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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.

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."

"Willie, man, just tell her." Eddie supported Willie as the 16 year old Willie laid on his bed fiddling with his thumbs. Willie bit his lip nervously while the image of you and your radiated smile appeared in his mind.

Eddie then throws a pillow at Willie.

"Willie, you've been likin' Y/N for years..." Eddie points out. "Since we were kids." He adds. "Don't ya think it's time you tell her you want her to be your girl?"

"Thing is, it feels like we skippin' the datin' part 'n diving straight into the relationship." Willie points out. "My ma always say that there's a difference 'tween dating 'n a relationship."

"Y'all been holdin' hands, huggin', 'n y'all even shared a kiss 'n you almost was 'bout to get a job 'cause you thought she was pregnant." Eddie listed. "At that point, y'all are already datin' without realizin' it."

Willie laughed, remembering when he freaked out over the thought of you being pregnant.

"Oh, I was a cryin' mess back then but I can laugh 'bout that now." Willie sighed out.

"But you made it clear that you'd be there for Y/N." Eddie stated. "'N I know she was the same for you." He adds. "Remember when we were kids 'n she stuck up for you against me?" Eddie remembers.

"Yeah 'n that's how we first met too." Willie sighs out. "But what I really love about Y/N was that she had no problem stickin' up for what's right."

Eddie flubbed his lips.

"Yeah, I still remember the day she saved me 'n my mama from my daddy." Eddie remembered. "I still feel like to this day, I wouldn't even be alive 'f it wasn't for her."

Willie smiles at Eddie while Eddie returns the same smile.

"Willie, just tell her tomorrow at free time." Eddie encouraged. "The worst she could say is no."

Anxiety enters Willie's mind again as he thought,

"That's the point."

Willie watched from afar to see you sitting on the bench with Celie and Betty. He could hear the joy in your laughter, he could see the wind blowing through your long, coily hair, and he could feel the warm nature within your heart.

Willie stood there, fiddling with his pudgy and sweaty thumbs.

"Just tell her, "Hey I wanna be your man"." Willie thought to himself. "It's not that hard...you got this William."

However, whenever Willie tried to move, his legs felt like they were stuck to the ground. Willie then jumped when he felt a hand slap onto his shoulder.

"Mother-! Eddie!" Willie yelled out, holding his chest.

"Sorry, but I saw ya standin' here like you's a damn statue." Eddie chuckled out. "Based on that, you haven't told her yet?" He asked.

"I'm workin' on it." Willie defends. "Surprised you ain't asked Celie yet since you always thought that she was pretty." He adds in.

Eddie's face heated up.

"M-man, it was just an opinion." He stammered out. "'Sides this ain't about me, this 'bout you." Eddie adds in.

"I'm just sayin', how you gon' expect me to take advice from you when you ain't did the same?" Willie pointed out.

Eddie sucked in his teeth.

"Shut up 'n go tell Y/N 'cause it looks like trouble is comin'." Eddie tells Willie while pointing.

"What 'chu mean-"

Willie turned around to see Bernie 'n a few other white boys walking up to you, Celie, and Betty. He and Eddie frowned.

"What the hell are you doin' here?" Celie asked Bernie. "You not allowed on this side."

"Eh, we allowed to do what we want." Bernie chuckled out. "So, how's y'all doin'?"

You all tried to ignore him but Bernie grabbed your chin. You immediately snatched your face away from him.

"Don't touch me!" You yelled at him.

"Why? You like that shit." Bernie chuckled out like it was a joke.

"She is a cute lil' nigra." One of the boys commented.

"I kinda like the lil' one with the glasses." Another one commented.

Betty made a face in disgust.

"Ew! Digustin'!" She squealed out.

"Don't talk to my sister like that!" Celie scolded.

Bernie makes another attempt to grab your face only for you to reject it again. This angered Willie as it gave him the motivation to storm up to the bench.

"She said don't touch her." Willie spokes in a stern voice.

Bernie and the boys turned their attention towards Willie.

"Who told you to walk up to here fatass?" Bernie insults. "This ain't ya business."

"Yeah!"

"Mind your business, piggy!"

Willie didn't back down.

"When I see a boy harassin' a woman, it becomes my business." Willie fires at Bernie.

Bernie then storms up to Willie, inches away from his face.

"The hell you gon' do then?" Bernie challenged through gritted teeth.

Willie didn't say a word before he muttered out.

"I'll tell the teacher." He finally spoke.

It was silent for a second before Bernie and his crew burst out in laughter at Willie's empty threat.

"'N what the teacher gon' do?" Bernie asked. "'F they tried to do anythin' to us, we'll have 'em lynched by my daddy 'n great uncle." He threatened.

Bernie then grabs Willie by the shirt.

"Since I now know that you ain't a fighter, I can just roughen you up a bit." He spoke, voice filled with malice.

Bernie was then met with a shove to the ground by Eddie.

"Don't put ya hands on my cousin!" Eddie barked out.

You, Celie, and Betty were just sitting there watching. You then got up to tend to Willie.

"Willie, are you alrigh'?" You asked.

Willie couldn't help but soften at your caring nature.

"I'm fine now that I see you." He chuckled out, making you smile.

Bernie watched this then got up, both amused and pissed.

"Well, well, well, looks like fat nigger was only showin' out for some cooze huh?" He chuckled out.

You turned your attention towards Bernie.

"Leave 'im alone." You growled out. "You the one who came over here 'n started messin' with us."

"Yeah." Eddie agreed. "Why don't you get the hell outta here?"

"Make me." Bernie challenged.

You rolled your eyes.

"What are we? 8?" You scoffed. "'N this wouldn't be my first time fightin' a boy." You tell Bernie. "Ask Eddie."

"Yeah, she-hey!" Eddie exclaimed.

Bernie grabs your arm tight, making you wince.

"I ain't above hurtin' someone like you, so don't you-"

Before Bernie could finish his threat, Willie punched him in the stomach out of an instinct. Bernie fell to the floor, holding his stomach.

Willie immediately regretted his actions as Bernie slowly got up, face filled with rage.

"Alrigh' boy...since you wanna throw hands, how 'bout you 'n I figh' at the end of the week." Bernie challenged.

His crew went, "Ohhhhhhh!"

Before Willie could answer, Eddie jumped in.

"Oh, he'll fight you." He tells Bernie. "'N when he fucks you up, you better stay the hell away from this side of the school." Eddie adds in.

"You sayin' that like it's a guarantee." Bernie states with an evil smirk.

"It...is..." Eddie growled out.

"Alrigh', fine." Bernie agreed. "But 'f I win, I get to kill 'im...'n take his woman here." Bernie bets referring to you and Willie.

You gave a look of disgust while Willie looked like he was gonna shit bricks.

"Deal." Eddie agreed.

When Bernie and his crew walked off, Willie whirled his head at Eddie.

"Nigga, is you crazy?" Willie asked Eddie. "You basically just sent me to my death!" He yelled out.

Eddie wraps an arm around Willie and walks him away from you, Celie, and Betty.

"Listen, you gon' be fine." Eddie reassures Willie. "You big 'n strong enough to take 'im down."

"And?" Willie begins. "I ain't got into a fight befo'." He points out.

"What 'chu talkin' about?" Eddie questioned. "You've always wrestled with me."

"But did I win any of 'em?" Willie recalled.

Eddie grew silent before finally realizing his blunder.

"Oh..." Was all he could say.

"Look, I'm gon' go over to Bernie 'n tell 'im I ain't gon' do it." Willie declared as he began to walk off but Eddie stopped him.

"Or...or..." Eddie begins. "You can see this as an opportunity to prove how tough you are to Y/N." He stated while looking at you over his shoulder.

"Nope, it ain't worth my life." Willie declined. "I can't do it."

When Willie walked off, Eddie shook his head.

"That peckerwood gon' kill that boy." He thought to himself.

Later at night, Willie was tossing and turning in his bed, trying to catch some sleep when a nightmare began in his head.

"Y/N, there's sumthin' I wanna ask you?" Willie begins as he stood in front of you.

"Yes Willie?" You asked.

Willie gulped before asking,

"Will you be my girlfriend?"

You were silent for a second then let out a chuckle. The chuckle became a laugh and then the laughter grew louder and louder while Willie stood there dumbfounded.

"W-why's you laughin'?" Willie asked.

"Nigga, is you dumb?" You insulted. "Why would I want to be a girlfriend to a boy who can't even figh'"

Willie then looked around to see Eddie, Celie, and Betty all joining in with you on laughing and ridiculing him. Willie felt his face heat up with embarrassment.

Willie then noticed Bernie approaching you and wrapping an arm around you in a loving manner.

"Told you I'd take her from you." Bernie laughed out.

Willie reached out to you only to feel something wrap around his neck. Willie registered it as rope in the form of a noose as it began to pull him away from you. The more Willie tried to reach out to you, the more the noose grew tighter around his chubby neck to a point where he was suffocating within seconds.

"No...Y/N..." Willie choked out.

"Boy wake up!"

Willie felt something soft slap across his face then shot up to see Eddie at the side of the bed, holding a pillow.

"Eddie, wha?" Willie rasped out.

"You sounded like you were chokin' in your sleep." Eddie replied. "Almost had me thinkin' that you were havin' that dream when you were drowinin' again." He adds in.

"No...it's worse." Willie sighed out while placing his head in his hands. "I feel like such a punk."

"Is this about earlier?" Eddie asked.

Willie nods his head. Eddie sighs.

"Hey, I'm sorry I got you into this." Eddie apologized. "I'll tell Bernie that you don't wanna figh'."

"But what are the odds of 'im still plottin' to kill me even if I do back out?" Willie points out.

Eddie grew silent, not knowing how to answer that.

"I'm fucked either way." Willie groaned as he flopped back down on the bed.

Willie stared at the ceiling as if he was looking for a solution to his potentially deadly dilemma. However, a solution did cross Willie's mind as he shot back up.

"Wait! I think I know someone who'll help!" Willie exclaimed.

Eddie cocked an eyebrow at him.

"Really? Who?"

Smoke and Stack were in the house counting up the money of their weekly toll from Club Juke when Smoke heard a light knock on the door. Confused, Smoke got up in three strides and opened the door to see Willie and Eddie at the door, much to his subtle surprise.

"Boys? What y'all doin' here?" Smoke asked. "Y/N is with her mama 'n aunties, so she can't play today but I'll tell her that y'all stopped by." He informs the boys.

Eddie then realized what Willie was talking about the other night.

"Wait, wait, wait, you gon' have Y/N's papa fight your battle for you?" Eddie asked.

Smoke's eyebrows furrowed confused.

"Battle?" He asked. "What battle."

Willie responded to Eddie,

"No, I'm gon' ask him to teach me how to fight."

This got into the ears of Stack as he ran up to the door with a giddy smile on his face.

"So, you wanna learn how to fuck a nigga up, huh?" Stack chuckled out, flashing his gold tooth.

Willie nods his head.

"Please Mr. Moore 'n Mr. Moore." Willie begged. "My life's on the line for this."

"His actual life 'n his love li-"

Willie elbows Eddie in the arm.

"Ow!" Eddie exclaimed.

Smoke and Stack exchanged a look then looks back at Willie.

"What's goin' on?" Smoke asked. "'Cause why you comin' to us for help on this?"

"Some white boy challenged Willie to a figh', which is happenin' tomorrow 'n this boy here's about as soft as a stuffed bear." Eddie explained while pointing at Willie.

"Yeah he's-wait! Hey!" Willie scolded while snapping his head at Eddie.

"Am I wrong?" Eddie asked.

"No." Willie muttered out.

Smoke shook his head.

"Figured as much." He thought to himself. "'N what makes you think that we could help?" Smoke wondered.

"Well, you 'n Mr. Stack are the most feared men in the Delta." Willie pointed out. "Plus, ain't y'all soldiers 'n gangstas?"

"Kid's got a point." Stack agrees.

Smoke and Stack finally steps out of the house, accepting to help Willie. Smoke takes a good look at Willie.

"Well, I'll admit, you look like you have the strength to fight." Smoke analyzed. "Show me your punch." He orders Willie.

Willie raises a shaky fist while Smoke stands there, cool and waiting for the punch to happen. However, Smoke noticed Willie's nervous nature.

"Stop." Smoke spoke out, making Willie lower his fist. "You's too scared."

"C'mon man, you can't be scared." Stack tells Willie. "You gotta be tough, unbothered, 'n throw in some insults as well." He advised Willie.

"Yeah, throw in an insult." Eddie encouraged.

Willie looks at Smoke then stammers out,

"Y-you's goin' down punk."

Eddie facepalms.

"That's all you got?" He asked Willie. "You gotta be more creative than that."

"Ya cousin's right." Stack agrees. "When you insultin' someone, you gotta get personal, like talk about they mama."

"Ohh, now that's a classic." Eddie chuckled out. "Like say sumthin' like ya mama so white, she makes 2% milk jealous." He suggested.

"Or ya mama so fat that nobody was laughin' but the ground was crackin' up." Stack adds in as both of them laugh. Smoke just shook his head.

"Nah, I can't do that." Willie vetoes. "It ain't righ' to involve a woman into sumthin' she has no part in."

"That's sorta the point." Eddie stated.

"But what 'f I like his mama?" Willie asked, hypothetically.

"'F that was the case then you wouldn't be havin' to fight her son." Eddie pointed out.

"Plus, we know who his mama, papa, 'n great uncle is 'n they is not some nice people." Stack adds in.

"But what 'f his mama was dead?" Willie asked. "That would've made me an even bigger ass."

All three of the men sighed.

Smoke then motions Stack over to talk.

When the twins huddled up, Smoke spoke up first.

"I ain't gon' lie, this boy has no killer instincts." He admits.

"'N it makes me wonder what Y/N sees in that boy." Stack admits while looking over his shoulder at Willie then turning his attention back to Smoke. "What 'f he won't be able to protect Y/N?"

"She ain't gotta worry 'bout protection since we've been teachin' her how to shoot." Smoke rebuts.

"It's the chivalry behind it Smoke." Stack points out.

"What 'chu know about chivalry?" Smoke asked. "You was the same nigga who used to sell ass out in Lil' Rock."

"That was befo' I settled down with Mary." Stack hissed out. "But that's besides the point."

Smoke then huffs out.

A light bulb then pops up into Stack's mind.

"You sumthin', I may have an idea but I'm gon' have to call up the other fellas for this." Stack tells Smoke.

Smoke looked at his younger twin with furrowed eyebrows.

"What we need 'em for?"

You, Annie, and Mary were just coming back from a successful shopping day at the fabric arts store.

"These fabrics are so beautiful mama." You commented as you rubbed your fingers against a wine colored velvet fabric.

"Glad we had a good sale today too." Mary adds in. Annie smiles at the beaming look on your face.

"Can't wait to learn how to make a new dress." You thought to yourself. "Maybe wear it for Willie one of these da-"

"Ah! No! Get away!" You heard a male voice cry out coming from your house.

You all frowned, confused, as you thought,

"Wait, that sounded like Willie."

You hurried over to your front yard to see Smoke in his truck with Stack while Cornbread and Bo shot at Willie. Willie was doing his damnest to duck and dodge every single bullet that was zipping past him.

"Keep runnin' boy!" Stack yelled out. "We gotta get that stamina up!" He adds as Cornbread continues to shoot at Willie.

Eddie was just sitting on the porch watching the whole madness happening.

"Eddie what the hell y'all two doin' at my place?" You asked.

"Willie came to ya pops 'n uncle to teach 'im how to be tough 'n win a fight." Eddie explained.

The interaction from yesterday then dawned upon you as you let out a heavy sigh.

Smoke then noticed Annie standing there with her hands on her hips while shooting him an angry scowl.

"Stack, stop the truck." Smoke tells Stack.

Once Stack stopped the truck, Willie slowed down then stopped to catch his breath.

"That was...the most...exercise that I've gotten in my life..." Willie wheezed out before collapsing to the ground.

"Smoke what the hell y'all doin' chasing this po' boy around the damn house with guns?" Annie asks.

"Yeah Stack, why's y'all chasin' Y/N's friend?" Mary adds in.

"It's to build up his agility." Bo replied as he got out of the truck.

Willie was staring at the sun while his heart continued to beat rapidly from the adrenaline. His vision was going blurry when you hovered above him.

"Willie, are you okay?" You asked.

Willie smiled as he spoke,

"It's true...there are angels in Heaven."

Annie then kneels down in front of Willie.

"Willie, are you okay?" Annie asked as she helps Willie up.

"I'm...fine Mrs. Moore." Willie groaned out. "Just completely...outta breath."

"Willie, is this about what Bernie said yesterday?" You questioned.

Willie grew quiet, confirming your question.

"Willie, you don't have to figh' him if you don't want to." You reassured him.

"No, I got to." Willie declined, determination filling his body, as he got up.

"Well, baby, why don't you come inside to get you some juice?" Annie offered. "You've been runnin' for a good spell."

"Thank you Mrs. Moore." Willie thanked as he followed her inside.

When Willie sat down at the table, Annie sat across from him.

"Alrigh' Willie, what's the real reason you wanna figh'?" She immediately asked him.

Willie was stunned.

"W-what?" He stammered out.

"C'mon now, I know you ain't the fightin' type." Annie points out. "Me 'n Y/N both know that."

Willie didn't say a word as Annie raised an eyebrow.

"Is it about Y/N?" Annie guessed.

Willie slouched down in the chair, confirming that Annie's guess was correct. Willie then finally speaks.

"I...I wanted to figh' to prove that I'm tough...so that Y/N will be my girlfriend." He explained. "I feel like 'f I ain't tough or if I lose the fight, Y/N wouldn't like me."

Annie then chuckles, which made Willie feel embarrassed.

"I know it's dumb but-"

"No, no, sweetie I ain't laughin' at you." Annie assured him. "It's just...Y/N's daddy was the same when he 'n I were young adults." She recalls.

Willie's eyes grew wide a bit in subtle shock.

"Really?" He asked.

Annie looked around to see if Smoke was nearby then leaned in closer.

"Don't tell 'im I told you this but her daddy was in a similar scenario to you 'n he ended up losin' because the guy he was fightin' was a more skilled fighter." Annie whispered.

Willie couldn't believe that the stoic and strong willed Smoke got into a fight and lost.

"Was he embarrassed?" Willie asked.

Annie nods her head.

"He was beatin' himself up over it, thinkin' that I would've fallen outta love with him." She replied. "But, it only made me love 'im more 'cause in a way it showed that he cared about me."

"So, you still became his woman after that?" Willie asked.

"The point is...win or lose, I know my daughter." Annie concludes. "She'll still like you either way 'n I know 'cause you would always be the first thing to come out of her mouth when she comes home from school."

Willie bit his lip to fight the smile that was about to form on his face.

Annie then places her hands onto Willie's shoulders.

"And..." She begins. "If y'all do become a couple in the future...you have my blessin'." Annie tells Willie.

"T-thank you Mrs. Moore." Willie stammered out.

When Willie stepped out of the house, he was beaming with confidence, which caught everyone's attention.

"What's he all smiley fo'?" Cornbread asked.

"Either he's ready or that's a dead man walkin'." Stack replied.

"FIGHT! FIGHT! FIGHT!" All the kids chanted as Willie took a deep breath.

"Willie, are you sure you wanna do this?" Eddie asked him.

Willie nods his head.

"'F I die today...I'll ask the Lord to take my soul." Willie thought to himself.

You placed a hand on his shoulder.

"Just...be careful Willie." You tell him. "I have a bad feelin' about this."

"I'll be fine." Willie assured you while gripping your hand in a loving manner. "Just promise me no matter what, you wouldn't jump in."

You nodded your head but your heart was racing with nerves.

When Willie got into the center of the crowd, Bernie was standing there with his arms crossed.

"Huh, ya actually showed up huh?" He asked. "Thought you would've ran off shittin' your pants."

Willie balled up his fists.

"Let's do this." Willie spoke out.

Before Willie could throw the first punch, he felt someone punch him in the back of his head, knocking him to the ground.

Willie looked up to see two of Bernie's henchmen towering over him. It didn't take Willie long to realize that they were going to help Bernie.

"Cletus, Albert, get 'im!" Bernie shouts out.

His henchmen, Cletus and Albert, wasted no time throwing punches and kicks at Willie's body while everyone yelled and cheered.

Willie rolled over to avoid the blows then got up and clocks Cletus to the ground. He then grabs Albert by the shoulders to bring him down to the ground.

"Yeah Willie!" Eddie yelled out.

Willie felt his confidence rise as he continued to push and punch at Cletus and Albert, which made Bernie grow nervous. Bernie then decided to play dirty as he scoops up some dirt and chucks it at Willie's face. Willie yells out as the dirt blinded his vision. You grew angry.

"Hey! No dirt throwin'!" You called out.

"Says who?" Bernie asked.

Willie, in a literal blind rage, tried to charge at Bernie only for Bernie to side step, causing Willie to fall. Bernie then kicks Willie in the nose, making blood gush out immediately.

"Fuck! That hurts!" Willie grunted out.

Cletus then grabs Willie's shirt as Albert comes up to them. Bernie and Albert then took turns punching Willie in the stomach and face, which upsetted you and your friends.

"That's not fair! There's 3 of 'em!" Celie shrieked out.

"Willie's already at an disadvantage!" Betty adds in.

You were fighting the urge to jump in but you couldn't due to the promise you made to Willie, so all you had to do was watch helplessly as Willie continued to get beaten up. Bernie then felt his bloodlust rage fill his heart as he wrapped his hands around Willie's chubby neck.

"I'm already winnin', so might as well do what I wanted to do two days ago." Bernie growled out as he squeezed Willie's throat.

Willie couldn't pry him off due to Cletus and Albert holding his arms back. Willie was gasping for air as Bernie continued to strangle him. He then looks over his shoulder to see the worried and sad look on your face. That was the last thing Willie saw before things went to black.

When you heard Willie's body hit the ground, that set you off completely.

"Uh uh!" You exclaimed as you attempted to charge at Bernie but Celie and Eddie held you back.

"Told you! Told you I'd kill ya boy!" Bernie laughs out loud.

"WILLIE GET UP!" You screamed out while Eddie and Celie held you back.

"Y/N no! You promised not to jump in!" Eddie yelled at you.

"But he's not fightin' fair! Willie get up!" You cried out.

Willie began to stir awake while Bernie had his back turned, celebrating his win. He could hear you screaming and begging for him to get up. This began to motivate him as Willie began to slowly get up then cracked his jaw. He was seeing red.

Willie yells out while charging at Bernie, knocking him to the ground. Willie then grips Bernie's hair and begins to slam his head down repeatedly, filled with nothing but heated and raw rage.

Cletus and Albert were about to intervene only for you and Eddie to push them down to the ground.

"No! The! Fuck! You! Don't!" Eddie roared out between punches.

You screamed as you clawed at Cletus' face.

It was now an equal match with you clawing at Cletus, Eddie punching Albert, and Willie slamming Bernie down on the ground.

You and Eddie were done but Willie wasn't as he continued.

Eddie noticed blood coming onto the ground.

"Hey, Willie...that's enough." Eddie tells Willie, trying to get him to stop but Willie's anger was growing at an alarming rate as he continued.

"I'm not stoppin' until this bastard is dead!" Willie thought to himself.

"Willie, he's done!" Eddie called out a bit louder.

Willie ignored him.

That was when you stepped in and grabbed Willie's shoulders.

"WILLIE THAT'S ENOUGH!" You screamed out. "HE'S DONE!"

Willie quickly whirled out, making you fall to the ground. You laid there frozen in fear as Willie towered over you with eyes black as coal and face covered in bruises and blood. However, Willie's red seeing rage evaporated once he saw the fear in your eyes.

"Y-Y/N..." He stammered out. "I'm so sorry." Willie quickly apologized as he helped you up. "Are you alrigh'?"

You nodded your head then you turned your attention to Bernie, who was still on the ground unconscious.

The crowd began to murmur.

"Is he dead?"

"Did he kill 'im?"

"Big boy went crazy."

Betty stepped up and flipped Bernie over. You winced at the sight of Bernie's face covered in blood and his nose completely bent to the side. You were pretty sure that it was broken. Betty placed her fingers onto the side of Bernie's neck to check a pulse. Willie grew worried, thinking that he committed murder.

"He's still alive." Betty confirmed, which put Willie at ease.

"Okay, he's still alive..." Willie sighed out.

Eddie then grabs Willie's wrist and raise in the air, announcing Willie's victory.

"We have a winner!" Eddie yelled out as the crowd cheered.

Willie stood there in shock, trying to process if he really won the fight.

"W-what?" He stammered out.

"You won!" You squealed out as you hugged Willie tight while laughing.

"I-I won?" Willie stuttered out while looking at the unconscious Bernie, finally registering his victory.

"YOU WON MAN!" Eddie laughed out loud. "YOU THE MAN!"

"I...I'm the man..." Willie chuckled out.

"Ow!" Willie hissed out as you continued to dab at his bloody nose.

"Hold still, I almost got all the blood." You tell him.

"Thank you for cleanin' me up." Willie thanked you.

"Y'know I'll always do this for you." You replied with a small smile.

It was silent for a second before Willie spoke again.

"Hey, Y/N?"

You hummed in response.

"Would...you find it stupid that I went with that figh' for you?" Willie asked.

You raised an eyebrow.

"What 'chu mean?" You asked.

"Well, I was...nervous about askin' you to be my girlfriend 'cause I thought you wouldn't want me since I ain't the fightin' type." Willie nervously explained. "So, I went to your papa 'n uncle for help 'cause I wanted to prove to you that I'm not soft 'n that you'd want to be my girlfriend." He continued.

You sighed.

"Willie, I've been knowin' you since we were kids." You began. "You've always been the sweetest boy ever to me."

"'N you've always been the most helpful 'n heroic." Willie commented.

"Willie, you ain't have to fight in order to get me to like you." You told him. "You already did that."

"I...did?" Willie asked.

You sucked in your teeth.

"Willie, we held hands, shared a kiss, 'n you almost got a job at 12 'cause you thought I was pregnant from that kiss." You recalled.

"Yeah...that was stupid." Willie chuckled out.

"'N you worried that I'd reject you after all that?" You asked.

Willie nods his head.

"I...just...I like you Y/N 'n I want to show you that I wanna be there for you every time." Willie confesses. "Y-you just make me feel like I can be myself 'n I always enjoyed having you around from when we were kids 'n-mmmph!"

Willie's monologue was cut short as you pressed your lips against his. Willie's eyes grew wide while he sat there frozen in shock. Willie then melts into the kiss as he cups your face, returning the kiss back. You then pulled away.

"Y'know you ramble too much righ'?" You teased.

Willie then gives you a sly smirk.

"Mind shuttin' me up like that again then?" He asked as he slowly got up. You chuckled as you leaned in for another kiss.

When y'all pulled away, Willie cupped your face into his large palms.

"So, is that a yes to bein' my girlfriend?" Willie asked.

"Yes Willie, it is." You replied while placing your hands on his chest.

Willie then pressed his forehead against yours while letting out a happy hum.

"I'm the man...I'm the man indeed." He thought to himself.

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.

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.