Page 103 of Taming a Menace

“Business is booming, I see. I’m proud of you, baby.”

“Thank you.”

The way he smiled when I said that made me feel good. I loved Keywan. I wasn’t just saying that because he was fine and good as hell in bed but neither of those things hurt either. I loved to see him coming and hated to see him go. The thought of us moving in together made my head spin. At the same time, I was ready to make the next move.

“I want to talk about what you asked me on the trip when you come over today.”

“You talking about getting married and living happily ever after with our six kids?” he asked.

“No, I’m talking about us moving in together.”

“You think that don’t include getting married and having six kids? What kind of guy do you take me for? I’m not about to shack up with you forever.”

I laughed. Even when he wasn’t trying he made me laugh. Sometimes I didn’t know the difference between him being serious or joking. I wasn’t sure if he knew either.

“Keywan, hush before I change my mind.”

“That’s what I’m hoping for. I’ll settle for a ring, one kid, and a dog.”

“You have a deal,” I said, extending my hand for him to shake.

He stood from his seat and took my hand in his. He held my hand, inspecting it for a moment before letting it go.

“What’s wrong? You think I need a manicure?” I quizzed.

“Can’t a man just admire his woman’s hands?”

“He can.”

“That’s what I thought. Well, I’m not gon’ hold you,” he said, walking behind my desk and kissing my cheek. “Enjoy your lunch.”

“I will. Thank you again, baby.”

“You don’t have to keep thanking me, Iyla. See you later, baby.”

“See you later.”

My phone rang, causing me to open my eyes to search for it. I’d fallen asleep waiting for Keywan to get to my house. He called as soon as I got out of the shower to let me know that he was on the way. Over an hour had passed and I found myself knocked out on the couch.

“Hey,” I answered in my sleep coated voice.

“I’m sorry it took me so long to get here. Come outside.”

“I don’t have on any shoes, Keywan. I’ll open the door for you.”

“You don’t need any shoes on. Just step outside real quick,” he ordered.

“OK,” I grumbled.

I ended the call and tossed my phone back on the couch. Since there was a pair of slippers on the floor, I stuck my feet in them on my way out to see what in the world he could have possibly wanted. My steps slowed to a halt as soon as I steppedoutside. Keywan was standing there next to a car with a big white bow on top. It wasn’t just any car either.

“Key, that’s the car from my favorite movie.”

“I know, mama. Did I get the color right?” he asked with a big grin on his face.

“It’s perfect,” I cooed.

“Just like you. Get in and test drive it.”