Page 45 of Cessation
“Yeah.”
“Mr. Hughes, Gia is here and ready for your meeting.”
“Ask her to give me five minutes and she could enter.”
I was completely stuck and didn’t know if I was hearing shit or not. I knew how I felt but if her feelings were mutual then I could openly voice my feelings about her to her. She didn’t want a label on us, but those words held more sentimental value than any title she could acknowledge us as.
Time with Yani wasn’t wasted so if she did love me, it meant that she was accepting the treatment I gave her. I tried my best to make her feel appreciated and wanted. I spoiled her with gifts and quality time as if that was what kept her energized. Anything she wanted; she didn’t have to ask for twice. I did my job as a man so if what she said was true, I felt accomplished. My only goal was to get her to love me in return.
&
“She said what now?”
The day had continued, but the words Yani said to me were still ringing loud as if they were just spoken. I didn’t know what to say or do. She had been avoiding me ever since as well. No response back to my calls or text. I knew I was worth some of her time and at least an explanation.
“Her exact words were “Bye handsome man. I love you”and I been fucked up ever since.”
“Damn. Do you think it was an impulsive thing or that was really how she felt?”
“That’s the thing Jo, I can’t call it. Like, when we together everything just seems right. We barely argue and shit so damn good with us that I low key think she does.”
“That’s big if she does. Y’all been at this for some months so it wouldn’t be surprising. Has she mentioned her ex or anything lately?”
“Not since the last time we had a transparent conversation. I can tell she not truly over him though. She avoids bringing him up a lot.”
“What if she ain’t over him for real? I mean, didn’t you say they were together for ten years?”
“Yeah, that’s what she said. I know her feelings for him won’t wash away with ease, but I was hoping that the time we were putting in was making it easier for her. Hell, I’m already working overtime for Brendon’s approval. He doesn’t want Yani with anyone but his pops.”
Lately, I was taking him out for lunch dates to try and gain a relationship with him. I knew how he felt but I was still trying because eventually his mother was going to be my wife. At least that was the goal I was working toward.
“Shit, you knew that was going to take more time and effort than getting with Yani. I know how I was about dukes and that dating shit.”
“Why she not talking to me though?”
“Nigga she probably trying to process what the fuck she said as well. Give her time to come to you. More than likely, she scared herself.”
I got what he was saying. Those words weren’t ones you just threw around lightly. Coming from someone you had strong feelings for, they hit different. I was surprised to even hear them, so I knew what she was going through momentarily.
“Anyway, off her and on this birthday party. It’s in a few weeks. You got a date yet?”
“I planned on bringing my woman Dawn with me.”
“I been meaning to ask you, what’s Dawn’s last name?”
“Sullivan. Why?”
“How coincidental. That’s Yani’s best friend.”
“Say word? Damn this world getting smaller and smaller.”
“Same shit I been saying. Yani speaks highly of her. This shit is wild.”
I had a feeling that Josiaha had ran into Yani’s right hand man and he confirmed it. The girl talks those two had could only be imagined.
“She’s on her way over here now. She should be pulling up any minute now.”
“You could’ve warned me before I dropped by nigga. I would’ve just hit yo’ line.”
