you". Cherry stands and begins to walk toward the both of you saying, "Your five minutes are up". You glance in his direction. Dropping to his knees in-front of you, he holds your hands and continues with sincerity. "Woman, you left a mark on me that I could never erase. You are in my spirit. Everything I saw reminded me of you. I fell in love with you that night we met and I'm still in love with you now". You're heart is melting. Cherry can see your change of heart and heads back to the couch. He stands and kisses you softly. "Please forgive me. If you let me love you I swear I'll never hurt you again." He looks at Cherry, "That's all I have to say". You are silent and still trying to process everything you just heard. Philip can't read you so, he turns to leave. "Thanks for listening. I guess...I...". He opens the door and begins to walk away. Turning to face you he smiles, "Good night Baby Girl" and leaves. You glance at Cherry. She's nodding her head toward the door encouraging you to stop him from leaving. You run out the door and catch him just before he gets on the elevator, "Philip wait!". You throw your arms around his neck and kiss his lips with every ounce of passion in your body. Surprised, he smiles at you. You smirk up at him and ask, "And just where do you think you're going?" 

You both head back to your place arm in arm. Cherry is cleaning up in the kitchen when you both walk in. "Make yourself at home Philip", you smile leading him to the sofa. "Thanks". "Can I get you something?", you offer. "Um, what is that heavenly aroma?", he asks sniffing the air. You chuckle and smile at Cherry through the breakfast bar cut out. "Cherry made me dinner. Stuffed shells". "Oh nice!", he exclaims. You can tell he's hungry but before you can ask, Cherry brings out a plate for you both to share. "Thought y'all might be hungry", she whispers. She winks at you as she walks back into the kitchen. You cut a piece of the shell with some stuffing and feed it to Philip. His eyes light up, "Mmmm. Oh my God! That's good!". You giggle, "Yeah my girl ain't no slouch in the kitchen". "I see", Philip says running his fingers through the sauce. You playfully smack his hand. He smiles and places a small amount of sauce on your nose. You scrunch your nose about to wipe it away. Philip holds your upper arms and kisses your nose making sure all the sauce is gone. Your body warms with his kiss. You smile feeling your temperature rise 5 degrees instantly and continue to feed him. After a few bites, you intentionally miss and leave some sauce on the corner of his mouth. He chuckles and attempts to wipe it off but you place the plate on the coffee table and quickly grab his hand. Smirking you slowly slide your body onto his lap and begin to lick the sauce from the corner of his mouth. He moans softly and pulls you closer. His tongue finds yours and soon you are both entangled in each others arms. "Oh ew! Ok, I'm outta here", Cherry states disgusted as she walks in on your make out session. You jump up. "Oh sorry...we were just", she stops you. "You don't have to explain anything to me. That's your man and this is your place". Hugging you quick, she waves to Philip and walks to the door. "Have fun. I'll call you tomorrow". The door closes and Philip pulls you back down on his lap. "Come here woman", he whispers in that raspy voice that makes your panties instantly moist. You smile and surrender yourself to him...again.

Again - Part I

It’s been a LONG day and all you want to do is go home…BUT you can’t. You’re the last nurse today and one client is still waiting to be picked up. All your meds have been signed off and refilled. All your documentation has been done. You are literally sitting at your desk staring at nothing. “Ughhhhhh!”, you groan sprawling out dramatically in the chair. “Where the hell is this kids ride?”, you wonder aloud. Extreme boredom sets in and you decide to scroll through social media. Twitter…drama. Facebook…boring. Instagram…kinda entertaining. You find yourself scrolling, double tapping and commenting on quite a few pictures to pass the time. After about 20 minutes you stand and stretch. You leave your phone on your desk and take a walk around the building. Upon your return you find that your phone is lit up with an Instagram notification. You plop down on your chair and open the app. It’s a Direct Message. You blink twice. It’s from ‘philsmeeze’. This isn’t the first Direct Message you’ve received from him but whenever you see his name pop up, it always makes your heart skip a beat…or two. You look around to see if anyone is watching (why I don’t know) then open it. ‘Hey Baby Girl’, you read smiling. His nickname for you will never get old. ‘I’m in DC for the weekend’. You suck in a breath. You’re not sure why he felt the need to share this information with you. ‘Hey Philip! Always good to hear from you. Sounds like fun. Enjoy!’. You smile at your response. ‘That sounds platonic enough’, you think to yourself proudly. He responds immediately, ‘Can I call you?’. You freeze. He’s only ever called you once and well…you are STILL trying to forget that entire situation. You contemplate long and hard about your response. ‘I’m at work right now. Give me a half-hour’. You sigh hoping that gives you enough time to think. ‘Ok’, he responds immediately. ‘I wanna see you Baby Girl’. Your jaw drops. You shake your head and close the app. “No, no, no. Not again”.   
After about 10 minutes, the last client is finally picked up and you can head home. You hop in the car, blast the radio and cruise down the highway forgetting all about your earlier DM conversation. You are singing at the top of your lungs about swinging from chandeliers with Sia when your phone rings. You hit the bluetooth without checking the caller ID. “Hello”, you answer in a good mood. “Baby Girl…”, greets you along with that famous smile you can hear over the phone. “FUCK!” you mouth to yourself. “Oh, hey…Philip. How have you been?”. “Good, now that I’m talking to you”. You roll your eyes. You’ve heard this bullshit before and are not in the mood for it right now. “Ha, ha, ha. Cut it out Philip. How are you?”. He chuckles, “I’m doing fine Nikki. How are you?”. You can envision his facial expression and it makes you blush. “I’m doing well Philip. Thanks for asking”. A moment of silence awkwardly enters the conversation. “So…I’m in your neck of the woods this weekend”, he states happily. “Well, technically you’re an hour away from me in DC. Not necessarily my neck of the woods”, you state plainly. “True…but close enough for a visit”. You can hear the hope in his voice. You choose to ignore it along with his last statement, “So, what brings you to DC, Mr. Lawrence?”. He’s silent for a moment. “Well…I have this little charity thing…”. “Uh huh, that’s nice”, you interject to be polite. “I…uh…was kinda hoping…”, you cut him off because you honestly aren’t listening to a word he’s saying. “Well, that should be fun Philip. I hope you enjoy yourself”. “Nikki, I want you to go with me”. “Oh really…”, you start not processing what he just said. “…WAIT! WHAT?!”. He chuckles a bit, “I thought it would be nice if you accompanied me to the event. You don’t reply…well, in all honesty you don’t know what to say. “Hello?”, he asks. “I’m still here Philip”. “So, what do you say? Are you busy tomorrow night?” You don’t know what to say so you hangup. You aren’t trying to be rude, you just have no idea what to say to him. The phone rings and of course, it’s Philip. “I think we got disconnected or something”, he whispers. “So, will you go?”. You are stone silent. “Nikki? You still there?”. “Huh? Uh, yeah…I’m here”, you manage to spit out. “I’m here. I’m driving home from work”. “Oh, ok. Look Baby Girl, I know this is short notice. It’s just, well…”. “Well what Philip?!”, you ask a little pissed. “I mean I don’t hear from you for months and NOW you want me to go to a charity event with you out the clear blue sky?”. You can hear his sigh of remorse over the phone, “I’m sorry Nikki. Things have been really crazy the last couple months. You know I’d never forget about you. You my girl. Always will be”. You roll your eyes, “Uh huh. Whatever Philip. I should go. There is a lot of traffic”. “So, you’re not going to go with me? You’re going to make me go alone?”. You don’t respond. “It’s for autism research you know. I THOUGHT you’d be excited to go”. You stare down at your phone. He knows where you work and what you do. He’s playing with you. “Philip, I…don’t know. There isn’t anyone else that can go?”. “Is this about the last time? Nikki, I said I was sorry. Something came up”. “No, it’s not about that”, you say knowing full well it is about the last time. You refuse to put your heart on the line like that again. “It’s ten grand a plate. Would be a great donation…”. Your heart drops, “Philip, I don’t have that kind of money laying around!”. “Didn’t I say you’d be MY date? I got you covered. You just need to stand next to me looking beautiful”. You sigh deeply. You just read in your nursing journal how more funding is desperately needed for autism research. He has you cornered and he knows it. “Where and when Philip”, you concede reluctantly. You can hear him smile over the phone, “Meet me at my hotel, noon tomorrow. I’m staying at the Ritz-Carlton. Suite 930”. You furrow your brow, “Ok…that’s pretty early for a charity dinner. It can’t be black tie”. He laughs, “Oh the event isn’t until 7pm and yes, it is black tie. I thought we could catch up a bit over lunch before hand”. You are ready to end this conversation, “Goodbye Philip”. You hang up and ignore the immediate ring back. 
You detour from your regular route home and hit Towson Town Center. If you are going to see Philip tomorrow…ahem…I mean, attend a charity dinner, you need a new dress. In the time it takes you to park and make your way into White House Black Market, Philip has called you 5 times. Just as the sales associate asks if you need any assistance, your phone rings again. Of course…it’s Philip. You groan looking down at your phone. “Please excuse me for one moment”, you smile as you walk toward the wall and answer the call. “WHAT PHILIP!!”, you snap. “WOMAN!! Who are you yelling at?!”, he snaps back. You smirk. You love it when he’s feisty. “I’m yelling at a man who won’t stop calling my phone”. “Well, if you’d answer the phone, I wouldn’t have to keep calling”. You are blushing like a school girl over this entire situation. “Ok Philip, what do you want?”. He chuckles, “Ha, ha, ha! What do I want? YOU woman! I want to see YOU. I want to hold you and see you smile up at me”. His voice lowers, “I just want you, Baby Girl”. You drop your head and smile but don’t respond. You want that too but don’t want to put your heart out there again to be broken. “Nikki”, he whispers in that sexy raspy voice that makes your knees buckle. “Please, just meet me for lunch”. You miss him. It’s been months since you’ve seen him. You know you're going to regret this but you agree. “Fine. Lunch and ONLY lunch. Where should I meet you? And don’t tell me your hotel”. You swear you can hear him smiling, “How about sushi and cocktails? Does that sound ok?”. Your face brightens a bit. Sushi does sound good. “Sure Philip. Sushi sounds delicious”. He gives you the name and address of the restaurant. “How’s 1pm sound?”, he asks sincerely. You can’t stop smiling no matter how hard you try. “Perfect. See you tomorrow, Philip”. “Can’t wait to see you Baby Girl”, he slips in just as you end the call. You lean against the wall staring at your phone and smiling for a minute. The sales associate walks up to you and asks if you are ok. You chuckle, “Yes. I’m great actually”. She smiles at you and asks, “Special date?”. You nod, “Kinda. I’m having lunch with…an old friend. Then we are going to a black tie charity event”. “Oh that sounds like a lot of fun! I have a few things I can show you”.  
After trying on 5 little black dresses, the last one is perfect. The look, the fit, the length, everything. “I’ll take it!”, you smile still looking at your reflection in the mirror. “It looks great on you! He’s gonna love it”. You stop and stare at her as she begins picking up the other dresses. ‘Nosey little bitch’, immediately comes to mind. You want to say something smart but decide to bench the urban queen trying to make her way to the court. You change out of the dress, emerge from the dressing room and find the sales associate waiting for you with an armful of spring cocktail dresses. You look at her with your mouth open. Before you can speak she starts, “Ok. Now, let’s wow him at lunch”. She winks and hands you the first dress. You smile and head back into the dressing room.
You finally arrive home and throw everything on the bed, including yourself. It’s 9pm. You are starving, need to do your hair and book a hotel room in DC for tomorrow night. You get up grab a banana and open your laptop. You find a great deal at the Hilton Garden Inn in DC and book it for 1 night. Closing your laptop you pop up grab your luggage and start to pack. Walking past a mirror, you catch a glimpse of your hair. “Ugh! What the hell am I gonna do with this mess by tomorrow?”, you wonder carefully rolling your clothes into the suitcase. You shower, wash your hair and sit on the bed looking at your wet curls. “No bueno”, you state aloud wishing you had time to hit the hair salon tomorrow morning. You call up your homie and hope she’s not working. “Hey chick, what you doing?”. “Heifer, what do you want?”. “I need you to help me do my hair…”, she cuts you off before you can finish. “Hell no! You got too much fucking hair heifer”. You ignore her and continue, “I’m going to a charity event tomorrow night and I can’t get to the salon”. “Why the hell not? Just go in the morning”. “I can’t I have a…a…uh…lunch date”. “WITH WHO??”, she pipes up. You don’t answer. “Wait, what charity event? How’d you get a ticket?”. You are smiling, “Cherry just get your ass over here and help me”. “Fine. I’ll be there in a few. And I want ALL the details”.
You wake up to your alarm. It’s 10am. You playfully kick Cherry. Her ass was too lazy to go home last night so she crashed with you. “Fuck you. I’m sleep”, she grumbles. You giggle, “Girl I gotta get ready to go. I gotta get to the hotel, check in and meet Philip by 1pm”. She looks up at you. “Nikki, look, I know you’re excited to see him but don’t get your heart all in it. I don’t wanna see you get hurt again”. You are washing your face, “I know, I know. I won’t”. “I’m serious Nikki! Don’t call me crying cuz that nigga then hurt you again. I might zap out on his ass”, she says sternly. You know she’s serious. Holding your hand over your heart, you say, “I promise to guard my heart”. “Forget your heart, just don’t fuck him again!”. She throws a pillow at you. You duck and throw it back laughing.
You’re cruising down Interstate 2-95 with your iTunes on blast. “Uptown funk you up, Uptown funk you up…”, you sing loudly as you car dance down the road. You are nervous as fuck and trying to release some of it before you see him. Your text alarms and you glance down, ‘Hope ur on ur way. Can’t w8 2 C U’. You smile and keep singing. You pull up to the Hilton and park so you can check in. It’s 11:45am, you are really pushing it. Thankfully your room is ready so you get your things and FLY up to your room. You text Cherry and let her know you got there safely. ‘Glad ur safe. Don’t fall for that nigga’. You send the side eye emoji and hop into the shower. You are drying off when the phone rings. You glance over…it’s Philip. You really can’t talk if you’re gonna make it on time but decide to pick it up anyway. “Hello”, you say with a huff. “Hey, Baby Girl! Please tell me you’re in DC”. You put the phone on speaker as you begin to lotion your body. “Yes, I am. I have you on speaker. I’m getting dressed”. He moans softly, “Sooooo you’re naked?”. You smirk and lie, “No, Philip. I’m getting dressed. I’ll see you soon. Bye!”. You hang up before he can respond. You stand at the mirror and let down your pin curls. “Thank you Cherry!”, you say out loud. You’re curls are PERFECT! You put on your blush colored cocktail dress, slide on your espadrilles and apply a thin layer of lip glass. You reach for your clutch and head out the door.
You hail a taxi to lunch because you ABHORE driving in DC. Besides, you need some time to decompress. You arrive at the restaurant and realize you’ve been here before. It’s a nice spot, real chill vibe with great atmosphere. You walk in and Philip spots you immediately, “Bab…ahem…Nikki”. You look in his direction and smile. Walking toward each other, both of your eyes lock and both of your steps quicken. He’s wearing a red Polo with dark dress jeans and your favorite frames. ‘Damn he looks good’, you think to yourself. He reaches out and you walk right into his arms…like always. They feel exactly the same and my God, he smells just as delicious as he always does. He rocks from side to side holding you tight. He kisses your cheek and whispers, “Damn I missed you”. You can feel the moment lingering a little too long and decide to break his embrace. “Hey Philip”, you smile stroking his face. He catches your hand, kisses it and holds it tight as you both walk to your booth. Philip is sitting very close, you don’t think he could be any closer to you if he tried. “You look beautiful Baby Girl”, he whispers in your ear as the waiter arrives to take your drink orders. You try to ignore his comment and order one of their signature drinks that you absolutely love. After the waiter leaves, Philip leans in close, places his hand on your right thigh and gives it a light squeeze. Staring into your eyes he says softly, “I missed you Nikki”. Your heart skips a beat and your love jumps simultaneously. You missed him too but still feel the ache from the scar tissue around your broken heart. You smile, remove his hand and lean into him, “Lunch and only lunch, remember?”. He smirks and looks away, “Yeah, I remember”. The drinks come and you both review the menu. You steer him to some of your favorites. After you both order, you sit back, take a sip of your Blushing Geisha and try to ignore the fact that he won’t stop staring at you. He sips his drink and continues to stare. You can’t take it anymore. “Please stop staring at me”, you request looking away. He smiles and turns your face toward him. “I’m sorry. It’s just I’m so happy you’re here. You look just as beautiful as I remember. I love that color on you Nikki”. You mentally high-five the White House Black Market sales associate. “Thank you”, you reply. He’s still staring except now his face is inches from yours. You take a deep breath and mistakingly lick your lips. Philip moves in to kiss you but you place your hand on his chest, pushing him away and look down. He sighs, “I know. Lunch and only lunch”. The food arrives and you use it as an opportunity to spark conversation. “So, what have you been up to these past few months?”. He smiles, “Working. You know, making music”. He pops a California Roll into his mouth and says, “I been doing what I do, you know”. You laugh because he’s being silly. You take a bite of your Spicy Tuna Roll just as he asks you, “So, who’s new…I mean…what’s new in your life?”. You scrunch your nose up at him for that intentional slip of the tongue. You refuse to address it though. “I’ve been working. Taking care of patients. You know doing what I do”, you mock. He laughs out loud and his dimples emerge begging you to kiss them. You look away. 
 Lunch is delicious and the drinks are even more so. You are so glad you took a taxi because after 5 Blushing Geisha’s, you couldn’t drive anywhere. Philip is seriously buzzed. He’s playing in your hair. “I like this hair style on you. But honestly, I miss your natural curls. You look so cute with your natural curls”. You can’t help but blush. “Thanks. They’re in there, they are just straight right now”. Philip’s hand leaves your hair and caresses your face. Staring intently into your eyes, his lips are dangerously close to yours. You feel yourself leaning in to him. Your lips graze and you open your eyes remembering Cherry’s warning. Philip caresses the back of your head and kisses you ever so lightly on the lips. Your love is soaking wet and your hand is resting on his growing fondness. The waiter clears his throat and you both snap back to reality. “I apologize sir but is there anything else I can get for you?”. You check the time. It’s 4:47pm. ‘WOW! We’ve been here a while’, you think to yourself. Philip notices the time as well. “No. No, thank you. Just the check please”. You quickly change the subject, “So, what time should I meet you at the venue?”. Philip shakes his head, “Nah, I’ll pick you up in the car. No worries. Where are you staying?”. You begin to rattle off the name of your hotel without thinking, “The Hilton Garden…”. You stop abruptly realizing that it’s probably not a good idea for him to have your hotel information. “Uh…It’s fine. I’ll take a taxi or something”, you finish. Philip smiles, “No, I’ll pick you up. It’s fine. So, the Hilton Garden Inn DC right?”. You wince, “Yeah..”. “Ok, we’ll be there at 6:40pm. Is that ok?”. You nod, “Sure”. ‘Well, he doesn’t have my room number’, you think trying to make yourself feel better. 
You walk out to the front of the restaurant and realize you need a taxi. You try hard not to let Philip notice. “So, where’d you park? I’ll walk you to your car”. ‘FUCK!’, you think to yourself. “No, Philip it’s fine. I’ll be ok”. “Nikki, you had 5 drinks I’m pretty sure you need an escort to your car. I saw you stumble a bit on the way out”. You look down. “I didn’t drive. I took a taxi. I’ll get one back Philip. I’m fine really”. His eyes grow wide. “Oh wait! I do remember you telling me how much you hate driving around DC. No need for you to take a taxi. I’ll have the driver drop you off. No problem”, he says wrapping his arm around your waist and steering you toward the blacked out Yukon. You barely move. “I’m fine. Really Philip”. You walk toward the curb and start to hail a taxi. One stops and you start to get in, “I’ll see you at 6:40 Philip”. “Nikki wait!”, Philip starts, jogging toward the taxi but you slam the door and insist the driver take off. You sit back in the seat and breathe a sigh of relief, “Woooo”. Your phone rings. You know who it is. You silence it and try to enjoy the short ride. 
Soon you are back at your hotel room. It’s 5:15pm. You start to pin your hair back up and draw a nice warm bath. You need to wash his charm and personality off of you. You’re shocked Cherry hasn’t called or texted you. You call her. “WHAT’S WRONG?!”, she answers immediately. “Do I need to come down?”. You giggle, “Calm your ass down. I’m fine. I just got back from lunch. I’m about to take a bath”. There is a knock on your hotel room door. Your heart stops. ‘No, no, no’, you think to yourself. “Who the fuck is that? Nikki is that him? It better not be him”, Cherry threatens. “Or what chick? Hold on”. You put the phone down and put on your kimono as you walk to the door. You nervously look through the peephole. It’s the concierge. You open door, “Can I help you?”. “Ah, ma’am I apologize but these came for you and I was to bring them up to you directly”. He hands you a large bouquet of pink roses and stargazer lilies with an envelope attached. You smile taking the bouquet, “Thank you”. You realize you have no cash to tip him as he turns to leave. “Uh…I’m sorry but I don’t have any cash on me right now”. He turns around, “Oh don’t worry I was tipped by the gentleman that sent them. Enjoy your night ma’am”. You close the door and hear Cherry yelling your name over the phone. You pick it up. “Damn! I could hear you all the way in the other room. I’m fine. Someone sent me flowers”. “Uh huh. Who? As if I didn’t know”. You open the envelope addressed to “Baby Girl”. The card reads: ‘I enjoyed your company this afternoon more than you could ever know. I can’t wait to see you again tonight. Please consider wearing your natural curls for me. One of these lilies would be perfect in your hair. Yours, Philip’. “Hold up! You bet not EVEN be considering undoing all my hard ass work straightening your damn hair!”. You are smiling from ear to ear as you lay the flowers down and slide into the tub. “No Cherish, I’m not going to undo your style. The curls came out perfectly by the way. Thanks”. “You’re welcome. Although, you could've sent me a picture heifer. You are something else”. You laugh and tell her all about your lunch date. 
It’s 6pm when you slide out of the tub. “Aight girlie, I gotta get ready. He’s picking me up at 6:40pm”. “Ok girl. Text me when you get back. Have fun but don’t fuck him”. “Bye Cherry”. You begin the process of getting dressed. You only wear make-up on very special occasions and this qualifies. You start to put on your make up and un-pin your curls. “Not bad”, you smirk at yourself in the mirror. You slide into your little black dress and heels. You admire yourself in the mirror. It’s a rare occasion you find yourself attractive but you must admit, you look good. Your bouquet catches your eye. ‘One of these lilies would be perfect in your hair’, you remember from the card. You take one of the smaller lily blossoms and place it in the left side of your hair. You think for a minute and move it to the right side. It does actually look nice in your hair. It’s 6:37pm. You should head down to the lobby. You grab your clutch and head down. You step off the elevator and Philip is already waiting for you in the lobby. His black Tom Ford suit is wearing him well. He looks amazing. Philip’s eyes light up like a Christmas tree when he sees you. He walks up to you, wraps his arms around you and kisses you. You are helpless to stop him and honestly you really don’t want to. Looking into your eyes he whispers, “You look amazing Nikki. And the lily is perfect”. You are pretty sure you are blushing. “Thank you. You look very handsome Philip”. He smiles and brushes his shoulders. “Shall we?”, he asks extending his arm for your hand. You oblige and you both head out to the car.
It’s a short ride to the Mandarin Oriental but with Philip whispering in your ear the entire time, it seemed like the longest ride in history. “You look delicious”, coupled with his hand under your dress, on your thigh is making you warm all over. You know you need to stop him so you move his hand and slide over toward the door. Philip looks somewhere between shocked and hurt. You can’t bear to look at him, so you stare out the window. He gets the hint. “Ok, ok. I get it. I’ll leave you alone…for now”, he whispers turning away from you. The car arrives at the venue. You are a little surprised to see a red carpet with some photographers. You reapply your lipstick and fix your hair…just in case. You notice the driver step out and prepare to open the door. Philip slides close to you and caresses your face. “You look perfect”, he murmurs kissing you softly. You open your eyes and notice him staring at your lily. “Hmm. Let’s fix this”. He moves it from the right side of your hair to the left. Kissing you deeper he whispers, “You are taken tonight”. You have no defense against his charms as his hand slides down your body hitting every curve. Philip steps out of the car and extends his hand to you. You gracefully step out of the car and his arm immediately wraps around your waist. Looking intently into your eyes he whispers, “You ready?”. ‘No!’ , you wanna yell but instead you whisper, “As ready as I can be”. He pulls you closer and kisses your cheek. Lingering near your ear he whispers, “You’re gonna be great”. You both step onto the red carpet. A few photographers are calling his name for pictures. You try to step away so you won’t be in the picture but he refuses to let go of your waist. You take a few pictures together. Philip is being VERY affectionate. He even lifts your chin and kisses you in a few photos. You can hear Cherry’s mouth once she see’s these pictures but right now you don’t care. You are floating.
You enter the ballroom and are in complete awe of the beautiful Asian inspired decor. Philip notices your expression and smiles, “I knew you’d love it”. You both find your way to your table and sit. Philip immediately requests a bottle of Malbec for you. You look down and smile, “You remembered”. Lifting your head he states sincerely, “I’ll never forget that night Nikki”. Your mind flashes back to the first night you met. His hands gripping your thighs, your skirt pushed up to your waist, your panties pushed to the side as his python ravaged your love over and over. Your panties are drenched and your face is flushed just from the memory. Noticing, he leans in placing his hands on your crossed legs and whispers “You ok?”. You snap out of your thoughts and are little embarrassed. “Yes, I’m fine”, you reply clearing your throat and sitting up straight. He kisses you lightly on the cheek. “I can’t stop thinking about it either”, he smirks. Your face flushes again. The waiter pours your glass of wine and you down it immediately. Philip takes the glass out of your hand and places it down on the table. Chuckling, he whispers, “Slow down Baby Girl”. You shift uncomfortably in your chair. ‘I knew I should’ve told him no’, you think regretting this entire day. He’s looking way too good sitting next to you and your self control is slowing inching toward the door. The waiter takes your order. As soon as he leaves, Philip stands, “Let’s take a walk Nikki. I want you to see this place”. That’s what his mouth says but his eyes are saying, ‘Come on Baby Girl. You need some fresh air’.    
 You feel like a little girl in a fairytale castle as you wander in awe around the grandiose rooms. “It’s so beautiful here!”, you exclaim to no one in particular. Philip replies, “Yes it is”. He smiles as he watches you gawk at various designs and architecture. You are standing in front of the largest window you’ve ever seen. You traipse around, not paying attention to where you are going and bump right into him. Smiling up at him, you apologize, “Sorry”. He smiles. You continue to gaze out at the newness of the night beginning to fall. The stars are beginning to appear on the darkening blue sky. You feel his eyes on you and pretend not to notice. It doesn’t help. Before you know it, his arms are around your waist and you both are face to face in the first moonlight. Brushing the hair away from your face, he quietly says, “Dance with me beautiful”. You glance up at him and just smile. Placing one hand on the small of your back and interlacing the other with yours, Philip begins to sway slowly back and forth. You decide to go with it. You place your head on his shoulder and can hear him humming. You aren’t sure of the song but it doesn’t matter as long as you’re in his arms. He rests your hand on his shoulder while his hand joins the other on the small of your back. Pulling you close, you can feel the heat brewing between you. You look up to find him staring at you. His hands travel up under your hair to caress your face while he kisses you slowly but deeply. Your body trembles and he can feel it. He holds you closer as your tongues dance to the beat of a lovers song that only the two of you can hear. His hands meander down to caress your ass and things get intense. You can feel that python awaken. You have to stop. You push Philip away…reluctantly. He looks disappointed. “What’s wrong?”, he asks walking toward you. You take a step back and reply, “We should probably get back”. He sighs and extends his hand to you, “Ok”. 
Dinner is delicious but awkward as hell. The couples at the table are very friendly but Philip seems to be giving you the cold shoulder. You decide to ignore him and drink yourself happy. After a little while, you are VERY happy and can’t help but notice just how FIONE Philip looks in that suit. You fix your gaze on him while you try to push Cherry’s voice out of your head. Your inhibitions and self control waltz out the door arm-in-arm as you pour the last of the Malbec and place the empty bottle on the table. Philip notices and stares for a moment. You prepare for a lecture but are surprised when he winks and smiles. He slides his hand across the table to yours and gives it a gentle squeeze. You can’t help but notice those perfect imperfections daring you to get closer. You mouth, “I’m sorry”, as you rub his hand between both of yours. He shakes his head “no” and slides his chair close to you. Lifting your chin with his index finger he kisses you. “I’m the one who should be sorry, Baby. Not you”. You can see remorse in those beautiful brown pools of perfection. Kissing you again he asks, “You ready to go?”. You nod. You are ready to leave. You’re just not ready to leave him. You both say good night to the couples at the table and exchange pleasantries on your way out of the venue. 
It’s a storybook scene, warm summer night with a light balmy breeze and a clear starry sky. You are doing your best not to look as drunk as you really are. You lean close to Philip and thank God his arm never leaves your waist. You stumble slightly but Philip’s arm holds you close. He presses his lips near your ear and murmurs, “I’m right here and I got you. I’m not letting go”. You don’t have to look up at him to see his expression. You can feel those bedroom eyes burning into you. As you wait for the car, you lean on Philip’s chest and listen to his heart beat. It’s so calming. He kisses the top of your head and you look up. There are quite a few people waiting for their cars as well. Philip looks at you and whispers, “Wanna go for a walk?”. You smile in agreement. You both walk toward the lights of the harbor. The fresh air is helping to make you feel better. You are no where near as intoxicated as you were but Philip’s arm never leaves your waist. You walk away from him to stare at the allure of the moonlight bathing the bay. It’s truly an exquisite sight. “How beautiful you sigh,” staring at the bay. Philip agrees, “Very”. Or so you thought as you look up to find him staring at you. You know that look and it’s dangerous. You stand and begin to walk away. He quickly grabs your wrist and pulls you close. You look away but he caresses your face and kisses your forehead and nose. He looks into your eyes as he says, “I’ve been an asshole. I know and I’m sorry. I know you think I’m just throwing game but I’m serious. I’m always thinking about you. You mean more to me then what you think”. He kisses you softly at first then with more intensity as he pulls you closer to his body. The heat between the two of you is undeniable. Your love is jumping and that python is growing by the minute. Philip’s hands are traveling slowly up your thighs. You stroke that python and immediately realize you’re not going to be able to keep your promise to Cherry. Philip’s arms draw you in closer and you feel that python double in size. His tongue finds yours just as you both hear footsteps approaching. You don’t stop, you can’t. You’re bodies are one and it has a mind of own at this point. Seeing you both in a deep lovers embrace, the valet stops abruptly and looks away. “Ahem. Mr. Lawrence, your car is waiting”. Neither of you acknowledge him as the footsteps quickly return in the direction from whence they came. You both break for air and Philip leads you toward the car. 
Inside the car, Philip rolls up the partition and you both continue making out like two 16 year olds on prom night. You swear he has 5 pair of hands because they are everywhere - rubbing, squeezing, caressing EVERY inch of your body. Neither of you realize the car has come to a stop until the driver knocks on the window. Philip rolls down the window just a crack and asks, “Yes?”. The driver (whose back is turned to you both) says, “Sir, we have arrived at the lady’s hotel”. “Thank you”, Philip responds and rolls up the window. You smile shyly at him and fix your dress and hair. You refuse to walk through the lobby looking like a hooker. When you are ready, you knock on the window and the driver opens the door. You straighten your dress, thank the driver and casually walk into the hotel. Philip isn’t far behind you watching your every move. You can feel his eyes sliding up and down your curves and you smile to yourself. You wait at the elevator with an older gentleman and Philip’s eyes never leave you. The elevator opens and the three of you walk in. You and Philip stand apart at the back of the elevator while the older gentleman waits patiently at the front. You glance over and see Philip licking his lips as he stares at your breasts. The elevator stops at the 5th floor and the older gentleman steps out. The doors close and you expect Philip to pounce on you but he doesn’t. He stands there watching you and smiling. You reach the 12th floor and exit the elevator with Philip close behind. You walk to your hotel door and open it. Before you step inside, you turn and smile at Philip who is still a few steps behind you. You leave your card key in the door as the door closes. You walk over to the chair to remove your heels. Before you can finish, the door opens and Philip walks in. He throws your card key on the table and stands behind you. You know what he wants but he’s waiting for your permission. You step back into him and ask coyly, “Would you mind unzipping me?”. “It would be my pleasure, Baby Girl”. He moves your hair from your neck and kisses it. He leaves kisses on your shoulders and every inch of your skin revealed as he unzips your dress. You let your dress fall to the floor and turn to face him. Stroking your hair, he whispers, “Are you sure about this?”. You reply honestly, “No. But I know I don’t want you to leave”. Kissing you, he picks you up and lays you onto the bed. He begins to remove his clothes but his eyes stay fixed on yours. He lays his warm milk chocolate body on top of yours and you melt. You roll him over and straddle him. He smirks. Stroking your hair, his hands move down and unfastens your bra. Freeing your breasts, he kisses each softly then licks and nibbles at each nipple. You moan to his satisfaction. That python is poised and ready to strike as it presses hard against your love. Your panties are so wet, they are stuck to you and it’s uncomfortable. Philip rolls you over and pins you onto your back. You smirk because clearly, you are not in control tonight. As if reading your mind, his hands carefully remove your panties and toss them on the floor. Sliding between your legs, he pauses as if he’s giving you the opportunity to change your mind. You remove his frames and kiss his face as you push yourself onto that waiting python. Philip is very gentle initially and you are thankful. He’s larger than what you remember and your love is being stretched to it’s limits. You wince and he stops immediately, “Am I hurting you?”. You kiss him softly and push your love further onto his hardness. You can hear your cell phone ringing and know exactly who it is. You push it out of your mind. Philip slowly thrusts in and out of your love while you moan in shear ecstasy. “Ah…”, is the only sound that escapes your lips as he grinds deep hitting your G-spot. You can feel the embers ignite into a conflagration that cannot be extinguished. You scream and push him back as you squirt your love all over the bed. He grins proudly while you tremble in his arms. As that python glides slowly back into your garden, Philip kisses your forehead, nose and lips. Your love is more accommodating this time. You wrap your legs around his waist and push your love onto him. He kisses you deeply and grinds inside your love. He’s hitting the back of your walls and it’s causing your body to tremble. Philip's body begins to tremble as he fights the urge to release his satisfaction. He groans and that python comes to rest on your thigh. You feel his fingers begin to stroke that moist center of your love that is hard and extremely sensitive. “Mmmmmm”, you moan arching your back slightly. Philip continues to kiss you as his fingers slide inside of you. “Oh…my…God…”, you whisper feeling him hit that target with marksman like precision once again. You try so hard to hold back but you can’t, you’re under his control. His fingers hit your bullseye as his thumb strokes your clit sending you to paradise. You explode all over his hand and he smiles with delight. You are a puddle of satisfaction in his arms. His python slithers carefully back into your garden and grinds slowly but deep inside your walls. Philip is very deep inside your love hitting it so hard, you swear he’s touching your back. He moans as sweat begins to form on his brow. You uncross your legs from around him and use your arms to pull him down onto you. Holding him close, you feel his muscles spasm as that python releases its venom with a fatal bite. Philip rolls to his side and pulls you close. You feel safe and warm in his arms. You are exhausted and can feel sleep overcoming you. You look up at him and kiss his sweet lips. You swear they taste like brown sugar. “I love you Philip…”, you say just as sleep overpowers you. He kisses the top of your head and pulls the blanket to cover you both as he follows you into dreamland. 
You wake up smiling. You reach for Philip but instead find 3 long stem red roses and a letter on the pillow next to you. You sit up and call to him but know in your heart he’s already gone. You sigh and slide to the end of the bed hanging your head, “Not again. Nicole you are dumb as hell”. You wince feeling that dull ache from last nights sexual exploits. You lift one of the roses to your nose as you read the letter. “My dearest Nikki, I know what you're thinking. I tried EVERYTHING to move my flight back but I couldn’t. I stayed as long as I could. You looked so peaceful, I couldn’t wake you. I hope you can forgive me for leaving. I want to see you again soon. Yours, Philip”. You smile wanting to believe him. Your cell phone rings. You know it’s Cherry and you know she’s pissed. You didn’t call her when you got in and you broke your promise. You answer the phone, “Hello?”. “WHERE THE HELL HAVE YOU BEEN?!”, comes blaring through the phone. “Good morning Cherry”, you reply calmly smiling from ear to ear. “IS HE THERE? NIKKI IS HE STILL THERE?”, she asks already knowing you broke your promise. Before you can answer there is a knock at your door, “Room service”. You stare at the door thinking they have the wrong room. “Hold on girl”, you say putting the phone down. You can still hear Cherry laying you out on the phone. You grab your kimono and open the door. “Good morning ma’am! Here’s your room service”, the gentleman says warmly rolling in a cart. “Sweetheart, I didn’t order any room service this morning. I think you have the wrong room”, you explain. “Oh! The gentleman that left this morning ordered it for you. Everything has already been taken care of”, he explains as he backs out of the room. “Enjoy the rest of your day ma’am”, he smiles as he closes the door behind him. You stare at the large silver cover concealing your meal. You remove the cover to find a single stargazer lily, a cup of coffee (just like you like it), scrambled eggs, bacon and toast. There’s also some strawberries, bananas and grapes. Between the vase holding the flower and your coffee, there is an envelope addressed to you. You hear Cherry screaming at you over the phone and pick it up. “Yes Cherry?”, you ask knowing full well what she wants to know. “You had me on my damn way to DC. I didn’t know where you were or what happened to you! Is that nigga still over there?” You answer calmly, “I’m sorry Cherry and no, he’s not here”. You pick up the envelop and open it. It’s a roundtrip first-class ticket to LA with a note that reads, “I love you too. Yours, Philip”. You drop the phone.