Page 23 of Kove and Xiah

Me: What makes you say that?

Kove: You’re on a date and answering texts. That nigga ain’t serving his purpose.

I smiled incredibly wide.

Me: I’m not on a date.

Kove: Then come have a drink with me.

Me: No, I’m with someone.

Kove: Fuck that nigga. He can’t hold your attention. Tell him it’s a business emergency.

Me: I don’t have a boyfriend.

More like a rogue husband…

Kove: I didn’t ask you that and I wouldn’t give a fuck if you did.

Me: You didn’t ask but you’ve insinuated enough, wanting me to provide clarity.

Kove: Only so I know if I need to have my head on right when I’m with you. Not because I care. Come have a drink with me.

Me: I told you I’m with someone.

Kove: Bring them and I’ll find them something to do while we chill. I need your help with something.

Me: What?

Kove: It requires a conversation. Meet me at the bar in ten minutes.

Me: I’m…

I started typing, but before I could finish, he sent a follow up.

Kove: You said you go above and beyond for your clients. I’m testing that theory. Ten minutes or that negative review is coming.

I smiled and rolled my eyes. He wouldn’t leave a negative review but I was curious so I crossed the rooftop, stopped a few feet from Koa, and waved her over. She flashed a smile to the man she was in conversation with and made her way to me.

“You ready? We can go…”

“No, you’re not ready to leave.”

“Xi, you know how we do. If you’re ready, I’m ready.” I noticed she cut her eyes back to him and I shook my head.

“Nope, go do your thing. I’m going to the lobby. A client is here and asked if I’d come have a drink.”

“Absolutely not. You’re not working. This was supposed to be fun.”

“It’s not necessarily work. We’re kinda friends. I’m fine, go.” I gently nudged her and she turned to me.

“Are you sure?”

“Yes, very sure. Go.”

“Okay but don’t leave.”

“I won’t, you don’t either.”