“Beautiful, I hope this isn’t a call to cancel this afternoon? I’ve been looking forward to it all week.”
“Good morning, stud,” I sang, stopping his rant. His chuckle at the nickname filled my ear, and I found myself grinning wide.
“Good morning, Beautiful. Sorry, I’m just really looking forward to spending time with you.”
“Now I feel bad asking,” I hedged, biting my lip.
“If you’re not canceling, then please, ask.”
“Well, I’m at the courthouse with Monroe, and he won the custody case.”
“Oh, that’s incredible.”
“Yeah, it really is. I’m so happy for him. He really is a good father.”
“So, what does this have to do with today?”
“I bumped into Wells on my way in, and he had to cancel last night for something, and I told him I couldn’t work out today because I had my appointment with you.”
“Mmhmm.”
“So, when Monroe said he wanted to do something to celebrate, Wells let it be known I was getting a tattoo today.”
“Ah, I think I see where this is going.”
“Well, if you’re able, can you fit two more in? We could come over right now.”
“Hmm. On the one hand, I don’t get individual time with you, but on the other hand, I get to see you sooner and perhaps longer. It’s really an easy answer, Beautiful.”
“Oh?”
He chuckled, the sound doing amazing things to my body. I was starting to learn I had a thing for voices. My session in the sensation room had been an enlightening factor.
“Yes, Beautiful. If I get to be with you, I’m good. I tell you what, though, grab me some coffee and some of those awesome donuts at that place you were talking about, and I’ll meet you all there.”
“Thanks, stud,” I giggled. “You’re the absolute best.”
“I like when you get all lovey-dovey, Loren. It makes me tingle inside.”
“Well, if it lasts longer than four hours, you should consult a doctor.”
The laugh that bubbled out of Nicco had me feeling light, grinning from ear to ear.
“I’ll keep that in mind. I’ll see you soon, babe.”
“Bye, Nicco.”
Hanging up, I turned, smiling, and found them watching me.
“That sounded like a fun conversation. Did he say yes?”
Nodding, I tucked my hair back. “Yes, we just gotta pick up donuts and coffee. Let me check with Nat real quick, now.”
I decided to call, finding it easier and easier with each person I let into my circle. She also answered quickly, and I wondered if I’d just been calling the wrong people all my life.
“Girl! I’ve missed you. I haven’t heard from you since last week. How did everything at the club go?”
“Oh, wow. Has it been a whole week? Shit, I’m a horrible friend. A lot has happened since then.”