Page 35 of Emani's Way
“Kelvin had something else to do today,” she quickly dismisses as she looks down her nose at Maddox.
I find it funny that she never wants to talk about what’s going on with her relationship but can frown at my man, who she doesn’t even know.
“Zuri, this is Maddox, my boyfriend,” I introduce them anyway. Even with her frowning, I refuse to make Maddox feel like he’s not welcomed.
“Hi,” Maddox greets.
Zuri just nods without saying anything. She has the same expression on her face our Mama had when she met Maddox. I can only shake my head at her. I still don’t know what her problem is with me and Maddox, but at this point it doesn’t matter.
I decide just to ignore her and take Maddox’s hand with a smile. “Come on, babe. Let’s go.”
Once we’re inside the church, we head to the front of the sanctuary. We’re early, so I introduce Maddox to a few members. I knew they would have questions, but I didn’t realize just how nosy people are. At least everyone is somewhat welcoming and didn’t make it too awkward.
The church is one of the largest black churches in Dallas, but other races attend as well. After all, Christians come in all colors.
We are seated at the front of the church beside my Mama and sisters. The tension is thick, but it feels like something other than Maddox’s presence is causing it.
It does surprise me that Darrius is sitting behind my Daddy with the other prominent men of the church. I don’t know when that happened, but seeing his smug face makes my skin crawl. I can feel his eyes watching me, but I never make eye contact with him.
When the sermon starts, Daddy begins preaching about forgiveness. The testimonies from the congregation are all relatable. It’s amazing the power you hold when forgiving someone or the power someone can hold over you if you don’t forgive. I’ve never really experienced the deep grudges that one person talked about, but I can’t imagine walking around angry at someone who doesn’t even acknowledge that I’m alive.
When the service is over, I do my best to try to slip away. But, as we were making our way to the door, my Daddy stops us. My Mama and Zuri disappeared, so at least I won’t have to endure their berating today. Naomi is working, but because she’s a doctor working in the ER, she always gets a pass. And Amari didn’t even wait for the last amen before she was slipping out of the door.
“Emani, sweetheart. Can you please go and check to make sure the daycare is clear? We have a new volunteer, and she’s a little relaxed with the cleaning up.”
“Well, Maddox and I were just about to leave,” I say, hoping we can get out of here.
“I need to speak with Maddox. It will only take a second. We’ll be in my office once you finish in the daycare.” My Daddy nods at me.
It is more than obvious that he didn’t want me to hear whatever he wants to say to Maddox, so I just sigh and let go of Maddox’s hand.
“Don’t sweat it, Sugar. I’ll see ya in a minute.” Maddox grabs my hand again and kisses my palm.
I smile at him and turn to go to the daycare. As I walk down the hall, I hear voices coming from behind a closed door. Now, normally, I wouldn’t eavesdrop because that’s not my way, but something tells me to stop.
“Why ishehere? You said that Emani does whatever you say.” I hear a whiney male voice, and I instantly roll my eyes.
I know Darrius is talking about Maddox. He stared at us the entire service.
“Darrius, son. Emani is just going through a phase. She’ll come around. You just need to keep being persistent.”
I frown when I hear my mother encouraging this man. Why in the world would she tell him to keep pursuing me? I have made it absolutely clear that I am with Maddox.
“Emani is a little old to be going through phases. I shouldn’t be wasting my time on her if you don’t have control over her.”
“Listen, Emani isn’t important, and she doesn’t matter. But unfortunately we need her right now for this to work. You need to do as I say. I will get Emani to do what she’s told. She always does things my way.”
“Fine! But if she doesn’t come around, then we need to find a different way to do this. I’m tired of waiting.”
Before my mother can respond, the door flies open. I rush around the corner before anyone can see me. I hold my breath until I’m sure nobody is there, and I slip into the empty daycare. I don’t know what that was about, but I need to keep my guard up and stay away from Darrius and my mother.
Chapter15
MADDOX
When Dr. Jackson sent Emani off to another room, I knew that whatever he had to tell me was serious. Serious enough to discuss at the church of all places. That is definitely not good news.
I saw the jackass sitting behind the pulpit, and I watched him closely as his beady little eyes stayed on Emani. I can tell by his demeanor that he hasn’t given up yet.