Klose EncountErs- Chapter 1 (New Beginnings)

I loved him not for what he did but for who he was. I met him on a Friday. The thirst  that circulated the room had not been filled by the sex on the beaches that flowed freely.

“ I like your set,” I said as I walked past him towards the bathroom.

“ I’m sorry sweetheart what was that?” he asked over the droned out sounds of Waka Floka’s No Hands.

“ I said I like your style you carry it very well,” I smirked.

“ O really? I like yours too and something tells me that I might like you,” he smiled back, “ Do you mind if we go to a private place and talk?”

“Not at all I’d enjoy a nice conversation,” I replied as I winked.

He escorted me over to the VIP section of the club. His fraternity brothers gazed at our encounter. My low cut shirt playfully grazed the top of my seven jeans. My outfit wasn’t that of thirst but one of quenching. 

His confidence peaked as he noticed the sets of eyes that looked up and down and landed on my thighs. The jeans hugged them tightly, giving a small peak of what lied underneath.  He wasn’t falling for me he loved me, the spark in his eyes confirmed it.

“So what’s your bottle of choice?” he asked.

“ I’m one to break your wallet babe,” I cautioned him.

“ And?” he retorted cockily.

“ And i’d like either some Ciroc or a glittery bottle of Moet,” I requested.

With two fingers  of motion to the bartender both of my requests were granted. 

“ So what’s your name? Who are you young lady?” he asked.

“ I’m known by a few names baby, wifey, but you can call me Kynny,” I responded with a coy smile.

“Well wifey, my I’m Trent,” he said as he poured my first glass of Ciroc and pineapple, “ So what are you into?”

“ Besides you?” I responded sipping sweetly on the drink he made.

“ Smooth,” was all he could manage to say.

“ I’m a woman of many talents. Educated, pursuing my masters, a writer, published in fictional writing, and adventurous always keeping an open mind. How about yourself?”

“ I’m an educated man myself. Currently getting my Ph.D and adventurous as well when it comes the company I'm with. No children, no spouse, no baggage just me.”

Impressed by the rep my interest was further peaked. To find a man without children or baggage is equivalent to finding Al Queda without terrorists, inevitable.

“ Do you have kids?” he asked.

“ Do you see a ring on my finger?” I responded.

“Touche’ little lady.”

As we polished off the first bottle of Ciroc the Moet became our second accomplice to engaging in affairs. We continued to get to know one another and talked as if we had known each other for years.

“ I’m not going to lie, I light weight like you.” 

“ I like you too babe, the feeling is definitely mutual.” 

“ Nice, can I show you a good time?”

“ This isn’t good?” I asked innocently.

“ This is just the preview,” he responded leaning in to kiss me passionately on my cheek. The kiss had me yearning for more, hoping that my cheek wasn’t the only place to be tagged with his lips.

“ Join us? Bring your girls too if you are feeling froggy,” he laughed.

I motioned for the crew to come join the extravaganza. The pitter pat of stilettos graced the floor as my crew peaked through the thirst and established a new level of woman, sophisticated and ready.

We left the lounge and laced the streets. Being the gentlemen he and his crew pulled up in their luxury cars, opened the doors, and invited us for a comfortable evening filled with what ifs and what could be’s.

As we rode through the streets, the lights hit every quality of him that made me fall so easily. From his chiseled chin, to the muscles that peaked from him sweater, I felt my being becoming caught up. He was the mission and I was his Tom Cruise hoping pursuing the impossible, a relationship on the first night.

We entered the Embassy dolled up with class. The smells of Chanel andMicheal Kors perfume mixed with the Versace and Aramni colognes permeated the elevator. The vibe was all the way live and we we were high  on each others journey’s of life. 

We exited on the twelfth floor. Sky-lined views of the city ushered us into the presidential suite. Bottles lined the bar and flat screens cascaded the walls. His buddy started the music and vibe floated through the room.

“ What can I make you ladies? As you can see you can have whatever you like,” he playfully sang as he pointed towards the bar.

“ I’ll take goose and cranberry,” one said.

“ Double that!” said another. 

As the rest of the group mixed their elixirs Trent sat comfortably next to me. He placed his arm around my shoulders and asked, “ And what can this man get you my lady?”

“ I just want you on the rocks,” I responded.

“ That can be arranged, especially since I want to ice you up, and I don’t mean the melting kind,” he smiled.

Sets of stilettos began to sprawl across the floor. As the night drew on, cards flew through games of spades and Bid Wist.

“ We are outta here,” one of my girls said as three of my other friends lined up at the door. 

“ We’ll take you ladies back, “ one of his boys said, “ Besides you two need some alone time.” He smiled.

As the room emptied the party vibe calmed and the romance entered in. He rubbed my shoulders and snaked down to my feet causing my body to instantaneously release. After rubbing me down he held me, without game but lovingly.

“ What do you think about me thus far Ms. Kynny B?”

“ I think you are the perfect lyric to my melody.” 

“ Well said my queen. Would you like me to take you home, I don’t want to ruin this good thing.”

“ Strange, I feel like I'm already there,” I responded.

He laughed, “ O really? Let me get you something more comfortable would a tee and some shorts be satisfying?”

“ For the living room yes, but I like to sleep in just my t-shirt and panties,” I said honestly.

“ Boxers are my only article of clothing so I understand, “ He said as he got up from the couch.

While he fetched my night time attire, I began to think. The Ciroc began to wear off as remnants of the Moet buzzed ever so lightly.

Ok Kyn what  are you thinking? I began to question consciously. He doesn’t seem psycho but the boxing you’ve done will handle his aggression quickly.

“ Here we are,” he said as he handed me a frat shirt and shorts. I went into the bathroom to change folded my dress properly and placed my Baker’s heels on top. I unpinned my tightly wrapped bun and let my naturally curled hair fall to my shoulders. Once I entered the living room I noticed his changed attire as well. He sat on the couch in his basketball socks, shorts, and t shirt flipping through the latest updates of ESPN.

“ I’m not just saying this, but you look sexy,” he smiled.

“ Thank you babe,” I responded.

“ Shall we watch a movie in my room?” he asked hesitantly. I was turned on by his gentlemen tendencies. He didn’t force the night he went with my feelings.

“ Sure,” I smiled.

Within two minutes of the previews the cuddling up had become a finger frenzy. I explored each part of his body allowing my hands to brush against his abs and then lightly graze his package. His strength impressed me. Although he held his calm demeanor his heart was racing. His pulse tensed and hurried as his blood emitted the heat he was feeling.

“ May I hold you as we sleep?” he asked

“ As long as you promise not to let me go,” I responded

“ Pinky swear,” he whispered into my ear and then kissed me on my neck, “I’ve never felt this way and i’m going to be honest I think my love for you is developing.”

“Then let it be,” I said, “ for it will be accompanied with the love I am developing for you.”

His muscled arms held me tighter and we fell asleep. No sex, no lust, just the loving we both craved for eternities. 

The next morning I awoke to a note on my nightstand.

I enjoyed you, breakfast will be here in a few, meet me at Tiffany’s around noon. -T.R.

I took my time, dressed in the robe that laid across the chase by the window in his room and ate the fresh fruit, waffles, eggs, and bacon he ordered for me.

At noon I met Tiffany and picked out our first promise ring. No expectations just with the content feeling of falling in love in less than 24 hours.

Undercover Porn Star

It was my first night on the streets, I wore the perfect outfit that clearly portrayed a boss amongst these minions. 

       My shorts hugged my hips as the belt I wore captured my tiny waist.

“ Come on girl let’s stunt on em’ a little bit,” my friend said to me.

I humbly obliged, walking through the bar in my famous Beyonce stroll.

My hips switched and swayed as I licked my supple lips. 

“ Taste this!” my other girl said as she shoved a shot into my face.

I swallowed the pink concoction as my tongue licked up the drops that attempted to escape my lips.

“ Lovely, “ was all I could say, “ What is it?”

“The best wet pussy you will ever taste,” she winked at me. I let the shot flow down my throat silky and smoothly, “ If this is what pussy tastes like then I’m playing for the wrong team, “ I winked back at her. 

The sounds of Dance for you dripped from the speakers. My body couldn’t help but to move.  That naughty feeling I had tried to suppress  seeped out of my pours dripping down my perky breasts and landing in my moist mistress.

It was one of those nights when I wanted to give my mistress what she deserves. So I began toying with each one of the eyes and chiseled chins that looked my way. As the beat dropped  my hips and  breasts circulated into the most seductive dance that no man could resist. That’s when he made his move. Gliding across the floor as my web of lust reeled him in. The sly grin on his face told me he wanted to teach me a lesson and I felt like breaking all of the rules.

No words were spoken within the first minutes of meeting each other, but his hands caressing the nape of my lower back let me know that our conversation is going to be one filled with yes’s and stop please’s. His lips gently brushed against my ear as I felt his tongue swipe across my lobe. He exhaled slowly and said to me ,” I don’t want to let you go.”

“ Then don’t, “ I responded with a coy smile. 

My confirmation to his caressing increased his grip.

“ I won’t, “ He said, “ And I don’t ever plan to.”

I turned to face him. My tightly fitted shorts hugged each and every curve, the lace top I wore playfully danced against my pushed up breasts. As my mistress wetted like it were a river  trying to flow.

“ What’s on your mind, he asked.”

“ A movie,” I responded

“ O really what flick,”

“The one with your tongue drumming against my.....I’m sure you have dreamt the script before,” I looked back and winked.

“ Is that right?”

“ No, it’s very wrong, it’s like your the superhero bringing out my villain.”

“ Then why not let me save you?”

An irresistible smirk laced my face. I believe my mistress has developed a crush while my mind and body fell in love. It was a second of bliss. 

“ A hero ay?” I turned  around and grazed his ears with my pursed lips wet with lust and heated with seduction. I whispered,” Let’s see if you can save me.”

His loss of rhythm let me know that I had taken him a back. He became clumsy tripping over nothing, but my pure swag. 

So as any entertainer would do, I worked my hustle. I let my hips swirl, switch and dip. I rang him up and prepared him for his receipt of me. 

As his hand gripped my lower back tighter, his fingers slipped down the curve of my dimpled ass. He was falling into my beat and I did nothing but produce.

“ What are you doing tonight?” he asked. His warm and deep breathing went hand in hand with his stiffened manhood. “ I would do anything to have you,” he said.

“ Anything or everything?” I asked ever so innocently.

He kissed me on cheek and whispered into my ear, “I’d like to answer that question for the rest of our lives.”

The game changed, we were caught up in each other. I hadn’t realized that we danced through the latest series Dj Knife cut across the floor. 

My friends stared idly, their faces read, “ How does she do that shit?” 

I smiled to myself while mentally patting myself on the back. Those years of studying pimpology were paying off. 

“ Something tells me that you are trouble,” he whispered in my ear.

“ Trouble? Me?” I asked sheepishly, “ Nah I’m more like mischief, the one your mother warns you about.” 

“ Well my mother told me don’t fall in love on the first night, but sometimes momma doesn’t always know best.”

“ Well played,” I thought to myself.

“ Mmm ....Ok daddy, “ I whispered, with a slight quiver in my lower lips. He made me feel like the naughty school girl. All I wanted was a spanking for all the wrong doings I thought of doing to him.

“ Looks like your people are ready to go,”  he said as he looked into my eyes.

“ I guess so. Let me not be rude,” I guided his hands down my hips, around my ass and away from my body. I didn’t want him to have a sugar rush from caressing all of the sticky and wet sweetness that seeped through my outfit. 

“ Yea, save that rude ass for Mr. Nice guy, “ he winked and replied. 

“ I’ll save it, as long as you deposit generously,” I seductively replied.

He laughed, “ Let me walk you ladies to your car.”

As we walked through the city streets I felt his hand lightly brush mine, curious to see if I would hold it. But my pornstar didn’t want his hand it wanted something else. 

“Thanks for being a gentleman, “ I said and kissed him softly on his cheek, “ I’ll see you later,” I whispered into his ear. 

“ It would be my pleasure,” he replied. 

That night my Iphone glowed with his name.

“ When can I see you again? “ he asked. 

“ Mmm....” I started to respond, I wanted luxury. For this pornstar wasn’t a Jocelyn but a Pinky of the highest class. 

“ Let’s say the Chatté, at 3 can you book it?” I asked.

“ Done deal,” he responded.

The Chatté was the place known for acting out your deepest fantasies. No inhibitions, no judgements, just sex in every way you can and want to imagine. 

At 3am my LED lights shined through the parking lot. He waited patiently in his Benz. It was sleek, smooth, and sexy just as he was. The tint in his windows couldn't hide his anticipation. 

I slipped out of the car in my dark green trench coat and silky Prada scarf wrapped around my neck and head. As his gift I wanted to unwrap each knot and button at a time. I like making him wait.

As we entered the Chatté the hostess led us to our room. Just as I requested a long sleek pole stood in the middle waiting for me to grace it’s cylinder. 

“ Sit down,” I said as the lust floated off of my lips like smoke from a hookah.

He placed his blazer on the back of the chair, unbuttoned the first two buttons of his shirt and relaxed.

I pressed play, as Jill prepared him to be So Gone.

I gently began unbuttoning my coat. I played with each button as if it were his fingers toying with my nipples. Then I untied the knot that was at the nape of my neck, letting the Prada fall and sweep across the floor. He stared at my fingers as I licked and sucked on my index finger then my middle telling him that I wanted to fuck him.

With my coat and scarf laid across the floor I flipped onto the pole. Allowing my legs to split as I kept my eyes on him in my upside down position. As I glided down the pole I thought about the moment. 

I led him to a private place where no one could see my stripper tendencies and film the best Redtube video that could ever be made.

I let the lace from my black thong quiver around my hips as I danced around the pole. I clapped my ass applauding the night thus far. 

His hazel eyes glowed in the dimly lit room. I watched as I entranced him. I hypnotized his mind and let his imagination wander into all the fantasies he never thought he would play out. 

I was his red light special, giving him the green light to all the pleasures he would experience that night. 

I walked over to him, each stiletto in front of the other; dropped down and let my leg’s spread into a Lil’ Kim cover shot.

I swayed, dipped, and rotated my ass as I unloosed his buckle. I grasped his zipper and unzipped the wall standing between me and the pole I had waited to slide down the entire night. 

I placed my hand around his shaft and cupped my lips around the head that held his anticipation. As I opened my throat wider, I sucked his soul out of him. I was the grim reaper of his desires and he humbly paid his debt.

His grip on the nape of my neck got tighter and he let out a moan filled, “ Shit.”

I had him where I wanted him. Still stroking him with my hand I sat on his lap and straddled the chair as I rode him. 

His hands, callused from his hard work, felt like fire as he imprinted his fingertips into each one of my dimpled cheeks. His eyes never left mine, I watched him fall in love with me with ever vibration of my walls. 

Then I swirled around him as if I was making a candy cane of out of our two flavors of orgasmic tastes. I had him in my favorite position. He slapped my ass with one hand and held my lower back with the other. He knew just how to make me flood onto his vast land. As I bounced my ass I played with his twins, giving each attention so one wouldn’t get jealous of the other. 

Time was no longer a factor. I was a delicacy that had slow cooked his pleasures until we both were steaming, hot, and sticky. 

He gripped my ass tighter, tensed his legs and released. My job was done and my customer was exceptionally satisfied.

The next afternoon I came home to a package sitting on my steps. His name tagged the top of it with a note:

“ The make up bag, for the lipstick that stained my heart and kissed my head - J “

I opened the box to find my tip. A red leathered Louis. My trickin’ had gotten it, and he didn’t want to let go. 

Chapter 5

Chapter 5 ( sneak peak)

The next morning Sofia finally mustered up the courage to leave her room. The smell of bacon, eggs, and grits tingled her senses. Her mother knew just how to draw her  further out of her room.

“ Hey mommy,” she said gruffly.

“ Good morning my love, hungry? “ her mother more so stated than asked. She placed a huge plate in front of her. Sofia’s eyes widened at the amount of food.

“ I can’t eat all of this, “ she said in a depressed and defeated voice.

“ Eat as much as you can baby, I gotta put some meat on your bones,” her mother smiled in response. She gazed upon her daughters frail and disappearing frame. 

As Sofia attempted to pick up her spoon her hand shook. She was weak from sleepless nights, and fringed nerves. Her mother took her spoon from her and fed her as if she were the infant she had brought home 26 years ago. She blew gently on the hot spponful, cupped her hand underneath it and slowly fed Sofia bigger spoonfuls than the one she was feeding herself.

“ Mommy....” Sofia groaned.

“ Shhh... just eat,” she said to her daughter.

As her mother continued feeding her, Sofia heard her front door close. Her ears perked as she quickly said, “ Charles?!” 

“ No baby it’s daddy,” he father entered the kitchen. With one look Sofia’s sobs returned. He rushed over to his daughter’s side. Both he and her mother held her.

“ It will be okay baby I promise, “ he father said.

Sofia wiped her eyes, “ I can’t keep doing this,” she sniffled, “ He isn’t crying over me so why am I wasting tears on him?” she snuffed.

“ Babygirl I’m sure he is crying somewhere, regretting every second of the past few weeks,” He father reassured her, “ If not he damn sure will when I get a hold of him.”

The night Charles broke the news Sofia’s father went on a man hunt determined to make Charles feel the pain he put his daughter through..

“ Has anyone seen the boy?” Sofia’s mother asked.

“ No, no one knows where he is,” her father responded.

“ That bastard,” her mother whispered, “ Come on babygirl let’s get you out of this dress, and freshen you up, it will make you feel better.” 

Sofia’s father started to clean the kitchen as she and her mother walked slowly up the stairs. He mother carried the train of her dress lifting the weight off of Sofia’s back. When they entered her room her mother ran her a bath and began clearing the wreckage that was once Sofia and Charles’ master bedroom.

Once the tub filled with hot water, she put put eight drops of lavender oil to help soothe Sofia as she soaked.

“ Thank you mommy,” Sofia said meekly. 

Sofia sat in the tub and stared into space. She looked like a zombie, completely zoned out and unaware that her mother was bathing her.

Her mother hummed an old lullaby as she washed her daughter’s back. She squeezed a sponge full of water on top of Sofia’s head and began gently washing her hair. The water brought Sofia’s senses back to life. She inhaled for the first time in weeks.

After her bath Sofia went downstairs to sit on the porch with her parents. They both sat on the chair swing sipping a cup of tea. She sat in between them and laid her head on her father’s shouldered.

“Feel better? “ he asked.

“ A little,” she responded.

“ Each day will get better,” he responded.

“ I know daddy I ....I just want my other half,” she whimpered, “ I want to feel whole again.” 

“ You were whole before him and you are whole after him,” he father said strongly, “ He was an addition to your magnificence.” 

Sofia sighed as she closed her eyes, and inhaled the comforting smell of her father’s after shave. 

The phone ring,  as she motioned to get it, her body flopped back into the chair, too weak to raise itself.

“ I’ll get it,” her mother gently patted Sofia on her thigh. 

“ Ok,” Sofia said, she snuggled closer to her father.

Sofia’s mother returned to the porch with a stern look on her face. The same look she wore when Sofia told her that she was moving in with Charles before they got married. 

“ Who is it?” her father asked.

Her mother looked at her father then at Sofia.

“ It’s Charles,” she said.

**** To purchase the book Sofia’s love please email Kyndall at kbp0227@gmail.com***

Chapter 4- Sofia's Love

“ You plan on rotting here?” Charles heard a familiar voice ask him.

As he slowly opened his eyes the sun blinded him from seeing the figure in front of him. He must have passed out from drinking.

“ Come on man....what would your mother say?” Zach reached down to pull his drunkened cousin up from the chair where he had fallen asleep.

“ How did you know I was here? “ Charles asked. His throat was raw from the Jack Daniels. He didn’t expect any visitors.

“ Man, I’ve know your ass since you were two you think I can’t find you?” Zach responded, “ How do you feel?”

Zach gazed at his cousin. After 26 years he had never seen Charles look so defeated, even when his mother passed away.

“ Why do you care?” Charles retorted, irritated at the fact he had been found in his secret hideout.

“Look man, I’m not the one who caused this mess I’m just trying to make sure you made it out ok. Especially since you dropped hiroshima on the fam and all.”

“ You were the one talking about how much the ring cost and my guessing,” Charles spitefully responded.

“ Calm down man, you know I would never wish any shit like this on you or Sofia,” Zach spat back.

Zach and Charles always had small tifts, even as kids. But this tift felt like war.

“ So what are you trying to say? This shit is all on me?!” Charles asked.

“ I just want to check on you man, that’s all,” Zach said gently.

“ Yea well I’m good,” Charles responded.

“ Good, then you can kick the cast away look and get freshened up, pop has been looking for you all over the place.”

“ yea I figured,” Charles responded guiltily, “ I’ll meet you at the house in an hour ok?” 

“ Aight man,” Zach responded hesitantly. He looked at Charles, “ You promise?”

“ Yea, bet.” Charles responded.

“ Aight man, I’ll see you in a few,” Zach got up from his chair and patted Charles on the shoulder, “ I love you man, no homo.” 

Charles let out a slight laugh, “ Love you too man.”

Charles waited until he heard Zach pull out of the dock before he headed below to freshen up.

He hadn’t showered in days. His 5 o’clock shadow looked more like 10 o’clock. The last time he shaved was the night after he broke the news. He remembered that evening as if it were yesterday.

“ Did you tell her? She asked.

“ Yea,” Charles lied.

“ How did she take it?” she asked again.

“ You already asked me that,” Charles snapped back.

“ I...I’m sorry,” she bowed her head in shame. 

Charles felt bad for being so mean, “ I”m sorry I’m not in my right mind, how are you holding up? You know with everything and all?”

“ I’m still kicking, well should I say he’s still kicking,” She motioned down to her stomach. 

“ Good,” Charles rubbed the bulge that housed his future son. 

He had asked her to meet him in their usual spot on the other side of Hollywood, he didn’t want to run the risk of anyone seeing him after last night.

“ So, what’s next?” she asked.

Charles sighed,” I’ll find a house for us and the baby, can you give me a month at least.”

“ I can do that,” She responded sweetly, “ Can I shop with you?”

“ NO!” Charles quickly responded.

“ What do you mean NO?!” her voice began to raise, “ You told her already why hide? I thought this is what you wanted?” 

“ It is,” Charles tried to gather his thoughts, “ It’s just complicated right now okay?” 

“ The last thing I want is for anything to happen to you or my son,” he continued.

“OUR son,” she quickly spat.

“ Right. Our son.” Charles said quietly.

“ 30 days Charles that’s it I’m ready to be a family just like you promised,” she reminded him.

“ And we will be, I just need time to clean up the mess so it can just be me, you, and the baby,” Charles grasped her hand and gently squeezed it. He felt the tension release as she became comforted by his touch.

“ Okay,” she responded. He leaned in and kissed her gently on her forehead.

As Charles wiped the steam from the shower off of his mirror, he stared at the man in the mirror. He no longer knew who he was he just knew that he had to make moves.

Chapter 3- Sofia's Love

“ Sofie baby, it’s mommy open the door sweety,”

Sophia groaned as she rose from her bed two weeks after Charles left her without explanation. She still wore the crystal encrusted ball gown she personally designed for her wedding day. She still went through with the ceremony as planned hoping he would come to his senses. Instead of meeting her husband at the alter Sofia was met with judgmental eyes and stale emotions.

  Her gown, was covered in salted tissues  the weight of it caused her to slump, she gazed at her mats of hair and withered made up face.  

She slowly trudged towards her door. 

“ Well hello there princess, how are we doing?” her mother asked sweetly.

“Ughhhhhhhhhhh,” Sophie grumbled as she flopped back into her sheets.

She felt her mother sit beside her and stroke her matted curls. 

“ You have to get out of bed baby,” her mother said softly.

“ I’m just tired mommy. Just....” and then she began to sob.

Her mother quickly grasped her daughter and held her. She wanted to love her daughter’s hurt away. Yet she knew the kisses could not recover the pieces of her daughters broken heart.

“ Why mommy? Why didn’t he call? Why haven’t I seen him? WHAT DID I DO?!!?!!” Sofia became hysterical. Charles left her without a clue nor indication that he had fallen out of love with her. His speech even confirmed it. That day was perfect....

“Bay?!” “Bayyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyy!” Sofia yelled from the bottom of the stairs. She had just finished making breakfast, 

“ Yea baby,”

“Don’t forget to bring everything down for our trip.”

“I won’t Sofie,” She’s relentless Charles thought to himself.

He neatly placed each days outfit on his bed wondering if he had over packed for his wedding weekend. 

“How long are we staying at the spot?” He yelled back down to Sophia.

“Two days baby,” she yelled back, “ Tonight is the rehearsal and dinner, then we are having our prelude barbecue before the wedding.” 

Sofia smiled to herself as she said it with a country accent.

Upstairs Charles finished his packing and made his way to Sophie.

“ Do you like the name?” Sofia asked her Fiance.

“ What? What are you talking about baby?” he responded as he trotted down the stairs.

“ Nevermind,” Sophia sighed. I swear he’s deaf, she thought to herself

That afternoon Sofia and Charles spent the day riding through the Califorina streets. She loved their trips. It was like they were Bonnie and Clyde onto their next adventure. 

“ Wow, “ She heard Charles say, “ This is beautfiul.”

“ You like?” Sofia asked as they pulled into the circular drive way of the San Diego Estate she booked for the wedding. The grounds were perfectly kept, it was covered in white lilies and dogwoods. It’s 1892 structure stood with strength. Each window pane glistened in the afternoon sun. It was everything Sophia could have imagined. She first saw it on the cover of a magazine as she walked by. When she saw it a second time on David Tutera she was convinced it was a sign that she was to be married there. 

“ Yea,,” Charles responded. He always felt that Sophia overspent. He was never into the finer things in life, having his needs met was enough.

Sofia gently grasped her Fiance’s hand as they headed inside the mansion of the estate.

“ Welcome to the Saint Bernadine Estates,” The Manager said as she ushered them into the foyer. The grandeur stair case was laced in gold it matched the crystals that gleamed from the chandelier.

As Sofia and Charles walked through the home, the history and beauty left them both speechless.

“ We have set up 43 bedrooms for your guests in addition to round the clock room service,” the manager motioned to each guest house covering the 12 acre land. 

“ Additionally our in house chef will cook for the duration of the weekend.”

“ That sounds lovely!” Sophia squealed as she clapped her hands together,” Isn’t it wonderful baby?!” 

“ That it is.” Charles said.

“ One last thing, “ the manager led Sophia and Charles to the back of the house, “Mr. Grey Sophia informed me that your venue would be a surprise.”

“ That she did,” he gently kissed Sophia on the cheek.

“ Well then, you will be pleased to see where you will be exchanging your vows.”

Behind the house was a private lake. Charles’ jaw dropped as he witnessed the beauty. The lake was a third of the 12 acre land. It sparkled like diamonds in the sun. The crisp blue water looked good enough to drink.

Although the wedding decor had not been set, Charles was happy to exchange his vows in such an enchanting location.

“ Bay how did you... I... I’m just in awe,” was all that Charles could manage to say.

“See...I knew you would love it,” Sofia mentally patted herself on the back, “ After our wedding you and I can sit out on our private dock and watch the stars.”

Sofia knew how much Charles enjoyed the outdoors. The lake was the icing on the cake.

“ I can’t wait to marry you baby,” Charles said.

“ Me neither.”

Later that night Charles and Sofia met their family and friends in the foyer.

“ Sofia I can’t believe you found this location!” Erika exclaimed.

“ Yea girl this shit must have cost you a fortune,”  Gayle said.

“ Language Gayle,” Sofia quickly retorted.

“ Uh Oh let me find out you got all she she frew frew on me,” Gayle playfully responded.

With one look at each other the girls burst into laughter.

“ Gayle why do we always cut up around you?” Erika asked.

“ Because you tight wads barely breathe in that firm of yours,” 

“ Sad to say, she’s right,” Sofia said to Erika.

“ Yea , but this weekend is all about you honey and..,” Erika began to say.

“ And we are going to CUT IT ALL UP!” Gayle interrupted. 

The laughter from Sofia and her best friends filled the foyer. 

“ Man, you sure you ready,” James asked Charles as they sat down in the cigar room.

Charles sighed, “ Yea man better time than any I guess,” he responded as he lit a  complimentary cuban. 

“ You guess?!” Charles’ cousin Zach questioned, “ Nigga you bought a $30,000 dollar ring for that girl you better be sure!.”

“ Damn Zach why does the cost of her ring always seem to come up with you?” Charles could feel the blood rushing to his hands. 

“ I’m just saying man, just because you are a big shot doesn’t mean that you have to spend big shot money, especially not for a girl you are guessing about.”

“ If you want keep your teeth I suggest you shut the hell up,” Charles spitefully responded.

“ Whoa, guys,” James chuckled nervously, “ Charles is completely undeniably sure he loves Sofia, if he isn’t I’ll wife her up and pawn that $30,000 dollar ring for myself.”

They laughed, “ Man you are stupid for that one, “ Zach said through his laughs.

“ I’m just saying,” James grinned.

“ Attention everyone,” the house manager yelled,” Dinner is served.” 

As the guests entered the dining room they were greeted by a long table lined with golden plates and utensils. The table scape was that of royalty. The royal purple lilies ,from the estate’s garden, were neatly arranged in the middle of each section of the table. Hand scripted place cards sat on top of the golden speckled napkins. The gold chairs were complimented by cream colored cushions. The room was illuminated with 18th century chandeliers. The room held just the right amount of glamor. 

“ Wow,” was the only word said by all.

“ You are way passed she she frew frew,” Gayle whispered to Sofia.

Sofia’s grinned covered her entire face. She reveled in the compliments and attention.

Once everyone set at their seats, Erika stood to give her speech, she tapped lightly on her glass of champagne to get everyone’s attention.

“ First and foremost I just want to thank Charles and Sofia for having their wedding weekend in such a magical place,” everyone nodded in agreement,” Sofia, I have known you for eight long years now, and I have never seen you smile as much as you do when you are with Charles. Everyday you walk with a glow, I don’t know what you are doing Charles, but if you are going to do it for the rest of her life.... I’m going to have to marry you too!” the crowd roared with laughter, “ But on a serious note you two are meant for each other. Your bond makes my heart smile, and gives me  hope that my prince charming is still out there.” 

“ That’s right!” Sofia said.

Erika winked at her best friend cuddled up with her fiance,” To Sofia and Charles!” 

Sofia looked around as everyone raised their glasses to toast. Everyone she had ever loved surrounded her. From her 91 year old bubby to her closest friends. It was a dream come true and she never wanted to wake up.

“ And now, the groom will give a speech,” Charles’ Grandfather belted quickly.

“ Oooo no, no,” Charles responded playfully.

“ Speech! Speech!” The guests urged.

“ Well since you pressured me I guess I can give a speech and all, “ Charles reached into his blazer pocket and pulled out the speech he had written for his family, friends, and Sofia.

He cleared his throat, “ Sofia, from the first day I saw you I knew you would be the one for me. Remember that day? You came into the cafe like a ray of sunshine. I’ll never forget how my heart skipped seeing you. Over the years we have had our ups and downs from family illness to your cancer. But through it all we still held strong,” Sofia’s eyes began to water as she thought of those times. “ I am honored to call you my wife and blessed to have you for a lifetime, I love you baby you are my world.”

Charles bent down and softly kissed Sofia. 

“Thank you bay,” she whispered.

As Sofia’s sobs subsided, she continued replaying that moment in her mind. Charles had no signs of doubt. Sofia held her head as it pounded with questions. She took another Zanax to numb her emotions. Secretly she hoped it would stop her heart, for the pieces inside jabbed at her broken soul.

Chapter 2-Sofia's Love

The next morning charles awoke to the sounds of the waves crashing against his boat. 

“ I feel like shit,” he said to himself.

As he surveyed his place of refuge, last night slowly pieced itself together. The second half of his suit laid lifeless on a fold out chair, he noticed the vows he had written for Sofia hanging hopelessly from his pocket. He continued to notice his cuff links and the rolex his grandfather gave him last night at rehearsal.

“ You are my proudest moment,” Charles heard his grandfather say as he pat him on his back. Even for 73 his grandfather still held it’s athletic frame. His dark cocoa skin gleamed, the dimples from generations encrusted his cheeks. Even for an old man his salt and pepper hair suited him. 

“Here.”

His grandfather handed him a navy box wrapped tightly in a sky blue ribbon. On the box it said, “ To my true Son, from your Grandfather.” 

As Charles opened the box he felt his heart flood with honor, dignity, and love. 

“ The Rolex,” was all he could manage to say. The vintage 1924 Rolex laid perfectly on a small silk pillow. It’s white gold wrist band shined at Charles as it complimented the diamonds surrounding it’s black face. It was worth more than Charles’ house, car, motorcycle, and salary combined. His great great grandfather bought it with his first check. The first document ever to be written in his name. It was the document that started his family, it was the first property owned by the first Charles Grey. 

“ I couldn’t have thought of a better time, “ his grandfather said. His grey eyes looked deeply into Charles’. 

He had always known his Grandfather to be his father. He raised Charles after his father decided heroin was worth more than time with his son.     

Charles rubbed his hands over his head as if he tried to release the flashbacks from last night. Sofia’s face. He had never seen her so hurt, it was as if he had taken her soul from her. He could never face that. 

He walked up to his dock to breathe in the fresh air. The seagulls had conveniently nestled themselves in his boat chairs. He looked into the distance as if searching for some type of out. He hadn’t even checked his phone. 

Reluctantly he reached his hand into his pocket to face his fate. 

“ 57 texts, 42 missed calls, and 36 voicemails,” he said, “ pshh, you’d think I shot Obama.”  Before checking the first message Charles grabbed the bottle of Jack Daniel’s that he slept with last night. It was half full. 

“ Let the good times roll, “ he sarcastically cheered to the seagulls.

“Charles this is Erika let me know if you need me to call your boys.”

“ Charles it’s your grandfather call me son,” hearing the sound of his grandfather’s voice shattered the last bit of strength and dignity Charles had. Tears flowed from his eyes and welled into puddles along the dock. He swallowed another shot of Jack to temporally ease the pain. 

He felt his phone vibrate in his hand, as he looked down at the caller id he was relieved it wasn’t anyone from last night. 

“ How did it go?”

“ Better than 9-11, “ he sarcastically replied, “ I’ll see you tonight.”

“ Ok,” the voice replied. 

As Charles looked out into the sea he watched his life get carried away by the tide wondering where it would be.