Questions & Answers II

"Ty, why does he stay in this big ass house alone?"

"He doesn't, you're here and I'm here."

The maid answered as Nicki sat in the kitchen eating her home cooked breakfast. Her and Ty had become close over the two weeks, Safaree had been gone. Ty even accompanied her on her trip to Philly. She had a show there for fifteen Guys, who were celebrating a win. She looked up when Ty began talking again in his flat voice as if he was remembering an event and telling it to her right out of the scene.

"He hasn't and isn't always cold."

"Could of fooled me.."

"He obviously is, I look at how he is with you... His sister was you at one point until she died."

"Huh?"

"A dancer. She danced. Until one day... She was found in her boyfriend's trunk."

"Is that why he didn't want to do business with... Me?"

"That and he really wasn't looking for an investment. There's so much you don't know about him."

"Can you tell me? He obviously isn't going to tell me."

"Secrets are how this should remain."

"Why? Why is he so secretive?"

"The same reason you are." He stated matter-of-factly. He grabbed her plate that had a small amount of waffle and eggs on it, but she had swallowed the turkey bacon whole. She sat back in her chair and sighed looking over at him. He was right, she was just as secretive as him. She still had her money in the suitcases underneath the bed and didn't allow any of maids to clean her room, she did it herself. 

"Back to your question, There's a story behind this home. One, I believe he should tell you."

"Was it for his ex fiancé?"

She questioned watching him closely, but he shook his head. He chuckled even. He turned to face her as he placed the dried dish back in it's place. He walked over to her and sat next to her. He grabbed her hand and squeezed it gently before sighing. He didn't understand why she wanted to know so much about him that she could easily find out just by exploring the house, but he wouldn't tell her that and get themselves in trouble.

"She lives in the home he bought her, this isn't it."

"He still loves her?"

"That I couldn't tell you."

He stated getting up. She frowned wanting to know everything that Safaree wouldn't tell her. She didn't even really understand his family business and why he was a lawyer instead of taking what was rightfully his. She stood up and grabbed her keys off the table and headed for the door. She was going to get answers, some way and some how. The sun was on full blast as she stepped outside before realizing she didn't have her car anymore. She groaned and mumbled to herself. Why had she not gotten another car? She turned and jumped as Ty stood in the door way with a smirk on his small slim face. He moved to the side then headed towards the garage.

"Can't go anywhere without a ride. Did you open the envelope?"

"No, I don't want..."

"Open it."

He stated looking at her blankly. She grabbed it out of her pocket and slowly opened the seal not to mess it up. She opened it to three cards. She looked up then back down, then up again confused. Ty took the card from her and pulled out the first card, that had her name on it. It was a bank card, how did he get all of her info to open an account in her name? He pulled out another one, which was the gate key, but it had a gold strip across the back which gave her access to all the rooms in the house. She beamed as Ty handed her the key and the bank card. He lastly, pulled out another card and this time pulled her behind him to the safe box near the garage. He put the key in and the safe opened to six pairs of car keys. He pulled out the one with the note and handed it to her before discreetly putting the last key into his pocket. He shut the door back and watched as her eyes roamed over the note.

"I know you miss you Pink Car, but I got you something better... Go to the garage and check it out."

She read out loud before grabbing the knob and pulling the door open. In the garage next to his Black BMW, Red Drop Top and Red Benz sat a Pink Infiniti G35 and a Pink Infiniti G37. She squealed and ran up to the cars and touched them both. The pink on these cars were much more beautiful than the pink that was on her old car. She grabbed the door of the G37 and got in. She touched the black on black interior and beamed even more. She pulled out her phone and dialed him.

"Hello, Safaree Samuels speaking..."

"Samuels? I like it.. I'm guessing that's your real name?"

She quizzed. He excused himself from the meeting before speaking to her.

"Yes, but what do you want?"

"Thank you... For the cars."

"You're welcome, but I'm in a meeting."

"You shouldn't put business before family and friends.. What if..."

She looked at the phone that was now hung up. She felt a wave of sadness come over her. What if he was doing this for his family just like her? Maybe that's why he never brought them around. She shook it off and hit the button for the garage to go up then sped down the driveway and out of the gate.

Nicki was seated across from Nan, who had her arms across her chest. Nicki was more blunt with Nan when it came to him and Nan was even more blunt when she turned her down. Nan wasn't stupid and she knew her boundaries when it came to his private life, if he wanted you there.. You'd be there. Nicki obviously wasn't mature enough to be there and Nan could tell that she wasn't her true self because she could see the fire growing it her, the true Onika. Nan would wait on it just like Safaree was.

"Why not, Nan? How am I suppose to keep living like this?"

"Don't... Be as blunt with him as you are being with me." She shrugged staring across the table. "If you thought about it, you're closer to him than you think."

"I'm really.... Not."

"You live  in his house, he gave you keys, he bought you cars, he let you meet me and he even told you a little about himself... You're closer than you think."

"Nan, that's not enough.."

"Is it because you love him? Or is it because he isn't like Webb, an open book of lies?"

She questioned looking over Nicki. Nicki sat back in the chair and thought about it. She didn't know why she was exactly, so worried about him, but she knew she didn't love him. He had done nothing for her that was love. It felt like she was nothing but business. He had even denied their friendship after he said they were. He could be a liar just like Webb, they are best friends.

"Nan.. I don't love Safaree... He's just intriguing but difficult. How do I be around a man, who treats me like a deal and not a person? Say.. He's being nice to me..."

"Love comes in all strengths. Love doesn't have to be an intimate thing, it could be casual and friendly... Do you know that?"

She asked peering over the rim of her glasses at her. She knew Safaree and it was love that guided him to do everything that he was doing. It wasn't a deep love, it was friendly as if he finally had someone to take care of and mold. He wanted nothing more than to help her, help herself without sex being involved and Nicki couldn't see that. Friendship to Nicki turned quickly into a love affair because she was searching for love through intimate affairs. Nicki shook her head, ignorantly. She didn't know and she wouldn't liewing so.

"Don't be blind all your life to love... The simplest things can be love and the coldest people can love the hardest."

"Nan, I just have one question that I need an answer to." She quietly asked not looking up at her. Nan grabbed her face and made her look up at her.

"Ask me and I'll be totally honest."

"Does he not love his family or do they not love him?"

"Blood is thicker than water.... But water is 75% of the body and 50% of blood."

"Huh?"

"People can always come between you and your family, not just people, but things... He doesn't not love them and they don't not love him, but people have different outlooks in life. Do you understand?"

"Kind of..."

"Simply like this, Death put a wedge between them. He buried his head in school and taking over the family business that was left in his name, but his mother wanted to sell it and he wouldn't. Now, they don't talk, but he still keeps in touch with his sisters and neices."

"OH, what about his dead sister?"

"His half-sister? He barely knew her, but she died around the same time as their father."

She spoke. She sensed that she had already been told that bit of info, so there was no use in hiding the detail. She kissed Nicki's cheeks then left out the room. Nicki needed time and she could tell by the look on her face. Nan made her way to the back of the store and called Safaree. She had to let him know about this and to talk him into doing something about it.

Nicki was surprised to see him on the porch when she got there. He was in his shorts with no shirt on. He walked down the stairs in his house shoes and over to her car. His chest was nice and she couldn't help, but stare as she stepped out. He chuckled at her obvious stare then made his chest bounce causing her to look up at him then she too laughed.

"I hear you been asking about my past.."

He stated not beating around the bush. Ty came out and got into the car and parked it in the garage. She looked away from the serious look on his face. He sat on the porch and stared at her as she just stood there. The silence was comfortable as they both sat in their thoughts until he began speaking again.

"I'll answer you, if you answer me."

"Deal." She stated excitedly as she sat next to him.

"What do you want to know?"

"What's your real name?"

"Safaree Lloyd Samuels, yours?"

"Onika Tanya Maraj. I like your name.. It's different."

"Yours is beautiful..."

"Do you think I'm beautiful?" She asked bluntly looking over at him.

"Yeah, you remind me of my sisters... Sometimes."

"Why don't you have pictures of them in your home?"

"This isn't where I want to stay and build a home, a family. Why did you move in with Webb?"

"I loved him, I still do... I miss him." She stated quietly. "What happen, with your ex-fiancé?"

"I told you.."

"You told me the summary of it." He sighed then looked at her. 

"She cheated on me as soon as she got in college. She told me, but it still hurt... She continued to do so until I came to visit her and shit hit the fan.. I caught her in bed with another guy. She begged me to come back, but I couldn't look at her without wanting to hurt something. After months of begging, she finally gave up, I got the deed to the house and told her, she can do whatever with it and that's that."

"Do you still love her?"

"I have love for her.. But hoes can't be loved." He stated staring out at the setting sun. "You going back to Webb?"

"I think about it... I get lonely at night and ache for him, but I know..."

"He's moved on."

"I know."

"Then why still want him?"

"He's the only thing I know right now. I'm not a popcorn ho... I've only been with three guys in my twenty years of living."

"I'm twenty-two."

"Really? I thought you were like twenty five."

"I just turned twenty-two last week."

"What?"

"July 4th."

"Wow? And you weren't going to say anything..."

"My birthday isn't important anymore... I have everything I want.."

"You don't want a wife & kids?"

"Some day, what about you?"

"Yeah, I want to give my husband life."

"Why do you want to know me? My personal life?"

"I admire you. Your strength, I've never had a guy friend, so strong and level headed. You're different.. Do you really love me?"

She asked lowly, but he had heard her. He could tell that she had been wanting to ask him, but she didn't know how. He thought this way was cute. It showed her boldness, but yet her soft side. He looked over at her as he thought about it and how to be careful with her feelings. He didn't want to lead her on and he didn't want to lie to her.

"I do, but merely as my friend. I never lied to Nan about you being my friend. It's only been two months since your move in, but you've brung out a side in me that I thought was dead.. I'm comfortable with you around. You make coming here, to this empty house... Worth it."

"Nan told me that you loved me, I thought she was lying. Secret?"

"Shoot."

"I love you too. You make me feel safe even when you're down the hall. Just to know you love me, for me and there's no sex involved... Makes me like you even more. Friends?"

"Friends."

He smiled and embraced her as she held out her arms. He swooped her up and they walked through the house and into the living room where above the fireplace was a picture of him and his family and on the mantle were pictures of her dancing and at the spa and other places. She smiled and squeezed tightly around his neck. They both sat on the sofa and talked. They talked about everything and anything that came to mind. It was as if they were learning each other again.

Questions & Answers

Safaree sat on the side of the stage as Nicki made her exit. It was their first week in Atlanta and they have made it through the week with ease. Nicki even went to class to learn how to belly dance because she had fallen in love with the Black Satin outfit in Nan's custome shop. Nan made all of her outfits in two weeks, enough for three weeks. Of course, she had help but all the designs were hers and all her employees were in the US. Her fabrics were of the best England fabric and styles. She never let her future daughter-in-law go out in anything cheap. Even tho, Safaree and Nicki didn't know they had a connection, she did.

"You looked great out there. You can finally go home tomorrow and be with your boyfriend."

"If only I had a boyfriend to go to, I would, but I'm going to see my family."

"Family?"

"Yeah, don't you have one? Everyone... Has family."

He shrugged then walked off the side of the stage as she walked behind him in her Pink Genie Outfit. She had become very lively and colorful in the past week since she had moved in with him. Just being in his home, made her excited. He had even let her put a picture of herself up on the wall in her room. He secretly enjoyed her being there, but he wouldn't let her know that. Having someone else there constantly, made it less lonely there. She grabbed his hand and held it as they made their way down the stairs. He liked her, but he viewed her as a little sister. 

"We should go to the bar and have drinks."

"We should stay inside and pack up to head home."

"We're going out and that's final." She stated squeezing his hand a little tighter as she pulled him along the back exit. They hadn't done anything fun and she thought it'd been fun to get him out of the hotel.

Hours later, she was dressed in a pair of ripped jeans and a pink tank top. She had on pink heels to match. Her hair was up in a large bun with two Chinese sticks in it. She smiled at her reflection then turned around to grab her black purse and black jacket. She walked over to the joint door and knocked on it. To which, she got no answer. She began to knock some more and still no answer. She finally decided to just walk in. She opened the door and Nan was seated in a chair with her feet up next to him in the same position. She giggled at the image before her. It was the cutest thing.

"You guys are cute."

"Join us."

Nan replied pointing to the other chair. She figured that this had already been planned, so she joined in with them late. She looked at them and saw no similarity between the two and wondered why he called her Nan. She sat back as an Asian lady came in and removed her shoes. She rubbed her feet for a few minutes then placed them in the water and let the jets massage her feet from every angle.

"I know you didn't really want to go out on those dancing feet."

"I did, but this is much better."

"I know it is. My Grandson believes you been working hard and what are friends for?"

"Friends?"

She questioned looking over at him. He smirked then cleared his throat looking over at her.

"We are friends, aren't we Onika?"

"I mean, yeah... Sure."

She answered trying to mask her excitement. She had gotten his friendship within the first week of them working together. She felt like dancing, but the massage on her feet felt wonderful. She reached over and squeezed his hand. He laughed as she squealed like a child. It had been awhile, since she had a genuine guy friend, any friend as of a matter of fact. She let it go then stared over at him as if he were the best person in her world right then. Nan smiled seeing the admiration beaming from Nicki. Nan decided to make an exit since it was twelve in the morning.

"I'll catch you kids in the morning and don't stay up too late... We got a flight to catch."

She mouth off as she walked towards the door of the hotel. After she left, they both sat in an awkward silence for a few minutes until Nicki looked over at him and saw that he was staring down at his phone. She got up from her chair and stood over his shoulder to see an eldly woman, two younger women, a man and two little girls.

"Is that your family? They're handsome."

"Thanks."

"I didn't read you for a father..."

"I'm not.. That's my mother, two sisters, my neices and brother-in-law."

"Why don't you have pictures of them up in your house?"

"I don't know, why do you care? Did you have pictures of your family in your house?"

"No... But..."

"Because it isn't your house to decorate."

"Huh?"

"I guess you thought that Webb was a family man?"

"He is... We were going..."

"To get married, have his kids and move to wherever you want to go, right?"

"Yeah." She mumbled looking away from him. She looked back up as he burst out into laughter. She hated being laughed at especially by him. It was as if he knew everything, she didn't know and that made her upset. She began to walk away when she felt a pull on her arm and looked up at the apologetic look on his face,

"I hate to see you getting played, but it's funny. You're like a little sister to me and it's just jokes. Don't be so serious."

"How do you know he really doesn't love me?"

"Has he given you the key to his place? Has be made room for you inside his home? Has he taken you anywhere outside of New York and what you're familiar with? If most of the answers are no, then..."

"I really love him, it's just taking him some time, to come around. He's even supporting my dream now..."

"Now? What about when you're traveling the world and have no time for him? I know Webb, that's my best friend."

"I've known him for two year and some months and you've never been around... Until now.. And you know Dip.. So where do you hide out?"

"I'm a business man and lawyer, I can't be knowingly hanging out with a Drug Dealer, daily and it not be suspicious and as Far as Dip, I'm always around her.. She's my partner.. Who do you think flips her money for her?"

He raised an eyebrow at her.

"But you're one to question me. You've never been brought up in conversation and you're dating them both."

"What? Both? You have me all the way fucked up, you just really jumped out the window with that one. I'm not into Dip at all... She's my manager and that's where the line stays."

"I swear... You guys were dating. My bad, G."

"G? I like chill, Faree."

"Faree?"

"You don't like that Nickname?"

"It's.. Cool... Nic."

She smiled the grabbed his arm and pulled him towards his bedroom. He yanked back and stared at her as she twisted the knob and turned to face him. His face was sour as if she had done something wrong. She placed her hand on her hip and held on to the knob with the other.

"I'm not trying to have sex with you! Come on and put on your shoes."

She had convince him to go on a walk through the downtown area when a horse caridge passed by. He stopped the driver and paid him for at least four hours of ride time and they got in. She snuggled close to him as the breeze of night became cooler over time. Her legs were up under his as they both watched the quiets streets talking.

"What made you agree to manage me?"

"Dip really, I wasn't looking into investing my time into talent... I was looking for a new business to invest in and she thought this would be a better thing for me."

"Why?"

"Secret?"

"Sure."

"I'm a dancer too. None of that ballet shit or whatever, but I can dance."

"Want to get out and show me."

"Nah, maybe some other time."

She smiled at him, knowing there maybe a next time where it's just them talking and exchanging dance moves made her happy. She laid her head on his chest and reached up and touched his face, she trailed her hand down his neck and over his pack before dropping her hand lazily in her lap. She then tilted her head back and looked up at him.

"Were you married?"

"Engaged, why?"

"The big house. You had to buy it for someone to decorate."

"Yeah, well... Things just don't work out that way."

"Did she leave you?" She asked smally. She placed her hand in his and compared the size. She loved the bigness of his hand. She intertwined their fingers as she waited for an answer, but a few minutes had passed and still no answer. She leaned off of him and stared into his face, but it was blank. "You don't have..."

"She was my middle school sweet heart. Six years we were together, engaged straight out of high school then went our seperate ways in college.. We tried to make it work, but she was already doing her dirt.. While I was dumb enough to be loyal and bought the house prematurely. Anyways, she called it off and continued to do her."

"Wow, sorry.."

"Why did you start dancing?"

"Family issues... Boyfriend issues... I love the excitement and attention. If just for one night, everything is about me, eyes are on me then I'll take it how it comes."

"Family? Ha."

"Yeah, why you so against it? Family can be bad at times, but it's a bond that can't be broken by petty stuff and never repaired."

"I love my family, but I don't see them as much... My father died and left me all the businesses even though I became a lawyer.."

"At least your father isn't stealing from you."

"Huh?"

"My dad is a drug addict."

"That shit cray. Nan was like that before she got clean and started her clothing company."

"Is that..."

"Nah, she just took me in when my father and I's relationship tore apart."

"Oh." She mumbled getting more comfortable now with her legs on his lap. She snuggled closer to him. He placed his arms around her and held her now sleeping body close to his own body. He instructed the driver to take them back to the hotel. The driver looked over his shoulder and smiled at the two. Safaree was looking out at the sunrise as Nicki lay comfortably in his lap. It reminded him of back in Jamaica when he had taken his neices on the Safari through the forest and they had fell asleep in his arms.

The next morning, Nicki woke up in her hotel bed and the night before flashed through her mind. It was great, he was great. If anyone told her that she would have a friend like Safaree come into her life, she wouldn't have believed themhe first dude in a long time, that hadn't wanted her for just her body. He needed a friend just as much as she did. She grabbed her pack bag that had turned into three packed bags then walked over to his door and knocked. He opened the door in his button up shirt and suit. He grabbed his large bag and walked out behind her into the hallway. She grabbed his hand and held it as he shut the door. He laughed at the smile on her face. 

"We should have dinner when we get back to NY."

"I'm not flying back to New York with you, I have business to take care of in LA."

"LA? As in California? Can I go?"

"Business."

He said sternly looking at her. She rolled her eyes and dropped his hand. She walked a few steps ahead of him and pouted. He was unmoved by her display and continued on behind her as they made their way to the limo. There was a group of guys standing by the exit as she came and asked for pictures. He stood to the side as they took selfies with her then the guys scattered all over the parking lot towards their cars. He smirked at the big smile on her face. Fans recognized her and she loved it. It changed something in her that moment. In that moment, was when she realized that she had the power to make men do what she wanted. A blaze was ready to be lite inside of her. She threw her bags in the trunk then walked over to the opened door and smiled at the driver, who blushed in return.

She looked over at Faree, who was pressing buttons on his blackberry. He was focused on the conversation by the way his eyebrows furrowed and his jaw clenched tightly together. She looked down into her lap then back over at him. They were getting closer to the house and it was about nine in the morning. She sighed for what seemed like the millionth time that morning. He looked up from his phone then up at her, but she diverted her eyes to the window as if she hadn't been staring at him. He just stared back until a smile crept across her face.

"Wassup, yo?"

"Nothing." She mumbled crossing her arms.

"Talk! You been doing all that hard ass breathing since we left Atlanta, say it with ya chest lil nigga."

Her eyes bucked then she uncrossed her arms and pointed at him before speaking with lots of attitude. "Don't ever call me a nigga again and you've been ignoring me the whole ride." She pouted.

"I been hearing you, you just ain't been saying shit. You got a problem, speak up."

"I do, it's you! We were just friends..."

"Look, Onika.. I told you this, us.." He stated pointing between them. "We're just business."

"Fine, so you lied? You lied to Nan?"

"What?"

"We are friends, aren't we Onika?" She mocked deepening her voice. He chuckled then stretched his legs out in front if him. He instantly regretted putting on for Nan, but truth was, he didn't lie but he wasn't hundred percent either. Of course, there was some type of relationship between them more than business, but he didn't feel like dealing with her emotions. It was just too much. He sat back with his legs crossed at the ankle and stared out the window until they pulled up to the house.

He hurriedly got out and went inside as the guy maid went and got the bags out of the car. She helped him as she grabbed her small bags and Faree's jewelry box. She walked down the pavement slower than ever and up the stairs. She looked back towards the gate and saw two big trucks pull in. She quickened her pace towards the house. She stepped inside to see Safaree walking back out. She placed the items in her hands and on her arms on the floor and turned to him.

"Where are you going?"

"I have to catch my flight to LA."

"You haven't even packed!"

"I don't need to."

He stated over his shoulder. He reached inside the bowl on the table that sat by the door and grabbed a pink thing from Nicki's view. He walked over to her and placed it in her hand with a small envelope. She looked down into her hand and smiled at the Pink key that had Queen across it and the envelope the size of a gift card. She hugged him around his neck tightly before kissing his cheek. He pried from her grip and stepped back, wiping his face. She didn't care, she had one thing that she didn't have in her last relationship. She didn't care what he thought, but they were friends. He had said it and in front of his Nan, so he wasn't lying.

All Work

Nicki was sitting in Dips office a week later with the contract in hand. Dip was in a meeting with the dancers as she sat waiting for her in the roomy office. As she sat, she noticed that Dip had no personal photos on her desk, no photos at all to be exact. Everything was red and black, nothing was out of place just like Dips hair, nails and clothes. Everything fit and if it didn't, she'd get rid of it. Nicki didn't know if she could live the life of Dip.. It seemed like one of organized loneliness. She looked back over her shoulder as Lloyd and his lawyer came in the room. Why did a lawyer need a lawyer? She thought as she turned back to the papers in her hand. She had read them atleast twenty time, analyzed them, dissected them and studied them just to make it clear for herself. He sat next to her in the black chair, but far enough to give her space. He didn't even glance her way or acknowledge her even when his lawyer extended his welcoming hand along with a smile.

"You must be Nicki?"

"This is me, in the flesh."

"Nice meeting your acquaintance."

"Same to you."

She replied looking away from him. His gaze read thirsty and degrading. His rugged hands gave her body an eerie chill of goose bumps. He sat down behind SL, but stared over at her. She felt him, but she wouldn't look back. SL cleared his throat then looked over his shoulder at his lawyer. They leaned into each other then the lawyer stood and walked out. SL turned towards her with a business demeanor about himself today, totally different from the last time. He shrugged then pulled out his copy of the contract. He had parts highlighted and some circled for emphasizes.

"This is business and this is how I run my business. Number one, I don't want any drama between me and my boy, Webb, so stay in line."

"Don't talk to me as if I've tried to come on to you!"

"Don't try to, I'm giving you a heads up. Number two, I only cancel business for personal issues like hospital visits of your own illness and deaths."

"No personal time?"

"You get that when you earn it."

He stated looking her over. She huffed thinking about the tour lay out, she had seen in the back of the contract. She was booked five days out  of the week and for the three weeks straight. She only had a week & eight days to herself and her family that she never went to see. He continued to lay down the rules for her as she thought about her mother and how they hadn't talked three months. He had stopped talking once he saw a tear race down her cheek and she swiftly wiped it away with her fist.

"If this is..."

"No, I'm fine... I'm ready. Where do I sign?"

"On this line, this one and this one, but wait... Let me show you how much you will be making and where your money will be coming from."

She nodded silently.

"So, as promised by Dip, you'll be taking 80% of the earnings.. Me and her are halfing 20%. Your earnings will come from every show you give, the tickets you sale, your face advertising and of course the tips. Dip will be funding your first five shows out of pocket, which you will have to give back plus her ten percent. I will just be there managing your time, money and health. There will be on site doctors and such. Got it?"

"Got it."

He showed her everything in the clause and everything in fine print. She signed her name along side his. She was his project and anything that had his name attached to it, needed top everything. He stood and walked towards the door and opened it. Dip and his Lawyer walked back in. They all talked and signed the papers. Dip hugged her and wished her well. Her journey around North America would begin in two weeks, to say she was nervous was an understatement. She was a complete mess.

They met up on the outside of state lines to start shopping. He walked a distance away from her as she took baby steps behind him. Everything was business with him, it was as if he never had fun in life. She could tell that he had probably been single for some time because he barely looked at a woman without gazing for a long while. She found him amusing to say the least, but he never paid her any mind after the day in her kitchen. Business before Pleasure was what he told her on his way to her. She decided that she would keep her distances because he clearly didn't want her friendship. They walked into a dark shop were a short white lady came from the back and greeted him, happily as if she knew him.

"Hi, Nan.. I have a new body for you."

"Let me see!"

She stated in her heavy Italian accent. She was a small lady with black rimmed glasses that made her face look older than she appeared to be. It was like she walked off the set of her favorite movie, The Devil Wears Prada. She was perfect to Nicki. She quickly pulled out measuring tape and began taking her measurements. She smiled her tiny waist line and marveled at her butt measurement.

"She's perfect. Tiny waist, lovely bust and curvy."

"So, you'll dress her?"

"For free."

"You sure nan? I can..."

"She's going to be a star! They'll want to be her, dress like her! She'll bring in more customers, more money than you can give me."

She waved him off as she walked back to the back. He nodded at her thought process, Nan knew people and she could read you before you read yourself or even believed in yourself. He looked over at her as she looked at a custome on a mannequin. It was a beautiful satin black dance suit made for a belly dancer. The sheer sides, could leave nothing to the imagination with the matching bra top that was fully sheer besides the satin nipple pastings. He imagined her in it, performing for a bunch of drunk white men in tailored suits. He chuckled a little bit causing her to look over at him then tilt her head to the side like a lost puppy. He smirked then looked towards the curtain that flew back and Nan came rushing over with a suitcase.

"I'm ready. Go get my other bags, Safaree."

"Yes, Nan."

Nicki giggled at the pet name from his Nan. The older lady walked passed her with grace and self assurance. It was beautiful to Nicki and it gave a lot of respect towards the lady. Nan cleared her throat to indicate that she should followed behind her. They walked over to the limo that Lloyd had road in and got in. She sat down and watched as he went back and forth grabbing her bags and placing them in the trunk.

"What's your name, Pretty Girl?"

"Nic..."

"Your real name." She stated looking over the rim of her glasses.

"Onika."

"That's pretty. You must be special."

"Huh?"

"Safaree has never brought a girl to Nan. He usually just gets her measurement and call me."

"Or he just didn't want to ask me. He doesn't say much to me, outside..."

"Your measurements are part of this business... Don't ever think that anything that has something to do with dance.. Isn't business."

She stated still peering over her glasses. Nan knew him and she could read Nicki's body language and the way she spoke, that they had affected each other, but she had taught him that business and pleasure, could get him into trouble. But Onika in her eyes, was far from trouble. She was troubled and needed comfort, love and stability. So she knew that he had brought her there for the reason that she would give him the info on her. She placed her small hand on top of hers and smiled at.

"He's worth the wait."

Nicki smiled, not understanding the hint, but she felt comfort in the lady just talking to her. She looked towards the door that was now opening and he appeared in the doorway. He smiled over at his Nan, who lifted up Nicki's hand and smiled gleefully as if she were a child. It was their inside thing. He had only done this once before and that was in middle school. The relationship lasted well until their first semester of college then everything turned sour and so did he. 

"We'll drop you off by your car."

"Then what?"

"You go home and pack for a week."

"My first travel agent job? Or..."

"You'll be working at the Children's hospital in Atlanta for a week. You'll be back here the weekend after that."

"Do I need to pack..."

"Just regular clothes, you'll be with children.. If you want Webster to believe you... Do as I say, nothing extra."

He stated looking at her in the face. She nodded then got out after he came to complete stop in front of her car. She smiled over at Nan and waved at her then walked over to her car. She got in and looked out towards them as they sat there and waited for her. She pulled up along side of the limo and blew her horn. She was speeding through the parking lot until her phone ring with an unknown number showing up. She slowed down and pressed the car phone button. His voice boomed through the speakers of the car and caused her body to flutter.

"You have to change cars."

"What why?"

"You need to be lowkey until further notice."

"I love my car."

"Nicki."

"I trust you."

She mumbled then clicked hang up. Men controlled her and she hated it. If it wasn't her father, it was Webb and now it was SL or Lloyd or whoever he was. She was beginning to feel like nothing, but a pawn in everyone's game. Everyone told her what to do, not ask her what she wanted to do! "We have your best interest at heart!"

"I'm tired of this!"

She banged on the door of her and Webb's home and rocked side to side. She had been outside for five minutes before he came to the door in his towel. She rolled her eyes and entered into the bedroom. She grabbed seven pair of pants and threw them in her duffle bag. Webb stomped into the room and angrily grabbed her shoulder, making her face him.

"Where you going?"

"I told you, I'm a dance teacher!"

"I thought you didn't start that until next week!"

"Well, I got a call and they booked me this week."

"You're not going, cancel!"

"No, just so I can be stuck under you all day, doing nothing!"

"Onika!!"

"Webster... I need space, okay! I can't not do anything and just live off you!"

"You can!"

"I can't! I'll be back next weekend..."

He went to the night stand and grabbed his gun. He aimed it at his head and began shouting loudly at her.

"YOU CHEATING ON ME WITH ANOTHER MAN?"

"No, Baby... Please!"

"YOU WANT ME TO KILL MYSELF! YOURE LEAVING ME!"

"No, I'm not! I won't go... Okay, I'll stay here with you."

She cried walking up on him. He let the gun down and cried as he hugged around her waist. He kissed her cheek and bend her tight as she placed her hands firmly on his back and cried into his chest. Her man clearly needed her more than this dance thing. They laid down and she sung him to sleep as he lay protectively over her body. She laud under him for an hour before she slid from under him and made her way to her phone. She called the number back that he had called her on and he picked up.

"Hi, uh... Lloyd... Or...?"

"Call me, Safaree."

"Oh, Safaree.. I can't go to Atanta..."

"I told you before..."

"My boyfriend needs me..."

"He must of got you with the Suicide Gun trick?"

"Huh?"

"You're so gullible. I knew I shouldn't have let Dip talk me into doing business with you."

"What? I'm not gullible!"

"You sure don't have a backbone! When are you going to wake up and realize yours better than that?"

"Look..."

"Listen to me, listen close... If you don't get packed up and ready for this flight Sunday night then this will be the last time, we talk about you being who you are. You're better than that."

She heard the sincereness in his voice. It moved her in ways nobody had ever been able to persuade her. His hard shell and soft inside made her feel safe in that moment as if he cared about her more than he let on when they were in the same room. She quietly grabbed four of her suitcases and began packing all of her things. Webb was her obstacle in her game and that's why she hadn't been playing. He made her weak like her father made her mother weak. She stacked the bags on top of each other then rolled them over the plush carpets and over the tile floors of the living room. She went back into the room to grab her duffle bag and he was still out like a bear.

"Hi, Safaree... You still there?"

"Yeah.." He answered sleepily.

"Could you come pick me up from Webb's please."

"Sure.. Give me ten minutes."

She stared out the window as they drove back towards the city limits. Nicki had eight suitcases loaded in his SUV. Four with her clothes and four packed with her money that she had removed from the car. She left the keys on the table with a note.

"Hey."

"Yeah." She looked over at him as he slowed down in front of a three story house. It was beautiful. It was like a castle from the outside and she could only imagine, what it looked like on the inside. He gestured for her to get out and then went to the back and grabbed her bags. He grabbed the four stacked bags then one of the money cases. He didn't know that in the cass was money, but he knew it was heavy. She grabbed two of the other cases then threw the light one on her back. She followed him up the stairs of the porch into the house and was sadden by the emptiness of the house. The living room had one sofa and no pictures. She followed him through what she figured was a dining area because of the four persons table, but there was only one chair. He pressed the button for the elevator and they got on with her stuff.

"Thanks, for letting me spend the night.. I'll find a hotel in the morning."

"You're fine, make yourself comfortable."

He stated as they exited onto the second floor. He pushed open a door to what appeared to be a guestroom. It was cold, but it looked like someone kept it up. He placed her bags by the bed then left. He shortly returned with a key card in his hand.

"I have a maid that comes back at seven am, two pm and ten pm to clean or whatever. If you don't want her in here, put this up. I'll be down the hall if you need anything. Goodnight."

"Goodnight." She crawled in the big king sized bed and lay on her side thinking. Was this just him doing business, like usual? Protecting his pawn or was this like Nan said "He's worth the wait." was he coming around to her and maybe a friendship, so that the nights on the road wouldn't be so lonely for the both of them?

Mr. Friendly

Nicki placed her hand on the handle of the skillet and gripped it tightly as she flipped the omelet onto Webb's plate. It had been three weeks since she last dance at the club. She was bored because now all she did was wait on him hand and foot, it was becoming less romantic with Webb. She was even gaining weight from cooking four times a day and lounging around. The only reason she hadn't kept a lot of the weight on was because she would dance while he was working. She looked up to see him scratching at his balls on the way to the table. She placed his food on the table then grabbed her cereal bar and headed to the living room. She sighed as Cops came on. This episode happen to be about a drug bust and the cops had taken in the girlfriend, who hadn't known her home was a stash office for her boyfriend's stuff. She rolled her eyes as she felt his hand under her chin and down her neck. He kissed her forehead then walked to the bathroom. 

She crawled to the end of the sofa then stretched out. She turned on her side and finished watching the episode. She listened as he took a shower and sang extra loud. She was sick of being in the house and when she went out, he had a bodyguard following her. He needed to make sure that, she didn't go back to the club or at least that's what he told her. Every day, she was cleaning, cooking, dressing, online shopping and lounging around. He had promised he'd take her out, but it had been two weeks since that promise was broken. He stepped out the shower in his towel and a shower cap on his nicely shaped up hair cut. She watched him with an upset pout on her face and arms folded across her chest. He looked over and winked her way. She rolled her eyes then turned back towards the TV.

"Yo, what's up with you?"

"I'm tired of being in this house!"

"Go out, take Pop with you."

"No! I want to hang with my girls, alone!"

"You trying to go to the club?!"

He screamed at her, but she was over it and him at this point. In three weeks, he had changed drastically and wouldn't even give her a key to the house which she didn't understand why not? But in his true, Webb, fashion.. He made her believe some lie. "Why you need a key when you're always with me?" She huffed then grabbed her keys and purse then walked out of the door. She grabbed the pocket knife out of her purse and slashed the tires of all four of his cars then got in her hot pink Benz, he had just bought her two days ago for standing her up at the park, and drove off heading to the club.

She entered the club with her shades on, hair flowing over her shoulders and below her ass. Nicki walked through the doors towards the dressing room and knocked on the door of Dips office. She made sure to park in the back where Dip had told her, so no-one could see her car. Dip opened the door with a big smile on her face as she embraced Nicki. She stepped back and looked her over, she gently pulled her forward and looked over her backside. Nicki bounced it for her and they both began laughing.

"I miss you girl! C&C ain't the same without you."

"I know... I should go throw on my old piece and go out there."

"Nah, I got better things for you."

"What's that?"

"How about being a traveling dancer?"

"Dip, you know..."

"You'll be making minimum six figures a night. Paid travel and living."

"My boyfriend?"

"Tell him, I'm training you as my paralegal, I have cases out of state."

"He isn't going to believe that shit."

"Well, I'll think of something.... Just say you'll do it."

"What's my cut? Detail me in."

"80% cut, plus the tips because you know I can flip money and triple my share and you'll be dancing for Millionaires and Billionaires... Bachelore parties and etc."

"Million... Billion?"

"Yup, this young rich dude's friend showed him a video of you from Philly's night bar."

"Why not Candi, she dances way better?"

"Because you have an exotic look.. That long natural hair and beautiful butter pecan skin, those chink eyes and killer body... You're a man's fantasy all in one."

She shrugged her shoulders before crossing her legs. Dip sat back staring at her for a few minutes before speaking again. This time, she spoke with much more excitement in her voice. The way she talked about the future, you would of thought it was her making the money with her ass showing to the world. Nicki listened to what she wanted to hear, but she was soon snapped out of her thoughts once the office door open and Mr. Brown and Lovely walked in with a red suit on with a black flower coming out of the pocket. It looked custom made just for him. Her eyes glued to him as he made his way over to Dip and say next to her on the arm of the chair. 

"He will be assisting you on your trips across the country."

"What? I thought..."

"I will be there, through him... He's a man and can better protect you than I can, plus... He's a fast talker. Real Prince Charming."

"Dip, my boyfriend will kill...."

"He won't find out, plus... Your new lie is that you're a travel agent, teaching young girls to dance. Which you will be doing during the day."

"What? Since when..."

"I just thought about it... Think about it... More money for your pockets? More towns and people to influence!"

"I guess, that's fine."

Nicki shifted under his gaze on her. He was mind blown by the beauty of her in jeans and a tank top. He could tell she didn't have on a bra, but that made it even harder from him to turn away. Her nipples were a dark brown with nipple rings going through them. He shifted his eyes trying to think if she had them when he first encountered her. He looked back over at Dip as she rubbed her hand on his thigh. He smirked at her familiar motions of affection. Diane was a full blown Puerto Rican, who knew hustling from the family business, but she always wanted to make legal money and still get her hands on dirty money. They had been friends since their teen years and had learned each other well and that's why they decided to do business together. SL's family had money just like Diane's if not more. His family owned a chain of businesses and always invested in something to make a profit. Cookie was business to him, beautiful business, but none the less, business. He has seen plenty of beautiful women and they didn't blind his focus, so neither would some ho.

"So me and SL will send you a copy of the contract to your PO box, come here and we'll read it together. SL will be your on the road manager, business partner and lawyer. Nicki, I will take care of you and the people I have around you, will also. Right, SL?"

"Sure thing."

Nicki nodded rubbing her palms over her jeans. His gaze was on her again and it made her melt again like the night at the club. She quickly and thankfully looked down at her phone to see her King calling again. She put up her finger and answered the call. She smiled at him being worried about where she was as she stepped out of the room.

"I told you I needed to get out of the house. I'm tired of you having him baby sit me as if I'm a child. I'm grown!"

"Webb, go back in the house and eat because you're clearly hungry and not getting enough oxygen to your brain."

He was now mad because she wasn't listening to him. With this new deal on the table, she could be making her own money and not need him, but she loved him and wanted him to be a part of her journey to stardom. She smiled realizing that she could be famous from this... Large billboards with her own them would be lovely. She was even more excited for this contract tomorrow. Webb had called out to her now six times, but she couldn't hear him over her dreams. He finally hung and that's when she noticed he was standing there watching her.

"Some Boyfriend."

"You don't know him..."

"Right."

He stated smirking at her. He walked passed her and exited the building. She watched him from the window get into a BMW then wiped into the street. She frowned then walked back into Dip's office.

"Dip, this is only business right?"

"Yes, why?"

"Your friend, I'm not sure..."

"He's defiantly only about business, you obviously don't know who he is, but you'll soon find out."

"Huh?"

"He's a businessman and he'll never mix his business with pleasure. That's just how he works."

Nicki nodded and sighed of relief. She walked out after saying bye to Dip and dropped by the dressing room, but Candi & Cash were already on the floor performing.  She quickly made it to her old locker and pulled up the bottom of it and pulled out her ten sticks of money and placed them in her large overnight bag. She tossed it over her shoulder after putting the bottom back and closing it tight. She made her way to her car, constantly looking over her shoulder then threw it in her trunk underneath the extra wheel with her other stash that was inside the wheel. She had been stashing money in her cars for, forever. Her old car was parked at her mom's and it was packed with cash. Webb had showed her how to pack a car with loads of money, she could easily pack six cars with a million bucks if she wanted, but she didn't. She was waiting on the right time to deposit it in a bank without looking suspicious.

She took the hour route home just to mentally prepare herself for Webb's lecture, but when she got there... The Silver on Black BMW was in the driveway. It was him, but why was he here? She panicked thinking he was following her and wanted something from her. She parked along the side of house, like she always did, because all of Webb's cars took up the garage space. She quickly pulled the key out the ignition and hurried inside. She was met by a different side of him and he was chilling with her man as if they were buddies. She walked over and Webb smiled at her. He reached out for her and patted his lap for her to sit and she did. He kissed her neck and touched her thighs then looked at her.

"This my girl, Onika and this my Best Friend, on the good side, Lloyd."

"Wassup?"

He extended his hand to her as if he didn't know her. She returned the fakeness and shook his hand. His touch sent a wave through her body and she quickly pulled her hand back, he had felt it too. He laid back and looked towards the TV as they all sat in a comfortable silence watching the game. She would look over and examine him, but he was paying her no attention. Her eyes traveled down his body as he sported a white beater that showed his nice muscles and pack. She followed him down to his other back that showed a long softness against his right thigh. She quickly looked away then excused herself and headed to the kitchen.

"You want anything to drink Webby?"

"A beer, get my man a water."

"Okay."

She stated rushing to the kitchen. She ran cold water over her hands and splashed it in her face. She jumped a little when he walked into the kitchen. He stood in the walk way staring at her. Her face was just as beautiful without make up and the glitter shit. He walked over and stood in front of her then bent down to whisper in her ear.

"You can stop staring at me like that... Don't want your man to kick your ass."

"As if, I'm paying you any attention."

She stepped around him and grabbed a water and a beer. She handed him the water then walked out of the kitchen. She handed the beer to Webb and as Lloyd came into view she bent over and kissed his lips. He looked at her and grinned knowing what that kiss meant. He looked up over the sofa and nodded at his friend, who returned the nod.

"I'm out. Don't forget what I told you Webb.. Stay out of trouble, I can't keep saving your ass."

"I gotcha, you got me?"

"Always, nice meeting you, Young Lady."

He stated not looking at her. She was off limits now, but it was nothing but business from here out between them. Because at the end of the day, he could one night her and she'd go back home to his friend. She was a whipped ho and he didn't fuck around with her kind and she dealt with the two people who he knew could rob anyone out their home, so she had to be just like them in away. She was either after money or power. With Webb it was about respect and having the best piece of pussy on his arm, so he knew she had to be some kind of freak and on the other had, Dip could collect your change, wallet and accounts with you knowing. Money was her motivate and she used the power of beauty and pussy to get it. They all went way back to middle school/high school, so they knew each other but they clearly didn't know they were both fucking the same bitch. So she had to be shady & out for self. He was going to figure her out.

Dance or Die?

Nicki pulled the G- String over her plump round ass. She looked at herself in the ceiling to floor mirror. She admired her hourglass figure from all angles then looked up as her friends walked into the dressing room with their bags. Diane, also known as Dip, slammed her bags on their shared mirrored dresser then yanked back her curling irons out the open bag. She hurriedly plugged them in as Candice, better known as Candi, stripped down to nothing but her heels and a thong. Nicki turned back to the full length mirror and looked over her sparkling necklace that she had just placed around her neck.

"Hurry up, you guys have fifteen minutes until show time."

"Dip, calm down... The boys can wait and had you picked me up on time... We wouldn't be rushing."

Candi replied glaring at her. Dip was their dance manager and she booked all their events from public strip clubs to private parties of white men. She did their hair and paid for their clothing, she took care of it all except bathing them, but if she could.. She would. She quietly did Candi's hair as Nicki stood over to the side watching. Nicki was quiet during the ten minutes before every show, praying for a safe night. She was more nervous tonight than any other night because this was a large private party at the club. Some big time dealer had rented it out for the night for his 200 something friends. Dip had managed to book ten more girls for the night, but that didn't keep Candi & Cookie from being the spotlight of the night.  Nicki quickly sat in the chair and let Dip curl her hair that tickled the top of her ass. 

"You nervous, Cook?"

"I was, but this is what I do."

"Good. Get out there and work those pockets."

"Anything for a buck."

"Another Night."

"Another Pocket."

"Another Dollar."

They each chimed in then fell out in a fit of laughter. That was their motto and that's where Dip got the name. She was always in somebody's pockets whether it be legally or illegally. See, Dip wasn't no stupid woman at all, she had a trick and a trade for anybody. Dip was a lawyer during the day and managed dancers/strippers at night. She had legal money and illegal money, but at the end of the day.. She still had the law behind her, so she could flip money like nobody's business and without any alarm from anyone. Nicki admired her, but she also wanted to be in her shoes some day. She wanted better for herself and Webb was her way out, so she thought.

Cookie and Candi walked out of them room behind a line full of beautiful women. They were small club strippers by the way they were dressed. Some had on boy shorts, others had on fishnet shirts and one even had on a pair of flats that Dip quickly dismissed. She had her change then come back with a pair of three inch heels on. Nicki waved at the girls as she passed and gave compliments to some she thought were pretty. She quickly got around to the front when Guy announced Cookie and Candi and the Fab ladies to the stage. They all walked out in a line and separated at the end and went their seperate ways. Most of the guys were in jeans with nice watches, shirts, bling and plenty of cash. But C&C were after the big ones, the ones who thought they were smart enough to keep their jewelry in the car, pocket or coats, but they got, got.. Dip had ladies steal for her, but she kept C&C's hands clean, but what they did personally she has no control over. Candi could rob a nigga in his dreams then sport it around her neck like she hadn't robbed him blind, but Cookie wasn't the type. She got them to give it to her with no complaints. Tonight, she was on the prowl for some Chocolate even with her Teddy Bear at home. She danced around until she met eyes with an unusual sight. She had never seen a guy like him in there. She quickly made her way over and grabbed his drink. She replaced his drink with her body and spread her legs across his body. He was amused, but he didn't look where she wanted him to, but stared into her eyes as she stared back. She slid down between the table and his body and began to pop on his lap. 

He stood up and placed her on the table then ran his hand over his business suit as Dip walked over to them. She smiled over at Nicki then hugged the guy as he gripped her booty. Nicki stood up and smirked as she watched them interact. 

"Cookie, this SL, my partner in crime."

"Hi, I'm Cookie... You guys are steady?"

"Nah, we're just friendly, he's single as a pringle and you know I'm gay."

"If you wasn't, I'd tear that ass down."

"You could do that now..."

Dip winked as she leaned over to Cookie. "Make him want you and leave him dry." She kissed her cheek then walked off. Nicki watched her leave then faced a shy SL as he sat down watching the crowd from a distance.

"Why aren't you over there with the other drug lords?"

"Cause I'm, my own person. I'm a man and men don't need a bunch of niggas around to have a good time."

"So why you come?"

She quizzed walking over to him and pulled the table back. She straddled his lap and wrapped her arms around his neck. He admired her face as she stared deep into his soul waiting for his answer. He slowed looked down into her breast that were sitting up pretty and brushed with glitter as if her skin produced it. He looked over her shoulder as her ass that was nicely seated on his lap. It was plump, it enticed him, but not enough to make him hard, she was just a ho. 

"To have my own private party."

"Am I your entertainment?"

"Looks, like it."

"That right."

"You're beautiful."

She looked up from focusing on the small chain that was around his neck to the his brown lovely face. His brown skin was glowing in the now dimly lite room. His full lips were pick and his eyes were beautiful for a man. His hands that rested on her hips, were manly but soft. The way he looked at made her body melt. She quickly shook off the eye connection and moved from his lap, but he pulled her back down by her arm.

"You shouldn't be in here."

"You Captain Save-A-Bitch? I have a boyfriend."

"He ain't a man, if his bitch in a Bar... Stripping for a bunch of broke niggas."

"Broke? But you here, you one too."

"I can't be too broke, since I rented it out for a party of 200 with unlimited drinks on my treat. A dealer couldn't do that on his millions or thousands."

He spoke as he let her go and stood up to leave. He placed six stacks on the table and left out the club. She watched him with admiring eyes.. He had to be a God in the drug game or something. She wanted his money and she needed to get close to him.. Somehow.

Nicki quietly stepped over the brick in the backyard and rushed through the side door that led to the den. When she stepped inside, Webb was sat on the chair waiting for her. He looked tired as if he was up all night and day waiting for her return. She placed her bag down and stared into his emotionless chubby face. He smirked then walked up on her as he examined her appearance. She had a baby blue sweatsuit with a pair of white Nikes with a baby blue check mark to match her outfit. Her hair was still curled and her face still glittered.

"Where you been?"

"With Candi... I told you that earlier."

"You smell like Baby powder and cigars. 

So, I'm a ask again... Where you been yo?"

"I just told you Webb!"

"Why you lying man? I smell the niggas on you, yo? You still shaking your ass for other niggas?"

"No!"

She lied stepping back as he chuckled. He grabbed her bag and snatched it open and her baby blue dance suit fell out along with her outfit from the night. He threw the bag as her and walked away. She let it drop to the floor as she chased behind him up the stairs. He knew she danced, that's where they had met, but his insecurities made him upset. If she would date him, what stopped her from fucking with the next nigga, possible a nigga he didn't like or better yet, a nigga from his own team. He'd have to fuck them both up. He decided to do what he felt was right and that would be to guilt her into doing as he wanted.

He pulled his gun out of his night stand and held it to his head as she stood in total shock and fear. What is he doing? She started to shake as he placed his finger on the trigger and nodded his head as she shook her's. This was his thing, the suicide guilt trip. He had done this to plenty of bitches and it worked. He placed the piece down then aimed it at her, she jumped back as the tears began pouring down her face. She held her arms up as she pleaded with him to calm down.

"Nicki, I don't want to do this... But if you don't stop dancing... I'm.."

"Please, don't kill me. I promise, I'll stop."

"Kill myself... I don't want other niggas looking at what's mine!"

"Okay, Okay!"

"I'm serious, Onika! If I catch you in the club... I'll make you regret it."

"I'm done, I'll call my manager right now!"

She stumbled over her words as he placed the piece back in his nightstand then handed her the phone. She wiped at her face hundreds if times before taking the phone and dialing Dip from private. She silently talked to herself as the phone continued to ring until the machine picked up. She breathed in slow and waited for the beep then cleared her throat to sound as if she hadn't been crying and nothing was wrong. Inside, she was scared. Webb was her life line, she needed him and if she did anything that could take him away from her, she'd have nothing. He knew this as much as she did, but he didn't let it show. He had her where he wanted her and that was his.

"So, I'll return my stuff tomorrow when I see you at 6. Okay? Call me on my cell."

She stated before hanging up then erasing the number. He hugged her tightly then whispered into her ear that he loved her. She held on tight to him as he laid her down and stripped her over her clothes. He admired her full breast and rubbed them as the chill bumps began to ride on them. Her nipples were hard, but she wasn't horny. She was in another world. Was he worth quiting? Dancing had become her? Was it worth dying for? Or having the love of her life dead? She thought she made the right decision and gave into him. Her body was his. Her mind was him. Her soul became his. He was her. Live for who you love or die for what was temporary? 

New Life?

The car didn’t come to a complete stop at the stop sign until the car speeding by nearly hit it. She lowered her sunglasses as the driver hit the brakes in time not to hit the speeding car. She pushed her glasses back up and watched the blue benz race down the street. She shrugged her shoulders as the driver of the cab began to drive again and head towards her home. A house made for three, but housing five. She turned towards the small shabby house and cringed at the feelings that welled up in her heart from memories of living there. She visited constantly but still got chills being there. She stepped out the car with her LV bag then looked back towards the cabby. She stuck her newly manicured nails into her bag and pulled out a hundred then handed it to the driver. He started to object, but she slammed the door closed then briskly walked towards the gated house and pushed the gate open just wide enough for her to get through. With each step she thought of turning back around not ready for this big bomb she was about to lay on her mother. She stared down at her heels that she had gotten a few months back from her boyfriend, but finally decided to wear them. Why did I wear these? She thought as she stepped up on the last stair and right in front of the door. She knocked lightly at first then a little heavier as her nerves took over her and she looked around her to see if she had been followed. She jumped as the door flew open and there stood her mother at 5’0 with her hair flowing over her shoulders and a warm smile on her face. She pushed the screen door open and let her walk in. She quickly turned back to her mother and hugged her tightly as if she hadn’t seen her in days.

“Onika?”

“Mommy.”

“What’s wrong baby girl?”

“I love you and I just need to talk to you.”

“About what? Spit it out?”

“Um….”

She hesitated as she clamped her hands together then sighed again. Her mother grab her hands and placed them together between her own small hands as she led her to the long sofa across from the small television that was playing a movie low. She stared at her mother then smiled a half hearted smile to somewhat ease her mind. Her mother sat up straight with every passing quiet second until Onika started to talk in a low hushed town with her emotions escalating as she fought the tears that wanted to fall from her eyes.

“I’ve decided to move in with Webb."

She rushed out looking over her mother's, now, hardened face. Her mother was a strong believer in a solid relationship, which consisted of them being engaged, before moving in together. All of her emotions escaped her once her mother started to cry. She knew this would break her heart, but she didn't plan on her crying about it. She quickly embraced her mother in a tight hug then jilted back when she felt a strong tug away from her. Her mother has pulled away and stood over her looking at her with disapproval all over her face.

"Onika, just go..."

"Mommy?"

"You don't listen to me, why should I keep wasting my enegry on you?"

"You're suppose to be here for me."

"I'm not supporting this relationship, he's no good and you deserve much better!"

"He treats..."

"Like a pawn in his game! Relationships aren't games, Baby!"

"You don't even know him! You never even..."

"I know him, I know him more than you think..."

"What does that mean?"

She questioned staring at her mother's face soften nearly breaking down, but she quickly shook it off. She placed her hand on her child's cheek then sighed loudly. This was her last straw and Onika had plucked it. Webb had been in their life for two years and had changed it in all of the first two months. But, Onika couldn't shake his fast money, fast cars and fast lifestyle period. He had made her home into a target for dope dealers and made her daughter into one of his many whores and have her husband his fixes. So, she did know him and everytime she told her daughter the truth, it back fired because he'd buy her love again and she couldn't compete with that. She finally walked away from her daughter, she had had enough of her blind love for a guy who was helping destroy her family even while providing for her which in-turn provided for them.

Nicki grabbed a few things out of her old room, silently talking to herself as she moved about the small room. Her mother giving up on her, had set ablaze in her and she was determined to set right and prove her mother wrong. That Webb was a good guy and that he would do as he promised and take care of them always. She placed her baby blue top with the matching shorts in her carry-on bag with her other things including the pictures of her family and friends. She picked up the biggest picture on her dresser that was of her and her family before drugs turned their world around. A chill whispered up her spine, traveled up the back of her neck and blew across her face. The thoughts of her father came rushing to the forefront of her mind. He had made the strongest woman in the world, weak. Nicki had wished upon plenty of stars that her mother fight back, for herself and if not for herself, for them. Especially her baby brother. She wiped a tear that had trickled down her perfectly made up face. She swiftly placed the bag on her back after zipping it up. 

She took the short walk across the hall to her baby brother's room where he lay sleeping. His baby innocence made her soul ache a little. This would be the times, he would miss like she had. Her father's demons would eat at his innocence and make him hard like her one day but she prayed that it wouldn't happen that way and maybe her mother grow a back bone and leave him, but until then she would be the one leaving them behind. She kissed his baby face and rubbed through his curls then walked out of his room and down the hall. She found her mother sitting at the dinning room table and kissed her cheek then held her head against her shoulder. Her mother embraced her warmly.

"Be safe out there Onika."

"I will. I love you... I'll be back once we're settled in."

"You do that, call me if you need help..."

"You know, I'm not... I need to do this for me. Bye, Mommy."

She kissed her other cheek and quickly made her way out the door where Webb sat waiting for her in his Green Honda SVU with tinted windows. She placed her bags in the back seat then looked over at his round fat face with love. He smiled then locked the door and pulled off as she put her seatbelt on. She grabbed his hand and held it as Tupac played on the radio and he bumped it loudly riding down the New York streets. He laughed loudly as he watched her face turn up as they pulled up to his home on the New York City line. 

"When are we moving into a home, I can call my own?"

"When the time is right, Nic? Just chill."

"We've been together too long, for me to just chill now. I want more..."

"Nic, you my main girl... That should be enough. I'm moving you into home.. That should be enough. Stop trying to get ahead of this thing."

She nodded. He was right though. She was his girl and the first one he moved into his house, so she couldn't complain. She would take it as it came to her like everything else in their relationship. She hopped out the car behind him as he grabbed her bags and headed into the house where it was finely decorated in white on black with a splash of gold here and there. She loved it, it was sexy. It made her feel pretty in a beautiful home waiting for her as Webb had told her when he said it was time for her to move in. She didn't have a key, yet, but this was her home. 

"Alright, get unpacked and the closet is yours. I'll get Taylor to go shopping for everything in your size and fill up the closet for every occasion."

"Taylor?"

"My stylist and personal shopper."

"Oh, the gay guy?"

"Yeah. He has a key. He should be here in a few just give him your sizes and tell him what you like."

"Wil do."

She replied becoming excited about her new life with Webb. He was her king and nothing or no-one, so she thought, could change her mind about that. He was great in every way and treated her like the Queen she believed she thought she should be treated like. 

"Life will be better, I feel it."