Page 58 of Love U Down II

“You don’t have to get so defensive.”

“Trust me, this is the light version.” I leaned back in my seat and crossed my arms and legs.

She sighed. “Myome, I wasn’t trying to upset you.”

“I’m not upset.”

“You sure about that?” She gestured up and down my body.

“Yeah.” I uncrossed my arms. “Let’s just talk about something else.”

“Okay.” She plucked up her drink and took a sip. “How’s the album coming?”

“It’s coming.” I nodded. “I’m excited about where it’s going so far. I was a little worried about what sound I wanted to lean into with this being my debut solo project, but thankfully we were able to get Allison over to Drix’s label so she’s been helping me navigate…” I paused while I watched my mom bob slightly to the music playing, her eyes darting one way then the other.

She wasn’t listening to a word I was saying but she froze when she saw me staring at her and smiled. I planted a smile on my face as well.

I texted Drix almost immediately.

Me: This is a waste of time and I’m irritated as fuck.

Hubby: Want me to get moms snatched & tossed in the trunk?

Me: Whose trunk?

Hubby: Don’t worry about it. Yes or no?

Me: No, Berlin.

Hubby: Ok.

Hubby: If you change your mind lmk.

Hubby: I got u.

Me: I know.

Hubby: Love u.

Me: Love you.

I locked my phone and flipped it face down on the table. When I looked at my mother, she was texting.

I decided to check my email, and when our food came out, we hadn’t spoken more than three sentences between us. We ate in more of the same silence. I set my card on the check and immediately grabbed my phone and purse so I could leave as soon as I got it back.

“Well this was nice,” my mother stated.

“Yeah.” I nodded and put my shades on.

She swallowed and shifted in her seat.

“I’d hate to dampen this nice time we’re having, but uh, I was wondering if we could talk about your father.”

And there it was, the real reason she’d invited me out.

I nodded.

“Sure. What’s up with him?”