Is it ever okay to lie to someone you love?
ARMANI PROCTOR, co-founder of TMK records, is a successful businessman with a dark past he’s trying desperately to leave behind. His deepest desire is realized when he meets a beautiful reporter and falls in love, only to have that love threatened when his old life begins to clash with his new.
SYDNEY HOLLINGSWORTH, senior writer with Mover & Shakers magazine, is the woman who captures Armani’s heart. Everyone loves her and her refreshing realness, but Sydney has a dark and clouded past of her own that she keeps and tries to outrun daily.
Join our cast and their supporting players and see for yourself if Armani truly is, King of the Game.
♪ Kenton…Superstar ♪
Come on Armani man,” Vashon pleaded with him.
One of his oldest friends, he included him in TMK when he started it. Their talent scout, he was trying to convince Armani to come hear the young man he found performing at one of the hot nightspots in the city.
Armani stared out at the Houston skyline from their hotel window posing the question to Vashon.
“What makes this one special?”
As far as Armani was concerned, seen one R&B singer, you’ve seen them all.
“The kid is talented Armani. Come on and give him a chance.”
Armani sighed heavily.
“Okay, fine.”
“Dang! It’s like pulling teeth with you man!”
Vashon laughed aloud, as they headed out of the suite down to his Porsche and over to the club.
They arrived halfway through Kenton’s performance. The two men garnered their own share of attention when they entered the club, extremely well dressed in the tailored suits. Armani in black, with burgundy accessories and Vashon in slate gray, with periwinkle accessories, both layered with ice spoke volumes to their prominence. Several women took them in as they sat watching the show. Armani secretly admitted he liked the kid’s sound. Kenton held a great stage presence, the audience eating out of his hand.
Vashon turned to Armani once the performance was finished.
“So?”
Armani looked at him evenly for a long time, before answering.
“Bring him back to the hotel tomorrow, and we’ll talk.”
Vashon laughed clapping his hands together.
“Excellent choice man!”
Armani sat back replaying the kid and his performance. He could definitely be marketed handsomely.
Armani didn’t know then how much of a pain the kid would turn out to be. He sighed audibly turning into the hotel. Armani worked too hard to watch his dream go up in smoke fooling around with an ungrateful youngster, clueless to what struggle really was. He would damn well straighten this kid out once and for all.
♪♪♪
Kenton continued relaxing in his suite with one of his makeup artists. He already slept with every woman on his staff; thoroughly enjoying his new lifestyle. Kenton recollected his first meeting with Armani at the hotel in Houston. He remembered being completely blown away when Vashon approached him that night at the club. Vashon, true to his word, sent the car to pick him up the following morning taking him downtown. Kenton acknowledged Armani unsettled him a bit. The man was strictly business at all times never having seen him partying or playing with anyone ever. He really needs to get laid. Kenton chuckled softly. He knew he would more than likely see Armani today after the issues at check-in. That wasn’t my fault. He was Kenton. Why shouldn’t he have what he wanted?
He was on top of the charts right now. His single number two in the nation, the fans couldn’t get enough of him. He was TMK right now. They better start recognizing and treating him better. Already checking out other record companies, Kenton planned to shop for a better deal. He saw other artists making more, enjoying the high life, equally sure they weren’t getting the hassles he received from Armani and TMK. Kenton hated having to play all these second rate venues believing himself as good as any of the rest of the hot artists right now.. Why couldn’t he play someplace bigger? He surely possessed the draw to sell any venue out right now. Being his usual anal self, Armani of course made him play the MetroPlex. He roused the sleeping girl from his bed telling her she needed to leave. Dressing quickly she gave him a peck on the cheek before heading out. Kenton thought about Derica. He missed her and Houston, both familiar to him. She was his girl. Well she used to be. She broke up with him once he got signed. How backward is that?
Fully different from any woman he ever knew, Derica made plans for her life. Plans she told him very plainly, being a groupie girlfriend, was not part of. In her second year of college, Derica’s plans included going to law school. Kenton thought of all the time they spent talking about their dreams, hopes.
“Kenny, Don’t let the lights and shimmer get you caught up, okay?’
He needed her with him. Derica kept him grounded and level. Why would she leave me now of all times? Most women would give their right arm to have a man making the money he pulled down. Still cordial and friendly when he called her, Derica would give him advice, listen when he needed to vent, but she would never talk about them. He wanted desperately to talk about that. Kenton wanted her back. Kenton hated with all his heart that Derica was talking about dating again. He pushed the thoughts out of his mind knowing they would make him edgy and sad. He didn’t need anything to interfere with his performances this weekend. He was heading to the shower when he heard the knock on his door.
♪♪♪
Armani strode into the room and took a seat. Kenton didn’t like the look on his face. Damn, here it comes. Armani sat thoughtfully for a while before addressing him.
“Just what the hell happened during check-in Kenton?”
Kenton took a deep breath, trying to choose his words to best explain the incident.
“Nothing man, just a big misunderstanding.”
He hoped to skirt the issue and move on. Armani continued to look at him hard.
“Oh really? Then tell me why I got a call and had to come down here and give these people an extra three grand as security.”
Kenton sighed deeply.
“Look, all I asked them to do was give me the suite with the better view. They’re the ones that were rude, and not willing to be flexible.”
Armani caught the curses wanting to leave his lips at the flippant response, taking a breath instead.
“So you figured that gave you the right to curse the desk clerk, break several of their wall decorations, and cause a complete scene at the front desk?”
Kenton couldn’t understand why Armani was always so uptight about things. He was the artist after all. Didn’t he have the right to expect to be treated like the royalty that he was?
“Well I just figured with the money they were being paid, they could at least do that one simple thing.”
Armani wanted to smack him noting the haughtiness remain. This damn kid is living in a fantasy.
“Well, here’s the deal Kenton, this is the absolute last time we will be bailing your ass out.”
Anger picking up, Armani again calmed himself before going on.
“If anything like this happens again, anything at all, we will nullify your contract, and you’ll be out.”
Kenton supposed he should at least act like he was afraid of that possibility, but he wasn’t. He knew they were bluffing. They needed him more than he needed them. He would play along for now, just to appease them.
“I’m sorry Armani, and I swear it won’t happen again.”
Kenton tried to sound as sincere as possible.
Armani knew he was lying. His mind was already working ahead to how they would promote TaShira. This fucking kid is not going to learn until we yank this rug out from under him. He hoped however, the kid would indeed behave long enough for him to reap some of his money back. Armani sighed intensely again, before speaking.
“OK Kenton. Get your shower and come on downstairs. The reporter is here to do your interview.”
“I’ll be ready in thirty minutes.”
Armani nodded getting up to leave him to himself. He made a mental note to have the attorneys begin the contract termination paperwork. He already knew the kid was going to force their hand.
♪♪♪
Sydney Hollingsworth waited downstairs setting up for her interview with Kenton. She was one of the senior writers on staff for Movers & Shakers, the local urban magazine that focused on the up and coming power players in the city. Sydney looked forward to her meeting with Kenton. He was the latest sensation, and she was proud of the fact he helped TMK get on the map nationally, by proxy, bringing more tourism and recognition to their once dying city.
Sydney didn’t know much about the label except that it was black owned and originated here. Her best friend Tarianna worked for them in their administrative offices. She recalled their last conversation.
“Girl you are going to absolutely lose it when you see Armani.”
Sydney laughed.
“You’ve got a serious crush on this man don’t you?”
“Yep, and when you see him, you’ll know why.”
Tarianna laughed after the remark.
Sydney admitted curiosity after thinking about what Tarianna said. She knew Armani was major partner with the label, mid-thirties. A bit too old for you, don’t you think girl? Sydney laughed at the thought. She didn’t let chronological differences interfere with anyone she may have been attracted too. Granted she just turned twenty-seven, she dated on both ends of the spectrum. Younger or older didn’t matter to her at all. It was the personality that counted.
Sydney glanced at her watch. She expected Kenton in about ten minutes. She knew with a certainty she didn’t want to get involved with him. She heard Kenton was quite the womanizer, only out for all he could mount. Sydney chuckled silently at the thought returning to her notepad readying her questions for him. With a few moments to spare, she headed for the ladies room. Sydney checked her make-up and outfit again. She opted for a business casual look, combining the professional black skirt with dressy sandals, soft green sleeveless peasant top. Her shoulder length hair framed her face, auburn coloring accentuating her features. Well I better get back out here before he thinks I’ve stood him up. Sydney chuckled again headed back to her table.
♪♪♪
Five minutes after she returned and gathered her notes, Armani and Kenton appeared before her.
Armani greeted the woman.
“Good morning Sydney.”
He got her name from Tarianna when she called to remind them of the appointment. Sydney looked up at the two men standing and smiled.
“Good morning gentlemen.”
She motioned them to take a seat.
“Thank you both so much, for taking the time to see me.”
Kenton quickly turned on the charm.
“Not a problem for someone as beautiful as you.”
Sydney was completely unimpressed with the supposed sultry look supplied but maintained her composure.
“Tell me a bit about yourself, Kenton.”
He began to talk, Sydney taking the opportunity to take him in fully. Creamy caramel in complexion, nice body, a little on the slim side for her, but very well sculpted. He had bedroom eyes. The kind that would have you undressed and in trouble before you knew it. The perfect teeth were of course whitened, between the kissable, lips. Noting his hair neatly done in a unique cornrow design, it compliment the large diamond studs in both ears.
“So now with all that work, here I am.”
Sydney reined her thoughts in as he finished up. Recording their interview, paying attention wasn’t really necessary on her part.
“Wow, that’s very impressive Kenton.”
She probably wants some of this now. Kenton smugly contemplated the supposition from the friendly demeanor. He looked her over admitting she was a very sexy woman.
“Are you coming to the show tonight?”
She almost laughed aloud at his continued attempts to be seductive.
“No, I actually already have other plans Kenton.”
“Pity,” he replied, licking his lips. “Maybe you can come tomorrow. I’ll make sure you have an excellent seat.”
Sydney supposed she should at least attend one show so she could add that angle to her article.
“Well, I don’t think I have any plans for tomorrow.”
Kenton smiled brightly. I’m going to give you what you really want after the show Saturday night pretty lady.
“Good. It’s settled then. I’ll have your tickets brought to you before you leave today.”
Kenton rose to leave. Sydney knew he had a rehearsal. She was finished with him for now.
“Thanks again Kenton.”
“Don’t thank me yet…”
Truly amused with the arrogance of him, Sydney continued to maintain her professionalism. After he excused himself, she turned her attention to Armani, who sat quietly through her interview with Kenton. This was the person she really wanted to question. Sydney wanted to know all about the label, and more importantly, him.
“Thanks for being so patient.”
Sydney finally took the time to truly look at him.
Armani smiled.
“It wasn’t a problem.”
“So tell me about TMK.”
Sydney sat back waiting on his answer.
Armani began to speak.
Damn, now I understand exactly what Tarianna meant. He was, for lack of a better word, dazzling. She could only describe Armani as distinguished. Creamy bittersweet chocolate complexion, gorgeous brown eyes, definitely kissable lips. Neatly cut hair with nice waves throughout. The manicured mustache, accompanying the three quarter beard made her want to run her fingers through it while he tongued her soulfully. What’s his story? Why was someone as good looking and successful as Armani obviously was, single.
“So we should be expecting other big things from TMK soon, hmm?”
She reeled the naughty thoughts in once Armani finished talking.
He smiled again and she was mesmerized.
“Yes definitely.”
“So tell me about Armani Proctor, the man.”
Sydney had zero problem using her journalistic freedom to delve into his personal life.
He smiled again.
“What exactly do you want to know?”
Armani watched her intently.
His stare unnerved her.
“Well, just what you do for fun. What you want out of life if there’s someone you’re seeing right now. You know, the usual.”
Sydney uttered the reply a lot calmer than she felt.
Armani answered her questions still leaving her in the dark, since he conveniently skipped the question of his availability.
“Thanks again for your time Armani.”
They both rose to leave.
He reached into his suit pocket retrieving the tickets.
“Here are your tickets.”
Armani handed her the set of four.
“Bring some people with you. Your boyfriend, or husband, perhaps?”
Sydney smiled taking the tickets from him.
“I’m sure my girls will be glad to come with me.”
She hoped Armani would catch the inference.
He smiled again.
“I’m looking forward to seeing you Saturday.”
Sydney watched Armani walk away. Forgive me Tarianna. She uttered the unspoken apology, thinking how much she wanted the man who just left her presence.
♪ Tricks for Treats ♪
Wassup baby,” he asked casually when Nichelle answered the phone.
He didn’t want to sound too excited.
“Hey Quinton,” Nichelle said sweetly.
He smiled brightly, pleased that she recognized his voice.
“Hey just wanted to let you know you were on my mind.”
Truth was he thought about her all day. Nichelle was finally giving him a chance. Quinton wanted to make sure she didn’t regret it. He smiled again thinking of the money in his pocket. Now he could do some nice things for her. He heard a few rumors here and there about her, but as far as he was concerned she was cool.
“Well that was sweet of you. Whatcha doing?”
Quinton chuckled.
“Nothing really, just hanging out and watching some TV.”
“Why don’t you come see me then?”
Elated, Quinton took several deep breaths before answering her.
“Yeah baby, that would be cool.”
Quinton really liked Nichelle, definitely wanting to spend time with her. As much as she would allow, he would give.
“I’ll be over in about thirty; that cool?”
“Sure that’s fine, see you soon. Oh bring something for us to drink.”
“No problem baby.”
Damn, this is gonna be alright. He excitedly dressed.
♪♪♪
Nichelle chuckled once she got him off the phone. She knew Quinton was really into her. She liked him well enough, but Nichelle was making plans of her own. She thinks she is so damn much better than us here in hood now, huh. She hatefully reflected of Tarianna, her supposed best friend, who denied Nichelle again when she asked for a small loan. That bitch has the money. What’s fifty bucks? She got ready for Quinton’s visit.
Nichelle normally wouldn’t have given him the time of the day, but he held access to what she needed. What she needed right now was an open door to Khalon. I’ma fix that ho good. Tarianna really was acting the fool lately. She didn’t hang out with her anymore, preferring to spend time with her snooty friend Sydney. I really don’t like that bitch either.
She checked her reflection in the mirror, admiring the sunglow orange pajama’s. Spaghetti strap top, v-cut, it allowed a nice view of her breasts. The matching shorts came dangerously close to revealing her butt. Nichelle chuckled again knowing they would have the desired effect. She would give Quinton a little taste and have him hooked. That way she would still get his money for her needs, but she would also get the access by proxy, to Khalon. Nichelle was going to take miss high and mighty Tarianna down a few pegs.
She knew Khalon didn’t know Tarianna was still messing with Kenton. If he found out there would be hell to pay. He should just leave her tired ass alone and be with me. Nichelle sighed again wistfully. As far as she was concerned Khalon was great people. Good-looking, fine; had money, and from what she heard, good as hell in bed. Maybe I can show him what he’s missing when I get close to him. Nichelle chuckled wickedly as she heard the knock on the door. Taking one last quick glance at herself she went to open the door.
♪♪♪
Viper turned the object taken from Sydney’s apartment over again in his hand.
“Why would she have this?”
He picked up his cell and dialed.
“Yeah?”
Viper made his request known.
“I need you to track something for me, quietly, but fast.”
“Might be hard to track. They keep it on the down low or under lock and key. I’ll call you back in a couple of days and let you know what I find.”
“Thanks.”
He continued to think about it, the thoughts really beginning to bother him. Where would she have gotten it? Viper didn’t want to accept the one glaring possibility staring him in the face. He shook himself turning his thoughts to something else. He needed to deal with Miss Tarianna and her lies. She was still being sweet, dutifully coming over to sleep with him, pretending everything was fine. He had a difficult time most nights being with her, knowing she was still with this other guy. He was still meeting walls, making no headway into who he was. No one on the street seemed to have a clue. She was extremely secretive it seemed. There are at least two people who know. Sydney, he would have to force to tell, and probably hurt her a little. He didn’t want to do that. He genuinely liked her. There was something very familiar to him about her, which made Viper think of the object again.
He shook his head and went back to his plans. He could ask Nichelle. He was pretty sure she would tell him. He caught her a couple of times giving him the once over. Viper knew she was very competitive with Tarianna too, so that made it much easier. He guessed he could sex her if need be. Nichelle wasn’t ugly, he just never thought of her that way. Not like you did Sydney huh. He couldn’t explain it; there was just that aura she held. He really wanted to take her clothes off and be inside her. Viper chuckled thinking how outdone Tarianna would be to know he fantasized about her being Sydney a few times when he was with her. He laughed again heading for his shower. He would try and get in touch with Nichelle later this week. Tomorrow however, he needed to see a man about a mule. Viper laughed again, turned on the water, and got in.
♪♪♪
Kenton laughingly greeted his sister, finally making the time to call her back.
“Hey crazy girl. Sorry it’s taken me so long to get back with you.”
Kendis smiled happy to at last hear from her brother. Nearly a week elapsed since she left Kenton the message.
“It’s okay, Mr. Superstar.”
They both laughed.
“So what’s up?”
Kendis took a deep breath, not sure how she wanted to approach what she needed to tell him.
“Are you coming home anytime soon?”
“As a matter of fact,” Kenton began. “I’m coming home after my show tonight. I was going to surprise you and mama.”
Kendis smiled again; glad that she would get to see him. She would wait until Kenton got home and tell him instead of over the phone.
“Wow, that’s great Kenton. How long are you staying?”
“I have a week without a concert. Get a little rest. So I figured I would spend the time at home with you and mama. I got someone I want you and mama to meet.”
Kenton wanted Tarianna to fly out and spend a couple of days with him and his family. He was really beginning to fall for her. He wanted his mom and sister to meet her. If they approved, then he would go ahead with his plans to ask her to marry him. He was tired of being alone hurting over Derica. Kendis heard the tone growing immediately alarmed. She hoped Kenton wasn’t rebounding, getting involved with someone already.
“Who is it?”
“Someone I met. Someone I’m thinking of spending some time with.”
“Are you in love with her?”
“I think I could be.”
Kendis wasn’t sure she liked that answer, but she didn’t push right now. She knew where this was coming from. It was one of the things she wanted to deal with when he came home.
“OK Kenton, but you’re going to spend some time with us alone for a few days first right,” she asked, hoping he would say yes.
He laughed again.
“Of course.”
Kendis sighed gently, relieved that she would have a chance to talk to Kenton one on one first.
“Hey, don’t tell mama. I want her to be surprised.”
He continued chuckling.
“I won’t. I can’t wait to see you!”
“Well I’ll be there in a few hours, so just hold on.”
“OK, love you and I’ll be waiting up for you.”
“Love you too, and I’ll see you when I get there.”
♪♪♪
Kendis sat reflecting on her conversation with her brother knowing she had to talk to him first thing when he arrived. There were things going on that couldn’t wait. She wasn’t sure how serious Kenton was about this new woman he was seeing. She wanted to make sure he wasn’t just trying to use her as a substitute for Derica. Kenton needed to know all his options before he made that choice. Kendis sighed deeply laying down wanting to get some rest before Kenton arrived.
♪♪♪
Armani had been at home almost a week without seeing Sydney. Bert hit him with the news of Zulu’s impending take over with him furiously trying to obstruct it since. His phone rang. He looked at the ID. This was one of the calls he waited for. Answering the caller they continued to talk for the next thirty-five minutes exchanging information. Both satisfied, they made the verbal agreement, disconnecting.
Armani sat back in his chair smiling. A major soft drink company wanted Kenton to appear in a series of commercials endorsing their product. They agreed upon a substantial advance. The paperwork and check were being sent via courier to his office tomorrow morning. He immediately called Bert sharing the good news. They garnered enough to pay the partners completely off. Now he just needed Bert to make sure they didn’t try and haggle back and forth.
After his conversation with Bert, Armani sat back in his chair reflecting on everything that transpired. Bert assured Armani he would get with his friend Phineas to see to it they accepted the offer. Since they would have the money they would go ahead and pay them now, not wait the forty-five days given. He would call Armani when everything was set. He agreed to let Bert go alone and make the exchange.
Armani knew Bert would handle it. He trusted the old man without question. He sighed deeply recalling all the trouble Zulu caused him. First Sydney, now this bullshit. Armani owed a debt to Zulu. He would make sure it got paid. His former persona stood up, coming out in full bloom. Zulu had no idea the sleeping giant he awakened.
♪♪♪
“Yeah man, what you got for me,” Viper asked when he got the call.
The caller gave him the information he found concerning the object he inquired about. Stunned, he questioned it.
“Are you sure?”
“Yep, got all the proof you need. Meet me at the spot. I’ll give it you.”
“OK man but give me about an hour.”
Viper had another quick stop to make first.
“That’s straight, see you then.”
He sat down on his bed still thinking. This can’t be happening.. He needed to see the proof before he believed it. So what are you gonna do if it’s true? His stomach clenched into a tight knot. He wouldn’t get worked up yet. He would go to his other meeting, worry about this situation afterwards. Viper owed a few debts of his own he was anxious to repay.
His cell rang as he was heading for his first appointment.
“Yeah.”
“Hey baby,” Tarianna purred into the phone.
Viper frowned knowing she was only calling him out of obligation trying to keep up pretenses. Still he wouldn’t rock the boat just yet; all that was already planned.
“Hey girl.”
Tarianna picked up on the tone. Does he suspect something? She began to panic. She didn’t do anything out of the ordinary. She was with him every time he wanted her to be.
“What’s wrong baby? You don’t sound like yourself.”
Viper took a deep breath pulling himself together. He didn’t want her to get suspicious. That would wreck his plans.
“Nothing baby just a hectic day.”
It was the truth, his mind momentarily going back to his earlier conversation.
“Oh, I’m sorry to hear that.”
“Well I was wondering if maybe you would want to come spend the night?”
Viper was surprised. What is she up to? It would be an excellent opportunity for him to find out who this guy was.
“Yeah, that’s cool. I’ll be there in a couple hours.”
“OK, I’ll be waiting for you.”
♪♪♪
Viper remained deep in thought dialing Nichelle’s number. He got it from Quinton once he found out they were seeing each other. What are the odds?
“Hello.”
“Hey Nichelle.”
He needed to get her trust. He needed to feign the hurt boyfriend or she might not tell him what he needed to know.
“Hey Khalon, what’s up?”
“I need your help…”
Viper tried to sound as hurt as possible.
“What’s wrong Khalon?”
Viper almost chuckled aloud at how easy this was going to be.
“I think Tarianna is messing around on me.”
“Why do you think that?”
Viper sighed deeply again and told her the story he concocted, making sure he continued to sound as pathetic as possible.
“Please Nichelle, if you know something, tell me. I love Tarianna and I don’t want to lose her.”
“I dunno Khalon. Tarianna is my friend…”
“I know Nichelle, but this is really important. I know you’ve always been a great friend to her, and I’ve always been cool with you haven’t I?”
“Well, maybe…if you stop by, we could talk I guess.”
Viper sighed quietly. He knew it would come to this. She wanted a piece of him which he was going to have to give to her if he wanted the information.
“I could do that, but not tonight. She’s expecting me.”
Nichelle took the bait from his tone.
“I understand. How about tomorrow? It’s Friday, so you know she’ll probably go out to the club.”
“I can stop by tomorrow night after ten or so.”
“I’ll see you then. Keep your head up Khalon, it will be okay.”
Viper chuckled after he disconnected. He was going to finally get his answer.
♪♪♪
Nichelle was on cloud nine. She had the info he wanted and she couldn’t wait to give it to him. Nichelle chuckled silently as she thought of the payback she was going to administer to her supposed best friend.
She was going to get a piece of Khalon and sink Tarianna’s boat at the same time. Such a high society bitch now huh? Nichelle laughed thinking how stupidly Tarianna still believed she was her friend. She confided all her plans to leave and move to Miami. She laughed again.
“Stupid bitch.”
Nichelle laughed aloud as she grabbed her purse. Quinton was taking her out.
“No nookie for you tonight.”
Nichelle was saving everything for tomorrow and the man she waited almost two years to bed.
♪♪♪
Glad to be home, Kenton smiled looking around at the city. The skyline brilliantly illuminated the sky giving off a soft warm glow of serenity, peace. He hailed a cab giving the address as he sat back relaxing.
Kendis heard the car pull up headed for the front door. She opened it embracing him tightly, happy to at last see him face to face.
“Hey girl,” Kenton replied laughing and twirling her around. “I’m glad to see you too.”
Kendis smiled.
“Hey big head.”
The two of them continued to laugh, the commotion waking their mother.
“What in the world is go—”
She stopped mid-sentence seeing her baby boy standing in her living room.
Eyes filled with tears she reached out embracing him. Kenton found himself becoming emotional as well. They were apart almost a year with his constant traveling. Until now, he didn’t realize how very much he missed her.
“Hey mama. It’s good to be home.”
“Baby it’s so good to have you home. Are you hungry?”
“A sandwich would be real good right now.”
Kenton laughed as she immediately headed for the kitchen. He and Kendis headed for the dining room table.
“So how are you really Kenton?”
This was one person he knew he couldn’t lie to. Kendis knew him like a book and she could read him just as well.
“I’m all right.”
His mother arrived with his sandwich and drink.
They all enjoyed small talk as he ate. After a couple of hours his mother excused herself to bed.
“I’ll have a nice breakfast for you in the morning, son.”
“Sounds good mama. Goodnight, love you.”
He and Kendis were once again alone. He looked at the clock, seeing 4AM.
“Man, I need a nap,” Kenton jokingly said, stretching.
Kendis smiled.
“OK, we’ll talk later today when you get up.”
Picking up on the anxiety, he spoke on it.
“What’s going on Kendis?”
“Nothing that can’t wait until you get some rest.”
“Good night big head.”
Laughing after the quip, Kendis kissed his cheek and headed off to her room.
Kenton smiled.
“Good night sis.”