Shawnie's POV

The next day, I woke up to alerts. I knew I would, it was no surprise. Blogs were talking about us heavily. Our faces were on every blog site that I went to. Like clockwork, I was getting a text from Jason Lee.

JL: ???

Me: No relationship. Just friends, hanging out.

JL: potential relationship?

Me: Now you know I'm not answering that. What do you want to know?

JL: How did it happen?

Me: We share a publicist.

JL: Is he the mystery man you've been posting on IG?

Me: no

Even though Not figured out I'm somewhat seeing Odell, maybe I need to keep this from the public a little longer.

JL: Oh so this is a new man. Do you ever plan on revealing him?

Me: I don't know.

JL: I won't get too into your business but give me a heads up next time you're going to be in public with a new guy so I can be the first to run the story.

Me: Does it really matter? You get the exclusive. 😉

JL: That's true.

After I wrapped that conversation up, I went to look at the rest of my messages.

"...Aubrey. Nope!" I delete the thread. "Mercedes, not right now."

I see a text from my main man that's not so main.

OBJ: So you really went on a date with Jalen Hurts? I'm not mad about it but why didn't you tell me? I need you to move cautiously when he comes to another football player. That shit could play out on the field.

I didn't think about it this way. He's right. I can't date someone else in the NFL.

Me: Hey! Hope your day is going well. You're right. I wasn't thinking. We're going out later today but I won't see him after tonight.

OBJ: You need to chill out on public outings.

Me: I got you.

OBJ: 😊

I laugh to myself, then I get up to get ready for my day.

********

Later that day, Joe and I made our way to the studio to meet up with Jalen. It was my first time ever stepping foot into a film studio, and I must say, the experience was pretty cool. I got to witness Jalen talking about his life in an ESPN documentary for about an hour. It was fascinating to see him share his story.

After Jalen finished up at the studio, we headed out for an early dinner. He took us to a restaurant called Tatel, which was a new place for me. I was excited to try something different.

Once we finished our meal at Tatel, Jalen suggested going to an arcade. Now, if I'm being honest, going to an arcade wasn't exactly my first choice. But Jalen explained that due to the upcoming football season, he had certain restrictions in his contract. He couldn't partake in activities that could potentially jeopardize his ability to play. So, for safety's sake, we opted for some arcade fun instead.

While it may not have been my ideal plan, we made the best of the situation and enjoyed playing various arcade games.

As I played a driving game at the arcade, I suddenly sensed someone standing behind me. I turned to see Jalen, who had come up behind me and placed his arms around my waist. His question caught me off guard.

"You gonna come visit me in Philly?" he asked. The situation felt awkward, and I could feel the gaze of Joe, who was standing nearby, burning into me from the side. The presence of Joe made the situation even more uncomfortable.

Feeling the weight of the situation, I turned around to face Jalen, trying to navigate the discomfort that hung in the air. It seemed like a tense moment, with the awareness of Joe's presence adding an extra layer of complexity to the interaction.

"I don't know." I say. "You think this is going that way?"

"I want to see you again." His hand tightened around my waist. "I would like to get to know you." I was a little uncomfortable but I decided to keep it to myself.

Feeling the need to establish boundaries, I lightly pushed Jalen back, creating some distance between us.

"I don't know when I'll have time to leave LA. You know I have two kids right?"

"I know...they can come too." His body pressed against mine, and he lowered his hands, intensifying the discomfort of the moment. I opened my mouth to address the situation, but before I could say anything, Joe's voice interrupted the conversation.

"Too low." He says and moves Jalen's hand back up to my waist.

"Damn..." he snatches his hand away from Joe.

"Keep your hands above her waist." Joe says

Jalen looks at me, then looks at Joe. I don't have anything to say. Joe was right, and he said something before I could.

"Is it that serious?" Jalen says

"Well...keep your fucking hands above her waist."

This can go back quick so I decided to intervene and put an end to the escalating situation.

"I think I'm ready to go." I stated, indicating my desire to remove myself from the uncomfortable dynamic and regain a sense of control over the situation

"Aight, I'll take you." Jalen says

"No, it's okay. I'll just leave with Joe." I say. "I'll call you.." I say then we quickly leave.

***********

We get into Joe's truck and he pulls off. It was quiet. We really didn't say anything for a few minutes. The whole situation was a little awkward. I appreciate Joe doing what he did, but I think he should've given me a chance to speak up for myself. Our situation is a little sensitive because of the obvious, maybe he shouldn't have been here because we are involved with one another but as I stated before I only feel safe when he's around me. I don't know, things are just jacked up.

"Are we not going to talk about what happened!" He asks, not taking his eyes off of the road.

"We can talk about it if you want to but there's not much to say. Thank you for doing it but I just feel like you should've waited a little longer. I was gonna say something."

"You're right. I'm sorry, I should've." He says

"So I guess that's over." I laugh

"You don't plan on seeing him anymore?"

"No... I'm just gonna put it off as a publicity stunt. Odell doesn't want me to see him either. He says that could be a problem on the field."

"Can I be honest with you?" I ask

"Of course." He says

"I only agreed to go out with him tonight, so I would have a reason not to go to Chris's birthday party." I admit

"I already knew that but why not?"

"Obvious reasons. He also wants to introduce me to Karrueche, but I don't wanna meet her. I think it's too soon."

"You have the right to feel that way. Learn to do things on your own time when everyone else wants you to." He says. "Mercedes and Dori went and brought Jey along."

"I hope they have fun." I say

Joe doesn't say anything else he just drives. I put my hand over to his side and I started rubbing his head.

"How long are you going to continue to make me date?"

He laughs. "Make you? You said you wanted to focus on that. You went on one date and now you're over it. I told you you wouldn't last long."

"I'm not over it, I'm just tired of it."

He laughs again. "One date." He reiterates.

"Jayson Tatum invited me out."

"When is this?"

"Now...." I say, looking out the window.

"You're really trying to avoid Chris' party, huh?"

yes

"Aight...where is it?"

"Nightingale."

He smiles and shakes his head.

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

When we got there, there were a lot of people outside. You could see people were lined up waiting to get in. Thankfully, I am who I am and I don't have to wait in those lines anymore. Joe pulled up to the door, gave valet the keys and then he helped me out of the car. As soon as they saw me they started calling my name and taking pictures. I took a few pictures with fans, then Joe escorted me inside.

Jayson was sitting in the vip with club goers all around. He spots me walking towards him and motions for me to come over.

"Can you just chill." I say

"I'm always chillin." Joe says with a smile.

We walk over to Jayson and Joe walks away but keeping a close distance. Once I get to Jayson he stands up.

"Hey, it's great to finally see you!" Jayson exclaims, his smile contagious, I caught myself smiling back at him. His genuine excitement of finally being able to meet up with me makes me feel good. We've been talking about this for a while I'm happy it's finally happening. Different vibe from Jalen. He was happy but it was giving something else. Jayson was making me feel at ease amidst the pulsating energy of the club. There were people all around the house, but for some reason it always gets to me, but I'm sitting next to a guy, but he's just locked in on me with so many distractions around us.

"I'm happy you're here." He says in my ear.

"I'm happy to be here." I smile.

"You're beautiful." He says

"Thank you." I say blushing lightly. I wasn't expecting this. I know I'm bright red.

As the night unfolds, Jayson and I dove deeper into conversation, exchanging stories, laughter, and even a few playful jabs. I was happy to be here with him and not at Chris' party. Drinks and the energy around us seems to amplify our connection, drawing us closer together amidst the pulsating beats and flashing lights.

Joe occasionally checks in discreetly, making sure everything is going smoothly. His presence is reassuring, allowing us to fully immerse ourselves in the moment. I caught him watching a few times. I think he was starting to get antsy. He didn't think I was going to stay longer than 30 minutes. We locked eyes a couple of times, and I could tell he was growing impatient. He didn't want me here but I was enjoying myself, something Joe pushed me to do but I knew it was only a matter of time before Joe stepped in.

Jayson leans in closer, his voice barely audible over the music. "You know, I didn't think you would come."

"Well my night opened up." I say

"You were with Hurts last night...what's up with that?"

"We're friends, that's all."

"No worries." He says. "I think we should hang out more. I think you're beautiful. I want to get to know more about you."

I was a little taken aback by Jayson's sudden shift in tone. I take a moment to compose myself before responding.

"I spent some time with Jalen last night, but it's purely a friendship." I clarify, hoping to dispel any misconceptions. "As for getting to know each other more, I'd like that too."

A smile dances across Jayson's face.

I look at Joe and I begin to notice a subtle change in his demeanor. Despite his best efforts to maintain composure, a flicker of concern passes through his eyes each time our gazes meet. I can sense his growing impatience, his desire for us to wrap up our time at the club.

"..... but I have to be honest with you."

"What's up?"

"I'm involved with someone. So if you really want to get to know me you would have to understand that I'm single and I might be seen with someone else."

Jayson's smile fades slightly as my words sink in. His expression shifts to a mix of surprise and understanding. He takes a moment to process the information before responding.

"I appreciate your honesty," Jayson says, his tone tinged with a hint of disappointment. "If you're involved with someone, I understand that your focus is on that relationship. I respect that, and I don't want to cause any complications."

I glance over at Joe, who seems to relax a bit upon hearing our conversation. His concerns, though still present, appear to have slightly eased knowing that I've been forthcoming about our current situation.

Jayson continues, a touch of sincerity in his voice. "Even though the timing may not be right, if circumstances change in the future, maybe our paths will align again."

I nod, appreciating Jayson's understanding. "Thank you for being understanding and supportive. It means a lot to me."

With that mutual understanding, we both settle into the night, enjoying each other's company without any expectations or pressures.

*********

Chris POV

I was about to introduce my old but new girlfriend, Karrueche, to my closest friends. Yeah, I considered Mercedes and Dori part of my circle. Even though I'm not with Shawnie anymore, we're still close. I wanted everything to go smoothly and for everyone to get along. No drama.

As I approached Mercedes, I immediately sensed her indifference. It was as if she didn't care to meet Kae at all. It hurt, honestly. I had hoped that my friends would be happy for me and embrace my new relationship. I wanted them to see how happy Kae made me. I know it's a little awkward because it's not her cousin but I still feel she should be happy for me. I understood that she was loyal to my ex-fiancé, but I had hoped that our friendship would be strong enough to look past that, at least for tonight.

On the other hand, Dori surprised me with her warmth and kindness. Dori has consistently shown kindness towards me, that's never been an issue. With her being Shawnie's best friend, I thought she would hate me but she genuinely seemed interested in getting to know Kae, making an effort to include her in conversations and making her feel welcome. I appreciated Dori's friendly demeanor, and it made me feel grateful that at least someone was accepting Kae. Not sure how well this is going to go over with Shawnie, but we'll cross that bridge when we get to it.

Not gonna lie, I was a little upset that Shawnie didn't show up. I really wanted her to meet Kae because if anyone knows how important to me she is, it's her. I thought she would be mature enough to show her face and I'm not gonna say she's not, but I still feel like she should've been here. I asked Mercedes about it, and all she did was shrug her shoulders. I know she knows where she is but I'm not gonna sweat it. Even though I wanted this meeting to happen, I have to consider her feelings.

I just shake my head at the whole situation because I think it's fucked up. All of this is fucked up. When I was acting up and she wanted me to chill out, I couldn't and now she's acting up now that I am calm and accepting of our situation. I just want us to come to a common ground. We just have so much history together it's hard to and we both understand that. But now we're at a point where she has somebody and I have somebody. We should be able to come together and create a solid foundation for our daughter. Same with her and Drake.

I just pray that this gets better.

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

Shawnie's POV

Two weeks later.

Joe and I were sitting outside by the pool. I was laying on my stomach tanning and he was sitting next to me having a drink.

"So how's the party planning going?" Joe asks

"It's going. Don't worry about it. I'm going to have everything done. All you have to do is show up."

"I think this party is gonna be out of hand and over the top." He laughs

"No, it's definitely not gonna be over the top but it's gonna be really nice and I believe you'll like it."

"I trust you." He says. "We'll see..."

"Rub this on me." I picked up sunscreen and handed it to him.

"You know they have sprays for that."

"Yes, but I like you rubbing it on me." I smile

He just laughs and takes the bottle. "You know we can't be too physical. Your dad is here now."

"I know, but I'm happy he's here. I just have to talk to him about what's going on."

"Has he brought anything up?" He starts rubbing it on my back.

"No and I'm shocked. He went crazy about Odell but he hasn't said anything about Jalen."

"Maybe he knows it's nothing."

"Maybe." I say

"Have you spoken to either one of them?"

"They have texted, but my focus is elsewhere."

"Me?" His hands move down to my butt, rubbing the lotion on.

"Of course." I say

He doesn't say anything. After a few minutes go by he finally speaks.

"Turn over." He says

I do as I'm told. I don't lay down, I sit up and look at him. He placed his hand on my thigh and lightly massaged it.

"Ima be honest, us not having sex for the last two weeks has turned me on more than you could ever imagine. Your dad being here is a good thing but I really, really want to make love to you."

I smile and put my hands around his neck but he quickly removes them while looking around.

"Don't do that. I don't know who's watching."

"Are you scared of my dad?" I laugh

"No. I just want to talk to him first. I owe him that."

"Why?"

"Respect." He says. "I've already been doing this wrong but he deserves a conversation. You know how I am... I'm a little old-school. The last time he was here he was suspicious of us and now that we really fucking with each other, I want his blessing."

"Joe, that's nice and all but you don't need it. We're already deep in this and what if he doesn't give it to you?"

"I don't know but I want to do this. I'll deal with it if it happens." He says

I nod my head. "Okay.." I say. "I want to kiss you so bad though."

"Maybe we can't sneak one later." We both laugh.

As the sexual tension between us lingers, we share a moment of understanding and anticipation. Him wanting my father's blessing before taking our relationship further speaks volumes about his integrity. Joe is such a good man to me and if my dad didn't give him his blessing, I don't know what I would do. But it's a good thing he likes Joe. I just don't know if he likes Joe and I've been an item or something like an item. That would have to be another situation that I go against my dad because I am not letting go of Joe.

With a smile on my face, I lean in closer, and our laughter fades into a passionate silence. I was going to kiss him away but we were interrupted.

"Hey! I'm going to head out..." we hear my dad say, catching us off guard.

Joe scoots away from me a few inches. "Hey, Mr. Roberts."

"What's up, guys. I have a few things I need to do." He says. "You'll give me the keys so I can go?"

"Yeah but what do you have to do here in California? You just got here. Did you find a girlfriend already?" Joe and I laugh.

"No. Not yet. Give me a week...I just have to go to the store." He says

"Oh okay. Joe can take you." I say

"Yeah." Joe stands up. "Come on."

"Nah nah...you don't have to. I can take myself."

"Daddy, we would feel better if you had security with you."

"I don't need no damn security. I've been living on my own for years." He snaps

"Yes, in Chicago. And being out here is a different story and on top of that you're leaving out of my house once they see who you are they're going to follow you and I will feel better knowing that you're with Joe."

"What about the other one?"

I laugh. "Ben?"

"Yeah, Ben can take me." He says

"Are you sure? You don't really know him like that." I ask.

"Well I need to get to know him if I'm gonna be living here."

"Okay, whatever daddy." I say waving him off. I don't say anything else, I just let him go.

After a few minutes have passed, I look over at Joe, and he just shakes his head and laughs at me.

"No." He says

"Come on just see where he is. I think it's hella sketchy that he comes here and he doesn't know anyone, but all of a sudden he wants to go somewhere by himself. He doesn't even know his way around."

"Ben is with him." He says

"Just watch Ben's location." Joe pulls out his phone. "Are they on the Highway?"

"Yup." Joe says

I just shake my head. "I already know where he's heading...to see his son he never had."

"Where do you think he's going?" Joe asks

"To Chris's house. You know in his head that's his son-in-law." I roll my eyes.

"Oh." He says

"Question about that though, do you think the two of you can ever get on the same page again, because at one point you guys were cool." I say

"I don't mind it. I just don't want him doing all that extra bullshit around me. The two times we got into it, that's exactly what he was doing. When he's just chill, everything is cool." Joe says

"I agree. But that's something that I am going to have to ask you to really consider because Chris is the one person that I really get along with and he is a really good friend. It makes it a little bit complicated that we were engaged but we're strictly friends now, and I just want us to be able to be around each other with our daughter and you guys be cool."

"You know, I'm very mature when it comes to shit like that. I apologized to him the first time. If you want me to, I will apologize again. I told you I don't have a problem with him. It's just sometimes he gets a little bit out of hand."

"Oh, so maybe one day I can invite him over and we just chill out." I smile.

"I'm cool with that."

"Anyway, since no one is here right now, you wanna go upstairs and mess around?" I ask

Joe looks at me with a mix of desire and restraint. He knows the timing is not ideal, considering the situation with my father, but the temptation is too strong to resist right now. A mischievous smile forms on his face.

"I want nothing more than to take you upstairs...."

"No one is here..."

"Let's make this quick." He jumps up and grabs me, throwing me over his shoulder.

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