Page 34 of When I Thug You Like That

“Right on time,” she said, handing me yet another tray.

“I’m starting to feel like I work in this joint. What’s the gold shit on there?”

“It’s edible. I’m tryna gain you some points. Just say thank you.”

“Thank you, Ry.”

“You’re welcome. You need somebody to run it for you?”

“Nah. I’ma take it.”

Grabbing the food, I took it to the table.

“Oh, you showing off,” Taina said once I got closer. “You went gold flakes on us? Them white distilleries could neva!”

“Yo,” I laughed, “you funny as hell. This is spinach and artichoke dip, the other is crab dip, then some Wagyu sliders.”

“Thank you,” they said in unison, admiring the plate.

“Who do we see about the check?” Jai’ana questioned, making it clear that she didn’t want me taking care of the bill.

“Yeah, who she gotta see? ‘Cause as soon as you said Wagyu, I knew I was not paying.”

“Mannn,” I laughed, “I’m taking care of the bill whether you like it or not, Ms. Jai.”

“You know, for a nigga who got kids to go home to, you don’t look like you in a rush to get to them,” I heard Tay’s voice behind me and snickered.

“I’m just taking some extra care of these two special guests.” I pointed to the ladies and caught Jai’ana blush. “We celebrating.”

Tay stood next to me. “Somebody birthday?” he questioned. “How y’all doing?”

They both greeted him with genuine hey’s and waves.

“Nah,” I replied. “We’re celebrating Baby Jay enrolling into school. This is Ms. Jai, his teacher. And this is her best friend, Taina. Ladies, this is my cousin, Tay.”

“Nice to meet you,” Jai’ana said.

“You are very handsome,” Taina spoke openly.

Tay grinned. “Preciate the compliment, beautiful.”

“Now that we all know who’s who, I need to get into these sliders,” she said, picking one up.

“Hol’ on, don’t eat yet. Let me give y’all some privacy,” I suggested.

“Damn,” Taina let out, her excitement changing. “The food that bad?”

“Man, hell nah.” I chuckled and so did Tay. “I just wanna give y’all some privacy to enjoy y’all food and the rest of y’all girls’ night.”

“Oh, whew.” She wiped imaginary sweat from her forehead.

“If it’s nasty, who we tell?” Jai’ana asked with a smirk.

“Each other,” Tay cut in. “Still leave a good review on Google though.”

“Only ‘cause you cute,” Taina threw out.

This slick ass nigga blew her a kiss.