Page 40 of Emani's Way

“It was really nice meeting you, Emani. If you need anything, you give me a call. Maddox can give you my number.” Sarah engulfs me in a tight hug, and her comfort almost makes me want to cry again.

Her motherly concern is genuine. And for the first time in my life, it makes me question my Mama’s behavior. I know that she’s capable of love and affection because she gives it to my sisters, but with me, it’s just… different.

“Thank you. It was nice meeting you as well,” I reply.

I just met this woman, but I can feel the care radiating from her. Although Joseph is a bit more reserved, he seems just as caring as his wife. I have to admit that I look forward to getting to know them better.

Joseph nods and gives me a warm smile, “It was nice to meet you, Emani. Tell your father I said hi.”

“Nice meeting you too, and I will,” I reply before Maddox ushers his parents out the door.

I plop down on the couch and exhale. When Maddox comes back into the living room, he sits down beside me and throws his arm behind my back.

“I’m sorry about the ambush, Sugar. I didn’t know they would show up like that.”

“No need to apologize.” I shrug. “It’s not like my parents didn’t ambush you.”

We share a laugh, but at the mention of my parents, an uneasy feeling pops back to the forefront of my mind. I can’t shake the dread, and it’s unlike me to feel this way.I have to talk to my Daddy.

“I hope you don’t mind the plans for this weekend. I’ll make sure my brother and Tae are there so you won’t be peppered with too many questions.”

“I appreciate that.” I lean over and gently kiss his lips.

Maddox deepens the kiss, and before long, all my worries are forgotten as he takes my breath away.

***

“So, how are things going with the hot lawyer? You’ve been real quiet about him lately. Even though I saw him drop you off tonight.” Shelby eyes me from across the table.

I grimace at her question. I haven’t seen or talked to my girls in forever, and she’s absolutely right. I’ve been MIA. I’ve never been a woman who neglects her friendships once I’m in a relationship, but I can admit I’ve been in a love bubble with Maddox since we reconciled.

“Sorry, Shell. It’s been crazy lately.”

“Crazy like how?” Kayla questions with a furrowed brow.

“Well, I’ve met his parents. We had dinner with them a few weeks ago. His whole family, actually. And I’ve been kinda living with Maddox.” I slip the last part in because it sounds crazy when I say it out loud.

“Wait a damn minute. Meeting the parents is important and all, but you’re living with this guy? Already?” Shelby bucks her eyes at me. “Now, I know I told you to live a little, Mani, but I think you took my words too far!” Shelby shouts with wide brown eyes.

“Yeah, that is a little crazy, Mani.” Kayla quickly throws her hands up in a surrendering motion, “I’m not judging. Just saying.”

“I didn’t really have a choice…”

“Listen, I don’t care how powerful lawyer boy is. I know people. If he forced you into some kinky shit, I’ll have his head!” Shelby interrupts me, and I can only shake my head.

This girl has had too much wine!

“Shell, calm down. I didn’t get to tell you guys about the stuff that went on. I didn’t want you to worry.”

The girls sit up, and I go through everything that has happened in the last few weeks since I’ve seen them. I didn’t tell either of them about the brick being thrown through my window because I didn’t want them to worry. I saw how my family reacted, and even Maddox seems a little paranoid lately. It was one brick thrown one time, but everyone was making such a big deal out of it that I didn’t want to make a fuss.

The first week was fine, and although Maddox had my window fixed by Monday and a new upgraded camera and security system by Tuesday, I haven’t stayed at home in weeks. And the longer I stay over his place without answers, the more worried I get.

“Why didn’t you tell us? You could’ve stayed with one of us. You didn’t have to move in with a man you just started dating.” Shell eyes me suspiciously.

“I still don’t have any idea why someone would throw a brick at me or slash Maddox’s tires. I didn’t want to bring any unnecessary drama to either of your doors. Besides, I’m enjoying my time with Mad. You’re able to get a raw and uncut version of a person when you live together.”

“I know your parents had something to say because there’s no way they are all of a sudden okay with you living with a man. That’s way too progressive for your Mama and Daddy. No offense,” Shell says, looking at me over the rim of her stylish glasses.