Untitled

After that rather unfortunate event, Smoke’s girl decided it would be best if they didn’t try that again. The pair had attempted to make it up to her, and while she was elated to have Smoke and Annie making her body scream while her feet touched the headboard, it wasn’t enough for the lingering thoughts and memories and doubts to subside.

Smoke sat up in bed.

It was late as hell, and his girl was sleeping peacefully beside him, but his mind couldn’t rest. He was stuck thinking about Annie and wondering what she was doing—if she was up thinking about him, too. Since his girl had put an end to things, he hadn’t had much of a chance to see Annie. She’d come over to hang out or pick his girl up for a trip to the mall, but he kept his distance as best he could. Annie was addictive; Annie was everything he thought of now, and he knew it wasn’t right. His girl didn’t deserve to be treated that way, but when his mind would drift back to Annie, he couldn’t care any less about her feelings.

Huffing silently into the still night air, the man’s back hit the headboard before he reached to retrieve his phone from the nightstand. Beside him, his girl was curled up in the sheets, and when she sensed his movements, she groaned, touching his leg in a need for closeness. It always amused him how much she wanted him even in sleep, but he was on a mission, so stilling his body, he went to work.

His phone illuminated the ceiling. It shined over his face—stoic as always—and it took him no time at all to find Annie’s contact. She had put it in his phone that day when his girl had gone to the bathroom. In the time that she’d been away from them, Annie had added her number, texted herself, deleted the message, and made him a promise to figure this out while kissing the edge of his mouth. All he could do in that moment was listen, nod his head, and kiss her full and on the lips.

But neither of them had reached out.

Neither of them had the courage.

Smoke swore he was waiting for the right time, and Annie was waiting for him to make the first move. Anxiety causing his fingers to tremble, Smoke was beginning to think he’d get no better time than the present.

You up?

The first text was simple. He was a man of few words, a man who didn’t beat around the bush too often. His stomach thumped in anticipation and regret, but when three dots rose in the bottom left corner, his nostrils flared.

i am thought you’d never text me

You got my number, too. You coulda made the first move

you don’t know who you talkin to, do you? i don’t make the first move. i don’t chase no man or woman. they chase me

So you consider this me chasin you?

it is one in the morning, smokey. what else you doin if you ain’t tryna get into some mess?

His jaw clenched at the nickname, at how easily she had read him, but all it really did was stoke the flames and make him want her more. He looked down at the woman clinging to his legs. His eyes immediately focused on the phone once again.

She sleep beside me. So I can’t do much.

He felt raw with need as he texted her, wide open for her to see all of him, but he didn’t mind it. His mind flashed back to that day when they had gotten so inwrapped in each other that all they could do was keep going. There was a closeness between them that he couldn’t make sense of; All he knew was that he needed her again.

Smoke watched the curser blink as the delivered message stared back at him. He quickly moved to type once more.

I been thinkin bout the other day.

me too, baby i been needin you so bad it’s too hard to ignore

Shit. I been thinkin bout just givin in

i think you should. we’ve fucked already anyway, so just let it happen

Fuck. We doin this fr?

if you want to, smokey. come over to my place tomorrow

Bet.

And without much effort or tooth pulling, Smoke gave in and let go. He went to Annie’s home the next day. And the day after that. And the day after that. He was with Annie whenever he could get a chance, coming and going as he pleased, and she welcomed him with open arms and a heart free of guilt.

It had made her feel like shit at first, but how could you blame her? Smoke knew how to take care of every single one of her needs, and her friend should have been focused on keeping that good dick on lock. It wasn't her fault that the threesome had awakened something in her, a side that needed Smoke just as much as he needed her. And with time, they just grew more attached to each other, completely uncaring for how this would impact themselves and others.

~~~~~

Bent over the center console with her heels rooted into the floor of the backseat, Annie muffled her moans as Smoke stroked her deeply. They were in his truck, parked in the middle of an abandoned lot, and although they were trying to be inconspicuous, the way he was thrusting into her had the truck rocking back and forth.

"Take this shit, baby," Smoke growled, smacking the side of her ass. It had become a force of habit now because he couldn't just watch that ass bounce on him and not touch her. She was addicting, and the more time they spent together, the easier it was to have her body screaming.

Unsuccessful in her attempts to shush herself, Annie cried his name, begged him to let her cum. As much as she needed the relief, they both had places to be that didn't involve each other. And the longer they went at it like this, the more their schedules were getting pushed back and the closer they were to this situation being ruined.

Behind her, sweat beaded on Smoke’s forehead. If you asked him, the man would swear that he and Annie were molded for each other—perfectly created for this moment. He knew where he had to be, knew that Annie had plans too, but he was losing himself in this, in her.

His strokes shifted out of rhythm as he began to feel his body tighten in every muscle. Anticipation grew, and his eyes clouded over.

Barking out a command for her give it to him, Smoke continued to fuck Annie through her orgasm. When her moans turned to whines, his chest expanded at the glorious sound; And with little effort, he let go into the condom, sinking back into the car seat for reprieve.

"You know she settin' up a double date, right," Annie huffed. She fixed her skirt, pulling it back down to an appropriate length and unsuccessfully smoothing out the wrinkles.

The man beside her was fully relaxed into the seat, mind blank. His eyes were closed, head tilted toward the ceiling as the after effects of his orgasm soothed his exhausted body; But as he registered her words, dread filtered through him.

"A double date with who," Smoke questioned wearily. His voice had a groggy note to it, but his fear and irritation shined through.

"You two and me and the nigga I'm seein' right now," she rolled her eyes in annoyance. Without even taking the chance to look, she knew the expression he wore on his face: one of confusion; one of betrayal. They'd never talked about her new man, and quite frankly, she wasn't ready to have this conversation with him, but they both needed to get on one accord if they were going to be able to pull this date night off without acting like people who have fucked each other more than once.

She pretended to be engrossed in her phone, biting at her bottom lip as she felt the anger course through him.

"Well, you must be confused 'cause the only nigga you seein' is me," Smoke boomed. Chest heaving, the man shook his head, finally gaining awareness of his surroundings again. Empty parking lot. In the backseat of his truck. Half naked. With his girl’s friend.

Hastily, he fixed his clothes and set the used condom to the side before turning in the woman's direction. But she refused to look him in the eye, refused to speak.

"Don't piss me off, Annie," he exasperated, shaking his head in disbelief.

"You can't claim me, Smoke," the woman reasoned, arms wrapped tightly under her chest. Her eyes finally flashed over his body, and when they settled on his eyes, she could tell just how torn he was. The emotion made her blood boil. "You got her, so I can fuck around with whoever I want."

"So you fuckin' this nigga, too," Smoke thundered, arms flailing as everything felt like it was hitting him at once. He didn't have time to listen to reason. All he knew was that Annie belonged to him—whether it was fair to feel that way or not.

"I'm not fuckin' nobody but you, so don't even go there for real," she argued, hand in his face as she put emphasis on each word. "You shouldn't be worried 'bout shit when you got a whole bitch at home waitin' for yo' cheatin' ass like a dummy."

Taken aback, Smoke revved his head back, brows pulling together.

"That's yo' damn friend, too, so if you feel any better in this situation than I do, you the dummy," he chastised, pointing a finger right back at her. "I ain't even touched her ass for real since we started doin' this 'cause I'm tryna be faithful to you."

"Oh my God! Do you hear yourself," Annie laughed, completely astonished. "You talkin' 'bout bein' faithful like you ain't doin' wrong to somebody else."

"Whatever," Smoke tsked, rolling his eyes and letting his back meet the seat again. He ain’t feel like explaining it to her, but the way he saw it, his relationship was over. It was over when she decided to bring someone new in the equation. It was over when she made him feel like he wasn’t enough. Breathing deeply, he cut his eyes at Annie, leveling her with a look. "I just know you better not show up wit' no other nigga," he warned.

"You don't own me, Smoke" she shouted in response, and as she continued to curse him out and call him every name in the book, Annie climbed out of the backseat and slammed the door shut. Smoke watched her with an angered expression, but no matter how upset he was, he still ensured she made it safely to her car parked nearby. Defeated, he watched he skirt out of the abandoned parking lot, leaving him behind.

~~~~~

A week passed without word from Annie. Smoke texted and called and even showed up at her house a couple of times, but she refused to speak with him. In her mind, she was a grown ass woman who could do whatever she wanted because Smoke wasn’t her man. But in his mind, Smoke was her nigga and her only nigga.

When his girl told him about the double date, he made sure to respond appropriately. Not overly surprised. Not overly excited or interested. He made sure to seem somewhere in the middle because the way he responded to Annie was not how he needed to show up here. He needed to be as neutral as possible, and while he did the best he could, he could tell that his girl had picked up on something in his response.

Whether it be the uptick of his pulse, the tightening of his jaw, or the tremble of his hands, he knew she saw something—and there was no burying the realization that had popped up in her head.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

word count: ~2,000

a/n: shit's getting messyyy. what y'all thing gon happen at the double datee?

taglist: comment HERE to be added!

Wunmi had always tried to be careful. Especially after that day in his trailer.

She tried not to think about it anymore. But it seemed that moment lived inside of her.

And now there was someone else in the picture.

He was a steady, consistent man who always made time for her. He preferred to show up rather than to supply her with hopes and dreams. He was uncomplicated in the ways Michael had never been.

So when flowers arrived, she immediately knew who they were from.

They were white lilies and deep green stems, graceful and beautiful without being too showy. Which was exactly Michael’s taste.

The note attached was simple: Congratulations on the nominations. So proud of you.

A smile graced her face before she could stop it. Not thinking much about it, she pulled out her phone and snapped a quick picture for her Instagram story.

Thank you brother for the flowers! @/michaelbjordan

And just after she posted it, her phone vibrated. She looked at it and her stomach dropped.

Don’t ever call me that again.

Suddenly, the distance she had been maintaining felt like a joke she was the only one taking seriously.

Across the room, her boyfriend was talking about dinner plans, scrolling through something on his phone, completely unaware of what was happening right under his nose.

Wunmi kept her face neutral and voice steady.

She didn’t reply to Michael because replying meant acknowledging that he still had access to her attention in a way no one else did. And he knew it.

The next morning’s interview was supposed to be simple.

Michael arrived first looking so relaxed with an easy smile. He turned his charm up to the max. The room easily fitting around him.

Wunmi arrived five minutes later and if anyone was truly paying attention they noticed the shift between them.

The interviewer started with simple questions about their characters and on screen chemistry. Nothing that they weren't used to at this point.

Michael answered steadily, and Wunmi followed, just as composed. But every time their answers overlapped, it felt like the real words between them were being held back.

At one point, the interviewer stated, “You two have such an interesting dynamic off-screen too. You seem very comfortable with each other.”

It should’ve been harmless, but it felt like the first domino to fall.

Michael looked at Wunmi long enough to not be obvious to everyone else but her.

“I think we just understand each other well,” he said smoothly.

Wunmi gave a small smile. But her fingers tightened in her lap.

“Yeah, we do,” she agreed.

Because understanding, in their case, was the danger zone.

And Michael was very aware that the line she kept drawing wasn’t disappearing. He just didn't care.

The interview ended and the cameras stopped rolling, but neither of them left the room right away. The crew filtered out until it was just the two of them.

Michael stood near the edge of the set, loosening his cuffs. Wunmi stayed seated for a little longer, face calm and collected, showing no signs of disturbance. Except her eyes wouldn’t stop tracking him.

Finally, she stood up.

“You did that on purpose,” she said.

Michael didn’t look surprised. “Did what?”

“The way you looked at me. Don't pretend like you didn't know what you were doing,” she gestured vaguely, voice tight.

He fully turned toward her.

“I only answered a question.”

“Oh please. You tried to control everything with that one response.”

A small, humorless smile flickered at his mouth. “And you didn’t?”

Wunmi exhaled through her nose, stepping closer without meaning to. But she stopped herself from going further, knowing how things could get if they got too close.

“No, I didn't. I've always been very clear with you Michael,” she said carefully. "I have a boyfriend. I am not doing whatever this is with you. So I set some simple boundaries.”

“Simple boundaries huh?” Michael tilted his head. "None of this is simple and you know it. You're just avoiding it."

“That’s not fair.”

“The truth hurts, don't it?”

Wunmi laughed once, short and sharp. “So what am I supposed to say to you then?”

Michael’s gaze held hers without blinking.

“Start with calling me by my name,” he said. "Because I think you're not really ready to deal with what, who, I truly am to you. You try to slap a label on me as if that will change what you feel for me…and it won't."

Wunmi shook her head immediately. “Don’t psychoanalyze me.”

“You love me.”

“Don’t,” she warned.

Yet Michael didn’t stop.

“And I love you,” he added.

Wunmi’s voice came out rougher than intended. “That doesn’t mean anything.”

“I was never your 'brother' and you know it,” he said.

“And what do you want me to do with that, Michael?”

His jaw tightened, frustration bleeding through the restraint he’d been holding.

“I want you to stop running from me. From us, baby.”

Wunmi looked away just for a second. When she looked back, her voice was quiet, but firm. She was intent on keeping as much control as she could.

“I'm not going to lose control of my life because of feelings,” she said. “Not again.”

“Wunmi, baby, I'm not asking you to give up control you already don't have,” he said. "We know what we are, and it's clear, but you just don't like what it is."

Wunmi was laying against her pillow, phone tilted just low enough that the glow didn’t fill the whole room. Her boyfriend was beside her, one arm tucked behind his head, scrolling on his own phone.

She was scrolling through Instagram when Michael’s post popped up. It was a picture of him during the press day. Her fingers moved to type before she fully thought anything out.

Looking good brother 🔥🔥

Even with their conversation earlier, her comment was simple and yet said everything. She scrolled on trying not to think too much about it.

Ten minutes passed of aimless scrolling and tapping. Then she got a message.

Keep playing with me and see what happens.

Her eyebrows pulled together immediately.

She turned her head slightly, as she texted back.

What are you talking about?

Within seconds a screenshot in their messages appeared. It was her own comment that she had just made.

We just talked about this.

Wunmi exhaled through her nose. She was more annoyed now than anything else. She shifted slightly under the covers.

Boundaries. Remember?

Yeah okay

That was what Wunmi thought was the end of it.

Three dots appeared. Then disappeared. Then reappeared again.

Her grip tightened on the phone as she could tell he was trying to hold back fromsaying something else, but she didn't know what.

Her boyfriend shifted slightly beside her, “You okay?”

“Yeah, just work stuff,” she said too fast.

Just then another message came through. But it wasn't a text. It was a picture. A picture that made every bone in her body freeze up.

Michael was there, legs spread, shorts pulled down as he held himself. The thickness and how hard he was, was displayed boldly. And she could feel every bit of confidence radiating through the phone. He didn't care who she was around or who her attention was on because he knew she would stop just for him.

Her breath caught as she immediately angled her phone away, turning the brightness down.

“Babe, you good?”

She didn’t look up.

“I'm fine. It was nothing,” she said, softer now.

But her attention was locked to the screen.

September 7th, 1958

The afternoon sun poured through the classroom windows, making everything glow warm and golden. 

It was the last lesson of the day and Annie stood at the front of the room with a piece of chalk in her hand, trying her hardest to keep twenty-something restless children focused for just a few more minutes. 

It was Friday afternoon. The weekend was only moments away. Their little bodies were practically vibrating with excitement. Every few seconds somebody shifted in their seat.

Annie fought back a smile.

"Y'all can give me five more minutes," she said, tapping the chalk lightly against the board.

A few dramatic groans filled the room.

"Miss Annie," one little girl whined.

"Just a little longer."

And as she continued teaching, she noticed strange things were happening. The children kept exchanging secret little looks and whispers. A few of them kept reaching inside their desks and then quickly pulling their hands back out whenever she looked in their direction.

Her eyebrows pulled together in confusion because something was definitely going on. But before she could investigate, one of the students in the front row suddenly shot their hand into the air.

"Miss Annie!"

Annie stopped writing on the board, "Yes, baby?"

"We got a surprise for you!" The little girl bounced excitedly in her seat.

"A surprise?" she asked.

The child nodded so hard her braids bounced.

Annie looked around the room to see all the children were smiling at her. She was truly confused

"What kinda surprise?" she asked.

The children looked around at each other like they were making sure everyone was ready. Then all at once little hands dove into the openings of their desks. After grabbing what they were reaching for, they stood up. And the room exploded in noise as they all shouted happy birthday.

Annie gasped. Her hand flew to her chest so fast she almost dropped her chalk.

The children held up paper hearts. Some were cut perfectly, others looked like circles more than hearts. A few had glitter and crayon scribbles on. But every single one had something written on it.

"Oh my goodness..." Her voice cracked as she looked around, a little laugh coming out. Her eyes were starting to sting. 

Her heart was entirely too full as she took in every little face. This particualr first grade class had only been with her for a month, yet somehow these babies had warmed up to her quickly.

She knew who needed help tying their shoes, who hated number and reading, the ones who always forgot their materials. And apparently they knew her too.

"You surprised me alright," she admitted.

A little girl in the back practically vibrated with excitement, "You really was surprised?!"

"I was very surprised."

The entire room erupted into cheers.

Annie's eyes were soft and full of love as she said, "I love y'all so much."

At that statement it was like she opened the floodgates. The children jumped up from their spots and rushed her. Tiny arms wrapped around any place they could touch. Some of them squeezed so hard Annie nearly lost her balance.

Annie laughed helplessly while trying to hug all of them back.

The kids started screaming about how much they loved her, how they didn't want her to get old, and saying happy birthday over and over. 

In the middle of all the chaos, Lillian appeared in the doorway. Apparently, the noise from Annie's classroom had traveled down the hallway.

"Everything okay in here?" she asked.

Annie looked up from the sea of children attached to her. She was holding several of them while others continued waving their paper hearts in the air. 

"They just surprised me, that's all."

One little girl turned around proudly.

"We made Miss Annie happy birthday hearts."

Lillian looked on at the most adorable sight in front of her and smiled.

"Alright now, y'all don't squeeze her too hard. She gotta make it to her actual birthday tomorrow," she said finally. 

The children took that and started shouting about birthdays, cakes, presents, and ice cream. Lillian shook her head affectionately before stepping back into the hallway.

It took Annie a good while to get her classroom back under control. Every time she managed to get one child back in their seat, another one was popping up to give her one last hug or wave one of their paper hearts at her.

Eventually, after enough promises that she loved every single one of them and that she would absolutely remember their surprise forever, the children finally settled back into their desks.

The room buzzed with leftover excitement as Annie sat on the edge of her desk watching them pack up.

One of the kids stopped packing and turned to her with narrowed eyes, "Miss Annie?"

"Yes?"

"Does being twenty-six mean you're old?" the little boy tilted his head.

Several children gasped and a few looked at her concerned.

"Now why would you ask me something like that?" Annie bit her lip to keep herself from laughing.

"My mama say twenty-five is almost thirty and when you're thirty you get bad knees," the boy shrugged.

"Twenty-six ain't old," she managed to say.

The children seemed relieved.

"So you still young?"

Annie nodded, "Yes. Very young."

Thankfully, the final bell chose that exact moment to ring throughout the building. As they filed toward the door, many of them stopped beside her to give her a goodbye.

The room slowly emptied until the last child finally disappeared through the doorway.

Annie smiled softly before walking back toward her desk.

Usually she'd throw everything into a bag and grade it at home, but not today. Since tomorrow was her birthday, she had no intention of spending any part of the weekend hunched over papers. So, she settled into her chair and got to work.

The next hour passed and the school gradually emptied around her. When she finished, she stretched her arms above her head and groaned softly. She packed everything away, making sure to take extra care of the little paper hearts. 

After checking her classroom one last time, Annie switched off the lights and headed outside. The late afternoon air felt warm against her skin. She walked across the parking lot toward her car. The bright yelowl paint practically glowed in the sunlight.

She unlocked the door and loaded her things into the back seat. Then she slid in behind the steering wheel. A moment later she pulled out of the parking lot and headed home.

The entire ride home was a bit shorter than usual but it put Annie in an even better mood.

When she pulled onto her street, the late afternoon sun was beginning to soften into evening. The neighborhood was alive. Children were still playing outside, people sat on their front stoops, and music was playing from an open window. 

Annie eased her yellow car into her usual parking spot along the curb in front of the house. She gathered her purse, her grading bag, her lunch container, and her students' paper hearts before climbing out.

"Hey, Little Annie!"

She looked over and saw Mr. Jenkins and his wife sitting on their stoop across the street.

"Hey, Mr. Jenkins."

"How was work?"

"It was good."

"You ready for your birthday tomorrow?"

Annie smiled wide at the couple, "It seems like everybody's ready."

Mr. Jenkins laughed, " That's 'cause Annette been reminding people about it all week."

Annie rolled her eyes.

Mrs. Jenkins smiled.

"Happy birthday, baby."

"Thank you."

After another minute of chatting, Annie finally headed inside the house. She pushed the front door open, the familiar smell of food greeted her.

"Mama?" Annie called.

"In the kitchen."

Annie followed the sound of her grandmother's voice and sure enough, Mama Nette stood at the stove with an apron tied around her waist. Annie dropped her things on a nearby chair before leaning over and pressing a kiss against her grandmother's cheek.

"Hey, baby."

"Hey."

"How was work?" her grandmother patted 

Annie's face lit up.

"The kids did the cutest thing ever," She started digging through her bag. "They made me birthday paper hearts."

She pulled out several of them and spread them across the kitchen table.

Mama Nette turned from the stove long enough to look. A soft smile graced her face. The hearts were covered in drawings and messages.

"Well ain't that just sweet? This class must really love you."

Annie nodded her head as she sat down at the kitchen table. She kicked off one heel th the table and stretched her legs, "I guess they really do. They're really an interesting group. One of them asked me if turning twenty-six meant I was old."

Mama Nette let out a laugh that echoed through the kitchen, "What'd you tell 'em?"

"I told them twenty-six ain't old."

"'Cause it ain't. But it is grown."

"I guess," Annie hummed.

Despite turning twenty-six tomorrow, there were still moments where she felt seventeen or twelve…or seven. There were still times she wanted somebody else to make decisions for her. 

The conversation faded and the kitchen grew quiet for a few moments. The only sounds came from the food cooking and the occasional clink of utensils.

Annie leaned back in her chair while Mama Nette stirred a pot. Then, without turning around, she spoke.

"You been spending a lot of time with Elijah lately."

Annie already knew where this conversation was headed. Still, she answered casually.

"Well, we're together now. So…" She trailed off.

"Mhm."

"You know that."

"I know."

Annie eyed the back of her grandmother's head suspiciously, but Mama Nette kept cooking.

"You two together just about every day."

Now that they had finally gotten past their argument and officially started courting, it felt natural. If she wasn't at work, there was a good chance she was with Elijah. If she wasn't with Elijah, she was probably thinking about him. And she knew he was the same way.

Annie shrugged, "I just like seeing him. Is that hard to believe?"

"Mhm."

The hum was getting on Annie's nerves now.

Mama Nette stirred something again.

"You been spending a lot of time at his apartment too."

Annie narrowed her eyes. 

Her grandmother never brought up something unless she was headed somewhere with it. Over the past few weeks Annie had splent plenty of time there. She'd be there after work and on weekends. Some Saturdays she'd stay almost the entire day. They would watch television, cook together, talk, listen to records, read, and sometimes she'd fall asleep on his couch. But every single time, she'd always gone home and her grandmother knew that. Which meant she was fishing.

Annie sighed loudly, "For your information, we don't be doing anything."

"I ain't say y'all did."

"You was trying to."

"I wasn't trying to do nothing."

Mama Nette finally glanced over her shoulder with a tiny smile tugging at her lips.

"Well you saying it like I'm doing something."

"Are you?"

"You know I'm not!"

"Mhm," Mama Nette turned back toward the stove.

The sound only made Annie more irritated.

"I'm not doing this with you," Annie immediately started gathering her things. "I'm going upstairs."

Before her grandmother could say anything else, Annie grabbed her bag and headed toward the stairs. She could hear Mama Nette chuckling behind her as she climbed each step.

A grumble came out as she disappeared into her room and shut the door behind her.

The next morning, Annie was pulled from sleep by the sound of a gentle knock against her bedroom door.

She groaned softly and buried her face deeper into her pillow. For a few seconds she debated pretending she hadn't heard it, but then another knock came.

"Come in," she called sleepily.

The door opened slowly and Mama Nette stepped inside carrying a plate in one hand. She had a smile on her face and was humming as soon as she entered the room.

The familiar tune instantly wrapped around Annie. It was a song she'd heard her entire life and it always proved that she was loved.

Annie sat up slowly against her pillows as her grandmother approached the bed.

On the plate sat a large homemade cinnamon roll covered in icing with a single lit candle right in the center. The flame danced softly in the morning light.

Mama Nette sat carefully on the edge of the bed and finished the last few lines of the song.

"Happy birthday, baby."

"Thank you."

Mama Nette held the plate toward her.

"Make a wish."

Annie looked down at the candle.

Somehow she was twenty-six now. It felt strange.

She remembered being a little girl wishing she could hurry up and become grown. Now she was grown. She had a job she loved, friends who loved her, and a man that she was actually falling in love with. Her life wasn't perfect, but it was hers.

Annie closed her eyes and made her wish. Then she leaned forward and blew the candle out. The tiny flame disappeared and Mama smiled at her.

Her grandmother set the plate on the bedside table before standing. Then a mischievous smile appeared on her face and she folded her arms.

"I got a surprise downstairs."

"What kind?"

"If I tell you it ain't a surprise," Her grandmother laughed. "So get decent and take your time."

Mama Nette headed toward the door and disappeared down the hall.

The second the door closed Annie reached for the cinnamon roll. The icing was still warm and that first bite made her groan. No bakery had ever made one that tasted better.

She ate it quickly while trying to guess what the surprise could possibly be. When she finished, her curiosityy was eating her alive. She threw on her robe, slipped her feet into house shoes, and hurried out of her room. The smell of breakfast drifted up from downstairs.

Annie gripped the banister and quickly descended the stairs. She followed the faint sounds coming from the dining room.

The second she stepped through the doorway she stopped. Elijah was in the middle of the dining room holding a huge bouquet of flowers in one arm and a beautifully wrapped box in the other. He looked up at the exact moment she entered.

Annie let out the loudest squeal of excitement and before he could even react she was moving across the floor. He had to hold the flowers out so they wouldn't get crushed as she practically launched herself at him.

"Good morning to you too, Bunny."

She wrapped both arms around his neck and squeezed him tightly. So tightly he had to adjust the gifts in his hands.

"You're here! You weren't supposed to be here yet!"

"I know."

Annie hugged him even tighter. Her excitement was impossible to contain.

"I thought I wasn't seeing you until later."

Elijah finally shifted the flowers enough to wrap one arm around her waist. His hand settled against her back.

"There was no way I was lettin' your birthday start without seeing you."

Annie's smile grew. Her heart felt so full she thought she might float away.

Elijah looked at her. Despite how she looked with her robe, still rolled hair, and a just woke up face, he thought she looked absolutely beautiful. He pressed a gentle kiss against her cheek before lowering his mouth close to her ear.

"Happy birthday, Bunny." His voice was low, warm, and just for her.

"Thank you."

"You're welcome."

Annie loosened her grip around Elijah's neck and stepped back. She really took a look at the flowers in his hand. The giant bouquet was full of flowers in warm shades of cream, pink, and yellow.

"They're beautiful."

"Even more than you."

Annie sucked her teeth and lightly pushed his arm.

Elijah set the bouquet carefully in the center of the dining room table before placing the gift box directly in front of Annie. Her eyes dropped to it.

"Open it."

Annie looked up, "Right now?"

"You think I wrapped it up for tomorrow?" Elijah raised an eyebrow.

"Okay," she laughed.

Sliding into one of the dining room chairs, Annie carefully pulled the box closer. She untied the ribbon and lifted the lid. Inside there were two smaller boxes.

Elijah stood beside her chair with one hand resting against the back of it while the other settled on the edge of the table. He watched her with the kind of attention that made her feel like she was the only person in the room.

Annie reached for the smaller box and carefully opened it. Nestled against the soft velvet fabric was a beautiful pearl necklace. These weren't imitation pearls of costume jewelry, this was the real thing. The creamy white pearls glowed softly in the morning sunlight coming through the dining room windows.

Elijah watched Annie's face as she lifted the necklace up. The wonder in her eyes made the money spent well worth it.

She gently touched it with her fingertips then slowly looked up at him.

"You really bought this for me?"

"Bunny, who else would I buy it for?"

She shook her head in disbelief and looked back down at the necklace. It was far too beautiful and probably far too expensive. She placed the necklace back into the box before setting it down and reaching for the second one.

The second gift was a gorgeous pair of red heels. The color was rich and the leather was smooth. The heel wasn't too high, but it was just high enough.

She turned them around in her hands to admire every angle. They were exactly the kind of shoes she'd stop and admire in a store window but would never actually buy for herself.

Annie looked between the necklace and the shoes then back at him.

"You spent way too much money on me."

"It's your birthday and you're worth it," Elijah shrugged. "Do you like them?"

The warmth in her eyes answered before she could. Annie instantly nodded.

"I love them. Thank you," her voice came out way softer than she intended.

"You're welcome, Bunny."

He leaned down and his lips brushed against hers in a soft, sweet kiss. It made her smile before they even pulled away from each other.

When he did pull back, Annie frowned up at him.

"What?" he looked at her with slightly suspicious eyes.

"That's it? That's the only kiss I get on my birthday?"

His eyebrows rose up as he apologized, "I'm sorry. You want another one."

She nodded very seriously, "I do."

Elija leaned down again, but this kiss lasted a little longer than the last. The kiss still being very surface level, not wanting to go too far in the presence of her grandmother. It was more like a drawn out peck than anything.

When they pulled back for the second time, Annie smiled wide. Then, Elijah pulled out the chair beside Annie and sat down. Mama Nette came in from the kitchen carrying plates, the smell alone made Annie's stomach growl. That cinnamon roll had done little to help her hunger.

The plates were stacked with bacon, eggs, biscuits, grits, and fruit. It was more than enough food to feed three people. Elijah even helped to bring some of the plates into the dining room. Together they set everything on the table, then sat down.

For a while they simply ate with easy conversation flowing every now and then. Mama Nette would ask Elijah about work or Elijah asked Annie about the school. Mama Nette caught them up on the latest news she got from her older friends from all over the block.

After breakfast finally came to an end, Annie gathered up everyone's plates before either of them could stop her.

"Birthday girl ain't supposed to be cleaning," Elijah told her as she stacked dishes in her arms.

"And birthday girl don't want dishes sitting around all morning," Annie shot back.

Mama Nette waved her hand, "Let her do it. She hardheaded."

Annie rolled her eyes but couldn't stop grinning as she disappeared into the kitchen. A few minutes later she returned to the dining room with her hands freshly washed. The smile on her face faded away when she noticed Elijah standing up looking as if he was going to leave.

His jacket was in his hand and he looked suspiciously like a man preparing to leave.

"What you doing?"

Elijah looked over at her, "Going to work."

"What?" Annie stopped walking.

"I gotta go in for a little while."

Her face scrunched up and a pout appeared so quick, "But it's my birthday."

The words came out so dramatic that even Mama Nette rolled her eyes from her chair.

Elijah opened his mouth then immediately closed it because Annie's pout somehow got worse.

"Bunny."

"It's my birthday and you're leavin'." She walked across the room and grabbed his hand.

"I'm coming back. I'm only going in for a few hours. A car been givin' one of the boys trouble for some days now."

"So?" Annie let out a huff and narrowed her eyes.

"So I told him I'd help."

"But it's my birthday."

"You done said that four times," Elijah shook his head at how dramatic his woman could be.

He truly loved this woman. The longer they spent together the more she showed him parts of herself she kept hidden ffrom other people. Most people saw the sweet, patient, kind side of Annie. And she was still all of that, but he also got to see the stubborn, dramatic, and spoiled side of Annie. And he loved it.

"'Cause you keep ignorin' the important part of it being my birthday."

He stepped closer and gently squeezed her hand.

"I'll be back before your party."

"You promise?"

"I promise."

Annie looked unconvinced.

"Bunny."

She sighed dramatically, "Fine. But I'm still upset."

"I'll make it up to you."

"You better."

He leaned down and kissed her forehead, then her cheek, then finally her lips. The kisses were so gentle they made Annie forget what she was complaining about in the first place.

Finally, Annie walked him to the front door.

When they got outside, she grabbed his arm.

"You're really leaving me now?"

"Annette."

The use of her first name and not her nickname made Annie concede to him.

"This wasn't long enough."

"I'll see you later, baby. Calm down, okay?"

She sighed and let go of his arm. They stared at each other long enough for Annie to nod and step back.

Annie stood on the stoop and watched as he got in his car and drove away. Only then did she head back inside.

The moment she stepped into the living room Mama Nette looked up from her position on the couch.

"I'm bout sick of you and that man. Glad he had to leave for work or else y'all woulda been annoying me all damn day."

Annie frowned, "Mama, you always being mean to me. It's my birthday, leave us alone."

"Girl gone on."

Annie shook her head and headed upstairs. Once inside her room, she officially started getting ready for the day.

If she was being honest, she wasn't planning on sitting in the house until her party.

She opened her closet and looked through her dresses. After several minutes she finally settled on her favorite yellow one. The bright sunny color made her smile every time she wore it. The dress cinched perfectly at her waist before flaring out around her knees when she moved. The fitted bodice highlighted her lush curves beautifully, especially her chest, while the skirt gave her room to move comfortably.

It was feminine, bright, and fun. Which was exactly how she wanted to feel for the day.

She carefully did her hair, applied a little makeup, and added some perfume. Then stepped back from her mirror only to see that she was practically glowing.

Feeling pleased with herself, she headed downstairs to the phone. She wasn't spending the few hours she had before the party alone, especially after Elijah left her. So she called Monica first.

"Monica?"

"Hey birthday girl."

"Are you dressed?"

"Yes, but for what? The party's not till later."

"Not really thinkin' too mucha bout the party right now. I want to be out, so come get me."

"Fine, but you better be ready since you callin' tryin' to make all kinds of demands and things."

"I'm ready. You just come on."

After hanging up with Monica she called the rest of the group to inform them of her spontaneous plans for the day.

Since she had a little time before they arrived, she spent it putting on jewelry and fixing the tiny details.

Every few minutes she checked the clock, then the window, then the clock again. Eventually she heard a car horn outside and she nearly tripped herself by quickly stepping downstairs. She hurried out the front door to the familiar blue car that sat parked along the curb.

Monica was behind the wheel, Michelle sat in the passenger seat, and Lillian was in the back.

The second they spotted Annie coming down the walkway, all three women started hollering. Lillian even whistled out of the window.

Monica leaned halfway out the window.

"Oh you cute girl."

"Real cute," Michelle nodded approvingly.

Annie climbed into the car, and the second the door shut, Monica pulled away from the curb taking them to the direction of Annie's favorite dress shop.

They drove down to Pennsylvania Avenue. The city moving in streaks of color through the car windows as Monica navigated through traffic. The storefronts were getting more clustered and lively.

Eventually, Monica found a parking spot near a row of boutiques and eased the car to a stop. The dress shop was nestled between a salon and a small jewelry store. The windows of the shop were wide, displaying mannequins dressed in everything from elegant evening wear to casual day to day.

All four ladies got out at once, the sound of the car doors slamming blanding into the busy city noise around them. Annie smoothed her dress down as they walked up to the entrance.

The bell above the door chimed when they stepped inside. Cool air hit them, along with the faint smell of fabric, perfume, and polished wood floors.

Instantly, they all split up, taking different areas of the store to cover plenty of ground. Annie slowly wandered between racks of dresses, fingers brushing fabric as she passed. She was just lifting a pale blue dress off the rack when Monica’s voice cut through the aisle.

“So Annie, what you doing after the party?”

Annie’s eyebrows pulled together. “The party probably gone be going on late. I was just gonna go up to sleep after.”

Monica hummed like she didn’t believe her. She continued flipping through dresses without looking up.

“So you really don't have nothing planned,” she asked.

“No. Should I?” Annie frowned.

Monica finally glanced up for half a second, then went right back to the rack.

“I figured you and Elijah was gonna want some alone time.”

Annie blinked, “We saw each other this morning.”

“I’m already tired of talking in circles. You giving it up tonight?” Monica made a small sound, unimpressed.

Annie let out a breath that sounded half disbelief, half embarrassment. She turned away, grabbing another dress off the rack like she suddenly needed something to do with her hands.

“No, I'm still not doing any of that tonight,” she said finally.

Monica’s head tilted slightly. “And why not?”

"Because I don't want to," Annie's grip tightened on the hanger.

“But y'all have been together for a long while now,” Lillian slid in.

Annie shook her head quickly, “It ain't been that long. It's barely been a month since we made it official.”

“Y'all leave her alone. If she says she ain't ready, she ain't ready,” Michelle stepped in calmly.

Monica exhaled through her nose like she was holding back something more blunt. “I’m just saying, Annie been saying she not ready for years.”

“Some people waiting ain't a crime. I waited till I married Tommy,” Michelle cut her eyes at Monica.

“That’s different. You and Tommy been together since y'all were sixteen and got married a few years later. Annie over here almost thirty and still ain’t even rub one out go—”

“Monica,” Annie said sharply. She looked around, lowering her voice even more, “Can we stop talking about this?”

Monica held her gaze for a second, then nodded once, “Alright, I’ll let it go.”

Annie exhaled. “Thank you.”

“Mhm.”

The tension eased just slightly as they all went back to browsing, the moment settling into awkward quiet. Annie tried to focus on the dresses again, brushing through fabrics with slower hands now, her earlier excitement dulled by the conversation.

Across the aisle, Michelle’s voice suddenly lifted.

“Look at what I found.”

All three turned to look at her to see Michelle was holding up a dress from the rack, stepping back so they could see it better.

The dress was gorgeous. It was a rich deep red that caught the eye without being overly flashy. The sleeves stopped just above the elbows, while the skirt flowed outward in a soft swing shape that would move beautifully whenever she walked or danced. The hem hit a few inches above the knee.

But what really caught Annie's attention was the neckline. The curve dipped lower than anything she normally wore. It was just enough to highlight her chest and collarbone.

Michelle grinned at her, "What you think?"

"I think I know exactly what to wear with this," Annie reached out and touched the fabric.

A short while later the dress was purchased, neatly folded into a large shopping bag, and the four women were heading back toward Monica's car. Once everyone climbed inside, Monica started the engine.

Everyone had reached the point where shopping had turned into hunger.

They pulled away from the curb and headed down the street. They'd only been driving a few minutes when Annie spotted realized they were heading down the same street that her uncle's garage was on.

"Can we stop up here for a while?"

All the ladies followed her finger that was pointing up the street to Ray's garage. When they realized where and why she was pointing, Lillian groaned.

"You're gonna see that man in a few hours."

"And it's my birthday," Annie said.

Lillian shook her head, but eventually the women gave in. Mostly because they knew Annie would be insufferable otherwise.

Monica turned into the lot and parked near the front of the garage. Annie got out of the car and was instantly greeted with the sounds of tools clanking and men talking. The smell of oil and grease was prominent in the air. The large doors were wide open, and a few cars filled the different bays.

When she actually stepped inside and people spotted her they greeted her happily. A whistle from somewhere deeper in the garage sounded out as they all wished her happy birthday.

She kept going until she spotted Ray near one of the lifts.

"Uncle Ray!"

Ray looked up and the second he saw her his face lit up, "Well look at my birthday girl."

Annie smiled and walked over. Once she reached him, Ray wrapped her up in a tight hug.

"Happy birthday, Sweet Pea."

"Thank you, Uncle Ray."

When he pulled away he looked her over and his eyebrows rose.

"You look beautiful today."

"Thank you," Then she tilted her head. "You still coming tonight?"

"Of course I'm coming," Ray looked offended.

"I was just asking," she laughed

"I'm getting there right when it starts. I gotta make sure the shop gets closed up right. Clara should already be over at the house helping you grandmother and them set everything up."

Annie nodded as her eyes drifted around without meaning too. After several seconds Annie casually asked, "So...where's Elijah?"

Ray's face went stoic at the mention of his employee, "He in the back taking a break.

She tried to keep her face neutral, "Okay, I'll go talk to him for a little while. I'll see you later."

"Alright, Sweet Pea."

She turned and headed toward the back of the garage where the small break room was tucked away behind the amin work area. The further she walked, the quieter it became. She reached the doorway then carefully peeked inside.

Elijah was sitting at a small table against the wall, leaning back in his chair while eating a sandwich and drinking from a bottle of soda. His work shirt sleeves were rolled up to his forearms and there were faint grease stains across his shirt from the day. He looked tired from working since leaving her house earlier that morning.

He looked up to see her standing in the doorway. His entire face changed and his eyebrows shot up.

"Bunny?"

"Hi."

For a moment he just stared at her because he genuinely hadn't expected to see her until later that night. A slight slow smile spread across his face.

"Now what you doin' here?" He set his sandwich down and wiped his hands with a rag before holding one hand out toward her. "C'mere."

Annie didn't need to be told twice. She walked across the room and slipped her hand into his. His fingers immediately closed around hers.

"I thought you would be out having some birthday fun before your party."

"I am."

"Mm," He squeezed her hand. "Then why you down here botherin' hardworking people?"

Annie laughed.

"Me and the girls were just passing by. They're out there waitin' in the car."

Elijah's eyes slowly traveled over her, lingering on the way the dress perfectly cinched her waist before flowing over the curve of her hips. The skirt of it flared out around her knees, and his gaze found its way back to her face.

"You look absolutely gorgeous."

"Thank you."

Elijah kept holding her hand. Neither one seemed particularly interested in letting go. And for a few moments they simply looked at each other in a comfortable silence.

Then Annie glanced down to the chair, and more specifically Elijah's lap. Her eyes flicked back up to him then down again.

Elijah followed her gaze and quickly understood what she wanting.

Annie smoothed her hands over the front of her dress almost like she was prepapring herself to sit.

"Hold on. I don't want to ruin your pretty birthday dress."

Before she could argue, he leaned over and grabbed an old clean towel from the table beside him. He unfolded and spread it across his lap.

"Alright, come on."

Annie's smile brightened.

It was such a little thing, but it was exactly the kind of thing Elijah always did. He was always trying to take care of her even in situations where she didn't think it mattered.

She smoothed her dress one more time before easing down on his lap.

Elijah adjusted himself to make sure she was comfortable. His arm hovered behind her to keep her steady while trying not to touch her.

But Annie noticed and she didn't quite like it.

"You know you can touch me, right?"

"Can't. My hands too dirty."

Annie rolled her eyes and settled against him anyway.

"What were y'all doin' on this side of town anyway?" He finally asked.

"We were goin' shopping."

"Y'all always shoppin'. What you was lookin' for?"

"The dress for my party."

"You ain't wearing this one?" His eyebrows lifted.

"This ain't no party dress, Elijah."

"Could've fooled me."

"Well it ain't"

He hummed.

His eyes slowly moved over her for the third time. He was taking her all in, from the weight of her body in his lap to the way her chest rose and fell with each breath. Elijah slightly shifted his legs as he tried to think about anything other than what it would feel like to have her sit on him in other ways.

Annie felt herself getting warm from his stare.

"Stop looking at me like that."

He cleared his throat as he looked away.

"So what dress you get?"

"A pretty red one that I can wear with my new birthday gifts."

Annie reached over and unconciously straightened the collar of his work shirt.

Elijah watched her do it. His heart doing funny flips in his chest.

"I can't wait to see it."

Annie felt her cheeks warm as butterflies exploded in her stomach. After another few minutes she glanced toward the door.

"I should probably go. My friends are waitin' for me."

Elijah sighed.

"Elijah."

"Bunny."

Eventually she stood and he stood right after her. They walked back through the garage together with Elijah staying close behind her.

The closer they got to the front, her smile grew. When they reached Monica's car, Annie felt refreshed and happy. She was practically glowing.

Elijah opened the car door for her. Annie smiled up at him before climbing inside.

The other three women looked at him with smirks on their faces.

"Hey Elijah," they practically called at the same time.

"Afternoon ladies," He looked back at Annie. "I'll see you tonight."

She nodded.

Then Elijah leaned into the car, only planning to give her one quick kiss as a goodbye. heir lips met softly, but when he started pulling away, Annie grabbed his shirt. She leaned forward and kissed him again, holding it a little longer this time.

Elijah let out the tiniest chuckle against her lips before returning the kiss. Annie looked entirely too pleased with herself when they separated.

"See you tonight, Bunny," Elijah shook his head, then shut he door.

Monica cranked the engine and the second the car started moving she looked at Annie in the mirror, "Ain't ready yet my ass."

After leaving the garage, the four women went and got lunch. They spent nearly two hours sitting in a little restaurant laughing and talking. Once they were finished eating, they headed back to Annie's neighborhood for the party.

People were moving around everywhere when they pulled up in front of the house. Her uncle Marcus was carrying a table with Christian helping him. Marcus's girlfriend was arranging decorations on one of the tables. People moved in and out of the house carrying things.

Ever since she was a little girl every year was the same. Her birthday had always been some type of celebration. Sometimes it would only be family, sometimes, family and friends, and even a few times, like this year, the whole neighborhood would come together.

The second Annie climbed out of the car, she heard the calls from several people.

"The birthday girl finally decided to come help?"

Annie laughed as she moved to help someone with a box of things.

For the next couple of hours she worked right alongside everybody else, helping to put things together. She carried things back and forth until her feet started hurting. Eventually her grandmother sent her on to get ready for the night.

She spent time getting ready. She first ran herself a bath, the warm water helped soothe her aching feet after she had been running around all afternoon and morning. Afterward, she dried off and got dressed.

The red dress fit her perfectly. It hugged her waist before flaring outward. The color made her skin glow.

Once she finished getting dressed she proceeded to do her makeup lightly. Then she touched up her hair, making sure her curls fell just right. She put on her new pearl necklace and the matching earrings. Then she slipped into the newly gifted red heels.

She looked absolutely radiant.

The party had just started, so she could hear the sound of music drifted through her bedroom window.

As she headed down the stairs she found Mama Nette standing in the hallway waiting.

The older woman turned and looked her up and down. She put her hands on her hips and shook her head.

"Now look at you little Miss hot thing."

Annie chuckled and wrapped her arms around the older woman. Her grandmother hugged her back tightly. They pulled back and headed for the front door, where the music was louder.

When Annie stepped outside, the street exploded with dozens of cheers and voices screaming happy birthday. The entire street was packed from corner to corner with family, friends, neighbors, church members, and even people she didn't quite know that well.

Annie was just smiling at all of the praise. She waved, thanking everyone as she started down the stoop stairs.

And waiting at he bottom of the stairs was her man. His hand extended out to her, eyes locked on her. Annie bit her lip to hold back the even larger smile that was threatening to take over her face.

"Thank you, baby."

She placed her hand in his and he helped her down, making sure her heels didn't catch on anything. He held on even as her feet touched the sidewalk.

His eyes traveled over the pearls, the dress, the heels, then back to her face.

"Good Lord woman. You are the most beautiful woman I ever seen in my life."

Her face softened.

"You like it?"

"Woman don't you ever ask me nothing like that," he genuinely looked offended.

Before she could respond, Elijah leaned in and their lips met. When they pulled back from each other, Annie squeezed his hand.

"I gotta go speak to people."

He nodded so she started to walk away, but he followed.

Annie spent half an hour making her way through the crowd. Every few feet somebody stopped her to talk. When she was finished with one conversation, someone else wanted to start another.

The entire time Elijah stayed close by with one hand tucked into his pocket while the other occasionally rested against the small of her back whenever things got a little too crowded.

Annie introduced him to so many people she couldn't even keep track. Each introduction did something to Elijah. They made his chest puff up in pride. Even though his face didn't show it, his body language proved that he loved every part of it.

At one point they stopped by a group from church and the ladies were fussing over Annie's dress. Then they started fussing over Elijah and the two of them. They started talking about how they hadn't seen much of the two in the last few weeks. Elijah let Annie do most of the talking, not wanting to say the wrong thing to the older women. He never cared about what the peopl of the church said when it concerned him and Annie, but Annie always had the right words to settle anything that did come up.

Just like how she managed to smoothly change the topic when one of the women brough up marriage and children. The women had no boundaries. Eventually they escaped before the ladies could get any more ideas.

As they went back to wandering through the crowd, Annie spotted her grandmother sitting in a shaded area underneath a big tree. Several older men and women from the neighborhood sat around her in chairs.

Elijah followed her toward the table. As they approached the area, Mama Nette calmed her laughing and waved them closer.

"Good, y'all made y'all way over here. Come here Annie."

That tone made Annie instantly suspicious.

The older woman reached beside her chair and grabbed a cup. It was filled a little over halfway with a clear liquid. And by the way the smell hit her, Annie knew wha it was.

"Mama, I don't want that." Annie's face scrunched up.

"You better take this cup 'cause I ain't raise you to be no pussy cat."

Annie reluctantly accepted the cup and with the ligquid being so close the smell got even stronger. Her head jerked back as the scent practically smacked her in the face.

"It stinks."

The old folks laughed hard.

"Well, it ain't supposed to smell pretty. That's how you know it's that good shine," The older woman turned toward Elijah. "You make sure she drinks all that."

Elijah looked down at the cup then back at Annie. His eyebrows slowly lifted as he realized how strong it probably was. At that moment, he understood Annie's reaction.

Mama Nette lifted her own cup.

"You want some?" Mama Nette lifted her cup.

Elijah shook his head, "No ma'am."

"You sure?"

"Yes ma'am."

The entire table laughed at the look on his face. He looked like a man that wanted no parts of whatever she had given Annie.

Annie took the tiniest sip imaginable, and her entire face twisted up at the taste. She stuck her tongue out in disgust. She looked absolutely horrified.

"How y'all even drinking this mess?"

Mama Nette waved her hand.

"How 'bout you just keep on drinking."

Annie stared at her grandmother for a bit, then turned to Elijah. She grabbed his arm and pulled him away knowing that if they stayed any longer she would be two cups deep.

The party went on as the sun disappeared, leaving the street lit only by porch lights, strings of hanging bulbs, and the occasional headlights from cars parked along the curb.

Any children that were there had been rounded up and sent home. Now it was just the adults. People were dancing and laughing joyfully in the middle of the street.

At some point her friends had managed to corner her near the food tables during one of the moments where her and Elijah were separated. Their conversation quickly turned into a drinking competition. They forced her to finish the cup of mooshine, and then gave another cup of something else.

And now, hours later, Annie was definitely feeling it. Her body was warm and everything seemed funnier than normal. She felt absolutely wonderful.

Elijah noticed this change in her a while ago and hadn't left her side. One of his hands remained firmly planted against the middle of her back as they moved through the crowd. He wanted to make sure she was steady in those pretty new heels of hers.

Annie took a sip from another cup of liquor and Elijah looked over at her.

"Bunny."

She looked at him so innocently, "Hm?"

"You need to slow down."

"What for? I'm fine."

"I'm serious. That stuff's strong," Elijah didn't look too convinced.

"I promise that I'm alright."

But before he could say anything else, the song ended and rolled over into the next one. The crowd cheered as the singer started performing My Babe by Little Walter.

Annie's face lit up and before Elijah knew what was happening, she grabbed his hand and was pulling him toward the middle of the street.

"Bunny—"

"I wanna dance, Elijah."

The crowd parted enough to let them through. Annie stopped them right in the middle of the moving crowd. She wrapped her arms around Elijah's neck pulling him close to her.

The movement caught Elijah slightly off guard. He knew she'd had a good amount to drink but he didn't think she'd had enough to make her this loose. So instead of wrapping his arms around her, he hesitated. And of course Annie noticed.

Her eyes narrowed as she grabbed both of his hands and pulled back from him.

"You don't wanna dance with me?"

The confusion in her voice made Elijah's eyebrows rise.

"I ain't say that," He genuinely looked surprised. "I wanna do whatever you wanna do."

"Then why ain't you touchin' me?" She tilted her head. "You scared or somethin'?"

"Naw, I ain't scared," Elijah grumbled.

"Then what is it?"

"Tonight just a little different is all," Elijah glanced down at the cup in her hand then back up at her. "You been drinkin' a lot and you not actin' like yourself."

Annie stared at him for a second, then lifted her cup in the air for emphasis, "All 'cause of this?"

Elijah looked at her and nodded.

Without warning she tipped her head back and finished the rest. She made a face as the good bit of the liquid that was left burned on it's way down. She handed the now empty cup off to a random man that was walking past.

Annie turned back to Elijah with her arms out, "See, no more drink. I'm just fine."

Then she stepped forward and reached for his hands. She guided them to her waist, and pressed them firmly against her. She moved close until there was no space left between them. She smiled triumphantly at their position.

The singer's voice drifted through the air and the crowd moved around them. People were dancing smoothly to the music. But all Elijah saw was her. Happiness was written all over her face and stamped into her body.

He finally relaxed and wrapped his arms around her properly. One hand settled against the middle of her back and the other rested at her waist. A slight smile graced his face as they started to sway to the beat of the song.

The music rolled from one song to the next as they stayed in each other's embrace. And for a while Annie had been dancing and singing along normally to the songs. She laughed whenever Elijah spun her around, waved at people passing by, and stopped every now and then to hug somebody who wanted to tell her happy birthday. But as the night wore on, Elijah could see the moonshine catching up to her.

Her movements became slower, her words became fewer, and every time Elijah looked into her eyes they were glassier than before. She was more affectionate and clingy. Whenever they danced she seemed determined to stay as close to him as possible. Every time he tried to give her some space she'd somehow end up right back against him.

She would giggle at things that weren't particularly funny. Then she started staring at him for long stretches of time.

Elijah rubbed his hand up and down her back, "Bunny?"

"Hm?" she had the happiest little smile on her face.

"You wanna sit down for a while?"

Annie blinked at him clearly trying to process the question.

"What?"

"I asked if you wanna sit down for a little?"

She tilted her head, "...Maybe."

Before he could convince her to take a break, a familiar voice called out. Elijah turned to see Michelle, Tommy, and Lillian approaching them. Michelle had two small plastic cups in her hand.

"We about to take some shots. You want one?"

Annie nodded immediately. Her head going a little too enthusiastically, "Mmhm."

Elijah's eyes narrowed as he watched the exchange. The look on his face practically screamed 'hell no'. Before Annie could grab it, Elijah reached over took the cup himself.

"She don't need anymore."

Annie frowned.

"I can drink it."

"Bunny."

"I can."

Tommy shook his head as he watched Annie sway where she stood.

Annie reached around Elijah and managed to grab the cup from his hands. And to her surprise no one stopped her.

Elijah was still eyeing her, "I don't think you should drink anymore, tonight."

"I think I should."

The stubbornness in her voice sounded exactly like sober Annie. The difference was sober Annie usually stood upright while arguing. Drunk Annie was currently leaning halfway into him.

Elijah sighed.

Michelle handed another cup to Lillian and the women gathered together. All three of them lifted their cups. They cheersed as they clinked their cups together. Then they drank them. Annie squeezed her eyes shut at the taste.

Elijah rubbed a hand down his face. At least she hadn't gotten another full cup.

A few seconds later Tommy checked his watch, then wrapped an arm around Michelle's shoulders.

"We finna head out."

Michelle nodded.

Elijah looked over and nodded his head at Lillian, "How they getting home?"

"CJ driving her and Monica in Monica's car."

Elijah nodded, "Alright."

Everybody said their goodbyes and last happy birthdays. Then they headed toward their cars.

The party continued on around them. Someone had started another card game near one of the tables. A group of older women were singing loudly from their folding chairs.

But Annie was officially beyond drunk now. And that was emphasized by the way she was standing there staring directly at his face for no reason.

"Bunny, why you looking at me like that?"

"You just so pretty," Annie smiled dreamily. "You got real pretty eyes."

"See that's enough we sitting down," she didn't argue when he grabbed her hand which worried him just a bit because Annie always argued. Instead she just smiled and followed him willingly while he guided her toward the outer edges of the party.

Elijah led them back over to the large tree that her grandmother was sitting under. He helped her down into an empty chair next to the older woman.

The party was starting to thin out considerably. A few people were still dancing, sitting around, talking, and playing cards, but most of the people were gone for the night.

Annie practically melted into Elijah the second she sat down. Her head leaned against his side and one of her hands gripped tightly onto the fabric of his shirt. Elijah put an arm around her shoulders to steady her. Annie hummed happily.

Mama Nette watched the pair over the rim of her cup. She shook her head at how drunk the younger woman was.

"It'd probably be best if she head on upstairs," she stated after taking a sip from her cup.

Elijah looked down at Annie to see she was struggling to stay awake. Every few seconds she would blink slower and slower. Then she'd catch herself. He gently pushed some fallen hair back from her face.

"Bunny, I'm gonna take you upstairs so you can get in bed."

Annie stared at him.

"Okay."

The response came so easily Elijah knew she was exhausted. She let him help her up., and he steadied her when she wobbled on her feet.

She giggled at herself just then, "I almost fell."

"I see."

He put an arm around her waist and she clung to him instantly. He led her toward the house which was luckily only a few feet away.

Some people nearby called out variations of goodnight and happy birthday as they passed by. Annie waved and thanked them lazily as she gripped Elijah's shirt.

They traveled up the stoop stairs one at a time. Which was a challenge in itself. Once inside the house was far more quiet than outside, and for that Elijah was grateful. The trip upstairs took even longer than the one to get into the house. She stumbled every few steps and would grab his arms to stablize herself.

By the time they reached her bedroom she was yawning and dragging her feet. Elijah opened the door and led her inside. He helped her sit on the edge of the bed and steadied her shoulders as she swayed. Elijah crouched in front of her, keeping a hand on her thigh.

"Where your pajamas at?"

Annie pointed vaguely toward her dresser, "In there."

"Which drawer?"

"The middle one."

He opened it and was welcomed with the sight of several neatly folded nightgowns. He didn't linger too long and grabbed one. When he turned back around Annie was rubbing her eyes.

"Bunny, is it okay if I help you?"

She nodded, "Yes."

He crouched in front of her and carefully unbuckled her heels. He set them neatly beside the bed. Then he removed her pearl necklace and earrings, setting them onto her dresser so she wouldn't miss them.

Elijah stood awkwardly.

"Can I unzip your dress?"

Annie nodded, "You can, but close your eyes."

"Alright."

Annie seemed satisifed as he shut his eyes.

Using only touch, he carefully found the zipper and lowered it.

Annie concentrated very hard on helping herself get out of the dress. Which mostly consisted of getting tangled for a minute.

When they got her party dress off, he helped her get the nightgown over her head. The process took longer than it should have because Annie kept getting distracted.

"You can open 'em now."

Elijah opened his eyes.

Annie was sitting there in her nightgown looking entirely pleased with herself.

He shook his head.

Then helped her get onto the bed properly and underneath the covers. Within seconds, she looked halfway asleep. She let out a sigh as he pulled the blanket even farther up on her.

"Did you have fun today?"

"It was the best. Especially with you here."

Elijah sat beside the bed, "I'm glad."

"Thank you," she smiled sleepily.

"You ain't gotta thank me."

"I do."

Elijah chuckled, "Even drunk you so hardheaded. "

Annie smiled proudly.

A few seconds passed. Then she opened one eye.

"Baby?"

"Yeah?"

"Can I have a kiss?"

He leaned down and pressed a gentle kiss against her lips. When he pulled away she looked absolutely content. Within seconds her eyes drifted closed again.

"Goodnight, Bunny."

"Mhm."

It was barely a response because she was already asleep.

Elijah stood quietly, looked at her one last time, then slipped from the room.

October 31st, 1958

The group of children hurried down the sidewalk with their candy bags bouncing against their legs.

"Thank you, Miss Annie!"

"Happy Halloween, y'all! Be careful going down these streets!"

Annie waved at them until they were out of sight.

The whole neighborhood was alive tonight. Children ran up and down the sidewalks and jack-o'-lanterns glowed from stoops. Somewhere down the street somebody had a radio playing old blues music.

While outside was lively, inside was just as loud. Every few seconds Elijah and Annie heard laughter drift through the open window. It was one of Mama Nette's many card game nights, and everyone was ready to gamble their money. Annie could hear her grandmother cursing someone as the sounds of smacks hit the table.

Elijah sat beside her on the stoop with his elbows rested on his knees as he watched her. Which was something he had been doing all night. And every time Annie turned around she found him looking at her.

"What?"

"Nothin'."

"You keep starin' at me."

"'Cause you pretty," he shrugged.

"Boy," Annie rolled her eyes.

"I'm serious."

Heat crept onto her cheeks anyway. She turned away before he could see how much she liked hearing it.

The candy bowl sat in her lap and she absentmindedly sorted through it while they waited for the next group of trick-or-treaters.

After a few moments Elijah spoke again.

"You really good with kids, you know that?"

"I just really like 'em," Annie looked over and smiled at him.

"I can tell. That's probably what make you such a good teacher, huh?"

Annie looked down at the candy bowl for a moment to think, "Maybe."

"Why'd you wanna become a teacher anyway?"

"I don't know. I think I always liked helping people," she leaned back a bit while fiddling with the candy pieces. "When I was little I thought about being a nurse. But then I thought about all the blood I would have to see."

She immediately made a face while Elijah let out a soft smile.

"I can handle scraped knees and little cuts. But anything else I'd rather not. No, thank you," her eyes passed over the busy street. "Besides, everybody always told me I was good with kids. I guess teaching just made sense. I like watchin' 'em learn things."

"Yeah?"

She nodded, "When they finally understand somethin' they been struggling with, it makes me happy."

Elijah found himself smiling a bit more too. That sounded exactly like Annie. She always found joy in helping somebody else, wanting everyone around to be happy, and giving pieces of herself away. After a few moments he nodded.

"I get it," his eyes drifted to the street with a far away look in his eye. "I always felt like I needed to take of somebody. Growing up it was really just me and Stack. And Stack was always gettin' into somethin'. There wasn't nobody that was gone take care of us. My mama died after she had us and my pops wasn't worth a damn. He did a lotta messed up shit to us. More Stack than me. He drank too much, gambled, and was a mean son of a bitch."

Annie immediately grew quiet. She hadn't known any of this. She knew bits and pieces about Elijah's life, but there were still huge parts of his life that she'd never heard. Like the things that happened before he joined the military.

"He'd always tell us we wasn't men. Which was some funny thing to say to a couple of boys. There were times we ain't know where our next meal was coming from. We were doin' whatever we could to survive. And as we got older it got worse. That's part of why we joined the army. We thought if we learned how to survive nobody could ever make us feel helpless again."

Elijah looked at her. Like really looked at her. The streetlamp illuminated her face, her large round brown eyes glowed with softness. She had compassion and understanding all over her face. Nobody had ever looked at him the way Annie did. Most people were either scared or full of pity knowing their background. But she looked at him as just Elijah.

Then Annie quietly asked, "Did it work?"

Elijah stared at her. The question caught him slightly off guard.

He thought about the nightmares, the injuries, the men he'd lost, and the years he'd spent feeling empty. But the more he thought the more it led him to the present of sitting on this stoop, feeling more at peace than he had in years.

A slow smile appeared, "A little."

Annie smiled back. Then another group of children appeared. She passed out the candy and told the children how cute they looked.

Another group of trick-or-treaters came and went before the conversation picked back up.

Annie settled back into her spot on the stoop, pulling her cardigan a little tighter around herself against the cool October air.

Elijah glanced over at her.

"I know we mentioned it, but you really do want kids?"

"Of course I do."

"I don't know. Some women say they want kids then end up changin' they mind."

Annie shook her head, "No. I defintely want babies. I always thought about being somebody's mama someday."

"And only three?"

"Yes," She huffed dramatically. "My grandmother had six children. I don't think I got six babies in me. Carrying a baby is a lot on the body. Your feet swell, back aches, and you just uncomfortable all the time. Then you gotta push the little sucka out."

"Well, you know twins run in my family," Elijah said it so casually.

Annie slowly turned her head to him, "And what's that supposed to mean?"

"I'm just sayin'."

"Sayin' what?"

"What if you have twins," He continued. "What if we have kids and the first time you pop out two babies at once?"

Annie looked at the street like she was genuinely considering it.

"I guess I'd cry."

"Why?"

"Because that's just too much," Annie thought for a second. "But I think I would still want to have another, so maybe four."

"Good."

Annie furrowed her brows and tilted her head.

"You awfully invested in this 'what-if' family."

"'Cause it's my family."

One of Annie's eyebrows slowly lifted.

"And what makes you so sure I'm havin' kids with you?"

Elijah turned to look at her with the driest most unimpressed look on his face. It was so serious it made her laugh. He was looking at her as if she had just asked the dumbest question he'd ever heard.

"Stop playin' with me, Annette."

Annie let out a few more chuckles then leaned her head against his shoulder.

"Okay, okay. I'm sorry, baby."

He narrowed his eyes, "You should be."

She laughed again.

A comfortable silence settled between them. The sounds of Halloween filled the silence.

Annie looked out at the glowing jack-o'-lanterns across the street. Then softly said, "I guess we'll just have to wait and see."

Elijah looked down at her to see a small smile on her face. And despite himself, he smiled too, "Yeah, we will."

The next group of trick-or-treaters came up the walkway before either of them could say anything else. It was a little boy with his younger sister who was too shy to do anything other than hide behind his leg.

"Well look at y'all!"

The boy grinned up at Annie while holding out both of their bags. Annie crouched down and handed them each a handful of candy.

"Y'all be safe now."

The little ghost nodded seriously, "Yes ma'am!"

Annie nearly melted right there on the stoop.

The children hurried away, their parents calling after them from the sidewalk. Once they disappeared down the street, Annie sat back down beside Elijah.

The candy bowl was getting noticeably lighter and the night was growing colder too. Most of the younger kids had started to head home. Soon it would just be teenagers trying to squeeze out a few extra pieces of candy.

"Thanksgiving coming up. You got any plans?"

Elijah glanced over. He thought about it for a moment, then shrugged.

"Never really had a reason to. I usually work or stay home."

"On Thanksgiving?" Annie frowned. "You can't do that."

"Why not? Been doing it for years."

"Well not this year. 'Cause you got plans now."

"Oh I do?"

"Yes sir. I'm invitin' you over for Thanksgiving," she looked at him with such seriousness. "We usually go back home, but this year everybody's comin' here."

Elijah was quiet at the statement. He didn't know how to take it. He wasn't necessarily nervous to meet the rest of Annie's family, he just didn't know what to expect.

Annie noticed Elijah's silence, and even though she was used to the quiet from him there seemed to be something else in it. She instantly recgonized what it was.

"You'll be fine, baby. I promise. My family can be a bit opinionated and ask too many questions, but they're good people. And think about it this way, Mama likes you. So they got no choice but to respect that."

"Yeah, we'll see."

Elijah looked back out to the street while trying not to think about all the reasons why Annie's family wouldn't like him.

The Week of Thanksgiving, 1958

Annie had spent the entirety of Tuesday morning being passed between family members. The second she'd walked into Ray's house she'd been grabbed into three different hugs before she'd even gotten through the front door good.

Now she was tucked away in the den with all of her girl cousins.

The television was on low in the background, a baby blanket was spread over one couch, shopping bags in the corner, and half-finished cups of tea on side tables. The room smelled faintly like baby powder and perfume.

Annie sat curled into the corner of one of the larger couches with eight-month-old Olivia balanced happily in her lap.

Olivia tried to reach for Annie's necklace, but she gently caught the baby's hand. Olivia giggled at the face Annie made. The sound made everyone smile.

Rosette, Annie's youngest girl cousin and Olivia's mother, shook her head from her spot across the room, "All these babies love Annie so much, they forget they got a mama."

Olivia immediately proved the point by stretching both arms toward Annie's face and squealed.

Victoria, Annie's oldest girl cousin, looked over from where she was stretched across an armchair, "It's 'cause she spoil 'em."

"I do not," Annie gasped.

"You absolutely do."

Annie rolled her eyes.

Olivia had somehow managed to grab a fistful of her curls. Annie carefully untangled the tiny fingers.

"Y'all are mean."

"No. You just hate us being honest," Victoria smirked.

Annie stuck her tongue out.

Victoria looked at her and shook her head, "Twenty-six years old and still act eight."

Victoria had always been this way with Annie. Being almost five years older than her, Victoria spent most of their childhood watching out for her younger cousin. She always joked about how Annie was her first baby long before she even had jeremy.

Annie learned so many things because of Victoria. She learned how to braid hair, learned how to do her makeup, learned how to drive, and learned what she did know about boys because of her.

Most of the things Annie knew about being a grown woman had come from sitting at Victoria's feet growing up. Which was exactly why she always listened when Victoria spoke.

"Anyways, I heard some things about you, Annette," Rosette's voice was teasing. "Mama Nette told Mama that you seeing somebody. When exactly were you plannin' on tellin' us?"

Annie sighed so dramatically before saying, "I was waiting."

"Waiting for what?" Victoria spoke up.

Annie opened her mouth then immediately closed it because she didn't actually know.

The women laughed at her facial expression. Even Olivia started laughing despite having absolutely no idea what was happening. Annie kissed the baby's chubby cheek.

"So when we meeting him?" Rosette asked.

"Thursday," Annie absentmindedly bounced Olivia.

The room got quieter as every woman exchanged a look.

"On Thanksgiving?" Esther, her cousin William Jr's wife, asked.

Annie nodded.

"Sounds like it's getting pretty serious," Thelma, her cousin Johnathon's fiancée, said in agreement.

"I guess," Annie shrugged her shoudlers.

"What does 'I guess' mean?" Victoria stared at her.

Annie sighed.

For the next twenty minutes she found herself answering question after question. Like how old was he, what did he do, was. henice, and was he handsome. The women were like sharks who smelled spilled blood.

Eventually Esther tilted her head, ready to ask the question that nobody else seemed to want to ask, "So, have you lost your virginity yet?"

It was quiet except for the sounds of Annie choking. The quietness lingered until Annie finally mumbled, "No."

Victoria spoke in a soft voice, "That's perfectly fine. You do that when you ready, ain't no rush."

Annie relaxed slightly as she stared down at Olivia, "I think...I think I want to."

That surprised even her. The words had come out before she'd really thought about them.

Annie rubbed Olivia's tiny back.

"I don't know," she laughed nervously. "It's weird."

"How?" Rosette asked gently.

"It's like…" Annie searched for the words. "I feel a way I never felt before. I'm comfortable now, but I still don't know how ready I am."

Rosette smiled.

"Then don't worry about it. When we meet him we'll let you know," Rosette smiled. "We'll figure him out."

Olivia yawned against Annie's chest. She smiled and kissed her forehead.

The rest of the afernoon went on with them all talking and laughing like they normally do when they all got together. Every now and then, one of the children would run into the room to ask a question or because they needed something.

After hours of family time, Annie felt worn out and ready to head home. They all said their brief goodbyes and headed their separate ways.

When Annie got back home, the noise of family didn't settle. In fact it only stayed with her.

Her Aunt Clarisse, Rosette, Olivia, and Rosette's husband Lance, were staying at her home. Though it wasn't that many extra people, Annie and Mama Nette were used to it being just the two of them. Now, the house was filled with constant noise of footsteps and a baby.

Annie stood in the foyer for a second as everyone moved around her. It was then that she decided that she didn't want to be there.

She headed up the stairs to her room. It seemed to be the only place that hadn't been overtaken by family. The silence that followed with the door closing made Annie sigh. She loved her family, but she needed a little break.

Annie walked over to her dresser and started pulling things out like a nightgown, three dresses, her hair scarf, a toothbrush, and a few other things. It was just enough for the night, and maybe another. She shoved it all into a small bag.

She went back downstairs, trying to speed past her nosey family members. But it was just her luck that she ran right into her grandmother. The older woman got one good look at the bag and made a humming sound.

"You not gone be late are you?"

"No ma'am. I promise," Annie kissed her grandmother's cheek.

She gripped her bag tight and headed out the door before anyone else could stop her.

By the time she pulled up to Elijah's apartment building, the sun was starting to set. She headed to the door and knocked only twice. A few seconds later the door opened, and Elijah stood there looking genuinely confused.

"Bunny? What you doing here?"

Annie held up the bag.

"It's too many people at my house and I figured you wouldn't mind me stayin' for a while."

Annie stepped inside as soon as he moved aside.

"No I don't," he said as he shut the door behind her.

Elijah took the bag from her shoulder and carried to the bedroom.

Annie felt herself relax at how quiet the apartment was.

When he came back, she was stretched across his couch with her shoes kicked off and head rested against the cushion. He sat beside her with one arm stretched across the back of the couch. She sat up and scooted as close as possible.

"How's your family doing Bunny? I'm sure you missed them."

Annie started telling him everything about her family. All the old things and the new ones. Like how big the children have gotten, or the new jobs and houses her cousins have, or how her Aunt Clarisse's shop is doing back home.

Every few minutes Elijah would hum, nod, or ask a question, but mostly he listened. Which was one of Annie's favorite things about him. He always listened, and hours later he could repeat the entire conversation back to her.

Eventually Annie's voice softened, and the nonstop faded away. The exhaustion of the day finally caught up to her. He wrapped an arm around her, thumb gently rubbing her arm.

The rest of the evening passed with the television taking place of their conversation. The apartment had beco e warm and quiet as the hours passed by.

Eventually Annie glanced toward the clock, and realized how late it had gotten.

"It's so late. I need to get ready for bed," Annie stood and smoothed down her skirt. "I'll be right back."

Elijah nodded, "Okay."

She grabbed her bag and disappeared into the bathroom.

The second the door shut she leaned against it and sighed. Her nerves were slowly starting to catch up with her. This was just Elijah. Yet somehow she still felt shy.

Annie took her shower and the warm water helped to ease her mind. After her shower she went through the rest of her routine, brushing her teeth, wrapping her hair, putting on lotion, then changing into her nightgown.

When she left the bathroom, Elijah was standing near the bedroom door digging through his dresser. He looked up when he heard the door open.

His eyes traveled over her for only a second before settling back on her face. Annie looked away as he stared at her. The floor suddenly seemed very interesting.

"You're gorgeous, you know that?"

The compliment sent heat rushing to her cheeks.

"Thank you," her voice came out much smaller than intended.

Elijah crossed the room, reaching her in a few strides. His hands settled against her waist and he shook his head.

"You ain't gotta thank me for tellin' the truth."

The blush on her face only deepened.

"I'm gonna get cleaned up," he kissed her forehead then stepped away.

"O-Okay," Annie nodded.

He disappeared into the bathroom. And a few moments later she heard the shower start.

Annie wandered her way back out to the couch. There was a certain feeling in the apartment now, and she didn't know what to make of it. Her head was spinning with so many things, so when the phone rang, she jumped.

Her eyebrows furrowed trying to place who would be calling Elijah this late. The ringing continued as she glanced toward the bathroom. Finally, she walked over and picked it up.

"Hello?"

There was a brief pause.

"Annie."

Annie blinked, completely taken aback, "Mama?"

Annette Richard's voice came through clear as day.

"Who else gon' be callin' this man's house this time of night?"

"What you doin' callin' over here?"

"I forgot to remind you not to forget about the pies. And you better off makin' 'em over there since the kitchen gon' be packed the next few days. I think two of each should be good enough."

"Yes ma'am."

The bathroom door opened behind her. Annie looked up and immediately forgot whatever her grandmother had been talking about. Every thought in her head completely disappeared.

Elijah had stepped out while brushing his teeth. He had on a pair of dark pajama pants that hung low on his hips, and no shirt, just bare skin.

Despite noticing her staring, Elijah said nothing. Instead he nodded his head toward the phone in question.

"Who that?"

Annie said nothing, just stared.

Elijah frowned, "Bunny?"

Still nothing.

Her grandmother's voice came through the receiver.

"Annette?"

Annie snapped back to reality.

"Huh?"

"You heard me?"

"Yes ma'am."

She absolutely had not been listening.

"You be careful. And come back the same way you left. Understand me?"

"Mama!"

"I love you. Goodnight."

Then the line went dead.

Elijah still stood by the bathroom doorway waiting on an answer.

"Who was on the phone?"

Annie's eyes darted everywhere except toward him.

"Stop lookin' at me," the words came out much harsher than she really wanted them to. t

Elijah's eyebrows shot up in slight shock, "Sorry."

The apology was so quick that Annie instantly felt bad. She rubbed her forehead.

"No, it ain't you, baby," she rubbed her forehead. "It was just my grandmother on the phone. SHe was reminding me about making the pies for Thanksgiving."

Elijah nodded slowly. He was still trying to figure out what had her acting so strange all of a sudden.

Annie looked away again. Her heart was beating entirely too fast. The image of Elijah right in fornt of her was doing nothing good to her mind. She chose to fold her arms.

"I'm just tired, that's all," she took a pause. "I think I'm ready for bed."

Elijah studied her for a long moment. It was long enough that Annie started feeling nervous.

"I don't want you uncomfortable, so you can have the bedroom and I'll just sleep on the couch."

Annie's shoulders relaxed. She was a mix of relieved and guilty.

"You don't gotta do that."

"I don't mind. I want you comfortable."

Annie looked down at her bare feet, focusing on the way the soft cotton of her nightgown brushed against her calves.

"Okay, thank you," she nodded once.

"You're welcome," Elijah simply dipped his head.

Annie faced toward the bedroom ready to escape. She needed space to feel all these feelings she had. She only made it a few steps when fingers lightly wrapped around her arm. She turned around only to find herself standing much closer to Elijah than she had been previously.

A tiny sound escaped her as her eyes widened.

"You was just gonna go to bed? You ain't forgettin' somethin'?" Elijah looked amused.

She swallowed hard.

The man was so close she could smell the soap he used. She could feel the warmth coming off him. Her thoughts were becoming less and less useful by the second.

"I—"

Elijah patiently waited with one eyebrow raised.

Annie finally managed a weak, "Goodnight, Elijah."

A 'tsk' sound quickly left out of his mouth, "Bunny. That ain't a real goodnight."

Her face heated up all over again.

He looked at her like she was the most precious thing in the world. As if she was something worth being careful with. And in his eyes she always would be.

Before she could say anything, Elijah's hand slowly came up. His fingers found her chin with a gentle touch as he tilted her face up so she couldn't look at anything but him.

Annie's breath caught in her throat.

He leaned down. His lips met hers softly at first, testing to see how far he could go. The kiss was warm and slow, lips barely pressing. When he realized that she wasn't pulling away, Elijah pressed in deeper. His tongue reached out in question.

Annie hesitated for a split second. Her heart was beating so loud so could've sworn he could hear it. Once she pulled herself together, her lips parted just enough for. his tongue to slid in against hers.

The kiss quickened after that. What had started as something gentle and soft had turned into something that could be named as hunger. Their mouths moved together in a way that made her knees weak.

Elijah's hands went to her waist, then slid slightly lower to the thickness of her hips and pulled her flush against him. She could feel his body heat through the thin fabric of her nightgown.

Annie accidentally moaned into his mouth. The sound was swallowed up by the way he kissed her so completely. Her hands came up to grip the back of his head and pulled him closer. She was desperate to taste more of him, and to feel him.

Elijah grunted in answer. His grip tghtening on her body before his hands roamed her softness like her was trying to memorize every dip and curve.

Eventually he pulled back just enough to break the kiss. His forehead rested against hers for a moment. Then he tilted his head and pressed a gentle kiss to her cheek, then another just beneath her jaw, then another against the side of her neck.

Annie couldn't help the shiver that ran through her body at the feeling.

Elijah's voice came out rough when he finally spoke against her throat, "I love you, Annie."

Her eyes went wide. This wasn't exactly shocking. She'd known this for a while. The way he looked at her, the way he touched her, they way he talked to her. The way he professed himself in front of the schoolhouse. Annie just knew. But still, hearing the words out loud was different. Her chest tightened and her fingers twitched against his scalp.

He gave her one more soft and sweet peck on the lips, then stepped back to give her air.

"Goodnight, Annie," his voice came out low and rough.

Before she could think to say it back, he pressed a brief kiss to her forehead then stepped away.

Annie stood there trying to collect herself.

"Get some sleep," Elijah nodded toward the bedroom. "Get some sleep."

"O-Okay," she nodded.

Annie turned and hurried into the bedroom before she embarrassed herself any further. The door clicked shut behind her, leaving an overwhelming silence.

She climbed beneath the blankets and pulled them all the way up to her chin. Then stared at the ceiling, willing for her eyes to close. Five minutes passed. Then ten. Then twenty. Yet sleep never came. She rolled onto one side, the other, and then onto her back again.

The room wasn't unfamiliar. She'd spent plenty of time in Elijah's apartment. But tonight everything was different.

Maybe because this was the first time she was spending the night. Maybe because Thanksgiving was so soon and her entire family was waiting to meet him. Or maybe it was the way he felt, shirtless pressed against—

Annie buried her face in a pillow, wishing for the thoughts of had happened only moments before fogged up her head.

Because for all her years of saying she wasn't ready, and the confusion, and worrying, and overthinking, she was beginning to realize that she was very very much in love with Elijah Moore.

Annie woke up a tad bit earlier than she normally did. And for a moment she forgot where she was. She stared up at the the unfamiliar ceiling until it all came back to her. She was in Elijah's apartment.

The fact that she had barely slept because her mind would not stop replaying everything from the night before. And thinking about it made her stomach flutter.

After another minute of hiding beneath the covers, she forced herself out of bed. The apartment was quiet as she padded into the bathroom and got ready for the day.

When she finished, she had on one of the dresses she brought and took down her hair. It was a bit chilly, but she didn't mind it.

She moved to the kitchen and immediately go to work. After digging through Elijah's cabinets and refrigerator, she managed to piece something together for breakfast.

Annie hummed under her breath while she worked. She was standing over the stove when she heard heavy footsteps and a yawn behind her.

"Mornin'," his voice was rough with sleep.

Before she could turn around, strong arms wrapped around her waist. A smile spread across her face as Elijah buried his face against the side of her head. His chest was warm against her back. And for every reason, Annie found it all so very distracting.

"Good mornin'," Annie bit her lip.

She turned her head slightly, looking at him over her shoulder clearly waiting.

"You waitin' on somethin'?" A smirk tugged at his mouth.

Annie just quickly lifted her eyebrows up.

He chuckled then leaned down and gave her a good, somewhat quick, peck on the lips. It wasn't quite enough to satisfy her, but it would do for the time being. Especially since Elijah hadn't gotten ready for the day yet.

"What got you up this early?"

Annie turned back toward the stove.

"I don't quite know," Annie turned back to the stove. "I do have to make the pies today."

"Sounds like a lot of work."

"Not really," Annie shrugged.

As she spoke she glanced over her shoulder at him. Her eyes landed on his hair and her brows furrowed. Annie tilted her head.

"When the last time you got your hair done?"

"What's wrong with it?" His hand immediately went to his head.

"Ain't nothin' wrong with it," she laughed.

"You makin' it sound like it is."

"It just needs a little attention is all," Annie smiled at him sweetly. "Maybe you'll let me practice on you. I think it'll look nice."

"I guess I'll let you long as you don't have me out here lookin' crazy."

They talked more while breakfast finished cooking. A few minutes later they were sitting across from each other at the small kitchen table.

Morning sunlight filtered through the windows. The apartment felt cozy and comfortable like they'd been doing this for years.

"We need to do more for that bedroom. It's sad in there."

"Well, it's enough for me," Elijah looked up from his food.

"It ain't for me," Annie pointed her fork at him. "It's only a bed, a dresser, and one picture. That ain't enough. It should feel like more. Don't you like what I did in the living room?"

"I do Bunny."

"So let me do I wat I do. I'll get some nice curtains, a rug, maybe even a chair. It'll look so good when I'm finished."

Elijah shook his head before spooning more food into his mouth, "You can do whatever you want."

A dangerous smile slowly spread across her face.

Breakfast went on with the conversation going from decorations to church to school to Christmas. They had an easy rhythm going that never let up.

When hey finished, Annie stood up ready to get the day going. She had a productive day ahead of her and needed to get an early start.

Elijah disappeared to get dressed while Annie cleaned up the kitchen. It didn't take him long. A few minutes later he reappeared dressed for the day. They gathered their things and headed downstairs.

The morning air was cool. It made Annie tuck her hands into her dress pockets while she waited for Elijah to unlock the car.

Once he got it, he opened the passenger door for her and she got in the car with a smile. He shut the door behind her and headed to the driver's side. The engine was started and the radio played softly.

He drove them to the grocery store, so Annie would be able to pick up the things that she needed. The store was already a bit busy by the time they arrived. The parking lot was half full when Elijah pulled in.

Annie looked around and sighed, "All this last minute shoppin' people doin'."

"And you one of 'em," Elijah grabbed a cart from the front of the store.

"Well, I have a reason."

"Bunny, you coulda brought what you needed over," he pushed the cart toward her.

"Oh, you just shut up."

Elijah simply chuckled at his woman.

The second they stepped inside, Annie moved with a purpose leading them around. The first stop was produce, then dairy, then baking supplies. They eventually had to go back to the produce area because Annie forgot something. The entire trip consisted of Annie bouncing from one aisle to the next while Elijah pushed the growing cart behind her.

Annie not only got the supplies for the pies, she also got some simple things just to have in Elijah's kitchen. She had ingredients for soups, sandwiches, and breakfast items. It was all things she knew were simple enough for him to make.

Eventually they found themselves in the beauty aisle. Annie examined every bottle and jar, deciding to just stick with her tried and true Murray's pomade and Madam C.J. Walker's vegetable shampoo. She also grabbed a comb and some clips.

The trip ended up taking nearly forty-five minutes. By the time they reached the checkout line, the cart was completely full.

Annie reached into her purse for her money as the cashier began totaling everything up on the register. Elijah saw that and became instantly annoyed.

"Bunny."

She ignored him and started to count the bills she pulled out.

Elijah's hand seemed to appear out of nowhere, taking the money out of her hand.

"Give me my money, Elijah."

"No," Elijah pulled his hand away as Annie tried to reach for it. "Bunny, you know you ain't paying for nothin' while I'm standin' right here."

Annie crossed her arms, a slight pout on her face.

Elijah handed her back her money and pulled out his wallet, "Put that damn money away, woman."

The deep warning in his voice left Annie no room to argue. She just sighed dramatically and did as told.

Elijah paid for the items and loaded the bags back into the cart. They headed to the car, put everything in, and headed back to Elijah's.

When they got back to his place, they both carried everything upstairs. The kitchen counters quickly filled with groceries. Annie immediately got to work with organizing it all. She left the pie ingredients and hair care on the counter, but put everything else away in its proper spots.

After everything was properly put away, Annie gathered up the hair products and turned to face Elijah. She had a little smirk on her face.

"Can you go get me a towel please?"

Elijah narrowed his eyes but did as he was told. A few seconds later he came back holding a clean towel over his shoulder.

"Thank you. Now take your shirt off so it doesn't get wet," one of his eyebrows lifted.

The look she gave him afterward made a grin slowly spread across his face.

"Elijah…" Annie immediately rolled her eyes.

"I ain't say nothin'."

Still smiling, Elijah grabbed the hem of his shirt and pulled it over his head.

The years of army life and physical labor had done his body good. Even despite the scars that she could see. He was solid with broad shoulders and strong arms. And, sure, he didn't necessarily have to take his shirt off for her to wash his hair, but it seemed after the view last night Annie wanted more.

"Come here," Annie quickly reached for the towel.

She ignored his growing grin, wrapping the towel around his bare shoulders and pushed him toward he sink. The kitchen quickly filled with the sound of running water.

"Bend down for me."

"Yes ma'am," The teasing in his voice made her shake her head.

Elijah bent over the sink while Annie carefully wet his hair. Her fingers moved through the thick curls, making sure every section was soaked.

Annie glanced down when she noticed that Elijah's eyes were closed, "You alright?"

"Yeah, this just feels good."

A smile tugged at her lips. She poured shampoo into her hand and began working it through his hair. Her fingers scratched lightly against his scalp.

Elijah let out a low hum.

Annie continued scrubbing and eventually it was time to rinse the soap away. She wrapped the towel around his head and gently rubbed away the excess water.

"Alright, go sit in. the living room."

"Yes ma'am."

He stood and walked away.

A few minutes later Annie entered the living room carrying the comb, pomade, and clips. He had urned the television on and it was playing with the volume lowered.

Elijah sat on the floor in front of the couch.

Annie settled behind him and pulled him back until he was fit comfortably between her legs. She began combing through his damp hair. The process would take some time and patience because it looked like Elijah did't care to take good care of his hair for awhile.

Annie carefully parted the first section, using a little pomade to help. Then she began braiding. She went slow and steady to get used to it. The first braid came out slightly crooked and thick. It made her frown.

She got back to work and the next braid came out a bit straighter. Her hands were starting to find a rhythm and all the braids were getting better as time went on.

The repetitive motions were gradually lulling Elijah to sleep. Every few minutes his head would dip forward and Annie would gently catch it. Eventually he keptdoing it, so she guided it sideways until it rested against her thigh.

While Annie continued braiding, every so often Elijah absentmindly rubbed her calf where it rested beside him. He even pressed a quick kiss to her leg.

The afternoon slipped by. And before either of them knew it, all eight braids were finished.

Annie sat back to inspect her work.

They weren't perfect by far. A few parts weren't exactly straight. One braid was slightly thicker than the rest. Still she thinks she's proud.

Still, she felt proud.

She leaned forward and pressed a kiss to the side of his head. The movement startled him awake.

"You're done baby," she smiled.

Elijah blinked several times before slowly standing. He stretched his arms over his head and headed toward the bathroom.

Annie followed behind him nervously.

He stood in front of the mirror examining the braids from every angle. Turning his head left to right.

"What do you think?" Annie folded her arms.

He kept looking. And the longer he stayed silent, the more worried she became.

"It's not good? I can take i down," she sighed.

Elijah looked at her through the mirror. A light smile hit her face.

"Bunny, you did good."

"Really? You ain't just saying that?"

"No I mean it."

He turned his head again and a laugh escaped him this time.

"You know what?" he stared at himself in the mirror. "I really do look like my brother now."

"Not like it's a bad thing, y'all are twins," Annie giggled.

"Naw, it ain't."

He reached for her hand and pulled her closer.

The reflection looking back at them made something warm settle in his chest. Elijah squeezed her hand then lifted it to kiss it.

"I just might have to keep you around, Ms. Richard," he said quietly.

Annie rolled her eyes despite the smile on her face.

"I got work to do," she told him softly.

He leaned down and stole one more quick kiss, "Go on then."

Annie laughed and lightly pushed at his chest. Then turned and headed to the kitchen while Elijah remained standing there watching her go. And truth be told, he liked seeing her take over his space. Whenever she was over, the place always felt less empty.

He leaned against the doorway while Annie got to work. The ingredients covered the counters. She had subtly started to rearragne the kitchen to her liking. She was moving around the area like it was hers alone.

She went from pulling bowls down, to peeling sweet potatoes, to mixing different ingredients together. Elijah stood beside the counter watching her work.

"You need somethin'?" Annie asked without looking up as she rolled out the pie crust.

"No."

"Well, you just been watchin' me like you do."

"I can't just watch you?"

"You ain't got nothin' better to do?" Annie smiled despite herself.

"Nope."

She shook her head.

He watched her hands work and concentration settled across her face. She started to hum as she poured ingredients into the bowl. The apartment was starting to smell better with every minute that went by.

At one point Elijah wandered back into the living room and turned on the television. But ten minutes later he was back in the kitchen.

"Why you come back in here botherin' me?" Annie looked over at him.

"It smell good in here."

"Don't be gettin' in my way, Elijah," she rolled her eyes.

Time went by and the sun had started to set. The apartment was growing darker so Annie switched on the kitchen and continued working.

Annie poured up the pie fillings for all six pies then put three of them into the oven.

It took a few hours, but eventually the pies were finished. She carefully placed all six pies on the counter and stepped back looking on in satisfaction.

Suddenly, a yawn escaped her. The long day was catching up to her and she was noticeably tired now.

Luckily, she had cleaned while she worked so there was nothing she needed to do. She made her way to the bedroom to get ready for bed. She brushed her teeth while Elijah checked the locks on the door.

When she finished, she met back up with him in the small little hallway that led to the bedroom. Elijah leaned down and pressed a gentle kiss against her forehead.

"Goodnight, Bunny."

"Goodnight, Elijah," Annie smiled softly.

"Sleep good tonight," He brushed his knuckles against her cheek.

"You too."

A grounding aroma of simmering okra, garlic, and the earthy sweetness of turnip greens filled the atmosphere of the Moore household. Annie moved through the kitchen with grace, her plush figure draped in a soft, cream-colored robe that clung to the generous curves of her hips and the heavy swell of her breasts. She was preparing for her evening bath, her mind drifting toward the quietude of the water. 

That’s when she heard the heavy thud of the front door echoing through the house. 

She didn’t need to look at the clock to know it was Smoke. She could feel him, the way the energy in the room transitioned, a wave of cold, hard steel crashing against the warmth of her sanctuary. 

When he stepped into the kitchen, he looked like a man who had walked through hell and brought some of the soot back with him. His Gatsby cap was pulled low, shadowing eyes that were vacant and haunted, his jaw set in a line of rigid tension. He didn’t speak; Smoke rarely did when the weight of his work was pressing down on his shoulders. He simply stopped in front of her, his presence towering and oppressive, yet desperate.

Annie didn’t ask about his day. She didn’t ask who he had broken or what he had seen. She simply opened her arms, Smoke collapsing into her, his large frame sinking into the softness of her body. He buried his face in the crook of her neck, inhaling the scent of magnolia and vanilla that radiated from her dark skin. His arms wrapped around her waist, his large hands squeezing the lush meat of her hip, anchoring himself to the only thing in the world that felt real. Annie let out a soft, humming sound, her arms winding around his broad shoulders, her fingers digging into the tension of his upper back. 

“You home,” she whispered, her voice a velvet balm. 

He groaned low in his throat, a sound of pure exhaustion, and pulled back just enough to capture her lips in a kiss. It wasn’t a gentle kiss; it was hungry and possessives. A silent demand for grounding. He tasted of stale tobacco and something metallic, but Annie met his intensity with a patient, nurturing heat, her full lips molding against his. 

Slowly, she began to peel the world away from him. Her soft hands reached up to take the cap from his head, setting it aside. His slicked hair came into view, neatly parted and still in place despite the way he was feeling. She slid the heavy wool suit jacket off his shoulder, gunpowder residue clinging tenaciously to the fabric. Then, her fingers moved to the buttons of his dress shirt. One by one, she popped them open, revealing the stark white tank top stretched tight across his massive chest and the hard ridges of his abdomen.

“Sit,” Annie commanded gently, guiding him to the heavy oak kitchen table. 

Smoke obeyed without question, his movements sluggish. He sat, his large hands resting flat on the table, gaze fixed on her with an intensity that bordered on worship. 

Annie ladled a steaming bowl of gumbo, thick with okra and seafood, and placed a generous slab of golden cornbread and a heap of turnip greens beside it. She didn’t leave him to eat; she stayed. As Smoke began to eat, the warmth of the food slowly thawing the ice in his veins, Annie stepped behind him. She placed her palms on his shoulders, her fingers finding the knots of tension that lived permanently in his trapezius muscles. She leaned in, the weight of her breasts pressing against his back, her warmth seeping through the thin cotton of his tank top. 

She began to massage him, her thumbs digging deep into the muscles, kneading away the violence of the day. Smoke let out a long, shuddering breath, his head dropping forward as he focused on the taste of her cooking and the feeling of her hands. A dangerous man being brought back to life by the woman who owned his soul. 

Annie leaned down, her lips brushing the shell of his ear. She spoke in a low, melodic whisper, the ancient tones of Yoruba flowing from her, the words a secret language of devotion and healing that only the two of them shared in the sanctity of their home. She pressed a lingering warm kiss to the side of his neck, her lips molding to his skin, leaving a mark of ownership and peace. 

Annie moved around the table, sliding into the chair beside him. With practiced, nimble fingers, she reached for his tobacco and rolling papers. Smoke watched her in a heavy glazed silence, his gaze tracing the way her breasts swayed beneath her cream-colored robe as she worked. She rolled the cigarettes with precision that was almost meditative, her movements fluid. When she finished, she set the hand-rolled cigarettes on the table and stood, gathering his empty plate. 

As she moved to the sink to clean the remains of gumbo, Smoke reached for one of the cigarettes, the familiar ritual grounding him. He stood and walked out to the back porch, the screen door clicking shut behind him. The night air was thick and smelling of rich, black earth baked by sun. River water from bayous, creeks, and drainage ditches. Corn, sorghum, and vegetable gardens. Cypress and oak after rain. Mule sweat. And humidity itself. 

Smoke leaned against the railing, the orange-cherry of his cigarette glowing in the dark. He inhaled deeply, the nicotine mixing with the lingering scent of Annie’s vanilla and magnolia that clung to his skin. He stared out into the blackness of trees, letting the silence of the Delta swallow the noise of the violence he had dealt with earlier. He stayed there until the cigarette was a mere stub, then crushed it out with a slow motion of his thumb. 

When he stepped back inside, he washed his hands in the basin, grabbed some water from the icebox to wash down his food properly, and headed to their bedroom. Past their bed with an iron frame that produced loud squeaks whenever Smoke pounded into his wife. He removed his shoes, the wooden floorboards creaking beneath his feet. 

Annie was there, waiting. She had already begun to prepare for her bath, the room warm and humid. She didn’t say a word. She could feel the residue of his burdens, the tight coil of stress that still lived in the base of his spine and the hardness in his eyes. She knew the hunger that came with his exhaustion—a need not just for sex, but for the raw, scant-driven surrender that only she could provide.

Her gaze locked onto his, dark and knowing. Slowly, Annie reached beneath the hem of her robe. Her fingers hooked onto the waistband of her cotton bloomers, and with a slow, teasing slide, she stepped out of them. 

The fabric was damp, clinging to the lush, heavy curves of her thighs and saturated with the concentrated essence of her womanhood—the musk of her heat, the sweetness of her skin, and the deep, earthy scent of her arousal. 

Annie stepped closer to him, her eyes never leaving his, and dropped the warm, scented fabric directly into his large, calloused hand. The bloomers felt heavy and humid against his palm. 

Annie gave him one last, lingering look, then she turned and walked away, leaving him alone. 

Smoke stood frozen, his chest heaving slowly, his large hand tighter around the fabric. For Smoke, this wasn’t just a fetish; it was a grounding ritual. A way to purge the metallic tang of blood and the acrid smell of gunpowder that seemed to permanently stain his soul. 

Slowly, he brought the fabric to his face, closing his eyes as he inhaled the intoxicating, pungent cocktail of her natural musk, the sweetness of her fragrance and the salty, primal scent of her arousal, the only thing capable of truly silencing the noise on his head. He didn’t just sniff them; he pressed the fabric deep into his nostrils, molding the cotton against the bridge of his nose and cheeks, sealing himself off from the rest of the world. 

Smoke took a deep, shuddering breath, inhaling the scent with a violent intensity. The smell hit him like a physical blow. It was the scent of home, of safety, and of an overwhelming, earthy femininity. It was the smell of Annie’s plush, heavy thighs and the deep hidden folds of her pussy. The aroma was rich and fermented, a heady mix of vanilla, magnolia, and the raw musk-heavy scent of a woman in her prime. 

As the scent filled his lungs, Smoke’s eyes drifted shut, his heavy lids fluttering. A low, guttural groan vibrated in his throat, a sound of pure, unadulterated surrender. The tension that had been coiled in his shoulders since dawn finally snapped. The ghosts of the men he’d killed, the screams, the suffocation of the Delta night—all of it was drowned out by the intoxicating potency of his wife. 

His body reacted instantly. Beneath his dark slacks, his thick, heavy dick surged to life, straining against the fabric. It throbbed with a demanding pulse, the head of his dick curving to the right, pressing hard against his thigh. He could feel the pre-cum leaking, wetting his underwear as his mind conjured the image of Annie’s full-bodied plushness, the way her heavy breasts would sway and how her wide, lush lips would feel beneath his palms. 

Smoke repositioned his grip, rubbing the fabric of the bloomers against his lips, tasting the faint, salty residue of her sweat and heat. He inhaled again, deeper this time, pulling the scent into the very depths of his chest until he felt lightheaded. The musk acted like a drug, stripping away his discipline, leaving only the raw, possessive hunger of a man who belonged entirely to the woman who wore these clothes. 

Smoke pressed the cotton harder against his face, breathing becoming ragged and shallow. He imagined he could feel her presence in the fabric—the warmth of her skin, the softness of her curves. He was anchored now, pulled back from the edge of the darkness by the scent of her womanhood. 

Smoke stood there lost in the sensory overload. His large frame trembled slightly. He was a deadly man, a killer feared by many, but in the solitude of this room, clutching a piece of damp cotton, he was nothing more than a devotee at an altar, completely consumed by the scent of the woman who had held his heart and his sanity in her hands. 

Annie stood by the edge of the clawfoot tub, the steam beginning to curl around her ankles, leaving her completely exposed in the dim lighting of the bathroom. She was a masterpiece of abundance, a landscape of deep, ebony skin that flowed with a soft, natural luster. Her breasts we’re heavy and lush, hanging with a natural, weighted grace, the dark wide areolas peaking through the mist. Her waist dipped inward, creating a dramatic curve that led to the magnificent expanse of her hips—wide, fertile, and sweeping. Her belly was soft, a gentle rounded swell that spoke of warmth and nourishment, leading down to a thick, neatly groomed mound of curls that guarded her honeyed heat. Her thighs were pillars of plushness, rubbing together with every slight movement of weight, and her rear was a heavy, rounded bounty that seemed to defy gravity, shaking slightly with the motion of her hips.

Just as she prepared to step into the water, the door creaked open. Smoke stood there, his silhouette filling the frame, his presence instantly sucking the air out of the room. His eyes—dark and predatory—swept over her nakedness with a hunger that was almost violent. His gaze locked onto hers, his face a mask of hard, disciplined desire. 

“Don’t wash yet.” He commanded.

His voice wasn’t a request; it was a low, guttural vibration that seemed to echo in the very marrow of her bones. It was primal, stripped of all civility, carrying the weight of a man who spent the day dealing in death and now craved the only thing that could bring him back to life. The sheer dominance in his tone sent a jolt of electricity straight to Annie’s core, making her clit twitch and jump against her thighs, a sudden, wet pulse of arousal that left her breathless. 

“Get back in this room.” Smoke commanded 

“Why?” Annie questioned, although she knew why. Like she didn’t just hand over her draws soaked in her pussy. 

“Cause I said so.” Smoke replied with finality. 

Without a word, Annie obeyed. The submission was instinctive, a response to the raw power radiating off him. She turned and walked back into the bedroom, her heavy hips swaying, her plush thighs brushing together with a soft shuck-shuck sound. When she reached the vanity, she gripped the polished wood and leaned forward, bending deep at the waist. She poked her ass out, offering herself to him, her massive, rounded cheeks framing the hidden entrance to her heat. 

Smoke approached her slowly, his feet silent on the floorboards. He didn’t touch her at first, he simply stood behind her, his predatory gaze devouring the sight of her bent-over posture. He could see the way her skin stretched over the fullness of her rear, the deep dimples at the base of her spine. 

He reached out, his hands spanning the width of her cheeks. He began to stroke her, his palms sliding over the velvet softness of their skin, kneading the heavy flesh of her ass with a possessive grip. Then, with a sudden, firm movement, he hooked his fingers into the crease of her thighs and pulled her cheeks apart. 

The sound was visceral—a wet, tacky schlick as the suction of her plush cheeks broke, the skin peeling away from itself with a moist sliding noise. 

As Smoke pulled her open, the view was breathtaking. The stark contrast of his rough fingers against her glowing skin highlighted the vulnerability and the invitation. Her pussy was revealed in all its glory. A plump, swollen slot of deep pink and mauve, glistening with a thick layer of translucent arousal. The outer lips were heavy and lush, pushed aside to reveal the tight, pulsing opening of her canal and the hooded, engorged pearl of her clit, which was weeping with desire. 

Smoke sank to his knees with a heavy thud, his breath hitching. From this angle, he was staring directly into the heart of her. He was blown away by the sight—the sheer, fertile abundance of her, the scent of her musk hitting him in a concentrated wave, mixing with the smell of the room. He looked at the way her heavy thighs trembled and how her pussy pulsed in time with her heartbeat, a raw, opening invitation that promised total consumption. Smoke stayed there for a moment, frozen in awe, a predator captivated by the absolute beauty of his prey. 

“Lines to a Nasturtium.” Smoke whispered, breathy and full of desire.

Up close, the sight was hypnotic. Smoke watched with a predatory intensity as her clit, a swollen, engorged m pearl of deep mauve began to twitch. It was a frantic, involuntary pulsing, jumping against the hood of her pussy as it sought a friction that wasn’t there yet. The sheer anticipation of his presence, the raw dominance of his command, had pushed her body into a state of desperate readiness. 

Below the twitchy pearl, her creamy canal was reacting in kind. Smoke could see the plush walls of her opening clenching and releasing, a hungry contraction that gripped at the empty air. Her pussy was breathing, the tight ring of muscle pulsing in a desperate attempt to pull him inside, the walls sliding against one another in a wet, sliding motion that produced a faint, squelching sound. 

The longer he stared, the more her body surrendered to him. The arousal became a flood. A thick, translucent trail of clear cream began to seep from her depths, glistening under the light. It pooled momentarily on her labia before gravity took hold and a single, heavy drop of nectar began to slide slowly down the curve of her clit, tracing a shimmering path toward the floor. Smoke’s dark eyes followed the drip with a focused, singular intensity, his pupils blown wide, tracking every millimeter of its descent as if it were the only thing that existed in the world. 

Smoke leaned in closer, his face just inches away from her. The scent of her—that heady, musk-heavy aroma of a woman in peak arousal—bit him like a physical blow, making his thick dick throb violently against the fabric of his slacks. Smoke didn’t touch her yet because he wanted her to ache. He wanted her to feel the void where he should be. 

Annie’s palms were pressed flat against the cool wood, her spine arching beautifully. The position thrust her wide, plush hips back, offering her full, rounded ass and plump pussy to him like a feast. The deep dark crease where her cheeks parted. Swollen pussy lips just between them. 

He leaned forward, his warm breath ghosting over her sensitive flesh, sending a fresh wave of shivers through her plush thighs. His tongue caught the dripping trail as it spilled like warm honey. He savored the flavor on his tongue before licking his lips. When he spoke, his voice was a low, gravelly rasp that seemed to hum directly onto her clit. 

“I’m a lick every bit of this sweetness…” Smoke rumbled, his voice a low, a deep vibration. “Bury my tongue deep in ya and lap you clean ‘til you screamin’ my name.” 

Without waiting for a word, Smoke pressed his face flush against her, his tongue sweeping in one long, wet stroke from her opening all the way down to her clit just hanging there begging for attention. 

Annie let out a sharp, strangled gasp, her fingers clawing at the vanity as her back arched further. The sound of it, the wet slapping noise of his tongue meeting her drenched folds filled the space. 

Smoke groaned deep in his chest, the sound primal and hungry. He began to lap at her greedily, his tongue broad and rough, mimicking the motion of a dick. He focused on her clit, swirling his tongue around the swollen bud before sucking it firmly into his mouth. 

Annie’s legs trembled, her knees nearly buckling as she let out a loud, guttural moan. She was soaking him now, her juices coating his lips and chin, but he ain’t give a fuck. He wanted every drop. Smoke pushed two fingers deep inside her, feeling the tight, hot walls of her pussy clamp down on him in a frantic, come-hither motion like he was exercising his trigger finger, all while his tongue continued to punish her clit with relentless pressure. 

Smoke was possessed. Driven by a primal hunger that had been simmering since he first pressed her scent-soaked bloomers to his face. The smell of her—that heavy, musk-laden sweetness—had snapped something inside him, and now he was taking it out on her pussy with a predatory vigor. He didn’t just lick her; he devoured her. With Annie bent over the vanity, her plush cheeks spread wide by his bruising grip, Smoke buried his face deep into her flower. He was eating her like a starving man, his thick tongue working with a relentless force that left no inch of her untouched. 

Smoke started at her clit, his broad tongue sweeping upward in long, wet strokes that slurped up every drop of her arousal. The sound was visceral—a loud, wet, lapping noise, the sound of his lips slurping her open. Smoke was sucking her pussy clean, lips sealed tight around her swollen folds, pulling the sensitive flesh into his mouth and creating a suction that made Annie’s entire body shudder. 

“Goddamn, you taste like heaven…” Smoke growled against her skin, his voice a vibration she felt deep in her womb. “I’m a drink every last drop of you, Annie. Every single fuckin’ bit.” 

Smoke shifted his focus, his tongue becoming a weapon of ruin. He began to lap at her clit with a frantic, greedy energy, swirling around the engorged bud before sucking it deep into his mouth. Smoke slurped at her, his tongue flicking rapidly, wet, tongue thrashing sounds mixed with her arousal, driving her higher and higher. He was trying to clean her out, his mouth working tirelessly to lap up the thick, creamy juices that were flooding from her. 

Annie was a mess, her fingers digging into the wood of the vanity, her head hanging low as she let out uncontrolled moans. Every time he sucked her in, she felt a jolt of electricity shoot through her spine, her wide hips bucking against his face.

Smoke pushed his face harder against her, his nose pressing right up against her rear entrance, inhaling her intoxicating scent while his tongue—dripping with so much saliva it clung to his goatee—continued to punish her, the wet sounds of his gluttony filling the air—slurp, lap, suck—as he worked his way from her clit up to the very entrance of her canal, licking her clean with a possessive, ritualistic gusto. He wanted her tasted, drained, and completely claimed. He used his thick tongue to probe the opening of her pussy, licking deep inside, tasting the salt and sweetness. He was eating her with a desperation that bordered on violence. 

When that thick, wet muscle slapped against her clit and slurped at her opening with a primal greed Annie was seeing stars. 

The world had shrunk down to the sensation of Smoke’s mouth devouring her. She had been rendered speechless for several long minutes, her breath hitching in jagged gasps, her mind a blur of white heat. But as he continued to suck her—pulling her folds deep into his mouth and creating a seal that felt like it was drawing the very soul out of her—she finally broke.

“Smoke…oh, Smoke…please…” she whimpered, her voice shaky and thin. 

She didn’t know what to do with herself. Her hands, which had been gripping the vanity, began to claw at the wood, then wandered blindly, one hand reaching back to clutch at his head, the other pressing flat against the mirror, leaving a smear of sweat and her fingerprints. She was completely at his mercy, her heavy breasts swinging beneath her, rounded belly trembling with every sound she made. 

Smoke didn’t answer with words. He answered with a deep, vibrating hum that echoed through her entire pelvic floor, a low grunt of satisfaction that vibrated against her clit. He was eating her like she was the only thing keeping him alive, his nose buried in her musk, his tongue flicking with a frantic expert precision that drove her toward the edge. 

The sensation became too much—a tidal wave of pleasure that crashed over her. As the first spasm of her orgasm hit, Annie’s head snapped back, her eyes rolling. In the height of her release, she gasped out a phrase in Yoruba, her voice a melodic, breathless moan. 

"Olúwa, mo n'íyìn rẹ...mọ́ mọ́ mi..."

The words were a prayer and a plea. A surrender to the raw power of the man between her thighs. Her plush body began to shake violently, her wide hips bucking uncontrollably against his face. Her pussy clamped down hard on his tongue, pulsing in thick waves, flooding his mouth with a fresh surge of creamy, hot arousal.

Smoke didn’t give her a second to breathe. As she came, he doubled down, sucking her clit, slurping up the overflow of her climax with a greedy, wet sound. He grunted into her, his face drenched in her juices, his tongue continuing to lap and probe her twitching twat even as she shuddered. He wanted to feel every single contraction, wanted to taste the very peak of her pleasure, refusing to stop until he had drained her completely. 

Smoke finally eased back. He stood at his full, imposing height, his chest heaving slightly, dark eyes clouded with lust. Annie turned and leaned against the vanity, her legs trembling, her breath coming in shallow, ragged hitches as she tried to gather the shattered pieces of her composure. She was drenched, her own juices and Smoke’s saliva slicking her thighs. 

Annie watched, mesmerized and breathless, as Smoke reached up and gripped the hem of his tank top, pulling it over his head in one fluid motion. The fabric clung to his sweat–slicked skin before falling to the floor, revealing the raw power of his torso—broad shoulders, a hard, carved chest, and abdominal muscles that rippled with every breath. Smoke shrugged off his pants and underwear with a disciplined efficiency, letting them drop.

Annie’s eyes widened, her throat going dry. There it was—his massive, thick dick, fully erect and pulsing with a heavy vein wrapped around the shaft. It was a formidable piece of meat, long and heavy, with a distinct aggressive right hook that curved slightly at the top, promising to hit every sensitive spot deep inside her. It stood proud and rigid, a dark, swollen pillar of desire that made her pussy react with a sudden, renewed emptiness. 

Smoke stepped forward, no words said. He reached out and gripped her hips, his large hands nearly meeting around her waist with a sudden, commanding strength. Smoke didn’t give her time to adjust. He hooked his arms under her plush thighs, muscles digging into the plush flesh, and hoisted her up, lifting her heavy ass off the vanity. 

Annie gasped, her legs instinctively wrapping around his waist, her ankles locking behind his back to keep herself anchored to him. Smoke slammed one of his palms down onto the vanity, gripping the edge of the wood so hard his knuckles bulged, anchoring them both. 

Then, he drove into her. 

Smoke didn’t ease in. He aligned that right-curving head with her opening and buried himself deep inside her in one brutal, thumping stroke. The impact was seismic. Annie’s head snapped back, a loud moan escaping her as her tight walls were stretched to their absolute limit by his girth. He buried himself to the hilt, his balls slapping hard against her against the cuff of her cheeks that spilled over the edge of the vanity. 

Smoke began to move, delivering relentless, thumping strokes that were more like beating down than lovemaking. Each thrust was deep and punishing, the curve of his dick hooking and grinding directly against her G-spot with every plunge. The force of his movements was so powerful that Annie’s plush body was damn near bouncing off of him, her heavy breasts swaying wildly, soft belly slapping against his hard abs with a wet sound. 

Thwack. Thwack. Thwack.

A raw, carnal percussion. 

Annie was rendered completely speechless, her mouth hanging open, her breath hitching in her throat. She couldn’t find the words. Couldn’t even scream. She could only cling to him, her fingers digging into the muscles of his back. 

Through it all, Smoke never looked away. He kept his gaze locked onto hers, his dark eyes boring deep into her soul. There was no softness in his expression, only a fierce, possessive intensity. He watched her face as he fucked her, watching her eyes glaze over and her lips tremble, savoring the way she broke under the weight of his masculinity. He was claiming her, marking her from the inside out, his silence more commanding than any word he could have spoken. 

He didn’t let up for a second.

His grip on her thighs tightened as he grounded his weight, folding Annie’s plush body even further. He pressed her back against the mirror of the vanity, her spine arching as he tucked her legs deeper over his muscular arms. Her feet dangled in the air, bouncing helplessly with every thumping drive of his hips. The impact was delivered with ferocity, the sound of his heavy balls slapping against her like a wet drum. 

Annie was lost in it, her head tossing from side to side, her voice breaking as she cried out his given name. 

“Elijah…ooh, Elijah!”  Annie wailed, the sound raw. She rarely called him that, but in the heat of this collision, she needed the man. Not the ghost. Not the enforcer. Her Elijah.

 As she looked up at him, her vision blurred with pleasure, she saw the evidence of his hunger. Her own thick, sweet cream was smeared across his dark mustache and glistening on his full lips, a messy trophy of how he had just spent the last thirty minutes eating her out. His pupils were blown wide, swallowing the iris, leaving only two dark, predatory voids that stared into her with an intensity that made her feel like she was being consumed. Inside her, his dick felt like a rod of heated iron, so stiff and thick that it stretched her walls to the breaking point. 

Mid-thrust, as Smoke drove himself deep, burning his length to the hilt, Annie’s hand shot out. Her fingers brushed the surface of the vanity, snagging the lace of her discarded bloomers. She gripped the fabric tight, pulling the scent-soaked garment toward him jus tax he lunged forward again. 

She pressed the damp cotton directly against Smoke’s nose and mouth, muffling his heavy breathing with the concentrated scent of her own arousal. 

Smoke froze for a split second, the sudden olfactory attack hitting him like a physical blow. The smell of her filled his lungs. It was the scent of his woman, his home, and his obsession. A low, growl ripped from his throat, vibrating against the fabric. 

The scent triggered something feral in him. His eyes darkened even further, and he stopped the thumping, instead grinding his hips in a slow, agonizing circle, twisting that curved head deep inside her at all angles. Smoke inhaled sharply through the fabric, sucking in the essence of her while he stared down, his nostrils flaring. 

“You tryna drive me crazy, Annie?” Smoke rasped, his voice a deep, shaky rasp.

“I ain’t gotta try…you already there, baby.” 

Smoke grunted, bit down on the bloomers, holding the fabric between his teeth, saliva dampening the fabric further and returned to the brutal pace. His strokes becoming even more forceful. He fucked Annie with a renewed, desperate hunger, his body slamming into her plush curves with a force that threatened to knock the vanity over, claiming every inch of her as he chased the edge of his own release. 

“Fuck me, daddy.” Annie moaned, gripping his sweaty biceps. 

Smoke’s pace didn’t slow. If anything, the scent of her on his breath and in his nose had pushed him into a state of pure, focused aggression. He was hammering into her, thick, right-curving dick grinding non-stop over her G-spot with a wet thud that shook the vanity. Annie’s breath was coming in jagged, shallow hitches, her fingers digging into his arms. 

“Get, it, daddy. Get it. Fuck ya’ wife’s pussy. This Smoke’s pussy—ahhh!” Annie gasped. “Tire ni, tire ni, tire ni baba.” 

She could feel it building. A tight electric coil winding up inside her belly, radiating down into her drenched pussy. Every time he bottomed out, her internal muscles clamped tight around him, miking him instinctively. Her voice began to tremble, the words shaking as the pleasure reached a fever pitch. 

“Elijah…I’m…I’m gonna…” Annie gasped, her voice wavering, thin and needy. “I’m ’bout to break, baby…I’m comin’…”

Thwack. Thwack. Thwack. 

Smoke let out a low hum of approval, the sound vibrating deep in his chest. He leaned in, his chest crushing her plush breasts, his lips grazing the shell of her. 

He let her draws fall from his mouth.

“Then break for me, baby,” Smoke rasped, his voice a dark, commanding rumble. “Give it all to me, let me feel every bit of it on my dick.” 

Thwack…thwack…thwack…thwackthwackthwackthwack—

“Sweet Jesus, please!” Annie wailed, her voice shaking violently. “Right there…just like that…oh, baby!” 

Smoke groaned. He repositioned his angle, driving his hips forward with a grinding force that pinned her further against the glass. 

Thwackthwackthwackthwack—

“You feel how that pussy hug on my dick?” Smoke grunted, his breath heavy against her neck. “You fuckin’ drenched, woman. Squeezin’ me like you never want me to jump out this pussy—” 

“I don’t!” Annie cried out, her voice cracking. “I want you…I want you deep…right on that spot!” 

“I’m right here,” Smoke growled, his pace becoming a blur of friction and deep-seeded desire. “I ain’t goin’ nowhere. Now cum for your man. Cum on this dick, Annie. Let it go.” 

The command was the final trigger. Annie’s body stiffened, her toes curling as a violent wave of orgasm crashed over her. Her pussy walls began to spasm, clamping down on his thick shaft in punishing pulses. Annnir let out a long, shaky moan, her voice trembling with the power of her explosive orgasm, her entire frame shuddering against him. 

Thwackthwackthwack…thwack. Thwack. THWACK—

Smoke let out a loud, triumphant roar, his own control snapping. He leaned back, grabbed two fistfuls of her heavy breasts, and drove himself in one last time, burning his length to the absolute hilt, his balls slapping hard against her as he began to unload. Smoke groaned, a deep, primal sound of surrender as he pumped thick, hot ropes of cum deep inside her, filling her to the brim while she continued to shake and sob beneath him, completely undone by his strength. 

It wasn’t just hot.

 it was a wet, clinging weight that soaked through cotton shirts in minutes, making clothes stick to skin like a second, suffocating layer. The Mississippi sun was hateful this particular early evening, beating down on the dusty crossroads outside of Clarksdale until the red earth cracked and the horizon shimmered with a dizzying mirage. The only sound that dared to break the oppressive silence was the relentless, screaming drone of cicadas, a noise that felt like it was drilling straight into the skull. Horse flies flew too close because of the donkeys that wandered. Mosquitos feasted happily on any inch of exposed skin it could find. 

Smoke stood by the rusted fender of a Ford Model A, his frame a hard, unyielding silhouette against the bleached-out landscape. He was dressed for business, despite the weather. He wore dark slacks held up by heavy leather suspenders, a wool coat draped over his broad shoulders that he refused to shed, and his cap pulled low, casting a deep shadow over his eyes. His face was a mask of neutral stone, but beneath the surface, he was vibrating. 

In the back of the truck, crates of corn liquor were piled high, hidden under coarse, grit-covered burlap. Gasoline and stale, sharp whiskey wafted up, mixing with the smell of hot dust and the metallic tang of the gun oil on his fingertips. The drivers from the north were jittery, their eyes darting toward the road every time a bird over, terrified of a federal raid or a knife in the back. 

Smoke’s jaw was clamped so tight it ached. He didn’t like the way this deal was dragging. He didn’t like the nervous sweat on the drivers’ brows of the way the wind carried the faint, distant sound of a dog barking. Or even how the few bushes across from them moved in a particular direction. Every second they sat exposed at the crossroads was a second too long. The law or the klan—no difference—the pressure was building in his chest, a primal, violent urge to just start shooting until the silence returned. 

Smoke needed to ground himself before he snapped and painted the red dirt with someone’s brains. 

Without a word to the men, Smoke stepped away from the truck, his leather ankle boots crunching on the dry earth. Smoke retreated into the shade of a sprawling cypress tree, its limbs draped in ghostly curtains of Spanish moss that swayed in a breeze that offered no coolness. The shade was dim and damp, smelling of rotting vegetation and ancient water. 

He reached into the inner pocket of his wool coat, his gloved fingers brushing against a piece of soft, white cotton. Smoke pulled it out. It was the bloomers Annie had worn the night he’d claimed her on the vanity, the fabric still holding the ghost of her shape.

 Smoke closed his eyes and pressed the cotton hard against his face, burying his nose in the fabric. He inhaled with a sharp, greedy lungful, hunting for her. 

There it was.

The concentrated, raw musk of her. The salty, pungent tang of her pussy. The deep earthy scent of the root herbs she worked with and the underlying sweetness that belonged only to his Annie. It was a scent of warmth, of plush skin and hidden depths. A stark contrast to the grit of the Delta. 

As he breathed her in, the tension in his shoulders dropped an inch, and the red haze in his vision cleared. Smoke clung to the fabric, his nostrils flaring, feeding on the essence of his wife to keep the monster in his blood at bay. The scent of Annie’s pussy was the only thing that kept him sane.

The spell was broken by the sharp, clack-clack-clack of polished oxfords hitting the hard-packed dirt. Smoke didn’t jump, he wasn’t the type to startle, but his hand snapped shut over the white cotton, shoving the bloomers back into his coat pocket in one fluid, violent motion. Smoke stepped out from the cypress shade, his face returning to that impenetrable slab of granite, just as a flash of cream-colored linen emerged from the heat haze.

Stack strolled toward them, looking like he’d just stepped off a street corner in Chicago rather than a dusty road in the Delta. He wore a tailored three-piece suit of pale cream that defied the grime of the crossroads, a silk tie the color of bruised plum knotted perfectly at his throat. A gold pocket watch chain looped across his vest, glinting aggressively under the harsh sun. He walked with a loose, swinging gait, a smirk playing on his full lips, his fedora tilted at a rakish angle that screamed confidence. 

“Lawd have mercy, Smoke,” Stack called out, his voice a smooth, honeyed drawl that vibrated with amusement. “You look like you fixin’ to bury a body or start another war. Why you standin’ in the shade lookin’ all moody? You gon’ let the heat rot ya’ brain.” 

Smoke just stared, his deep brown eyes tracking his brother’s every movement. The two of them stood there, identical mirrors of the same blood and bone but where Smoke was a closed fist, Stack was an open hand, ready to steal whatever wasn’t nailed down. 

Stack stopped a few feet away, smelling like expensive cologne and imported tobacco, clashing with the smell of corn liquor and horse manure in the background. Stack leaned back, hooking his thumbs into his trouser pockets, his gaze drifting from Smoke’s rigid posture to the sight.

A tell-tale bulge in the inner pocket of Smoke’s coat. 

Stack’s eyes sharpened. He knew that look. He knew the way Smoke’s nostrils flared when he was trying to hold onto something that didn’t belong to the world around them.

“You got a little secret tucked away in that coat, don’t you?” Stack teased, his voice dropping closer, invading Smoke’s personal space with a playful boldness. “Sum’ sweet. Sum’ that smell like home and magnolia. You lookin’ all stressed out, but I reckon you found a way to keep your temper from boilin’ over.” 

Smoke’s jaw tightened, a muscle leaping in his cheek. 

“Get ya’ head right, Stack. We got a shipment to move.” 

Stack laughed, a bright melodic sound that felt out of place in the oppressive silence of the crossroads. He reached out, his fingers grazing the lapel of Smoke’s coat, a daring, risky move that would have gotten any other man’s arm snapped. 

“I’m just sayin’, brother…you holdin’ onto that scent like a dyin’ man hold a prayer,” Stack whispered, his eyes dancing with a forbidden curiosity. “Make a man wonder just how sweet Annie’s been lately. Make me wonder if she still wearin’ them little lace things that make her hips look like a damn miracle.” 

Smoke’s hand twitched toward the grip of the pistol at his hip, his gaze darkening into something predatory. The brotherly bond was there, but beneath it lay a jagged edge of possession and rivalry. Stack didn’t flinch, he simply grinned wider, his eyes locked on Smoke’s, savoring the danger. He loved pushing Smoke. Loved seeing the disciplined enforcer struggle to keep the beast on a leash. 

“Move the crates, nigga.” Smoke commanded, his voice a low, guttural warning.

Stack winked, stepping back with a flourish of his linen jacket.

“Whatever you say, Big Brother. I’ll handle the drivers. They shakin’ like leaves in a storm and I’m just the man to charm ‘em into movin’ faster.” 

As Stack turned to lean the jittery men back to the Ford, he cast one last glance over his shoulder. He didn’t see the bloomers, but he could practically smell the musk of Annie clinging to Smoke’s clothes. A hunger ignited in Stack’s gut. Not just for women, but the thrill of taking something that belonged solely to the most dangerous man in the county. 

The shipment was handled with frantic energy that only comes from men who know the law—or worse the mob—is breathing down their necks. Stack spent the next hour orchestrating the chaos, his voice cutting through the humidity like a whip, directing the drivers and the muscle with a practiced, theatrical flair. He looked every bit the pretty gangster, leaning against the fender of a black Model A, flicking ash from a gold-tipped cigarette while his eyes never truly left his brother. 

Smoke was a ghost in the midday sauna, moving between the crates with a heavy, focused routine. He pointed, shoved, and stared. But Stack noticed the way Smoke’s hand stayed glued to the pocket of his coat, his fingers that were once gloved twitching against the fabric. It was a tell. Smoke was anchored to something, tethered to a scent and a memory that made him dangerous in a way that had nothing to do with the pistol on his hip. 

Once the last crate was loaded and the dust from the departing cars settled back into the red Mississippi clay, the stillness of the crossroads beat down on the twins. Stack watched Smoke wipe grime from his forehead with a handkerchief, the muscles in his broad shoulders bunching under his coat. 

He’s starving for her, Stack thought, a sudden, sharp hunger clawing at his own gut. 

It wasn’t just about the woman. It was the possession of her. 

Stack had always been the one to charm the gals in juke joints, rent parties, dance halls, and Chicago clubs alike. The one who could slide into a bed and out of it before the sun rose, leaving nothing but a scent of expensive cologne and a broken heart. 

But Annie…Annie was different. She wasn’t a gal; she was a force. He remembered the way she looked the last time he’d seen her, that midnight-brown skin glowing, her hips swaying under a heavy cotton skirt, the sheer, plush weight of her body promising a blaze no city girl could mimic. 

Stack pushed off the car, his polished oxfords crunching on the gravel. He walked toward Smoke, his gait loose and predatory. 

“You practically vibrating, Smoke,” Stack drawled, his voice a low, teasing vibration. “I can see it in your eyes. You ain’t thinkin’ ‘bout the money or the liquor. You thinkin’ ‘bout gettin’ home to that woman. Thinkin’ ‘bout how she feel when she pressed up against you. All soft…heavy skin…”

Smoke stopped dead, his gaze snapping to Stack. The look was murderous, a warning that the leash was fraying. 

“Shut ya’ fuckin’ mouth ‘bout my woman, Stack. I swear to’ god that’s my last time warnin’ ya’.” 

Stack didn’t shut it. He stepped closer, his voice dropping to a conspiratorial whisper, his eyes dancing. “I bet she smell like heaven and earth all at once. I bet she got that musk on her now that get in a man’s blood and stays there. I can smell it on ya’, brother. You drenched in her.” 

The admission sent a jolt of electricity through Stack’s spine. He imagined Annie in the house, perhaps stripped down to her shift in the midday heat, her large breasts straining against the fabric, thick thighs running together as she moved through the kitchen. He imagined the scent of her—that floral, herbal musk with the raw, salty tang of a woman’s sultriness. 

The thought made Stack’s own dick stir. A thick, heavy pressure building behind the fly of his cream-colored trousers. His dick, curving to the left, throbbed against the fabric, demanding release. He wanted to know if she tasted as rich as she looked. He wanted to know if her pussy was as plush and tight as the rest of her body suggested. 

“You outta line,” Smoke grunted, his voice a guttural warning. He stepped forward, his massive frame looming over Stack even though they were the same height. “You gon’ earn a spot next to our daddy if you keep talkin’ slick ‘bout Annie.” 

Stack just grinned, the expression sharp and hungry. He didn’t fear his brother, not technically, he thrived on the friction. He loved the idea that they shared everything. The same face, the same blood, the same hunger translated differently. If Smoke could have her, if Smoke could keep a piece of her tucked in his pocket to sniff like a gahdamn dog, then Stack wanted a taste. He wanted to steal a moment, a scent, a touch. He wanted to see the look on Smoke’s face when he realized that some things were too delicious to be kept by one man alone. 

“I’m just appreciatin’ the finer things, Smoke,” Stack whispered, his eyes flashing. “And Annie…she the finest thing in this whole damn state. Hell, this whole damn South. Ain’t no woman touchin’ Antoinette. Just givin’ my sis in law her praises, Big Brother. After all…I’m the least of ya’ worries. Heard some niggas in town talkin’ bout her.” 

Smoke grit his teeth. Jaw working.

“What they sayin’? Sum that’s gon’ get ‘em bumped off ain’t it?” 

Stack took a hit of his gold-tipped cigarette before passing it to Smoke. “Fed to the eagles.” 

Smoke clocked it. Filed it away. He walked off, his stride heavy and possessive. 

Stack followed a few paces behind, his mind racing, the seed of a dangerous desire now fully planted. He wasn’t just looking for a thrill anymore; he was hunting. He wanted those bloomers. He wanted the scent of her arousal. He wanted to slide his hand where Smoke’s had been, to feel the weight of her hips and the heat of her skin, and to do it all while the most dangerous man in Mississippi was just within earshot. 

The black Model A roared, kicking up a violent cloud of red dust that coated the roadside weeds in a fine, rust-colored powder. Stack sat behind the wheel, one hand draped casually over the top of the steering wheel, his gold rings glinting in the harsh Mississippi sun. He looked every bit of city slicker, his silk shirt open at the collar to let the breeze hit his chest. He glanced over at Smoke, who sat rigid in the passenger seat. Smoke was a statue of tension, his jaw locked, his eyes fixed on the road ahead as if he could force the car to move faster through sheer will. 

“I’m tellin’ you, Smoke, I gotta stop at that stand up ahead,” Stack drawled, his voice smooth as bourbon. “I got a hankerin’ for some tamales. Real ones. Those things they try to sell up in Chicago? Pure cardboard. Ain’t nothin’ like the taste of home to settle a man’s nerves.”

Smoke didn’t even turn his head. His voice came out as a low guttural rasp, stripped of any patience. “Annie’s got. Pot of greens and corn pone on the stove. You can eat at the house.” 

Stack let out a short, sharp laugh, a glint in his eyes. He shifted gears, the engine whining as he pushed the car harder. He could feel the heat radiating off his brother. The raw, pulsing desperation. Smoke wasn’t thinking ‘bout no food. He wasn’t even thinking ‘bout the successful drop-off or the stacks of cash tucked away. 

Stack watched the way Smoke’s thick fingers gripped the leather upholstery. He knew that look. He knew the way Smoke got when he’d been away from Annie for too long. Like a starving dog finally seeing the door to the kitchen. 

He ain’t thinkin’ ‘bout no corn pone, Stack thought, a smirk tugging at the corner of his lips. 

He could practically see it in his mind: Smoke bursting through the front door, not even stopping to take off his hat before he had Annie pinned against the wall. He knew Smoke had been sniffing those bloomers like a lifeline all day, but the cloth wasn’t enough anymore. He wanted the real thing. The dripping scent of pussy that only a man who owned her could truly savor. 

“You in a mighty big hurry, ain’t ya’?” Stack teased, his voice dropping an octave, becoming a provocative whisper. “I can practically smell the ginger on you, brother. You ain’t worried ‘bout my belly. You worried ‘bout gettin’ your face between them thick thighs ‘fore the sun go down.” 

Smoke’s head snapped toward him, dark eyes flashing with a warning that would have sent any other man running for cover. “Tired of putting your face in sour, street rat pussy, Stack? Ain’t my fault you so stuck on being up Notth while you missin’ out on some real pussy. Since when you had fresh cooch? That watered down, industrial muff got you sayin’ shit that’ll get you tore up. I don’t play ‘bout Annie.” 

Stack grinned, leaning back into the seat, feeling his own dick throb against the fabric of his trousers. “Why you think I’m back? I miss home, Smoke. Miss my southern gals with sweat on they backs and a hot pussy.” 

The though of Annie and those wide hips, heavy breasts…fuck. The way she always smelled like magnolia and raw woman. It was starting to coil in his gut like a snake. He didn’t want the tamales anymore. He wanted to see the look of possessive rage on Smoke’s face when he realized that Stack was thinking ‘bout the exact same thing.

“I’ll skip the stand,” Stack conceded, his voice humming with a dangerous kind of excitement. “I’m startin’ to get hungry for somethin’ a bit more…substantial.” 

The car crunched to a halt on a path, the engine giving one final, shuddering gasp before falling silent. The house didn’t just sit on the land, it seemed to emerge from it. It was tucked away behind a curtain of weeping willows and towering magnolias that shielded it from the prying eyes of the road. 

To get to the house, one had to pass by Annie’s shack—a small, weathered structure with the fragrance of dried sage, sulfur, and old earth. It was a place of business and mystery, where the locals came for root-work, protection charms, and cured for ailments the white doctors wouldn’t touch. The shack was cluttered with bundles of hanging herbs and jars of murky liquids, a stark contrast to the sanctuary that lay just beyond. 

Smoke’s home was a testament to his silent, disciplined nature. He hadn’t just built a shelter, he had carved a fortress of peace out of the Delta mud. It wasn’t a typical sharecroppers house with a sagging porch and a leaking roof—what they once lived in. This was a sturdy, wide-planked house made of deep-grained cypress and heart-pine, the wood polished. Smoke had built the porch deep and wide, with heavy railings that could support a man’s full weight, overlooking a lush garden of collards, peppers, and medicinal blooms that Annie tended with a spiritual precision.

The greenery swallowed the house in a protective embrace. Thick ivy climbed the walls, and the air felt different around him. It was cooler, dampened by the shade and the smell of damp earth and blooming jasmine. It was a place of absolute privacy, a hidden kingdom where Smoke could shed the skin of the killer and the enforcer and simply be a man. 

Stack stepped out of the car, his polished shoes hitting the dirt. He looked at the house and felt a sudden, sharp pang of envy that had nothing to do with the architecture. He thought about where he was staying. A cramped, miserable boarding house in town where the walls were as thin as parchment. In that place, he could hear every cough, every argument, and every creak from the room next door. 

His bed at the boarding house was a torture device. It was a rusted iron frame with a mattress that had long since surrendered its stuffing. Every night, Stack felt the cold, jagged press of the metal springs digging into his ribs and hips, leaving him restless and wired. He spent his nights tossing and turning in the humid dark, his mind racing, his body aching for a comfort he couldn’t buy. 

Looking at the solid, loving sanctuary Smoke had built for Annie, Stack felt the hunger in his gut intensify. It wasn’t just the house he wanted. It was the warmth inside it. He imagined the soft sheets. The smell of spices and vanilla and musk clinging to the curtains. The plush, heavy curves of Annie moving through the rooms. 

Smoke was already moving toward the door, his pace quickening, his broad shoulders tense with the need to be inside. He didn’t look back at his brother. He was a man returning to his altar, and Stack felt like a thief stepping into a temple, already planning how he might steal a piece of the holiness for himself. As they approached the porch, the scent of simmering greens wafted through the air. Stack felt his pulse hammer on his throat. 

Smoke pushed the heavy, cypress door open, the hinges making no noise because it’s well-oiled. The interior of the house smelled of the savory food Annie was preparing, beeswax, cedar, and the lingering, sweet scent of Annie’s skin. It was a clean, honest space, devoid of the cluttered chaos of the boating house. The furniture was all Smoke’s handiwork. Heavy oak tables and chairs with smooth, rounded edges, built to last a century. 

Stack stepped inside, his shoes clicking softly on the polished heart-pine floors. He reached up and plucked the fedora from his head, holding it by the brim as he let his gaze wander. Usually, Stack’s visits were brief. Business transactions and quick drinks before he headed back to the noise of the Windy City. But today, the tranquil silence pulled at him. He felt the weight of the boarding house sliding off his shoulders, replaced by a sudden, sharp curiosity. 

Stack noted the small details.

The hand-woven rugs from the coast. The jars of preserved peaches on the sideboard. The way the natural light filtered through the lace curtains. It was a home built on love and stability, things Stack traded in but rarely owned. 

As he drifted further into the house, his eyes were drawn toward the hallway. Their bedroom door was pushed ajar, leaving a gap that felt like an invitation. Stack paused, his brow quirking as he peered inside. 

Even from where he stood, he could smell a heavy scent of musk and spent passion. The large iron-frame bed dominated the space. The sheets were a chaotic, rumpled mess of white cotton and linen, twisted as if a storm had passed through them. The floorboards around the bed were marked with scuffs and scratches, evidence of frantic movement and heavy weight. 

But it was one thing that caught his attention. 

The headboard.

Tied firmly to the rusted iron bars were several strips of fabric.

Silk scarves. Sturdy cotton ribbons. All knotted tight. 

They weren’t decorative. They were functional. Worn slightly at the edges from strain. 

Stack stared at the scarves. A slow, knowing grin spread across his full lips, dimples popping out like tiny craters. 

He imagined Annie’s wrists bound tight against those bars, her wide hips arched and shaking shin Smoke hammered into her from behind. He could almost hear the wet slap of skin on skin and the way Annie’s voice would break into a shaky, desperate moan when she was pushed to her limit. 

Stack felt a sudden, hot throb in his trousers. His own thick dick stirred against the crotch of his tailored slacks. The thought of his brother using those ties to hold Annie still, to possess every inch of her lush body without resistance, sent a jolt of raw envy through him. 

He wondered if Annie liked the feeling of being trapped. Being completely overtaken by Smoke’s brutal protective hunger. 

“You just gon’ stand there gawked or you gon’ settle?” Smoke’s voice rasped behind him, low and warning. 

Stack quickly shifted his stance to hide the bulge in his pants. He turned back to his brother, the charm sliding back into place like a mask, though his eyes remained dark with the image of those scarves. 

“Just admirin’ the craftsmanship, Smoke.” Stack purred, his voice smooth like the silk of his tie. “You always did have a knack for buildin’ things that last.” 

Smoke let out a short, dry huff of a laugh, his eyes narrowing as he looked at his brother. “Ain’t my fault you stayin’ at that shit hole,” he rasped, his voice like gravel grinding together. “You got more coin than sense, Stack. You can afford to stay somewhere decent, like that fancy-ass apartment you keep up in Bronzeville.”

Stack just shrugged, a playful, knowing glint in his eyes as he leaned against the doorframe. He knew the game of visibility. “That’s exactly why I don’t, Smoke. In a boarding house, I’m just another traveler passing through. I blend in. Safer to be a ghost when you haulin’ the kind of heat I do. Too many eyes.” 

Smoke grunted, not entirely convinced but knowing Stack’s paranoia was usually rooted in profit. He stepped further into the space. 

“You don’t gotta play ghost in your own blood’s house. You can always sleep in the guest room when you come visit. Save yourself the fleas.” 

Stack let out a smooth, melodic chuckle, shaking his head. 

He looked back toward the bedroom door—and those tied scarves—with a flicker of desire crossing his face.

“I appreciate it, truly. But I don’t want to be a bother. Besides,” Stack added, his voice dropping into a suggestive purr, “I fuck too much to be in here violating ya’ home. I’d have some poor girl screamin’ your roof off by midnight, and I know how ya’ get ‘bout ya’ peace and quiet.”

Smoke reached up and peeled off his coat, tossing it over a chair, followed by his cap, which he set firmly on the sideboard. Stack followed suit, sliding his tailored jacket off his shoulders with a fluid motion, reveling the crisp lines of his shirt and the gold chain glinting against his chest. 

“Where Annie?” Stack asked, his voice softening, though the hunger in his gaze remained. 

“Finishin’ up at the shack,” Smoke answered. “Got a few folks comin’ for cleansing and roots ‘for me sundown.”

As they moved toward the kitchen, the rich, savory scent of home hit them full force. On top of the black iron wood-burning stove, a heavy cast iron pot sat simmering, the lid rattling slightly as steam escaped. The smell of slow-cooked collards, smoked turkey, and seasoned cornmeal filled the air. It was the smell of Annie.

“I’m gonna go check the ice box.” Smoke grunted, his voice low and final. He didn’t look back as he stepped out the back door, the screen door slapping shut with a sharp crack. 

 The moment the door closed, Stack didn’t waste a second. He reached over to the stove, snatching a piece of warm, buttery corn pone from the platter, and slid into a wooden chair. He leaned back, one leg crossed over the other. He was chewing slowly, tasting the salt and corn, but his mind was still vibrating from the sight of the bedroom. After he finished, tongue skimming his teeth, flipping a silver coin with a clink-snap against his palm. 

Then, the front door groaned open. 

Stack stopped mid-flip. The coin landed on the table with a dull thud, forgotten. 

Annie walked in, and for a heartbeat, Stack forgot how to breathe. 

It had been months since he’d seen her, and the woman had only grown more lush, more devastating. She was dressed for the end of a workday at the shack, wearing a deep indigo cotton dress that clung to every magnificent curve of her frame. The fabric was stretched tight across her heavy, rounded breasts, the buttons straining slightly against the swell of her chest. As she moved, the skirt hugged the massive, sweeping flare of her hips and the plushness of her thighs, swaying with a weight that made Stack’s mouth go dry. 

She had an ivory-colored lace shawl draped loosely over her shoulders, and her hair was wrapped in a vibrant orange head tie. That made her deep brown skin glow. She looked like a goddess of the earth, smelling of dried sage, sweet vanilla, and that raw feminine musk that always seemed to radiate off her skin. 

Stack’s gaze didn’t just linger on Annie. 

It devoured. 

He watched the way her backside moved under the indigo fabric. The heavy jiggle of her rear with every step she took toward the kitchen. He could almost imagine the feel of those wide hips under his palms. The way her soft, ample flesh would spill over his fingers if he dared to grab her. He felt his dick stir and thicken in his trousers, a sudden hard ache pulsing in his groin as he imagined her stripped bare, plush body shaking under him. 

Annie stopped dead in her tracks the moment she spotted him.

Her expression changed from exhaustion to a cold, sharp irritation. Annie didn’t hide her distaste; her eyes narrowed, her lips pressing into a thin line. She knew exactly how Stack looked at her. Like a starving man looking at a feast. 

Bastard. 

“Elias,” she said, her voice a rich, smooth contralto that vibrated right through Stack’s chest. “I didn’t know Smoke had let the circus back into the house.” 

Stack’s eyes slid down from her face to the deep valley of her cleavage and then back up. He gave her a slow, lazy grin. That smile usually worked on every woman from Clarksdale to Chicago, but he knew Annie was different. He knew she carried a blade in her bodice and a spirit that couldn’t be bought or charmed. 

He wanted her. Goddamn if he didn’t. But he wasn’t stupid enough to push her to the point where she’d carve a piece out of him. 

“Now, Annie,” Stack purred, his voice dripping with a forced sweetness. “No need to be so cold. I just came to visit my dear brother and sis in law.” 

Annie ignored the flirtation. She stepped further into the kitchen to set her bag of herbs on the table. As she leaned over, the fabric of her dress pulled taut across her backside, outlining the deep, rounded cleft of her ass. 

Stack’s eyes locked onto it, pupils dilating. He was practically eye-fucking her, his gaze tracing the curve of her waist down to the heavy swell of her hips. He could almost smell the torridity coming off her, the scent of a woman who spent her days working with the earth and her nights being thoroughly claimed by a man like Smoke Moore. 

She straightened up, catching him staring. 

She just looked at him with a mixture of pity and disgust. 

“How you been, Elias?” Annie asked, though the question sounded more like a formality than actual interest. “Still runnin’ scams and dodging the law in the North?”

Stack let out a low, humming chuckle, his eyes never leaving the heavy swing of her hips as she moved. He leaned back in the chair, the silver coin dancing across his knuckles again, though his focus was entirely on the way that indigo fabric strained against her plush thighs. 

 “I been aight, Annie. Just a bit lonely for some of that Southern hospitality,” Stack purred, his voice sliding over her like silk.

Annie didn’t give him the satisfaction of a blush. She just gave him a look of pure, unadulterated disdain, her nostrils flaring. She knew he was tracing every curve of her wide hips and the deep swell of her breasts, and she treated his gaze like a smudge of dirt on the floor. 

“You still got a mouth that runs faster than your brain, Elias,” she snapped, turning her back to him to reach for a pot on the stove. 

The movement was a gift.

As she reached upward, the hem of her dress lifted just enough to reveal the tops of her thick, deep brown thighs and the tantalizing curve of her rear. 

Stack’s dick throbbed violently against his trousers. 

He was practically salivating, his gaze locked onto the jiggle of her backside. 

Then, the screen door creaked. 

Smoke stepped back into the kitchen, his presence instantly swallowing the room. The second his dark eyes landed on Annie, the hard, neutral mask he wore for the world shattered. 

He didn’t say a word. 

Smoke walked straight up to her, ankle boots thudding on the pine floor, and wrapped his massive arms around her from behind. 

Stack watched, a mixture of envy and heat flooding his gut as Smoke claimed her. Smoke’s large, calloused hands didn’t falter. They slid down from her waist and clamped firmly onto her plush ass, squeezing the heavy flesh with. Possessive, bruising grip. He pulled her back hard against his groin, letting her feel the thick, curved length of his dick pressing into the small of her back. 

Smoke buried his face in the crook of her neck, inhaling deeply, his mustache brushing against her glowing skin. He looked like he was claiming his prey, biz eyes closing as he breathed in her scent of vanilla and musk. He began to whisper something low and guttural in her ear—something private and filthy—that made Annie’s shoulders drop and a small, knowing smile tugged at her lips. 

Annie glanced sideways at Smoke’s coat, her eyes flickering with a secret understanding.

The realization that Smoke was carrying her scent around like. Drug while currently squeezing her real-life ass made Stack’s head spin.

“Lord have mercy,” Stack interrupted, his voice loud and jarring, breaking the spell. He stood up, tossing the coin one last time and catching it with a sharp snap. “Ya’ll gon’ get to the fuckin’ or can I find out when I get to eat? ‘Cause I’m starvin’ over here, and the smell of that corn pone is startin’ to make me crazy.” 

Annie rolled her eyes. She leaned back into Smoke’s chest for one last second before pulling away. She shot Stack. Look that promised a blade to the ribs if he kept talking, but the irritation was tempered by the lingering heat Smoke had just sparked in her. 

Annie turned back to the stove, the heavy cast iron skillet sizzling with corn pone and fried catfish. She moved with grace. She slid the golden-brown cakes onto a platter, the scent of grease and salt filling the kitchen. 

Stack leaned against the counter, a glass of liquor in his hand that he’d fetched from the Model A, sipping slowly. His eyes were locked on Annie, tracing the deep dip of her waist and the way her breasts strained against her blouse as she leaned over to scoop collards. He took a swallow of the whiskey, the burn in his throat matching the heat pooling in his groin as he watched her. 

Smoke, meanwhile, hadn’t moved far from her side. He stood silent and strong, dark eyes locked onto his wife. He wasn’t just looking, he was devouring her. His eyes traveled from the curve of her calves up to the heavy swell of her rear, his jaw tight. He looked like a man who wanted to throw the food on the floor and bend her over the table right then and there.

“Here,” Annie spoke with a hushed tone, setting the heavy ceramic plates down on the pine table. 

She stepped behind Smoke, her soft, warm palms landing on his broad shoulders. She began to knead the hard knots of muscle there, her fingers digging into the tension he always carried. Smoke let out a low, grunt, his head tilting back slightly as he surrendered to her touch. 

As the men began to eat, the contrast was stark. Stack ate like a city man—precise, talking between bites, his movements theatrical and light. Smoke ate like a starving animal. He tore into the catfish and corn pone with a primal intensity, his movements efficient and heavy, focused entirely on the fuel and the woman rubbing his shoulders. 

Annie watched them, her intuitive gaze flickering between the two identical faces. She could feel the static in the room, the way Stack’s energy was a jagged line of desire and mischief, while Smoke’d was a heavy, possessive weight. 

“So, Elias,” Annie said, her voice smooth but cautious. “How long you plannin’ on stayin’ in town this time?” 

Smoke didn’t stop chewing, but he answered for his brother, his voice so deep that it vibrated through Annie’s palms. 

“He stayin’ at that boarding house in town. The one with the thin walls and the bedbugs.” Smoke repositioned his hips, his shoulder brushing against Annie’s chest. “I told him he could take the guest room here. Told him he ain’t need to be payin’ a stranger for a drafty room.” 

Annie’s hands paused for a fraction of a second. She didn’t say a word, but her silence was word enough. The thought of Stack sleeping under her roof brought a familiar tightness to her chest. It wasn’t that she feared him, but she knew the wake of trouble he left behind. Stack was a whirlwind of bad decisions and risky gambles, and whenever he rolled into town, he spent half his time trying to convince Smoke to dive headfirst into some new, dangerous venture. She didn’t want that energy in her sanctuary; she didn’t want the instability he brought leaking into the peace she and Smoke built. 

But she felt the way Smoke leaned into her. She knew how much the silent man missed his twin, how the bond between them was a tether that Smoke refused to cut, no matter how many times Stack played the fool. 

Annie sighed, her fingers resuming their massage. She looked over at Stack, who was watching her with a smug, knowing grin, looking every bit the charming rogue who knew exactly how to push her buttons. 

“Now, Elias,” Annie said, her voice softening into a forced sweetness, “don’t be stubborn. You know that boarding house is a pit. Why don’t you just stay here wit’ us? I’ll make sure you got a hot, cooked meal every night you in town.” 

Stack’s grin widened, his eyes flashing. He didn’t look at the food on his plate. He looked straight at Annie. His gaze slid down to her chest and back up with an appreciative, playful hunger.

“Well now.” Stack purred, his voice dripping with honey. “If the lady’s promisin’ to feed me…I’d be a fool to say no. 

The dinner plates were cleared, the remnants of the meal still steaming on the wood-burning stove. As soon as the screen door clicked shut behind Stack, leaving him to retrieve his bags from the boarding house, the playful jagged energy Stack brought with him evaporated, replaced by the heavy, grounding inferno that only existed between Smoke and Annie. 

Smoke didn’t waste a second. He reached out, his large calloused hand wrapping around Annie’s waist, and with one firm tug, he pulled her plush body down onto his lap. Annie let out a soft oomph, her heavy hips settling securely against his muscular thighs. She rested her arms on his broad shoulders, her espresso-brown skin glowing against the fabric of his shirt. 

“Thank you for lettin’ him stay, baby,” Smoke whispered, his voice low and gravelly. He pressed his face into the crook of her neck, inhaling deeply. “I know he a handful. Promise you, it won’t be long. Just ‘til he gets his head right.”

Annie exhaled, a long sigh that made her large breasts brush against his chest. She ran her hands over his slicked hair, settling them at the nape of his neck where she drew lazy circles with her thumbs. 

“I know he your blood, Smoke. I ain’t blind to that. But tell your brother he better be on his best behavior while he under my roof. I got a root that’ll put him in line and make him as quiet as a church mouse if he start stirrin’ up trouble for you.” 

Smoke let out a rare, huffing sound—almost a laugh—and tilted his head up. His deep brown eyes were dark, hooded with a hunger that had nothing to do with the meal they’d just finished. He leaned in, capturing her lips in a kiss that started tender but quickly turned possessive, his tongue sliding against hers with a primal urgency. 

As they broke for air, Smoke kept his lips brushed against her ear, his breath causing her to shiver as it ticked her ear. His voice dropped to a filthy, desperate whisper that sent a jolt of electricity straight to Annie’s core.

“I can’t stand it, Annie,” Smoke groaned, his hand sliding down from her waist to squeeze the lush curve of her ass. “Those draws I been keepin’ in my coat…the scent done gone dry. I spent all day sniffin’ ‘em just to keep my mind on you, but they don’t smell like you no more. They ain’t fresh.” 

Annie’s breath hitched. The sheer hunger in his tone, the way the most feared man in the county sounded like a starving dog begging for a scrap, made her pussy quiver violently. She could feel the sudden rush of arousal between her thighs, her own juices beginning to soak into the cotton of her underwear.

“You a damn animal,” she whispered, though she arched her back, pressing her softness deeper into his lap.

“I am for you,” Snoke growled, his hand migrating forward, fingers hooking beneath her skirt and slithering up to cup her fat pussy in the palm of his hand. It was hot to the touch and moist. “I need a fresh pair. I need ‘em soaked in you, Annie. I need to smell that sweet pussy fresh off ya’ skin ‘gore I lose my goddamn mind.” 

Annie slid side-saddle across Smoke’s thighs. The movement caused her heavy breasts to sway and her wide, plush hips to grind against him. She reached down, her fingers hooking into the lace edge of her bloomers, and slowly peeled them down. She didn’t stand up. She just slid the fabric down her thick thighs and off her feet. Her swollen, dark pussy was now within reach just beneath her indigo skirt.

Smoke didn’t waste another second. He snatched the fabric from her hand with a desperation bordered on feral. He pressed the damp cotton deep into his nostrils, inhaling sharply, his eyes closing as he drank in the concentrated scent of her. 

Annie let out a low, throaty moan, her hand sliding down to find the massive bulge in his pants. Smoke was rock hard, dick as thick as a forearm and straining against the fabric. She gripped him, squeezing the heavy length of him, feeling the pulse of his heartbeat through his pants. She leaned in, her lips brushing against the shell of his ear, her voice dropping to a filthy, honeyed whisper. 

“I got ‘em extra drenched just for you, Smoke…I been in that shack all day, just sittin’ wit’ my legs open…thinkin’ ‘bout how you fucked me the other night. Thinkin’ ‘bout how you stretched me out ‘til I couldn’t walk straight. Left me sore and achin’ in all the right places.” 

Smoke let out a low growl, his grip tightening on the bloomers, bunching the fabric in his fist as he breathed her in. The image of her alone in her shack, leaking for him, sent a surge of desire through his veins. 

“You like that, baby?” Annie breathed, her fingers kneading his thick dick “can you smell it? Can you smell how much I gushed for you?” 

Smoke didn’t respond with words. He gripped Annie’s thick, brown thighs and hoisted them up, sliding them over his broad shoulders. He dropped to his hands and knees on the floor, positioning himself perfectly between her legs. Annie leaned back in the chair, her breath hitching as she felt the sudden, cool air hit her soaking wet slit, followed immediately by the searing heat of Smoke’s mouth. He dove in with a primal hunger. Smoke didn’t tease; he dove straight in, his long, thick tongue lashing out to swipe across her soaking wet slit. 

Smoke groaned into her meaty pussy, the taste of her hitting him like a drug. He tongued her deeply, tasting the thick, creamy mess she’d been brewing all day, his tongue swirling around her clit before sliding deep between her folds—flat against her labia and curling right at her opening—to lap up every drip of her arousal. He was eating her with a starving intensity, breath heavy against her sensitive flesh, confirming exactly how much she had been longing for him.

 He was devouring her. 

His tongue, thick and powerful, lashed against her clit with a punishing force that made Annie’s entire body shudder. Smoke sucked her clit deep into his mouth, creating a suction that sent electric shocks straight to her core. The sound was wet and obscene. Loud, slapping noises of his tongue meeting her drenched flesh and the guttural groans he made as he tasted the concentrated musk she’d been brewing all day. 

Driven by a need to see the devastation he was causing, Annie reached down and hiked the hem of her skirt up past her waist, bunching the fabric in her fists. She looked down, her eyes widening at the sight of her husband’s head buried between her legs, his jaw working tirelessly as he licked her clean, only for her to gush more juice the moment he touched her. 

The pleasure was becoming too much to contain. 

With shaky fingers, Annie began to undo the buttons of her blouse. She popped them one by one, her chest heaving with every ragged breath. As the fabric parted, she relaxed her breasts from the constraint of her bra, letting them spill out with a heavy, satisfying bounce. 

Lush, and heavy, with a deep rich brown hue that shimmered under the natural light filtering in. They were full and pendulous, swaying slightly as she breathed, the weight of them pulling downward in a way that emphasized her womanly curves. The skin was smooth as fine silk, stretching over the ample volume of her chest. At the center of each breast sat a wide, dark areola, the color of bitter chocolate, circling nipples that were hard and peaking, straining for touch. They were thick and prominent, resting to the intensity of the oral pounding she was receiving below.

Smoke looked up for a split second, his face glistening with her juices, eyes dark as he stared at her swinging breasts. He let out a low, growl, then dove back in, his tongue swirling deep inside her pussy, tasting the creaminess of her while Annie arched her back, heavy breasts bouncing with every thrust of his tongue. 

Her voice broke into a series of high, desperate moans. 

Smoke didn’t pull away. He started talking against her drenched folds, his voice vibrating through her thighs. He sounded possessed, his words muffled by the plush folds of her pussy as he continued to lap at her with a relentless, starving need.

“Goddamn, Annie…I can’t get enough of this pussy,” he groaned, the words wet and thick. 

Smoke pulled back just an inch, his lips glistening with her cream. His dark eyes looked up at her with so much adoration. 

“I spent all day thinkin’ ‘bout it, baby. Every minute I’m out there, I just ache to get my face back in this sweet, soaking wet pussy.” 

Smoke dove back in, tongue delivering a long, sweeping stroke from her bottom to the top, slurping loudly as he sucked her clit so deep she could feel the length of his tongue swipe her button as he sealed his lips. The sound was nasty. A wet, schlick-slurp that filled the kitchen. 

“I need it, baby,” Smoke rumbled, his voice breaking into a growl against her flesh. “I need this pussy to ground me. I need to taste you, smell you…fuck, you taste like heaven and sin all at once, woman. I could eat yiu for a lifetime and still be starvin’ for more.” 

Annie let out a jagged. High-pitched moan, her head snapping back against the chair. The sensation of his tongue lashing her clit while he whispered filth into her folds was driving her to the edge. Her hands flew to her heavy breasts, her fingers digging into the lush flesh. She gripped her own tits, squeezing, the weight of them spilling between her fingers as she kneaded them. 

She watched him from above, her eyes hazy with lust, seeing the way his shoulders bunched and flexed as he worked. She began to roll her hard, chocolate-colored nipples between her fingers, pulling on them in sync with the suction of his mouth. 

“Elijah…oh, Lord, Elijah,” Annie whimpered, her voice shaking. She arched her back, pushing her wide, plush mound harder against his face, demanding every bit of his tongue.

Smoke responded by intensifying the assault. He began to sick her pussy with a cyclone-like force, his cheeks hollowing as he slurped her juices up, making loud, messy sounds. He was tearing her fat, fuckin’ pussy up, his tongue swirling and poking deep inside her, tasting the thick, honeyed musk of her arousal. 

“My beautiful, thick-hipped woman,” Smoke mumbled with a shaky voice that vibrated against her clit. “This pussy the only thing keepin’ me sane. I love how you gush fa’ me, baby. I love how you taste. Give it all to me, Annie. Just leak all over my damn face.” 

Annie’s moans turned into shaky cries. She squeezed her breasts tighter, nipples peaking and straining as she felt the orgasm building, thick thighs trembling on his shoulders while he continued to eat her like she was the only meal he’d ever known. Like the corn pone, catfish, and collards ain’t settle his hunger. 

Smoke’s voice had gone from a rumble to a command, a raw, demanding groan. He didn’t just want her pleasure; he wanted her surrender. He gripped her thick, plentiful thighs, fingers digging into the meat of her legs to hold her wide open, pinning her firmly against his face. 

“Cum on my tongue, Annie—cum fa’ me, baby, gimme it girl I’m workin’ hard for it where my gushy mess at, baby, give it to daddy.” Smoke barked, the words muffled by her soaking wet folds. “Cum right now. I wanna feel you shake. Paint my tongue wit’ that sweet cream.” 

Smoke repositioned his attack, his tongue becoming a weapon of precision. He started to flick her clit with a rapid, punishing speed then his lips created a tight seal around her, sucking her into his saliva-filled mouth. He would go back and forth between quick flicks of his tongue and tight sucks. Wet, slurp–pop, sounds. The sound of a man trying to drain every single drop of cum from her body. 

“Paint it, baby—fuck—give it to me.” Smoke commanded, voice deep and demanding and filled with so much hunger. “I wanna taste every bit of it. Pour it all over my fuckin’ tongue, baby, now—”

Annie was beyond words. Her head was thrashed back, her eyes crossed, and her fingers were practically bruising her own heavy breasts. Her thick, thunderous thighs clamped down on Smoke’s head tight. The command in his voice acted like a trigger, snapping the eruption that had been building in her core. 

“ELIJAH. Oh…my…God—bẹẹni, kan lara ki o dara, bẹẹni—ELIJAH!” Annie screamed, her voice cracking. 

Her orgasm hit her like a tidal wave, a violent, racking explosion that started in her womb and radiated outward. Her pussy clamped down hard in his mouth, pulsing in powerful spasms that squeezed her juices out in thick, hot bursts. She felt herself gushing, milky–white flooding his tongue, painting his lips and chin in a glistening honeyed trail similar to coconut milk. 

Smoke didn’t pull away from the trap of her thighs. He leaned into it, lapping at her orgasmic floods, sucking and slurping the pulses of her climax as if he were trying to drink her soul. He groaned deep in his throat, a sound of pure, animalistic satisfaction, as he felt her body shudder and quake on his shoulders. 

“That’s it…yeah, paint it…give it all to me,” Smoke mumbled against her skin, his voice thick with lust. 

Annie’s muscles twitched because her thighs trembled violently. The aftershocks of the orgasm continued to ripple through her. She collapsed back into the chair, her chest heaving, breasts bouncing with every ragged breath and shaky exhale. She looked down at him—her husband, her rock—his face drenched in her musk, eyes dark and looking up at her with a look that told her he was far from finished. 

Smoke rose up from between her spread thighs, knees planted firm on the kitchen floor as he stayed right there between them. His big hands came up and cupped the heavy weight of her breasts, palms sliding underneath to lift and cradle them. Both hands wrapped around the plush fullness, fingers sinking into the squishy give as he pushed them together and angled the wide dark areolas straight toward his mouth. 

Annie watched from above, breath catching as his lips brushed the first areola. Smoke kissed slow and open–mouthed, pressing warm, wet kisses all across the dark circle before moving to the thick nipple itself. His tongue flicked out, tasting the pebbles skin, then he sealed his lips around it and began to suck. 

The pull was steady and deep. He sucked in a rhythm that matched the throb still pulsing between her legs, tongue pressing up against the underside while his lips worked in a tight seal. Every few pulls he released with a wet pop, only to switch to the other breast, giving it the same treatment. Back and forth he went, sucking one nipple hard until it stood shiny and stiff, then moving to the other, leaving a trail of spit connecting them. 

Annie moaned low in her throat. The suction sent sharp sparks straight down to her clit, each strong pull making her pussy clench around nothing. She felt the wet, heat of his mouth and the firm drag of his tongue circling and flicking while he suckled. The pressure was building until it bordered on too much before easing off just enough to start again, sending goosebumps over her skin and a tickle down her spine. Her heavy breasts bounced slightly with every switch, the air cool from his spit hitting her wet nipples before his hot mouth claimed them once more. 

“Elijah…” Annie breathed, one hand sliding over his slicked hair as he kept going, sucking and releasing…sucking and releasing, big hands keeping her tits aimed exactly where he wanted them. “te siwaju, mase duro, Elijah…”

She was telling him to keep going. 

He swirled his tongue around the thick stiff tip of her nipples, teasing the nerve endings until she gasped, then he’d plunge it back in, drawing the flesh tight. 

He was keeping her right on the edge. 

“Fuckin’ love these big ol’ breasts, baby—”

“I love the way you make love to my breasts wit’ that mouth—”

“Yeah?” 

“beeni, yes…”

“I eat up every inch of you, baby, you know that—”

“I do, yes—Daddy—yes, I do—”

Smoke used his teeth lightly, grazing the fleshy, ample sides of her pendulous breasts, creating a sharp contrast to the wet, sliding, heat of his tongue. Smoke was working her breasts like they were the only thing keeping him alive, big hands squeezing the plush undersides, pushing the heavy mounds upward to give his mouth better access. 

Annie was completely undone. The words she tried to form died in her throat, replaced by broken, airy whimpers and trembling moans. She couldn’t find the breath to tell him how much she loved it, or to beg him not to stop. Her mind had gone blank, reduced to nothing but the sensation of his mouth. Every time he switched breasts, the sudden rush of cool air on the wet, swollen nipple made her shiver, only for the heat to return a second later as he claimed the other side. 

The suction was so intense it felt like he was pulling the very spoil out of her through her chest. The sensation radiated downward, triggering a heavy, pulsing and in her drenched pussy. Annie felt the wetness leaking from her, dripping down her thighs, while her breasts felt heavy and engorged, tingling with a fierce, electric blaze. 

Smoke looked up for a solid second, pupils dilated and eyelids low like he was drunk off her body. His lips were covered in a mixture of spit and her pussy juices. He saw her dazed expression, her head lolling back, her chest heaving. He let out a grunt and a hum and dove back in, sucking her nipples with an even more aggressive hunger.

Smoke was determined to keep her in this state of mindless, shivering bliss and keep her pussy wet so he can get in it with one stroke and make her cream even more. 

Smoke sensed her peaking, his instincts sharpening. He latched onto her left nipple with a fierce grip, pulling the dark, swollen bud into his mouth. The sensation came in slow draws, each one lingering longer than the last. While he worked that breast, his fingers reached up to grip the right breast, his thumb and forefinger catching the other stiff nipple and twirling it, rolling the sensitive bud between his fingers.

The dual sensation—the deep, wet heat of Smoke’s mouth on one side and the firm, twisting friction on the other—was too much. Annie let out a broken, high-pitched keen, her hips bucking instinctively against the air. She was completely undone, her mind a gaze of deep-brown skin and the overwhelming presence of her husband.

“Smoke…oh god, Smoke,” she whimpered, her voice shaking and thick with lust. Annie reached down, her fingers brushing against the hard, heavy ridge of his dick pressing against his pants. The feel of him—thick, long, and pulsing with a need that mirrored her own—sent a fresh wave of wetness crashing through her. 

Annie couldn’t take the anticipation anymore. The need to taste him, to feel that massive length in her mouth, becaus an obsession. She began to plead, her voice dropping a guttural rasp. 

“Smoke…please, baby…please let me,” Annie begged, her breath coming in short, jagged gasps. “I need it. I need to suck you…let me taste you, Smoke. Please, let me suck ya’ dick.” Her eyes were pleading and glazed. “I’m beggin’, Daddy…let me get on my knees. Let me take it.” 

Smoke let out a grunt. He stepped back, pulling away from her plush breasts, leaving her nipples swollen, dark, and glistening with saliva. He stood tall, his imposing frame casting a wide shadow over her, but the bright Mississippi sun that early, summer evening streamed through the kitchen windows, bathing his brown skin with rich, gold undertones in a warm light. 

Smoke reached down and gripped the hem of his shirt. He lowered his suspenders from his shoulders. He started unbuttoned his shirt, eyes never leaving Annie’s face. 

“It’s okay, baby…daddy gon’ give you this dick, aight? You ain’t gotta beg me, baby. This dick belong to you. You take this dick, hear?” 

The light hit the hard planes of his abdomen, highlighting the ripple of his muscles and the deep, rich tone of his brown skin.

Annie, still breathless and trembling in the chair, watched with wide, glazed eyes as he stood before her. Her heart hammered against her ribs, pussy throbbing with a wet, heavy pressure that made her feel like she was melting into the wood of the seat. She reached out with shaking hands, her fingers fumbling with the buttons on his pants. She could feel the heat radiating off him. Primal. Masculine. Smelling of tobacco, musk, and raw desire. 

Her fingers popped open the button and she slid the zipper down with a slow, agonizing rasp. As she reached inside to hook her fingers into the waistband of his underwear, pulling the fabric down and away, his dick sprang free with a heavy thud against his lower belly. 

Annie froze. Her breath hitched in her throat.

The natural light from the window hit him perfectly.

It reflected off the smooth, taut skin of his shaft. 

His dick was a masterpiece of masculine power. 

Thick. Long. Pulsing with a life of its own. 

The skin was a deep, dark brown, stretched tight over the engorged veins that coiled around the length like vines of temptation. The head was a swollen, blunt crown, glistening with a so much pre-cum it left behind a long, slimy string that was still connected to his underwear. It sparkled like a dining against the dark velvet of his flesh. 

Annie stared. Mesmerized by the way it curved slightly to the right. A heavy, authoritative arc that promised to fill every fucking inch of her. The sheer size of it made her mouth water; just looking at the thickness of the base…where it joined his muscular thighs…made her imagine the feeling of it stretching her wide, splitting her open and hitting the very back of her womb.

A wave of pure, unadulterated lust crashed over her. 

The size of his pleasure stick…

Standing proud and rigid in the golden light made her feel small and greedy. She felt a primal urge to serve him. To wrap her lips around that massive head and feel the pulse of his heartbeat in her throat. Her pussy gave a violent, needy squeeze, leaking a fresh torrent of slickness down her thighs as she gazed up at the man who owned her soul and body. 

Annie had memorized every vein. Every ripple of muscle. The way the sunlight danced on the wet tip of his dick, knowing that in a few moments she would be tasting every bit of it. Her voice was a fragile, trembling thing, barely a whisper as she looked up at him from her knees. Her eyes were glossy, wide with a mixture of awe and hunger. 

“I ain’t never seen nothin’ so beautiful in my whole life,” Annie whispered, her voice shaking with the intensity of her arousal. 

Her fingers wrapped around the thick base. As her fingers circled, the tips barely closed around the girth, her palm pressing against him. As she began to stroke him, her movements were slow and delirious, her gaze locked onto the way his dark skin slid over the engorged veins. Annie looked up at him with a look of pure, submissive devotion, her expression screaming that she couldn’t believe he possessed such a massive, powerful piece of meat. 

Smoke let out a sharp, jagged breath, his head snapping back, adam’s apple bobbing, a wave of pleasure crashing through him. He was ruined. The contrast of her soft, supple hand gripping his rigid dick was almost too much to bear. He looked down at her—his lush, opulent wife, her heavy breasts swaying and her face filled with worship—and felt a surge of primal dominance. 

Annie leaned in, her breath hot against his skin.

 She started with a long, wet lick from the base all the way up to the crown. She moaned deep in her throat, a sound of pure satisfaction as she tasted him. 

“My big, strong man,” Annie whispered against his flesh, her voice thick with lust. “Got such a big dick…such a beautiful, big dick.” 

She licked him again, more insistently this time, swirling her tongue around the swollen head and catching the bead of pre-cum. She was praising him with every wet sound. Every shaky breath. Treating his dick like a holy relic. She looked up at him again, her lips glistening with his pre-cum and her spit, her eyes pleading. 

“You so big, Smoke,” Annie groaned, her hand tightening its grip, pumping and bouncing that meaty dick in her grip. “I just want it…I want all of this dick inside me. But I gotta taste ya’ first. I gotta serve ya’…”

Smoke groaned, his hips giving a small, involuntary twitch forward. He reached down, his hand burying itself in the fabric of her headwrap, tilting her head back so he could see the sheer desperation in her eyes. He loved the way she looked at him. Like he was a god. Like his dick was the only thing in the world that mattered. 

“Then get it, baby,” Smoke growled, his voice low and dangerous. “Open that pretty mouth and take every inch of it.”  

She opened her mouth wide, her lips parting in a wet, eager circle as she leaned forward to take him. She started by swirling her tongue around the broad, weeping head of his dick, tasting the thick bed of pre-cum that clung to his slit and wouldn’t stop leaking. She let out a muffled moan of approval, her eyes fluttering shut for a second as she savored the taste of his skin. 

Then, she slid forward, taking the head and the first few inches of the shaft into her mouth. The sheer girth of him stretched her lips tight, filling her oral cavity completely. She loved the feeling of being stretched, the way her cheeks puffed out slightly to accommodate the massive thickness of his meat. She knew exactly how Smoke liked it. He didn’t want a gentle touch. He wanted to feel her struggle and succumb to his size. 

Annie started to suck. 

She used her tongue to massage the ridge of the glans—his most sensitive spot—creating a wet, slapping sound every time her lips broke the seal to gasp for air.

Slurp. Pop. Shlick

The noises were raw and vividly resonant. 

Annie focused on the underside of the shaft, flicking her tongue over the vein that pulsed like a living thing against her palate. As she worked her way deeper, she felt the back of her throat tighten. She pushed past her limit, gagging slightly as the head of his dick hit the back of her throat. Instead of pulling away, she leaned into it, her eyes watering, her nose closer to his pubic hair the more she tried. 

She loved the feeling of him claiming her mouth. The way he dominated her breathing. 

She began to bob her head. Sliding up and down the length of him, throat working hard to swallow as much as possible. Nose pulling in air so she wouldn’t choke. Lips and jaw muscles working to keep a tight ring around his shaft as she sucked. 

Smoke was losing his damn mind.

He gripped the fabric of her headwrap tighter, knuckles bulging, guiding her with a firm hand. His hips twitched forward instinctively, driving himself deeper into her wet mouth. He loved the suction she created. The way she slurped and sealed his dick, pulling at him with a needy intensity and a slow, roll of her neck that made his toes curl in his ankle boots. 

“Yeah, like that, baby…do it like that,” Smoke groaned, his voice a jagged rasp. “Suck it…take all this meat, you such a greedy lil’ thing.” 

Annie responded by increasing the suction, cheeks hollowing out as she pulled on him. She used her hand to grip the base of his dick, pumping in sync with her mouth, ensuring that every single inch of him was being stimulated. She could feel the vibrations of his groans traveling through his dick and into her jaw. 

Annie looked up at him through her lashes, her eyes dazed and devoted, watching the way his face contorted in pleasure. 

She knew the signs. The way his breath became short and shallow. The way his thighs began to tremble. 

She sped up, her tongue working frantically around the head while she sucked the shaft with a powerful force. The sound became a wet, messy symphony of lubrication and lust, the squelch of her saliva coating his dark stick as she worshipped him. She was determined to drain every drop of pleasure from his massive frame. 

Smoke’s hand clamped tight onto Annie’s headwrap, his fingers digging into the fabric to anchor her firmly in place. He stopped letting her set the pace and took complete control, his hips beginning to drive forward in a slow, punishing motion. 

He started fucking her mouth, the thick rigid length of his dick sliding deep into her throat with every thrust. 

Annie looked liked she’d been crying for hours—eyes puffy, spit-covered, cheeks sunken and lips puffy from all that damn sucking—and Smoke loved it. 

His face was a mask of raw, unfiltered pleasure. 

His features contorted, eyes squeezed shut as he felt the wet, tightness of her mouth gripping him. A low, jagged groan ripped from his chest. Smoke was shaking, powerful thighs trembling with the effort of holding back the tide, but the sensation of her tongue swirling around the head while her throat squeezed the shaft was driving him over the edge.

“Goddamn, Annie…” Smoke rasped. “You suck it so fuckin’ good…mouth feel like heaven…so tight…so wet…”

Smoke thrust deeper, forcing a muffled, throaty whimper from her. He loved the way she surrendered her mouth to him. The way her eyes fluttered in devotion as she took every inch of his girth like a good wife supposed to. Smoke could feel his dick pulsing violently inside her mouth, the veins throbbing against her tongue, engorged to the absolute limit. 

Then, she grabbed for his balls. His heavy balls. They were covered in spit. Annie used her fingers to massage his wet balls like they were fine jewels. A soft, rotating motion that tickled in the best way. 

The pressure in his loins became an unbearable ache, a white–hot tension that demanded release. Smoke increased the speed, his thrusts becoming shorter, harder, and more desperate. The sound of his dick sliding in and out of her mouth became a wet, slapping symphony—shluck, squelch, pop—as he drove himself into her. 

“Look at me. Look up at me while you suck my pole. I wanna see your eyes when I cum.”

Annie did just that. She flicked her gaze up at Smoke, giving him a slow, tantalizing blink like a femme fatale flapper. 

Smoke arched his hips forward at the same time Annie sucked. His fingers dug into her plush shoulders. He sounded like he was fighting for air. 

“I’m gon’ cum, Annie,” Smoke growled, his grip on her headwrap tightening until his fingers shook. “I’m ‘bout to blow—baby—the it all…take every fuckin’ drop of me—”

Smoke gave one final, deep plunge, burying himself to the hilt in her throat, his hips locking against her face as the first violent wave of orgasm crashed through him. 

maybe I’ll write a part two.

Poem: Lines of a Nasturtium by Anne Spencer

When Thanksgiving morning came, Annie slipped from the bed and got dressed as quiet as possible. It was incredibly early and it was still dark except for the faint morning light that was creeping through the windows.

Elijah was dead asleep on the couch with one arm thrown over his head as his chest rose and fell steadily. Annie smiled at the sight, walked over, and pulled the blanket up high on him. He stirred a bit, but didn't wake.

She went to the kitchen, and as quickly as possible, she scribbled a note to Elijah letting him know that she left for the day. After that she quickly started gathering the pies, not realizing that in her rush she had miscounted. She grabbed four of the pies and hurried out the door.

She stepped outside and a few minutes later she was driving through Baltimore. It didn't take long for her to pull up back home. She grabbed the pies from the backseat and headed inside. The door opened and the smell of greens and ham hit her in the face. 

Annie followed the smell to the kitchen where she found her grandmother, Aunt Clarisse, Rosette, and Olivia. Clarisse was the first to say something to her the moment she noticed her niece standing in the doorway.

"Look at who decided to come back home."

"Goodmorning," Annie laughed as she set the pies down on the table.

"Mornin', baby," her grandmother said from her place by the stove.

Little baby Olivia let out an excited squeal at the sight of Annie. She was practically bouncing from her spot on her blanket on the floor. Annie melted. She crouched down and kissed Olivia's chubby cheek.

Annie straightened and looked around the busy kitchen.

"What y'all doin'? Need help?"

"No. Your cousin done already messed up the greens," Clarisse shook her head. 

"I didn't mess up no damn—" Rosette started muttering under her breath. But before she could finish Mama Nette popped her with a kitchen towel. 

"Watch your mouth."

"What I get hit for? I'm too old for that," Rosette rubbed her arm. "And why Annie never get hit?"

"'Cause Annie listens," Mama Nette snorted.

"I listen," Rosette looked offended.

"No you don't."

"I do."

Clarisse and Mama Nette exchanged a look.

"Yeah right, Annie mess up all the time, but y'all don't ever get mad at her," Rosette rolled her eyes.

"Annie ain't never messed up nothin' I taught her," Mama Nette looked genuinely confused by the statement. "That's why she the only one that know all my pie receipes."

A smug smile spread across Annie's face as she bent down and scooped Olivia into her arms. The baby immediately settled against her chest. Annie kissed the top of her little head.

"Can't help that I'm the favorite."

Rosette narrowed her eyes at her, but Annie just looked with that same smug smile as she bounced Olivia gently.

"Shut up."

"Don't be jealous, Rosie," Annie laughed.

"You lucky you holdin' my baby."

The room erupted into laughter. Even Olivia giggled though she didn't understand any of it.

When they settled, Clarisse looked over at Annie, giving her a pointed look, "You not gettin' outta where you was at, Miss Thing."

"She was over at that man's house."

Annie stared at her grandmother in disbelief. The older woman kept right on stirring.

Clarisse slowly nodded as she looked at Annie, "Hm. You been shackin' up?"

Before Annie could even answer, Mama Nette spoke again.

"No," Annie sighed in relief, but then her grandmother continued. "But she want to."

The relief disappeared. Annie sat there feeling completely betrayed.

"I don't know why you keep doin' this to me." Annie sputtered. "There ain't no reason for you to tell everybody my business."

"You ain't got no business," Mama Nette finally looked over. "You wasn't doin' nothin' remember?"

Rosette looked entirely too entertained at Annie getting clipped by their grandmother.

Annie opened her mouth then closed it becasue she truly had nothing to say to defend herself.

"She gonna have to repent extra hard this Sunday for all this lyin' she been doin' recently," Mama Nette shook her head. "That man be having her all twisted up and she know she like it."

Annie rolled her eyes dramatically then she buried her face against Olivia's little shoulder. Olivia just patted Annie's cheek.

A few hours later the cooking was finally almost done. Most of the food was finished and packed up. 

Annie stood in the dining room helping wrap a few things while Olivia sat on her hip chewing on the sleeve of her dress. The baby had spent most of the morning attached to her. Any time somebody tried to take her, Olivia would fuss until Annie got her back.

Mama Nette was doing one final count, making sure that they had everything they needed. When she got to the pies and noticed that there were only four she eyed Annie. 

"Annette, why you only got four pies here?" 

Annie looked at the table only to see that her grandmother was right. There were only four pies on the table. Her eyes immediately became wider. 

Rosette's face had a smirk on it, "Looks like the favorite messed up just that quick."

"Where they at and are they done?" Mama Nette folded her arms.

"Yes they're done Mama. I just forgot 'em," then she rushed over to the phone.

She dialed Elijah's number. The phone rang three times before Elijah answered.

"Hello?"

"Oh good. You're up," Annie sighed in relief.

"Bunny, I been up," His sleepy chuckle came through the line. "Why you callin'?"

"I forgot two of the pies. Can you bring them? They should still be on the counter."

"Yeah, I got you."

"Thank you, baby."

"It ain't nothing."

"I'll see you soon."

"See you soon."

After hanging up, Annie helped her family load everything up into the cars. Once everything was put up, the two cars hit the road to Ray's house. 

There were a line of cars on the street when they pulled up. The front door opened and family members poured out to help take the dishes inside. 

Inside the home Ray had moved everyhting around to make space for everyone. He had put some tables together to make one large table in the middle of the living room. There was also a smaller table for the children and room for the food. 

The house was loud with conversation and children playing. Food was already on the table and what they brought only added to it. Everything was just what Annie missed about home. Good food and family. The only thing she felt was missing was Elijah. 

Suddenly, Victoria appeared beside her.

"So when he gettin' here?"

"Soon," Annie rolled her eyes, an unintentional habit.

A while later, Annie found herself standing near the window peeking out of it every few seconds. Five-year-old Joyce had attached herself to Annie's legs asking her a million questions. It distracted her enough to not look out the window every five minutes. It wasn't like she was waiting on anyone.

But when a knock hit the door, Annie pulled away from the little girl, giving some random excuse. She hurried to the door, pulled it open, and there Elijah stood with the two forgotten pies in his hand. 

He was dressed nice in black slacks, a black button down shirt, and a dark blue wool coat. He even had on polished hard bottom shoes. His look made Annie smile. And it wasn't because he never made the effort to look nice, but Annie knows that Elijah could care less about how he looked. But clearly he had decided to put a little extra effort in today.

Elijah looked into her big, soft, brown eyes and felt the hint of nervousness in him disappear.

"Hey, Bunny," Elijah smiled.

"Hi, baby," she said sweetly.

They leaned into each other so naturally. Their lips met in a gentle kiss. And once they pulled apart Annie was smiling. She was so utterly happy.

"Thank you again for bringing the pies."

"You're welcome."

She looked at him for another second. Then leaned forward and kissed him again. This one lasted a touch longer.

She pulled back and grabbed his hand, "Come on let's get you inside."

She led him inside and the warmth of the family atmosphere surrounded him. The house was loud with conversation that floated from every direction. Laughter was mixed in along with the sounds of children running and playing. 

Annie kept hold of his hand as she guided him through the house of people. She could tell that her family was looking, but trying to hold in their comments. They walked until they got to the food table.

"Put them right there," he set the strawberry pies down where she told him.

Annie noticed the way Elijah looked around at everyone. She knew how overwhelming her family could be, and for someone like Elijah she knew it could be a bit much. She squeezed his hand to get his attention.

"If it get too much, you tell me."

"I'll be alright," Elijah looked at her, his face not showing any signs of overstimulation.

"You sure?"

"Mhm."

She studied him for another second then nodded.

Unfortunately she never got the chance to start introducing him around.

"Elijah come here," Mama Nette's voice carried easily through the house. "And Annie go help your uncles with the kids in the kitchen."

Both of them looked over to see the older woman sitting comfortably in a chair in the den.

"Mama—"

"Gone on."

Annie huffed as she stared into the older woman's eyes. And Mama Nette stared right back. Neither woman looked away. 

Elijah tugged at Annie's hand, "It's okay, Bunny."

"Fine," Annie looked uncertain, but she sighed. "But I'll be back."

She squeezed his hand one last time before disappearing toward the kitchen.

Elijah watched her go then looked at the older woman who was waiting on him. Mama Nette gestured to the empty chair near her as a way to tell him to sit down. And he obeyed, not wanting to go against her. 

The second he sat down he understood why Annie was hesitant to leave him. There were four women and a baby staring at him. They were staring so intensely as if they were trying to see straight through his skin to his bones. He sat back in the chair and gulped.

Mama Nette noticed and the corner of her mouth twitched. She knew Elijah was a strong man, but the Richard women could could break down even the toughest of soldiers. 

"Let me introduce everybody to you since they just wanna stare at like you a zoo animal," Mama Nette pointed around the circle. "That's Clarisse, Annie's Aunt. Annie's cousin, Rosette and Rosette's daughter, Olivia. That's Esther, William Junior's wife. And Victoria, my oldest granddaughter."

They all still just stared at him not making any moves to say a thing to him.

"Now go on and introduce yourself," Mama Nette folded her hands in her lap.

Elijah cleared his throat. Suddenly he felt like a boy instead of a twenty-seven year old man.

"Nice to meet y'all. My name's Elijah Moore," the words managed to come out easy.

"And that's your real name?" Victoria tilted her head.

"Last time I checked," Elijah looked over at her.

Mama Nette chuckled at Elijah's audacity. She could tell he wasn't a man to back down easily. And she figured he had to be to deal with Annie.

"Oh, you tryna be Mister Funny Man?" Victoria's eyebrows furrowed, completely taken aback.

"Ain't nothin' funny to me," his answer came quick.

"Good. 'Cause ain't nothin' attractive 'bout a man who can't take nothin' serious."

"I'm takin' this very serious."

That earned him a few approving nods.

"Where you from?" Rosette asked as she balanced Olivia in her lap.

"Clarksdale, Mississippi."

"So you a Delta man?" 

"Yes ma'am."

"Do you know where we from?" Clarisse asked.

"Yes ma'am," Elijah rubbed his sweating and slightly shaking palms against his thighs. Something about the intensity of these women was making his anxiety act up.

"You ever been there before?"

"A few times."

"So that means you know what we capable of?"

"I think so," Elijah didn't quite know what Annie's Aunt meant by that, but he remembered the conversation he had with Mama Nette. He didn't think he wanted to get on the bad side of a bunch of Hoodoo women.

"What you do for work?" Victoria asked.

"I work at Ray's garage."

"That what you really wanna do?" Clarisse asked.

The question made Elijah pause becasue nobody had really asked him that before. At least not recently. Usually people asked what he did, but not if that was what he really wanted to do. He looked down for a second before answering as honestly as he could.

"I don't rightly know. I guess I ain't figured out exactly what I want yet. I know I'm good with my hands, so it works out," he shrugged.

"I bet you are," Rosette smirked as her eyes dropped down to his hands.

Elijah cleared his throat and shifted in his seat at her staring. For a half a second he considered hiding them, but then he realized foing that would probably make it worse..

"Got good workin' hands too," Rosette's smirk just deepened.

"Rosette," Clarisse said in warning.

"Sorry, Mama."

The women laughed as Elijah rubbed the back of his neck.

Thankfully, Esther moved the conversation along.

"How long you been in Baltimore?"

"Since April."

"Ain't been here that long and you already got your eyes set on my niece," Clarisse said.

Before he could answer, Victoria spoke.

"How long you plannin' on stayin' in Baltimore?"

"I—"

"Everything okay?" A familiar voice cut through the conversation.

Everybody turned to see Annie standing next to Elijah's chair. She walked up and rested a hand on his shoulder. She looked from the women to Elijah with concern written all over her face. 

"Girl ain't nobody doin' nothin' to this man. He alright," Mama Nette as she turned in her chair. "Go back to the kitchen."

"You okay?" Annie ignored the woman and looked at Elijah.

"I'm alright, Bunny," Elijah lightly grabbed her hand and nodded his head.

She still looked suspicious.

Mama Nette waved her hand, "Take your ass back on in there."

"If we was gon' hurt him we'd already done it," her Aunt Clarisse said.

Annie huffed dramatically, but she listened. Reluctantly she started walking away. But in the process she let her hand slide from Elijah's shoulder then down his arm. Elijah caught the hand before she could fully walk away.

The women all watched as Elijah lifted it and pressed a kiss to the back of it. He did it as if it was second nature. It was the type of affection that made Annie smile when she finally walked away.

He turned beack to see all eyes were on him again. 

"What exactly you want with my cousin?" Rosette tilted her head.

Elijah eyes moved between the women, wanting them to understand how serious he was about their Annie.

"I want everything with her."

The women exchanged glances.

Nobody laughed.

Nobody teased.

"Saying everything is a might big statement. You know that?" One of Clarisse's eyebrows rose in question. 

"Yes, ma'am."

"Do you know what all that means when it come to Annie? She ain't no simple woman," Clarisse studied him carefully.

"Yes ma'am I do," Elijah confidently nodded. He already knew first hand how difficult Annie could be, but some would say he was just as bad.

"What about her makes you want her so bad?" Victoria asked.

Elijah took a moment to get his thoughts together, and not because he didn't know, but because he wanted to say it right.

"Truthfully, she saved and she don't even know it. When I got back from overseas I wasn't doing well. There were days I'd wake up angry, couldn't sleep, and didn't want to be around nobody. And you wouldn't know it by looking at me. But when I found her, she lit up something in me. It was like she planted herself in my blood and I ain't have a bad day since," his voice was calm as he spoke.

"I don't want nothin' temporary with her. She don't deserve that. She's the woman I wanna wake up beside every mornin'. I wanna take care of her . I wanna spend the rest of my life fmy life hearin' her talk because she can just go on about stuff she gets excited about. And I always want her excited about something. It's my job to keep her happy and that's what I plan to do."

"I love how she takes care of people whether they ask for it or not. She remembers everything and she loves her family. She always has enough love for everybody. I love how determined she is. She works hard and she has dreams and goals. Hell, I even love how stubborn she is," that makes everyone laugh.

Mama Nette takes a moment to just stare at Elijah. She'd never heard him talk this much. He seemed like a man that didn't say more than he had to. But it looks like that when it comes to her granddaughter, he had a whole lot to say and he needed to say it. That man loved Annie and it was written all over him.

"Ain't never heard anybody talk about her like that before. You must really love her?" Esther asked.

"I'm in love with her," Elijah's answer came out so quick as he looked at her. 

Nobody said anything because there wasn't really anything to say. The sincerity in his voice was impossible to miss, and they could feel the love practically floating off of him.

"Annie," Mama Nette's voice floated thorughout the house, and within seconds, hurried footsteps were heard.

Annie appeared looking rather worried. She looked at Elijah, but he showed no signs that there was anything to be worried about. So, she turned her eyes to her grandmother.

"Yes, Mama?"

"Everything ready?"

"…Yes?" Annie blinked confused.

"Everybody let's go on to the table."

Everyone in the house started making their way to the living room. Even Annie, who was still trying to figure out what happened. Elijah followed beside her not giving anything away.

Certain foods had been moved from the food table to the table. Everyone gathered around the white tablecloth covered table. Mama Nette took her place at the head of the table and reached for the hands beside her.

"Everybody close ya eyes and bow ya heads," almost everyone obeyed even the small children.

Elijah was the only one still looking around at the full circle.

Annie briefly opened her eyes to see Elijah with his wide open. She tugged his hand that was in hers.

"Close your eyes."

He closed his eyes and lowered his head just before Mama Nette started praying. As soon as she finished everyone said Amen and let their hands go. They moved to find their seats and the children scrambled to their table.

Elijah automatically reached for Annie's chair and pulled it out. Then he waited until she sat to push it in. She smiled up at him.

"Thank you, baby."

He nodded as he took the seat beside her. And as soon as he settled in his seat he had the feeling of being watched. He looked up to see Ray, Marcus, and an older man looking at him from way down at the other end of the table.

Annie lightly tapped Elijah's arm, pulling him away from the three men's stares. He gave his attention to Annie. She was holding the plate that was in his spot in her hand.

"What you want on you plate?" she asked.

"Whatever you think," Elijah glanced over the spread.

Annie rolled her eyes, but did as told. She scooped some mac and cheese, greens, candied yams, and dressing on his plate. Then she got up to put some meat on the plate for him. She knew that she didn't have to do this because Elijah was perfectly fine doing things for himself, but she felt with all this pressure from her family she would ease his mind a little today.

She sat back down and set Elijah's plate down in front of him. He thanked her and she went to grab her own plate to start putting her food together.

"Annette."

Annie looked up to see her Uncle William staring at him from the other end of the table. 

"Yes, sir?"

"How long you been with him?"

Annie's eyes flickered to Elijah before returning to her uncle. William hadn't even verbally acknowledged and now he was talking as if the man wasn't sitting at the table next to her.

"We been together a few months now."

"A few months. Ain't that somethin'," William hummed as he stabbed a piece of turkey with his fork. "Must be serious if you lettin' him come to Thanksgiving."

"Yes sir. If you say so," Annie knew how her oldest uncle could get.

"Since you bringing him to Thanksgiving, I'd say so."

Several people around the table exchanged glances. Across the table Uncle Ray was trying not to grin.

"Ray," William looked at his younger brother.

"Yeah brother?" Ray looked up from his food.

"How long he been working at your shop?"

"Since April," a smirk appeared on Ray's face.

"And how'd he get that job?"

Ray looked at Elijah then back to William, "Annie mostly."

Annie breathed out in frustration. She could feel the irritation rolling off of Elijah and she knew if this kept going he would be in his right to say something.

"Uncle Ray, you know that's not true."

"And is," he shrugged. "You always tryna save somebody."

"Girl woulda brought home a stray dog if Mama let her. Guess she kept up the habit."

Annie's face showed clear irritation as she dropped her fork down.

"Okay, y'all gone stop talking about him like he ain't sittin' right here. He's a good man and comparin' him to a stray dog is disrespectful. I know y'all tryna look out for me, but I don't like how y'all going about it. You can't say you protectin' me 'cause this ain't it. These things y'all sayin' is hurtful. Get to know him before y'all try to make assumptions about him," Annie looked between both of her uncles.

"That's right," Mama Nette muttered. Her sons could be a real piece of work at times.

William sighed and Ray looked down at his plate. Neither man liked being corrected by their niece like that, especially in front of the whole family. But neither one would go against her either.

"Ain't mean no disrespect," her Uncle William looked genuinely pained by the admission.

"Me neither," Ray said right after.

This was the closest thing to an apology that Elijah had ever heard from Ray's mouth, but he didn't care too much about that when he was irritated by the older man. He face was stone cold as he stared at the two men. One of the things he wouldn't ever take was disrespect from two grown men, or at least two supposed grown men.

"I understand that y'all protectin' her and all but anything anybody wanna know about me can be asked directly to me. I'm an honest man and ain't one to just sit and pussyfoot around, but y'all makin' it real hard to act civil. I'm a grown man not a dog."

Then, before anybody could say anything else a loud crash echoed from the children's table. Little Jeremy was staring at the floor in horror while a glass of sweet tea spread across the table and dripped into his lap.

The interruption only lasted a few minutes before everybody settled back into eating. Towels had been brought out and Jeremy had been reassured that nobody was upset with him.

Elijah had managed to avoid being the center of attention again. At least until Mama Nette spoke up from her seat. She had been watching him for most of the meal anyway.

"Elijah, you likin' the food?"

"Yes ma'am. Ain't had food like this in a long time," he glanced down at the crowded plate in front of him.

"Why you ain't?" Victoria looked up from where she was helping Joyce cut her ham into smaller pieces.

"I was overseas for a few years. And before that me and my brother was movin' around so much we couldn't really get no good homecooked food like this."

"You was in the military?" William Jr. asked.

"Since fifty-four."

"You Army?" William Sr. set his fork down.

"Yes sir," Elijah kept his face stone cold.

William nodded thoughtfully. Then he took a sip of sweet tea before asking the next question.

"You hunt?"

Annie looked at her uncle and so did some of the other men at the table.

"Only done it once or twice."

"Mississippi boy only hunted twice?" William raised an eyebrow.

"Yes sir. My daddy wasn't teaching us much of nothing."

"Fair enough," William slowly nodded seeming to understand there was more to that story. "If you shoot good you'll be alright. But we'll see 'bout that."

Elijah looked on confused. And he was about to ask what exactly the man meant by that, but the conversation moved on. The entire focus of the table shifted away from the topic completely. When he looked over at Annie she seemed to be just as confused as he was. But her confusion had some understanding to it.

"Bunny, what he said that for?"

Annie cleared her throat and looked at Elijah, "I think he just invited you to go huntin' with them."

"Why he do that? Seem like he don't like me."

"He only invites the men he respects to hunt with him."

The dining table had been cleared. Leftovers had been wrapped and stacked. Somebody had put the radio on. And the card table was out. The children went back to running through the house despite being told at least fifteen times not to.

Annie sat tucked away in the den with Olivia in her lap. The baby had screamed for her the last ten minutes of dinner, so Annie had no choice but to grab her. And the girl was finally in her arms, she refused to leave. 

The baby was currently fight sleep with everything she had. Her tiny eyes kept falling closed before snapping back open every time her head started to fall. 

"You so tired, huh?" Annie chuckled softly as Olivia blinked up at her. 

The baby just shoved two small fingers into her mouth as an answer. A string of drool followed soon after. Annie grabbed a cloth from beside and wiped the baby's chin. Olivia curled herself against Annie's chest, her other hand fisted the woman's dress.

That was when Elijah appeared beside the couch. He had just gotten out of a conversation about cars that he got roped into by Annie's cousins, Percy and Johnathon. Now he looked relieved to have found Annie again.

He sat down beside her. His eyes moved from her face down to the baby attached to her. Olivia had somehow managed to wedge herself directly into Annie's side.

Annie followed his gaze, "What?"

"Nothin'."

It wasn't nothing because Elijah couldn't stop staring. Annie looked so natural holding a baby, even if the baby was family. It was like every move of hers was instinctive. He had noticed since the dinner table. 

And it wasn't just the baby that Annie seemed to shine with. The older children were just as attached. They followed her from room to room, calling for her, wanting her attention. And every single time she'd stop what she was doing and answer them.

The sight of it all made he aware of his thoughts. He found himself wondering what Annie would look like with their children. What their babies would look like. He hoped they would have her pretty brown eyes, and her smile, and her laugh.

"What you thinkin' so hard about?"

"Hm?" Elijah came back to reality, blinking the thoughts away. 

Annie shook her head and let out a little puff of a laugh. She had noticed the way Elijah had looked at Olivia and wanted to test some waters.

"You wanna hold her?"

His eyebrows immediately lifted, "I don't know about that, Bunny."

"And why not?" Annie laughed.

"I ain't never really held a baby before," he looked at the baby.

"Seriously?" Annie stared at him.

Elijah nodded.

"Well that's a shame."

He looked down at Olivia and she looked back at him.

"I think you'll be fine. Olivia's easy."

"I don't know."

"Elijah."

He sighed, but she was already moving the baby. And when Olivia noticed she was getting moved out of the comfort of her arms, she made a sound of protest. Her tiny face scrunched up as if she was about to start crying. Annie shushed her as she bounced her lightly in the air.

"Oh hush. You're alright,"

Olivia clearly disagreed. Still, Annie carefully transferred her into Elijah's lap. The second the baby settled there, Elijah completely froze up. His hands hovered around her awkwardly unsure where they were supposed to go.

"Baby, don't look so scared," Annie tried so hard to hold her laughter in.

"I ain't scared," he shot her a look. "What if she fall though?"

"She ain't gone fall, just put your arm around her."

Reluctantly he wrapped one arm around Olivia.

The baby stared up at him. And after several seconds, Olivia decided she was okay with being around this strange man. She yawned and reached out to grab the front of his shirt. She pulled herself up a bit on her legs and laid down on his chest. The other tiny hand that wasn't gripping his shirt, reached around to his arm and softly started patting it.

Annie practically melted at the sight. But when she noticed Elijah's confusion on the movement she spoke up.

"She wants you to pat her back." 

Elijah nodded his head in understanding and hesitantly started to pat the baby's back as gently as he could. It didn't take long for her eyes to start closing and soon enough she was asleep.

Annie watched the sight quietly, not able to look away. He was being so careful handling something so small and precious. He looked so sweet with her. It truly made Annie wonder how he would be with their kids. Maybe she wouldn't have to wait too long to find out, if they could—

"Auntie Annie!" She looked up to see the children standing in front of her. "Come play with us!"

"What y'all playing?"

"Hide and seek!"

The children immediately started pulling on her arms to make her stand up. She did and was suddenly being dragged away.

Christmas Night, 1958

Inside Elijah's apartment, the lamps cast a warm glow across the living room. The Christmas tree stood in the corner near the window. It wasn't a big tree like the one Annie has at home, but it was good enough for the both of them. They had picked it out a few weeks earlier after Annie said that he couldn't do Christmas right with no tree.

They were currently sitting on the couch, practically under each other. Annie was curled into his side and Elijah had an arm on the back of the couch behind her. They'd spent most of the evening talking about the day, like how Ray had actually gotten Elijah a gift. And now, with the day being settled, Elijah thought it was time for them to give their gifts to each other.

Annie sat up straight, excited for whatever Elijah was going to give her. Elijah reached on the table and grabbed the box. He put it in her hands and she carefully began to open.

Elijah sat back and watched as her fingers worked the ribbon loose. The anticipation on her face alone made everything worth it.

She pulled the paper away and was met with the same coat she'd been stopping to look at every single time they went to the department store downtown. It was a beautiful cream-colored wool coat that cost far too much.

"You bought me the coat?" Annie asked as she lifted it out of the box.

"You kept lookin' at it, so I figured you wanted it but wouldn't buy it for yourself since it was so expensive."

She pouted, willing herself not to be too emotional.

Then she noticed there was a small box inside. She pulled it out and noticed the way Elijah looked away from her. He had suddenly become very interested in the Christmas tree.

"What's this?"

Elijah didn't respond, just nodded to the box. So she opened it.

Inside sat a simple yet elegant gold bypass ring with two small diamonds.

"Elijah," his name came out barely above a whisper.

"It ain't an engagement ring…yet," he rubbed the back of his neck. "I just wanted yo uto have it."

"Why would you spend this much money on me?" She shook her head.

"Who else I'm supposed to spend it on?" He made a confused face as if she asked the dumbest question in the world. "I wanna take care of you, Bunny. And you need to let me without askin' about how much it cost all the time. That ain't your problem, okay?"

The tone of his voice made her body get warm. Instead of verbally answering him, she just nodded her head in fear that if she did say something it would be something that neither one expected.

Eventually she slid the ring onto her ring finger on her right hand and it was a perfect fit. But of course it was. He probably had sneakily gotten her ring size months ago.

She stared at it for several seconds before giving the kind of smile tha treached her eyes. Then she looked at him with twinkling eyes.

"I got your gift too. It's in the car 'cause I can't bring it up by myself. It's heavy."

"What'd you buy me, woman?" He raised an eyebrow in curiosity.

"You gotta go get it."

A few minutes later they were outside in the cold. Annie stood beside him in her new coat while he opened her trunk. Inside was a large gift box. 

He carried it back into the apartment upstairs and set it down beside the couch.

Annie sat down on the couch and sighed as she looked at the box.

"I got this because Mama told me you didn't know what you really wanted to do, but you like workin' with your hands and fixin' things. So I'd figured you'd like this."

Elijah opened the lid to see a professional mechanic's toolkit. And it wasn't one of the cheap sets either. It was a Proto set. He ran his fingers over the polished metal while she looked on nervously.

"I picked it out myself. I did have to ask around a little for help, but I think I got the right stuff."

"You did just fine, Bunny. I really like it."

"You do?" Relief immediately washed over her face.

"Yeah."

He laughed softly the reached over and pulled her into his lap. Annie squealed at the movement. Elijah pressed a kiss to the side of her head.

"Thank you."

"You're welcome, baby."

He smiled and gave her a sweet kiss on the lips. When they pulled away Annie stared into his eyes.

"I checked your mail earlier and saw that you got a letter from your brother."

She slid off his lap, walked to the small table in the corner, and grabbed the envelope. She returned back to her spot in his lap.

"You wanna read it?"

"Don't matter," Elijah shrugged.

But Annie knew him well enough by now to know he wanted to hear it.

"I'll take that as a yes."

Carefully, she opened the envelope and pulled out several folded sheets of paper. She dramtically cleared her throat and began reading out loud.

Most of the first page was Stack just talking about anything like the people he'd met and the random arguments he'd gotten into. Though Annie had never met Stack before, she found herself smiling because it felt like she was getting a picture of him through his words. He was clearly different than Elijah. He seemed loud and reckless, but funny and charismatic.

When she got to the next page, she started reading about all the women he'd been with. She slightly lowered the paper and looked at Elijah.

"You got something to say?"

"Nope."

"You judging my brother?"

"I'm not, just seeing if this how you was."

Elijah sucked his teeth, "Woman you know me well enough to know that ain't what I do."

The next page shifted into stories about his gambling ventures and how shook several men for money. He'd become so invested in it, but it seemed to be working out for him.

"I don't think I like your twin too much," Annie shook her head.

"He's fine, just gotta let him settle in and you'll get used to him."

"Don't think I would."

"You would."

She continued reading despite her protests. Halfway through the next page she instinctively took to reading it in her head, but Elijah tried to peek at the words forcing her to go to reading it out loud again.

"How that dream girl doing? You ain't said much beside 'she's real'. If she's so real then tell me something about her. What's her name? What she do? What's she like? If she's worth writing about then you write about her. If she ain't, stop talking about her."

Annie's eyes slowly lifted. Elijah was avoiding looking directly at her, which told her everything.

She finished the rest of the letter which was mostly Stack asking questions about Baltimore and whether Elijah planned on staying there permanently, and work. Then the letter ended.

"Have you been writing about me?" Annie carefully folded the papers together.Elijah finally met her eyes.

"'Course I have. That's my twin. He know everything about me and I know everything about him. This the longest we been apart, and I had to tell him about the woman that's changed my life," the answer came easy for him.

"Can't believe you lasted this long away from him."

"I spent my whole life taking care of him. And I'd do it again. But if being apart from him now meant finding you, then I'd make that trade every time. I love you, Bunny and he should know that."

The emotion hit Annie hard. Her eyes watered as she leaned down a bit to kiss him. When she pulled back, she stayed close enough that their foreheads almost touched. Her eyes searched his and whatever she found there made her smile.

"I love you too."

Annie laughed softly at his expression.

"I'm in love with you."

His eyes lit up and the smile that spread across his face was the most brightest and boyish smile she'd ever seen him have. It was the smile he rarely showed anybody else, besides maybe Stack. Annie realized she'd never seen Elijah look happier than he did right then.

sinner!annie who feels that her connection to The Most High has been tainted due to her lifestyle. recently, she has been falling into temptation, allowing Satan to wrap his hands around her throat and drag her through a life of unrighteousness.

sinner!annie who loves to pretend she's pious by running to the church house on sunday's and for bible study on wednesday's, but any other day of the week, she's fucking husbands and deacons and important men in the community, feeding off of the power it gives her to bring a man to his knees and ruin his good name.

sinner!annie who's had her eyes set on her pastor for as long as she could remember. he was tall, sexy, and thick with a disapproving gaze that sent shivers throughout her body, and all she wanted was to have him crumble beneath her.

pastor!elijah who is the shepard to a congregation of 100 souls.

pastor!elijah who knows the face, name, and backstory of every one of his sheep. he takes his position seriously to ensure they all are as close to Godliness as they can achieve.

pastor!elijah who knows annie by face, name, and backstory; who watches her enter the church every sunday, eyes straight forward as she meanders down the center aisle and sits with her legs crossed on the front pew before laying a lap scarf over her knees. he notices the sway of her hips, the jaunt of her ass, and how she begins to wear dresses shorter and shorter as the sunday's pass by.

sinner!annie who set her plan into motion the moment she sees his eyes drag over her body. she spends the entire service fanning herself and envisioning him taking her over his desk in the fellowship hall, and when she's not fantasizing, she's putting on a good show of the most pious woman to ever exist.

sinner!annie who, the saturday before church, spends her evening laid up in bed with a man stroking her from behind. he's tall and sexy and thick—but he’s nothing like pastor elijah. she’s thought of him the entire time, those disapproving eyes, that grin when the congregation obeys his order to repeat a verse. she wants to obey him just as much as she wants to subdue him, and the urge to give in to her desires makes her feel sick.

pastor!elijah who sits in his office after service, hands folded and elbows pressing harshly into the wood. he's been unclean, harboring thoughts no man of God should, thoughts of one member of his flock, thoughts that should bring him to his knees before God. but all he wanted was her.

pastor!elijah who jumps in shock when the door to his office creaks open. everyone is gone—or at least they were supposed to be—but when he sees annie's eyes look upon him, his throat bobs in anticipation. one of his sheep needs help.

sinner!annie who sits before him with a bowed head and whispers, "i have not been acting as a Godly woman should, pastor." her tone is alluring, hot and sultry as her arms clasp in front of her in mock-shame. but she's getting exactly what she wants: pastor elijah's attention.

sinner!annie who cries.

sinner!annie who begs for forgiveness.

sinner!annie who kneels before him, asking for mercy.

pastor!elijah who faces her, standing over her trembling form with his head tilted in amusement. he can read right through her. he knows she's not seeking real forgiveness, and he doesn't plan on giving it to her anytime soon.

pastor!elijah who reaches for her chin, pulling her up to face him and mutters back, "how have you sinned, sister annie? show me."

sinner!annie who shudders at the chance to obey his word; who moves with a quickness, standing before him. her breath becomes heavy, and her agile fingers move down the length of his body. "please forgive me, pastor 'lijah," she groans, upzipping his slacks and pushing them down his legs.

pastor!elijah who nearly growls when her hand wraps around his dick, but he stuffs the sound down and hides his need behind a scowl. "the bible says, 'if we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.' confess your sins, annie."

sinner!annie who moans out, "yes, pastor," before she's back on her knees and swallowing him down the back of her throat. she chokes around him, rutting against nothing but the imagination of him between her legs. this feels holier than anything she's done before, closer to God than she ever thought she'd be able to achieve. she hums around him when he trembles, tears springing from her eyes.

pastor!elijah who allows himself to be conquered; who accepts the opportunity of being wrecked by her. he feels the talons of Satan wrapping tight around his throat, but the closer she brings him to his climax—the more she confesses every sin and wrongdoing—the easier he allows himself to be brought under with her.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

word count: ~900

a/n: talk to meee

taglist: comment HERE to be added!

September 7th, 1958

The afternoon sun poured through the classroom windows, making everything glow warm and golden. 

It was the last lesson of the day and Annie stood at the front of the room with a piece of chalk in her hand, trying her hardest to keep twenty-something restless children focused for just a few more minutes. 

It was Friday afternoon. The weekend was only moments away. Their little bodies were practically vibrating with excitement. Every few seconds somebody shifted in their seat.

Annie fought back a smile.

"Y'all can give me five more minutes," she said, tapping the chalk lightly against the board.

A few dramatic groans filled the room.

"Miss Annie," one little girl whined.

"Just a little longer."

And as she continued teaching, she noticed strange things were happening. The children kept exchanging secret little looks and whispers. A few of them kept reaching inside their desks and then quickly pulling their hands back out whenever she looked in their direction.

Her eyebrows pulled together in confusion because something was definitely going on. But before she could investigate, one of the students in the front row suddenly shot their hand into the air.

"Miss Annie!"

Annie stopped writing on the board, "Yes, baby?"

"We got a surprise for you!" The little girl bounced excitedly in her seat.

"A surprise?" she asked.

The child nodded so hard her braids bounced.

Annie looked around the room to see all the children were smiling at her. She was truly confused

"What kinda surprise?" she asked.

The children looked around at each other like they were making sure everyone was ready. Then all at once little hands dove into the openings of their desks. After grabbing what they were reaching for, they stood up. And the room exploded in noise as they all shouted happy birthday.

Annie gasped. Her hand flew to her chest so fast she almost dropped her chalk.

The children held up paper hearts. Some were cut perfectly, others looked like circles more than hearts. A few had glitter and crayon scribbles on. But every single one had something written on it.

"Oh my goodness..." Her voice cracked as she looked around, a little laugh coming out. Her eyes were starting to sting. 

Her heart was entirely too full as she took in every little face. This particualr first grade class had only been with her for a month, yet somehow these babies had warmed up to her quickly.

She knew who needed help tying their shoes, who hated number and reading, the ones who always forgot their materials. And apparently they knew her too.

"You surprised me alright," she admitted.

A little girl in the back practically vibrated with excitement, "You really was surprised?!"

"I was very surprised."

The entire room erupted into cheers.

Annie's eyes were soft and full of love as she said, "I love y'all so much."

At that statement it was like she opened the floodgates. The children jumped up from their spots and rushed her. Tiny arms wrapped around any place they could touch. Some of them squeezed so hard Annie nearly lost her balance.

Annie laughed helplessly while trying to hug all of them back.

The kids started screaming about how much they loved her, how they didn't want her to get old, and saying happy birthday over and over. 

In the middle of all the chaos, Lillian appeared in the doorway. Apparently, the noise from Annie's classroom had traveled down the hallway.

"Everything okay in here?" she asked.

Annie looked up from the sea of children attached to her. She was holding several of them while others continued waving their paper hearts in the air. 

"They just surprised me, that's all."

One little girl turned around proudly.

"We made Miss Annie happy birthday hearts."

Lillian looked on at the most adorable sight in front of her and smiled.

"Alright now, y'all don't squeeze her too hard. She gotta make it to her actual birthday tomorrow," she said finally. 

The children took that and started shouting about birthdays, cakes, presents, and ice cream. Lillian shook her head affectionately before stepping back into the hallway.

It took Annie a good while to get her classroom back under control. Every time she managed to get one child back in their seat, another one was popping up to give her one last hug or wave one of their paper hearts at her.

Eventually, after enough promises that she loved every single one of them and that she would absolutely remember their surprise forever, the children finally settled back into their desks.

The room buzzed with leftover excitement as Annie sat on the edge of her desk watching them pack up.

One of the kids stopped packing and turned to her with narrowed eyes, "Miss Annie?"

"Yes?"

"Does being twenty-six mean you're old?" the little boy tilted his head.

Several children gasped and a few looked at her concerned.

"Now why would you ask me something like that?" Annie bit her lip to keep herself from laughing.

"My mama say twenty-five is almost thirty and when you're thirty you get bad knees," the boy shrugged.

"Twenty-six ain't old," she managed to say.

The children seemed relieved.

"So you still young?"

Annie nodded, "Yes. Very young."

Thankfully, the final bell chose that exact moment to ring throughout the building. As they filed toward the door, many of them stopped beside her to give her a goodbye.

The room slowly emptied until the last child finally disappeared through the doorway.

Annie smiled softly before walking back toward her desk.

Usually she'd throw everything into a bag and grade it at home, but not today. Since tomorrow was her birthday, she had no intention of spending any part of the weekend hunched over papers. So, she settled into her chair and got to work.

The next hour passed and the school gradually emptied around her. When she finished, she stretched her arms above her head and groaned softly. She packed everything away, making sure to take extra care of the little paper hearts. 

After checking her classroom one last time, Annie switched off the lights and headed outside. The late afternoon air felt warm against her skin. She walked across the parking lot toward her car. The bright yelowl paint practically glowed in the sunlight.

She unlocked the door and loaded her things into the back seat. Then she slid in behind the steering wheel. A moment later she pulled out of the parking lot and headed home.

The entire ride home was a bit shorter than usual but it put Annie in an even better mood.

When she pulled onto her street, the late afternoon sun was beginning to soften into evening. The neighborhood was alive. Children were still playing outside, people sat on their front stoops, and music was playing from an open window. 

Annie eased her yellow car into her usual parking spot along the curb in front of the house. She gathered her purse, her grading bag, her lunch container, and her students' paper hearts before climbing out.

"Hey, Little Annie!"

She looked over and saw Mr. Jenkins and his wife sitting on their stoop across the street.

"Hey, Mr. Jenkins."

"How was work?"

"It was good."

"You ready for your birthday tomorrow?"

Annie smiled wide at the couple, "It seems like everybody's ready."

Mr. Jenkins laughed, " That's 'cause Annette been reminding people about it all week."

Annie rolled her eyes.

Mrs. Jenkins smiled.

"Happy birthday, baby."

"Thank you."

After another minute of chatting, Annie finally headed inside the house. She pushed the front door open, the familiar smell of food greeted her.

"Mama?" Annie called.

"In the kitchen."

Annie followed the sound of her grandmother's voice and sure enough, Mama Nette stood at the stove with an apron tied around her waist. Annie dropped her things on a nearby chair before leaning over and pressing a kiss against her grandmother's cheek.

"Hey, baby."

"Hey."

"How was work?" her grandmother patted 

Annie's face lit up.

"The kids did the cutest thing ever," She started digging through her bag. "They made me birthday paper hearts."

She pulled out several of them and spread them across the kitchen table.

Mama Nette turned from the stove long enough to look. A soft smile graced her face. The hearts were covered in drawings and messages.

"Well ain't that just sweet? This class must really love you."

Annie nodded her head as she sat down at the kitchen table. She kicked off one heel th the table and stretched her legs, "I guess they really do. They're really an interesting group. One of them asked me if turning twenty-six meant I was old."

Mama Nette let out a laugh that echoed through the kitchen, "What'd you tell 'em?"

"I told them twenty-six ain't old."

"'Cause it ain't. But it is grown."

"I guess," Annie hummed.

Despite turning twenty-six tomorrow, there were still moments where she felt seventeen or twelve…or seven. There were still times she wanted somebody else to make decisions for her. 

The conversation faded and the kitchen grew quiet for a few moments. The only sounds came from the food cooking and the occasional clink of utensils.

Annie leaned back in her chair while Mama Nette stirred a pot. Then, without turning around, she spoke.

"You been spending a lot of time with Elijah lately."

Annie already knew where this conversation was headed. Still, she answered casually.

"Well, we're together now. So…" She trailed off.

"Mhm."

"You know that."

"I know."

Annie eyed the back of her grandmother's head suspiciously, but Mama Nette kept cooking.

"You two together just about every day."

Now that they had finally gotten past their argument and officially started courting, it felt natural. If she wasn't at work, there was a good chance she was with Elijah. If she wasn't with Elijah, she was probably thinking about him. And she knew he was the same way.

Annie shrugged, "I just like seeing him. Is that hard to believe?"

"Mhm."

The hum was getting on Annie's nerves now.

Mama Nette stirred something again.

"You been spending a lot of time at his apartment too."

Annie narrowed her eyes. 

Her grandmother never brought up something unless she was headed somewhere with it. Over the past few weeks Annie had splent plenty of time there. She'd be there after work and on weekends. Some Saturdays she'd stay almost the entire day. They would watch television, cook together, talk, listen to records, read, and sometimes she'd fall asleep on his couch. But every single time, she'd always gone home and her grandmother knew that. Which meant she was fishing.

Annie sighed loudly, "For your information, we don't be doing anything."

"I ain't say y'all did."

"You was trying to."

"I wasn't trying to do nothing."

Mama Nette finally glanced over her shoulder with a tiny smile tugging at her lips.

"Well you saying it like I'm doing something."

"Are you?"

"You know I'm not!"

"Mhm," Mama Nette turned back toward the stove.

The sound only made Annie more irritated.

"I'm not doing this with you," Annie immediately started gathering her things. "I'm going upstairs."

Before her grandmother could say anything else, Annie grabbed her bag and headed toward the stairs. She could hear Mama Nette chuckling behind her as she climbed each step.

A grumble came out as she disappeared into her room and shut the door behind her.

The next morning, Annie was pulled from sleep by the sound of a gentle knock against her bedroom door.

She groaned softly and buried her face deeper into her pillow. For a few seconds she debated pretending she hadn't heard it, but then another knock came.

"Come in," she called sleepily.

The door opened slowly and Mama Nette stepped inside carrying a plate in one hand. She had a smile on her face and was humming as soon as she entered the room.

The familiar tune instantly wrapped around Annie. It was a song she'd heard her entire life and it always proved that she was loved.

Annie sat up slowly against her pillows as her grandmother approached the bed.

On the plate sat a large homemade cinnamon roll covered in icing with a single lit candle right in the center. The flame danced softly in the morning light.

Mama Nette sat carefully on the edge of the bed and finished the last few lines of the song.

"Happy birthday, baby."

"Thank you."

Mama Nette held the plate toward her.

"Make a wish."

Annie looked down at the candle.

Somehow she was twenty-six now. It felt strange.

She remembered being a little girl wishing she could hurry up and become grown. Now she was grown. She had a job she loved, friends who loved her, and a man that she was actually falling in love with. Her life wasn't perfect, but it was hers.

Annie closed her eyes and made her wish. Then she leaned forward and blew the candle out. The tiny flame disappeared and Mama smiled at her.

Her grandmother set the plate on the bedside table before standing. Then a mischievous smile appeared on her face and she folded her arms.

"I got a surprise downstairs."

"What kind?"

"If I tell you it ain't a surprise," Her grandmother laughed. "So get decent and take your time."

Mama Nette headed toward the door and disappeared down the hall.

The second the door closed Annie reached for the cinnamon roll. The icing was still warm and that first bite made her groan. No bakery had ever made one that tasted better.

She ate it quickly while trying to guess what the surprise could possibly be. When she finished, her curiosityy was eating her alive. She threw on her robe, slipped her feet into house shoes, and hurried out of her room. The smell of breakfast drifted up from downstairs.

Annie gripped the banister and quickly descended the stairs. She followed the faint sounds coming from the dining room.

The second she stepped through the doorway she stopped. Elijah was in the middle of the dining room holding a huge bouquet of flowers in one arm and a beautifully wrapped box in the other. He looked up at the exact moment she entered.

Annie let out the loudest squeal of excitement and before he could even react she was moving across the floor. He had to hold the flowers out so they wouldn't get crushed as she practically launched herself at him.

"Good morning to you too, Bunny."

She wrapped both arms around his neck and squeezed him tightly. So tightly he had to adjust the gifts in his hands.

"You're here! You weren't supposed to be here yet!"

"I know."

Annie hugged him even tighter. Her excitement was impossible to contain.

"I thought I wasn't seeing you until later."

Elijah finally shifted the flowers enough to wrap one arm around her waist. His hand settled against her back.

"There was no way I was lettin' your birthday start without seeing you."

Annie's smile grew. Her heart felt so full she thought she might float away.

Elijah looked at her. Despite how she looked with her robe, still rolled hair, and a just woke up face, he thought she looked absolutely beautiful. He pressed a gentle kiss against her cheek before lowering his mouth close to her ear.

"Happy birthday, Bunny." His voice was low, warm, and just for her.

"Thank you."

"You're welcome."

Annie loosened her grip around Elijah's neck and stepped back. She really took a look at the flowers in his hand. The giant bouquet was full of flowers in warm shades of cream, pink, and yellow.

"They're beautiful."

"Even more than you."

Annie sucked her teeth and lightly pushed his arm.

Elijah set the bouquet carefully in the center of the dining room table before placing the gift box directly in front of Annie. Her eyes dropped to it.

"Open it."

Annie looked up, "Right now?"

"You think I wrapped it up for tomorrow?" Elijah raised an eyebrow.

"Okay," she laughed.

Sliding into one of the dining room chairs, Annie carefully pulled the box closer. She untied the ribbon and lifted the lid. Inside there were two smaller boxes.

Elijah stood beside her chair with one hand resting against the back of it while the other settled on the edge of the table. He watched her with the kind of attention that made her feel like she was the only person in the room.

Annie reached for the smaller box and carefully opened it. Nestled against the soft velvet fabric was a beautiful pearl necklace. These weren't imitation pearls of costume jewelry, this was the real thing. The creamy white pearls glowed softly in the morning sunlight coming through the dining room windows.

Elijah watched Annie's face as she lifted the necklace up. The wonder in her eyes made the money spent well worth it.

She gently touched it with her fingertips then slowly looked up at him.

"You really bought this for me?"

"Bunny, who else would I buy it for?"

She shook her head in disbelief and looked back down at the necklace. It was far too beautiful and probably far too expensive. She placed the necklace back into the box before setting it down and reaching for the second one.

The second gift was a gorgeous pair of red heels. The color was rich and the leather was smooth. The heel wasn't too high, but it was just high enough.

She turned them around in her hands to admire every angle. They were exactly the kind of shoes she'd stop and admire in a store window but would never actually buy for herself.

Annie looked between the necklace and the shoes then back at him.

"You spent way too much money on me."

"It's your birthday and you're worth it," Elijah shrugged. "Do you like them?"

The warmth in her eyes answered before she could. Annie instantly nodded.

"I love them. Thank you," her voice came out way softer than she intended.

"You're welcome, Bunny."

He leaned down and his lips brushed against hers in a soft, sweet kiss. It made her smile before they even pulled away from each other.

When he did pull back, Annie frowned up at him.

"What?" he looked at her with slightly suspicious eyes.

"That's it? That's the only kiss I get on my birthday?"

His eyebrows rose up as he apologized, "I'm sorry. You want another one."

She nodded very seriously, "I do."

Elija leaned down again, but this kiss lasted a little longer than the last. The kiss still being very surface level, not wanting to go too far in the presence of her grandmother. It was more like a drawn out peck than anything.

When they pulled back for the second time, Annie smiled wide. Then, Elijah pulled out the chair beside Annie and sat down. Mama Nette came in from the kitchen carrying plates, the smell alone made Annie's stomach growl. That cinnamon roll had done little to help her hunger.

The plates were stacked with bacon, eggs, biscuits, grits, and fruit. It was more than enough food to feed three people. Elijah even helped to bring some of the plates into the dining room. Together they set everything on the table, then sat down.

For a while they simply ate with easy conversation flowing every now and then. Mama Nette would ask Elijah about work or Elijah asked Annie about the school. Mama Nette caught them up on the latest news she got from her older friends from all over the block.

After breakfast finally came to an end, Annie gathered up everyone's plates before either of them could stop her.

"Birthday girl ain't supposed to be cleaning," Elijah told her as she stacked dishes in her arms.

"And birthday girl don't want dishes sitting around all morning," Annie shot back.

Mama Nette waved her hand, "Let her do it. She hardheaded."

Annie rolled her eyes but couldn't stop grinning as she disappeared into the kitchen. A few minutes later she returned to the dining room with her hands freshly washed. The smile on her face faded away when she noticed Elijah standing up looking as if he was going to leave.

His jacket was in his hand and he looked suspiciously like a man preparing to leave.

"What you doing?"

Elijah looked over at her, "Going to work."

"What?" Annie stopped walking.

"I gotta go in for a little while."

Her face scrunched up and a pout appeared so quick, "But it's my birthday."

The words came out so dramatic that even Mama Nette rolled her eyes from her chair.

Elijah opened his mouth then immediately closed it because Annie's pout somehow got worse.

"Bunny."

"It's my birthday and you're leavin'." She walked across the room and grabbed his hand.

"I'm coming back. I'm only going in for a few hours. A car been givin' one of the boys trouble for some days now."

"So?" Annie let out a huff and narrowed her eyes.

"So I told him I'd help."

"But it's my birthday."

"You done said that four times," Elijah shook his head at how dramatic his woman could be.

He truly loved this woman. The longer they spent together the more she showed him parts of herself she kept hidden ffrom other people. Most people saw the sweet, patient, kind side of Annie. And she was still all of that, but he also got to see the stubborn, dramatic, and spoiled side of Annie. And he loved it.

"'Cause you keep ignorin' the important part of it being my birthday."

He stepped closer and gently squeezed her hand.

"I'll be back before your party."

"You promise?"

"I promise."

Annie looked unconvinced.

"Bunny."

She sighed dramatically, "Fine. But I'm still upset."

"I'll make it up to you."

"You better."

He leaned down and kissed her forehead, then her cheek, then finally her lips. The kisses were so gentle they made Annie forget what she was complaining about in the first place.

Finally, Annie walked him to the front door.

When they got outside, she grabbed his arm.

"You're really leaving me now?"

"Annette."

The use of her first name and not her nickname made Annie concede to him.

"This wasn't long enough."

"I'll see you later, baby. Calm down, okay?"

She sighed and let go of his arm. They stared at each other long enough for Annie to nod and step back.

Annie stood on the stoop and watched as he got in his car and drove away. Only then did she head back inside.

The moment she stepped into the living room Mama Nette looked up from her position on the couch.

"I'm bout sick of you and that man. Glad he had to leave for work or else y'all woulda been annoying me all damn day."

Annie frowned, "Mama, you always being mean to me. It's my birthday, leave us alone."

"Girl gone on."

Annie shook her head and headed upstairs. Once inside her room, she officially started getting ready for the day.

If she was being honest, she wasn't planning on sitting in the house until her party.

She opened her closet and looked through her dresses. After several minutes she finally settled on her favorite yellow one. The bright sunny color made her smile every time she wore it. The dress cinched perfectly at her waist before flaring out around her knees when she moved. The fitted bodice highlighted her lush curves beautifully, especially her chest, while the skirt gave her room to move comfortably.

It was feminine, bright, and fun. Which was exactly how she wanted to feel for the day.

She carefully did her hair, applied a little makeup, and added some perfume. Then stepped back from her mirror only to see that she was practically glowing.

Feeling pleased with herself, she headed downstairs to the phone. She wasn't spending the few hours she had before the party alone, especially after Elijah left her. So she called Monica first.

"Monica?"

"Hey birthday girl."

"Are you dressed?"

"Yes, but for what? The party's not till later."

"Not really thinkin' too mucha bout the party right now. I want to be out, so come get me."

"Fine, but you better be ready since you callin' tryin' to make all kinds of demands and things."

"I'm ready. You just come on."

After hanging up with Monica she called the rest of the group to inform them of her spontaneous plans for the day.

Since she had a little time before they arrived, she spent it putting on jewelry and fixing the tiny details.

Every few minutes she checked the clock, then the window, then the clock again. Eventually she heard a car horn outside and she nearly tripped herself by quickly stepping downstairs. She hurried out the front door to the familiar blue car that sat parked along the curb.

Monica was behind the wheel, Michelle sat in the passenger seat, and Lillian was in the back.

The second they spotted Annie coming down the walkway, all three women started hollering. Lillian even whistled out of the window.

Monica leaned halfway out the window.

"Oh you cute girl."

"Real cute," Michelle nodded approvingly.

Annie climbed into the car, and the second the door shut, Monica pulled away from the curb taking them to the direction of Annie's favorite dress shop.

They drove down to Pennsylvania Avenue. The city moving in streaks of color through the car windows as Monica navigated through traffic. The storefronts were getting more clustered and lively.

Eventually, Monica found a parking spot near a row of boutiques and eased the car to a stop. The dress shop was nestled between a salon and a small jewelry store. The windows of the shop were wide, displaying mannequins dressed in everything from elegant evening wear to casual day to day.

All four ladies got out at once, the sound of the car doors slamming blanding into the busy city noise around them. Annie smoothed her dress down as they walked up to the entrance.

The bell above the door chimed when they stepped inside. Cool air hit them, along with the faint smell of fabric, perfume, and polished wood floors.

Instantly, they all split up, taking different areas of the store to cover plenty of ground. Annie slowly wandered between racks of dresses, fingers brushing fabric as she passed. She was just lifting a pale blue dress off the rack when Monica’s voice cut through the aisle.

“So Annie, what you doing after the party?”

Annie’s eyebrows pulled together. “The party probably gone be going on late. I was just gonna go up to sleep after.”

Monica hummed like she didn’t believe her. She continued flipping through dresses without looking up.

“So you really don't have nothing planned,” she asked.

“No. Should I?” Annie frowned.

Monica finally glanced up for half a second, then went right back to the rack.

“I figured you and Elijah was gonna want some alone time.”

Annie blinked, “We saw each other this morning.”

“I’m already tired of talking in circles. You giving it up tonight?” Monica made a small sound, unimpressed.

Annie let out a breath that sounded half disbelief, half embarrassment. She turned away, grabbing another dress off the rack like she suddenly needed something to do with her hands.

“No, I'm still not doing any of that tonight,” she said finally.

Monica’s head tilted slightly. “And why not?”

"Because I don't want to," Annie's grip tightened on the hanger.

“But y'all have been together for a long while now,” Lillian slid in.

Annie shook her head quickly, “It ain't been that long. It's barely been a month since we made it official.”

“Y'all leave her alone. If she says she ain't ready, she ain't ready,” Michelle stepped in calmly.

Monica exhaled through her nose like she was holding back something more blunt. “I’m just saying, Annie been saying she not ready for years.”

“Some people waiting ain't a crime. I waited till I married Tommy,” Michelle cut her eyes at Monica.

“That’s different. You and Tommy been together since y'all were sixteen and got married a few years later. Annie over here almost thirty and still ain’t even rub one out go—”

“Monica,” Annie said sharply. She looked around, lowering her voice even more, “Can we stop talking about this?”

Monica held her gaze for a second, then nodded once, “Alright, I’ll let it go.”

Annie exhaled. “Thank you.”

“Mhm.”

The tension eased just slightly as they all went back to browsing, the moment settling into awkward quiet. Annie tried to focus on the dresses again, brushing through fabrics with slower hands now, her earlier excitement dulled by the conversation.

Across the aisle, Michelle’s voice suddenly lifted.

“Look at what I found.”

All three turned to look at her to see Michelle was holding up a dress from the rack, stepping back so they could see it better.

The dress was gorgeous. It was a rich deep red that caught the eye without being overly flashy. The sleeves stopped just above the elbows, while the skirt flowed outward in a soft swing shape that would move beautifully whenever she walked or danced. The hem hit a few inches above the knee.

But what really caught Annie's attention was the neckline. The curve dipped lower than anything she normally wore. It was just enough to highlight her chest and collarbone.

Michelle grinned at her, "What you think?"

"I think I know exactly what to wear with this," Annie reached out and touched the fabric.

A short while later the dress was purchased, neatly folded into a large shopping bag, and the four women were heading back toward Monica's car. Once everyone climbed inside, Monica started the engine.

Everyone had reached the point where shopping had turned into hunger.

They pulled away from the curb and headed down the street. They'd only been driving a few minutes when Annie spotted realized they were heading down the same street that her uncle's garage was on.

"Can we stop up here for a while?"

All the ladies followed her finger that was pointing up the street to Ray's garage. When they realized where and why she was pointing, Lillian groaned.

"You're gonna see that man in a few hours."

"And it's my birthday," Annie said.

Lillian shook her head, but eventually the women gave in. Mostly because they knew Annie would be insufferable otherwise.

Monica turned into the lot and parked near the front of the garage. Annie got out of the car and was instantly greeted with the sounds of tools clanking and men talking. The smell of oil and grease was prominent in the air. The large doors were wide open, and a few cars filled the different bays.

When she actually stepped inside and people spotted her they greeted her happily. A whistle from somewhere deeper in the garage sounded out as they all wished her happy birthday.

She kept going until she spotted Ray near one of the lifts.

"Uncle Ray!"

Ray looked up and the second he saw her his face lit up, "Well look at my birthday girl."

Annie smiled and walked over. Once she reached him, Ray wrapped her up in a tight hug.

"Happy birthday, Sweet Pea."

"Thank you, Uncle Ray."

When he pulled away he looked her over and his eyebrows rose.

"You look beautiful today."

"Thank you," Then she tilted her head. "You still coming tonight?"

"Of course I'm coming," Ray looked offended.

"I was just asking," she laughed

"I'm getting there right when it starts. I gotta make sure the shop gets closed up right. Clara should already be over at the house helping you grandmother and them set everything up."

Annie nodded as her eyes drifted around without meaning too. After several seconds Annie casually asked, "So...where's Elijah?"

Ray's face went stoic at the mention of his employee, "He in the back taking a break.

She tried to keep her face neutral, "Okay, I'll go talk to him for a little while. I'll see you later."

"Alright, Sweet Pea."

She turned and headed toward the back of the garage where the small break room was tucked away behind the amin work area. The further she walked, the quieter it became. She reached the doorway then carefully peeked inside.

Elijah was sitting at a small table against the wall, leaning back in his chair while eating a sandwich and drinking from a bottle of soda. His work shirt sleeves were rolled up to his forearms and there were faint grease stains across his shirt from the day. He looked tired from working since leaving her house earlier that morning.

He looked up to see her standing in the doorway. His entire face changed and his eyebrows shot up.

"Bunny?"

"Hi."

For a moment he just stared at her because he genuinely hadn't expected to see her until later that night. A slight slow smile spread across his face.

"Now what you doin' here?" He set his sandwich down and wiped his hands with a rag before holding one hand out toward her. "C'mere."

Annie didn't need to be told twice. She walked across the room and slipped her hand into his. His fingers immediately closed around hers.

"I thought you would be out having some birthday fun before your party."

"I am."

"Mm," He squeezed her hand. "Then why you down here botherin' hardworking people?"

Annie laughed.

"Me and the girls were just passing by. They're out there waitin' in the car."

Elijah's eyes slowly traveled over her, lingering on the way the dress perfectly cinched her waist before flowing over the curve of her hips. The skirt of it flared out around her knees, and his gaze found its way back to her face.

"You look absolutely gorgeous."

"Thank you."

Elijah kept holding her hand. Neither one seemed particularly interested in letting go. And for a few moments they simply looked at each other in a comfortable silence.

Then Annie glanced down to the chair, and more specifically Elijah's lap. Her eyes flicked back up to him then down again.

Elijah followed her gaze and quickly understood what she wanting.

Annie smoothed her hands over the front of her dress almost like she was prepapring herself to sit.

"Hold on. I don't want to ruin your pretty birthday dress."

Before she could argue, he leaned over and grabbed an old clean towel from the table beside him. He unfolded and spread it across his lap.

"Alright, come on."

Annie's smile brightened.

It was such a little thing, but it was exactly the kind of thing Elijah always did. He was always trying to take care of her even in situations where she didn't think it mattered.

She smoothed her dress one more time before easing down on his lap.

Elijah adjusted himself to make sure she was comfortable. His arm hovered behind her to keep her steady while trying not to touch her.

But Annie noticed and she didn't quite like it.

"You know you can touch me, right?"

"Can't. My hands too dirty."

Annie rolled her eyes and settled against him anyway.

"What were y'all doin' on this side of town anyway?" He finally asked.

"We were goin' shopping."

"Y'all always shoppin'. What you was lookin' for?"

"The dress for my party."

"You ain't wearing this one?" His eyebrows lifted.

"This ain't no party dress, Elijah."

"Could've fooled me."

"Well it ain't"

He hummed.

His eyes slowly moved over her for the third time. He was taking her all in, from the weight of her body in his lap to the way her chest rose and fell with each breath. Elijah slightly shifted his legs as he tried to think about anything other than what it would feel like to have her sit on him in other ways.

Annie felt herself getting warm from his stare.

"Stop looking at me like that."

He cleared his throat as he looked away.

"So what dress you get?"

"A pretty red one that I can wear with my new birthday gifts."

Annie reached over and unconciously straightened the collar of his work shirt.

Elijah watched her do it. His heart doing funny flips in his chest.

"I can't wait to see it."

Annie felt her cheeks warm as butterflies exploded in her stomach. After another few minutes she glanced toward the door.

"I should probably go. My friends are waitin' for me."

Elijah sighed.

"Elijah."

"Bunny."

Eventually she stood and he stood right after her. They walked back through the garage together with Elijah staying close behind her.

The closer they got to the front, her smile grew. When they reached Monica's car, Annie felt refreshed and happy. She was practically glowing.

Elijah opened the car door for her. Annie smiled up at him before climbing inside.

The other three women looked at him with smirks on their faces.

"Hey Elijah," they practically called at the same time.

"Afternoon ladies," He looked back at Annie. "I'll see you tonight."

She nodded.

Then Elijah leaned into the car, only planning to give her one quick kiss as a goodbye. heir lips met softly, but when he started pulling away, Annie grabbed his shirt. She leaned forward and kissed him again, holding it a little longer this time.

Elijah let out the tiniest chuckle against her lips before returning the kiss. Annie looked entirely too pleased with herself when they separated.

"See you tonight, Bunny," Elijah shook his head, then shut he door.

Monica cranked the engine and the second the car started moving she looked at Annie in the mirror, "Ain't ready yet my ass."

After leaving the garage, the four women went and got lunch. They spent nearly two hours sitting in a little restaurant laughing and talking. Once they were finished eating, they headed back to Annie's neighborhood for the party.

People were moving around everywhere when they pulled up in front of the house. Her uncle Marcus was carrying a table with Christian helping him. Marcus's girlfriend was arranging decorations on one of the tables. People moved in and out of the house carrying things.

Ever since she was a little girl every year was the same. Her birthday had always been some type of celebration. Sometimes it would only be family, sometimes, family and friends, and even a few times, like this year, the whole neighborhood would come together.

The second Annie climbed out of the car, she heard the calls from several people.

"The birthday girl finally decided to come help?"

Annie laughed as she moved to help someone with a box of things.

For the next couple of hours she worked right alongside everybody else, helping to put things together. She carried things back and forth until her feet started hurting. Eventually her grandmother sent her on to get ready for the night.

She spent time getting ready. She first ran herself a bath, the warm water helped soothe her aching feet after she had been running around all afternoon and morning. Afterward, she dried off and got dressed.

The red dress fit her perfectly. It hugged her waist before flaring outward. The color made her skin glow.

Once she finished getting dressed she proceeded to do her makeup lightly. Then she touched up her hair, making sure her curls fell just right. She put on her new pearl necklace and the matching earrings. Then she slipped into the newly gifted red heels.

She looked absolutely radiant.

The party had just started, so she could hear the sound of music drifted through her bedroom window.

As she headed down the stairs she found Mama Nette standing in the hallway waiting.

The older woman turned and looked her up and down. She put her hands on her hips and shook her head.

"Now look at you little Miss hot thing."

Annie chuckled and wrapped her arms around the older woman. Her grandmother hugged her back tightly. They pulled back and headed for the front door, where the music was louder.

When Annie stepped outside, the street exploded with dozens of cheers and voices screaming happy birthday. The entire street was packed from corner to corner with family, friends, neighbors, church members, and even people she didn't quite know that well.

Annie was just smiling at all of the praise. She waved, thanking everyone as she started down the stoop stairs.

And waiting at he bottom of the stairs was her man. His hand extended out to her, eyes locked on her. Annie bit her lip to hold back the even larger smile that was threatening to take over her face.

"Thank you, baby."

She placed her hand in his and he helped her down, making sure her heels didn't catch on anything. He held on even as her feet touched the sidewalk.

His eyes traveled over the pearls, the dress, the heels, then back to her face.

"Good Lord woman. You are the most beautiful woman I ever seen in my life."

Her face softened.

"You like it?"

"Woman don't you ever ask me nothing like that," he genuinely looked offended.

Before she could respond, Elijah leaned in and their lips met. When they pulled back from each other, Annie squeezed his hand.

"I gotta go speak to people."

He nodded so she started to walk away, but he followed.

Annie spent half an hour making her way through the crowd. Every few feet somebody stopped her to talk. When she was finished with one conversation, someone else wanted to start another.

The entire time Elijah stayed close by with one hand tucked into his pocket while the other occasionally rested against the small of her back whenever things got a little too crowded.

Annie introduced him to so many people she couldn't even keep track. Each introduction did something to Elijah. They made his chest puff up in pride. Even though his face didn't show it, his body language proved that he loved every part of it.

At one point they stopped by a group from church and the ladies were fussing over Annie's dress. Then they started fussing over Elijah and the two of them. They started talking about how they hadn't seen much of the two in the last few weeks. Elijah let Annie do most of the talking, not wanting to say the wrong thing to the older women. He never cared about what the peopl of the church said when it concerned him and Annie, but Annie always had the right words to settle anything that did come up.

Just like how she managed to smoothly change the topic when one of the women brough up marriage and children. The women had no boundaries. Eventually they escaped before the ladies could get any more ideas.

As they went back to wandering through the crowd, Annie spotted her grandmother sitting in a shaded area underneath a big tree. Several older men and women from the neighborhood sat around her in chairs.

Elijah followed her toward the table. As they approached the area, Mama Nette calmed her laughing and waved them closer.

"Good, y'all made y'all way over here. Come here Annie."

That tone made Annie instantly suspicious.

The older woman reached beside her chair and grabbed a cup. It was filled a little over halfway with a clear liquid. And by the way the smell hit her, Annie knew wha it was.

"Mama, I don't want that." Annie's face scrunched up.

"You better take this cup 'cause I ain't raise you to be no pussy cat."

Annie reluctantly accepted the cup and with the ligquid being so close the smell got even stronger. Her head jerked back as the scent practically smacked her in the face.

"It stinks."

The old folks laughed hard.

"Well, it ain't supposed to smell pretty. That's how you know it's that good shine," The older woman turned toward Elijah. "You make sure she drinks all that."

Elijah looked down at the cup then back at Annie. His eyebrows slowly lifted as he realized how strong it probably was. At that moment, he understood Annie's reaction.

Mama Nette lifted her own cup.

"You want some?" Mama Nette lifted her cup.

Elijah shook his head, "No ma'am."

"You sure?"

"Yes ma'am."

The entire table laughed at the look on his face. He looked like a man that wanted no parts of whatever she had given Annie.

Annie took the tiniest sip imaginable, and her entire face twisted up at the taste. She stuck her tongue out in disgust. She looked absolutely horrified.

"How y'all even drinking this mess?"

Mama Nette waved her hand.

"How 'bout you just keep on drinking."

Annie stared at her grandmother for a bit, then turned to Elijah. She grabbed his arm and pulled him away knowing that if they stayed any longer she would be two cups deep.

The party went on as the sun disappeared, leaving the street lit only by porch lights, strings of hanging bulbs, and the occasional headlights from cars parked along the curb.

Any children that were there had been rounded up and sent home. Now it was just the adults. People were dancing and laughing joyfully in the middle of the street.

At some point her friends had managed to corner her near the food tables during one of the moments where her and Elijah were separated. Their conversation quickly turned into a drinking competition. They forced her to finish the cup of mooshine, and then gave another cup of something else.

And now, hours later, Annie was definitely feeling it. Her body was warm and everything seemed funnier than normal. She felt absolutely wonderful.

Elijah noticed this change in her a while ago and hadn't left her side. One of his hands remained firmly planted against the middle of her back as they moved through the crowd. He wanted to make sure she was steady in those pretty new heels of hers.

Annie took a sip from another cup of liquor and Elijah looked over at her.

"Bunny."

She looked at him so innocently, "Hm?"

"You need to slow down."

"What for? I'm fine."

"I'm serious. That stuff's strong," Elijah didn't look too convinced.

"I promise that I'm alright."

But before he could say anything else, the song ended and rolled over into the next one. The crowd cheered as the singer started performing My Babe by Little Walter.

Annie's face lit up and before Elijah knew what was happening, she grabbed his hand and was pulling him toward the middle of the street.

"Bunny—"

"I wanna dance, Elijah."

The crowd parted enough to let them through. Annie stopped them right in the middle of the moving crowd. She wrapped her arms around Elijah's neck pulling him close to her.

The movement caught Elijah slightly off guard. He knew she'd had a good amount to drink but he didn't think she'd had enough to make her this loose. So instead of wrapping his arms around her, he hesitated. And of course Annie noticed.

Her eyes narrowed as she grabbed both of his hands and pulled back from him.

"You don't wanna dance with me?"

The confusion in her voice made Elijah's eyebrows rise.

"I ain't say that," He genuinely looked surprised. "I wanna do whatever you wanna do."

"Then why ain't you touchin' me?" She tilted her head. "You scared or somethin'?"

"Naw, I ain't scared," Elijah grumbled.

"Then what is it?"

"Tonight just a little different is all," Elijah glanced down at the cup in her hand then back up at her. "You been drinkin' a lot and you not actin' like yourself."

Annie stared at him for a second, then lifted her cup in the air for emphasis, "All 'cause of this?"

Elijah looked at her and nodded.

Without warning she tipped her head back and finished the rest. She made a face as the good bit of the liquid that was left burned on it's way down. She handed the now empty cup off to a random man that was walking past.

Annie turned back to Elijah with her arms out, "See, no more drink. I'm just fine."

Then she stepped forward and reached for his hands. She guided them to her waist, and pressed them firmly against her. She moved close until there was no space left between them. She smiled triumphantly at their position.

The singer's voice drifted through the air and the crowd moved around them. People were dancing smoothly to the music. But all Elijah saw was her. Happiness was written all over her face and stamped into her body.

He finally relaxed and wrapped his arms around her properly. One hand settled against the middle of her back and the other rested at her waist. A slight smile graced his face as they started to sway to the beat of the song.

The music rolled from one song to the next as they stayed in each other's embrace. And for a while Annie had been dancing and singing along normally to the songs. She laughed whenever Elijah spun her around, waved at people passing by, and stopped every now and then to hug somebody who wanted to tell her happy birthday. But as the night wore on, Elijah could see the moonshine catching up to her.

Her movements became slower, her words became fewer, and every time Elijah looked into her eyes they were glassier than before. She was more affectionate and clingy. Whenever they danced she seemed determined to stay as close to him as possible. Every time he tried to give her some space she'd somehow end up right back against him.

She would giggle at things that weren't particularly funny. Then she started staring at him for long stretches of time.

Elijah rubbed his hand up and down her back, "Bunny?"

"Hm?" she had the happiest little smile on her face.

"You wanna sit down for a while?"

Annie blinked at him clearly trying to process the question.

"What?"

"I asked if you wanna sit down for a little?"

She tilted her head, "...Maybe."

Before he could convince her to take a break, a familiar voice called out. Elijah turned to see Michelle, Tommy, and Lillian approaching them. Michelle had two small plastic cups in her hand.

"We about to take some shots. You want one?"

Annie nodded immediately. Her head going a little too enthusiastically, "Mmhm."

Elijah's eyes narrowed as he watched the exchange. The look on his face practically screamed 'hell no'. Before Annie could grab it, Elijah reached over took the cup himself.

"She don't need anymore."

Annie frowned.

"I can drink it."

"Bunny."

"I can."

Tommy shook his head as he watched Annie sway where she stood.

Annie reached around Elijah and managed to grab the cup from his hands. And to her surprise no one stopped her.

Elijah was still eyeing her, "I don't think you should drink anymore, tonight."

"I think I should."

The stubbornness in her voice sounded exactly like sober Annie. The difference was sober Annie usually stood upright while arguing. Drunk Annie was currently leaning halfway into him.

Elijah sighed.

Michelle handed another cup to Lillian and the women gathered together. All three of them lifted their cups. They cheersed as they clinked their cups together. Then they drank them. Annie squeezed her eyes shut at the taste.

Elijah rubbed a hand down his face. At least she hadn't gotten another full cup.

A few seconds later Tommy checked his watch, then wrapped an arm around Michelle's shoulders.

"We finna head out."

Michelle nodded.

Elijah looked over and nodded his head at Lillian, "How they getting home?"

"CJ driving her and Monica in Monica's car."

Elijah nodded, "Alright."

Everybody said their goodbyes and last happy birthdays. Then they headed toward their cars.

The party continued on around them. Someone had started another card game near one of the tables. A group of older women were singing loudly from their folding chairs.

But Annie was officially beyond drunk now. And that was emphasized by the way she was standing there staring directly at his face for no reason.

"Bunny, why you looking at me like that?"

"You just so pretty," Annie smiled dreamily. "You got real pretty eyes."

"See that's enough we sitting down," she didn't argue when he grabbed her hand which worried him just a bit because Annie always argued. Instead she just smiled and followed him willingly while he guided her toward the outer edges of the party.

Elijah led them back over to the large tree that her grandmother was sitting under. He helped her down into an empty chair next to the older woman.

The party was starting to thin out considerably. A few people were still dancing, sitting around, talking, and playing cards, but most of the people were gone for the night.

Annie practically melted into Elijah the second she sat down. Her head leaned against his side and one of her hands gripped tightly onto the fabric of his shirt. Elijah put an arm around her shoulders to steady her. Annie hummed happily.

Mama Nette watched the pair over the rim of her cup. She shook her head at how drunk the younger woman was.

"It'd probably be best if she head on upstairs," she stated after taking a sip from her cup.

Elijah looked down at Annie to see she was struggling to stay awake. Every few seconds she would blink slower and slower. Then she'd catch herself. He gently pushed some fallen hair back from her face.

"Bunny, I'm gonna take you upstairs so you can get in bed."

Annie stared at him.

"Okay."

The response came so easily Elijah knew she was exhausted. She let him help her up., and he steadied her when she wobbled on her feet.

She giggled at herself just then, "I almost fell."

"I see."

He put an arm around her waist and she clung to him instantly. He led her toward the house which was luckily only a few feet away.

Some people nearby called out variations of goodnight and happy birthday as they passed by. Annie waved and thanked them lazily as she gripped Elijah's shirt.

They traveled up the stoop stairs one at a time. Which was a challenge in itself. Once inside the house was far more quiet than outside, and for that Elijah was grateful. The trip upstairs took even longer than the one to get into the house. She stumbled every few steps and would grab his arms to stablize herself.

By the time they reached her bedroom she was yawning and dragging her feet. Elijah opened the door and led her inside. He helped her sit on the edge of the bed and steadied her shoulders as she swayed. Elijah crouched in front of her, keeping a hand on her thigh.

"Where your pajamas at?"

Annie pointed vaguely toward her dresser, "In there."

"Which drawer?"

"The middle one."

He opened it and was welcomed with the sight of several neatly folded nightgowns. He didn't linger too long and grabbed one. When he turned back around Annie was rubbing her eyes.

"Bunny, is it okay if I help you?"

She nodded, "Yes."

He crouched in front of her and carefully unbuckled her heels. He set them neatly beside the bed. Then he removed her pearl necklace and earrings, setting them onto her dresser so she wouldn't miss them.

Elijah stood awkwardly.

"Can I unzip your dress?"

Annie nodded, "You can, but close your eyes."

"Alright."

Annie seemed satisifed as he shut his eyes.

Using only touch, he carefully found the zipper and lowered it.

Annie concentrated very hard on helping herself get out of the dress. Which mostly consisted of getting tangled for a minute.

When they got her party dress off, he helped her get the nightgown over her head. The process took longer than it should have because Annie kept getting distracted.

"You can open 'em now."

Elijah opened his eyes.

Annie was sitting there in her nightgown looking entirely pleased with herself.

He shook his head.

Then helped her get onto the bed properly and underneath the covers. Within seconds, she looked halfway asleep. She let out a sigh as he pulled the blanket even farther up on her.

"Did you have fun today?"

"It was the best. Especially with you here."

Elijah sat beside the bed, "I'm glad."

"Thank you," she smiled sleepily.

"You ain't gotta thank me."

"I do."

Elijah chuckled, "Even drunk you so hardheaded. "

Annie smiled proudly.

A few seconds passed. Then she opened one eye.

"Baby?"

"Yeah?"

"Can I have a kiss?"

He leaned down and pressed a gentle kiss against her lips. When he pulled away she looked absolutely content. Within seconds her eyes drifted closed again.

"Goodnight, Bunny."

"Mhm."

It was barely a response because she was already asleep.

Elijah stood quietly, looked at her one last time, then slipped from the room.

October 31st, 1958

The group of children hurried down the sidewalk with their candy bags bouncing against their legs.

"Thank you, Miss Annie!"

"Happy Halloween, y'all! Be careful going down these streets!"

Annie waved at them until they were out of sight.

The whole neighborhood was alive tonight. Children ran up and down the sidewalks and jack-o'-lanterns glowed from stoops. Somewhere down the street somebody had a radio playing old blues music.

While outside was lively, inside was just as loud. Every few seconds Elijah and Annie heard laughter drift through the open window. It was one of Mama Nette's many card game nights, and everyone was ready to gamble their money. Annie could hear her grandmother cursing someone as the sounds of smacks hit the table.

Elijah sat beside her on the stoop with his elbows rested on his knees as he watched her. Which was something he had been doing all night. And every time Annie turned around she found him looking at her.

"What?"

"Nothin'."

"You keep starin' at me."

"'Cause you pretty," he shrugged.

"Boy," Annie rolled her eyes.

"I'm serious."

Heat crept onto her cheeks anyway. She turned away before he could see how much she liked hearing it.

The candy bowl sat in her lap and she absentmindedly sorted through it while they waited for the next group of trick-or-treaters.

After a few moments Elijah spoke again.

"You really good with kids, you know that?"

"I just really like 'em," Annie looked over and smiled at him.

"I can tell. That's probably what make you such a good teacher, huh?"

Annie looked down at the candy bowl for a moment to think, "Maybe."

"Why'd you wanna become a teacher anyway?"

"I don't know. I think I always liked helping people," she leaned back a bit while fiddling with the candy pieces. "When I was little I thought about being a nurse. But then I thought about all the blood I would have to see."

She immediately made a face while Elijah let out a soft smile.

"I can handle scraped knees and little cuts. But anything else I'd rather not. No, thank you," her eyes passed over the busy street. "Besides, everybody always told me I was good with kids. I guess teaching just made sense. I like watchin' 'em learn things."

"Yeah?"

She nodded, "When they finally understand somethin' they been struggling with, it makes me happy."

Elijah found himself smiling a bit more too. That sounded exactly like Annie. She always found joy in helping somebody else, wanting everyone around to be happy, and giving pieces of herself away. After a few moments he nodded.

"I get it," his eyes drifted to the street with a far away look in his eye. "I always felt like I needed to take of somebody. Growing up it was really just me and Stack. And Stack was always gettin' into somethin'. There wasn't nobody that was gone take care of us. My mama died after she had us and my pops wasn't worth a damn. He did a lotta messed up shit to us. More Stack than me. He drank too much, gambled, and was a mean son of a bitch."

Annie immediately grew quiet. She hadn't known any of this. She knew bits and pieces about Elijah's life, but there were still huge parts of his life that she'd never heard. Like the things that happened before he joined the military.

"He'd always tell us we wasn't men. Which was some funny thing to say to a couple of boys. There were times we ain't know where our next meal was coming from. We were doin' whatever we could to survive. And as we got older it got worse. That's part of why we joined the army. We thought if we learned how to survive nobody could ever make us feel helpless again."

Elijah looked at her. Like really looked at her. The streetlamp illuminated her face, her large round brown eyes glowed with softness. She had compassion and understanding all over her face. Nobody had ever looked at him the way Annie did. Most people were either scared or full of pity knowing their background. But she looked at him as just Elijah.

Then Annie quietly asked, "Did it work?"

Elijah stared at her. The question caught him slightly off guard.

He thought about the nightmares, the injuries, the men he'd lost, and the years he'd spent feeling empty. But the more he thought the more it led him to the present of sitting on this stoop, feeling more at peace than he had in years.

A slow smile appeared, "A little."

Annie smiled back. Then another group of children appeared. She passed out the candy and told the children how cute they looked.

Another group of trick-or-treaters came and went before the conversation picked back up.

Annie settled back into her spot on the stoop, pulling her cardigan a little tighter around herself against the cool October air.

Elijah glanced over at her.

"I know we mentioned it, but you really do want kids?"

"Of course I do."

"I don't know. Some women say they want kids then end up changin' they mind."

Annie shook her head, "No. I defintely want babies. I always thought about being somebody's mama someday."

"And only three?"

"Yes," She huffed dramatically. "My grandmother had six children. I don't think I got six babies in me. Carrying a baby is a lot on the body. Your feet swell, back aches, and you just uncomfortable all the time. Then you gotta push the little sucka out."

"Well, you know twins run in my family," Elijah said it so casually.

Annie slowly turned her head to him, "And what's that supposed to mean?"

"I'm just sayin'."

"Sayin' what?"

"What if you have twins," He continued. "What if we have kids and the first time you pop out two babies at once?"

Annie looked at the street like she was genuinely considering it.

"I guess I'd cry."

"Why?"

"Because that's just too much," Annie thought for a second. "But I think I would still want to have another, so maybe four."

"Good."

Annie furrowed her brows and tilted her head.

"You awfully invested in this 'what-if' family."

"'Cause it's my family."

One of Annie's eyebrows slowly lifted.

"And what makes you so sure I'm havin' kids with you?"

Elijah turned to look at her with the driest most unimpressed look on his face. It was so serious it made her laugh. He was looking at her as if she had just asked the dumbest question he'd ever heard.

"Stop playin' with me, Annette."

Annie let out a few more chuckles then leaned her head against his shoulder.

"Okay, okay. I'm sorry, baby."

He narrowed his eyes, "You should be."

She laughed again.

A comfortable silence settled between them. The sounds of Halloween filled the silence.

Annie looked out at the glowing jack-o'-lanterns across the street. Then softly said, "I guess we'll just have to wait and see."

Elijah looked down at her to see a small smile on her face. And despite himself, he smiled too, "Yeah, we will."

The next group of trick-or-treaters came up the walkway before either of them could say anything else. It was a little boy with his younger sister who was too shy to do anything other than hide behind his leg.

"Well look at y'all!"

The boy grinned up at Annie while holding out both of their bags. Annie crouched down and handed them each a handful of candy.

"Y'all be safe now."

The little ghost nodded seriously, "Yes ma'am!"

Annie nearly melted right there on the stoop.

The children hurried away, their parents calling after them from the sidewalk. Once they disappeared down the street, Annie sat back down beside Elijah.

The candy bowl was getting noticeably lighter and the night was growing colder too. Most of the younger kids had started to head home. Soon it would just be teenagers trying to squeeze out a few extra pieces of candy.

"Thanksgiving coming up. You got any plans?"

Elijah glanced over. He thought about it for a moment, then shrugged.

"Never really had a reason to. I usually work or stay home."

"On Thanksgiving?" Annie frowned. "You can't do that."

"Why not? Been doing it for years."

"Well not this year. 'Cause you got plans now."

"Oh I do?"

"Yes sir. I'm invitin' you over for Thanksgiving," she looked at him with such seriousness. "We usually go back home, but this year everybody's comin' here."

Elijah was quiet at the statement. He didn't know how to take it. He wasn't necessarily nervous to meet the rest of Annie's family, he just didn't know what to expect.

Annie noticed Elijah's silence, and even though she was used to the quiet from him there seemed to be something else in it. She instantly recgonized what it was.

"You'll be fine, baby. I promise. My family can be a bit opinionated and ask too many questions, but they're good people. And think about it this way, Mama likes you. So they got no choice but to respect that."

"Yeah, we'll see."

Elijah looked back out to the street while trying not to think about all the reasons why Annie's family wouldn't like him.

The Week of Thanksgiving, 1958

Annie had spent the entirety of Tuesday morning being passed between family members. The second she'd walked into Ray's house she'd been grabbed into three different hugs before she'd even gotten through the front door good.

Now she was tucked away in the den with all of her girl cousins.

The television was on low in the background, a baby blanket was spread over one couch, shopping bags in the corner, and half-finished cups of tea on side tables. The room smelled faintly like baby powder and perfume.

Annie sat curled into the corner of one of the larger couches with eight-month-old Olivia balanced happily in her lap.

Olivia tried to reach for Annie's necklace, but she gently caught the baby's hand. Olivia giggled at the face Annie made. The sound made everyone smile.

Rosette, Annie's youngest girl cousin and Olivia's mother, shook her head from her spot across the room, "All these babies love Annie so much, they forget they got a mama."

Olivia immediately proved the point by stretching both arms toward Annie's face and squealed.

Victoria, Annie's oldest girl cousin, looked over from where she was stretched across an armchair, "It's 'cause she spoil 'em."

"I do not," Annie gasped.

"You absolutely do."

Annie rolled her eyes.

Olivia had somehow managed to grab a fistful of her curls. Annie carefully untangled the tiny fingers.

"Y'all are mean."

"No. You just hate us being honest," Victoria smirked.

Annie stuck her tongue out.

Victoria looked at her and shook her head, "Twenty-six years old and still act eight."

Victoria had always been this way with Annie. Being almost five years older than her, Victoria spent most of their childhood watching out for her younger cousin. She always joked about how Annie was her first baby long before she even had jeremy.

Annie learned so many things because of Victoria. She learned how to braid hair, learned how to do her makeup, learned how to drive, and learned what she did know about boys because of her.

Most of the things Annie knew about being a grown woman had come from sitting at Victoria's feet growing up. Which was exactly why she always listened when Victoria spoke.

"Anyways, I heard some things about you, Annette," Rosette's voice was teasing. "Mama Nette told Mama that you seeing somebody. When exactly were you plannin' on tellin' us?"

Annie sighed so dramatically before saying, "I was waiting."

"Waiting for what?" Victoria spoke up.

Annie opened her mouth then immediately closed it because she didn't actually know.

The women laughed at her facial expression. Even Olivia started laughing despite having absolutely no idea what was happening. Annie kissed the baby's chubby cheek.

"So when we meeting him?" Rosette asked.

"Thursday," Annie absentmindedly bounced Olivia.

The room got quieter as every woman exchanged a look.

"On Thanksgiving?" Esther, her cousin William Jr's wife, asked.

Annie nodded.

"Sounds like it's getting pretty serious," Thelma, her cousin Johnathon's fiancée, said in agreement.

"I guess," Annie shrugged her shoudlers.

"What does 'I guess' mean?" Victoria stared at her.

Annie sighed.

For the next twenty minutes she found herself answering question after question. Like how old was he, what did he do, was. henice, and was he handsome. The women were like sharks who smelled spilled blood.

Eventually Esther tilted her head, ready to ask the question that nobody else seemed to want to ask, "So, have you lost your virginity yet?"

It was quiet except for the sounds of Annie choking. The quietness lingered until Annie finally mumbled, "No."

Victoria spoke in a soft voice, "That's perfectly fine. You do that when you ready, ain't no rush."

Annie relaxed slightly as she stared down at Olivia, "I think...I think I want to."

That surprised even her. The words had come out before she'd really thought about them.

Annie rubbed Olivia's tiny back.

"I don't know," she laughed nervously. "It's weird."

"How?" Rosette asked gently.

"It's like…" Annie searched for the words. "I feel a way I never felt before. I'm comfortable now, but I still don't know how ready I am."

Rosette smiled.

"Then don't worry about it. When we meet him we'll let you know," Rosette smiled. "We'll figure him out."

Olivia yawned against Annie's chest. She smiled and kissed her forehead.

The rest of the afernoon went on with them all talking and laughing like they normally do when they all got together. Every now and then, one of the children would run into the room to ask a question or because they needed something.

After hours of family time, Annie felt worn out and ready to head home. They all said their brief goodbyes and headed their separate ways.

When Annie got back home, the noise of family didn't settle. In fact it only stayed with her.

Her Aunt Clarisse, Rosette, Olivia, and Rosette's husband Lance, were staying at her home. Though it wasn't that many extra people, Annie and Mama Nette were used to it being just the two of them. Now, the house was filled with constant noise of footsteps and a baby.

Annie stood in the foyer for a second as everyone moved around her. It was then that she decided that she didn't want to be there.

She headed up the stairs to her room. It seemed to be the only place that hadn't been overtaken by family. The silence that followed with the door closing made Annie sigh. She loved her family, but she needed a little break.

Annie walked over to her dresser and started pulling things out like a nightgown, three dresses, her hair scarf, a toothbrush, and a few other things. It was just enough for the night, and maybe another. She shoved it all into a small bag.

She went back downstairs, trying to speed past her nosey family members. But it was just her luck that she ran right into her grandmother. The older woman got one good look at the bag and made a humming sound.

"You not gone be late are you?"

"No ma'am. I promise," Annie kissed her grandmother's cheek.

She gripped her bag tight and headed out the door before anyone else could stop her.

By the time she pulled up to Elijah's apartment building, the sun was starting to set. She headed to the door and knocked only twice. A few seconds later the door opened, and Elijah stood there looking genuinely confused.

"Bunny? What you doing here?"

Annie held up the bag.

"It's too many people at my house and I figured you wouldn't mind me stayin' for a while."

Annie stepped inside as soon as he moved aside.

"No I don't," he said as he shut the door behind her.

Elijah took the bag from her shoulder and carried to the bedroom.

Annie felt herself relax at how quiet the apartment was.

When he came back, she was stretched across his couch with her shoes kicked off and head rested against the cushion. He sat beside her with one arm stretched across the back of the couch. She sat up and scooted as close as possible.

"How's your family doing Bunny? I'm sure you missed them."

Annie started telling him everything about her family. All the old things and the new ones. Like how big the children have gotten, or the new jobs and houses her cousins have, or how her Aunt Clarisse's shop is doing back home.

Every few minutes Elijah would hum, nod, or ask a question, but mostly he listened. Which was one of Annie's favorite things about him. He always listened, and hours later he could repeat the entire conversation back to her.

Eventually Annie's voice softened, and the nonstop faded away. The exhaustion of the day finally caught up to her. He wrapped an arm around her, thumb gently rubbing her arm.

The rest of the evening passed with the television taking place of their conversation. The apartment had beco e warm and quiet as the hours passed by.

Eventually Annie glanced toward the clock, and realized how late it had gotten.

"It's so late. I need to get ready for bed," Annie stood and smoothed down her skirt. "I'll be right back."

Elijah nodded, "Okay."

She grabbed her bag and disappeared into the bathroom.

The second the door shut she leaned against it and sighed. Her nerves were slowly starting to catch up with her. This was just Elijah. Yet somehow she still felt shy.

Annie took her shower and the warm water helped to ease her mind. After her shower she went through the rest of her routine, brushing her teeth, wrapping her hair, putting on lotion, then changing into her nightgown.

When she left the bathroom, Elijah was standing near the bedroom door digging through his dresser. He looked up when he heard the door open.

His eyes traveled over her for only a second before settling back on her face. Annie looked away as he stared at her. The floor suddenly seemed very interesting.

"You're gorgeous, you know that?"

The compliment sent heat rushing to her cheeks.

"Thank you," her voice came out much smaller than intended.

Elijah crossed the room, reaching her in a few strides. His hands settled against her waist and he shook his head.

"You ain't gotta thank me for tellin' the truth."

The blush on her face only deepened.

"I'm gonna get cleaned up," he kissed her forehead then stepped away.

"O-Okay," Annie nodded.

He disappeared into the bathroom. And a few moments later she heard the shower start.

Annie wandered her way back out to the couch. There was a certain feeling in the apartment now, and she didn't know what to make of it. Her head was spinning with so many things, so when the phone rang, she jumped.

Her eyebrows furrowed trying to place who would be calling Elijah this late. The ringing continued as she glanced toward the bathroom. Finally, she walked over and picked it up.

"Hello?"

There was a brief pause.

"Annie."

Annie blinked, completely taken aback, "Mama?"

Annette Richard's voice came through clear as day.

"Who else gon' be callin' this man's house this time of night?"

"What you doin' callin' over here?"

"I forgot to remind you not to forget about the pies. And you better off makin' 'em over there since the kitchen gon' be packed the next few days. I think two of each should be good enough."

"Yes ma'am."

The bathroom door opened behind her. Annie looked up and immediately forgot whatever her grandmother had been talking about. Every thought in her head completely disappeared.

Elijah had stepped out while brushing his teeth. He had on a pair of dark pajama pants that hung low on his hips, and no shirt, just bare skin.

Despite noticing her staring, Elijah said nothing. Instead he nodded his head toward the phone in question.

"Who that?"

Annie said nothing, just stared.

Elijah frowned, "Bunny?"

Still nothing.

Her grandmother's voice came through the receiver.

"Annette?"

Annie snapped back to reality.

"Huh?"

"You heard me?"

"Yes ma'am."

She absolutely had not been listening.

"You be careful. And come back the same way you left. Understand me?"

"Mama!"

"I love you. Goodnight."

Then the line went dead.

Elijah still stood by the bathroom doorway waiting on an answer.

"Who was on the phone?"

Annie's eyes darted everywhere except toward him.

"Stop lookin' at me," the words came out much harsher than she really wanted them to. t

Elijah's eyebrows shot up in slight shock, "Sorry."

The apology was so quick that Annie instantly felt bad. She rubbed her forehead.

"No, it ain't you, baby," she rubbed her forehead. "It was just my grandmother on the phone. SHe was reminding me about making the pies for Thanksgiving."

Elijah nodded slowly. He was still trying to figure out what had her acting so strange all of a sudden.

Annie looked away again. Her heart was beating entirely too fast. The image of Elijah right in fornt of her was doing nothing good to her mind. She chose to fold her arms.

"I'm just tired, that's all," she took a pause. "I think I'm ready for bed."

Elijah studied her for a long moment. It was long enough that Annie started feeling nervous.

"I don't want you uncomfortable, so you can have the bedroom and I'll just sleep on the couch."

Annie's shoulders relaxed. She was a mix of relieved and guilty.

"You don't gotta do that."

"I don't mind. I want you comfortable."

Annie looked down at her bare feet, focusing on the way the soft cotton of her nightgown brushed against her calves.

"Okay, thank you," she nodded once.

"You're welcome," Elijah simply dipped his head.

Annie faced toward the bedroom ready to escape. She needed space to feel all these feelings she had. She only made it a few steps when fingers lightly wrapped around her arm. She turned around only to find herself standing much closer to Elijah than she had been previously.

A tiny sound escaped her as her eyes widened.

"You was just gonna go to bed? You ain't forgettin' somethin'?" Elijah looked amused.

She swallowed hard.

The man was so close she could smell the soap he used. She could feel the warmth coming off him. Her thoughts were becoming less and less useful by the second.

"I—"

Elijah patiently waited with one eyebrow raised.

Annie finally managed a weak, "Goodnight, Elijah."

A 'tsk' sound quickly left out of his mouth, "Bunny. That ain't a real goodnight."

Her face heated up all over again.

He looked at her like she was the most precious thing in the world. As if she was something worth being careful with. And in his eyes she always would be.

Before she could say anything, Elijah's hand slowly came up. His fingers found her chin with a gentle touch as he tilted her face up so she couldn't look at anything but him.

Annie's breath caught in her throat.

He leaned down. His lips met hers softly at first, testing to see how far he could go. The kiss was warm and slow, lips barely pressing. When he realized that she wasn't pulling away, Elijah pressed in deeper. His tongue reached out in question.

Annie hesitated for a split second. Her heart was beating so loud so could've sworn he could hear it. Once she pulled herself together, her lips parted just enough for. his tongue to slid in against hers.

The kiss quickened after that. What had started as something gentle and soft had turned into something that could be named as hunger. Their mouths moved together in a way that made her knees weak.

Elijah's hands went to her waist, then slid slightly lower to the thickness of her hips and pulled her flush against him. She could feel his body heat through the thin fabric of her nightgown.

Annie accidentally moaned into his mouth. The sound was swallowed up by the way he kissed her so completely. Her hands came up to grip the back of his head and pulled him closer. She was desperate to taste more of him, and to feel him.

Elijah grunted in answer. His grip tghtening on her body before his hands roamed her softness like her was trying to memorize every dip and curve.

Eventually he pulled back just enough to break the kiss. His forehead rested against hers for a moment. Then he tilted his head and pressed a gentle kiss to her cheek, then another just beneath her jaw, then another against the side of her neck.

Annie couldn't help the shiver that ran through her body at the feeling.

Elijah's voice came out rough when he finally spoke against her throat, "I love you, Annie."

Her eyes went wide. This wasn't exactly shocking. She'd known this for a while. The way he looked at her, the way he touched her, they way he talked to her. The way he professed himself in front of the schoolhouse. Annie just knew. But still, hearing the words out loud was different. Her chest tightened and her fingers twitched against his scalp.

He gave her one more soft and sweet peck on the lips, then stepped back to give her air.

"Goodnight, Annie," his voice came out low and rough.

Before she could think to say it back, he pressed a brief kiss to her forehead then stepped away.

Annie stood there trying to collect herself.

"Get some sleep," Elijah nodded toward the bedroom. "Get some sleep."

"O-Okay," she nodded.

Annie turned and hurried into the bedroom before she embarrassed herself any further. The door clicked shut behind her, leaving an overwhelming silence.

She climbed beneath the blankets and pulled them all the way up to her chin. Then stared at the ceiling, willing for her eyes to close. Five minutes passed. Then ten. Then twenty. Yet sleep never came. She rolled onto one side, the other, and then onto her back again.

The room wasn't unfamiliar. She'd spent plenty of time in Elijah's apartment. But tonight everything was different.

Maybe because this was the first time she was spending the night. Maybe because Thanksgiving was so soon and her entire family was waiting to meet him. Or maybe it was the way he felt, shirtless pressed against—

Annie buried her face in a pillow, wishing for the thoughts of had happened only moments before fogged up her head.

Because for all her years of saying she wasn't ready, and the confusion, and worrying, and overthinking, she was beginning to realize that she was very very much in love with Elijah Moore.

Annie woke up a tad bit earlier than she normally did. And for a moment she forgot where she was. She stared up at the the unfamiliar ceiling until it all came back to her. She was in Elijah's apartment.

The fact that she had barely slept because her mind would not stop replaying everything from the night before. And thinking about it made her stomach flutter.

After another minute of hiding beneath the covers, she forced herself out of bed. The apartment was quiet as she padded into the bathroom and got ready for the day.

When she finished, she had on one of the dresses she brought and took down her hair. It was a bit chilly, but she didn't mind it.

She moved to the kitchen and immediately go to work. After digging through Elijah's cabinets and refrigerator, she managed to piece something together for breakfast.

Annie hummed under her breath while she worked. She was standing over the stove when she heard heavy footsteps and a yawn behind her.

"Mornin'," his voice was rough with sleep.

Before she could turn around, strong arms wrapped around her waist. A smile spread across her face as Elijah buried his face against the side of her head. His chest was warm against her back. And for every reason, Annie found it all so very distracting.

"Good mornin'," Annie bit her lip.

She turned her head slightly, looking at him over her shoulder clearly waiting.

"You waitin' on somethin'?" A smirk tugged at his mouth.

Annie just quickly lifted her eyebrows up.

He chuckled then leaned down and gave her a good, somewhat quick, peck on the lips. It wasn't quite enough to satisfy her, but it would do for the time being. Especially since Elijah hadn't gotten ready for the day yet.

"What got you up this early?"

Annie turned back toward the stove.

"I don't quite know," Annie turned back to the stove. "I do have to make the pies today."

"Sounds like a lot of work."

"Not really," Annie shrugged.

As she spoke she glanced over her shoulder at him. Her eyes landed on his hair and her brows furrowed. Annie tilted her head.

"When the last time you got your hair done?"

"What's wrong with it?" His hand immediately went to his head.

"Ain't nothin' wrong with it," she laughed.

"You makin' it sound like it is."

"It just needs a little attention is all," Annie smiled at him sweetly. "Maybe you'll let me practice on you. I think it'll look nice."

"I guess I'll let you long as you don't have me out here lookin' crazy."

They talked more while breakfast finished cooking. A few minutes later they were sitting across from each other at the small kitchen table.

Morning sunlight filtered through the windows. The apartment felt cozy and comfortable like they'd been doing this for years.

"We need to do more for that bedroom. It's sad in there."

"Well, it's enough for me," Elijah looked up from his food.

"It ain't for me," Annie pointed her fork at him. "It's only a bed, a dresser, and one picture. That ain't enough. It should feel like more. Don't you like what I did in the living room?"

"I do Bunny."

"So let me do I wat I do. I'll get some nice curtains, a rug, maybe even a chair. It'll look so good when I'm finished."

Elijah shook his head before spooning more food into his mouth, "You can do whatever you want."

A dangerous smile slowly spread across her face.

Breakfast went on with the conversation going from decorations to church to school to Christmas. They had an easy rhythm going that never let up.

When hey finished, Annie stood up ready to get the day going. She had a productive day ahead of her and needed to get an early start.

Elijah disappeared to get dressed while Annie cleaned up the kitchen. It didn't take him long. A few minutes later he reappeared dressed for the day. They gathered their things and headed downstairs.

The morning air was cool. It made Annie tuck her hands into her dress pockets while she waited for Elijah to unlock the car.

Once he got it, he opened the passenger door for her and she got in the car with a smile. He shut the door behind her and headed to the driver's side. The engine was started and the radio played softly.

He drove them to the grocery store, so Annie would be able to pick up the things that she needed. The store was already a bit busy by the time they arrived. The parking lot was half full when Elijah pulled in.

Annie looked around and sighed, "All this last minute shoppin' people doin'."

"And you one of 'em," Elijah grabbed a cart from the front of the store.

"Well, I have a reason."

"Bunny, you coulda brought what you needed over," he pushed the cart toward her.

"Oh, you just shut up."

Elijah simply chuckled at his woman.

The second they stepped inside, Annie moved with a purpose leading them around. The first stop was produce, then dairy, then baking supplies. They eventually had to go back to the produce area because Annie forgot something. The entire trip consisted of Annie bouncing from one aisle to the next while Elijah pushed the growing cart behind her.

Annie not only got the supplies for the pies, she also got some simple things just to have in Elijah's kitchen. She had ingredients for soups, sandwiches, and breakfast items. It was all things she knew were simple enough for him to make.

Eventually they found themselves in the beauty aisle. Annie examined every bottle and jar, deciding to just stick with her tried and true Murray's pomade and Madam C.J. Walker's vegetable shampoo. She also grabbed a comb and some clips.

The trip ended up taking nearly forty-five minutes. By the time they reached the checkout line, the cart was completely full.

Annie reached into her purse for her money as the cashier began totaling everything up on the register. Elijah saw that and became instantly annoyed.

"Bunny."

She ignored him and started to count the bills she pulled out.

Elijah's hand seemed to appear out of nowhere, taking the money out of her hand.

"Give me my money, Elijah."

"No," Elijah pulled his hand away as Annie tried to reach for it. "Bunny, you know you ain't paying for nothin' while I'm standin' right here."

Annie crossed her arms, a slight pout on her face.

Elijah handed her back her money and pulled out his wallet, "Put that damn money away, woman."

The deep warning in his voice left Annie no room to argue. She just sighed dramatically and did as told.

Elijah paid for the items and loaded the bags back into the cart. They headed to the car, put everything in, and headed back to Elijah's.

When they got back to his place, they both carried everything upstairs. The kitchen counters quickly filled with groceries. Annie immediately got to work with organizing it all. She left the pie ingredients and hair care on the counter, but put everything else away in its proper spots.

After everything was properly put away, Annie gathered up the hair products and turned to face Elijah. She had a little smirk on her face.

"Can you go get me a towel please?"

Elijah narrowed his eyes but did as he was told. A few seconds later he came back holding a clean towel over his shoulder.

"Thank you. Now take your shirt off so it doesn't get wet," one of his eyebrows lifted.

The look she gave him afterward made a grin slowly spread across his face.

"Elijah…" Annie immediately rolled her eyes.

"I ain't say nothin'."

Still smiling, Elijah grabbed the hem of his shirt and pulled it over his head.

The years of army life and physical labor had done his body good. Even despite the scars that she could see. He was solid with broad shoulders and strong arms. And, sure, he didn't necessarily have to take his shirt off for her to wash his hair, but it seemed after the view last night Annie wanted more.

"Come here," Annie quickly reached for the towel.

She ignored his growing grin, wrapping the towel around his bare shoulders and pushed him toward he sink. The kitchen quickly filled with the sound of running water.

"Bend down for me."

"Yes ma'am," The teasing in his voice made her shake her head.

Elijah bent over the sink while Annie carefully wet his hair. Her fingers moved through the thick curls, making sure every section was soaked.

Annie glanced down when she noticed that Elijah's eyes were closed, "You alright?"

"Yeah, this just feels good."

A smile tugged at her lips. She poured shampoo into her hand and began working it through his hair. Her fingers scratched lightly against his scalp.

Elijah let out a low hum.

Annie continued scrubbing and eventually it was time to rinse the soap away. She wrapped the towel around his head and gently rubbed away the excess water.

"Alright, go sit in. the living room."

"Yes ma'am."

He stood and walked away.

A few minutes later Annie entered the living room carrying the comb, pomade, and clips. He had urned the television on and it was playing with the volume lowered.

Elijah sat on the floor in front of the couch.

Annie settled behind him and pulled him back until he was fit comfortably between her legs. She began combing through his damp hair. The process would take some time and patience because it looked like Elijah did't care to take good care of his hair for awhile.

Annie carefully parted the first section, using a little pomade to help. Then she began braiding. She went slow and steady to get used to it. The first braid came out slightly crooked and thick. It made her frown.

She got back to work and the next braid came out a bit straighter. Her hands were starting to find a rhythm and all the braids were getting better as time went on.

The repetitive motions were gradually lulling Elijah to sleep. Every few minutes his head would dip forward and Annie would gently catch it. Eventually he keptdoing it, so she guided it sideways until it rested against her thigh.

While Annie continued braiding, every so often Elijah absentmindly rubbed her calf where it rested beside him. He even pressed a quick kiss to her leg.

The afternoon slipped by. And before either of them knew it, all eight braids were finished.

Annie sat back to inspect her work.

They weren't perfect by far. A few parts weren't exactly straight. One braid was slightly thicker than the rest. Still she thinks she's proud.

Still, she felt proud.

She leaned forward and pressed a kiss to the side of his head. The movement startled him awake.

"You're done baby," she smiled.

Elijah blinked several times before slowly standing. He stretched his arms over his head and headed toward the bathroom.

Annie followed behind him nervously.

He stood in front of the mirror examining the braids from every angle. Turning his head left to right.

"What do you think?" Annie folded her arms.

He kept looking. And the longer he stayed silent, the more worried she became.

"It's not good? I can take i down," she sighed.

Elijah looked at her through the mirror. A light smile hit her face.

"Bunny, you did good."

"Really? You ain't just saying that?"

"No I mean it."

He turned his head again and a laugh escaped him this time.

"You know what?" he stared at himself in the mirror. "I really do look like my brother now."

"Not like it's a bad thing, y'all are twins," Annie giggled.

"Naw, it ain't."

He reached for her hand and pulled her closer.

The reflection looking back at them made something warm settle in his chest. Elijah squeezed her hand then lifted it to kiss it.

"I just might have to keep you around, Ms. Richard," he said quietly.

Annie rolled her eyes despite the smile on her face.

"I got work to do," she told him softly.

He leaned down and stole one more quick kiss, "Go on then."

Annie laughed and lightly pushed at his chest. Then turned and headed to the kitchen while Elijah remained standing there watching her go. And truth be told, he liked seeing her take over his space. Whenever she was over, the place always felt less empty.

He leaned against the doorway while Annie got to work. The ingredients covered the counters. She had subtly started to rearragne the kitchen to her liking. She was moving around the area like it was hers alone.

She went from pulling bowls down, to peeling sweet potatoes, to mixing different ingredients together. Elijah stood beside the counter watching her work.

"You need somethin'?" Annie asked without looking up as she rolled out the pie crust.

"No."

"Well, you just been watchin' me like you do."

"I can't just watch you?"

"You ain't got nothin' better to do?" Annie smiled despite herself.

"Nope."

She shook her head.

He watched her hands work and concentration settled across her face. She started to hum as she poured ingredients into the bowl. The apartment was starting to smell better with every minute that went by.

At one point Elijah wandered back into the living room and turned on the television. But ten minutes later he was back in the kitchen.

"Why you come back in here botherin' me?" Annie looked over at him.

"It smell good in here."

"Don't be gettin' in my way, Elijah," she rolled her eyes.

Time went by and the sun had started to set. The apartment was growing darker so Annie switched on the kitchen and continued working.

Annie poured up the pie fillings for all six pies then put three of them into the oven.

It took a few hours, but eventually the pies were finished. She carefully placed all six pies on the counter and stepped back looking on in satisfaction.

Suddenly, a yawn escaped her. The long day was catching up to her and she was noticeably tired now.

Luckily, she had cleaned while she worked so there was nothing she needed to do. She made her way to the bedroom to get ready for bed. She brushed her teeth while Elijah checked the locks on the door.

When she finished, she met back up with him in the small little hallway that led to the bedroom. Elijah leaned down and pressed a gentle kiss against her forehead.

"Goodnight, Bunny."

"Goodnight, Elijah," Annie smiled softly.

"Sleep good tonight," He brushed his knuckles against her cheek.

"You too."

This was his girl’s idea—and a stupid one at that.

Smoke could handle his own shit. He ain’t need no help pleasing his woman, and every girl he’d ever been with had nothing but good memories to look back on. But for some reason, his girlfriend just had come up with the bright idea to invite someone else into their bed. She just had to make a new friend that she was obsessed with enough to invite over.

This was her idea. Not his. And the way that he saw it, his girl couldn’t get upset with the way that things had turned out because he warned her about how ridiculous this all was.

~~~~~

When she first came home—talking about this Annie woman with blush coating her cheeks—he didn’t understand the appeal. So what she supposedly had a silky, smooth voice? So what she was the most beautiful woman his girl had ever seen? Beauty is relative, and Smoke couldn’t imagine a woman perfect enough to go there with. But if his girl wanted to give it a try, he’d be willing to do so, too.

They had it all planned out: this would mostly be about his girl getting what she wanted. Smoke was supportive. Smoke was thoughtful, and if she wanted to explore something new, he’d do it with her.

But how could anyone blame him when he finally set his eyes on this Annie woman? This Annie woman who is beautiful with a silky, smooth voice to match?

Smoke was knee deep in her before he realized what he was doing. Annie was laid out on her back in his bed, arching against the mattress with his head between her thighs. All he could hear, smell, taste, see, and feel was her. Her nails were scratching at the back of his neck as she encouraged him to keep going. She kept saying it was good, that he was so good. He had to keep going. Had to keep devouring her until she was shaking against his face.

Smoke dragged Annie to the edge of her pleasure, lips tight around her clit, and before she could cum, he pulled out. A whine leaving her lips, he shut her up quickly by settling his length between her parted thighs. He effectively hushed her cries, and her moans sounded louder than they had all night.

“Fuck,” he cursed beneath his breath. “You tight as shit, baby.” He wiped his face with the back of his hand, soon taking up both of her legs and throwing them over his shoulders.

“Oh, shit,” Annie laughed throatily, hardly finding the chance to breath between Smoke pummeling her and kissing down the length of her neck. He was too good at everything he was doing. So damn good for her.

She’d completely forgotten why she was here and who had brought her here. She’d forgotten this was supposed to involve someone else, too. But how could you blame her? Her new friend ain’t tell her that her man had it like this. She ain’t say he was this sexy. She ain’t say that he would have her dickmatized in mere minutes.

When she was asked to join them, Annie had incorrectly assumed that Smoke couldn’t be any good in bed if her friend wanted another person to join, but she was pleasantly astonished by his capabilities. Where she thought he’d be inept, the man was anything but. He could handle her with ease: picking her up, throwing her around, fucking her through the mattress—and his girl, too (when either of them could remember she was there).

Fully consumed by the moment, Smoke had Annie hanging off the side of the bed. Her head hung low as one of her hands touched the floor, trying her best to keep her upright.

"Arch that fuckin' back, baby," he groaned, eyes on the recoil of her ass.

"I'm tryin'," she shouted back, fighting the urge to crumble. Fuck did it feel good. It felt like he was fucking her raw—and he wasn't. It felt like he knew all the right spots and angles to hit. And when she would clench in a real specific way, Smoke felt like she knew what he needed, too. He dragged out and back in, forced her hips to meet his in the middle, and when she pulsed and fluttered and clenched just one last time, they came together with ease.

With her eyes closed, Annie felt him collapse against her back. His breath was hot against her neck, and the weight of him brought her relief.

"You comfortable up there," she laughed in question, sighing when he groaned in her left ear and squeezed at her side. She'd never felt this light after sex, and even though he'd put her through a lot, she felt better than she had all day. She couldn't believe her luck, couldn't believe that saying yes to a simple, yet loaded, ask would result in her body fluttering all over while her eyes sank back into her sockets.

But it felt like she was forgetting something.

She thought back to when Smoke had fell on top of her.

And when she had allowed her body to topple over the edge of the bed.

And when she was moaning his name and he hers.

And when he was eating her out with frenzied purpose.

And when he had ripped her clothes from her body.

And when she had walked into the bedroom.

And when the front door had opened and her friend was on the other side.

Annie’s eyes sprang open quickly, and with Smoke still laid out on top of her, she saw her friend standing in the door frame of the bedroom. Her shoulder was leaned into the wood. Her right foot crossed over her left while her arms folded against her chest in a strong hold. Robe covering her naked body, the woman looked like she could breathe fire and curse someone’s bloodline in the same second, and Annie didn’t exactly blame her. This wasn’t supposed to go like this, but she and the man had gotten far too carried away with each other.