Layla's POV

"Good night, Austin." As he was about to walk towards his truck, I finally saw who lives in that house across the street. "Oh, you have got to be kidding me!!"

Austin stopped in his tracks and walked back to me. "Layla, is everything okay?" 

"Yesterday while my mother watched Braelyn, my friends took me out to a club because of the bad day I had at work because of you. You kept calling me and it was getting on my nerves. By the way, please don't do that again. Anywho, they thought I needed a night out. It had been a while since I went out because Braelyn is my priority - nothing comes before her."

"Well, anyway, while at the club, Alicia and I went to get something to drink. While walking back to our group, jerk of the year over there walked into me and started screaming at me that I owe him for spilling his drink on him. Which, I did not. Then, he started talking crap about his clothes costing more than what I make a year. Austin, I make six figures a year. I doubt his clothes costs that much. You don't have to stay. I can handle him. His type doesn't scare me."

"Are you sure? I don't mind staying. I can leave early in the morning. I actually keep a change of clothes in my truck, just in case of an emergency. Does Braelyn go to daycare? I can take her."

"I take her with me to work. I do not want my baby girl going to daycare. She doesn't bother me at all. Sometimes, she even picks out different colors for some of my designs. We will soon be starting a children's line inspired by Braelyn."

"I see. I'll be calling about visiting again. And, sorry for disturbing you at work."

"Wait, before you leave, here is my cellphone number. It is 246-802-4680."

"Got it. Good night, Layla." After that, he walked to his truck, got in and drove off.

Jerk of the year waited until Austin left to come over. "How can you afford living in this area? And, you still owe me for my outfit."

"It is none of your darn business how I can afford to live here. And, like I said at the club, I DO NOT OWE YOU ANYTHING! Get that through your thick head! You can't talk to me at all, 'Mr. I have a different woman almost every night.'" 

"That is none of your business who comes to my house!" 

"It is my business when my four year old daughter sees that kind of stuff!"

Nolan's POV

Dang, I can't stand her, but she is totally making me want to take her back to my place and do unholy things to her. Look at how those yoga pants and how they hug her body. And, that tank top - I just want to rip it off. If only for one night.

"That is not my problem you have a four year old child. Cover her eyes. You are going to regret your decision of not paying me. I am going to make your life a nightmare now that I know you live here."

"You don't scare me. I'm a grown woman. I can't stand you!!! Now, get off..........."

To shut her up, I grabbed her and kissed her succulent, plump lips that were screaming to me. She started punching me in my chest. She eventually wiggled away from my hold.

"What the heck you do that for?!! Now I am going to have to wash my mouth because I don't know what your lips have touched."

"One, I can't stand you neither. Two, you were getting on my nerves. And, you wish you was one of those girls walking in my house."

"Not even in a million years would I set foot in that house! I don't want to catch whatever disease you have!"

She then punched me in the gut and said, "Stay away from me and my daughter or else I will make your life a living nightmare!" And, then walked back in her house and closed the door.

I walked back over to my house and went back to my 'fun' I was having.

"Now, where we?" 

"About to have our way with each other."

"Get ready to go back to paradise." 

"Oh my gosh, Nolan, I could get used to this." This chick screamed and moaned.

"Yeah, well don't. This is a one-time shot. Enjoy it while you can."

***********************************

Monday morning

Layla's POV

"Braelyn! Baby, time to wake up."

Yawning, she said, "Morning, mommy." 

"Let's go get your bath and get you dressed." Braelyn got out of the bed and headed for the bathroom.

While running her bath water, I asked her, "Did you have a fun time with daddy yesterday?"

"I did mommy? Where is he?"

"He went back to his home."

"He's not staying with us?"

"No, he is not. But, he said he is going to call to see when he can come over to see you."

"I wish daddy could stay with us."

"Well, he would have if he didn't lead me to believe I was the only one in his life 4 years ago." I grumbled while running her water. I helped Braelyn in her tub and she washed herself. After about 20 minutes, she started splashing water. "Okay, time to get you out, little girl." So, I grabbed a towel, wrapped it around her and helped her out. "Go put on your underwear, so you can get dressed."

"Okay mommy."

She ran out the bathroom and did just like I told her. "Brae sweetie, you can wear jeans today. Pick out a shirt and shoes so mommy can go get ready." "Yes, mommy."

I went to my bathroom and started getting ready. At my business, I have casual Friday and on Monday, business casual - at headquarters and at my stores as well. My meetings are typically scheduled for Tuesday - Thursday. My employees are like my family. We also have picnics in the park and I give them quarterly bonuses.

So, for today, I put on my navy blue Dereon jeans and a white casual tube top. Then added my jewelry and navy stiletto heels. After getting dressed, I went downstairs to fix breakfast for Braelyn and myself.

"What would you like for breakfast?"

"Some pancakes mommy." "Okay, pancakes coming up." I fixed pancakes for both of us. After we ate, "Braelyn, go get your backpack and meet me at the front door." While she did that, I went and got my purse and keys to my truck. She was at the door ready to go, so we left the house.

I may be rich, but I don't live like it. Most have a mass number of cars. But, I just have my Mercedes. As I loaded Braelyn in her car seat, jerk of the year came out of his house with his chick for the day. "Does he have no shame?" I got in my truck and drove us to work.

Nolan's POV

Dang, she was working those jeans. How does she do it? Nice house and drives a Mercedes-Benz SUV? She is totally hot, but I can't stand her. But, I couldn't stop staring.

"Nolan, hello! Why are you staring at her driving off? Who is she?" 

"Uh, she is nobody. Why are you worried anyway? Thanks for last night and don't bother coming back!"

"B-b-but, what about what we did?"

"I told you I don't do relationships. Have a nice life." I got in my Escalade and made my way to work.

Blake's POV

"I saw you staring at your neighbor, Nolan Grant. If I have to eliminate her, I will. You will not get rid of me easily."

Layla's POV

I have a parking spot right in front of my building so Braelyn and I don't have far to walk. We have on-site security, as well as ADT. Like I said, my staff is like my family. Alicia and Jamala work with me. Alicia is my Vice President and Jamala is my CFO - Chief Financial Officer.

"Good morning, Kimberly? How was your weekend?" Kimberly is my front desk receptionist. "It was great, Layla. Thanks for asking." Brae and I made our way to the elevator to the top floor where my office is.

"Mommy, can I press the button?"

"Of course, you can, sweetie." Brae always asks me and I let her. So, I lifted her up to press the top floor. Once we stepped off, we were greeted by my personal secretary. "Good morning, Layla and Braelyn."

"Good morning, Mrs. Lewis. Say hi, Braelyn."

"Hi." 

I had my office redesigned to have a boardroom table and chairs set up. That way I would keep a watchful eye on Braelyn. I also have a mini fridge in there, so we can keep snacks and drinks for her. She went over to her usual spot with her backpack and I went to my desk. "At least today Austin won't be calling me all day." The only meeting I have on Monday is with Alicia and Jamala to discuss financials of the business. That is usually is around 9:30 am. So, I just went through my emails until then.

"Mommy, I'm thirsty. Can I have something to drink?"

"Grab a water from the fridge, Brae."

Each location submitted their sales reports for the week, so I printed them out for our meeting. "Excellent sales figures for last week." As I sat there contemplating if I should open in Europe, Alicia and Jamala came in.

"Good morning, Brae and Layla."

"Hi, auntie."

"Brae, baby, can you switch with mommy and you can play on my computer?"

"Okay, mommy."

"So Layla, have you thought anymore about opening up in Europe?" Jamala asked.

Then, Alicia added, "Business is booming in America. And, I got another call from my contact in Italy that they received so many compliments on their dress and wanted to know where they bought it from. They also have the perfect location in Milan for the store. I can set up a meeting for us to go to Milan in a few weeks."

"Let's do it then. How long would the trip be for? Because I don't want to take Braelyn with me. I am not leaving my child with some stranger in Italy while I attend any meetings."

"Well, now that Austin is in Braelyn's life, it is time for him to step up and prove to you and Braelyn that he will be in her life forever." Alicia advised me.

"I agree with Alicia, Layla. Speaking of Austin, how did yesterday go?"

"She took it quite well. She had both of us in tears."

"Layla, I know it is too soon, but I am rooting for you and Austin to get back together."

"I just let him in Brae's life. I am not about to let him back in mine. That hurt is still there from 4 years ago. I had to raise Braelyn for 4 years without him. Let's adjourn the meeting and talk about this later."

Alicia and Jamala went back to their offices. "Brae sweetie, can mommy switch places again? And, what would you like for lunch today?"

"A hamburger and some fries. Can I call daddy today?"

"Mommy lost daddy's number sweetie." I wasn't lying. When I left his house, I deleted his number off my phone. So, I really don't know it. Hopefully, he will call today.

Around 12:30 pm, he did. So, I gave Braelyn the phone to talk to him while we were at lunch. They talked for a while, which the both of them needed. I really am happy that my baby has her father now in her life.

**********************************

The rest of the week flew by fast. Alicia's new beau, Dean, is throwing a party. She wants me to be there with her. Alicia and I have been best friends forever. I am an only child, so I didn't have any brothers or sisters. I think of Alicia as my sister from another mister. She has always been there for me, especially when I had Braelyn. I asked Austin if he could babysit Braelyn Friday night and he said yes.

**********************************

Friday afternoon

"Braelyn, start packing up your backpack. We are about to go home for the day."

"Okay, mommy."

While I was shutting my computer down, Alicia stopped by. "Do you need a ride for tonight? Dean is sending a limo for me and my friends."

"Ooh la la, sounds like Dean has the hots for you, girly. Sure, I'll ride with you. Do you want me to drive to your house?"

"Nope. I'll have the limo pick you up from your house. It should be there around 8:30 pm."

"Okay. I'll see you later." Braelyn had her backpack ready. "Brae, let's go home." So, we left my office and made our way home.

The traffic was once again heavy. But, when is it not heavy leaving Manhattan? By the time we got home, it was 7:00 pm. Austin was already there and waiting in his truck.

"Hi, we were stuck in traffic." Braelyn ran up to Austin and jumped in his arms. "Hi, daddy!" And, then she gave him a kiss.

"Hi, baby girl, have you been good for mommy?"

"Yes, daddy."

Austin's POV

"She was a little fussy today, so we left early. But, because of traffic, we are just now getting home." Layla mentioned.

She caught me staring at her and rolled her eyes. "Stop staring, you know I hate that." 

How can one not stare at her? She is everything a man wants in a woman - beautiful in looks, a beautiful heart, caring, smart and sexy. Layla is also feisty. She doesn't take junk from no one, including me. I crave her touch - for her to be in my arms again and to wake up to her beautiful face again.

While walking towards her front door, I couldn't help but admire the view from the back. Layla is built - from head to toe. "Daddy wants a taste again."

"I know you are staring at my butt, Austin. Quit it." 

Once in the house Layla asked, "Brae, what do you want for dinner?"

"Listen, let me fix her something to eat. You go get ready for your party."

"Thank you." She walked out the kitchen to go upstairs. I can't help but look because she got it like that. 

"So, what would you like for dinner, Braelyn?"

"Daddy, can we have cheese pizza?" I went to the refrigerator to see if it is okay for Braelyn to eat that. Layla has a list of things Braelyn can eat. And, a list of things she can't eat. Pizza is good, so I ordered a cheese pizza and some mild chicken wings. I didn't get soda because that is a no-no for Braelyn after 7:00 pm.

The pizza and wings arrived around 8:15 pm. So, I paid for the food and we headed towards the living room. "Pop in what movie you would like, and I'll get some plates." So, I went in the kitchen, and grabbed two plates. On my way to the living room, Layla came downstairs. "Have mercy on my soul." She had on this form-fitted black short dress that was screaming for me to grab her and turn the television up real loud, so Braelyn would not hear the noise. I am really jealous of who talks to her at this party.

"Braelyn, behave for your daddy. And, Austin, don't break my trust." 

"I promise, mommy."

"I promise, Layla." If I want her back by my side, I better not break her trust.

We heard a car horn. "Enjoy your time together and see you when I get home." I got up off the couch to see who was picking her up. I couldn't tell because she got in a limousine.

"Now, I am really jealous, but it is my own fault." After the limo pulled off, I went inside to watch a movie with my daughter.

***********************************

Layla's POV

This party was at Dean's penthouse in the heart of NYC. His place was right near Central Park. Once again, we hit traffic. We didn't get to his place until about 9:30 pm. When we arrived, we gave the receptionist our names and then was lead to the elevators to the top floor. We didn't have to knock on the door, because he was there waiting for us. "Ladies, welcome to my penthouse. Come on in."

He had a two-story penthouse. My goodness, I don't even want to know what he pays a month to live here. He gave us a tour of where everything was and then took us to introduce some of his friends. "Gentlemen, these are Alicia's friends."

"Hi fellas, I am Layla." Then, Jamala, Sophie, and Riley introduced themselves. Okay, his friends are totally hot. But, looks could be deceiving. There was one particular guy that caught my eye.  And, I noticed he was checking me out too. When I looked at him, the song, "You Don't Know My Name," by Alicia Keys came to mind. "Excuse me, everyone." I got up and went to get something to eat.

"My goodness, this kitchen is huge." On his kitchen island was an array of food. I picked up some of the shrimp cocktail, seafood salad, bruschetta and he even had grilled food. So, I got a small piece of filet mignon. The hard part was finding somewhere to sit because it was packed.

I found a spot on his patio. "This is a beautiful view of Central Park." Then, I heard someone say, "Not as beautiful as you." It was one of Dean's friends from the living room.

"Oh, hi. What was your name again?"

"Ryan. So, madam, why is someone as beautiful as you sitting out here by yourself? Mind if I join you?"

"Sure. It's a free country. But, before you do, I have a 4 year old daughter whom I love very much. So, I am not really interested in dating right now. My daughter comes first in my life. But, if you are looking for a friend, that's me."

"That's understandable."

"And, I didn't want to feel like a third wheel with my friends inside. What about you? You're a handsome guy. How come you are here by yourself?"

"It's been two months since I broke up with my girlfriend. She was nothing but a gold digger and cheated on me. But, it is her loss."

"The same for me. It's been almost 5 years since I been on a date. The last time was with my daughter's father. But, he wasn't a gold digger. I went to tell him that I was pregnant with our daughter and he tells me he is engaged to someone else. And, now he is back. But, I have only allowed him to be in her life. I am not going back down that road again."

"But the both of us are still young. So, we still have time to find that special someone."

Ryan's POV

"I wonder if she is the woman Austin was talking about. If so, what possessed him to hurt her like that? She is extremely beautiful. If I have to wait forever for her, I will. I want her."

Layla's POV

Ryan seems like a nice guy. He was really sweet the whole time we sat on the patio while I was eating. We wound up talking most of the time at the party. I started thinking, "Maybe I should give him a chance." Suddenly, we heard commotion going on inside. "He's here?"

"You met Nolan before?"

"Have I? Goodness gracious, at the club last week, he started rambling about me walking into him and that I owe him money for his clothes. I don't owe him a dime. And then, I found out he lives on my street. He brings home almost a different woman every day. That's just disgusting, and my daughter sees this mess."

"You left right before I came. I met your friends, but not you. That's Nolan for you. The boy just can't keep it in his pants."

"As long as he is in there, then I am staying out here." Just as I said that, Alicia found me. "Hey Layla, it's dancing time, girly."

"How would my new friend like to dance with me?" Ryan asked me.

"I would love to dance, especially after eating this delicious food." So, we walked back inside and went to dance.

Alicia's POV

We all know that Nolan and Layla like each other. So the plan is to get them together. But, first we have to get them to actually like each other. "Ryan is messing up the plan, Dean. I know you said he has trust issues, but both Ryan and Layla seem to be comfortable with each other - bumping and grinding on each other."

"All Nolan talks about is how she messed up his clothes. He says he can't stand her, but I can tell otherwise. He goes on and on about Layla. And, he mentioned that she lives across the street from him." Dean mentioned to me.

Jamala and Eric walked over. "Looks like Layla is having fun with Ryan. Too bad because I am #teamaustin. I hope she gives him another chance."

"Well, I am #teamnolan. That guy needs some serious help. His playboy ways are not going to last."

Eric had the smartest reply, "Shouldn't it be up to Layla who she chooses? You both said she has a daughter. So, let her do what is best for her and her daughter. Whether it is Ryan, Nolan, or the father of her daughter, let her choose."

"You're right." Then, I muttered, "Please let it be Nolan."

Layla's POV

"Ryan is very attractive, can dance and had a similar experience to me, except he doesn't have children." I pondered while we were dancing. So, I mustered up the courage to ask him, "Ryan, do you have an issue with me having kids?"

"No. Why did you ask? I actually love kids and hope to have some of my own one day."

"We have known each other for a few hours and I usually don't let a guy dance this close to me. You have been nothing but nice to me. And, I have to admit, when Dean introduced me to you all, you were the first one I looked at. I am scared to do this, but I would like to get to know you further. I'll give you my number after we finish dancing."

"Well, let's be scared together. I really like you too, Layla. You really are beautiful. You have your priorities straight - family first. I initially came out to ask you about going out with me. But, backed off when you said you was not interested in dating. Let's definitely start out as friends and see where it goes from there. And, I'll give you my number as well."

Suddenly, there was drama. "Ryan Meyers, what are you doing here?! And, dancing with her?!"  This chick bumped into me and pushed me out of the way.

"Oh goodness, that is my ex. How she got in here, I don't know."

"I can handle her. Watch."

"Listen, there is a reason you are his ex-girlfriend. Ryan has moved on and so should you. Ryan and I have a date on Sunday to get to know each other." Well, now we do. "Now, you touched me, and I don't like that. I would appreciate it if you would back up out my face and back off Ryan!" 

Next, thing I knew, she threw her drink on me. "Honey, Ryan will always be mine. He doesn't like your kind."

"What the heck is wrong with people getting me wet from their drinks?!!! And, what do you mean by 'my kind?' I am giving you one last warning - get out my face and leave Ryan alone!!!" 

"Oh, you know exactly what I mean - black women." That was it! I punched her square in the mouth. 'Yeah, well guess what? He likes me and I certainly like him!"

"We were over 2 months ago, Blake!!! There is no more us! You cheated and claimed that 'your son' was mine! Stay away from me and Layla!!! I don't care what race Layla is! There is no rule saying I am supposed to date someone of the same race! She is beautiful and that is all that matters!"

Dean and Alicia came over. 'How did you get in here anyway?!!  Get out my house now!" He had her escorted out. "Layla, I have some clothes you can change into."

I gave her a look. "Well, I have been over here a few times and left some clothes for an emergency, just in case."

"Sure, Alicia. If that is the answer you are going with, then okay. "Before I go, Ryan, my number 246-802-4680. Call my phone and I'll have yours and add it as a new contact. I'll be right back." Right there in front of everyone, I gave him a kiss.

While Alicia and I went to get me a change of clothes, we had a chat. "Start talking, girly. You and Dean seem serious." 

"We haven't done that yet. But, he asked me tonight to be his girlfriend and is willing to wait for the right time to do that."

"Congratulations, Alicia. Sorry I missed that."

"That's okay. What outfit would you like - jeans and a shirt or a dress? And, what about you and Ryan?"

"Jeans and top are fine. I have to admit, I was drawn to him when Dean introduced us. But, I am afraid also into jumping into a relationship just as he is. So, we decided to start out as friends and will take it from there."

"Here are the jeans and top. And, leave your dress on the bed and I'll have it washed for you."

"Thanks, Alicia."

Nolan's POV

"What is wrong with people spilling their drinks over my clothes? And, who in the world is in the bathroom?!!

So, I walked over to the bathroom door and knocked on it. "What do you want? Can't a lady change her clothes in peace?" The female voice replied.

"Ooh, looks like I am going to have some 'fun' after all." 

But, as soon as the door opened, "You again?!! What are you doing here?"

"I am not too thrilled to see you either! I am here to support my friend, Alicia and Dean. Move out of my way so I can get away from you!"

"Gladly!" She walked towards the door and I went to the bathroom to change. While changing, I heard banging on the door. So, I opened the bathroom door, but I forgot to put on a shirt. "Why are you still in here?!! Get out already, Layla!!! 

Layla's POV

"Look jerk, I have been trying to get out of here! You and I are stuck in here because the door is freaking locked!!!" 

**********************************

Thank you all for reading chapter 4. 

The pictures are courtesy of Wikipedia Commons. 

Layla's office is courtesy of Can Stock Photos - © Can Stock Photo / Milovidov

Picture portrayal of Ryan is courtesy of Can Stock Photos - © Can Stock Photo / curaphotography

And, thank you all for the votes and comments. 😘😘