Page 41 of Emani's Way

“None taken. And I have no idea why they’re okay with it. All I know is that’s not a conversation I even want to have with my Mama.” I roll my eyes.

I haven’t even been in the same room with my Mama since I heard her and Darrius’s conversation. I’ve skipped church and brunch for the past month. I’ve only spoken to Amari, and I told her what I overheard. I’m pretty sure she’s pissed off on my behalf.

After Darrius ambushed me at Karaoke, I hadn’t seen or heard from him. I thought he’d finally gotten the message and had given up. Seeing him in the pulpit behind my Daddy was surprising, especially since he was sitting in my Mama’s chair.

Thinking about the Karaoke incident makes me realize that my mother has been behind the scenes pulling strings as usual. I just don’t understand why. I guess she wants Darrius to have that church he talked about. I still don’t know what that has to do with my Mama or why I have to be the first lady.

“Well, as long as you’re comfortable with Maddox, I don’t see the harm. But if you ever change your mind, my door is always open.” Kayla smiles. We lock hands from across the table, and I return her smile.

“Thanks, sweetie.”

“So, Mani is shacking up, and Kay is practically married. My little chicks have left the nest. My work here is done.” Shelby clasps her hands together with a proud smile on her face.

“Girl, please! You’re so full of it,” I laugh and swat at Shelby’s arm.

“What? You know I taught y’all everything about men.” Shell shimmies her shoulders and makes her eyebrows jump.

“Whatever, Shell,” Kay laughs.

We spend the rest of our dinner catching up and gossiping. My time with my besties is so different from my sisters. I find myself wishing that it can be easy and we can get along like when we were kids. But I guess adulthood comes with its own issues. As we start finishing up, I send a quick text to Maddox to let him know he can come and pick me up.

“Oh, I forgot to ask you guys what plans you have in two weeks. I wanted to do a Friendsgiving dinner this year. Because on Thanksgiving, Anderson is taking me to Aspen, so I won’t be here this year.” Kay’s eyes light up with excitement, and I can’t help but mirror her happy expression.

“Well, you know I don’t have anything planned. My parents are off gallivanting around the world, and I’m actually not babysitting any wayward celebrities at the moment.” Shell rolls her eyes.

I chuckle at her. Shelby wanted the promotion at her firm, but she wasn’t prepared to deal with people who had more attitude and mouth than she did. I know one client in particular is giving her hell.

“What about you, Mani?” Kay asks.

“Just let me know the time, and I’ll be there,” I respond happily.

“Great! Bring Maddox along. I’ve heard so much about him from you and Anderson I feel like I know him already.”

“I’ll be happy to bring him. I can’t wait for y’all to get to know him better.”

We sit and chat until I see Maddox walk into the restaurant. The man makes a pair of jeans and a sweater look sinful. He’s got a fresh haircut, but the top was left longer. It looks good on him, and I can’t help but devour him with my eyes.

When he sees us, his blue eyes brighten, and he strides towards us. My heart picks up a steady beat, and the pulse between my legs throbs in time with his steps. It’s like I’m under a spell—a spell I don’t want to break.

“Hey, ladies, y’all look gorgeous.” Maddox’s deep voice gives me chills every time I hear it.

“Heeeey,” both the girls sing, and I can’t help but smirk.

Even Shelby has stars in her eyes at the sound of his voice. My giggle breaks the spell, and Kay blushes.

“Did y’all enjoy the meal?”

“Yes, it was great.” Kay smiles.

“Yeah, it’s good to finally see Emani again. It’s been soooo long.” Shelby emphasizes the word in a singsong voice. “We didn’t know if you would let her out of your love cocoon.”

I can feel my face burn with embarrassment. Shelby says whatever is on her mind, but I didn’t think she would put me on blast like that.

“Shell!” I chastise.

“I have to apologize for keeping Emani all to myself, but I can’t say that I’m sorry. When you find a woman like her, it’s hard not to lock her up and throw away the key,” Maddox says with a naughty gleam in his eyes.

I feel myself blush again at the lustful look he gives me. This man makes me feel like the most desired woman who ever walked this earth.There’s no wonder I haven’t wanted to leave his side.