Page 16 of Cookies and Cream

“Lala? Is that you?”

That voice calling me that nickname is something I didn’t think I’d ever hear again. I’m not sure why because even though we broke up, I knew Vincent still lived in Dallas.

I turn to the side and see my ex is entirely too close for my liking. I instinctively take a step toward Simon. And like the protector he is, he wraps his arms around me.

Vincent looks the same. His dark blond hair is long on the top and short on the sides, showing off his angular clean-shaven face. The blue of his eyes are bright, and his tanned skin is highlighted by the green Polo he’s wearing. Vincent is cute, but I know his attractiveness decreases with each word that flies out of his mouth.

“Hey, Vince.” My voice is as bland as his mama’s potato salad, and I know he noticed my lack of emotional response.

I know to keep myself in check when dealing with my ex because he loves to bring out my emotions. He’s the definition of a gaslighter. I will never give him the satisfaction of garnering any reaction out of me ever again. Good or bad, I will be a straight robot on his ass.

“Are you going to introduce me to your friend?”

I frown before I can stop myself, but when Simon tightens his hold and pulls me into his side, I know he’s caught on to who this is and why I’m uncomfortable.

“No,” I reply.

Simon and I have talked extensively about our past traumas. I was a people pleaser because I was afraid of being a failure. I stayed at jobs, in relationships, and generally took bullshit from people because I didn’t want to be viewed as the “bad guy.”

It wasn’t the first time I’d been told this, but it was the first time I decided to do something about it. Being reckless in Vegas when I met Simon wasn’t just about me getting my groove back. It was me rebelling against being a people pleaser. I was trying to prove to myself that I didn’t have to live up to societal norms. It wasn’t the smartest thing I’ve ever done, but I understand myself enough now to admit why I did it. And even though it turned out great, in this day and age, I could’ve ended up trafficked or dead.I know better, so I’ll do better.

“What do you mean, no?” Vincent chuckles, looking between Simon and me as if I told a joke.

I know he can’t believe I told him no. I probably never said the word to him in the entirety of our relationship.

“I mean, you look kinda slow, but I’m pretty sure you understand what no means.” Simon steps slightly in front of me.

I’ve seen Simon get physical when kicking some rowdy drunks out of his bar and once when he had to break up a fight. Simon is not a small man at six-four and a good two-twenty of ripped muscle. He can definitely hold his own. Vincent is tall, but where Simon is stocky, Vincent is lanky and slim. And although Vincent can talk shit with the best of them, I have never seen him throw a punch in his life.

If I were to guess, his mother probably fought most of his battles for him. She definitely did enough fighting on his behalf in our relationship.

“Who the fuckareyou?” Vincent asks.

“I’m her man. Who the fuck else would I be? You are slow.” Simon shakes his head with mock sadness.

He’s such a smart-ass.I don’t laugh because I’m sure it would make this situation worse, but I cough to cover my chuckle.

“Her man? Lala, can we talk? I’ve tried texting and calling, but I guess you didn’t get my messages.”

“I didn’t get either because I blocked your number.”

I think Simon is right. Vincent does act a little touched.

“Why would you do that? I know I made some mistakes, but come on now. It’s been long enough.”

“Man, get the fuck outta here. I know damned well you ain’t that bold to ask my woman for a second chance while I’m standing here. I will bust you in your motherfucking mouth.” Simon steps forward, but I tug his arm, so he doesn’t pummel this idiot in the middle of Kroger.

Vincent’s face is red, and he backs up, “Lala? Are you gonna let this guy talk to me like that?”

What a pussy! He wants me to fight his battles even though we’re not together.

“Boy, what? I haven’t seen or talked to you in over a year… thank God. But what makes you think I owe you anything? This is the weirdest, most unnecessary conversation I have ever had in my life. Simon, I want white wine. Can we go, please?” I turn around, ignoring my blubbering ex, and look at my boyfriend expectantly.

“Yes, ma’am.” Simon salutes and grabs a bottle of white wine. “You know I love it when you’re sassy. That shit turns me on.”

“Everything turns you on, silly.” I kiss Simon’s lips. “Thank you for being you.”

“I can only be me, Cookie. So does that thank you mean after I cook dinner, you will be dessert?”