- The Comeback -

“You look nice.” Xavier said as he looked me over after he took Lani from me. I smiled as my face flushed and I looked down at the floor. “Geez, we been together how long and you still acting like we just started dating.” He joked as he placed a kiss on my forehead. I stuck my tongue out at him, before Lani mimicked me, laughing. 

“Oh she is the cutest.” I said smiling at the chubby cheeked little girl that I had the right to call mine. “I know. My Mama would of loved her... And you.” He spoke, his voice laced with a hint of sadness as he brought up his mother. 

We decided on the name Lani because it was a variation of his mother’s name, Elaine. I loved the thought behind it, and felt it was the best fit for our daughter.

“Come on, we better get going. Don’t want to be late.” He spoke again, this time in a normal tone, as he reached out for my hand. I smiled, grabbing my phone from off the bed before I placed my hand in his.

-

Xavier

I couldn’t believe that it’s already been two years... Time flies man. It seems like just yesterday Lo was telling me she was pregnant with my seed. 

Dealing with a pregnant Lo was difficult, but completely worth it. Lani’s about a year and a half and has been the greatest blessing I could ask for. People always feel some type of way when I say that, but it’s the honest truth. Yeah I got my little man and Jas, but there was something about Lani that just made my whole world feel complete.

“Bro, you ready to go?” Aug asked as he came through my front door. “You could knock you know nigga. Just walking in random ass houses can get ya’ ass shot.” I joked as I dapped him up before walking into the kitchen. “Nigga, I am yo’ blood, you ain’t gon’ shoot me.” He said before sitting on one of the stools placed at the island. “Even that wouldn’t stop me big fella.” I said laughing as I grabbed one of Lani’s apple juice’s out of the fridge.  

“And who invited you into my home?” I heard India say before I felt Lani bump into my leg. “Oo, sowwie Daddy.” She said before grabbing the bottle of my hand, plopping down on the floor, before putting it up to her mouth. 

“I invited myself, thank you very much Miss.” Aug retorted, causing India to her kiss her teeth. “It’s Mrs. to you my friend.” She snapped, bringing her left hand up and shoving it in Aug’s face. “It was obviously a joke Indy. I went to y’all wedding remember?” He said rolling his eyes as I guess memories of our wedding filled his mind.

“How could I forget? You spilled Hennessy all over my dress.” She said, a fake smile appearing on her face. If I didn’t know better, I would of thought her face would of turned upside down like the one emoji. “Aye, no one told you to have that shit at y’all bar.” August was a clown, I swear.

“WE DIDN’T! You sneaked it in, you dick.” Lo said, slapping him in the back of the head, causing me and Lani to bust out into laughter. “You even got my baby laughing at you, clown.” Lo snapped as she bent down to pick Lani back up. “Now let’s go.” She said walking past me towards the garage.

-

_ilthomas - ‘when i’m with my clique, we know how to party.’ #myfavduo

-

August

“Damn, them niggas sure kno’ how to throw a party!” I said as I threw myself down on Xae sofa. “They sho’ do. Lani was out there bussin’ moves!” Xae said as he started dancin’ wit’ Lani in his arms, causing ha’ to laugh. I smiled at the two of ‘em. You could tell that nigga loved that lil’ girl more than anything. Mf’s think that Lani was his first the way he act wit’ ha’, but we all know the truth. Xae just don’t like to speak on them otha’ two. 

“Oh stop messin’ with my baby.” India said walking into the livin’ room, as she reached out to take Lani into ha’ arms. “Don’t listen to ya’ daddy or ya uncle, they don’t get us girlsss.” She said gettin’ in Lani face, makin’ ha laugh. “Fuck you mean I don’t get girls?” Xae said puffing his chest out like he was finna’ do something. “Boy bye. You could barely get me.” Indy joked, causing me to buss out laughing at tha’ look on Xae face. “My niggggggga Looooo’!” I dragged out as my laughing had died down some. “A whole joke.” Indy said rolling her eyes as she walked towards they bedroom. I looked over at Xae, looking like a damn puppy that ain’t get picked up at the pound. “You kno’ she was kiddin’ bruh. Knock it off.” I joked as I got up and stretched. “Man nigga. Don’t you got somewhere else to be?” He retorted making me chuckle. “Nah bruh. Nené ain’t gon’ be home for awhile. What’s the point of being there if my baby ain’t? Ya’ feel?” I said shruggin’. He kissed his teeth be’fa laughing. “What’s so funny nigga?” I snapped, raising my eyebrows, lookin’ to him like his ass was stupid. “The two of y’all man. Y’all something else. Ya’ll can never be away from each other, but y’all stay fuckin’ with other people. Knowing damn well y’all soul mates.” 

I sighed as I rubbed the back of head. This nigga had a point. No matta’ what happens, we always seem to come back togetha’. “Man nigga whatever. You and Lo’ the same way.” I huffed be’fa I sat back down on the sofa. “Aye, don’t disrespect my wife big fella. Why you think we go married? Exactly. So shut the hell up.” He snapped hittin’ me on the back of the head.

I kissed my teeth, looking back at him like he really done lost his mind. “I tried that remember? The shit blew the fuck up in my face. Ain’t no second chances with marriage my nigga. It’s a one time thing.” I heard him chuckle be’fa he hopped ova’ the back of the sofa and sat down. “Listen lil’ bro. If you really love lil’ ma, you gotta let her ass know that. Of course that shit blew up in ya face the first time. Y’all was young, and Nené had went thru all that shit with losing the baby. Wanting to actually be married to someone takes time bruh. Why you think it took me so long to ask Lo’? Shit you know how long I went be’fa I actually told her I loved her? A long ass time nigga. But you and Nené knew y’all loved each other from the start. In due time my dude. In due time. I promise.” He spoke, makin’ me really listen to what he had to say. Once again, he had a point; I was shocked actually. Cause we all know Xae ain’t the smartest nigga in the place. “Thanks man.” I said dapping him be’fa I felt my phone vibrating in my pocket.

I looked at it once I had it out my pocket and smiled.

My Babygirl ‘ ❤ - I’m on the way to the apartment. I love you 😘

“Uh-huh, you best be smilin’ nigga.” I heard India say as she came out the bedroom in a red silk robe, causing me to laugh. “And I guess that is my cue to leave.” I said standin’ up and putting my phone back in my pocket. “Oh you best believe it is.” Xae said rubbin’ his hands together, while lickin’ his lips, lookin’ like a hungry ass bear. “She’s a human being, not a piece of meat.” I joked, shaking my head.

“Bye Augggggie. Tell my wifey I said hello.” India said smiling before Xavier picked her up and threw her over his shoulder. “Bye lil’ nigga.” Xae said winkin’ at me. I chuckled before I made my way towards the front door. 

They was both some jokes.

Closing my eyes, I exhaled as I felt my hands find their way to caress my stomach. I could feel my lips trying to form into a smile, but I couldn’t let that happen. I wasn’t supposed to be smiling about this. This was nothing to smile about. I could feel my breathing begin to become very uneven as I thought about the living organism growing inside me. I’ve always envisioned this moment for years, ever since I was really little. But I wasn’t happy with this right now. This wasn’t what I wanted for myself right now. I could feel the tears start to descend down my face as my mind roamed back to that awful dark time that I never wanted to go back to.

-

Courtney

I sat on the edge of the bed as I looked down at my feet as they didn’t want to touch the floor. Pushing myself up off the bed, catching my balance as I stood up and stretched out some. Looking around the bare white room, I sighed as I prayed for the day that I’d be able to escape this hell hole.

“Brown. Let’s go.” I heard the officer say as I walked towards the cell door. Placing my hands through the designated spot in the door as I watched her place handcuffs onto my wrist. Once I heard the left cuff click along my wrist, I removed my hands from the slot before I waited for the officer to unlock my door and let me out for my hour of time outside. 

I hated being treated like I was nothing, like I was worthless. And that’s exactly what this place is like. I was only known by my last name or the crime I committed. And with my mental health not being in the greatest shape, I was know as the ‘crazy/unstable one’. This place was not for me. I didn’t belong here.

Sirens wailed making me jump and look around before I was slammed to the ground, everything around me going black.

-

Tremaine

I walked into the bathroom before walking over to the vanity sink. Looking in the mirror, I smiled a devilish smile as I looked at the masterpiece that was created on my face from my previous encounter. The splatter and it’s color was just a beautiful sight to just a sadistic person like myself. That devilish smile never left my face as I turned on the faucet, running my hands under the steaming hot water as I watched the beautiful red sight make it’s way down the drain. Pumping some soap from the soap dispenser onto my hand, I could hear a faint cry coming from in the distance. My smile soon fell as I began to worry that my work had not been done. Removing the reminder of the soap off my hands, I turned the faucet off before drying my hands on the small hand towels that sat on the counter.

Calmly walking out the room, I looked to the figure that laid motionless on the bed. I walked over to her just in case. Scanning her over, seeing my art at it’s finest. But as I looked at my art, I noticed some movement... Movement coming from her fingers as well as her mouth. Ha.. She thought I wouldn’t be aware that she was still alive huh? The devilish smile appeared once again as I climbed onto the bed, making my way to position myself on top of her. Just as I set my weight down on her, her head moved to the side before her eyes opened and she attempted to mumble some words. “Go on child. Speak your mind while you have the chance.” I expressed as I took the blade that I had placed in my back pocket out before I brought it to her face, tracing her bone structure, watching as blood started to drip from the incision I had just created. “Fuh-fuh-fuh-fuck you.” She stammered, making me let out a hardy laugh as I found her words so amusing to my ears. “If you insist babygirl.” I grinned as I started to rise off of her fragile frame. Spreading her bloodied legs open some, I ran my newly blood stained fingers along her inner thighs. She may have been close to death, but she still shivered at my touch. This only excited me and the thoughts that raced through my head at this point in time.

I stood up and looked her over once more before I was just about to reach for my beat loop to unbuckle it when I heard a faint noise. Turning to face the door of her bedroom, I didn’t notice anything out of the ordinary, just the trail of blood that seemed to go on forever. I turned back to the body that laid before me before the noise could be heard, but it was much louder. I felt my blood begin to boil as I thought about this dear life was going to go to waste because someone decided to fuck my session up.

-

India

“You set me up. You little pussy ass bitch.”

That line played in my head over in over as the image of him reaching under the bed came into view of my thoughts.. I watched as his arm began to raise up in the air before those fatal shots were fired. All 11 shots. I knew I was in the wrong for what I did that awful day, but I didn’t think shit was gonna plan out like that. My intention was never to have August get killed. I just wanted him arrested and charged for the things he did to me. All I wanted was some closer in my life... But I didn’t get any of that from that situation.. The only thing I got out of that situation was what I thought was just a broken heart that could never be mended back together. But now, it was not only a broken heart, it was a baby as well.

I heard the room door open, making me look towards the door. Seeing it was a nurse, I turned back to face the bed. “I’m just here to check her vitals. It’ll any take a minute.” The nurse stated as she walked over to the other side of the bed, taking the stethoscope from around her neck before placing the ear tips into her ears. “Is she gonna be okay?” I questioned as I watched her move the diaphragm of the scope around Paris’ chest before she looked over at me with a smile. “She’s should be getting better within the next couple of days. She’s been improving greatly since she’s been here.” She reassured as she placed the stethoscope back around her neck before writing down something on the clipboard that was attached to the railing of the bed. “Can I get you anything?” She asked as she started making her way to the door. I shook my head no as I settled back in my chair. I haven’t eaten or drank anything in days. I haven’t had a good night’s sleep in just about forever. I wasn’t planning on sleeping, eating or drinking until I knew that Paris was gonna be alive and well. 

Paris and I ain’t always have the best relationship with one another but she was like my first real love. Yeah I fucked around a lot in high school, but I always knew back then that Paris was what I wanted. And after I got her pregnant, my love grew for her even more. But it was fake. I only loved Paris cause she was the mother of my child. I was just in love with the idea that she was having my child. After Aleeyah was born, I ain’t really care for Paris to be honest. She was just some pussy when I needed it or when she was willing to give it up to a nigga. But now, seeing her like this, this shit hurt a nigga for real. 

I sighed as I wiped at the tears I didn’t even know I had shed. “I’m so sorry Ree...I love you babygirl. Please get better. Aleeyah needs you Ree. I can’t do this without Ma...” I sobbed as I took a hold of her hand as I rested my head on her torso.

-

Paris

“I love you babygirl. Please get better. Aleeyah needs you Ree. I can’t do this without Ma...” I heard Xavier cry onto my stomach as I tried my best to open up my eyes. Everything these past few weeks have been hectic. I’ve been in and out of consciousness these past couple days and it’s been pretty rough for me. 

I honestly thought I was going to be left for dead that one horrid night. Being beaten was enough for me to think I was done for good. But as I managed to get away from Tremaine the first time, I had a feeling it wasn’t over. And it wasn’t. He pushed me down the stairs and laughed as I tumbled down the flight of 14 steps. As I hit the floor, I felt like giving up. I felt like all the life that was left in me was gone at the point. But hearing his footsteps come down the stairs, I felt my adrenaline finally kick in, helping me to crawl across the living room floor. But as I got to that corner of the living room, I knew it was all over for me. Everything else that Tremaine did to me let me know I wasn’t going to make it to see my daughter grow up. Being away from Aleeyah, I feel is the only thing that’s kept my going these past few weeks. She’s been my motivation to stay alive. And obviously God feels the same way cause I’m still here.

“Xavier...” I acknowledge in a hoarse voice. I only had my left eye open because it seemed as my right one was sewed shut. I watched as his head popped up swiftly as he wiped at his face with the back of his hand. “Oh my goodness. P...” He cried as he stood up and embraced me in a hug the best way he could. I was in pain as he did this, but I wasn’t going to show it because I knew he was hurting on the inside seeing me like this. “I’m so sorry that I wasn’t here sooner.. I tried to come as quick as I could...” He explained as he sat back in the chair he had placed by the bed, taking my hand into both of his. “It’s ok.” I said the best I could be coughing. He quickly jolted up as he leveled my head up on a pillow. “Take it easy P. Don’t force nothing aight?” I simply nodded my head as I closed my eye again. All these bright lights were killing me. And the noises from the monitors I was hooked up to was giving me a big ass headache. “I’ll go get a nurse, aight? Don’t move. I’ll be right back.” He stated as he planted a kiss on my forehead before I could hear his footsteps becoming slightly faint as he made his way out the room.

-

Xavier

As I started walking out of the room to find a nurse to check up on Paris, a smile covered my face. I’on know but hearing P’s voice say my name let me know that God was really watching over her. I had my doubts that she wasn’t going to pull through completely for awhile, but seeing as in only the past 3 days that I’ve been here, she’s awake and talking for the first time was a big relief as well as a miracle. 

I searched the hospital halls for a nurse that wasn’t busy, but wasn’t really in luck with finding one. Walking over to the desk that wasn’t too far from Paris’ room, I leaned against the counter as I waited for the desk clerk to get off the phone. 

“Yes, how can I help you?” She asked as she looked up at me. “Oh um, room 3-108 needs a nurse. She just wo---.” Was all I could get out before a loud ringing noise could be heard coming from down the hall and nurses and a couple doctors in lab coats came busting out of different doors that filled the halls before they all ran into one room. “She’s going into cardiac arrest. Un-responsive. I can’t get her vitals. We have to move now!” Was all that coming from that room. Everybody was talking at once but I could hear everything clearly. I started to walk down the hall to see what room is was but everyone come rushing out of the room they were all gathered in, at least 10 different people all attached to a bed came running out. I felt my heart drop a little as I wasn’t sure who was laying in that bed. Getting closer to what was Paris’ room, all the other patients were in their beds in their rooms. But as I stood in front of Paris’ open door, I dropped to my knees I noticed her bed was the one missing.

“Excuse me sir. I’m going to need you to go down to the lobby.” I heard some lady say as I was hunched over on the floor, my head in my hands as I couldn’t believe this was really happening. Looking up at the figure that stood beside me, I cried as I knew this wasn’t going to end well. She held her hand out for me with a sadden expression on her face. I sighed as I grabbed a hold of it before I pulled myself up. She never let go of my hand as she walked my towards the elevator at the end of the hall. She pressed the button with the arrow pointing down before waiting for the doors to open. I felt as my tears only fell faster at all the possibilities that could happen to Paris right now. Hearing the ding of the elevator made me jump a little before the lady led me on to the elevator, never letting my hand go as she pushed the ‘1′ button on the panel before the doors closed. “Everything’s going to be okay Xavier.” She said as she started to rub my back. But I knew that wasn’t true.

This was the beginning of the end for Paris.

“I can’t take this anymore... Like seriously? You gon’ blatantly lie to my fucking face and then try and apologize saying it’s not your choice?” I yelled in his face as I was chopping up some potatoes for dinner tonight. “Man Lo, fuck you making a big deal outta this shit fa’. I told yo ass I ain’t know how to till you without upsetting you, that’s why I ain’t wanna say shit to you bout it till I was gettin’ ready to leave.” He responded as he leaned his elbows on the island. I slammed the knife down on the counter before I looked up at him as he was staring me dead in the eyes. “I’M MAKING A BIG DEAL OUT OF THIS? I’m making a big deal out of this...” I yelled, scoffing before I walked over to the fridge to get out some cheese. 

“Yes a big deal. Now hush wit’ all that yellin’, you know Yah asleep.” He said as he crossed his arms over his chest as he mugged me. “Fix ya’ fucking face. And don’t be tellin’ me what I can and can not do. I’m fuckin’ grown.” I snapped as I slammed the refrigerator door shut before slamming the packages of cheese on the counter. “So you gettin’ mad now? All that I’ve done for you since August died, and you gon’ cop a fit cause I ain’t tell you I was gettin’ deployed right when I found out about it? You flaw as fuck Lo. Fa’real.” I looked up at him as I was trying to hold back tears. I bit down into my bottom lip before I spoke again. “I’m sick and tired of this...” I stated as I went back to my cutting board. 

“Sick and tired of what?” He snapped as he walked around the island to where I was standing. “Of the disrespect. Stop disrespecting me. Stop disrespecting me, STOP.” I snapped pointing the knife I had in my hand in his face. “Yeah, we have our good times. But other times you’re always lying to me about who you’re talking to, where you’re going.. It’s not fair to me Xavier.” I sobbed as the tears started to fall as I placed the knife back down on the counter. Looking up at him, he had a sadden look on his face before he brought him into his embrace. “Ah man.. Come on Mamas. Don’t do me like that... I only lie to you about shit cause I’m tryna protect you. And I mean that. I don’t need you getting involved in my drug life or the people that are apart of it. I can’t let you get hurt, and know it was my fault cause I told you something I wasn’t supposed to. I’m just looking out fa’ you Lo... I love you fa’real. And you know this...” He said solemnly as he lifted my chin up with his index finger as he looked me in the eyes, letting me know he meant everything he said. All I could do was nod as I wiped at my tear stained cheeks before resting my head on his chest. “I’m sorry India..” He said as he kissed my forehead.

-

Xavier Alexander

I watched her as she slept. Her lips parted slightly as her small snores filled the space between us. Running my fingers along the side of her face, I sighed. She had a nigga feelin’ so bad earlier with the shit she said. I really meant all the shit I said tho. I ain’t want India in my life of crime nor did I need her getting hurt cause of me.

I got up off the bed, grabbing my phone off the nightstand before I made my way out the room in order to go downstairs. That food Illy cooked was fucking banging, and I wanted some more of it. Yawning as I made my way down the last few steps before I almost slipped and busted my ass. Looking down at what I almost slipped on. Seeing it was one of Yah’s Barbie dolls. Lil bit got them shits everywhere in my house man. Sighing as I made my way into the kitchen, going straight towards the fridge. Scanning through the shelves looking for what Indy cooked earlier, not finding it. I kissed my teeth before I was just gon’ settle for some pizza from like 2 days ago. I knew shit was gon’ be nasty but a nigga was hungry. I was about to set the two pieces left on a plate when I felt my phone vibrate in my hand. Looking down at it to see it was my father calling me. I scoffed before I set it down on the counter and put this pizza in the microwave.

As I waited for this shit to heat up, I grabbed my phone off the counter, unlocked it before going to Instagram. Clicking on the new post icon, I scanned through my gallery looking for a picture of India I had took today when we were out at the mall. I smiled at how happy she looked in the picture... It wasn’t too long before I told her about my deployment.. That smile on her face faded too soon once I told her.... I shook myself out of my thoughts before writing a caption and posting the picture just as the microwave started going off.

xavier.alexander - this the shit that i live for.

Taking the plate out the microwave, I shook my head before I tossed the two pieces of pizza in the trash. I had lost my appetite and just looking at that shit made me wanna throw up. I yawned once again before I made my way back upstairs, checking on Aleeyah first, making sure she was alright before I went to sleep for the night, hopefully. Smiling at her cute ass little self all snuggled up in her bed with her favorite teddy bears. I leaned over her a little, kissing her forehead before I ran my hand over her curls.

I sighed to myself as I watched her sleep. It was a shame to know that her mother is missing out on her life. Aleeyah done grew up so much in just a short amount of time it was crazy. I wasn’t ready for her to get any older. It was what like July, and her 4th birthday is in like September. That shit creepin’ up on a nigga and I don’t think I’m ready for that. And who knows if Paris ass is even gon’ show up to Yah’s party.

“Daddy...” I heard Yah’s soft voice fill my ears bringing me out of my thoughts. I smiled at her as she sat up and rubbed at her eyes. “What you doing up babygirl?” I asked her as I picked her up and placed her on my lap. “I had a bad dream...” She said before letting out a yawn. “Come on, come lay with me and Illy.” She smiled wide before nodding her head as I picked her up and placed her on my hip as I made my room out her room and towards mine.

“Well Xavier. Thank you for coming over. It was a pleasure to meet both you and your beautiful daughter.” My mother said with the biggest smile on her face as Xavier was just about getting ready to leave. “Oh no. Thank you for having me. It was really a pleasure getting to meet all of you.” He said as he bent down to kiss my mother on the cheek. “Aye Xavier. You take care of my lil’ girl now. You hear me?” My father said as he came from out the living room before giving Xavier a hug. “Of course Mr. West. She only deserves the best.” Xavier said as he bent down to kiss India on the forehead as he wrapped his arm around her shoulders. “That’s my boy.” My father said making the two of them laugh together.

This sickened me. Seeing India and Xavier like this. It was disgusting. It made me want to have nothing to do with her. Like. Your boyfriend just died because of you, and now your with his brother? Like what kind of shit is that? But it’s none of my business really. It’s her life. If she gets hurt in the end, I ain’t gon’ be her shoulder to cry on.

“Andrea. Say goodbye to your sister before she leaves. You’ve barely said anything to her since she’s gotten here.” My mother said making me roll my eyes. I faked a smile as I got up from where I was siting at the counter and walked over to where she and India were standing. “Bye Illy.” I said as I gave her a hug. “Bye Drea.” She said before she let go and went to hug our mother again. “I love you Mommy.” She said kissing her cheek. “I love you too baby. Be safe okay?” India nodded before she took a hold of Xavier’s hand and they made their way out the house.

-

India Love

I don’t know why, but my sisters seemed so fake when I went home. Yeah I know I ain’t been there in like a month, but still. You would think they would be all over me cause they missed me. Nope, not a damn emotion. I ain’t even get a ‘Hi’. My mother had to beg Andrea to say goodbye to me. Like what kind of shit is that?

“Babe, you good?” Xavier asked once he pulled out my parents driveway. “Yeah, I guess. We going to the beach now right?” I asked trying to avoid this conversation. “Yeah.” He said as he leaned over and kissed my cheek. “Come on. Cheer up babygirl.”

-

Xavier Alexander

I ain’t know what was bothering Indy, but I guess she gon’ be aight cause she ain’t talking to a nigga about it. 

“You ready to go chill on the beach Yah?” I asked Aleeyah as I looked at her through my rear view mirror, seeing her playing with her Barbie doll. “Yes. And then we wah fireworks?” She asked looking at me with a smile on her face. “You got it dude.” I said making her giggle. “But Daddy. I don’t have a bathing suit.” Aleeyah whined making me laugh. “It’s in the trunk baby. Indy will help you put it on when we get there aight?” I heard her sigh before she mumbled a small ‘Okay’.

-

“Ooo. Daddy look at the water!” Aleeyah said as she went running towards the walkway that connected the parking lot to the beach. “ALEEYAH! GET OVER HERE!” I yelled making her stop in her tracks. “What I tell you ‘bout running off like that.” I snapped as I grabbed her by her arm once I got to where she was standing. “I’m sorry...” She said as tears started to fill her eyes. I heard India sigh as she came and scooped Aleeyah up. “Come here baby. It’s okay.” She said as she rubbed Yah’s back as she walked onto the beach. “Watch yourself Xavier.” India said as she looked back at me, rolling her eyes. All I could do was wave her off. Ain’t nobody got time fa’ this shit man.

-

India Love

“Inda, why doesn’t Daddy like me?” Aleeyah asked as I walked her down to the water. It broke my heart to hear her talk like this. “What do you mean Yah?” I asked as I picked her up once the water got to high for her to be standing in. “He always yelling at me. I don’t like it. It’s not nice.” She said as she rested her head on my shoulder. “He’s just trying to look after you Yah. You’re his world. He doesn’t wanna lose you. Do you understand that?” She sighed as she nodded. 

I was up to my knees in the water when I heard my name being called.

“INDIA!” Looking back at the shore it was Xavier. I sighed as I turned around and made my way back. 

“What?” I asked once I got to where we had set up our beach chairs and towels. “I don’t want her in that water. At least no further than where it’s up to her ankles.” He is so protective of his child, I swear. “Alright.” I said as I set Yah Yah down on the towel. Tonight’s gonna be a long night.

-

india.west - | “let’s go to the beach-each. let’s go get away.” | 

-

“What time the show starts again?” I asked Xavier as I was laid down by a now sleeping Aleeyah. We had been here for almost 2 hours, and the sun was just starting to set. It was going on 8:30, so I knew it would have to be starting soon.

“9.” He said making me nod as I looked out to the sky and watched the sun set. 

-

Xavier Alexander

I positioned myself behind India, kissing on her back and neck as the fireworks started to go off. Aleeyah was now awake and sitting in India’s lap, pointing up at the different colors that were popping off in the sky.

“Get up for a second.” I whispered in India’s ear. She looked over her shoulder at me before she lifted Aleeyah off her lap and stood up. I stood up myself before wrapping my arms tightly around here as we both faced the sky.

I swallowed my pride as I thought about what I was about to say. I felt it was the right time to tell her this fr.

“India...” I said as I looked down at her, the bright colors from the art work that filled the sky illuminated the side of her face. I smiled at the beautiful figure that stood before me.

“Yes?” She said as she turned to look up at me. I felt my heart skip a couple beats as I was getting myself prepared for this. Shit had my ass feeling like a little bitch. I chuckled to myself as I tried to calm myself down. “What is it you doof?” She said smiling, making me smile back at her.

I sighed before I looked her in the eyes.

“I love you India.”

-

India Love

I felt my heart jump at the sound of those 4 words. I felt like I was the only one that felt that way. I never would of thought that he would feel the same...

Loud booms filled the sky as I felt my eyes start to water. 

“I love you too Xavier...”

He smiled the biggest smile I might have ever seen before he placed both of his hands on the side of my face, looked me in my eyes and attached his lips to mine.

“Aleeyah! Get yo ass over here!” I yelled as she was running around the backyard, ‘bout 3 steps from slipping and falling into the pool. She laughed as she ran over to where I was standing at the sliding glass door. As I watched her smile only get bigger I sighed as I remember how real that dream felt. I didn’t know what I would of did if that shit really would of happened. I wasn’t ready to lose my babygirl that way.

“Hi Daddy!” She coo’ed as she hung onto my leg. “Now ain’t I tell yo ass to stay in the house? Now you smell like outside and shit. Now go find Indy and tell her to put you in the tub again.” She sighed and bowed her head as she let go of my leg and walked back into the house towards the kitchen.

All I could do was smile. She was just like me when she ain’t get ha’ way. It was so cute. “Xavier, she smells fine. Why she needa take another bath?” India questioned as she had Aleeyah rested on her hip. “She smell like outside man. She needa bath.” India rolled her eyes before she waved me off and walked off towards the hallway.

-

India Love

“Your daddy just being a bootyface Yah. It’s okay..” I told Aleeyah as I set her on the counter in order to get the tub started. “But I just took a bath Inda.” She whined making me smile at how cute she was. “I know baby. But we gotta make your daddy happy okay? Today’s supposed to be a fun day.” I said just as I started to take her clothes off of her. Yeah, Xavier was right. She smelled like outside.

“Ewwwwww. You stink.” I said joking as I held my nose closed with my fingers. She stuck her bottom lip out before she started to smell under her arms. “No I don’t!” She whined, making me laugh before I picked her up again and set her in the tub.

“I want my bubble buddies! Please.” She said as she started messing around with the bubbles that I placed in the water. I let out a small laugh as I got her bath toys out of the toy box Xavier had placed in the bathroom. “Which ones you want Yah Yah?” I asked as I looked through the box, not knowing which ones she wanted. “It doesn’t matter.” She said as she placed bubbles in her hair. I giggled at how cute she was before I pulled out 4 different toys before placing them into the tub. “Thank youuu.” She coo’ed as she started splashing around.

-

“India, let’s fucking gooooo!” I heard Xavier’s impatient ass yell as I just finished getting myself ready. “Boooooy if you don’t..” I said as I walked out the bathroom to see him sitting on the bed messing with his phone. All I could do was roll my eyes. Nigga always tryna rush somebody. He looked up at me, before smiling. “Oh gurl. Yas. Werk.” He said in a ratchet ass voice while snapping his fingers. I looked at him funny as hell before I started busting out laughing. “Boy bye!’ I said mushing his face with my hand as I walked past the bed in order to walk out the room. “You betta get yo ass back here..” He said as he caught me off guard by scooping me up in his arms and throwing me over his shoulder. “XAVIER! Put me down! Oh my goodness.” I pleaded as I started banging on his back. “Girl, quit that shit. Fa’ I buss a cap in yo’ ass.” I huffed at his remarks before I just stayed still as I waited for his yellow ass to put me down.

-

Xavier Alexander 

It was still pretty early in the day, so I thought we would all go out and watch a movie or sum before it was time to stop by LoLo’s parents house fa’ some food and then go see the fireworks later on tonight.

“Daddy! Daddy! Inside Out! Inside Out!” Aleeyah yelled as she saw the ‘Inside Out’ movie poster hanging on the side of the movie theater building. “Man, I ain’t watchin’ no fucking childish ass movie. I’m ready to see them dinosaurs niggggggga.” I said getting in Aleeyah’s face as we waited in line to buy our tickets to Jurassic World. “Xavier. Don’t be mean. See wants to watch Inside Out. I heard it was pretty good.” India said as she clung onto my arm before kissing my cheek. I huffed before I agreed to watch this kid ass movie. 

“Next in line please.” I heard the lady at the ticket booth say. “Come on Yah.” I said taking a hold of her hand as we walked over to the booth. “Up Daddy Up.” She whined, making me kiss my teeth as I picked her up and placed her on my hip as I looked up at the board that displayed all the movies and movie times.

“Hello sir. How may I help you?” The lady said as she started tapping on the computer screen in front of her. “Yeah, uh. Let me get 2 adults and 1 child for Inside Out.” I told the lady before I pulled a $50 dollar bill out my pocket fa’ sliding it under the little slot in the window. As I waited for my change, I looked over at India to see her standing there looking fine as ever. Licking my lips, I guess she noticed I was staring at her cause she looked over at me and mean mugged me before she laughed and clung on to my arm. “So ugly.” I said making her laughing continue as I took the tickets and the change from the lady. “Thank you.” I said as I placed both things in my back pocket. “You’re welcome. Enjoy your movie.” She said before she yelled out “Next in line please.” once again.

We had made our way into the building when Aleeyah had started yelling in my ear. “OOOOOO! CANDY CANDY! DADDY PLEASEEEEE!” I swear, you can never do anything nice for this child. “Aleeyah baby. Stop yelling. You already know your Daddy’s gonna get you whatever you want.” India said making Aleeyah sigh as she rested her head on my shoulder as I handed out tickets over to this dude. “Theater 4 on your left. Enjoy the movie.” He said before he unhooked the rope to let us through.

“What you want to eat Lo’?” I asked her as we waited in line at the concession stand. “Just some popcorn. And a Cherry Coke. Pweasee.” She said with a big ass smile on her face. “Anything for my Cinnamon Apple.” I said before I bent down to kiss her. 

“Oooooooooooooo bitch!” I heard someone say from behind us, making me turn around to see who it was. It was some girl but I ain’t know who she was. “TAZ!” Lo’ shouted before she ran over to where the girl was standing and gave her a hug. “I missed you. Oh my gosh. I haven’t seen you in forever. You look good.” Lo said as she scanned over her friend. ‘Females.’ I said to myself as I stepped forward in line. “Daddy. Can I get some gummy bears?” Aleeyah asked quietly as she picked her head up and looked at me. I smiled at her before nodding my head and kissed her on her forehead. “Of course baby.”

-

So we get out food and shit, and walk over to where this nigga said the movie was playin’ in, and the fucking door is locked. What kind of shit is this? “Xavier. We’re just early. Calm down.” India said as she was posted up on the wall on her phone.

“Aye. Pose fa’ a nigga.” I said as I took my phone out before taking her picture. “Yaas bitch. Werk.” I said snapping my fingers as I went to post the picture to my Instagram. 

xavier.alexander - #WCE 

“My baby is baaaaad.” I said as I rolled my neck making her and Aleeyah bust out laughing. “Daddy you so silly.” Aleeyah said as she hit my thigh while she was laughing. “Tell ‘em Yah Yah.” India said with a smile before she went back to doing whatever on her phone.