Page 22 of Bern and Isley (D-Ville Projects #5)

Isley

Eight weeks later

“I think it would be good for you to get out of the house, friend.”

“It’s too hot.” I rolled my eyes at Snow.

It wasn’t a lie, but it wasn’t the full truth.

Physically, I had healed from the car accident, but emotionally I was still dealing with the grief of losing Angel.

That was what I called my unborn child. It was the name I planned to use whether it was a boy or girl since it was unisex.

I hated Marshall with my whole heart for taking my baby from me.

And I hoped his soul was tormented in hell.

I was glad that I survived the accident.

His parents had the nerve to be salty because I refused to attend his services, but why would I?

The nigga was responsible for me losing our child and he almost took my life too.

“You know they’re going to have all of those food trucks out there. You know you want some fried Oreos.”

She had me there. Fried Oreos sounded good. DP was hosting its annual block party. It was always a huge event and everyone in the community and surrounding areas were welcome.

“And you know that dessert truck with those fancy beignets will be there too.”

All of the junk food sounded tempting as hell, but I wasn’t sure I was ready to be around a bunch of kids. Word had gotten around about my accident and I was tired of the stares of pity.

“I told Bernie that I would think about it.” I shrugged.

“Speaking of him, where do y’all stand since he poured out his heart to you?”

“Nothing has changed. We haven’t even spoken on it since that day to be honest.”

“Damn, Isley. You’re cold.”

“What? The last few weeks have been a lot to process.”

“I can understand that. But how do you feel about him? Can you see yourself being more than friends?”

I hesitated to answer. I knew what my heart wanted, but I had never verbalized it. Going from friends to lovers was risky. Could Bern and I take that next step without ruining the love we shared? Was it worth the gamble?

“He’s obviously not pressing the issue, but I think you should really consider it.

The love that man has for you has always been evident.

Even now, think about it, you haven’t worked since the accident, but he has stepped in and paid all of the bills for you and your aunt.

On top of having his mama come over and tend to your aunt while you recover. ”

“Yeah, I appreciate everything he’s done. And when I get back on my feet, I’m going to repay him for everything.”

“Girl, please. He doesn’t want any payment from you. That man is doing all of that out of his love for you.”

“I know. I know. I’m going to figure it out,” I insisted.

“Alright, I hope you change your mind about coming out to the block party. I’m headed out that way.” She came over and hugged me. “I love you.”

“I love you too.”

Snow left and I was left all alone. Aunt Fee was hanging out with Ms. Cynthia and they were going to the block party too. I planned to lounge around all day and rewatch some of my comfort movies. I was about to throw a bag of popcorn in the microwave when there was a knock at the door.

I knew that knock from anywhere. I opened the door and Bern walked in.

His woodsy cologne followed him inside. He was dressed in a simple white V-neck tee with acid washed shorts. “Get dressed. You’re going with me to the block party.”

“Bern, I’m not really up to it.”

“Isley, I’m not asking you. You’ve been cooped up in the house too long.

Get dressed. I’ll wait.” His dark brown eyes bored into me before he plopped down on the sofa.

I stood and stared back at him before finally relenting.

I headed for my room to find something to wear.

I finally settled on a simple olive-green tank with a khaki skirt and tan sandals.

I pulled my mini-twists into a low bun. I decided to skip putting on makeup because it was too hot for all of that.

I threw on gold accessories and sprayed body mist before returning to the living room.

“You look good.” Bern rose from the sofa. “Now bring your fine ass on.”

I tried to hold back my grin as I followed him.

It didn’t take us long to make it down to the festivities.

Surprisingly, just stepping on the scene instantly lifted my mood.

So many people came up to hug and love on me.

And seeing the children running around playing in the bounce houses and getting their faces painted didn’t make me sad like I thought it would.

It actually made me hopeful. One day I would have a healthy pregnancy and bring my child or children to the annual block party.

“You want something to eat?” Bern asked as we walked down the block. “I know your appetite’s probably still a little sketchy.”

He was right. Due to grief and depression, I hadn’t been eating as much as usual.

“I actually want some nachos and a funnel cake.”

“Okay, let’s see which one of these trucks has that.”

It didn’t take us long to find the food I wanted. Bern grabbed a turkey leg then we found a couple of seats.

“So how are you feeling today?” Bern asked as we began to eat.

I finished chewing the chip in my mouth before responding. “I’m having an okay day, honestly. I didn’t want to come to the block party, but I’m glad you forced me to.” I rolled my eyes playfully.

“I’m glad to hear that. You just have to take it one day at a time. As always, you know I’m here for you.”

“Yeah, I know. And I can’t thank you enough for the way you’ve held me down. I don’t know what I would have done without you.”

“Trust me, you’ll never have to find out. I’m always going to be here for you. You mean everything to me.”

I took a break from eating to search Bern’s eyes. Sincerity and complete adoration stared back at me. This man truly did love me real bad. It was the pure unadulterated love I’d always wanted from a man.

“Bern, what’s up, man?” Arris approached us, dapping Bern up and nodding my way. “What’s up, Isley?”

“Hello,” I greeted, then started in on my funnel cake.

“How’s that tattoo healing up?”

“It’s all good. I got another idea in mind that I need to hit you about.”

“Cool. That’s what’s up. Just holla at me whenever.”

“Aight, bet,” Bern answered as Arris walked off.

“I didn’t know you got a new tattoo.” I eyed Bern. It wasn’t a big deal, but I was surprised he didn’t mention it in passing.

Arris was the coldest tattoo artist around. Two weeks after I lost my baby, I got Angel with wings tatted on the upper middle part of my back.

“I hadn’t gotten around to it, but I’ll show you later. Want to walk around some more or are you ready to go back to the apartment?”

“I want to stay a little longer.”

“Alright, cool. Let’s see what else is going on.”