Page 107 of Full Court Press

“Never too busy for you.”

“Okay, so I need your help.”

“What’s that?”

“My mom’s neighbor’s dog had puppies, and I asked Dad if I could get one, and he told me no. Can you like, try to convince him to let me have one? They’re sooo stinking cute!”

“Aww, what kind of dog is it?”

“A Shih Tzu. Answer the FaceTime.”

I answered the FaceTime, and the video populated of Kiy holding the small, multi-colored cutie that was all white with brown, gray, and tan spots, and a smile on Kiy’s golden face.

“Isn’t she cute?”

“She is! I love her colors.”

“Can you convince him, pleeeassee?”

I chuckled at the cute pout on her face. “I will talk to him. In the meantime, what do you want to name her?”

“Eek!” She screeched in excitement. “I like the name Aria!”

“That’s pretty. Okay, let me talk to daddy, and I’ll text you the answer, okay?”

“Okay! Byyyeee!” She hung up, and I called Khalil.

The phone rang three times before he finally picked up.

“Mi Amor. What’s good?” he asked, sounding out of breath.

“Nothing. What are you doing?”

“Shooting around with Is. You good?”

“Yes, everything’s fine. Kiy just called⁠—”

“The answer is no, Mi Amor,” he said, cutting me off.

I laughed. “You didn’t even let me finish.”

“Because I know what you’re about to say. I don’t want that lil’ ugly-ass ankle biter in my crib. If she wants a pet, she can get a turtle, hamster, or a snake. Something that stays in a glass and don’t require much maintenance.”

“But she really wants the dog, babe. I promise to stay on her about its upkeep. Give her one month; if she doesn’t do right by it, we’ll get rid of it.”

“Y’all killing me, baby. A’ight, it’s on you when she gets to crying that we gotta send that lil’ motherfucka to the pound.”

“Yayy! You’re the best daddy,” I purred.

“Mm. Say that shit again.”

“You’re the best daddy in the whole world,” I repeated.

“I’ma fuck them braids out ya head when you get here.”

I bit my lip. “You promise?”

“I do.”