The "Come" Back cont.

“I still can’t believe us” Nicki lounged against Safaree wrapped up in the drying blankets. A reddish orange beam of light seeped through the double window above the bed. The sun was rising, ending one beautiful night opening a doorway for a new one.

“Can’t believe what?”SB was busy contemplating the day’s plans.

“That you proposed, and I said yes. I don’t know maybe that we’re getting married.”

 “It was bound to happen, I just figured why wait forever. Everybody thought we was together anyway so.” SB just shrugged. “Wait, you not gettin cold feet are you?”

“No. I’m ready now. But, I mean you’re not worried or anything?” She turned over resting her chin on his chest, looking into his eyes searching for some security.

“Nah, why would I be? I know where we stand. But you don’t seem to.” Sliding Nicki off to the side SB rolled out of the bed, shuffling around the dim lit room throwing on a pair of basketball shorts. Nic sat up still wrapped up in a cocoon.

“Where you goin?” He didn’t answer. “Safaree I want this as much as you, I’m just sayin…”

“Do you wanna be happy?” He interrupted.

“Of course”

“Then stop lettin other people decide for you and make the choice yaself.”

“Ok, just don’t walk out. You just came back.” He never had any real intention on leaving.  Nic unraveled the covers from around her, revealing her unclothed body. “Wanna get under? It’s warm.”

“Or we can hop in the bath.” It was time for round two.

“We could but I wouldn’t wanna get this wet.” She wiggled her fingers expecting to show off a pink rock but her ring finger was naked. She stared blankly where the missing diamond should be.

“Where’s ya ring?” SB wondered.

“I…I don’t know.” Confusion replaced her blank expression.

“Stop playin.” He skipped through the bathroom door and turned on the hot water; pouring bath salt into the pooling tub. Nicki sat awkwardly on the edge of the bed. He thought it was a joke but the truth was, she didn’t know.


 -TBC-
Round 2 baybayyyyyy!!!
Side note:  where's the ring??? oooooooooooooooo where dat bitch @???

The "Come" Back

Chapter  13     The “Come” back

The living room was quiet and less appealing without the lady of the house gracing its space. Still contemplating his next move Safaree sat in the exact spot he’d been in since Nicki left. She was in the shower now, the sound of the cascading water trailed out of the bedroom. A mental image of that scene played in his mind followed by the obvious question “why aren’t you in there?” He was home now for good, and things would only stand still if he made it. Needing no more motivation SB was on his feet headed through the bedroom removing articles of clothing along the way. Shoes went first, socks, watch, shirt, jeans leaving on only his boxers. Steam blew into his face as he opened the door. Nicki didn’t react to the intrusion. His mission was thrown off by big words on the mirror written in pink lipstick that read “I missed daddy” In that moment he was at the shower doors unsure of when he’d removed his boxers. Stepping inside, the scorching water covered his body; each drop glistened against his contours under the shower heads muted blue light. It was the finest sight she’d ever seen and when he smiled, her body trembled and she couldn’t wait for him to put his hands all over her. He leaned in, kissed her softly on the cheek and whispered “you smell good enough to eat.” The steam was a thick cloud that radiated; encouraging. SB scooped Nicki into his arms and went for the bedroom, she leaned and spelled “mine” with her tongue against his neck as his muscles flexed around her burning skin. They dropped to the floor, not making it to the bed. The wood was cool against their skin and now soaking wet. Taking it slow he massaged her, his fingertips caressing her dripping body; Kissing a path from her waist, down her thigh, and calf before gently brushing his lips against the arch of her foot. Then slowly he went down, savoring; the world seemed to dissolve and disappear. In this fiery bliss every inch of their bare skin vibrated and seared with each stoke, each touch. The nails at his back urged him deeper. While her legs parted as far as they could go, he tightened his grip until there was no space between them.

“You missed daddy huh?” His voice trembled through shallow breaths. She tried to answer through the stream of moans building in her chest.

“Say it.”

“I missed daddy” She uttered between a breathless series of pants. He placed his lips at the center of her neck and claimed it as his own. She writhed as his tongue brushed against her sensitive skin, hands clinging around his neck, holding him captive. The Egyptian cotton sheets started calling from the bed as the hard floor got too cold. Never disrupting the contact SB moved them to the king bed sliding down on his back; loving the feel of Nicki’s weight on top. Slowly she rode, legs quivering uncontrollably. His strong hands re-explored her curves leaving no place untouched.  Smoldering sweat glazed their skin and dampened the sheets. The room became a blur, faded by the thick heat in the air. A passion to never be forgotten, a body exchange; He was hers and she was his, for eternity. Bound by a love so strong it ran soul deep. Their bodies intertwined to the steady rhythm of their heartbeats, until the rain, sunshine and the fall leaves turned to snow. He took her body through the four seasons until their spirits locked and wouldn't let go, until their bodies
couldn't cum anymore, he filled her cup until it overflowed and gave them both what they were owed.

-Cont.

Chapter 13 "The Come Back" Preview

Chapter  13     The “Come” back

The living room was quiet and less appealing without the lady of the house gracing its space. Still contemplating his next move Safaree sat in the exact spot he’d been in since Nicki left. She was in the shower now, the sound of the cascading water trailed out of the bedroom. A mental image of that scene played in his mind followed by the obvious question “why aren’t you in there?” He was home now for good, and things would only stand still if he made it. Needing no more motivation SB was on his feet headed through the bedroom removing articles of clothing along the way. Shoes went first, socks, watch, shirt, then jeans. Steam blew into his face as he opened the door. Nicki didn’t react to the intrusion. His mission was thrown off by big words on the mirror written in pink lipstick that read “I missed daddy” In that moment he was at the shower doors unsure of when he’d removed his boxers.

Skyscraper

Chapter 12      Skyscraper 

Nicki sat for almost fifteen minutes anxious to read the text that waited in her inbox, watching silently as the text alert light blink with irritation. She started the car before finally grabbing her blackberry from her bag and clicking on the text from “Safaree.”  Wait up for me” read the text.   A series of butterflies tickled Nicki’s stomach creating the widest grin across her face.  Either he was coming home or coming to visit, which one didn’t matter. The simple fact that instead of planning something for him, she decided the best way would be to just wing it.  Let things happen naturally.  The condo was just the way they’d left it. Nic spent most of her time in the bedroom never bothering to clean up their daily messes.  But her fresh excited glow now lit every dark corner.  Scurrying through the condo picking up random shoes and such on her way she shed her clothes and settled into Safaree’s burgundy “This stone is flawless” tee. Now the only chore was the wait, surely it would give her mind too much thinking time.  Instead the TV would have to be distraction enough.  In the living room a familiar smiling face still lay on the couch in the awkward position he was left in, Little faree stared back at her looking as lonely as she felt.

“I know I’ve neglected you but you don’t have to look at me like that.”  If the plump pink bear could roll his eyes, now would have been appropriate.

 “Fine. Let’s watch TV till daddy gets here” A giggle escaped her. So Safaree was “daddy” now, but she’d never let anyone know that not even him.  

 Dim light from the electric fireplace lit only as far as behind the couch, while the far away kitchen light partially lit the dining room and back hall. A heavy knock sounded from the door. Finally. Nic leapt from the couch with lil faree securely tucked under her arm, ran to the door and stopped. After taking a deep breath she slowly turned the knob, pulling the door open… and there he was staring down at her. An involuntary smile broke across her face, looking down her dark lashes casted a shadow against her smooth dimple dented cheeks. She was tiny standing there in front of him. So adorable holding the bear he’d won for her. This sight brought out an answering smile, half forced and half genuine. She moved to the side allowing him past. With an off sway SB made his way to the living room. The familiar environment welcomed him home with arms wide open. Without speaking he flopped down and lounged on one end of the couch, pretending to watch family guy but was intent on Nicki.

“You want anything?” She called from the kitchen.

“Nah , I’m good.” Besides her no. She returned with an ice tea lemon Snapple, taking a seat at the other end. One episode, two episodes come on and go off without one word being spoken.  Craving some type of conversation or contact Nic took the remote from the coffee table and turned the TV off, forcing Safaree to focus. In a swift movement she had one of his hands in both of hers, locking their gazes. At first she thought he would push her away. He didn’t.

“I’m sorry Faree. You don’t know how much.”

“I think I do. And I forgave you already didn't I.”

“Well you weren’t talking to me. I thought…” She trailed off.

“I wouldn’t be here if I didn’t.”  Silence. Nicki’s fidgeting spoke volumes.

“What?”

“So we good?” He just laughed at her, shaking his head.

“If you wanna get something off ya chest. Please do it now cuz…you actin mad weird.”

She waited until their eyes met again. “You keep saying you forgive me but it’s hard for me to believe you.”

“You want me to stay mad? Aight then I’m mad.” He joked. This was his way of attempting to brighten the mood. She didn’t laugh, just sat quietly while her eyes began to pool.

“I’m serious” It came out as a whisper.

“Are you….Don’t cry Nic.” He reached out for her. “Come here.” She lay on his chest, sinking into him as his arms banded around her, his upper body so muscled it enveloped her. Little faree was squished, suffocating in between them. They sat in silence taking in the scent and feel of one another. Remembering. Nothing felt better than this contact after being deprived of it for more than a week. Needing to re-explore him she moved her slightly trembling hands down his back winding them into a big fist around his waist and all the while, his warm exhalations caressed her cheek like an attentive lover.

“You know that I’ll never do that to you again right? And that I love you?”

“Mhm. Know it like I know my ABC’s”

She looked up at him. “Wait, you don’t know your ABC’s” Laughter between the two played happily throughout the wide open space.

“And you know I love you…right?”

"Know it like I know my ABC’s” She teased.

“The hell wit ya ABC’s” Laughter then silence.

“Can I ask you something?”

“What?” He wondered what question that would be, hopefully not one that would change the current mood of things.

“What did you do while you were away?”

“Man nothing. Absolutely nothing but sit on ma ass. What did you do while I was away?” His voice was a little antagonizing.

“I did what I had to.”

“And did that include…”

“Yes it included Drake. But I don’t wanna talk about him anymore. It’s just us.”

“Fine by me. Nice shirt by the way”

“Oh you like this?” She twirled the hem around her finger. When her gaze lifted to his face again, he traced a fingertip of her lips.

“I missed you” Feeling his warm gentle touch and hearing those words with such sincerity ignited spears of pleasure, traveling through her bloodstream, leaving no part of her unaffected.

“I missed you more” But he already knew that. She couldn’t have made it any more obvious. “Ok so I’ll just apologize one last time just to be sure you…”

“Shhh” He interrupted and claimed her lips with his own. She pulled away only to lift the hem of “his” shirt revealing her unclothed thigh.

“Where ya panties at?” She just smiled.

“I don’t have any” She shrugged while he raised an eyebrow. He stared for a moment pondering. Was it too soon or just what they needed?

“Go to sleep Nicki” His tone had an eye roll edge. Determined to have him all the way back she laid back and jerked him down. He could have resisted but didn’t. He allowed himself to fall on top of her. They remained in this embrace for a while, simply looking at one another, his body pinning her down. After a while he got up smiling, leaving her alone on the couch. A frown began to pull at the corners of her mouth. Never speaking SB strode through the living room toward the bedroom, turning around only once to look Nic in the eyes before disappearing through the door into their dark room.

~TBC~  ;)

This Is It

Chapter 11      This Is it

Glad to have made somewhat of an amends with SB, Nicki began her drive home. Feeling two times better as she did before seeing him, the next logical decision was to finally clear the air with Drake and relieve any tension or unanswered questions once and for all. When she arrived back to his condo, he looked as if he’d been crying. His eyes were red and slightly puddled and he smelled of alcohol.

“You’re back.” Shock was clear in his sudden ecstatic tone accompanied by a slight drunken edge.

“I am” Walking past him she took a seat at the breakfast bar where was clearly sitting before she showed up. A half empty glass sat next to a bottle of patron.

“Have you been drinking?”

“A little” The amount left in the bottle said differently. “Okay a lot. Only you can make me do that.”

“I don’t want you to”

“Then I won’t” He shoved the glass and bottle into the sink and took his place on the stool, slouching forward.  “Anything you want.”

“What’s wrong?” He asked holding her hand when she hadn’t spoken or looked his way. Instead of ripping it away she left her hand in his.

“I need you to hear me. I mean really hear me. Are you listening?”

“Course I am. What’s on your mind?” Now he held her hand in both of his, while lazily swaying in a nearly drunken stupor.

“Me and you…”

“What about us?” The fact that she brought them up without his help excited him. Finally she was ready for him.

“That’s just it, there is no us. As friends yes I love you but not in any other way.” Having to speak these words was a lot harder then she’d imagined.

“Don’t say that” Those pools that were present in Drake’s eyes before Nicki’s arrival were back.

“I am saying it. Nothing between us will change I promise. But it’s me and Safaree and I need you to respect that. I accept the cute little flirty things you do and say because that’s just how you are. But you can’t go beyond that ever.”

“C’mon Nicki don’t…What did I do wrong? Why can’t it be me?” His strong hands were gripping her arms, his desperate expression was overwhelming.

“You did nothing wrong Drake it’s just not the same with you.” Standing up between his legs Nicki wiped his tears away.

“I need you” He whispered leaning into her touch.

“You still have me. I’m not going anywhere”

“I need you the way he has you. I just wanna be here for you” He had her hands again.

“Then be here for me”

“I’m trying, but you won’t let me! Every time you push me away!” He was on his feet, throwing his hands in air.

“If you learned how to take NO for an answer we wouldn’t be here right now!”

“If you could just realize that you love me the way I love you!”

A deep sigh escaped her. “If you’d just realize that I don’t.”

A horrified expression dominated Drake’s features, he stood unmoving.

“I’m sorry.” Nic regretted how that came out. “You know we don’t have to do this each other.”

“Yeah. “ He calmly plopped down on the cushioned stool. “I guess you really mean it huh?”

“Yeah.” She followed suit, and sunk down onto the empty stool. It was silent for a while, the light rain misted outside the windows.

“You know I'm never gonna give up."

"Yeah, I figured that" Silence.

 "But I’ll always be here. You know if you ever change your mind and if I haven't driven you away.” Drake smiled. The mood was lighter now. Like the silence cleansed the tension. Nicki’s answering laugh lit the dull room. Though the circumstances were the same, this new acceptance and understanding made it easier to bare. It was almost twelve, in an instant Nic decided to get away before another depressing comment or question spurred.

“I hate to go but my pillow’s calling” She chimed rising from the imprinted stool cushion.

“You can sleep over if you want. So you don’t have to drive.” An evil glare was her answer.

“I know I’m just joking. I’ll walk you out.” Hand in hand Drake walked Nicki to the door. “Feel free to stop by anytime”

“mhmm” This time when leaving out the back door of the building, seeing the light reflecting off of her pink diamond didn’t bring a feeling of guilt and dread but curiosity and anxiousness. Would the one who bestowed the pink gem upon her be waiting at their condo? And if not should she make the move? Pulling out of the parking garage a buzz shook the blackberry resting on top of her louie bag. The text alert light blinked.

-           

-T- TBC ♥

Reservation

Chapter 10   Reservation

Pulling up to Morton’s an inevitable knot appeared in his stomach. A valet gentleman called “Richard” took the lovely task of parking the car, giving SB no more time to stall. He paced back and forth in front of the prestigious restaurant, attempting to pull himself together. Paying no mind to the curious wondering eyes he walked steadily through the large white doors. A gust of scents met him in the lobby; steak, lemons, sea foods, wine and lavender. Chatter floated about the large dining room. The cherry wood on crème décor was breathtaking. The precisely made wall and ceiling panels were a glowing cherry wood along with the cushioned chairs that accompanied each table. A playground of crème walls and table cloths matched it. Original Matisse paintings hung confidently against the walls while large flowerpots of lavender roses sat sparingly about. The perfect place for the two about a week ago. But now spurred teasing thoughts of how amazing the evening could have been.

“Can I help you sir?” A man in a flawlessly tailored suit asked. Suddenly Safaree felt out of place wearing his usual jean, tee, and fitted.

“Reservation for Onika”

“Ahh yes your date is already here. Straight back all the way down, last table on the left” He pointed before wondering off to assist others.

“Date” SB mumbled to himself. If only that man knew. Once he hit the corner no one else was present. At that moment, shoulders hunched Nicki rose from the table, preparing to give up and leave this torturous environment. It wasn’t until her gaze came up from the empty table that she spotted him. All movement between the two seized. His head tilted to the side as he studied her. He felt like she'd be different somehow, a stranger with an unfamiliar essence, someone he didn't recognize and did not know. Not "his" Nicki anymore but someone else’s. Drake's Nicki. But the mask she held was very familiar. The strained, disturbed, sleep deprived look she often had when things went horribly wrong but now had a hint of light beneath the rest. She appeared the same but the tension of the reunion reminded them of the reason they'd been apart.

Nicki couldn’t help but be in shock. If he hadn’t showed, how could she be upset? The reason would have come back to her. BUT in spite of all SB still came. For her. Unbearable guilt rose, consuming her completely. Since leaving Drake’s apartment nothing but regret rolled from her thoughts. So much about this uncontrollable thing they call love. With nothing but time to think in the car on her way, things began to become a little less blurry. With Drake it would never be more than “high school crush” feelings. In a way he went about things the wrong way. Just like most other guys she’s encountered in her life. Took one look and wanted all of her from the gate. Some things a girl should never rush, because if she does she’ll only hurt herself. And instead of trying to take things slow he wanted to jump right into a serious relationship. Instead of guiding her through maze and coming out together, he stood there lost in the dark with her. But the man standing right before her eyes worked with her to escape; became her best friend, before wanting anything more. He loved her in slow motion, removing the pressure, allowing her to take her time, really getting to know her. And the differences spoke volumes.

Unknowingly she sat back down, no longer wanting to leave, hoping SB would do the same. But before he came back to reality a chair was holding him up. When he got there he didn’t know. Their extended silence screamed around the table making all the other meaningless conversations inaudible. She spoke first.

"How have you been?" Fear of saying the wrong thing and driving him away was apparent in her voice.

"How do you think.” His rhetorical question came out harsher than he meant. She looked down at the lined up cutlery, fidgeting. SB’s stare was piercing, revealing every emotion he felt. The extravagant scenery meant absolutely nothing.

 “How are you tonight? Good?” The waitor asked. “Noah” was printed on his cherry colored nametag.

“Yes thank you” Nicki lied. “Can you give us a few minutes?”

“Sure, I’ll be around.” Noah strutted off. Silence.

"I just didn't think you'd come after..." Finishing the sentence was unnecessary.

"That’s why I came. I wanna know why. Do you really love me?”

Moisture began to pool in her big eyes. “Of course I do, Safaree you know this.”

“Then why’d you do it?” His voice broke, unsure if he was prepared for an honest answer. Her next few statements were intelligible, nothing but nervous babbling. He decided to make the question easier.

“Do you love him?” She flinched away from the question, not knowing how to answer. She did love him, but not in the same way she loved SB. The difference she loved Drake, but she was in love with Safaree. And somehow she’d have to reassure him of his place in her heart.

“I guess I have my answer.” In an attempt at protecting himself from further disappointment SB got up from the table.

“Don’t leave” she pleaded reaching out. Closing his eyes in surrender SB sat back down.

“You’re gonna tell me something. I’m not gonna be walking around looking stupid.”

“And I don’t want you to. I didn't mean for any of this to happen. I know I hurt you and I’m so sorry. I wasn’t myself that night, I needed someone and Drake was there. He helped the void I felt when you weren’t around.”

Safaree listened intently, not knowing what to think or say. He said nothing.

“Even so, you were the one I wanted. He’s important to me yes, but I don’t need him. I need you. He will never come before you.” Her desperate eyes begged for his understanding, needing him to believe her.

“Do you love him?”

“Yes. But not in that way. Safaree he and I will never be anything. I need you to be confident in that. I know I’ve done things to make you think otherwise but you’re all I want and I'm sorry for making you question that.”

Noah was approaching the table again; SB waved him off. Nicki laid her hand on the table out to him. His thumb traced her palm. A jolt of electricity shot through her. She’d been deprived of his touch for too long.

“Are you gonna say something?” He hadn’t spoken much since they’ve been there.

“What do you want me to say Nicki?” Even saddened and confused his voice still wrapped around her name like a caress. “That I forgive you. I do. But I’m not about to act like everything is back to normal.”

That response came as a surprise but wasn’t unexpected. Her face drooped even lower. “I know. Just come home, we can’t fall apart like this.” His finger continued to dance circles in her palm.

“We’re not gonna fall apart. I just don’t know what I wanna do yet. Were you planning to eat?”

“No” She replied in a stern voice. “I’m not hungry. I only came to see you.”

“Me either. Let’s get outta here” SB got up from the table and waited for Nicki to follow. Side by side they walked through the dreamy restaurant out into the dry LA heat. A slight drizzle rained down from the dark blue misty sky. Nicki hoped that this was it. That Safaree was going to go home with her and this whole miserable ordeal could be locked away in the past. She waited alone while SB went to get their keys from the valet. He looked so much different than when he first came in, relieved as was she. With a half smile he led her to “his” car that she drove over.

“I love you” His voice was hushed. The light visible in her eyes when she’d first saw him walk in was back times two.

“I love you” Sincerity backed the three words. A slight kiss on the forhead was all he left behind before wandering to his newest Ferrari and driving away.

P.s Tweet me review this time dammit…y’all just be leaving me hanging with no feedback…sheesh help a bitch out -____-

The Only EXCEPTION

Chapter 9   The Only EXCEPTION

 

The night sky was as dark as the room. How long would this emptiness last? Over a week without the one; living in a meaningless hotel suite, alone; nothing but time on his hands. The faded smell of alcohol and a constricting lonely fog was his only company. Sleepless nights, late night drives, blaring music, room service and drinks galore was a routine that quickly became an exhausting nuisance. What was first a combination of rage, pain, betrayal, and shock simmered down to one thought. “What now?” and “Where do we go from here?”

He lay against the back of the maroon couch in the large suite living room, feet propped up on the smooth leather coffee table. Trays with left over scraps of food sat lazily at the corner. Lights as dim as his will to continue on. The noisy crash of ice falling into the freezer tray made the ongoing silence volumes louder, and it was driving him insane. For over a week he waited for a phone call, even a text message that never came. Only heightening the situation, spurring more distasteful thoughts. Why hadn’t she tried to talk to him, he wondered. Did she move on? Was she with “him”? He needed answers, and would get them tonight. Memories of he and Nicki making dinner reservations for this very night greeted him. He sank deeper into the creases of the couch, wondering if she’d show up or if she even remembered. And there was only one way to find out. Despite everything he’d go to her. The situation at hand needed to be fixed. She still ran through his mind even though he knew she shouldn’t be. He’d been sitting in the dark for too long, living life on his own waiting for something to happen. Until a conclusion drew itself up. He was that something, that he and Nicki have been waiting on. Without him stepping to the plate nothing would be resolved. There were questions to be answered and a tension that needed to be released.

Embracing his sudden epiphany he rose from the lush couch and slogged through the suite to his bedroom. Hurriedly sifting through his scattered clothes pilled on the dresser. According to the set time he was already forty-five minutes late. Still he wanted nothing more than to see her when he walked in, though he doubted there was any chance of that happening; considering the present circumstances and the fact that he was late. Hoping she wanted to see him as much as he wanted to see her, he charged through the front door and staggered down the hall.

Heavy rain battered the windshield as he pulled out from the garage, the engine sneered back as the car accelerated. His attempts at rushing were futile against the raging LA traffic. Anticipation and worry furrowed his brow. Still afraid of arriving to an empty table SB pressed on.

“Nicki, I’m coming” He whispered, hoping she could somehow hear him. 

P.S 

oh boy what's gonna happen you guys??? *nervous face* LMFAOOOO!!!
oh and *PAUZ* on coming :)

Me & You

Chapter 8   Me & You

Drake’s apartment was smooth and tidy. Somewhat off for a grown man, it had a slight feminine touch. The sun peeked through the wall of reflective windows across the room. The walls were an incredibly off white, almost tan, complimented by a series of black paneling and white couches. The hardwood floors were dark almost matching the wall panels.

He led Nicki to the wet bar that divided the kitchen from the living room. Two blue lights hung overhead. Drake had completely screwed her over just a week ago; he hoped there would be no awkwardness between them. The plan was not to do anything to bring it up or move in to quick & hopefully everything would be okay. He leaned against the opposite side of the bar.

“Hungry?” It was 11 o’clock, brunch time. And cooking was always a stress releaser. And she loves to cook. At the moment that was the best way to go.

She sucked in a breath and exhaled. “Yes”

“Iight cool. I’ll make some pancakes, egg whites and turkey bacon for us”

“Okay” She replied staring out the large window behind her. Her reluctant attitude discouraged him heavily.  But he did wrong and he knew he’d have to be patient with her. If he did things just right, she’d come around. Turning the iHome on to a random station that played old school dance records, he began digging through the fridge. As the butter fell into the pan, “The twist” by Chubby Checker danced through the speakers. For a moment Drake was embarrassed at this, but played along once he began to dance and Nicki laughed. It was a light sound, like maybe just maybe she wasn’t so miserable.

“Come on Nicki, let’s twist” He chimed through laughter.

“Umm, I don’t think so”

“C’mon” He skipped around the bar grabbing her hands and pulling her into the kitchen. When she still refused he gripped her arms maneuvering her, forcing her to perform the ridiculous dance. And to his surprise she didn’t object but allowed the silly dance to happen, and enjoyed it.

“The Butter!” She shouted as smoke jumped from the pot.

“Shit!” The scorching pot was thrown into the sink. After the mishap Nicki took over breakfast duty.

“You know you washing these right?” She teased once their plates were nearly empty.

“Of course I got it. I wouldn’t let you wash dishes.” He smiled, taking the dishes from the counter and carelessly tossing them into the sink.

“Can I offer you a drink?” He walked to and opened the fridge.

“Kay, What ya got?”

He dug around. “Uhhhh Moscato, vitamin water, coke, ummm juice.”

“What kind of juice?”

“uhhh the red kind? And lemonade.”

Nicki chuckled lightly. “The red kind? No thanks. Lemonade for me.”

“Gotcha” Drake grabbed a glass from the cabinet and poured her drink.

“This place is new. When did you move here?” She wondered aloud. He was watching intently as she parted her lips to sip her drink, hardly noticing she asked a question.

“Pardon?”

“Your new apartment, when did you move here?” She repeated.

He shrugged. “Couple months ago”

Nicki was unzipping her jacket, taking it off and throwing it over the back of her chair when Drake walked up beside her.

"You look very beautiful in your laid back outfit today” he said admiring her figure. Nicki looked down and smiled.

 "Thank you." was all she could afford to say as she turned around to face him. They stared at each other for a while wonder in her eyes and desire in his. He held her hand in his for a moment before pulling her into an embrace.

"Thank you for coming over and giving me a chance to make things right between us. I am truly sorry." Nicki backed away just a step.

“Stop apologizing okay? You’re not the only one to blame.” She finally admitted to someone other than herself. This sparked a look in his eyes, a look she couldn’t quite decipher. He suddenly extended his hand out. Without objecting she accepted, he escorted her out the glass patio doors at the back of the living room to the lounge area on the patio. A breeze twirled about as the weather seemed to shift, temperature dropping slightly. The sun was still shining bright but grey clouds were approaching threatening dominance.

“Wow” She exclaimed as she gently stroked the soft material of one of the lounge chairs before making herself comfortable. Drake settled in the cushioned wicker chair next to her.

“I know, I love the view.” He said pointing into the distance at the beautiful view of LA. It was a comfortable silence until Drake couldn’t resist asking a series of questions that simmered in his mind from “that” night.

“What happened that night?” He started.

“What?” Confusion banked her features at his random question.

“I mean why did you have me come over that night?” His voice was aching. Nicki silently stared at the harsh clouds rolling in with purpose.

“You decided to come over. I didn’t tell you to.” Whispers were all she could force out.

“But when I asked if you wanted me to, you didn’t say no”

“Why would I have?” She wrapped her arms around herself as a heavy breeze rushed past. Drake was now behind her chair, hands on her shoulders.

"We can go inside if it's too cold. I think a storm is coming." he said softly.

“No. I’m fine.” She simply shook her head, ignoring the rising wind. Drake slid his hands up and down her arms, attempting to warm them before returning to his seat next to hers. She was positive about what he was getting at with the questions, but wondered why he wouldn’t just spit it out.

"It's okay. I know what you really want to know." she blurted out, hands in her lap.

“Huh? I was just asking…”

“Drake, don’t play with me. You know what I’m talking about!” She nearly yelled. He stood, throwing his hands up in surrender.

“Nicki, I just wanted to know…”

“If I wanted you to come over in place of Safaree?” Screams.  “Right?”

Drake's face fell. He didn't want to lie but he knew if he told her the truth she would leave. But he didn't have to say anything; she looked into his eyes which confirmed everything. She jumped up, marched through the glass patio doors, snatched her jacket from the couch and headed for the door. Drake wasn’t far behind. He grabbed her hand to stop here before she reached the front door and moved in front of it. She crossed her arms over her chest.

Nicki, don't be mad.” He pleaded. “I just need to know. But you had to want me there and to hold you for a reason. I just want you to talk to me about it. I need know how you're feeling right now."

She dropped her arms to her sides. "I don't know." she sighed. "I'm sorry I even let you”

“I’m not. You don't know how bad I want to hold you right now. For a long time I been wondering if I’m wasting both our time, but I know it’s something there. Tell me you don't feel it when we're together.” He said grabbing her hands, pulling her closer. She held her breath. His truths were undeniable.

"You let me be there for you that night. I kissed you and for a minute you kissed me back, so I know it’s something there.” He put his hand to her chin and lifted her head so he could look into her eyes and she could see into his. Words eluded her. The hard patter of rain sounded off the glass doors.

“Nicki…” He whispered lowering his head, leaning in a kissing her lips, lightly then more intensely. His heart fluttered as he released her hands and wound his around her waist. She moved her hands up his chest and gripped his shirt. Everything he’d ever wanted for them was coming true in this moment. He reached down and lifted, cradling her in his arms laying her onto the smooth, white couch. Knowing what could happen if he pushed his luck too far, he pulled back smiling down at Nicki who surprisingly grinned back but had so much sorrow behind her big brown eyes. Taking the best approach he could think of the physical would be at a minimum, instead Drake shuffled through the huge dvd collection in the oversized entertainment center and pulled out Gladiator. One of her favs. He pulled the curtain over the huge doors and cut all the lights before flopping down next to Nicki. Who within the first hour had yawned herself to sleep, passing out on Drake’s leg. No amount of money, fame or jump offs could compare with this. Now the question was how long was this to last? If SB came back into the picture would he lose her again? There was no doubt in his mind; if only he could manage to win her over for good. But from the man she loved and been with the majority of her life was a difficult task, maybe one that couldn’t be solved by anyone. Impossible. But he’d cross that road later, right now he lived in the sky.

Drake held Nicki for several hours while she napped, hopefully reviving her body and soul. How long would she stay? Time was his enemy, evening hours quickly sneaking up on him, but he refused to wake her. Not even after he stripped her of her shoes and jacket, revealing delicate feet and a gray tank that clung to her curves, his blood boiled at this sight. It was just almost 8. It’s been almost 8 hours since their brunch. He was hungry, but he wanted Nicki more than wanted to eat. To hold her…hear her steady, sleep-rumbling sighs. But surely she’d be hungry as well. He would wake her to spend more time, though he tried to convince himself it was to make dinner. He caressed a fingertip over the curve of her cheek.

“Nicki. Wake up for me.” A soft groan parted her lips. “Nicki” He repeated. She rolled onto her back, stretching taking in her surroundings. To her surprise she wasn’t where she neither expected to be nor was with the person she expected to be with. But with someone she felt for and was happy around. Waking up this time was not her ideal way but wasn’t as bad as the past few days, and for that she was grateful.

“What time is it?” She wondered sitting up now.

“Almost 8. I was just about to make some dinner. Care to join me?”

She leapt of the couch scanning the perimeter for her shoes and jacket. “Can’t, I’m sorry. I have to go”

His biggest fear was in effect as was hers as reality struck. “awww man. Alright.” Instead of begging her to stay if he wanted things to work he had to do things differently. He would let her go. Handing over her heels, he frowned to himself. Nicki adjusted her jacket starting for the door.

“So I’ll see you later?” Drake wondered.

“I don’t know. I just…” She whispered before walking slowly down the empty hallway. Drake watched over her until she was on the elevator and out of sight. Once on the large concrete stairs behind the complex, she leaned against the wet iron rail. The rain had subsided but threatened to return at any given time. The bright light on the wall caught a glimpse of the large shiny pink ring that rested soundly on her finger; reminding her who she was with and brought back the memories of why she was with him. She had reservations at 8 with her match. Something that was planned over a week in advance, for this specific night they had off before rehearsals were to begin. Would he still show up? Would she if the positions were reversed? Her mind could not comprehend the situation. She was sure she wanted Safaree always, but couldn’t understand why Drake was so important. If things were reversed she’d go to him, so she hoped with all her heart that he’d do the same. Getting into “his” old car rain fell against the windshield, she watched with ultimate confusion as the condo complex faded into nothingness in the distance.

~TBC~

*sighamese twins* me and my Soap Opera ways :/