Page 94 of My Heart Belongs to You

“I don’t know why. You see how many plates Mel’s hungry ass had.”

“Yeah, I had to cut him off.”

“What are you doing after this?”

“Showering and sleeping for twelve hours minimum.”

I nodded, knowing how busy she’d been lately. Mondays were our days off. I’d hoped she would use that time to rest.

“I could use some cuddles too.”

“We’re closer to my place. Stay with me tonight. I have to help break down, but I shouldn’t be there too long after you leave,” I told her while reaching into my pocket for my parking pass.

Robyn accepted the card; skepticism filled her eyes. “Where are you going to park?”

“Don’t worry about that.”

She smiled then said, “Thanks, my darling. Can’t wait to cuddle later.”

“Neither can I.”

Two hours after the shower ended, Mel and I found ourselves at Buttercup Biscuit Co for an ice cream social Peaches hosted. Kenya was at the counter taking orders while Peaches fulfilled them.

“Kenya, when did you get here?” I asked once I reached the register.

“As soon as the shower ended. I had to come and help my girl.”

“Respect. Can I get two pints? One cookies and cream and the other blueberry crumble.”

Kenya punched in the order then sighed. “It’ll be a wait for the pints.”

I checked my watch. It was a quarter to ten and I was eager to get home.

“If you want, we can have it delivered. Peaches has her brother doing drop-offs. I know you’re not too far from here.”

“That works for me.”

After completing my order, I peeped that Mel was occupied with Peaches, so I made my exit. He saw me walking toward the doors and threw up two fingers. Peaches waved, then resumed scooping ice cream. The scent of sugary goodness was soon replaced with the earthy smell of fresh rain. I was even more eager to get home to Robyn. Rain, my woman, and a nice playlist sounded like the perfect night.

Five minutes later, I was parking across the street from my place. As I entered the lobby of my apartment building, I locked eyes with Deira. A slow smile spread across her face while my expression remained deadpan. I needed to nip this in the bud tonight. She stood from her post and rounded the glass desk.

“Hey. I was wondering if you were in tonight.”

My strides slowed as I neared her. I didn’t know what to say, feeling a little guilty for not reaching out sooner.

“You free?”

Shaking my head, I replied, “I’m not. I’ve been meaning to talk to you.”

Deira licked her lips. Heat radiated off her and her eyes pierced into mine. “Can we talk upstairs?”

“We can’t see each other anymore.” I realized skirting the topic was useless. Deira had one thing on her mind and I needed to dead it.

“Oh,” she said, then looked away. “That explains why I haven’t heard from you in a while.”

“I should’ve told you sooner.”

“It’s fine.”