Chapter 24: V.asoactive I.ntestinal P.olypeptide

TAKE CARE
                                                                                                                                Cooncerely,
                                                                                                                                         Green & Purp

The night of Drake’s release party had arrived and I wasn’t too thrilled to go. Safaree had come in last night and didn’t even say hi or bye. I guess he didn’t wanna wake me, but damn, who just get’s home so late and leaves that early? Shit, I wouldn’t've known if he hadn’t turn the freakin’ air on blast like it’s not the middle of October. Moron. I thought to myself before stepping out the shower and drying off.

Wayne was right. Drake would be happy if I showed up in pajamas. As long as I showed up. So I decided to dress semiformal and went with something comfortable. A form fitting, black, Versace vest with silver buttons and a black and silver bustier underneath. I put on matching black skinnys of the same material, a silver belt, and dressed my feet in some silver ankle boots. As for my hair I kept it simple by putting it in a Chinese bun with the Chinese bang. It was similar to the way it was in my first photo shoot with Honey Mag, but less messy.

Earlier today I’d gotten some extensions put in cuz I have a couple photo shoots coming up before I head back east. Terrence had added white, pink and silver dyed pieces to the back for the first shoot which would be a play off of my Beam Me Up Scotty era. I left my face alone since Day was in town and on her way here to do it. The last thing I had left to do on my own was find some jewelry. Going into my closet, I unlocked one of my jewelry boxes and searched through it. I got out a pair of long dangling diamond earrings and two diamond rings, before locking it back and going in my second one. I was going to wear my diamond encrusted watch, but that would’ve been too much. So I just settled on a diamond tennis bracelet before locking that box back. Last but not least, I needed a necklace.  Nothing, too big or long. Pauz. Just a simple statement. I chose my platinum  necklace with the heart shaped diamond. It was only a carat and a half, but it was still one of my favorite pieces.

Wayne appeared in my door way with a smirk on his face. He had on a pair of black Gucci jeans, a white v-neck t-shirt, and a black cardigan sweater that had two red horizontal stripes on each arm. There was a letter F over the left of his chest. I laughed inside at all the things he could say it stood for. Under his New Orleans Saints snapback he had his dreads to the back in a loose half ponytail. His wrist was shining with a diamond Cartier wristwatch and matching stud earrings. On his feet was a pair of black and red IV Jordans. I only know the number ‘cause SB insists you know what you’re wearing and I have a pair in white and purple. He looked good though. Not too flashy.

          “Yo date’s here.” He spoke up after checking out my fit... I guess.

          “How do I look?” I asked him. I must’ve caught him off guard cuz he stared at me like he had to think about it.

          “You aiight.” He answered. I rolled my eyes.

          “Oh. That’s it? Aiight?” I asked, before going to grab my purse off the bed. “No, ‘you bad, Nic’?” I paused. “‘You know you look good’? ‘Great…”

          “Beautiful.” He finished. I licked my lips. I could tell I was blushing.

          “Thanks.” I told him, making my way to the front and just in time too, cuz the door buzzed.

8

          We hopped in the limo and made our way to the party. When we got there I was shocked to see that there wasn’t a carpet rolled out, full of press and paps. The driver parked in front of the entrance, got out, then helped me out. I thanked him before Wayne came around to give me his arm. Taking it, he guided me to the door that was guarded by two huge bouncers who reminded me of my baby Dream. I made a mental note to call and see how things were going for him. He was with me for so long. I smiled as I remembered the many times he’d be doing the most. He’s definitely more than a former employee.

The bouncer on the left did a knock, interrupting my trip down memory lane and causing someone to open the door. When we entered I could hear a muffled sound of music playing in the background as an older man greeted us.

“Welcome. Can I take your coats?”

“Sure ca…”

“Naw. Ain’t there a closet up in V.I.P.?” Wayne interjected, while taking off his hood and shades.

“I’m sorry Mr. Carter. I didn’t want to assume.”

“It’s cool.” He chuckled, before putting his shades back on.  The man relaxed and walked to the double doors. I looked around and saw the woman’s bathroom to the right. Even though I don’t like using public restrooms, I made a mental note of its location just incase.

“Enjoy.” The man told us while opening the door.

The place was packed with so many familiar faces. And of course they were all greeting us as soon as we walked in. Before his visit was over I’d ask Wayne how he pulled this off without the media finding out, but right now I had to focus on keeping my body language neutral. As Wayne took my coat and handed it to E.I., I mentally prepared myself for tonight. I could handle the feeling of constantly being watched, the complements and the loud music. But it’s those questions like, how are you? What’s been going on? And where’s SB?, that I dreaded. I quickly scanned the room and saw that Wayne went all out for this shit. Everything went with Drakes theme. Golden balloons, three different buffets, a big ass golden wine fountain, and etc. To the right, above some curtains was a huge screen with Drake’s owl logo projected on it. I looked up towards the left and saw quite a few OVO and YM standing near the balcony that wrapped around the top of half of this huge room. I can’t imagine all the moves he made to set this up. But I know he better show his ass again, when the time for my album release party comes around. He smiled at me ogling, then left me for Marley G. I mingled a bit, talking and taking pictures, before making my way up to V.I.P. I figured I’d just stay and lounge with my fam, especially since I was kinda alone.

8

          About 30 minutes had gone by when Future took over the DJ’s booth. He cut the music abruptly and everyone started to look his way. Hearing a loud boo coming from the crowed, people began to laugh. I just shook my head cuz I already knew who it was.

          “Don’t mind Streets. He’s just mad cuz I refused to let him get up here and yell bang bang for everyone’s attention.” Future informed. Laughs erupted louder than before. I looked down to see Millz, Twist, Chuckee and Za pulling and shoving Streets around.

          “Alright, settle down. This ain’t a mosh pit.” He told them. “I just got off the phone with Niko. Him and 40 are 10 minutes away with Aubrey.” Everyone yay-ed. I saw Wayne jog up the few stairs and the house DJ handed him a mic.

          “What it do?” He asked. Some people actually started to answer back. “Okay, cool.” He said, cutting them off. I smiled. “So all y’all niggas remember the plan, right?” Everyone said some form of yes or just nodded their heads. I twisted my face and heard Mack chuckle. I walked over towards him and leaned on the banister in the empty space to his right. “Aiight, we gone hit the lights when CJ comes in and signals.” He said, referring to Drake’s CJ Gibson. Not my CJ, Young Vak. Who was probably somewhere with SB, helping him ruin our friendship. Loser. When Wayne finished he gave the mic back and left the booth.

          “What’s the plan?” I asked Mack. He just ignored me. I punched him in the arm before walking around him. “Cory?” He shrugged. “Ummhm.” I moved onto Short who was already leanin’. “Short?”

          “We ‘sposed..”

          “Son.” Cory scolded, cutting him off. I glared at Cory. Mack chuckled again. If Gudda was up here he’d tell me, but Wayne already knew that, and that’s why he had my twin down there with him. Smart ass.

          “Forget y’all.” I said, leaving them to ask Baby, but not before punching Mack in the same spot as before.

          “You gone quit hittin’ me.” He huffed. I just flicked him off, still walking towards Slim and Baby’s booth. I stopped before coming into their view and put on my pouty face. As I approached the table, that face quickly changed into disgust after seeing Baby’s groupies hanging off him like sucker fish. At least Slim’s hoes had some type of class. I leaned on the table and Slim lifted his head. Swear he has to do that cuz his eye lids won’t raise no higher.

          “Who disturbin’ da Queen now?” Slim teased.

          “Mack big headed self.” I huffed. “And he got Cory and Short helpin’ him too.” Slim just smiled. That’s right. The kid can make anybody smile.

          “So…” I said, looking back and forth between them.

          “Hold up, Barbie.” Baby told me. “Y’all go to the bathroom or somethin’.” He told the four girls who were sitting with them. Slim nodded in agreement as they got up to leave.

          “Hey.” I called out to the girls. I wanted to tell them not to come back and that they deserved better, but I’ve tried that before. They hear me, but never really listen. Plus, who am I to judge? Especially in my current situation. “Could you grab me something to drink?” I asked, looking towards Slim’s girls. One of them got a little attitude. Guess she was mad cuz not only was I the reason she was leaving, but now I was asking her to wait on me. I was gonna say never mind until the other one spoke up.

          “Sure girl. Whatchu want?” She asked in a southern twang that I loved.

          “I don’t know. Surprise me.” I told her. She nodded. “But not too strong.” I added. She smiled as the other girls began walking off. “I want you to get it. I don’t trust them bitches.” I said in a low tone. She giggled while nodding her head.

          “Me either. And I’ve known two of them for most of my life.” She said before walking away to catch up with them. I turned to Slim.

          “I might have to take that one from you.” I teased, but didn’t get a smile out of it. “I’m just fuckin’ with you, Slim Jim.” I assured him while sitting down next to Baby who had a grin on his face.

          “So what you need?” Baby asked. I glared at him.

          “I’m good. Shit, I’m ‘bout to be up there with you niggas in a year or two.” I said in my cocky tone.

          “Belee dat.” Baby said, rubbing his hands together.

          “Woe.” I finished.

          “So whatchu want den.” Slim asked.

          “Why I’on know the plan?” I whined.

          “Jr. ain’t tell you?” Baby asked. I shook my head.

          “I wonder why.” Slim said, sardonically. I folded my arms across my chest. Where was this girl at with my drink?

          “And y’all ain’t gone tell me either.”

          “Nope.” Slim said, before taking a sip out his glass.

          “Fine then.” I said getting up. I gave Baby my pouty face.

          “Sorry, Barbie.” He told me.

          I was about to tell him don’t lie when the girls came back. I stepped to the side so they could sit back down, but they waited for the guys to give the okay before doing so. Two girls climbed over Slim and Baby to get in between them. Making sure they asses and titties was all in their faces. Their thirst almost made me thow up in my mouth. I turned, and sighed in relief when I saw Slim’s other girl with my drink.

          “Here you go…” She began while handing it over.

          “Nicki.” I told her. She giggled.

          “I know. I’m Reese.” She said. Oop. Slim done got him a stripper.

          “Cute.” I said.

          “Thanks. You’re not too shabby yo self.” She said. I gave her a weak smile. It was hurting me to like her. Drake done rubbed off on me with this Captain Save A Hoe mentality.

          “So I’ll see y’all later.” I told Slim and Baby. They nodded. “It was nice to meet you Reese.” I said, before turning to walk away.

          “You too.” I heard her say.

          I saw an empty couch to the far right of this oversized V.I.P. It was in a dimly lit corner and perfect for my current mood. As I sat down I noticed Courtne, Oliver and Hush huddled up near the right stair case that leads down to the stage. I said a silent prayer and took a sip of the drink Reese brought me. It was really good. A bit strong, but it’s expected. I don’t know how many times a Bartender’s told me not to waste their time, and I should’ve just asked for some juice or a soda. Jerks.

         

I heard awes and got up to see what for. Lookin over the banister I saw Tyga and his cute little lesbian friend getting bombarded. The DJ lowered the music.

          “It’s okay y’all. Tyga got held up due to pussy.” My eyes bucked at his bold ass comment. “That his date was getting.” He finished. Everyone laughed including Tyga. “Please excuse me Miss Cocaine. I’ve had too much to drink.” She waved him off, still laughing. I squinted my eyes to see the DJ’s face better and recognized him from somewhere. This gave me an excuse to go over to Oliver and them.

          “Hey sexy.” I greeted Oliver, nudging him on his shoulder. He blushed.

          “Girl. Please don’t pump his head up anymore than it already is.” Courtne pleaded. I laughed. Oliver was a quiet white boy.

          “She’s right.” Hush chimed in. “Nigga got a haircut and think he Eminem or somethin’.”

          “So you think Em’s sexy, eh?” I joked. We laughed, while Hush ironically stayed quiet.

          “So ask us already.” She told me. I smirked.

          “Damn. Y’all really live this owl thing to the fullest huh?”

          “Yep.” Oliver said seriously.

          “Are you guys even gonna tell me if I do?”

          “Why should we?” Hush asked.

          “Cuz if you don’t, you’ll be on the list of meanies when I complain to Aubrey.” I threatened.

          “So.” Oliver chuckled.

          “You’re ugly now.”

          “Lies told while uninformed.” He mumbled.

          “Hush!” I said slapping his arm.

          “What?” Hush asked.

          “Boy!”

          “Okay, this is cute and all, but back to what you want to know.”

          “Yes!” I exclaimed eagerly.

          “Wait.” She said. I tapped my foot letting out a loud sigh. “You have to do us a favor though.” Seriously?

          “Name it.”

          “You have to come with us to the strip for Halloween.”

          “Ugh!” I huffed. “That’s a favor for Drake.”

          “Yes and no.” She replied.

          “You know how he don’t like us gettin’ him shit.” Hush said.

          “So we can indirectly give him something, by giving him you.” She continued. Oliver smirked and I rolled my eyes. “Not like that you perv.” Courtne scolded, while slapping him in his chest.

          “I’m out before I get hit, cuz I don’t slap back, I punch.”  Hush said walking away. Oliver just shook his head and followed him.

          “Fool.” I yelled. Courtne and I chuckled. “Soooo..?”

          “So you’re going?”

          “Sure. But my brothers and nieces are flying in.” She nodded her head cuz she already knew that. “And I’m bringing my camp.”

          “The more, the better.” She said. I glared at her.

          “Alright. I’ll go.” I caved and she smiled. “Drake’s truly blessed to have you.”

          “He is, isn’t he?”

          “What’s the plan?!” I asked, and then the music stop and the lights went out. I latched onto her arm with the quickness. I could feel her shaking in hysterics.

          “This isn’t just a release party.” She giggled.

          “What?” I asked. Then the entrance door opened, shining the only real source of light.

          “What the fu..?” Drake exclaimed, walking into darkness.

          “SURPRISE!!!!!!!!!” Every one yelled as the lights came back on. Now the owl was just the back drop to the Happy Birthday Drizzy! that flashed across the screen. Wayne and pretty much all of YMCMB and OVO gathered around him, slapping him up and giving him hugs. I looked around to see the V.I.P. deserted.

          “Awe man! Y’all got me! Wooow! This is..” He was speechless and the gleam of his eyes told it all. He flashed his brilliant smile and I was almost as caught up as he was. To know that a man you hold so highly would go out of his way to show this much love…

          “This nigga bet not cry.” The DJ said into the mic. Shit, I was about to. A lot of the guys laughed while the girls either scolded them or awed. Everybody was snapping pics and Derick G was sitting on the bottom of the stairs capturing it all.

          “Like how yo bitch ass cried after you walked in on me givin’ yo moms the Drizzy Three Stroke?” Drake shot back. I shook my head as everyone busted out in hysterics. So that’s where I knew him from. The Open Mic club.

          “Yeah, yeah. I’ma let you slide cuz this yo moment and all that.”

          “Naw, Man. Give it yo best shot.” He urged.

          “I’m good. Really.” He began. “I’m still enjoyin’ the fact that you came alone and yo girl up there up in V.I.P hugged up with yo assistant.” He laughed, and EVERYBODY, I mean EVERYBODY turned to look up at me and Courtne. When I say I wanted to pull some Kill Bill shit and swing down to kick him in the throat, I was beyond serious. I nodded my head while almost everyone lost their minds. I kept a straight face as I raised my hand and to my surprise they quieted down.

          “First of all, stay down there with yo corny ass, bummy self.” I began. People were ooh-ing and I hadn’t even started. “We up here discusin’ how we gone make my baby Drake’s birthday unforgettable.” I said, putting emphasis on that last word, before wiggling my brow at Drake. His face turned redder than soo woo. I held in my laugh, and nudged Courtne in the side when I felt a slight shake.

          “Ha! You just tryna cover for him.” He told me. I turned to Courtne.

          “Am I lyin’?” I asked. She shook her head no and the ooh’s began again, this time with a few woot woots and oops. I guess we both had our deal in mind, cuz neither of us were convincible liars. “See. Now go sit down with yo bored ass cousin, who you CLAIM to be yo date and let Future, a REAL DJ, show you how it’s done.”

          “DAAAAYMN!” I heard Streets shout.  Niggas was rollin’ on the floor as Future walked up to the booth with his hands and shoulders up. I smirked as he the DJ surrendered and went to his seat.

          “The Queen has spoken.” Future declared, before playing Headlines. I left Courtne at the banister and did my bad bitch strut back to the couch.

8

          I had just finished devouring some Sesame Chicken, Lo Mein and a egg roll from the Chinese buffet. There was no doubt in my mind that I had contact. At one point of time I could’ve sworn they brought out a smoke machine. But maybe that was a hallucination. Nowadays, everything’s laced. I swear niggas feel like they gotta pass out or go numb before the party’s over. I got up and put my trash on an empty table since I didn’t see a trash can. Plus, the plates and silverware weren’t disposable. I went back to my seat and tryed to stay low key when I noticed Drake attempting to make his way over to me. He would start out in my direction, but get stopped by someone, congratulating him or personally wishing him a happy birthday. The first person was Courtne, who he politely made small talk with. They laughed about whatever, ‘til she pushed him towards me. He stumbled and you know my heart stayed in my stomach ‘til I was sure he was balanced. His height is just another feature of him that’s an exception to stereotypes. I smiled at his barely average coordination. He chatted with another person, but by the third, who was Cortez, I could tell he was irritated. I giggled when I saw his posture changed from cocky to slouch. He glanced at me and flashed a smile. Tez turned around to see who he was smiling at but didn’t notice me at first. I picked up my glass that I’d gotten refilled and had barely touched since doing so and took a sip. It was a pathetic attempt to hide my smile, which failed miserably because I could feel eyes on me. I took my time before bringing my glass down and looking back up. When my eyes met them, they both had goofy grins on their faces. I rolled my eyes and took another sip. Tez told Drake something before patting him on the shoulder and walking away. Drake shook his head and proceeded to make the small distance. He was so focused on me he didn’t even notice some random girl had cut into his path. My eyes widened as he tried to halt, but was too late.

          “Awe man, Excuse me, I didn’t see you. I should’ve been paying attention.” He said, while quickly reaching over to a bar table and grabbing an unnecessary amount of napkins. He had bumped into her causing a bit of her drink to spill down her hand.

“It’s…” She began.

“Here you go.” He said, handing them to her.

          “Thanks.” She giggled. “I’m fine. It was only a little.” She assured him. He looked at me with puppy eyes, and I twisted my lips so that my right dimple would show. “I know you want to get back to celebrating, but I just wanted to personally say Happy Birthday, and from what I’ve heard so far, your new album’s amazing.”

          “I appreciate it.” He said, flashing a dull smile. There was an awkward silence between the two, causing me to grin. It’s one of those ‘funny looking from the outside in’ things. She looked down and began fidgeting with her clutch. Drake gave her a quick once over and quickly focused back in on her face before she could catch him. Boys.

          “Well…” He began.

          “Sooo. I see you like red velvet.” She blurted out.

          “Haha. You’re correct.” He said, before glancing my way. He had a hint of remorse on his face. Oop. I guess he honestly thought I cared. I raised a brow.

          “Wayne’s a good guy huh?” She asked. Drake’s eyelids slumped as he nodded his head once. I could tell that he was beyond irritated now. I’ve witness moments like this a few times before. A groupie with motives approaches him pretending to be interested, but really, she’s only trying to get closer to Wayne. It’s truly pathetic. And since I can’t stand to see Drizzy down, I thought I’d cheer him up.

I scooted over a bit on the couch so that he could see me better. I glared at him so he‘d feel me and look my way. Once he looked up I bucked my eyes and stuck my tongue out.  He grinned at me even though he seemed confused, before looking back to ol’ girl.

“Does he usually do stuff like this for Young Money?” She asked? Drake’s face showed even more confusion. She wasn’t making this easy. If I was him I would’ve been removed myself from the situation after I thanked her for the birthday wish and complement on the album.

“Umm, I didn’t catch your name.” He told her. I put my drink down and stood up, placing my hands on my hips.

“It’s Chante.” She informed. As soon as she started to bring her arm up for a hand shake I began waving my arms wildly in the air while mouthing ‘no’. His smiled engulfed his face as he shook his head and shook her hand. I flopped back down in my seat.

“Well it was nice to meet you Chante, but I have to get back to the party.” He told her. She nodded in understanding.

“Of course.” She responded. “Let me just give you my number so maybe we can finish this conversation at a later time.” I tried to hold in my laugh but a few grunts escaped. Drake bit his lip to prevent his as he reached in his pocket for his phone.

“Cool.” He told her, before unlocking it and handing it over. I smacked my leg. Maybe a little too hard cuz the noise made them both look in my direction. When she looked at me I forced a closed mouth smile, before leaning over to get my drink. She grinned, then turned back to Drake. I rolled my eyes and he chuckled.

“What’s so funny?” She asked, while dialing her number in his phone.

          “Just thinking about the fun I had making this track.” He lied. And I know this because it was the one with most of YM on it. After we finally got it done he told me he understood why Wayne didn’t make us work together on the majority of our first compilation.

          “I could imagine.” She said, handing him his phone back. He put it back in his pocket, leaving his hand in there with it. They stood there awkwardly for about 10 seconds. He looked at me, eyes pleading for help. I huffed.

          “BOY.” I said loudly. “Bring ya ass.”

          “Excuse me.” He said, before walking around her and finally closing our distance. She turned and glared at me, face full of attitude. I just flashed her a fake smile.   

          “Thank you.” He sighed, sitting down next to me.

          “Ummmhmm.” I mumbled, while watching ol’ girl walk back towards the front. “You owe me.”

          “What did you have in mind?” He asked, trying to sound all seductive and shit. I turned to face him leaving one leg hanging.

          “You know what I want.” I told him, doing the mug he loved so much. He rubbed his sweaty palms on his pants.

          “And you know what I want.” He said, before giving me an obvious once over. He know damn well I was talkin' 'bout that beat. Niggas.

          “Goodbye, Drake.” I said, getting up to leave. He grabbed my hand, but didn’t pull me back. I turned back around to see the sorrow in his eyes. “That shit don’t phase me.”

          “And that looked don’t phase me.” He responded sarcastically while standing up. He handed me the purse I almost left.

“Just accept that you’re wrong.” I told him. “No need to lie.”

“I was wrong.” He admitted.

“Yes, you were.” I agreed. He shook his head before leaning over to my ear. I inhaled, taking in his heavenly scent.

“Somebody could use their own advice too.” He whispered.

“Somebody could use some gum.” I lied, before removing my hand from his and going in my purse for a stick. He stood straight up with a face full of embarrassment. I tried to keep a straight face as I handed it to him. He took it, removed the wrapper, and began to chew.

“Thanks.”

“Yep.” I said before turning and walking away.

8

“I’ll be back y’all, I have to use the little ladies room.” I lied. I can’t believe it took me 10 fuckin’ minutes just to get to the door.

“Lies told while trying to leave the party early.” Oliver said.

I flicked him off before leaving out the door.

“Those long ass fingers.” 40 laughed.

After I was done touching up my lips, I sat on the counter to think. That dream I had last night was… I smiled to myself. If only it was real. Shit, I need to fix this soon so it can be. I sighed as I heard the door open.

“You okay?”

“Yes Nell.”

“Ummmhmm.” She responded. I rolled my eyes. “Indecision is the graveyard of good intentions.”

“Aren’t gypsies sposed to be unconventional?” I shot back, hopping down and fixing my vest. I wasn’t in the mood.

“Let me guess, you ain’t in the mood?” She said, digging in her bag.

“Exactcly.” I said, heading for the door.

“I’m no bodies bitch.” She said, looking into the mirror.

“I know, Nelly.” I opened the door. “Make sure he knows that.”

Walking back into the party I noticed the room had empty out about a third of what it was when I left. I wish Wayne would get tired so we could go. And the Lord must’ve heard me cuz that's when Wayne yelled…

“Drizzy. Nic.” I walked over to him slowly, my feet were killing me. Drake looked at me.

“You alright, Nicki?” I nodded yes. “Shoes?” I nodded some more.

“I got some bidness to take care of so I’ma need you to take Nic home for me.” He said, handing him his keys. I sighed. Seemed like everybody was tryna play matchmaker tonight, but then it hit me. Wayne didn’t drive. We were chauffeured.

“Where you park?” Drake asked naively.

“Around back.” Wayne replied before walking towards the stage. “We can cut through here.”

Wayne hopped up on stage, while me, Drake and some of the guys walked up the few stairs. Wayne sprinted through the curtains. We just laughed and took our time. Due to our loves and occupations, we knew the layout of stages all too well. When we got up to the curtain, Drake found a break and held it open for me to enter first. I gasped. And after he’d walked through, he froze.

“You didn’t!” I exclaimed.

“What?” Wayne asked, tryna sound innocent.

“Daaamn!” Gudda said. I laughed at him sounding like Streets.

“Yooo.” Millz said. “Y’all gotta come see this shit.”

“Naw. Hit the curtains.” Wayne told someone out of view.

The curtains slowly crept open and revealed the shiny Golden Chevelle to what was left of the party. Everyone clapped, while Drake just stood there, still frozen.

“Go ahead my nigga. You can cry.” Jas told him. We laughed.

“That’s a ’70?” Shanell asked. I hadn't noticed she’d came back in.

“Yep.” Wayne answered, before walking over to Drake. “You’re welcome.” He said patting him on his back.

“Is he still breathin’?” Chuckee yawned, causing me and a few others to do the same.

“Well I’m pooped.” I said, walking to the passenger side.

“Poop.” Twist laughed. He was sleepy.

“Shut up.” I told him. “One of y’all unlock this door.”

40, who was standing on the side of Drake, reached down to his hand that held the keys and pressed the button.

“Thanks.” I told him, before getting in and putting my seat belt on. Drake put his hands on his head.

“Man, I can’t accept this.” He finally spoke up.

“Nigga, do you know what I had to do to get this bitch like this?” Wayne asked. “You betta leave fo I keep it fo myself.”

Drake slapped up Wayne. They hugged and he chucked deuces to everyone else. Getting in the car, he admired the interior.

“He left it.” He mumbled, referring to the old school feel. Sticking the key into the ignition, he started it up. His face lit up as he listened to it purr. He looked so childlike.

“Seat belt.” I told him. He nodded and put it on, before turning on the radio. It was on a country station. I smiled as he quickly changed it, flicking through, trying to find something more fitting. Short walked up to his window and Drake stopped to rolled it down.

“Here.” He said, holding his iPod out.

“Thanks, Man, but..” He began.

“In dat lil trap.” He said, before handing it to him and stepping back.

          Drake opened the little door and saw the hook up. He plugged it in and played something chopped & screwed. The windows trembled a little. He smirked, leaning his seat further back and adjusting the mirrors. I rolled my eyes.

          “If you gone sit in the back I think I should drive.”

          He laughed, sat up, then turned around. We slowly backed out of the dock door and down the ramp into the street. I waved bye to everyone before we pulled off.

8

“Goodnight.” I told Drake, while opening my door.

“You’re sure you don’t want me to walk you up?” He asked. I leaned over and kissed him on his cheek before climbing out. He nodded his head in understanding. “Thanks.”

“For?” I asked.

“Coming.” PAUZ. “Your presence was the highlight of my night.” I smiled, before shutting the door on his lying ass. He know that thing he sittin’ in really was. I thought, walking into my building.

          Once I got settled, I showered and dressed in some white boy shorts and a white tee. Wayne wasn’t here because he had to make sure Shanell got to where ever she was staying at ‘safely’, at least that’s what he told me after I asked what he meant by ’bidness’. Sure, he’d get her there, then stay, fuck her brains out, and go back to Miami in the morning. He was such a dog. But he’s also so sweet. Him escorting me and making Drake’s year... that’s the side of Wayne people barely get to see. But when you’re in this game you can’t look out for everybody. Niggas will start mistaking your kindness for weakness.

I was laying down when I heard Wayne come in. I got under the covers by the time he made it back to my room.

          “How was it Dread?” I asked him as he just invited himself in.

          “How was what?” He asked innocently.

          “Oh, okay.”

          “Naw, I really don’t know what you talkin’ ‘bout.” He said, walking to my massage chair and sitting down. I had gotten me another one specifically for my room so they could fuck up the one in the main room all they wanted.

          “How was Shanell?”

          “Oh, I got her back to her room safely. Why?”

          “I mean… HOW was she?” I asked, raising my brow.

          “Woooww.” He exclaimed, before looking down to his phone that had just vibrated. “You care?” He asked, still focused on his phone. I was shocked. What exactly wouldn’t I care about?

          “Why wouldn’t I?” I asked him.

          “Cuz. You don’t like Nell.” Wayne said matter of factly.

          “What?!”

          “You don’t be all buddy, buddy with her like you do witcho otha bitches.” I was in utter shock. I’d never noticed it was that obvious.

          “First of all… watch ya mouth.” I warned him while pointing in his direction. “And I’ll make it up to her.”

          “How?”

“By lettin’ her eat my box.” I joked in a cutesy voice.

          “Stop playin’, Nic.”

          “What? You don’t think I could take her from you?”

          “You a trip.”

          “I mean, I’m sayin’ Wayne, you know my name.” I said in a cocky chuckle. Wayne just shook his head.

          “Who don’t?” He asked simply. I blushed.

“So y’all ’ill be back out here for the award show right?” I asked, trying to change the subject. He nodded his head yes. “And you’re staying ‘til my perfume drops two days later?”

          “When did I agree to that?” He asked.

          “Just now.” I told him. He chuckled.

          “Whatever you say, Nic.” He said before reclining the chair and setting it to low full body.

          “Of course, but…”

          “Goodnight.” He said, turning to face away from me.

“Uh…”

“Shhh.”

“Boy…”

“You want me to stay or not?” He mumbled. I didn’t know if he was referring to my room or for the revealing of my fragrance. I glared at him. I was going to miss this. How we could be so close and mutual without too much awkwardness.

          “Goodnight.” I said back, getting farther underneath my covers. Making sure I wasn’t showing skin, I leaned over to turn of the lamp.  In the process, I realized my nipples were hard. Embarrassing. I turned my Night Time playlist on low and drifted off to sleep.