C H A P T E R
F O R T Y - O N E

          Walking around the studio dressed in her robe, Alisha carried one of the twins in her arms while making her way over towards the camera guy. Today was the day of her photoshoot for her summer collection she was about to drop soon and she was more than excited to see how everything turned out in the end.

She was finally able to get back to doing what she truly loved and she couldn't have been happier. She had so many things launching this summer for women and was starting to branch out and do men clothes as well.

A lot of people thought she was crazy for jumping right back into work after four months of giving birth, but fashion is what kept her sane and what helped keep her at peace. Raising four kids now was no joke for both Shaun and Alisha and they used their hobbies as a release.

They now had two toddlers in the house and two newborns, and at this point Alisha wasn't even sure how her and Shaun was even handling it all, but they managed to tackle it all and although they were often tired and sometimes even restless they wouldn't change a thing about their lives.

When they decided to take in Skylar it was a big adjustment to make, but as time passed things were starting to fall into place. Alisha's and Shaun's hearts were too big to let that child go into the system, despite how she got here Shaun knew he wouldn't be able to fully live and enjoy life knowing he had a child out there somewhere.

And he didn't want his child growing up wondering and asking why her parents didn't want her like he did with his mom, so he pushed his feelings to the side and welcomed her in with welcome arms. But he knew the moment he let her move in that he needed to finally seek help and open up about his emotions towards everything so he wouldn't grow to resent the child later in life.

Handing one of her daughters off to her traveling nanny, she took a seat and got comfortable as the man got his camera and computer ready to show her the shots. "Alright Jeff, what we working with so far?"

"They all came out really beautiful, the outside scenes so far are honestly my favorite." He boosted causing her to smile. "But I already transferred the shots to my laptop and added the edits and effects you wanted for the website, tell me whatchu think though."

Turning his laptop so she could see, she leaned in closer and smiled truly satisfied with the way they turned out.

"I love it, it actually looks exactly how I pictured it in my head. Nothing too much or over the top just simple and cute, but still catches the eye." She commented as she stood from the chair.

"I'm glad you like it, but I'll keep playing around with it though and start setting up the other sets for the other shoots while you change and get ready. You said you wanted a pinkish bright theme right?"

"Yessir, just work your magic. You ain't new to this shit, you know exactly how to do things so I'm leaving it in your hands." Giving him a hug, she pulled away and started walking back towards her dressing room.

Opening the door to her dressing room she saw Shaun laid out on the couch watching the game that was playing on the tv with Eva laid sound asleep on his chest while Nolan was on the floor coloring with Skylar.

Walking over to the nanny who was holding Ava she took her from her arms and told her she could go to lunch to give her a break.

Her hair stylist and make-up artist both stood waiting for her as she walked towards the chair and took her seat being sure to support Ava's small body in her arms.. "I really appreciate you guys. Today has been a day with my kids running around and me having to stop and change diapers, breast feed and all that other shit that comes with being a mom and I really appreciate you guys for being patient and the hair and make-up looked so bomb in the first shoot and I can't wait to see how this look turns out."

"Oh girl you're fine, we understand trust." Tae her hairstylist stated and Crystal her make-up artist nodded as well agreeing.

They weren't mad at all at Alisha for simply handling her business, even though she was working she was still making time to cater to what mattered the most which was her kids and they loved and adored her simply for that.

"I have a kid as well so trust and believe me that I know its never easy to be a full time mom and work at the sametime but you're handling it well and pops over there is doing the damn thing too." She pointed out and Alisha smiled as she glanced over at Shaun who was half sleep now.

She appreciate him so much, he motivated her to do all of this and he was there every step of the way to help her vision come to life. He even sometimes stayed up later with her as she sketched up ideas and listened to pitch and throw out all the things she had in mind.

She knew he didn't do much far as making the dresses and all that stuff but she had to give him credit for being there and pushing her even when she felt like giving up.

"Thank you guys, really."

As they started on both her hair and make-up Alisha took that time to breast feed Ava since she knew eventually both her and Eva were gonna be put down for their naps soon.

"Okay, so since you wanted more of a natural look this isn't gonna take long."

"Great, but I am curious to know what got you into doing make-up in the first place? I don't mean to be nosey, but I love hearing people's come up stories." Alisha questioned.

"Well I've always been into drag and loved the different things those men would do with make-up so I would watch tutorials of different make-up artists learning their techniques then creating my own and it just eventually stuck with me. I first started off doing all my friends make-up for any special occasions then eventually more people would ask to book me and once I had my son, this is what was paying my bills and keeping a roof over our heads so I stuck with it." She explained and Alisha nodded.

"Well you're really talented, I'm impressed and will be booking you again."

Smiling, Crystal looked over at Tae with a grateful look. "I'm not even gonna lie though, when Tae told me how you were looking for a make-up artist and considered me to apply I lowkey felt like I wasn't good enough."

Closing her eyes when she started applying eyeshadow, Alisha frowned. "I don't know why you thought that, you're a beast. Own that shit girl, if you don't mind but I know a lot of people and they often need make-up artists for fashion shows and I feel you would be great. Plus it'll be easy money." Alisha shrugged.

"Wow thank you, I would love that."

"You're welcome, so what are you guys plans after this? Usually after shoots I like to treat the crew to lunch or dinner depending on when we finish."

Tae her hairstylist smacked his teeth, "You know my fat ass ain't doing nothing, so I'll be there."

Sighing, Crystal looked at Alisha with a sympathetic look. "I actually have two more clients after this then a date tonight so I'm gonna have to take a raincheck. Sorry."

"A date!?" Both Tae and Alisha questioned followed by laughter.

Shaking his head, Tae waved his hands at her. "No'mam, you been my bestfriend damn near all my life and not once have you mentioned anything about a guy or a date." Tae frowned lowkey salty. "Who is he?"

"Well that's because it's still new and we're just friends at this point. Nothing major is going on, we just talk everyday either on the phone or texting and you know my cousin grand-opening for her poetry club is today so I invited him. That's it." She stated.

"Well tell us about the guy, what is he like? How long y'all been talking? You don't have to say a name cause that usually jinx's shit but give us something." Alisha urged being nosey.

"Well he's really funny, fine as hell, caring, and he is a father so we both have kids of our own which is one thing I kinda liked in a way." She shrugged. "But um he's from Houston, does tattoos for a living and yeah that's basically it. He told me he didn't want to tell me much over the phone and said we would talk more tonight once we see each other face to face again, so that's just an outline of who he is right now and we been talking for about three months going on four."

Crystal didn't want to mention that Ahmad was married for the simple fact of not wanting to be judged. She knew how it would have looked and although there wasn't anything going on between them on that level just yet, she still didn't feel comfortable airing that out.

She respected Ahmad for one simple reason, one being the fact that he told her straight up that he was married but was separated from his wife at the moment which kinda let her know exactly what she was getting into. He wasn't one of those guys who was still in marriages and trying to bed and play with women on the side. She respected how he told her what exactly he was looking for and what he wasn't ready for so no confusion could come from their situation and she liked that.

Plus since she knew all of this about him, she wasn't going to allow herself to fall for him or do anything with him beyond just going out and hanging out until that divorce was final.

"Well have fun and just be careful okay? I'm actually surprised your ass even giving this man the time of day, you usually blow these niggas off every chance you get." Tae joked as he continued doing Alisha's hair.

"Well as a matter of fact, I approached him. He didn't approach me, I saw him, I was attracted to him and I got his number simple." She shrugged.

Perking his lips, he looked down at Alisha who was making the same face before they nodded in approval. "Okay, fat pussy energy! It's the year of the woman, we taking all the shots. We might brick a couple of times but Aaliyah told us to just dust ourselves off and try his friend or whatever she said." Tae joked as he slapped hands with both Alisha and Crystal.

"Ion know why you over there high fiving muthafucka's Alisha, take a shot if you want to, gon' mess around and get a nigga really shot." Shaun scoffed which only made them laugh harder.

After an hour or so passed Alisha's face was beat to the gods and her hair was slayed to the heaven's. Thanking them both, she stood to her feet and was about to start getting dressed but Shaun stopped her and politely asked everyone to leave and for the nanny to take the kids with her for a minute.

Growing confused when he shut and locked the door behind the last person who stepped out, she half smiled and laughed at him. "What are you doing Shaun? I have to get dressed."

"I'm finna help you get ready for your shoot, what it look like?"

Smiling, she looked down at herself not really wanting him to see her naked. She wasn't pleased with her body due to the scars she still had from the c-section and her extra stomach fat that was still there. She didn't want him to see her like this.

"You don't have to Shaun, I got it." She tried to reason but he ignored her and grabbed her first piece she was going to be putting on.

"Strip girl, we on a tight schedule. Chop chop sister." He joked as he waited for her to drop her robe.

Feeling tears swell up in her eyes, she blinked and caused the tears to slowly fall. "Please Shaun.. I—"

"Please what? I know you don't want me to see you naked and I get that. But I'm not understanding why? I been peeped it, but at first I thought I was just tripping. I noticed how we never shower together anymore, you either shower before I get home or after I'm sleep and you don't sleep naked either like you used too. I didn't want to to say anything at first and be wrong but now I see. You're still beautiful to me Alisha and I've never made you feel like you weren't, I've always embraced the weight gain and your other bodily changes and I loved you the same the whole time." He expressed trying to get her to understand that he did not care about the changes her body has made.

Shaking her head, she looked down. "You don't understand, you'll never understand the emotions I deal with on a daily basis and how I have to basically accept the fact that my body will never be the same." She sniffled. "You don't have to wake up every morning and look in the mirror and see all the things that has changed on your body that will basically stay there forever and feel so unpretty. It's hard."

"I know I'll never be able to fully understand you as a woman, or understand how much you guys bodies change during pregnancies but I know one thing that has never changed and that's my love for you. It is my job as your man to help you still feel beautiful even on your worst days. Not a day goes by where I don't think about how beautiful you are to me Alisha. I love you baby, I love everything about you and I know you don't see the beauty in you right now but one day you will and I'm going to help you." He stated sternly but his voice was filled with love.

Stepping towards her he grabbed her hands and pulled her towards him. "Hiding yourself from me isn't the way baby and you know that," Using his fingers to untie her robe, he slowly opened it and just stared at her for a good minute.

He could see how uncomfortable she felt all over her face and he hated that she was feeling this way. Sliding the robe completely off her body Alisha's hand immediately went to her stomach to cover it but he stopped her by grabbing her hands.

Walking her over to the full body mirror he made her stare at herself as he stood behind her. "Do you see what I see?"

Feeling her body trembling, he placed his hands on her shoulders. "Relax mamas, the only way we can address and fix this issue is to face it and accept it. So tell me what do you see?"

Sniffling, she shrugged. "I see a woman, a woman with three beautiful kids who has been through a lot. A woman who has lost herself I guess, I just feel like me being a mom has taken away my spunk as a person. I know I'm not the same person I was when we met and sometimes I feel that will drive you away and I'm scared."

Wrapping his arms securely around her, she leaned back into him and closed her eyes for a moment. "Nothing can stop me from loving you, I love you for you and everything you have to offer me. When I asked you to be my wife I meant that, I want to spend forever with you and love you for the rest of my life Lisha. I'm content and happy with you and I wouldn't want you any other way than the way you are now."

Letting his words sink into her mind, they stood there in the mirror together for a minute as she relaxed against him. Feeling him start to place kisses on her shoulder blade, she tilted her head some so he could have full access to her neck. Sucking and kissing different areas of her neck he used one hand to grip her pudge then used the other to slide inbetween her legs.

Opening her eyes the moment he touched her slit, she stared at themselves through the mirror and watched as he fingered her while using his free hand to carress her body and lips to kiss every inch of her skin.

They haven't had sex or rarely even touched each other these past few months due to her feeling so insecure about herself, but she felt so beautiful at this moment and with the way Shaun was touching her and making her feel she never wanted the feeling to the stop.

As he slid his fingers in and out of her he used his thumb to massage her clit which was sending her over causing moans to escape her mouth and tears to flow down her face from how good it felt.

When he felt her body start to shake he knew she was about to reach her climax and stopped wanting to finish her off another way.

Turning her body fully around so she was now facing him with her back towards the mirror, he leaned his head down to meet her lips half way as they both endulged into a lustful and meaningful kiss.

Directing her hands to wrap around his neck, he then snaked his arms around her and caressed her body all over being sure to grip and squeeze her ass before lifting her up and carrying her over to the counter that she had in the room.

Not once breaking the kiss she dropped her arms and started undoing the belt on his jeans and unbuttoning his pants before helping him slide them off along with his boxers and removed his shirt so they where now both naked.

Pulling her closer to the edge of the counter he lifted her legs placing them on his shoulders, then positioned himself at her entrance before slowly sliding in causing them both to moan since it had been a good minute.

Biting her lip to surpress the moan that wanted to escape, Shaun continuously slid in and out of her, stroking her slowly wanting her to feel all of him.

He knew she was on a tight schedule for the shoot, but he had a mission to fulfill and that was to make love to her body and have her feeling good from the inside out and he didn't care how long they had to wait.

Walking around the mall with Shanice, Ahmad held mutltiple bags in his hands whilst Shanice was still having trouble on picking something to wear for tonight. "This shit ain't fair, every store we walked into your ass has found something while as for me, I can't even find a simple top or anything," She scoffed.

"That's cause you overthinking every little thing you actually find cute, a lot of the shit you tried on looked good but you went against my judgement sooo I don't know what to tell you. We gon' hit one more store before I say fuck this and you end up just picking something out ya closet." He stated as they approached another clothing store.

Rolling her eyes, she shoved him out the way and walked passed him causing him to laugh. Following her towards the women section of the store, he began looking through the racks to see if he saw anything with potential while she looked as well.

Finding a top and bottom he found cute, he picked it up and showed her. "This that off the shoulder long-sleeve crop top shit and I think it would look good with these flare pants, they hug the booty then flare at the bottom." He stated and she frowned.

"Um I'm guessing this isn't your first rodeo on shopping for women clothes?" She asked as she grabbed the items from him.

"Nope, I used to always either take Cali shopping or buy her shit so I mean it comes naturally, but go try that on."

Walking towards the dressing room, Ahmad took a seat while she asked the lady for a key.

While waiting he picked up his phone to see Crystal had texted him back.

From Crystal✨ :
Just finished my second client, headed to my last one. Wyd?
- 3:49 pm

To Crystal✨ :
Out shopping with Shanice we buying outfits for both our dates tonight, but her ass taking forever.
- 3:50 pm

From Crystal✨ :
It takes us ladies forever to acually find a legit outfit that we like, cause majority of the time we either feel fat, or it doesn't compliment certain assets on our body so we change and choose multiple things. Give my girl some slack, she tryna impress her future boo tonight.
- 3:55 pm

To Crystal✨ :
Man whatever, I told her this the last store or we leaving and she just gotta take that L and  pick an outfit out her damn closet. Every store we don' been to I found me an outfit.
- 3:57 pm

From Crystal✨ :
Oop, look at you tryna get all cute for lil olé me ☺️ I feel lowkey special now lol I guess I gotta make sure I step out in my best outfit tonight too then huh?
- 3:59 pm

To Crystal✨ :
I guess you special or whatever, and yeah you should. Hanging out with Ahmad is a one in a lifetime chance and you just so happened to get lucky 😂😂
- 4:03 pm

From Crystal✨ :
LMFAOOO you funny, but okay I got you big head. I'll make sure I look my VERY worst since they always if you can't love a bitch on her worst days how you gon' be able to love and deserve her on her best.
- 4:07 pm

Laughing Ahmad, looked up to see what was taking Shanice so long but then looked back down at his phone.

To Crystal✨ :
You not ugly, so I'm sure with whatever you put on you gon' look good so I ain't even worried.
- 4:10 pm

At the sound of Shanice's voice, Ahmad looked up and nodded impressed with his outfit choice. "Ya boy got taste, whatchu think about it?"

"It's cute, but I'm lowkey upset that you found it on your first attempt." Turning a little, she looked at her butt in the mirror. "And it makes my little booty pop, might trick Dave into thinking he fuckin' with a thick bitch, but then boom turn around issa skeleton."

Laughing, Ahmad stood up from his seat grabbing his bags in the process. "You a fool, but hurry up and change so we can go. I'm hungry."

Quickly changing out of the outfit, she walked to the counter with him and laid her items on it. Pulling out his card Ahmad watched as the lady took off the sensors and hangers and began scanning and bagging the clothes.

"Your total is going to be $34.87."

When Shanice went to reach into her purse Ahmad stopped her and handed the lady his card causing Shanice to frown. Once the transaction went through, Ahmad grabbed her bag of clothes and handed em to her as they started walking out.

"Why didn't you let me pay for my own clothes?"

Not even looking in her direction, he shrugged. "Because I wanted too, whatchu want to eat? I'm craving mexican food."

"I'm cool with that."

"Ion like the mexican place here, let's go to another one and so we can put these clothes in my car and not have to carry them around."

When they made it to the car, Shanice handed the bags to him while he loaded em up in the trunk. Getting inside the car, Ahmad made sure to text Crystal back before starting the car and pulling out.

"Are you nervous for your date tonight?" Shanice randomly asked as they drove down 59.

Shrugging, he pulled at his beard. "Kinda, I mean before Cali I really didn't go on dates due to my fear of falling and getting hurt again .. but I realized how my actions before was stupid. I let someone have so much control over my actions and emotions and probably missed out on some great relationships and good times and I guess I don't want to do that this time and just enjoy life despite the circumstances."

"I get that, well Crystal seems nice and I just really hope you enjoy yourself at the end of the day. I like seeing you like this."

Looking over at her, he laughed and frowned. "Like what?"

"Happy."

          A few hours later Ahmad found himself sitting outside of Crystal's house waiting for her to make her way out so they could leave. They both decided to ride with him to the place then later go back to his place to chill.

When he looked up and saw her front door open his hands instantly got sweaty and when she came into view he had to mentally applaud her for how good she looked. She wore a tight black dress that was tied up on the sides and hugged her body in all the right places.

Getting out of the car and going towards the passenger side, he held open the door for her just when she reached his car. "Thank you, lookin' good by the way." She greeted as she eyed him up and down before getting in the car.

"I could say the same about you, I see you really tried to step out for a nigga." He smirked.

Looking at herself, she shrugged. "I did a little something something."

Staring at her one last time, he just shook his head before shutting her door and walking back over to his side. Getting in, he put on his seat belt then passed her his phone so she could type in the address on the GPS.

During the ride to the place Ahmad and Crystal talked and joked around majority of the time making the drive seem a lot faster than what it really was. The more they talked and laughed, the less nervous the both of them got.

It had been a minute since Crystal last went out with a guy and she was hoping things went well tonight for her and Ahmad.

When they got to the place he parked his truck then got out to hold her door open for her. Grabbing a hold of her hand, he helped her step down then shut the door behind her before they started walking towards the entrance of the bar.

It was mainly couples walking alongside them dressed up so neither of them felt over dressed or felt as if they stood out.

And as Crystal stared at the place she was highly impressed by the amount of people coming out and supporting her cousin's grand opening, and from the looks of it everything looked so good and she couldn't wait to see what the inside looked like.

Entering the building holding hands, Crystal held her phone out as she read over the text from her cousin sent telling her what table and section they would be in. "So she said she reserved a table for us on the second floor and our table is named Brooks, last name of the famous black poet Mrs. Gwendolyn Brooks." She smiled liking that idea her cousin chose.

Making their way up the stairs along with the other people who had reserved tables, Ahmad spotted theirs and lead the way being sure to pull out her chair for her before taking his seat.

"This shit nice as hell." He complimented as he looked around taking in the scenary.

The place was big, it was actually bigger than it appeared from the outside and he liked how low lit the place was and how soulful it looked. It had pictures and paintings of music notes, old jazz musicians, and famous black poets all around the building. The vibe of the place just felt right and he could see himself coming back here.

"It is nice, my cousin did her thing." She stated back just when their waiter came walking towards their table.

"Hello, my name is Dre and I'll be the one who will be serving you two tonight. But before I start taking orders, I would like to explain how things work around here and introduce to you what all this place had to offer. Here at the Flo Bar and Diner, we are here to serve you with talent, food and fun. Throughout the night, different poets of all races and artists will come up and perform and during passing period you guys are welcomed to dance downstairs on the dancefloor area to our live band and Dj. When leaving the table to notify us that you haven't left, simply have this old green coke bottle sitting in the center or place the red one to notify us that you have left." He explained the best way he could to get them to understand.

Once they both nodded their heads letting them know they got what he was saying, he smiled. "Alright, so to start off the night right, the first two drinks of the night are free. Any refill after that will cost ya," Handing them drink menu's, he let them look over it before continuing.

"We have a few special select drinks and they are all named after black poets as well, the ingredients of the drinks are listed right below the name and of course we have out regular drinks and then you are allowed to make special requests of a certain drink as well if we have it." He further explain.

"Sounds like a plan," Ahmad stated as he looked over the menu.

"Great, so if you guys need a little bit more time to think about what you want, I can come back." He offered but both Crystal and Ahmad shook their heads no.

"We're ready."

"Okay so what can I start you two off with to drink?"

"I'll take a Rum with coke light on the ice please." Crystal ordered closing her drink menu and handing it to him.

"And for you sir?"

"Y'all got some Polar Bear or Ciroc?"

Nodding his head, Ahmad smirked. "Bet, I'll take some of that with cranberry or cranberry-apple juice."

"Alright, I'll put those in. Did you guys want to start off with an appetizer or some rolls?" He asked handing them food menu's.

Looking over to Crystal, Ahmad asked with his eyes if she wanted anything in which she declined. "Nah, I think we're good."

Politely thanking them and going on his way, Crystal turned her focus to Ahmad and smiled causing him to do the same. "This is turning out better than I expected." She stated and he nodded.

"Yeah, she really got it going on for this to be her grand-opening. I'm sure this took a minute to put together, but hell it was worth it cause this place nice as hell and the vibe is right."

"I agree, growing up shit wasn't always easy for neither of us. Both our families struggled and to see this girl come from where she came from and do all of this is a major accomplishment and I'm beyond proud of her." She smiled as she continued to admire the place in true bliss.

"Do you know what inspired her to open this place?"

"As kids and teens, she's always had an obsession with poetry. The woman could write her ass off and often even made you cry with some of her work. So when she told me about this place, I wasn't even shocked, this is literally who she is as a person and I'm just glad to see everything fall into place for her." She replied.

Nodding his head, Ahmad liked her cousin story. It was a lot similar to his, he had it rough growing up watching his parents struggle to take care of three kids and that pushed him and gave him fuel to be somebody and he wasn't gonna stop until he was.

"I respect that forreal, but how was your day? I see it got pretty busy since you ain't even text a nigga back earlier." He questioned as he leaned back in his seat.

"I know and I'm sorry, but yeah I just got extremely busy. My last client last minute wanted me to do both her friends make-up and it lowkey erked me since she could have easily said something before I got there since I wasn't really prepared. But I did my best and did what I could do plus it was extra money for me." She shrugged.

"Yeah true, but I would've checked her ass though. Like yeah this is what you do for a living, but what if you had something else to do after her and she ain't even care. I got a few clients who like to pull last minute stunts similar to that and it annoys me." He expressed and she nodded aggreeing.

"Yeah indeed it did annoy me, and I spoke with her privately about it and expressed how I felt and she seemed to have understood my frustration and even apologized and left a tip."

"That's good."

"Yeah, so how was your day?"

He shrugged, "It was cool, ran a few errands, did some shopping then went to check on my shop and the progress of the new shop."

Smiling, she leaned forward a little bit. "Have you told your boys about the new shop yet?"

Shaking his head no, he smirked. "Nope, tryna surprise them but I think they nosey asses peep something is going on though since I been leaving early a lot or calling in."

"I'm sure they're gonna love it though, but so are you going to keep the first shop or close it down?" She asked.

"I'm keeping both, the plan was to always have at least two shops here in Houston. I'ma first you know surprise them with the shop and ask which one of them would like manage that building under me since I trust them and have them help me hire the artists in that shop." He explained.

Coming back with their drinks, they both thanked their server before he went on his way and went back to talking.

The conversation just continued to flow between the two as the night went on. They continued to laugh and talk like they have been all day and was liking the way the date was going so far.

When the lights turned to shade of an orangish-yellow color, Ahmad and Crystal along with everybody else started to look around and saw that someone was coming up to the stage.

Seeing a spotlight shine right on the person, Crystal smiled when she saw it was her cousin.

Checking the mic before speaking, her cousin took one last look around the building in pure amazement at all the people who had came out. "I first just want to say wow and thank you to everybody who came out tonight. My team and I worked so hard to put all of this together and to see it come to life brings tears to my eyes. You all look so beautiful and I'm hoping you guys are really enjoying yourselves and continue to do so as the night goes on."

Earning a few claps from people, she smiled before continuing. "So tonight we do have a few people who are going to come up here and share with us their talents and stories through poetry and art. And for the people who don't quit know who I am, to be able to get a glimpse of me as a person I will start off by telling one of my favorite poems I have ever written."

Dimming the lights a little lower, the beat to Any Time, Any Place by Janet Jackson began to play as a painter walked up on the stage and sat behind her as she got ready to perform.

"If a stranger were to see me smile,
They wouldn't know the secrets this smile holds,
Or even the secrets this smile has told.
When in the eye of the world, I smile, proud and bold
Yet when I'm on my own, this fire filled smile turns ice cold."

She spoke slow and on beat, and within' her voice held passion, pain and love. You could see with the way she moved her hands as she spoke that each word that left her mouth meant something and as she talked Ahmad couldn't take his eyes off her along with everybody else. Her whole aura was captivating and the softness of her voice made you feel at peace.

"If a stranger were to see me smile,
They wouldn't know that deep down in my soul is full of pain,
But somehow I still manage to smile through the toughest storms and rain.
But only God knows, how such hurt is vain.

If a stranger were to see me smile,
They wouldn't know that my world was crumbling,
Picture this as football, I'd forever be fumbling
In this full field game of life, that I can't seem to catch or hold,
I'm left to feel empty, and often like a fragile piece of paper..I fold
I also long to be hold, but there's more
Where that came from,
And so much more to be told..

But I know I must remain,
The victor, the survivor and the over achiever.
I am a conqueror, and a believer
And I will see this through.
Though the smile on my face, may hide the hurt
but also beneath this smile, is a woman
who has been strong since birth
And I will break this horrible curse of pain
A word that's too familiar..
So if a stranger were to see me smile,
maybe they would see something very similar.

When she finished the place erupted with snaps and whistles and she smiled proud. Turning his picture around the painter had painted a woman looking into the eyes of another person showing the same reflection of pain and love within' their eyes.

Ahmad liked the poem and could relate to it in many ways, he felt like the poem was made for him especially. He had endured so much in life and always tried to smile the pain away even though his eyes always told a different story.

The snaps and cheers didn't die down until she stepped off stage after thanking everybody and music began to play which meant people where allowed to hit the dance floor. The lights had changed again and couples rushed to the floor.

Crystal and Ahmad watched as the couples began getting up one by one to dance, before Ahmad stood to his feet and reached his hand out: "You wanna dance?"

Smiling, she nodded and stood to her feet taking a hold of his hand being sure to place that green bottle in the center before they headed down the stairs.

The song Would You Mind by Janet Jackson was the song that was playing which really set the mood for a few people. Couples stood on the floor basically grinding into each other damn near fucking but with clothes on.

Pulling Crystal into him she wrapped her arms around his neck then laid her head on his shoulder as he wrapped his arms securely around her waist right above her butt and rested his face in the crook of her neck.

When the song started to get more sexual, Crystal dropped her arms and turned herself around and began dancing up against Ahmad with her back up against his front as his arms lazily rested on the front of her thighs as he matched her moves.

Biting her lip seductively, she pressed her backside into him more and continued to dance up against him as she rubbed one of her hands down her body. Soon feeling his hard on press up against her butt the longer she danced, she smirked and made sure to keep grinding up against him right in that spot.

As she rocked her hips to the beat, she looked back a little as they locked eyes for moment causing each other to smile before she turned around to where they faced each other and began grinding like the other couples.

When the song changed to Deep by Summer Walker, both Crystal and Ahmad rocked to the beat together and since she knew the words she sung along in his face earning a blush from him.

This song by Summer always made Crystal feel sexy so when she stepped away from Ahmad and began dancing with herself, Ahmad watched as she rolled her hips and touched her body with her hands and biting her lip.

The longer they danced the more they felt like the only two in the room together. Multiple songs played and the two stayed glued to the dance floor enjoying the feeling of being within' each others embrace.

The song eventually changed to Sweet Lady by Tyrese and Ahmad had to put on a show since this was one of his favorite songs. As he pulled Crystal towards him, he held one of her hands and they danced while he sung the song to her causing her to laugh at his horrible voice, but she found his attempt to sing cute and the way he was into it made her smile and laugh more.

The final song that played was At Your Best by Aaliyah and Ahmad and Crystal danced together like this was their high school prom rocking side to side to the beat.

Looking up at Ahmad, one of Crystal hands rested on his cheek as she played and pulled at his beard. Getting lost in each other's eyes and into the song, Ahmad pulled her a little closer then leaned his head down to place a kiss on her lips.

Moving both her hands around his neck she kissed back harder and rougher as they stood in the center of the dance floor making out and feeling as if it was just the two of them in the room.

After another two hours or so passed they decided to head out. The drive home was quiet but comfortable and they held hands the entire time.

When they arrived to her place, Ahmad parked then got out opening her door for her before walking her up to her door. Fetching for her keys in her purse, she finally found them then turned to smile at Ahmad.

"Thank you for tonight, I really enjoyed myself and could see us going out again." She stated and he nodded.

"I enjoyed myself too and it was really good seeing you again as well."

When things got quiet between the two, Ahmad sighed before stuffing his hands inside his pockets. "Well shit, I'll get out of your hair and text or call you when I make it home."

Going in for a hug, they hugged for a good minute really not wanting to let go but eventually did, but once they locked eyes Ahmad found himself leaning in closer as so did she until their lips touched.

Moving their mouths insync, Ahmad pressed her up against her front door as they made out enjoying every bit of this. Reaching his hands down to her butt he gave it a good squeeze causing her to laugh into the kiss.

Finally pulling away, Crystal wiped her mouth then his to get rid of the lip gloss he had on his lips before turning and unlocking her door.

Behind her Ahmad was having a mental battle within' himself, telling himself to go home but he wanted to stay and when she turned and grabbed him by the hand leading him into the house, all rational thoughts left his mind and body.

          Leaving out of the movie theater, Shanice and Dave held hands as they walked to his car. "Well that was a waste of money." He joked and she nodded agreeing followed by a laugh.

"I know, we spent more time kissing and shit rather than actually paying the movie any mind. But I had fun and enjoyed every moment of it so hey it wasn't that much of a waste." She shrugged.

"True that."

Getting inside his car, Dave let his seat back and turned on the AC to get comfortable as Shanice did the same. "I needed this outting." Dave blurted out. "Like I just been working, taking care of Blessing and staying home. I never really went out anymore unless my boys asked me out and it feels good to be out again and living."

Shanice understood what he meant since she was like that at first too, "We all need outlets in life or we'll drive ourselves insane, I used to just stay cooped up in my brother's apartment. Never wanted to go out since I just never felt like it, and as I look back I regret it because I missed out on life and moments that I will never get back."

"Yeah that is true, but on a serious note I just wanna say I'm glad to have met you and I gotta give props to Ahmad cause I knew when he asked me to hang out with you guys I had a feeling he was tryna play match-maker, but it was worth it. We only been talking for a few months but shit it feels like I've known you my whole damn life and the way we click is just refreshing." He expressed causing her to smile to herself as she looked down and played with her fingers.

"I'm glad to have met you as well."

Glancing over at her, he shook his head. "You beautiful as hell man, like I know I've probably said this shit a thousand times today but I just really want you to know how beautiful you really is."

"Thank you, but you ain't gotta gas me dude. I mean have you looked at yourself? All I'ma say is that the lord truly took his time with you." She complimented.

Smirking, he looked at himself in the mirror before nodding. "Don't I know it."

Nudging him, she laughed playfully rolling her eyes. "Don't get the big head now. You cute but you ain't all that."

"I ain't all that?"

"Yep."

"I was all that just a few moments ago and I know for sure I was all that in that theater with the way you was all on a nigga." He reminded.

Looking at her nails, she shrugged. "I don't recall ever doing such a thing in my life."

"Oh really, well shit let me refresh your memory then." Leaning over towards her, he gently grabbed her by her chin and pulled closer so their lips could touch.

Sliding his tongue into her mouth, their lips moved together as they both tried to fight for dominance but he took over and she let him simply have his way. The kiss was gentle yet rough and had her ready to throw it back for him.

The whole night the sexual tension and chemistry was thick and Shanice was tryna keep her cool but with a man like Dave it was hard. He was charming, funny and the looks he always gave her had her ready to just bust it down for the one time.

But she knew he wasn't ready for all that yet, she knew if he ever got a taste of this he would never wanna leave her alone.

When he finally pulled away, he sat back in his seat and just watched as she tapped at her chin before shrugging. "Yeah, it's like the memory is right there but still a little blurry in my head. Maybe we should try again."

Laughing, he pushed her away before starting his car. "You stay playing man."

"All day, everyday." She chuckled.

"Mhm whatever, you tryna come back to my place though?" He asked looking over at her.

As a million thoughts ran through her mind sexual and all, the only thing or answer she could think of was, "Yes." And that was all he needed to hear before he started heading that way.

-
Guess how many words was typed in this chapter??

But thanks for the love & support as always!
- Denise 💋