Zyan Bentley and Tina Hartman were the perfect couple in everyone’s mind, except Zyan’s. Frustrated with Tina’s responsible attitude toward money and their future, Zyan finds solace in the spoiled, but emotionally empty rich girl, Takira Porter. Delusional of his true feelings for her, she promises to free him from his girlfriend’s tyranny in exchange for his faithfulness. Egged on by his equally irresponsible best friend, Romeo Armstrong, he leaves Tina and their modest apartment for the comforts of Takira’s upper end condo. When the gold plated veneer begins to fade, Zyan realizes his mistake, making plans to rectify it and reunite with Tina. Despite apology, regret, and remorse, choices always produce consequences. Broken hearts, broken dreams, broken promises, lead broken people to do broken things. For Zyan, his efforts will be far too little, far too late.
The First Forty-Eight
Staring at her reflection in the mirror Tina exhaled heavily. Monday made its appearance and life went on. She spent the weekend locked up in the apartment, not answering calls or texts, blocking out the world. Today she had to face it. Her life had to go on. Her bills had to be paid and the people in her office didn’t care that her world imploded. Beginning to apply the makeup her mind went to Zyan yet again. He never called or texted. He told you he was done. You’re the fool who thought otherwise. Tears gathering, Tina blinked them away, blotting the one that escaped.
“Pull yourself together.”
Returning to her task she finished the makeup ten minutes later. Walking back into the bedroom she picked the dress up from the bed, unzipping and stepping into it. Simple tapered cut, she accentuated the navy blue offering with the multi-colored prism effect accessories. Stepping over to the dresser she picked up the bottle of Noir spritzing herself. Grabbing the navy pumps she headed for the living room. Dropping the heels into her bag Tina stepped in the kitchen grabbing her lunch. Saying a silent prayer of strength she walked to the front door, picked up the bag and moved outside.
Thankfully the one car they owned was in her name. Zyan was still rebuilding his credit when they made the purchase. She never threw it in his face or held it against him. They were building together after all. Tuh. Yeah? Where is mister builder now? Tina swallowed the hurt the questions brought. Getting inside she situated her cargo before belting herself in and starting the vehicle. Backing out, she turned toward the highway and moved forward. Veering onto the main thoroughfare she turned on the radio. It remained set to the financial channel. Tina exhaled deeply. They weren’t struggling, so why was Zyan so angry about budgeting? They both made decent money. He brought home nearly sixty-four thousand a year. She made a bit more at seventy-eight, but again, she didn’t care about that.
The chatter of stocks, IRA’s, weren’t cutting it for her this morning. Tina immediately tuned the station to Gospel. She needed some inspiration, faith, this morning. How was she supposed to live her life without Zyan in it? She felt like she resided in a perpetual tailspin. You’ve got to pull it together. Agreeing with her common sense, Tina allowed the worship medley to permeate her soul. She found herself singing along, feeling just a modicum stronger. The office park coming into view, she turned into it offering the parking security officer a genuine smile as he greeted her. Finding a premium parking space, she slid the Nissan into it.
Walking over to the elevator inside the parking deck, she pushed the button stepping inside once it opened. Selecting the fifth floor, Tina continued to hum quietly the last song she heard, drawing comfort from it. Stepping off into the hallway, she took another deep breath and walked in the direction of her office. Today she found herself more than a little thankful for that saving grace. She could close her door and shut out the world for her eight hours. Reaching the door moments later, she unlocked it and came inside. Turning on the light she set her bag down. Moving to her right to place her lunch inside the small fridge next to her desk, her eyes fell on the roses. Tears instantly brimmed. Catching them before they fell, Tina angrily strode over picking up the vase. Marching from her office she made her way to the small breakroom, violently throwing the entire presentation into the large trash can. Breathing rough and uneven, she went back to her office, closing the door plopping down in the chair. Eyes skyward, she spoke her request aloud.
“Please God, help me make it through this.”
Hearing two of her coworkers laughing as they walked down the hallway, Tina put on her game face and readied herself to fake it through the day.
●●●
Smiling into the mug she held, Takira enjoyed the sunrise over the city. While most of the people she knew dreaded Monday, she loved it. This one she especially held dear. This was the first Monday of the rest of their lives together. Takira couldn’t describe the happiness she felt when Zyan told her he was finally leaving his girlfriend to be with her permanently. Takira tried to never use the woman’s name, though she knew it well. Zyan’s past would never overshadow what they shared now. She felt a smidgen of remorse for dating and sleeping with the man while he continued to live with the other woman. At the end of the day though, she wasn’t the one who made the commitment. What makes you think he won’t cheat on you too?
“Because I’m all he needs in every way.”
The lithe expel of breath left her after the statement. She sipped the Passionfruit tea enjoying the blended flavors as the warmth cascaded down her throat. Closing her eyes inhaling deeply, her mind wandered to the first time she saw Zyan in the club. A regular at Brixx, she and her girl Alex, short for Alexandria, knew they were looking like the millions they were worth when they stepped inside. Taking their usual seats in VIP, Takira began looking over the club’s offerings. When she spotted him with his two friends he took her breath away. The imagery instantly conjured a Harlequin romance cover with a touch of Omega Psi Phi. At the exact moment her eyes devoured him, he smiled. That was it. Takira knew she had to meet him. Had to talk to him. Had to feel his perfect lips as he kissed her.
Giving Alexandria a look, they both rose making their way toward the bar where the three men stood, oblivious they were being watched. Arriving they strategically placed themselves near enough to be noticed. The friend saw them first, looking them both over appreciatively. Alex entertained him to a degree while Takira zeroed in on the one she wanted. Noticing, she saw his friend nudge him slightly causing him to turn around and their eyes to meet.
“Love at first sight.”
Chuckling as she finished the tea, Takira turned to take the cup back into the kitchen. Passing through the condo the silence made her frown somewhat.
“Alexa, play my love songs playlist.”
“Playing Love, Sex, and Lust, playlist.”
Giggling again at the name she gave the playlist, Takira dropped the mug off in the sink. Her mind turned to her day and errands she had. Zyan left earlier this morning headed to work. She exhaled evenly thinking of the conversation last night. She hoped he heard her and understood she meant what she said. It’s going to take him some time. Don’t forget what he just went through. Takira nodded agreeing with her mind’s assessment. Deciding they both needed to unwind a bit, she picked up her cell from the marble countertop. Finding what she sought, she dialed the number.
“Good morning Takira. How are you?”
“Good morning Tempest. I need you to book a quick getaway for the weekend.”
“Alright, destination? Number of days?”
“Let’s do something simple since it will only be a long weekend. Vegas.”
“Good choice. So Friday through Monday?”
“Yes, early flights Friday, midafternoon Monday for the return.”
“Sounds good. How many people?”
“Two. Myself and my boyfriend.”
“Okay, so one room. King bed?”
“Yes, but let’s do a suite. I like the MGM Grand.”
“Got it. Give me a few minutes and I’ll email you all the information. Did you plan to fly commercial or use your father’s jet?”
“Commercial this time, first class of course.”
“Got it. Okay, hit you up in a few.”
Hanging up, Takira smiled happily. Zyan would be so surprised. They would enjoy the weekend living it up and letting loose. My baby deserves this. The joyous mood lingering she headed upstairs to the bedroom to dress. She had a bit of shopping to do before stopping by the office and seeing her father. She would call Alex and connect for lunch. Lastly, she reminded herself to be home by 4PM so she could have dinner ready and properly greet her man when he got home at six.
●●●
The titillating scents of bacon filtered through the house finding Dezarae as she put the finishing touches on her makeup. Her stomach immediately let her know it wanted nothing more than to sample the teasing scents the nose and brain detected presently. She laughed aloud at the rumbling, walking into her room to get dressed. Putting on the scrubs, socks and shoes, she rose headed toward the kitchen. Cellphone in hand she texted Tina another time. She hadn’t heard from her all weekend, even after leaving her two voicemails. That’s not like her. Deciding to call this time, she pushed the number for Tina on speed dial. It connected ringing three times. She expected the voicemail again, readying herself to give her brother’s girlfriend the blues for ditching her. Instead Tina’s voice filtered into her atmosphere, bringing the smile to her face.
“Hey girl! How are you just gonna ditch me this weekend? We were supposed to hit the flea market.”
“Hey Dezarae.”
Hearing something in her voice, fully not liking the tone, the woman frowned marginally. What had her brother done now? She knew things were a bit strained for the last couple of weeks having heard them arguing the last time she stopped over at their place.
“What’s wrong Tina? What did Zyan do?”
The loud exhalation came from the woman, the silence lingering longer than Dezarae liked. Opening her mouth she pushed once more to get Tina to tell her what was going on. Having made it as far as the den, she plopped down on the overstuffed sofa not wanting her mother to hear the conversation.
“Tina? Spit it out. I know that’s my brother, but you’re my girl. You know that. Tell me.”
Another short exhalation and she heard the sniffling. It was bad this time. Dammit Zyan what did you do to her? Dezarae loved her brother but he could be foolish and impetuous at times. He could also be mean spirited, saying hurtful things to not only Tina, but herself and even their mother. She normally cursed him out and kept it moving. He always apologized, but like she told him numerous times, he needed therapy to work out his issues. Reeling her mind back in, she gave Tina her full attention.
“Tina, if you don’t tell me what’s up, I’m going to be at your job in the next forty-minutes.”
“I didn’t call you back because I didn’t want to talk to anybody.”
“Okay, I get that, but I know Zyan did something, so what is it?”
“Dezarae….”
“Tell me Tina.”
“He moved out.”
“Zyan? Zyan moved out? What the hell? Where did he go? What….”
“I don’t know where he went, Dezarae. He told me he was done with us. It had run its course for him, and he left.”
“Are you freaking kidding me? Oh Tina, girl I’m so sorry.”
“Thanks.”
“Okay, but I want to see you. I need to know for myself you’re good. I’m stopping by after work. Bringing us some food, and we’ll make margaritas.”
“I don’t —-”
“I’ll be there Tina, okay? I’ll text you through the day so you better answer.”
She heard the slight titter, making her feel just a bit better.
“Okay.”
“Alright then. Love you girl, try and have a good day.”
“Thanks Dezarae, tell Ms. Odessa hello.”
“I will.”
Touching the end button on the cellphone, Dezarae continued to breathe deeply. The fury behind her eyelids threatened to overwhelm her. What the hell was her brother thinking? What bitch is he out here screwing? She wanted to beat the hell out of Zyan presently. Tina was absolutely amazing. She and her mother fell in love with the woman as soon as Zyan introduced them. Warm and genuine, she immediately took to them forming a sincere bond. As angry as she was, Dezarae had no plans of letting Tina drift away from them. She didn’t care who this new chick was, Tina was the only future sister-in-law she would ever entertain or claim. Putting on her game face, Dezarae rose going into the kitchen greeting her mother.
“Hey Ma. Did you make me a sandwich to go?”
“Yes, I made your lunch too.”
“Thanks Ma. I’ma be late tonight. Gonna stop and see Tina.”
“Oh good. I missed her this weekend.”
“Yeah, she wasn’t feeling good. She said to tell you hello though.”
“Oh okay.”
“I hafta go Ma, talk to you later. Love you.”
“Love you too honey.”
Dezarae walked out of the backdoor headed to her car, parked behind the house.
Odessa watched until she got in, starting it and driving around to the street in front of them. Calmly walking over to the stove she made her own plate. Sitting down at the kitchen table, she picked up the cell phone laying on it.
“Hey Ma.”
“Hey Zyan.”
“What’s up? You okay? Dezarae?”
“Mmhmm.”
“Okay.”
“I need you to come by the house when you get off.”
“Um, I should be able to do that. You need me to bring something?”
“Only you.”
“Okay. Is something wrong Ma? You sound funny.”
“I’ll see you when you get here son. Love you.”
Disconnecting without his response Odessa began to eat her breakfast. When Zyan arrived this afternoon, he better have one hell of a good reason for what she overheard between Dezarae and Tina this morning.
Big Joker/Little Joker
Romeo checked himself in the mirror smiling back at his reflection. Today he hoped to hook up with his own sugar mama. Alexandria was Takira’s best friend. Definitely cute, she was rich too. Right now that’s all that mattered to him. With three baby mama’s and a possible fourth on the way, Romeo needed another source of money. His paychecks got shorter and shorter each pay day. That’s why you need to strap up with all these chicks. Grunting, he opened the dresser drawer he stood before, putting four condoms in his pocket. He planned to put it down tonight and have Alexandria’s nose wide open. Why should Zyan be the only one enjoying the good life? He and Takira were always traveling. They just came back from Barbados two weeks ago, heading to Canada this coming weekend.
“Man why are you still working? If I had a chick who told me to just hang out and travel, my ass would.”
“Nah, I like having my own money. Don’t get me wrong, I enjoy everything Takira offers but you know, just a me thing.”
“Not me. I’m getting all I can get.”
Chortling he turned and headed out of the apartment. He stopped by the carwash earlier letting them detail the late model Chevy bringing out the showroom quality of the vehicle anew. Gonna get a new whip when I put this great sex on Alexandria. Laughing full out he got in and started the car, turning up the sound system. Romeo thought of his two friends. Isaiah had always been way too serious for him, but he was good people. He’s all booed up with this chick I see. The man declined their last boys’ night out saying he already had plans. Thankfully Takira was a down chick who didn’t mind Zyan hanging out. Not if he was still with that square ass Tina. Romeo thought about his part in breaking them up. Knowing Zyan was mostly faithful, he pushed the attraction between him and Takira. He covered for him getting him out of the house to meet with her, encouraging him to have sex with the woman after their third get together. Look how good that turned out. Turning onto the highway he continued making his way to the restaurant.
The further he drove, the swankier the presentation grew. This was the monied side of the city. Real money, not that barely making six figures money so many tried to perpetrate. “What’s your deal with Tina? Why are you always so down on the woman?” Romeo frowned recalling the question from Isaiah as they hung out one night at the beginning of Zyan’s relationship. He brushed it off, but he never forgot it. Okay so why? Romeo’s face set into the deep scowl recalling meeting the woman for the first time. She was ordering at their favorite fish spot on the strip. Zyan accompanied him, busy looking at the menu. Preparing to step to her, his friend noticed, making a remark. Tina gathered her order turning to leave the spot when Zyan said hello. Returning the greeting the two began to talk, much to Romeo’s chagrin. So you’re mad at the woman because she chose Zyan, not even knowing you wanted to talk to her? It didn’t make sense and he admitted that, but it was how he felt. Zyan leaving the woman was her just reward in his mind.
Seeing his turn he smoothly pulled up to the valet stand. Getting out he handed the man the keys, taking his ticket. Normally he wouldn’t dream of wasting twenty-five bucks for parking, but today wasn’t just any day. His delivery job paid decent enough. Yeah, if you don’t have four kids coming out of it. Romeo grunted. He came up short here too compared to his friends. Zyan and Isaiah made good money doing their IT thing. He didn’t do anything past high school. Graduating was hard enough. He hated being cooped up in a room. Hated teachers looking down on him. He landed the job at the meat delivery company right out of high school. The job paid for his CDL and he began driving tractor-trailers. That was short-lived when his delivery was late or short one too many times. Now he worked for the local Chevy dealership as a parts delivery driver. Your luck is about to change man. If he couldn’t do anything else, Romeo could screw well.
Stepping into the restaurant the hostess greeted him. Explaining he was meeting Takira, the woman smiled advising him to follow her. Romeo subconsciously ran his hand over the waves in his head. A quick run across his face, he switched his game to on. Arriving at the table Takira smiled greeting him. Romeo took the seat offered, giving Zyan dap across the table.
“Romeo, this is my friend Alexandria.”
“Hello beautiful.”
The woman chuckled and Romeo’s confidence grew. The server came over as they began to order. Knowing Takira was paying for the meal, he ordered without hesitation. Turning his attention to Alexandria after giving his request, he began laying the trap.
“Are you single beautiful?”
“Yes. You?”
“I am.”
“Hmph, what do you do Romeo?”
“I work at a car dealership.”
“Oh, a salesperson.”
“Pretty much.”
“Very cool.”
“Why is a woman as beautiful as you still single?”
Alexandria shrugged, flipping her hair over her shoulder. Picking up the water she sipped it taking him in. Pleased with the presentation she decided to put the cards on the table. Unlike Takira, Alexandria viewed men as toys to be played with then discarded once she was done. She knew Romeo’s type. He was looking for a meal ticket. She smiled into the glass preparing to set it down. She wasn’t averse to financing him for a bit if he could lay it down in the bedroom and stay in his place.
“Because I know what I want. Most men can’t deal with that.”
“You haven’t met the right man then.”
She smirked, recognizing every play as it unfolded. Takira and Zyan were deeply involved in their own conversation, exchanging kisses intermittently. Never one to dance around it, Alexandria went for the kill.
“Are you that man Romeo? Can you make miss kitty purr, give me unforgettable orgasms?”
The surprise showed on his face as he quickly recovered the cocky smile replacing it. Leaning close to her lips almost touching hers, eyes staring deeply, he answered her question.
“Without a doubt beautiful Alexandria. I can give you all you’ve been missing.”
Reaching under the table, she wrapped her hand around the slowly waking appendage, biting her lip at the presentation.
“You should come home with me after we eat.”
“I definitely should.”
Alexandria giggled, removing her hand as their food arrived and everyone turned their attention to each other with less sexually charged conversation. Romeo smiled internally thinking of all the things he planned to do to Alexandria when he got her naked. His financial future depended on it. He was more than determined not to fail.
●●●
Laughing they exited the ice cream shop, treats in hand headed for the bench outside. The movie had been excellent, as was the meal before they went to see it. Tina was glad Leslie talked her into getting out of the house tonight. The melancholy began sinking in at the realization of three plus months separation. Stop saying separation. You two are fully broken up. Tina corrected herself shoving another spoon of ice cream into her mouth.
“So, how are things coming with you and Nsar?”
Tina swallowed her ice cream giggling at Leslie’s facial expression.
“We’re friends Leslie. The man hasn’t said anything about dating me.”
“Uh huh, but he’s taken you out several times?”
“We went bowling a couple of times, to the park and hung out.”
“Ugh you both are getting on my nerves. He likes you. You like him too, don’t you?”
“He’s a nice man, Leslie.”
Leslie shook her head going back to her own treat. The questions set Tina’s mind awhirl. There was definitely tension between them. Nsar always carried himself as the consummate gentleman when they went out. They enjoyed really great conversations, deep and thought provoking. Tina found they had quite a bit in common as far as literature, music and arts. He also was one of the few people she found with a sense of humor as dry as her own. Still, he never pushed for anything further. No attempts to kiss her. No subtle remarks. He seemed fully content to be her friend. Are you content with that? Tina frowned somewhat. That wasn’t her call. On cue her phone vibrated. Looking at the message she saw his name. They exchanged numbers before the first bowling excursion. Reading it, she smiled. ‘I’m experimenting with stuffed chicken breasts tomorrow night. Will you be my guinea pig?’ Laughing she texted him back asking what time she should be there.
Putting the phone down she looked up to find Leslie watching her, impish grin on her face.
“I don’t have to ask who that was.”
“No, you don’t.”
“And?”
Tina laughed, another spoon of ice cream in her mouth to delay responding. Dragging it out dramatically she swallowed, Leslie giving her the playful look of death presently.
“He invited me to dinner tomorrow.”
“Nice. Where this time?”
“His place.”
Leslie strangled on her ice cream, grabbing the bottled water to wash it down. Gathering herself, she set about the interrogation anew.
“His place? Mmm, sounds like he’s finally ready to make that move.”
“Stop it, Leslie. The man cooks. I’ve known that for a while.”
“Uh huh. Well, you be ready. I know it’s been a minute, so yeah.”
Tina blushed, causing Leslie to laugh even harder. She prayed that wasn’t what Nsar had in mind. While she was slowly coming around to the idea of being with someone other than Zyan, she wasn’t ready to have sex with him.
“We aren’t doing that Leslie, sheesh. Do I need to call Isaiah? Horny self!”
They both laughed hardily at the statement. Tina was happy for her friends. Isaiah had always been good to her. Right after Zyan left, he checked on her daily. Brought her food, ran small errands. She would be eternally grateful to him for that kindness. He and Leslie seemed to be growing more serious by the day. Maybe she’ll be the one. Smiling at the thought, Tina teased her more.
“I have his number, I mean, because you are just acting up ma’am.”
Leslie continued to laugh, tears forming.
“No, I’m fine in that department thank you very much.”
“Ohhhhh, so Isaiah HAS been laying pipe regularly.”
“Shut up Tina!”
The frivolity continued as they rose and threw away their containers. Heading to the car, Tina waited at the passenger side. They took turns driving when they hung out. Suddenly feeling eyes Tina took in her surroundings. She didn’t see anything out of the ordinary, yet the feeling wouldn’t leave. Dismissing it, she opened the car door after Leslie unlocked it, climbing inside. Pulling away from the curb they began anew teasing each other about romantic partners and sexual necessities. The apartment complex came up quickly they were having so much fun. Pulling into the parking space, Leslie regarded her.
“Listen Tina, you know I’m just teasing you. Take your time with Nsar.”
“I know girl, and I plan too.”
Opening the door she got out and headed toward the front door. Nights like this Tina was happy for the ground floor unit. Opening the door, she waved goodbye to Leslie. She saw her friend back out and head down the street before closing and locking the door, mind on tomorrow night and what she really felt about Nsar.
●●●
This ain’t the bakery. Zyan grunted eyes never leaving the now closed door. He spotted Tina and the woman walking down main street as he headed for the bakery. Takira wanted these special raspberry tarts she swore no one could make better. Feeling somewhat cooped up, he volunteered to go pick them up. Why are you sitting outside this woman’s place? She seemed happy. She really looked great. They ran into each other a few more times at the club. Twice when she was with Dezarae, once with the woman he saw her with tonight. Zyan never met her coworkers, so he wasn’t sure if the woman was one. He only followed them to make sure Tina was okay. Yeah right. She still wouldn’t speak to him. He tried to engage her in conversation at Brixx when he came with just Romeo and Isaiah. She ignored him, doing the same to Romeo, speaking to Isaiah. Okay so she’s home, in the house, doing fine. Why are you still sitting here? Zyan swallowed hard, not liking the answer coming to mind.
He missed her. Too bad. You’re where you said you wanted to be. Exhaling aloud, Zyan began to regret the words said, the actions taken. Takira was cool. No doubt his life improved vastly being with her, there was an empty space inside him. Money, trips, extravagance, didn’t fill it anymore. You made your bed. Takira’s not going anywhere. Don’t be stupid and mess up your goldmine. Zyan ran a hand over his face. He was meeting her father in the next couple of days. You gotta convince the old man. That’s the key to the kingdom. Problem was, he began having second thoughts if that’s what he really wanted. He warred with himself about getting out going to the door. She won’t open it. Zyan didn’t believe that. Tina wasn’t cold hearted. What would he say to her though? The things leaving his mouth were pretty heartless when he moved out. Don’t step to the woman if you’re not ready to give up Takira and that lifestyle. Agreeing with his conscience, he dismissed the thoughts.
He thought she saw him at the ice cream shop. She looked right at him. The car. Zyan nodded unconsciously. He drove Takira’s Benz. Tina had never seen the vehicle. Takira wanted to buy him a car, which he finally agreed too. They were headed to the lot tomorrow. He wanted the Maserati sportster. She never flinched assuring him he could have whatever he desired. And you wanna mess that up to go back to budgets? The short sigh left his lips. It wasn’t all bad with Tina. Not by a long shot. They had a lot of great memories, great fun, all without the extra fanfare. Not your life anymore man. Wake up. The last thoughts sounded very much like Romeo in his head. He fleetingly wondered if the man would make headway with Alexandria. She wasn’t Takira, but his friend would find that out. A light flickered on in the apartment garnering his attention anew. He saw the shadow pass, recognizing it. Moments later he saw her come to the window drawing the heavier panels in front of the sheers. Zyan took her in emotions in chaos. The visual lasted all of forty seconds maybe, searing it into his mind’s eye. Glancing at the clock, he reluctantly started the car heading back to the bakery. Swallowing hard he dismissed all the thoughts and feelings to momentary insecurity. Chill man, Takira worships you. No worries on this end. The only thing you should be thinking about is how you’re going to customize that new whip. Smiling, Zyan picked up his speed internally pledging to make his new life work.