#thefreshmanseries

 “James…oh…. please…”

“hmmm?” his lips parting hers, allowing his tongue to swim in the ocean that has formed in anticipation  

“Never stop.” He isn't nearly finished with her, inserting two fingers to add to the sensation she feels.

“I want…your dick" she moans, and he uses his fingers to hold her lips open while strumming her clit like a guitar.

“Oh fuck…oh fuck…Daddy, I'm gonna…” he quickly puts his tongue on her clit, flicking than sucking, enjoying how wet she's become. Her legs start to shake as she feels every movement of his tongue.

He's never been so thorough before, his tongue licking every inch of her pussy, inside and out. Her moans are short and urgent, as though she's out of breath. He sucks on her clit again and while he tastes her completion, he flows down his shaft.

“Oh. My. Goodness. How did you get better at eating my pussy?”

“I became your husband. “

“Even you came!”

“I'm excited about how delicious my wife's pussy taste"

“Let's go to bed, my nasty hubby"

“Okay, let me clean my dick off"

“Babe...”

“Yes?”

Vivian gets on her knees in front of him and swallows his dick, feeling it go stiff in her mouth

“Yesss baby"

She immediately starts slurping, remembering the noise drives James wild. She loves the feel of his hard dick (anywhere) in her, giving her the juicy mouth for the kind of wet, messy blow job he loves to get.

Taking him in her throat each in and out repetition he closes his eyes, lost in the comfort that her mouth provides. Lost in the joy he feels from having his dick in her mouth. She starts to lick his balls and the underside of his shaft jacking him off while she does it. The bead of pre-cum glistening the head of his dick does not deter her from sucking on it, his most sensitive part, until she's deep throating him again. With the gentle glide of her nails down his chest to his waist as he rests in her mouth, he reaches his limit, grabbing her hair and she finally releases his dick from her mouth.

“There. You're clean now.”

He gently pulls her up from her knees to kiss her

“You're amazing. I’ma fuck you so hard, guarantee a baby will find their way to the womb"

She laughs, “Let's wait on that, Logan is still an infant. Newborn! We should call to check on him. I’m sure my parents are spoiling him, but we have to make sure they remember to alternate weeks with your parents while we're on trial.”

“So, no more nasty time? We're having parent talk now? Okay. We'll call in the morning before we leave for court. “

“Great!” she kisses his lips, throws on her nightgown and gets in the bed “I love my baby daddy!”

He searches for some PJ pants to put on and gets in bed after finding them “I love my wife.”

 **

THE PEOPLE V. BLACK MAMBA DAY 2

PROSECUTION

 “Your honor we'd like to present video evidence A" the prosecutor inserts a small disc to play on the television showing James walking into the café with Comfort and Vivian's seemingly empty car is parked across the street. It cuts off to show James with other women, each time Vivian's car is there. 

“People of the jury, this video shows the defendant in the vicinity of the café every time Mr. Ashton visited.”

The jury murmurs and some seem to be taking notes.

“Prosecution calls Comfort Greene to the stand.”

James' eyes go wide, he never even considered Comfort would testify against Vivian although it makes perfect sense. Comfort has always labeled Vivian as guilty.

Comfort walks to the stand, clearly dressed in hope of gaining James attention, while maintaining the professionalism that is expected in court.  James only feels annoyed that someone he knows dares to testify against his wife.

After being sworn in, the prosecutor asks

“Ms. Greene, how do you know Mr. Ashton?”

“He’s my ex-boyfriend.”

“And how long were you two together?”

“We dated a while before we became a couple. We dated for about three months. We were a couple for two.”

“During your relationship, did the defendant interfere at any time?”

“She was the reason he wouldn't commit to me and eventually the reason we broke up. She and James have a child together so that also kept her in our lives.”

“And you say you have evidence of her bad behavior?” Comfort hands the judge a picture, “After James left me for her, she did this.” The picture shows Vivian with her middle finger up hanging out the passenger side of her husband's ride.

“Your honor., I object. How do we know when this picture was taken?”

“Ms. Green, can you address that?”

“Yes, your honor. The picture is time-stamped in the lower right-hand corner and I have multiple copies on my phone with the date as well. It will match the day he came over.”

“Objection overruled"

“Thank you, Ms. Greene. No further questions” the prosecutor takes a seat, allowing the judge to speak to the defense lawyer.

“Does the defense wish to question the witness?”

“Yes, your honor” Michael walks to the stand

“Ms. Greene, did my client ever get involved in your relationship?”

“Objection your honor, asked and answered.” the prosecutor argues

“Sustained. Find another way to ask your question, Mr. Board.”

“Were you two friends?”

“No.”

“Enemies?”

“James never conducted an official meeting between us except the day Reyna died.”

“It is safe to say that you two don't know each other?”

“Umm. Yeah.” Comfort thinks for a moment but ultimately agrees.

“And yet you're convinced of her guilt.”

Comfort is silent as the jury scribbles and mumbles more.

“No further questions. You are dismissed, Ms. Greene.”

With barely a second of “empty air", the prosecutor calls attention to himself, 

“People of the jury, the defendant had an empty vial in the purse she used the day she and the victim went to the coffee shop which she scoped her supposed lover entertaining multiple women at. This was a revenge murder. Reyna Mercado was a friend to Mr. Ashton and she mistakenly thought she had a friend in the defendant as well. Don't let her murder be in vain. The prosecution rests.”

“We will reconvene tomorrow to hear the arguments of the defense. Court is adjourned.” The judge hits the gavel, and all begin to speak to one another. James and Vivian walk hand in hand alongside Michael.

Once outside the courtroom, Vivian is hardly able to control the fear flowing from her voice in urgency.

“They're building a case against me. Did you see that evidence? and James former failed replacement testified against me!”

“of all the things you've called her, replacement is the worst. She could never replace you.”

Vivian grabs James' cheeks, “That’s why I said FAILED replacement, honey.” She lets him but continues “They're making me look like a vengeful murderess. As though I'd harm anyone who poses a threat to my relationship.”

“To our marriage “James corrects her

“Why are you focused on the details? For goodness sake, they know we've only been married a few days. You said I'd be okay with you by my side. What happened!?”

Feelings just a little hurt, he ignores that and replies “I'm still here and you're still okay. Why are you so worried? There still isn't enough evidence for a conviction. Baby, you're innocent. That will prevail. I know it will. Michael? You're the lawyer. Tell her some legal stuff.”

James steps aside to reveal Michael cowering behind him. Michael stands straight, straightening his fie and blazer. He places a hand on Vivian's shoulder, “Mrs. Ashton, the only thing that prosecution did was paint a hazy image of you.” He clears his throat before continuing, “We have better witnesses. Better evidence, and better information in general to paint a much clearer image. We have what it takes to prove your innocence. Honestly, between you and me. I could get a guilty man off. I’m the best. Don't worry.” Vivian looks at Michael and visibly calms down.

“Okay, but can we talk about why you were hiding behind my husband? My lawyer needs to know how to handle confrontation. “

“I do. I just don't like it.

“Okaaaay… “Vivian walks over to James, placing a peck on his neck before grabbing his hand to hold.

Michael addresses them both “We're up tomorrow. You guys ready!?”

Catching Vivian and James ending a kiss only after hearing his question

“What? Yeah, of course “James speaks, unable to hide his smile

“I'm going to head to my office and let you lovebirds be. Call me if you need me.”

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Four months later, Vivian is the only suspect in Reyna’s murder although they cannot link the poison to Vivian as the autopsy revealed Reyna’s cause of death as extreme amounts of black mamba venom. They did find an empty vial in Vivian’s purse which is the sole reason she is a suspect. Out on bail, thanks to James, she gave birth to a healthy boy who currently resides with his father.

After putting Logan down to sleep, James sits down to dial Comfort.

“Hey hun"

“Hey C, where are you?”

“Almost at your place”

“Good. Logan misses you.”

“Oh, does he? Logan's got some explaining to do"

“Uh oh.”

“I'm here.” She hangs up the phone and opens the door.

Comfort walks in wearing her usual type of outfit. An oversized top, formfitting jeans, and heels. The top is so long it hides the part of her bottom half that James likes to see the most.

“You look nice" he kisses her lips.

After the kiss, “I'm going to see Logan. Sit down, hun. I'll be right back.”

Seconds later she returns from the nursery and sits on the couch beside James.

 “He's sleeping.”

“Hopefully for a while. He’s quite the night owl.”

“That’s the complete opposite of you.”

James' eyes scrunch in confusion, why does she think I’m not a night person at all? I can hang late at night. Shouldn’t she know this by now?

“I guess. But it’s exactly like his mother.”

Comfort rolls her eyes,

“Why are you talking about murderers?”

“You know I believe in her innocence. Regardless, she’s still Logan’s mom.”

“She's a murderer which brings me to my next point. James. You paid for her LEGAL TEAM!?” raising her voice in absolute disapproval of what he’s done.

“Yes. She's Logan's mom”

“Babe. She's a damn MUR👏🏼DER👏🏼ER"

James smiles, “You called me babe.”

Like Vivian used to.

Her mouth flat and eyes full of anger

“Listen, if she gets free you will be responsible for a murderer on the loose. She's obsessed with you so I'm next and when I wind up dead it's on you. Know that.”

“Comfort, I'm sorry we disagree about her role in Reyna's murder but she's Logan's mother and I’m always going to look after the mother of my child.”

“Okay honey remember you said that when I'm dead and you ultimately end up back with her because you're soft for her.”

“Soft for her? Comfort, we were together for nine years. She's the mother of my son. I have a right, no – a VALID REASON to stay in her life and excuse me for being polite and using the money I have for things” He takes a breath before he continues, “and PEOPLE that are important to me! I’m only looking out for her.” His tone is elevated, he’s standing and looking at her with furrowed brows as he speaks. How dare she speak so ill of Vivian!

She stands up and gets in his face,

“Really James? Do you think raising your voice is gonna back me down off of the fact that you’re taking care of a murderer? I don’t care how long you were together, she’s a killer and this is not cool. You need to have a seat, get the hell outta my face and go tell her to stay in her damn place!”

Feeling even more frustrated, he sits down without a word. Comfort remains standing.

“Exactly. Sit down. Don’t try to argue with me about that damn murderer. I got this argument.”

Did she just tell me what to do?

Nothing. James says nothing.

“You act like you're still together. The only difference is that you're having sex with me and I have a key to your apartment.”

“Are you saying you think this is only about sex?”

“I hope not.”

 “I’ll talk to her, okay?” He has no intention of talking to her about this situation. She’s innocent and not even Comfort can convince him otherwise.

“That’s all I’m asking, at least. Man up.” James thoughts linger to Vivian. She would never talk to him this way, nor would she be so demanding.

“Okay, well…”

“Um, yeah, I’ll call you later, okay?” Comfort attempts to kiss James though he bends as if he’s looking for something and she leaves.

What Comfort doesn’t know is that James also paid her bail, so by her definition he’s already let a murderer loose.

**

Vivian sits at home alone. Thinking of the situation she's gotten herself in when her phone rings "Sweet Love" and steals her attention. Upon grabbing the phone, she sees its lit with notification. Today is...or would have been, her 10th anniversary with James. Imagining how amazing the day and night would have been if they were together and if she were not facing a murder conviction leads her to dial James. 

"Hey James"

"Hey" she can hear the tiniest cry near the phone. 

"Awww is that Logan?"

"Of course, it is. I'm feeding him."

"Can I come by? Do you have company already?" He knows she's asking about Comfort. She always avoids saying her name. Is Comfort equivalent to Voldemort to Vivian? 

"Only Logan and I are home. Come by." 

"I miss my baby. See you soon" she hangs up the phone and heads to James apartment.  

Once there, she kisses James on the cheek and sets her purse and keys on the table. Removing her coat reveals the low cut, form-fitting shirt she is wearing. He gets lost remembering the way she'd call him Daddy when he'd bite her nipples simply by staring at her top and maybe a little from the warm familiarity of her perfume. But he is pulled from his memories when Vivian repeats "I'm gonna go see Logan.” Until he responds “Okay.”

She walks to the nursery and rocks baby Logan in her arms while singing. "ABCDEF is for Frugal which your father is not. And hey! Father. F is for father GH is for Hoe. The kind of partner you shouldn't commit to IJ..." James walks in "Those ABC's don't sound appropriate for an infant." He smiles, only to show that he is not chastising her. "He'll know his letters and some adult lessons by the time he's three. He'll be a scholar and know how to avoid getting hurt. He'll be better than his mom. He'll be like his dad." 

James walks behind her wrapping her in his embrace, hands rested on her stomach 

"You're a wonderful woman." She softly places Logan in his crib

"I wasn't good enough for you."

He releases her from his embrace only to make her face him,

"Vivian, are you kidding me? You're the love of my life. You don't seem to understand the change I had to go through after realizing that you were not committed to me. It broke my entire person. But I emerged."

"And started dating her. I pushed you to her and that’s who you share your happiness with.”

“It’s not happy” Fuck! I shouldn’t have said that. Vivian doesn’t need to hear about this…

“What’s wrong, James? Why aren’t you happy?”

“Okay,” he visually relaxes after deciding its okay to share this with Vivian.

“We argued and she talked down to me. Spoke to me like I were an idiot. You know how intensely I feel for words. She changed the way I see her plus I’m still mad.”

She steps closer to James “So now she's talking you crazy. Treating you like less of a man. Babe. You don’t deserve that.”

James is hardly able to resist Vivian, she's like kryptonite to him, but with the strength he has he says “Give me a second, gotta take advantage of this time while you're here with Logan" he laughs heading toward the bathroom.

Vivian can't help but notice James phone left on the baby`s changing table.

“My trusting lover never fails me" she laughs at the ZERO methods of protection on his phone and looks for her name “Vivian (Logan's mother)” to change it to “Soul Mate (Logan's Mother).” She's proud of her son, there’s no reason to change that. Next, she looks for Comfort. And finds her under “My everything (Comfort ❤).” Thank goodness for his parenthesis or she wouldn't ever find her. She changes her name to “Temporary Bitch (Comfort)” and puts his phone down. Just in time as he is walking back to her.

Now in the living room, James returns to Vivian

“Thanks for allowing me that quick shower. I felt pretty grimy. Logan doesn't deserve a grimy dad" he laughs

She joins in the laughter.  “You're definitely the type for Dad jokes.” 

“Oh, I'm a comedian. Comfort has extracted parts of me I didn't know existed.”

“Did she do that when she was screaming at you what to do?”

James is silent. Vivian knows exactly how to finish James, how to make herself irresistible to him.

“Hey, come here” she grabs his hand, pulling him into the bedroom and sitting on the bed. She gets on her knees behind him, massaging his shoulders.

“Close your eyes. Just relax to my touch…Daddy”

James is ready to relax but the flame ignites when she calls him Daddy. He turns his head around to look at her and they begin to kiss as attempts to pull her unto his lap. The movements are a little tricky, but she ends up on his lap as they continue kissing.  He pulls away long enough to say,

“I need you, Viv" before returning immediately to kissing her, deepening the kiss unknowing where to let his hands roam. For once, he just wants to kiss her until they share breaths, but she pulls away

“I missed you so much"

“I missed you too, Viv. I didn’t know how much.”

“Will you come to court with me tomorrow?”

“Yeah, of course.” He kisses her. “I'll be there every day. I testify on Tuesday.” He kisses her again.

“I love you so much"

Vivian smiles, laying her head on James' shoulder. She’s getting everything she wanted in spite of Comfort still being alive.

“I love you too, James"

“Stay here. I’ll be with you tomorrow anyway.” His fingers combing through her hair as she sits on his lap.

“What about your place holder?”

He laughs when she refers to Comfort as “place holder"

“Who cares. She predicted this would happen anyway.”

“She predicted us getting back together?” she laughs

“Yup. She said I`m soft for you…but I'm definitely not soft right now"

She laughs even harder, “Freaky as ever! I missed that.”

They kiss. “It feels like home being back with you. It will be us forever, baby. You, me and Logan."

 “Yup."

**

DAY 1

THE PEOPLE VS. BLACK MAMBA

Both sides have presented their argument and Vivian stands with James and her attorney

“Sounds like the prosecution has no real evidence against you. They only called upon the testaments of forensic professionals. We're going to win.” The lawyer looks at James, “Who is this? Who are you? Vivian, are you entering a new witness?”

Vivian giggles and grabs hold of James' hand, “No. Michael. He paid for you to defend me"

Michael straightens his stance and offers his hand to shake “Mr. Ashton! Michael Board. It's nice to meet you, sir"

James laughs briefly while shaking his hand, “You're thinking of my dad. You can call me James.”

“Jay, Jim, Jimmy" he points finger guns toward James with expecting eyes.

“James.” James' voice is unmoving in tone, indicating tedium.

Vivian moves closer to James, still holding his hand “You can tell him anything. He's should be included in all of it.” James raises their intertwined hands to kiss hers.

“Are you married to James? Vivian, this will be amazing for your image.”

“Well, n-" James cuts of Vivian before she can finish answering

“Yes. I’m her husband.” He stares in her eyes as he speaks

“Perfect! The jury will not convict our brand-new mother and wife when she’s got no evidence tying her to this murder. Mrs. Ashton, consider this case won!” Michael is trying his best not to break out his “We're winning” dance moves when Vivian and James are still locked holding hands and staring into one another's eyes.

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“Ohhhh…” James can't control his moaning. His dick between her breasts, he stops thrusting to focus on savoring the feel of her lips around the head of his member. She can't stop moaning either, his dick in her mouth as he runs his thumbs repeatedly over her erect nipples. Her moans are becoming louder and lasting longer each time his dick pops in and out of her mouth. Her appetite for him is as insatiable as his for her and she'd suck his dick all night if he never stopped her. Her lips around his dick is a sensation he’s addicted to feeling though his desire to taste her becomes overwhelming and he immediately moves off of her to lower his face between the thighs he loves so much. No words are spoken before his tongue meets the lips of her pussy, delving inside to find the treasure he seeks. “Daddy" she moans in a whisper, hands on the back of his head, resisting the urge to push his face until its smashed against her pussy. She can feel the vibrato of his baritone groans as he feasts on her center, her limbs writhing involuntarily responding to his tongue until he moves up to speak “This pussy is so damn perfect “ he licks her slit, “tastes amazing “ inserting a couple fingers to play a little before pushing himself up to lie on top of her, aligning his hips with hers releasing a loud grunt upon insertion “Its wetter, warmer than ever before" he starts to thrust “Faster Daddy, harder" and he increases the speed of his thrusts. She likes it rough and being pregnant hasn’t changed that. “Harder, baby I can take it.” James is devoted to giving her exactly what she wants. Bracing himself by gripping onto the couch they're lying on, he thrust powerfully into her pussy causing her to scream his name. He loves the sound of her pleasure scream, especially when she’s calling his name and he continues to thrust until her moan sounds like a balloon that's losing air, a decrescendo, a downward whistle.  Pleased knowing that he has satisfied Vivian, he quits thrusting though remains on top of her, inside of her.

Vivian only smiles before sitting up to kiss his cheek, letting him know to get up so she can get dressed. It has only been a couple of weeks since they’d agreed on a temporary separation that they didn’t seem to be adhering to considering they're still sleeping together. Once her dress is over her head, “James, tomorrow we have a prenatal appointment. I'll call you.”

“I wish you'd just stay. You're carrying our baby. You should be here with me.”

“It’s too hard to live with you and not be with you. Plus, I call you for every single thing. Appointment. Tomorrow. Okay?”

“Of course. Call me when you get home. Or at least text me that you're safe.”

“Okay James “

Without so much as a farewell kiss, she leaves the apartment that was once home to her and drives minutes away to her new place. James is fully aware that a friend helped her with her place though he is unaware that the friend in question is Shaun. He invites himself over all the time. He’s even got a key meant to be used professionally since he is the maintenance man for this complex as well, but he pops in to visit Vivian regardless of business nature. Shaun is walking the hall when Vivian arrives home.

As confident as ever. “Hey, sexy" he flashes his golden smile that usually flusters her thoughts completely.

“Just left James. We had sex.” Stating facts as coldly as she could, hoping to deter Shaun from any flirtation although she left the door open for him to follow after her. Of course, he does.

“I guess I can get why you wanna sleep with your baby's father that you're separated from. There’s still love there, right?” Surprised that he isn’t calling James “money bags” or making fun of him in any other way, she continues talking about James.

“I love him so much and I wish he'd drop this separation bs. I'm pregnant by him. What does he think I'm going to do?”

“This separation won't last long. He won't wanna be away from you or that baby for too long"

“Thanks for listening, Shaun. I didn’t realize I needed to complain."

“Anytime, sexy" that smile. This time Vivian notices his smile and finds herself stuttering when encouraging him to leave

“Um..se-se-see you tomorrow?”

“No question.” He walks out the door, she shuts it behind him and falls on the couch irritated thinking about calling James when she should be lying in bed beside him, she texts him at his request for safety assurance. He responds to the text by calling her.

“I’m glad you’re home safe. You could have been at home if you continued living here.”

He can’t see her roll her eyes at his words, but he can certainly hear the snarky attitude when she snaps back at him,

“End this dumb separation. Let’s just be together and I’ll come right now.”

Silence. She speaks again,

“Exactly. So, shut up about my living situation and I’ll see you tomorrow. “

“Don’t act so innocent Viv. I have trust issues, yes but I also WANT to be with you. Can you blame me for being scorn? Afraid? Cautious?”

“I’m not trying to act innocent. I just miss your kisses. I miss being wrapped in your arms. I miss lying beside you. I miss everything about us.”

“Let’s keep working on it; on being 'us' again. For starters, we can converse about the happenings in our lives."

She grabs a bag of Chex Mix to start snacking, munching by the handful. Even eating the bagel crisps she usually hates.

"Well, James, next week I'll officially be two months along. We have an appointment tomorrow.  There’s nothing else going on in my life.” she speaks in a monotone to accentuate her boredom with daily life sans James.

"Don’t underestimate how largely important that is. What I have to say fails to compare with pregnancy but, it's all I've got."

"I'm all ears"

"My parents are having a soiree honoring a partnership my father has made in business.  His business partner Jeff and his wife are relinquishing a good amount of control to my dad. I thought it'd be kind to give them a gift upon arrival. "

"Okay. What'd you have in my mind?"

"They love spending time at the spa. I was thinking of getting them a $1,000 gift card to a spa."

"For $1,000? James. Are you crazy? These people are not special to you.  No. That's stupid. "

"It’s polite. Everything costs so much these days. Spa treatments are expensive. A thousand dollars is like dimes and nickels "

"It’s too much. You wanna be polite? 80 bucks. 100 max. 1,000? James, what the hell? When did you become so dense? You’re the first to remind me that we have a baby on the way to take care of, but you're gonna drop a thousand bucks on a gift for your parents’ friends? Use your brain, James. I can't even deal with you right now. I gotta go " she hangs up the phone without waiting for James’ response. While changing into her pajamas she notices her a low on her phone. It's James calling. She can see his face as the phone vibrates, rolling her eyes while ignoring his call, she gets into bed; James calling again, as she drifts into a sweet slumber.

*

The night passes and Vivian awakens still feeling annoyed with James for being so careless with his money. The idea of talking to him gives her a headache and thinking about their appointment today makes the headache worse. Walking toward the bathroom she hears the clicking of her front door being unlocked and knows its Shaun. She turns directions back toward the living room to meet him,

"You can at least knock as a warning. What if I were naked?"

Shaun smiles. A smile the seems so golden. Like everything else should instantly be in glee after he smiles. "That's what I'm hoping for."

"Whatever perv." and they stand staring in one another's eyes in silence for seconds that feel like minutes. Usually, Vivian can shake this off but this time, she stumbles. Struggling to find words to change the conversation from this silent flirting. Fixing a piece of hair behind her ear she exclaims, "James!” successfully snapping out of her Shaun induced trance.  Shaun's expression of confusion is so pronounced, she would claim she could see the question marks floating around his head until she continues speaking “Um...James kinda irritated me last night."

"What'd he do?"

"He wants to gift his dads’ friend a thousand bucks. I know they’re financially set but doesn’t he know priorities? We’re having a baby and he’s just giving money away. To people he doesn't even know. For his dad!" Her chest bounces and ponytail come a little loose after her animated gesturing when explaining to Shaun

"Damn sexy, why you do your moneybags boyfriend like that?"

"He's supposed to be smart and he’s not my boyfriend. "

It was the first time she denied claim on James and Shaun notices.

"So can you take me to my appointment? I'm going without him. I'll make up an excuse. I don't wanna see him."

"Yes, I'll take you but I'm also staying.  You shouldn't be by yourself if you've got someone around during your pregnancy. Deal?"

"Deal. Let's go."

She begins walking out the door when Shaun puts his arm out to stop her

"You're forgetting something, sexy" he looks at her from head to feet.

"Oh yeah. I gotta shower. Come with?"

"Come on, sexy. Why you gotta tease me like that?" She giggles, appreciating his knowledge of her little joke before she walks into the bathroom.  

Her phone starts ringing, and she sighs seeing James face on-screen Here we go she thinks as she picks up the phone

"Vivian.  I finally got you. So we're on for today, right? I should head over there in about 20 minutes?"

Speaking softly, "No James. I didn't sleep well last night. I rescheduled. "

"Do you need anything?"

"No. I just wanna shower and lie down.”

"Okay, well I--" but she has already hung up

**

Meanwhile, at James apartment, he’s stuck constantly wondering if Vivian is telling the truth about needing more sleep. She seemed adamant about the appointment yesterday, she hurried off the phone and let’s be honest, she simply doesn’t have the greatest record of being forthcoming with James. In an effort to change his thoughts, he opens his laptop to purchase the $80 gift card that Vivian angrily suggested while still thinking of his distrust in her. It feels like an out-of-body experience when he looks up at the screen realizing he has searched private investigators. His distrust in Vivian controlling him as he reaches for his phone to dial the number. Feeling a little shy at first but more confident as the phone rings, James explains exactly what he’s looking for, and gives Vivian's address, they hang up so that James can text the investigator a few photos of Vivian as requested.  With only a smidge of guilt and much more satisfaction, James sets down the phone trusting the investigator much more than he trusts Vivian.

 After completing the transaction with the investigator, James takes the short walk to the library where he sits at his laptop working on his next play.

Beside him is a dark-haired woman on her laptop, reading reviews of Rosethorne Park.

He can't help but to speak to her,

"You saw Rosethorne Park? What did you think?"

He holds out his hand, “I'm James, by the way" she shakes his hand while turning back to her screen "Comfort. I saw the movie, but I’ve heard the movie was loosely based on the play. I also heard that the play is a million times better than the movie. The play is touring small venues in this city only so I'm reading reviews before I buy my ticket."

"I didn't get your name."

"Comfort. I said Comfort."

"Oh, I'm sorry I missed it before.  Nice to meet you, Comfort and I'd argue to agree, the play is better than the movie. The movie kinda sucks."

"In comparison, I can imagine that the movie sucks. Original work is usually better."

Comfort's enthusiasm for James work has an effect on James comparable to Cupids arrow. The magnetism between these two is more than James can comprehend. He wants to kiss Comfort and somehow, he knows she wants to be kissed by him. He and Vivian are separated so it's okay, right?

No, no she's having their baby and he wants to work things out. Guess there will be no kissing tonight.

"So, James, when do you plan on telling me that you are the accomplished James Ashton? The playwright?  The author? That Rosethorne Park was your first play, and this is your first-time touring?"

He sits shocked that she knows this stuff though his expression gradually becomes a grin showing that he is impressed by her knowledge.  And a little turned on. This girl just keeps getting better  

"What gave it away? Was I too interested in the play?"

"No, your interest level was perfect. I simply can't forget such a handsome face and I saw your picture in your author bio to your book, Prescribe to love."

"You recognized me from that? The girl I was dating at the time gave me a mini makeover for it. I don't look like that."

Why did he say that!? He just had to make it known that he's technically single right now.

"James, I'm looking at you. Yes, you do look like that. Anyway, are you teaching these days? I'd love to pick your brain."

“I don't teach, but I'd be willing to meet with you."

She closes her laptop,  

"Let's set that up."

"You closed your laptop. Are you leaving me already?"

James brand of flirting isn't so obvious, nor is it usual though he can't seem to refrain from flirting with this girl.

"Yes, I promised my grandmother I'd go to T.J Maxx with her. But I won't leave before we make our date." They share the same brand of flirting and she whips out her phone going directly to the calendar.  

"Let's not wait long. How about tomorrow?" Even her eagerness is come hither to James.

"Tomorrow is perfect.  Here's my phone number.  Text me your address. I'll come to get you"

He hands her one of the business cards he had previously printed but has never used.

"Okay, James.  What time?"

"Text me and I'll text you back." James smiles feeling suave and mysterious, Vivian not on his mind at all as he watches Comfort walk away.

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Three months later

Vivian lies on the doctors' table, comfortable and wanting to fall asleep when the doctor speaks

"You're five months now. Would you like to know the sex of Baby Ashton?'

"Slip it to me.”

The doctor gestures to Shaun as if to ask Vivian if he were the father, Vivian shakes her head and prepares herself to leave. They make an appointment for the following week and upon walking into the parking stricture Shaun affectionately places his hand on Vivian's back.

-click click-

Once in the car, Vivian starts to softly cry.

"Sexy, what's wrong? Why are you crying?"

"Because James hasn't been a part of this pregnancy. It feels like our baby, his and mine is OUR baby, yours and mine"

"Okay sexy, Im'a always side with you…usually."

She sniffles "I know."

"But you shut him out. He calls you more than once daily. Look I'm not tryna make you call him. I like spendin' all this time with you. But don't cry over something you have control over.”

Vivian looks at Shaun who sits behind the wheel still in the parking lot, focused on calming her down.

He stares back at her as they usually do in these moments. There's something different about this time. There’s a scent in the atmosphere that has taken Shaun hostage making him unwilling to turn from Vivian's smoldering stare. Vivian doesn’t help. Staring back at Shaun, not even trying to break the gaze as she usually does. Shaun frantically but rushes to kiss Vivian.

"Shaun...".

He kisses her neck while reaching to unclasp her bra

"Shaun, I'm pregnant - remember?" He covers her mouth with his and they make out as he caresses her pregnant breasts...

-click click-

"I want you, Vivian. It doesn't matter that you're pregnant. I've been here and I'm not leaving."

He leans to meet her for a kiss. After they part,

"Let's talk in more depth when we get to my apartment. "

**

"You're perfect, hun." Comfort straightens James' tie before he walks onstage to say his last words about the play as tonight was its last show on the tour. She kisses his cheek, "Go be amazing."

James walks out on stage and after giving his appreciation and saying goodbye, the audience roars a symphony of clapping in mostly unison and James walks backstage to Comfort.

"Thank you for being here with me Comfort. You've become a necessity in my life."

"Good. I dare your baby's mother to try and push me out."

"Let’s not worry about that."

"Okay, James " she kisses his forehead.

"Ready to go?"

"Yes. But I'm gonna take you home tonight. I meet with Damien tomorrow." She'd been spending nights at his place all week.

"The private investigator, right? I don't think I knew his name. I'm glad you're meeting though."

James grabs Comforts hand

"I'm scared."

She squeezes his hand "Text me. I'll come over immediately after. If all I can do is be there than that's what I wanna do."

"Comfort...?"

"Yes, James?" He pecks her lips and she smiles against the kiss. It’s the first time he’s ever kissed her lips, and she thinks it’s cute how important it seems to him.

"I love spending time with you, Comfort"

"The sentiment is shared, hun"

He smiles, "Okay. Let's go."

The drive home is sweet, she lays her hand on top of his free hand and he kisses her again after walking her to the door.

After making it to his apartment he prepares to sleep anticipating Damien's visit.

**

Vivian wakes up to see Shaun lying topless beside her. She rolls onto him and wakes him up with a kiss. He kisses her back, pleased with his life right now.

"Mmm...I love kissing you, Shaun" they continue kissing. Vivian still lying on top of Shaun, rolling off of him and sitting upright "But we have to stop. I AM still trying to be with James. That hasn't changed."

"If we have sex, I'll change your mind. You won’t need James." She laughs

"But seriously, Shaun"

"Alright. I knew you were still tryna be with him when I kissed you "

"Exactly. Friends?"

"Forever."

“But Shaun"

"Yeah, sexy?"

"It’s only us in this apartment. Kiss me."

And another steamy makeout session has begun

**

James is startled by the knock on the door that he answers with nervous anticipation

A stranger stands in a bomber jacket and jeans

"Hello. Mr. Ashton?”

"James, Yes.”

"Damien Nazario. The investigator you hired."

"Of course, come in.”

"This is my partner Suriyah."

Her dress seems a little short to be appropriate for work, but maybe that’s why she became a private investigator.

"Nice to meet you both"

"Have a seat, we’ve got some things for you"

James sits at the dining room table as does Damien and Suriyah. Manila folder in hand, Damien speaks

"Are you ready for this? When an investigator does the job right, you can find out things you weren't even looking for" James opens his mouth to speak but Suriyah speaks above him.

"Don't let Damien scare you. Save your emotions for when you see the photos."

She doesn't realize that she scared him even more.

"Okay. Let's see.” James speaks steadily as if he’s ready for anything when truly he’s afraid of what he might see.

Damien pulls out two photos, pushing one to the forefront that shows Shaun's hand rested on Vivian's back.

"This could be innocent. But it's worth it to say that they were leaving an ob/GYN when you say she doesn't keep you up to date on the pregnancy. "

James is hurt that she’s excluded him from being around their growing child but he’s equally relieved that's all there's evidence of.

"But Suriyah...Well," Damien turns to Suriyah "Suriyah, I’ll let you take it from here."

Suriyah takes the second photo

"James. You're such a great catch. And unbelievably handsome."

Damien gives her a sharp look, wondering why he allowed his fiancé to be his partner. She can never deliver tough news without a cushion.

"Thanks"

"And that voice. It's so sexy!"

"Suriyah" Damien calls her name to bring her back to the world.

She finally places the photo in front of James. It shows Shaun and Vivian in Shaun's SUV, Shaun and Vivian are kissing, and it looks like his hands might be under her shirt.

"I'm sorry James. There isn't much to say. They were still in the lot of the doctor’s office."

James is able to speak as though he's fine but the expression on his face betrays the facade he's trying to portray.

"Thanks to you both. Mission accomplished, huh?" His laughter is noticeably fake as he hands Damien their payment.

"If you ever need me again you know I'll get the job done"

“Butt hopefully you won’t need us” Suriyah speaks and James and Damien shake hands.

The investigating duo begins to walk out the door before Suriyah turns to James,

"If she'd do you like that, she’s not worth it."

"She is though..." James' voice matches his expression; he is no longer pretending to be okay.

"Suriyah, come on" Damien called to her.

James closes the door after they've gone and dials Vivian.

**

An improvised nap interrupted by the sound of her phone; Vivian's eyes seem to bulge when realizing that its James calling. She broke down crying because of the absence she dictated, there’s no way she can ignore this call.

"Hey. I miss you." She didn't want to explain why she’s been ignoring his calls.

"Can you come over?" He was short and seemed a little emotionless. Though she agrees. It's time to allow him involvement. Shaun has already started work. With an empty apartment, Vivian can leave without detour.

*

The short drive doesn't allow for much thinking, but the only thing she wondered was "Is he okay?" He sure seemed different on the phone. Once at his apartment, he welcomes her with a hug.

"You're vibrant. You look good carrying our baby." Vivian smiles, "Thanks, James. It’s really good seeing you. I missed you so much. "

"Honestly?"

"Yes, of course."

"Tell me something you love."

"A lot of things."

"Okay, tell me something you love that I do. "

She pauses and speaks low, as though other people are in the room

"I love the way you eat my pussy. I love your silly puns about "eating."

"Oh? You mean the way I had to have my food delivered today?" He gently pushes her onto the table, moves her panties to the side and teases her by licking around her pussy lips.

"Daddy, it's been too long" he glides his tongue over her slit continuing to tease. Feeling her pussy get wetter he inserts a finger; thrusting his finger in and out until he stops to rub on her clit.

"James...Please...Don't stop Daddy."

Once he can see she is dripping wet, the translucent liquid slipping out of her pussy onto her thighs, he trails kisses up her thigh. Licking and sucking her thigh anywhere the wetness has spilled.

"Yes, Daddy... " she grabs hold of the back of his neck as he loses his tongue in her pussy. He licks up and down and sucks her clit adding his fingers to heighten the pleasure. "Fuck, James..." she whispers as he continues to taste her. He can feel her climax coming and flicks her clit until he can taste her releasing.

James immediately gets up

"Good?"

Vivian still on the table, finally sitting upright after a struggle.  

"Can I just say... do that again "

But he’s holding the picture of Shaun kissing her in her face when she sits up.

"James I... I.. "

"You don't have to explain yourself, Vivian. The separation is over."

"What!? Really!?"

She’s genuinely concerned and surprised. She shows excitement and happiness, but she’s got her mouth wide open in shock, in her mind. He has evidence of her kissing another man, but the separation is over??

"Yes. I can't do this anymore. "

"Good, baby, I hated being apart. "

"Vivian. It's over. Our relationship is over. We are not on a break. We are not temporarily separated. We are broken up. I only want to be in my child's life."

"James..."

"I won't compete with other men for my girlfriend’s affection. Especially when I, the boyfriend, keeps losing. "

"James, that's not -"

"Listen, I’ve met someone. I was trying not to fall for her because I thought I knew that you and I would be together. I was unfortunately wrong. "

"That's the real reason you're leaving me. Who is she? Reyna? Is it Reyna, James?"

The fact that Vivian is so upset is certainly not what James was expecting.

"It doesn't matter who it is as long as you and I are nothing more than parents."

"It is Reyna. Okay, fine James." Vivian stands up to leave. "We're having a boy." She attempts to stomp past him out the door when he grabs hold of her hand.

"Why are you so upset? We're having a son. That's great."

James wanting to find joy in the baby but Vivian stuck in the anger of losing her man.

"Break up? I don't care about Shaun. I care about you. I want you."

James pulls her close to him and starts to kiss her neck

"Baby. I dream of making you my wife." She shivers in pleasure unable to remember the last time he called her baby.

"Hold me forever, James." He kisses up her neck to the corner of her mouth before he stops

"But you've shattered those dreams. So, this is how it's going to be. We'll be amazing co-parents."

"I won't stop loving you. I will never give up on us. We were made to be together James. "

"Okay Vivian"

"I have an appointment next week. Would you like to come?"

Thus far he's done a pretty good job at hiding his pain but the more he speaks the more difficult it gets. "Am I allowed to come?" "Threes a crowd " and "Don't you have to ask Shaun first? “are three responses he WANTS to give when he only replies "Yes. Of course."

"Okay. I'll call you. I promise."

"Thanks" and he escorts her to her car.

Before allowing James to shut her car door she looks him in the eyes, "We will be together again. Forever." Moving her leg so he can shut the door, he walks into his apartment to sit on the couch covering his face with his palms.

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 It's getting close. Two months left before James and Vivian meet their son. James is much more excited than Vivian, he decorated a nursery both in his and in her apartment. Vivian picked out some things but is selfishly focused on getting back what belongs to her: James. She and Shaun are no longer kissing buddies because she continuously blames him for the breakup. Vivian spends all of her time in baby prep with James or trying to perfect her plan to get James back.

 On the other side of the game, James and Comfort are living their best lives. 

"Hun, look what I made you" Comfort shows James the heart-eyed emoji cake she’s finished in their cooking class. 😍

He smiles at her and shapes his fingers into a heart before returning to the flour mix in front of him to make his cake.

"You want me to finish? Baking is kinda my thing" Comfort teases James who has not mastered the art of baking.

"No, no. I’m going to make the kiss emoji for you." 😘

He's determined to at least try to make this cake.

"I'd much rather the real thing." She says in reference to the kiss emoji cake he plans to attempt.

She leans closer to him

"Oh really?" He pulls her closer and closer until a kiss is no longer optional. She wraps her soft arms around his neck; her heels making her tall enough to reach his lips without standing on her toes. He deepens the kiss, fingers intertwined with the tight coils of her natural curls. She moans, tasting the sweet red he sipped during the dinner lesson on his lips before she barely pulls away.

"We’re the only ones left. Let's get out of here." They kiss again. James catches eyes with the teacher and nods his head toward the door.

“Yeah, let's go " he reaches to grab her hand and they walk out, hand in hand.  

Walking to the car in the cool night air, James looks at Comfort. The way her jeans are fitted at her thighs especially.

She catches him staring. "What?"

"Baby, can I walk behind you!? I need to watch that ASS!' She laughs. "Silly is what you are. Silly."

"Honestly, you're gorgeous. You're the most amazing person I've ever met."

"James Sexy Ashton. Are you trying to take me home?"

"You gonna let me?" She smiles as James opens the passenger side door for her, letting her get in the car before he shuts her door and gets in the car to begin the drive back to his place.

"Comfort. Let's go car shopping tomorrow. "

"You want to buy a new car?"

"I need to. I need a bigger car for when my son is here."

Parked at his complex and now in his apartment, the conversation continues

"I'll go with you."

"I want you to help me pick a car" He is changing into his pajamas when she realizes that she didn’t bring any overnight clothes.  

"You're so damn sexy. Can I wear the shirt that you aren't?"

James turns to grab a shirt out of his drawer to hand to her and they get in bed. He turns on the television but they both have books to read. Comfort lies on top of the bedding with James tee on, wearing her glasses and reading James' book Prescribe to love.

"Really, baby?" James looks at Comfort in disbelief.  

"What? It's my favorite book!"

"Yeah, okay" he puts his book down and hops on top of her; tickling her stomach and showering her face with wet kisses. He fights against her kicking and laughing before he retreats.

"You kicked me pretty hard."

Comfort grabs his face, squeezing his cheeks together, "Aww does honey have a boo-boo? Did I hurt you honey?” she kisses his lips and to his pleasant surprise, she deepens the kiss while allowing her hands to roam, tracing the muscles of his chest and feeling his broad shoulders.

"Baby..." James calls to her before continuing their kiss down to her neck where he focuses for a minute while his own hands travel further up her thigh until he is at her panty line.

"Do you want me to stop?" He speaks in a grainy whisper. This will be their first time together and James doesn’t want to rush anything with her. It’s gotta be perfect.

"No, sweetheart, don’t stop." She is speaking softly though the desire in her voice is apparent. She's only wearing James t-shirt and her panties when James glides the shirt off of her. He looks in her eyes, "How'd I get so lucky? You're like the moon. Brightening my darkness."

She pulls him into a kiss and her hands find their way to his waistband, pushing his pants down revealing his boxer briefs. "Rope Burn" by Janet Jackson plays softly in the background until a mostly naked Comfort turns it just a little louder, "Dance for me honey"

Without hesitation, James stands up to dance for her. Rolling his body and gyrating his hips

"I'm so out of my element," he thinks but doesn't dare show insecurity. 

"Come closer"

She grabs hold of his hand and pulls him as near to the edge of the bed as possible. Following the outline of his erect dick with her tongue only made the imprint more pronounced. She breathes on the imprint, allowing him to feel the moisture of her breath as she watches his excitement become more visible.  

"Comfort, Baby, you're so sexy."

"Shhhh" she places a finger to his lips and starts kissing his waist, slowly pulling his boxers down and kissing every part of his pelvis except his dick. She kisses down until her lips meet his balls. Opening her mouth wider to suck them both. "Mmmmmm" moaning at the sensation of his smooth skin in her mouth. Slowly pumping her hand back and forth on his dick.

"Comfort..."

“Hush. Stay where you are” she speaks so softly; the tone sends tingles in his body. How is she so sexy, so in control of her femininity and how did she hide such freakiness? She gets on her back, head hanging off the bed and immediately returns to sucking his balls. Somehow her head being in a different position gives a different, equally amazing sensation. He's never done this before, but he cannot get enough of it now.

"Baby, " each time he starts to speak, he trails off into moaning. Wildly licking, her tongue meets the skin between his balls and his ass and he doesn't protest so she doesn't stop. This is new territory for James, but it feels amazing allowing her tongue to explore a little more before he speaks

"Damn baby," thinking she is finished but she tells him "Fuck my face." James is equal parts excited and amazed. He didn't know she was a freak like this but he’s certainly loving it. She opens her mouth. “Feed me that dick.” He slowly drops his dick in and out of her mouth until she grasps his thighs pushing him deeper in her throat. Saliva spilling her lips as she holds him in place, forcing him to keep his dick in her throat.

"Comfort. Baby. I..." she releases him from her throat to jack him off, sucking his balls as she does.

"Ohhhhhhhhhhhhhh" he explodes on the bed, but Comfort continues to jack him off until he pushes her torso down. "My turn" he pushes her legs apart...

**

"It's hot like summer now, being pregnant "

"The temperature changes are that vivid?"

Abbie asks in disbelief at her friend's exaggerations.

"Yes. They are. Wait till you get pregnant. Anyway, I have to get James back."

"Is he single?"

"No Abbie and guess who he’s dating"

"Becca"

"What? Hell no. Remember Reyna?"

"That girl you worked on the newspaper with Sophomore year of college?"

"Yup. But don’t worry. I have a plan and you will know when it's done."

"Okay, don't get crazy Vivian. "

"Don't worry. I have a call to make though. I'll call you later, k?"

"Okay, bye."

Vivian hangs up with Abbie and dials Reyna.

"Hello?"

"Reyna! Hey! Its Vivian, how are you? Long-time. "

"Hey, Vivian. I'm fine, how are you?"

"Pretty good. Are you still doing investigative journalism?"

"Yes, actually I'm trying to become a reporter. do you have a lead?"

"Less of a professional lead, more of a personal deal but I'm willing to pay and you'll get to flex your skills. Let's meet over coffee to sort everything out. Is that cool?"

Reyna thinks at least I can see James, not knowing that they aren't together anymore

"Sure."

"Great. Why don't I meet you at Linnie’s? I'm sure you know it, the little mom and pop cafe by James' place."

"Umm Sure. Okay" meanwhile Reyna is wondering, why would I know this coffee shop? Why is she referring to his apartment as James' place, doesn't she live there also? Vivian has always been a little strange to her, so she shrugs her shoulders and goes to meet Vivian.

Reyna, of course, arrives first and sits patiently awaiting Vivian. Vivian is only a couple minutes behind her and walks up smiling and apologizing.

"You just move a little slower when you're seven months pregnant. "

"It doesn't even feel as though seven months have passed. I still remember when James first said you were pregnant.”  

Vivian rubs her belly, "Believe me, I've been aware of each of these months" she laughs "Where is James?"

Reyna scrunches her eyes in confusion, "I don't know..."

"Okay. Well, drinks on me. What would you like?"

"How generous of you. Any dark roast with two cream and one sugar. " Reyna didn't want to argue, but she already made plans to slip Vivian money for the coffee.

"Got it. I'll be right back."

Vivian orders and receives the coffee and a hot cider for herself. When mixing in Reyna's cream and sugar she is careful to be unseen slipping a good amount of something extra and stirs. Returning to the table with both cups in hand must look difficult as Reyna stands up to grab a cup from Vivian though she has already made it back to the table and Reyna returns to sitting.

"Thank you, Vivian. So how has your pregnancy been?"

Vivian takes a seat, waiting for Reyna to sip.

"Not bad. I'm mostly hungry, sleepy and hot but our boy has been good to his mother" she rubs her belly while looking down affectionately and notices Reyna still has not taken a sip, so she takes one first.

"How are you and James, Reyna?" Reyna takes a sip.

"Huh? Wha?"

"You heard me. How are you and my man? "

"I ca..I..." Reyna passes out to the ground.

"Oh my God! Help!!" Vivian screams and another customer calls 911.

**

The moment the ambulance arrives, the tech looks at Vivian, “I'm sorry miss. She’s…no longer with us." But Vivian has set her eyes on James, who stands outside the cafe after hearing familiar names on the news. She walks to him, "I’m so sorry about your girlfriend " her face gets angry when she notices a lady’s hand in his. "What? Vivian, this is my girlfriend " he pulls Comfort closer to him and introduces them. "But we can get to know each other later. What happened to Reyna? Is she okay?" Vivian ignores him and walks away

"Damnit! I killed the wrong bitch" she speaks under her breath while heading back into the café to pretend she cares\

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.. James and Vivian stand facing one another, holding each other’s hands tightly and staring into one another’s eyes. 

“Am I missing something? Are we having a moment?” Michael (the lawyer) speaks up.

“Yes" Vivian never looks away from James

“Okay… well I’m going to my judges’ chambers. We have a meeting. I’ll see you two tomorrow “and Michael leaves.

Still looking into his eyes Vivian repeats, “Yes, babe. Yes.” With a hand rested on his cheek, she feels it rise as his mouth curls to smile and they share a deep kiss before James pulls away, “I can’t stop smiling.”

She kisses his smiling lips and when she backs away,

“What’s our next step? We need to be married by morning.”

He pulls her close, kissing her while placing the car keys in her hand “Leave it to me. Go to the car, I’ll handle this.” She smiles walking to the car and he takes out his phone first calling his dad.

“Dad, its James.”

“Hello, son.”

“Dad, I need your help. Do you have any connections with city hall?”

“Depends, son. What do you need? Does this have to do with the girl you’re courting?”

James’ dad has no idea he and Vivian ever broke up, but he stays up to date on the news and with his grandson

“Yes. But hear me out. It’s not necessarily to do with the Black Mamba case.”

“Okay. Then what kind of help do you need in the court?”

“We need a marriage license and to be married. Today.”

“Wow. That is short notice but yes, I can make that happen. Call me back in two hours.”

“Thanks. How’s Logan treating you two?”

“He’s a good boy. That’s to be expected of an Ashton, no matter the age.”

“Alright Dad, I gotta go. I’ll call you back" he hangs up with his dad taking a big sigh as he begins walking to the car.

Time to call her…

He clicks his phone to dial Comfort, laughing to himself when he sees Vivian’s name change. “Temporary bitch.” Comfort answers the phone with a pleasing tone, excited to hear from him.

“Hey, hun. I’m happy to hear from you. I thought you might still be mad"

“Can I come by?”

“What!? Yes! Please do!”

Comfort is full of cheer. Her boyfriend never visits her at home, and it feels like an honor having him come over. She rushes to tidy up her house while James drives to see her with Vivian beside him. Once they arrive at Comforts house,

“Baby wait here. I’m just going to break this off so we can live our life together. “

“Okay babe" Vivian leans to kiss James and he heads into Comforts place.

He knocks on the door and Comfort answers wearing a sports bra and leggings, but it does not entice James.  “Hey hun!” she holds out a cup and hands it to James. “It’s the bourbon you liked so much when we went on our first date.”

“Thanks.” James response lacks any emotion, but Comfort is so happy to see him she doesn’t notice.

“I’m so glad you’re here hun. Do you need another bourbon?”

James is already feeling a bit tipsy.

 Is this bourbon 100 proof? Damn!

“No, Comfort. We need to talk. Listen a minute.”

“Okay. Let’s talk.” She looks at him with a smile and seductive eyes. She’s happy to see him and ready to have him even when he says

“I’m getting married.”

She’s confused but happy “Hun, we haven’t been together that long but if you’re ready to take that step, we can get engaged.”

How dense can she be?

James can’t fathom how she could think they’re getting married, but he makes it clear

“No, Comfort. We are not getting married. I am getting married. You aren’t even invited to the wedding. “

Finally understanding, Comfort gets upset

“What!? TO WH..” she stops herself from asking a question she feels like she can already answer

“That murderer. I can’t believe you, James. You’re breaking up with me and getting married!? Was this relationship even real at all? You know what, don’t answer that. Enjoy your married murder ass life. I hope you don’t corrupt your innocent son and I hope I never see your stupid ass again!” She pulls James arm, forcing him up and out of the house when she looks up and notices his passenger seat does not look empty. “SHE’S HERE!? You brought the bitch here!??????? “

 “Um, is that rhetorical because you can see, right?”

Ignoring James,

“Yeah, uh-huh, bitch I see you.” She signals pointing to her eyes and Vivian. Vivian only laughs and puts her middle finger up. “See, look at this bitch!” Comfort frantically snaps multiple pictures with her phone, “Got her evil ass. Are you still here James? Leave.” But James is on the phone with Abbie making wedding plans. The phone call doesn’t last long, and he hangs up with Abbie, looking to Comfort “Bye Comfort…” he lingers, as if the non-Vivian entranced version of himself may speak up, but only turns to walk to the car where Vivian has news to share.

“I’ve got bad news.”

“Oh no. What’s wrong?”

“The lawyer called. He said the prosecution has more evidence to enter. And someone to testify against me.”

“You’re innocent. None of what they have matters.” He picks up her hand, gently pressing his lips up against the skin. “And we still have your image. My beautiful wife, mother of our infant child. No need to worry.” She smiles.

“Okay, babe. I won’t worry as long as you’re with me.“

“Then you’ll never worry…I almost forgot to ask can you drive? Comfort gave a really strong drink. I feel fine but better safe than sorry.”

“Did it taste funny??”

“No, she said it was from the first restaurant I ever took her to. I think she was trying to make up for screaming at me.”

“Of course, I’ll drive.  She has a crazy temper; she better not had poisoned my husband.”

They get out to switch sides and James grabs Vivian to kiss her

“Your husband is fine.” He kisses her once more before letting her go and they get in the car in their new positions.

James phone rings as he’s buckling his seatbelt and luckily, it’s his dad so he doesn’t hang up after three rings

“Your marriage license is ready. I tried to get them to allow you to wed here at our estate. They won’t but be at the court in an hour and a half and they will marry you and give you a marriage certificate. “

“Perfect. Thank you, Dad. Get dressed, get Logan in something warm. You, mom and Logan get to the court.”

“Logan really shouldn’t be out yet.”

“It won’t be long. Dress him warm. See you all soon.” He hangs up the phone “Vivian, can we go home quickly? I gotta grab some things before we head to the courthouse. “

“Which home?”

“The one you never should’ve left.” She smiles

“Okay, okay. To your apartment.”

“We need to start looking at houses…again. We’re a complete family. Mom, dad, child. This apartment is beneath us.”

“You’re right.”  By the time he picks up his phone to start a house search, she has already parked in front of his apartment building. He looks up from his phone, “You drive too fast” they kiss, and she follows behind him. James walks into the apartment though Vivian is stopped by a whistle.

“We aren’t supposed to be talking. What do you want?”

“Did it work? Are you back with moneybags?”

“Hey, hey, hey. Shut up. James and I are getting married and that’s all I know.”

“Keeping your hands clean, I get it. I risked losing the veterinarian as a client to help you.”

“I don’t know what you mean. Bye Shaun.” She walks into the apartment to see James wearing an all-white Calvin Klein suit

“Babe!! You’re wearing the white! You said you’d never wear it.”

“I never thought our wedding would be so rushed. You used to try so hard to convince me to wear this. I’ll do anything for you.”  The lingering gazes have to suffice while they’re on this time restriction. Vivian walks into the bedroom to freshen up when she eyes a dress in his closet. “I’d been looking for that dress!” she says out loud.  James hears her and calls out, “What’s up love?”

“Sorry babe just thinking out loud" she laughs to herself and grabs it to change into. Walking back into the living room

“Let’s go babe" but James looks at her and lowers himself to one knee.

“Vivian, this marriage is being so rushed. I have to at least propose to you the way you deserve. I love you. All you have to do is look my way and I feel a warmth that I want to feel forever. Loving you; being your love creates an everlasting bliss that I often have to remind myself that this is real. You are my fantasy come true. With you, I don’t have to dream anymore. Will you marry me?” she places her hands on his face pulling him up to kiss him “You didn’t even have to say anything. The answer is yes.”

He takes her hand to place the ring on her finger.

“I only have the engagement ring. We can pick out wedding bands together. “ She kisses him again.

“Now we can go" he laughs and holds the door for him while he texts Abbie the time and location.  

After he locks the door behind himself and they make it back to the car, Vivian sighs of relief having had dodged seeing Shaun again and James decides to drive to the courthouse.

Once there, they walk to the unusually empty window to state their appointment and they are escorted into a separate room. Walking in the room, Vivian sees her parents, James parents, Little Logan, and Abbie.

“Wow, uh, Hey everyone. I wasn’t expecting this, babe" she smiles at James but walks toward James mother who’s holding Logan.

The judge speaks up. “This is truly a favor for George. I have to get outta here soon.”

“Okay. Baby?” James holds his hand out to Vivian. She sets her hand in his and they walk to the podium where they are wed with simple “I do’s" and a deep, but publicly appropriate kiss.

James has a big ol’ grin plastered on his face when Abbie comes up “Picture time!” They pose, wearing the same smile in each shot. “Now with the baby. I’ll be right back.”

“Babe. Did you do this? Get everyone here?”

“I asked Abbie and my dad for help.”

“This is wonderful. I love you.”

“I wanted our quickie wedding to be as personal as possible. I love you too.”

“Where’s Zack and Grant, Chris, Kaitlyn, Becca, and Zig?”

“You’ll have to ask Abbie. “

“Honestly, would you want Zig here anyway?”

“I don’t care. He’d see who your husband is. Maybe he would recognize our relationship now that we’re married. But again, that was up to Abbie. “

Vivian shrugs “doesn’t matter that much.” Abbie walks up holding Logan “Who wants to hold him?”

Vivian holds her arms out, ready to cradle her son. She poses, smiling beside James and holding Logan. “This is such a happy unit! I’m so glad you were able to get back together. And then married!”

“Vivian really has a hold on me.” He kisses her cheek and notices that the judge has already left.

James dad raises his arm to get James attention. “I have your marriage certificate. Here. “

Each individual congratulates them on their new chapter, the grandparents on both sides stay behind after everyone else leave.

“Looks like we’ve got a new grandson and son in law” Vivian’s mom smiles, teasing James

“Two positive gains, right?” James jokes back

“Oh, of course!” when James dad interrupts the conversation

“Let’s talk strategy. We want to make sure Vivian wins her case.”

“That’s what lawyers are for” Vivian’s mom isn’t concerned

“Exactly. We’ve hired the best for my wife, Not to mention she’s innocent. What more strategy could we need?” James speaks against his father.

 “Did you hire Michael Board?” James father doesn’t believe James has any business savvy at all

“Yes"

“Consider me impressed. Okay.” He walks over to his wife; they congratulate Vivian and leave.

Vivian, who is still holding Logan, walks over to James who is still with her parents

“Babe, let’s get Logan home"

Teeny Tiny Tag List:

@zigortega4life

Like many of us, Vivian thinks she knows what’s going on with her: she’s got a UTI. She just needs some antibiotics and some cranberry juice, but James suggested she see a doctor because of her frequent urination, and she’ll do absolutely anything toward making things better with him. Including listening to his little suggestions. 

After the medical assistant takes all of her vitals, she sits in the room alone only a moment before her doctor comes in.

“Hello, Ms. Day. So, what’s going on today?”

“Well, I’ve been going to the bathroom very frequently. I think I have a UTI but the guy I’m dating suggested I come to the doctor so. Here I am.”

“Smart boyfriend. Okay, I’ll send my assistant in here. We’ll give you a urine test and find out for sure.”

“Okay. Thank you, doctor.”

It’s as if they were playing tag the way the doctor and the MA kept switching who was in the room. When the MA returns, she has an empty “ cup” in her hand, handing it over to Vivian with instruction to fill the cup with urine only to the line meant to mark the cup as “full.”

The MA directs her to the restroom and its easy for Vivian to fill the cup. In fact, she’s worried she may spill out the cup - but doesn’t. She is informed that she could get results back as early as in two hours if the lab isn’t busy, so she goes home, expecting the phone call.  

With no stops in between the doctor’s office and home, it doesn’t take very long before Vivian makes it to the bedroom and lies with the radio softly playing “Master of my heart” by Marcus Johnson and Maysa while James sits in the living room on his laptop.

She feels comfortable relaxing until her phone vibrates on her chest where it is sitting.

“Hello?”

“Hello, May I speak with Vivian Day?”

“This is Vivian speaking.”

“Ms. Day, we have your results. Would you like to come in?”

“Can’t you just tell me on the phone?

“Yes, I can. Ms. Day, you don’t have a Urinary Tract Infection.”

“Oh, good. What’s going on then?”

“Ms. Day, you’re pregnant. About five weeks.” Vivian goes silent. It was bound to happen; they never use protection. Though this is terrible timing. James is so cold and distant. They have to work on their relationship, but now they’re having a baby. This is overwhelming.

“Ms. Day? Hello?”

“Yes. I’m sorry, I’m just a little shocked. What now?”

“Well, you’ll need to schedule an appointment with your OB/GYN to discuss options and further care.”

“Okay. Thank you.” She hangs up the phone, still in shock. Wanting to jump around in joy but wallowing in fear: how will James respond?

“James?” she calls out to him though she doesn’t need to raise her voice much. The two rooms are not far apart, and her music is at a low volume.

“Yes?” he answers without ever stopping his work

“Can I come in there with you? “Although they’ve been friendly, Vivian still feels so guilty. It’s like walking on eggshells around him, but this is all in her head.

"If you want, Vivian, I’m not your keeper.”

She mumbles under her breath, “you used to be” as she walks into the living room. Thankfully James didn’t hear her mumble being so engulfed in his computer screen. He’s sitting on his chair, and she takes a seat on the couch.

“James. I have to tell you something. I need you to pay attention to me.” He saves his document, closing his laptop and looking straight at her. “My attention belongs to you.”

Oh, it feels so good to hear him talk like that.

“James, I’ve dreamed of telling you this with more joy. With a celebration, in a surprise. But that, unfortunately, is not our circumstance…” she briefly loses her train of thought, feeling sorry for the predicament she’s gotten their relationship. This starting over stuff that she doesn’t like.“

"…” silence as he awaits her news. She takes a deep sigh before continuing,

“James, I’m pregnant.”

He looks around the room as if he were expecting people to pop out before he finally sets his eyes on her

“I’m going to be a father?”

“Yes”

He smiles,

“We’re definitely looking at that house. I’ll call the realtor this time. At two million bucks, I’m assuming the listing is still available. We’ll find out.”

That smile. He’s happy. I wanna kiss him. Would that be too much? I think it’d be too much

“I’m so glad that you’ve reacted this way, James.”

“How else would I react? Baby, we’re having a baby! We’re going to be parents,” the way his face flows when he smiles reminds her of all the good times they had before she broke his heart.

He called me baby. Maybe I can kiss him

Without another thought, she leans in to kiss his lips and guess what…he kisses back! She feels happy in knowing that James is not as cold as she imagined.

The joy in finding out about her surprise pregnancy quickly fades after their shared kissed, James’ face goes blank, and he tells Vivian, “I have an errand to run. I’ll be right back, okay?” Although he kisses her cheek before he walks out, she can’t help but feel a little empty, realizing the state of their relationship without baby excitement.

–

Once he’s in his car, he whips out his cell phone. Realizing that all his friends are Vivian’s friends, he only has one person to call. His desperation to talk to someone prevails over his better judgement and the phone is already rining on the other end. 

“Hey, Reyna.”

“James. I haven’t heard from you since you moved in with that girl you chose.”

“I know. I thought it best as you were very…forthcoming in your intentions with me. And I’d hate to come off as a user, but I need someone to talk to.”

“Okay…” her flame for James has only gone away because they haven’t been in contact, it can reignite at any time and learning he’s single will definitely reignite that flame.

“Vivian cheated on me.”

“So, it’s over.”

“No.”

“But that’s the logical response, and you’re a logical man.”

“I’m a man in love. I told her we had to start over like we’ve just started dating. But honestly, Reyna, I don’t want to do that. I just want to tell her all is forgiven and fuck her like there’s no tomorrow…Oh yeah, she’s pregnant.”

“Sounds like YOU’RE the one with pregnancy brain.” Her desire to have James for herself has definitely created a bias for her. Vivian would probably be the bad guy even if James were the cheater.

“You know what Reyna, I called you because I thought you would have an open mind but it’s clear you’re anti-Vivian. I’ll talk to you later.”

“No! James, I’m sorry. You’re right. Vivian was great to work with. I’ll listen. REALLY listen.”

“Okay. Well, I’m in love with her Reyna.  The kind of love that makes me do things I normally wouldn’t do, and I feel conflicted because my heart and my brain are telling me to do the same thing. Usually, your heart is telling you to do one thing, but your brain says another, but not this time. Every part of me wants to move on and be together as usual. Not this starting over shit. Honestly, I only said that because it sounded right.”

“James. All of my personal opinions to the side; follow your intuition. If you really love her that much, just be with her. Do you know who she cheated with?”

“Yes. Do you know that guy…he used to be a barista? Zig?”

“ZIG? Zig Ortega? Damn!”

“What?”

“He’s sexy as hell, James. And smart, too. If Vivian is still trying to be with you even after you declared the need to start over, she loves you. I mean, she could run away with Zig Ortega. Daamn.”

“This has been a mildly comforting conversation. Thank you, Reyna. I’m gonna go.”

“Okay, don’t be a stranger.”

“Okay, I won’t” already knowing in his mind that he will not be calling her again. She poses herself as a conflict to his mending relationship. He told Vivian he had an errand to run but doesn’t. To kill some time, he’s just goes driving. Meanwhile, upstairs, Vivian has the same idea to phone someone and dials Abbie.

“Vivian! Oh my gosh, it’s so great to hear from you.”

“Hey Abbie,” her voice brittle and broken, she clears her throat but now she sounds monotonous “How are you?”

“Uh, oh. What’s goin’ on, Vivian? Don’t say you’re fine. I can hear it in your voice.”

“Did I tell you that I cheated on James?”

“What!? When? With who? Oh, my goodness!!”

“At Christmas with Zig. I told James about it last week.”

“Vivian you are overloading me with information. You slept with Zig!? Is it bad that I wanna know about it? How did James react?”

“It’s not something I really wanna talk about right now. I’ll tell you about it later. He said we have to start over Abbie. Like we’re just courting each other. We just had a wonderful vacation, and we had decided to start looking for houses. Then I told him, and now we’re back at one. He doesn’t even sleep next to me. We don’t use our joint account anymore. We now have separate accounts to use instead. And guess what? Today, I found out I’m pregnant.”

“Vivian, what the hell is your life? Okay. So why are you so sad?”

“I miss him. I just wanna be us again. But…. this is all my fault. I hate this. I don’t wanna be this sad while I’m pregnant. He’s happy about it. He wants to go ahead and look at buying a house.”

“I know you’re not very happy right now, but congratulations on that by the way.”

This entire time Abbie has been imagining Zig and Vivian.  It is well known how Zig is popularly sought after by most people; she really wants to know about Vivian’s experience with him but is obligated to respect her best friends’ emotions.

“Vivian I’m going to ask you a question and I need you to trust me that it’s relevant. Why did you cheat on James?”

“I don’t know. Zig and I were alone. Zig had the best cologne on, I couldn’t get enough of it. Everyone knows he had a crush on me, so it wasn’t hard to get to the point…”

“Okay. And why does everyone know about Zigs’ crush?”

“He doesn’t hide it. Even if James is there.”

“Why do you think that is?”

“I don’t know Abbie, because he’s bold. What’s the point of these questions?”

“I think it’s because you allow it to happen. James can make his presence known as much as possible. Kiss you, hold you, anything. But YOU don’t stop men from coming on to you. It’s disrespectful to him. And if other men insist on flirting with you, you should insist on stopping it.”

“Oh my gosh, Abbie you’re so right, you’ve helped me beyond what I expected! Hey, love you. Coming over soon, k?”

“I’ll hold you to that. Get your man. Call me later. Bye, Vivian”

“Bye Abbie”