Page 4

three

“W here the hell are you going?” Jett asked, catching me off guard as I attempted to slide out of his grasp.

“Oh, I was just getting ready to head home.” When I turned to look in the direction of his alarm clock, his face turned up in displeasure.

“Do you see what fucking time it is right now? There’s no way you thought it was cool to try to slide out of my bed at three in the morning. Lay your ass back down!” My pussy leaked from his aggression.

In my mind, I always assumed that he was the type of man that you could run all over, but he debunked that theory the moment we first started talking. What started as a one-night stand had turned into what looked to be a full-blown situationship. I had no intention of catching feelings for this man, but the more time I spent with him, the more I hated being away. Jett wanted more from the situation, but I didn’t know if I was ready.

My family made settling down seem so easy, but I couldn’t shake the fear in my heart that I’d end up regretting it. Love has never been easy for me, which is the reason I stayed away from it for so long. Jett had a bitch’s nose wide open, and I was terrified.

Seeing his irritated look made me kick my shoes back off and slide back under the covers. The feeling of his arms wrapping around made me shiver. Jett was sweet, but he was also an alpha male. He wouldn’t allow me to do anything for myself, but he also didn’t take any bullshit for me.

In most situations, I was always in charge, so I won’t lie and say that this hasn’t been an adjustment for me. It's a good one, though. I love having a man that could tame me or at least try.

“Tell me what’s on your mind. Huh? It seems like the closer we get, the more you pull away. What’s up with that?” I hated the way it seemed as if he could always read me like a book. Even when I tried to keep my true feelings at bay, he found a way to pull them out of me. The shit scared me more than I could even admit.

“Nothing’s wrong. I just prefer to be in my bed.” The moment the lie rolled off my tongue, I wanted to smack myself. It didn’t even sound right coming out of my mouth, so I knew he didn’t believe me for one second.

“I’m going to give you another chance to come up with a better excuse because there’s no way you think I’m falling for that bullshit.” Turning my head, I took a moment to admire his handsome face.

Jett was not my usual type, as I normally steer clear of the pretty boys, especially the high yellow ones. However, he was nothing like any other man I’ve ever dealt with.

“I-I, this is hard for me. I’m not used to being in someone’s space like this. This is the fourth night that I have spent at your house. I know you have to be growing tired of me by now.” My insecurities were speaking louder than I expected, but I couldn’t hold it in. Staying overnight at a man’s house was something I didn’t do. It went against every rule I set for myself. You’re supposed to get the dick, get your shit and go home.

Jett had me breaking all my rules, and it was so uncomfortable for me. Not because I didn’t like it but because I could feel myself falling into this routine. We’d wake up together, make love, take a shower, and then go to work in our separate cars like a perfect couple. Even though we had no title, neither of us were dealing with anyone else. Jet made it clear he didn’t want to share me with anyone else, and I didn’t want to share him either.

That’s how I knew I was in too deep. He had somehow infiltrated my heart, and now I didn’t know what to do next. We stared at each other for a while until he pulled my face to his. Feeling his soft lips on mine reminded me of the way those same lips had kissed every inch of my body just hours ago.

Jett was a pleaser. He made sure my body was completely depleted of all liquid before he finally got his. I’ve never been with a man like that before. Most men only cared about getting their rocks off, and then they were ready to leave, but not him. Jett took his time with me. He studied the ins and outs of my body so much so that he knew spots that only I’d discovered because of him. In the beginning, I thought that this was just a sex haze. Figuring that after a few romps, I’d get bored, like I’ve done in the past. This was different, though.

Not only was he in tune with my body, but he was also well-versed in my mental state as well. I’d open up to him about my past, including the trauma I experienced as a child. I thought that would scare him off, but it seems to have brought us closer. I’ve been attending this support group at church, and I will admit that it was nothing like I thought it would be. It felt like a real family, and all the women were so supportive; although I hate reliving moments of my past, I’ve noticed a change in my sleeping patterns almost instantly.

For so long, I relied on sleeping pills and alcohol to help me escape the nightmares. Now I can’t remember the last time I had one. It felt good to be free. Sometimes, you think that if you bury something deep enough, it won’t hurt you, but all it does is tear you up on the inside.

“You’re the one making this hard, Ma. I’m not going anywhere, so you might as well accept it for what it is. I’m going to love you so hard you have no other choice but to love me back. Now, we can do this the easy way, or we can do it your way.” He stroked my cheek with the pad of his thumb.

“What happens when you change your mind? When you wake up and decide that you want something better? Someone less damaged.”

I hadn’t even realized I was crying until he swiped a tear away.

“I already told you what it is. We’ve been playing this cat-and-mouse game for months now, and I’m done with it. I want you. Scratch that; I need you. You’re not the only person benefiting from this relationship. You bring me just as much peace as you do stress.” Leaning forward, he placed soft kisses all over my face.

“I can’t believe you said that. I do not stress you out.” I laughed because even I knew that was a lie.

“Shit, you could’ve kept that lie to yourself. I feel like I need to get a gym membership with the way your ass keeps trying to run away from me. You’ve got me out here thinking. I’m ugly or something.” Gripping his chin, I pulled him into a kiss.

“Now, who’s being dramatic? You know you are fine as hell. A little too fine if you ask me, but I’ll let it go for now.” I snickered at his frowned-up face.

“Too fine? I’ve never heard anything like that in my life, baby. Either way, I just want you to know that I’m going to take good care of your heart. I’m not going to let you run away from me because I know we’re supposed to be together.

I’ve always thought you were beautiful. It was your attitude that kept me looking the other way. Now I understand you on a deeper level. You just needed someone who would take the time to pull those layers back. I’m him.”

This is exactly what I mean when I say that he reads me like a book. He always knows just what to say to make me feel cared for and wanted. I never had to worry about him using it against me or making me feel less than. Jett made it clear that it was okay for me to be myself. He never judged me, nor did he try to change me. All he asked of me was that I keep it real and that I trust him. Now, I can admit the latter of those was not always easy for me, but as time has gone by, Jett has shown me the possibilities of real love. Now, I was nowhere near ready to settle down and start a family or anything, but this was nice. My prayer was that he never gave up on me.

“Are you sure I look okay?” I pulled on the hem of my dress as we walked towards his mother’s house. I’d never been introduced to a man’s parents, so my nerves were getting the best of me. Jett insisted his mother would love me, but it still didn’t feel any better.

“You’re fine as fuck, baby.” Lifting my hand in his, he kissed the back of my hand for reassurance. I’d recently discovered how much I loved physical touch since Jett came into my life.

No matter where we were, he always found a way to put his hands on me. I’d grown so used to it, it’s become a craving of mine.

“Relax, ma. I’m telling you, Ma Dukes is mad cool. She’s not the judgment type anyway, so she won’t care about what you have on. Now quit being so damn scary.” The moment he knocked on the door, I thought I would surely pass out.

“Why didn’t you use your key, Jayjay?” A gorgeous, brown-skinned lady asked while stepping back to let us in the house. The resemblance between the two was uncanny, so I knew she had to be his mother.

“You know I don’t like to use it at nighttime. Who knows what you may walk into.” They both stared at one another as if they were communicating with their eyes.

“It was one time, Jayjay. It’s time for you to get over it. Plus, Eddie works nights now, so you have nothing to worry about.” I snickered because it was obvious Jett must have caught his mother in an uncompromising position at some point.

“Yeah, I’ll continue to knock. Anyway, Ma, this is my girlfriend, Serenity. Ren, this is Ma Dukes.” My hand was out for her to shake, but instead, she wrapped her arms around me like the old ladies at the church. I hated long hugs because I swear it broke down my defenses. Her hug felt as if it were coming from someone who’d known me for years.

The perfume she wore carried a floral scent that I really liked. I made a mental note to ask her about it later.

“It’s nice to meet you, beautiful. You can call me Mama Rose. Jett’s been talking about you so much I feel like I know you already. Dinner is ready, so I hope the two of you are hungry. Your brothers are already here with their families.” The aroma filling the house had my stomach growing, so I couldn’t wait to see what she made.

“You already know I’m ready. I even brought my own to-go container, so when it’s time to leave, you won’t have to waste any of your bowls.” Jett grinned while holding up the bag that was in his hands. She laughed as the two of them hugged.

“Some things will never change. Go wash your hands and show Serenity where the washroom is,” she commanded. The devious expression on his face made my pussy thump in response. Jett turned me on without even trying most of the time, but I could also tell when he was up to no good.

“Yes, mama, I’ll take her right to it.” Mama Rose gave him a side eye before swatting him on the arm.

“Don’t get a whopping in front of your lady friend, trying to be mannish.” Jett grinned sheepishly while leading me to the bathroom. The moment we crossed the threshold, Jett’s hands were all over me. Picking me up by my hips, he placed me on the bathroom counter.

“Don’t you even dare! We are in your mother’s house, Jett. What is wrong with you?” I whispered, hoping she wouldn’t expect anything.

“I’m sorry, baby. You just look so fine to me. I couldn’t help myself. You know you got a nigga’s head gone.”

He took possession of my lips, kissing me so deeply I thought I’d pass out. My pussy was leaking, making me thankful I decided to wear panties with this outfit.

“Mmmm, baby, you’ve got to stop. Your mother is going to be looking for us, and you know I don’t know how to be quiet.” I spoke into his lips.

“Damn, right. My baby is a screamer and a squirter.” He lightly bit down on my bottom lip, and I came undone.

“Just put the tip in and make it quick. You’re going to ruin my future mother-in-law’s image of me.” I whined as I reached into his pants to pull out my latest obsession.

“I’m not worried; my brothers and their families are here, so we have about five minutes before she comes beating down the door. I only need two to make that pussy cum.” Jett winked, pushing himself inside of me.

My mouth gaped open as he stroked me feverishly. He knew I couldn’t be quiet, so he leaned forward to kiss me again. Between him poking my G-spot and rubbing circles around my clit, I knew I would be coming in no time.

“Cum on this dick, my baby. I can feel you squeezing my shit. Let it go.” It’s like Jett had some type of mental control over my body because anytime he told me to cum, my body followed right in line.

“Ooh, ooh, yes!” I moaned, still trying my hardest not to alert the entire house of our sexcapades. I already knew it was going to be hard for me to hide the guilt on my face as it was.

“Yeah, that’s what I need. Good girl.” The ladies and I used to talk about praise kinks, and I always swore I wasn’t into it, but being with Jett brought out a different side of me. I wanted to make him proud, and I craved praise from him for the smallest things. He always gave it to me, too.

We cleaned up and then walked into the kitchen to greet everyone. Jett told me about his two brothers, but when I saw them in person, I was stunned. They looked like cut-and-paste copies of each other. Light-skinned, athletic build with curly hair and a strong chiseled jawline. Jett was the oldest child, but his younger brother, Jediah, was the tallest out of them all. Jeremiah possessed a stocky physique and was a tad shorter than Jett.

“It sure took you long enough,” Mama Rose huffed playfully. “Son, introduce the family to my new daughter.” She grinned in my direction.

After all of the introductions, we sat down to eat. Mama Rose prayed over the food before we all dug in. My heart felt at peace as we enjoyed a good meal together. I’ve only done this with my own family, so the experience was pleasant. Jeremiah and his wife had four kids, and for some reason, their two little girls gravitated to me as the night went on. Their youngest was a chubby baby boy named Jeriah. I didn’t make a habit of holding babies, but I could not seem to resist him.

“This looks good on you,” Jett commented, nodding his head at Jeriah laid out on my chest. He’d completely stolen my heart in such a short amount of time. Jeriah was such a sweet baby, and he loved to cuddle.

“I want one,” My lip poked out as Jeriah squirmed in his sleep with his little butt tooted up in the air.

“We can work on one. I’m ready whenever you are.” Jett gazed at me as I pondered his words. The fact that I was even considering it confirmed just how much of an impact he’s had on me. Jett opened my eyes to a future I never dreamed was possible for me. Even though it scared me, it warmed my heart to know he could see a future with me.

“You guys are more than welcome to take him home with you. Just know his little butt doesn’t sleep over four hours, and he’s addicted to the boob.” Jeremiah’s wife, Solei, informed us as she walked into the living room.

“Don’t even let her lie to you. His ass is spoiled for a reason. She holds him morning, afternoon, and night. You’re probably one of the first people he’s let hold him this long because usually if she’s anywhere in the building, he’s trying to find her.” Jeremiah smirked, smacking his wife on the ass.

“Leave me alone. He’s my last baby, so I’m trying to enjoy all of his firsts.” Solei pouted. Jeremiah grabbed her by the waist before planting a kiss on her lips.

“That’s what you said about Jayla when she was born. As long as those tubes aren’t tied and your ass isn’t on birth control, there’s always a possibility.” I loved the banter between them. It reminded me of my sister and cousins. Having a man who loves you unconditionally is such an incredible feeling.

“I want that one day,” Jett stated while the two of us watched the couple sway from side to side. I nodded my head in agreement because I wanted this for myself. Charity constantly talked about how Khalid made her feel so beautiful after giving birth to my nephew, and I could see Jeremiah was the same way with Solei.

After some time had passed, Jett and his brothers ventured outside, leaving the ladies in the house. I usually didn’t like being around people I didn’t know, but Jett’s family had been so welcoming.

“Serenity, Jett tells me you and your family are very close. I’m really glad to hear that because we come from a very tight-knit and loving family. How does your family feel about you and Jett dating?” Her question caused me to swallow the lump in my throat because this was something Jett and I hadn’t been seeing eye to eye on.

“Umm, Jett and I haven’t exactly made our relationship public yet.” Her face remained neutral, but her eyes told a different story.

“So, my son is a secret in your world?” Damn. The judgment lacing her words felt like a punch in the gut. Especially considering how good things have been going so far.

“Umm, it’s not like it sounds. I’ve never been in an actual relationship, so I didn’t feel comfortable letting anyone else in until I knew it was safe. As much as I care about Jett, I know how my family is. They already love him as a part of the family, and I didn’t want to involve them in our business only for it not to work out.” My hands were cupped in my lap as I attempted to calm my nerves.

“I see. What about now? My son hasn’t brought a woman here to meet me since his senior year in high school, which tells me he cares about you a great deal. He loves his nieces and nephews more than anything, and it’s clear he trusts you with them. So where is your head at with all of this?” Mama Rose inquired.

“I don’t know. I guess I’ve been getting in my own head about things. Jett is so patient with me, and I don’t want to lose him. Love is a foreign thing for me, and it’s scary not being in control.”

“Who hurt you? If you don’t mind me asking.”

“Every man that’s ever been in my life.” She nodded her head in understanding.

“I’ve been there. My children’s father was my first everything, and that man dragged me to the end of the earth while we were together. From cheating to the daily beatings I used to endure. By the time I gave birth to Jediah, my trust in people was nonexistent. Jerron’s name held weight in the streets, so no one bothered to try to help when he’d jump on me in the middle of the street. When Eddie came into my life, I ran from him every chance I got. I thought he’d eventually get tired of me and move on to someone else, but he refused to walk away.

He loved me through my pain until I was ready to receive the love he had for me. Jett witnessed a lot of my trauma, so I worried about the kind of effect it would have on him. Some boys see things like that and end up mirroring the behavior. Instead, my boys became the complete opposite of what their father showed them.

Jett has a big heart, but he’s guarded. Him bringing you here tells me you’ve tapped into a part of him he doesn’t share easily. I get good vibes from you, but I will say this to you. Don’t accept his love if you’re not sure it’s what you want. In my heart, I believe you two are exactly what each other needs, but I don’t want to see my son hurt. If you don’t feel comfortable letting your family know about your relationship, that tells me that you may not be ready for everything he has to offer.” Her words penetrated my heart and gave me something to think about.

As afraid as I am of being hurt, I know I don’t want to run the risk of him giving this love to another woman. The idea of it alone caused my chest to tighten. I wanted to know what it felt like to be loved without limits, and God had answered my prayers. The only thing I needed to do was open myself to receive it.

We talked for a while longer, and I felt so at peace. Jett’s family was so loving and welcoming to me. Mama Rose and Solei were down-to-earth and funny, just like the women in my family. I knew if I ever had to spend holidays with them in the future, I’d feel right at home. When the men came back to join us, Jett played with his nieces and nephews while his mother prepared to-go boxes for us to take home. I’d offered to help, but she politely declined. Telling me I’d have a chance to do it at the next family gathering. I didn’t miss the message behind her words, and all I could do was smile.

“You must have a calming spirit because this little baby never sleeps this long when he lies on anyone besides me,” Solei smirked, removing baby Jeriah from my chest. I missed him already, and that’s saying a lot for me. Outside of my nephew Khalil, I wasn’t used to holding babies.

“He’s such a sweetheart.” She placed him in his car seat and then placed a blanket over it. Everyone was preparing to leave for the night.

“Just wait until he gets bigger. Then, you may be singing a different tune. It was really nice meeting you, Serenity. I’m excited to have another woman in the family because these men can be a handful.” Solei snickered. I knew she wasn’t lying because they had already had two random wrestling matches since we got here.

“It was nice to meet you too. I hope I get the chance to spend more time with everyone in the future.”

“Girl, bye. The big, goofy smile on Jett’s face tells me you’re going to be around for a long time, and I’m so ready for it.

Jett gave me your number already, so I’m going to send you mine. We are going to have a girl’s day soon, and no, you don’t have a choice. I’m already claiming you as my new sister, so you’re stuck with me.” I snorted loudly at her expression.

“You are so silly. I got you. I love a good girl’s day, so just let me know when and where.”

“I’m holding you to it. Jeremiah’s always saying I need to get out more, and now that I’m no longer pregnant, I’m taking him up on that. Jayla, Jayda, and Jasper, come to get your coats on!” She shouted to her children.

“It’s so important for a woman to have time for herself, so we can certainly do that. Plus, I’ll need to come to visit this chunky heartthrob.” I referred to baby Jeriah.

“Anytime! Take care of yourself, love. You’ll be hearing from me really soon.” Solei walked over to hug me, so I got up from the couch. Her hug wasn’t one of the usual ones that I was expecting. Much like Mama Rose, it felt as if she could feel my spirit and knew I needed a real hug. Once she pulled back, she gave me a knowing smile.

“You’re going to be just fine.” Solei winked before turning to put her jacket on. The weather had been fairly warm, but with good weather came rain showers. I’d left my coat in the car, so I prayed it didn’t rain until later.

Jett came back into the living room with our food in his hands. Everyone gathered at the door as we all said our goodbyes. Mama Rose hugged and kissed all of her grand babies, and it reminded me of my mother. Since my niece and nephews had entered her life, she’d been on cloud nine. It was so sweet watching her in granny mode because the love she gave them was so pure.

“Okay, baby girl. You remember what I said. The holidays will be here before we know it, and I’m expecting to see your pretty face in this house with us. I know you have your own family, so I’m willing to share them with you; just know I’ll be calling you soon.” I don’t know why hearing that made me so emotional, but I could feel the tears welling in my eyes.

“I’ll be here.” I kept it short so I wouldn’t become too emotional. She gave me another hug, then kissed me on the cheek. We said our goodbyes before Jett escorted me to the car.

The ride home was fairly quiet as he held my hand in his. The silence was peaceful and gave me a chance to really think about my future. I knew what I wanted in my life, and it was time for me to put on my big girl panties so I didn’t miss out on a good thing.

“What’s on your mind, baby?” Jett asked as he sat on the edge of his bed. I’d spent so much time here that it felt like a second home to me. Grabbing me by the waist, he stood me between his legs.

The love he had for me shined through his eyes as he stared at me lovingly.

“I want to be yours.” My heart felt as if it was going to explode as I watched his face for a reaction. When a smirk formed on his handsome mug, I knew he was about to say something sarcastic.

“You’re already mine, ma. I told you that the first time you let me inside of your body. I’ve introduced you to the most important part of me, so you got to know we’re locked in, beautiful. You can run all you want, but I’m not giving you up. I love your pretty ass.” My breathing faltered as my mind attempted to process his declaration. I never imagined those words could sound so sweet coming from a man. However, Jett wasn’t just any man. He’d done what no other man has ever been able to accomplish; he made me believe in love.

“I love you too.” The tears I’d been holding onto all night fell from my eyes. Jett sat me in his lap as I sobbed on his shoulder. He’d become my lover and protector over these last few months, and I was so overwhelmed with happiness. It felt like I could finally let my guard down and just feel. No fear, no reservations, because I truly believed Jett would take care of my heart. Even if we didn’t go the distance, he’d shown me that I have the capacity to love and be loved. That alone was a gift I could never repay him for.

“I love you, baby girl. I promise I’m going to give you everything you’ve ever dreamed of. Love isn’t easy, but it’s not supposed to be painful either. I got you, forever. Do you understand me?” My head nodded as it rested on his shoulders. My arms were wrapped around his neck as he kissed me on the neck. The contact sparked something inside of me, and I needed to be closer to him.

“Make love to me,” I requested, turning in his lap so I was now straddling him. Gazing into his orbs, all I saw was lust and adoration. God, this man was heaven-sent.

“I’ll give you whatever you need, baby. Now come ride this dick.” Pecking my lips, he lifted me up so we could get undressed. For the remainder of the night, he gave my body everything it needed while declaring his love for me. I never knew it was physically possible to have as many orgasms as I did tonight, but Jett drained me dry. My voice was going to be hoarse in the morning from the way I screamed his name.

After he cleaned us both off, I lay there wrapped in his arms. There was no place I’d rather be in this moment.

“Pussy so good, I almost gave you a baby. I pray your birth control holds up because my pull-out game has never been this terrible.” I snickered because he rarely ever pulled out, even when he said he would. Outside of one high school fling, I’ve never had unprotected sex with any other man.

“What if I want one? Your family makes really pretty babies, after all.” I wasn’t ready to be a mother just yet, but it was something I could see in our future.

“I’ll give you all the babies you can handle, but first, I’m going to change your name.” My cheeks hurt as I smiled so hard.

“You want to marry me?” My body turned in his arms so we were face to face.

“It’s either you or it’s nobody. I have plans for us, baby girl. I’m not playing with you.” His lips crashed against mine, causing me to moan. Every time Jett touched me, it ignited a fire inside of me. Just knowing he saw a future for us did something to me. I prayed we’d always been like this. For now, I was determined to do my part in making sure we had a happy and lasting relationship. I deserved this, and I wasn’t selling myself short anymore.