SAVAGE

19

"Candace sent over the files." Malcolm spoke into the phone as he held a cup of warm coffee. His large hand was protected by the sleeve, cloaked around it. He casually sipped on his hot coffee as he made his way out of the coffeehouse.

"I'm looking at them right now as we speak." Raymond replied while rubbing his clean-shaven face. He sat in his living room with his MacBook propped in front of him.

Apparently, Malcolm needed a lawyer. A badass one at that. Some kid was in jail for a murder he didn't commit. Blah, blah, blah. Raymond was used to these kinds of cases. He dealt with them—a lot and he'd won every single case. This one wouldn't be any different.

"I'll get right on it."

"Thanks, man." Malcolm sighed while dropping down in the seat of his Jaguar. He knew that Raymond wouldn't have a problem taking the case. "Contact the suspect's sister. Her information is included, Essence Williams."

After he ended the call with his grandmother's motormouth boyfriend, he used his thumb to guide him to a specific contact. Bingo! Once he found it, he tapped on the call icon and brought the phone up to his ear.

"You have reached the voicemail box of—"

Malcolm frowned while pulling the phone from his ear. Instead of overreacting. He decided to call the number again, hoping he would get through.

Ringggg, ringggg, ringggg.

"You have reached—"

He tossed his phone in the cup holder. Malcolm had insane speculations going through his mind as he pressed on his gas pedal. Instead of staying focused on his mission, he was overthinking about Jersey and the many, possible reasons why she didn't answer her phone, twice.

"s**t, I'm tripping." He said to himself while coming to a halt. He sat there at the red light, trying to get himself together. He didn't need to be overthinking s**t at all. Jersey didn't owe him s**t. They weren't together, so he couldn't tell her when and when not to answer her phone.

His phone started ringing, which caught his attention. Malcolm reached over to grab it and immediately became disinterested in who was calling.

Tilly.

He didn't understand why she was calling him. From what he could understand, she no longer wanted to see him anymore. They were over and she was moving on with her life.

Instead of stalling, he decided to answer it. He brought the phone up to his ear but didn't speak.

"Malcolm...." Tilly called out with a bit of nervousness. He could tell it took a lot for her to call him. Her voice was shaky, which meant she was indecisive on what she wanted to say next.

"What you calling me for?" Malcolm asked, with such a solemn tone. He didn't have time to play with Tilly. He had other s**t to do.

"I..." she trailed off, still not able to make conversation. "I thought about us and... I think I'm willing to wait."

He furrowed his eyebrows while licking his natural, brown lips. "Wait? Wait on what?"

"On you." She continued while swallowing her spit. "I know that you're still young and trying to figure everything out. I know that one day you'll want to settle down and... I'm willing to wait for you."

"I don't want you waiting on me." Malcolm objected, feeling some kind of way. She had thrown him off with her sudden outburst. "Don't wait around for me. It's going to be a long time before I even think about becoming somebody's dad or husband—"

Tilly stayed quiet on the other end. She was contemplating on her life choices. She didn't want another man. She wanted Malcolm. He was the only man who made her feel things—good things. And if she had to wait for him to get his s**t together, she was going to do just that. She loved him.

"I don't care. I'll wait." She interjected while nodding her head, trying to make herself believe that. "I won't bother you about marriage and kids again...I just want you for right now."

He silently scoffed to himself as he continued to drive to his destination. Tilly was full of it...and desperate.

_____________________________

"You're late."

"I know." Jersey exhaled while clasping her bag. She held a look of exhaustion on her face as she mooched towards the desk, setting her bag on top. "My alarm didn't go off..."

Alesha shook her head as she examined Jersey who wore a slight frown as she grabbed her ID from her bag. Jersey was dressed in casual clothing, she didn't manage to put any effort into her outfits, unlike Alesha who made it her mission to show up in fashion.

"I'm serious, Alesha. My phone broke. I dropped it in the shower last night, trying to text." Jersey informed her while blowing out some air. "I thought I saved it since I put it in some rice overnight—it did turn on, but I guess the water won."

"That's too bad." Alesha commented as she leaned over, hand tucked underneath her chin. "Who were you texting? Malcolm."

Jersey tried to hold her smirk, but she couldn't resist the tugging at her lips. Just the mention of his name had her blushing.

She rolled her eyes upward and said, "It wasn't him. It was somebody else."

"Who?" Alesha questioned her nosily as she pushed herself further over the desk. "We're friends now, I want the details."

"Nobody important." She replied with a shrug. Jersey really was telling the truth.

"Well, at least tell me about the party."

"Party?" Jersey whispered to herself, but Alesha had heard her clearly.

"The party—the party your friends invited me to."

Instantly, Jersey shook her head no. She was definitely against Alesha going to the party. She was religious and didn't need to involve herself with such godless activities.

"You cannot go to the that."

"Why not?" Alesha asked with a smile on her face. "I've never been invited to a party before—well I've been to parties, but never a casual, house party."

"It's not a good idea, Alesha. There's going to be drinking, smoking, a lot of profanity, and I know that goes against your religion."

Alesha waved her hand and said, "I'll be fine."

Jersey just sighed while looking at the innocent woman before her. She didn't understand why Alesha was so hyped about the party. What was she trying to do? Was she trying to gain some thrill in her life or what?

"I warned you."

"Oh, we'll have fun." Alesha smirked.

Instead of wasting more time, Jersey decided to clock in and get straight to work. While putting away previously borrowed books, she noticed that the library was partially filled and very quiet—the usual.

Her eyes fell upon a girl who was sitting at the table, using a computer. She looked well focused as her chin rested on top of her hand. Her locks were wrapped in a neat ponytail.

Ashanti. Rudy's baby mama.

Jersey wanted to go over and speak, but she decided not to. Bothering the young girl would only make matters worse. She was just going to mind her business and get to work.

_____________________________

"Are you even listening to me?"

Malcolm didn't bother to answer his sister. He was too busy roughhousing with Ivy. They stood in the living room; he held a thick rope while watching Ivy tug at it with her teeth. She growled a little, showing off the slight aggressiveness in her.

"Get it girl, come on! Get it!" He playfully provoked her. Ivy's tail wagged in excitement.

"Malcolm!" June shouted, trying to get her brother's attention. She gave him a deadpan expression as she blinked, showing off those wispy lashes that almost covered her whole eye. She didn't care, June was going to show off her faux, mink lashes.

She ran her manicured nails through her weave that was freshly installed. June sported a short and curly wig. Because of the great expense, she had an HD, transparent closure and some baby hair that was laid to perfection.

She sported a casual outfit—a graphic shirt with some joggers that matched her Nike Air Max.

"You really want to put off school altogether, now?"

June parted her glossed lips to speak, but nothing could come out. She hated whenever her brother didn't agree with her decisions. He stood there; inches taller than her. His honey-colored eyes pierced through her like a bullet.

"I don't...have the motivation to go." She managed to speak as she continued to finger through her hair. "I mean...I have a lot of s**t to deal with and I'm making club appearances now."

Malcolm scoffed while dropping the rope. He allowed Ivy to fully take control and gnaw on it. Instead of staying in the living room, he decided to make his way into his moderate-size kitchen.

Morgan had no parts on decorating his apartment. He managed to do all the interior decorating himself. Malcolm didn't go overboard, simply because he was living in an apartment that he didn't own. He, however, made sure his apartment looked like an actual, livable home.

The penthouse automatically came equipped with brand new appliances, countertops, and tile flooring. All Malcolm had to do was add his little touch. He didn't do too much, but he made his home feel manly. Malcolm bought all kinds of cool gadgets for his kitchen and funny gimmicks that his family would point out and comment on.

"You should understand." June stated, leaning on the counter. She watched her brother wash his hands thoroughly with soap and warm water.

"But I don't." He replied dryly. "I went to school and I finished."

June wrinkled her nose while c*****g her head to the side. "You went to a community college."

Malcolm was taken aback by his sister's comment. There was nothing wrong with going to a community college. Community college offered affordable tuition fees and a chance for students to build up their grade point average and transfer to a four-year college.

"And what's so bad about that?"

"Community college is basically easy compared to a university. I mean—we work harder and let's not forget that I'm dealing with clinical rotations. I can't do all of that and try to handle my other career on the side."

"You sound so f*****g stupid..." Malcolm cursed while frowning. He was growing upset because of his sister's dumb mindset. She didn't want to finish her last year of school at all. Altogether he spent nearly sixty thousand dollars on her tuition.

"I'm going to London soon..." She called out, informing him. "I'll be gone for two weeks. I have a few appearances over there to make."

Malcolm didn't speak for a while; he was too busy trying to make himself a smoothie.

Instead of listening to June talk, he pressed a button that made a hunk of noise bellow from the blender.

June didn't say anything, she just narrowed her eyes at her brother. She felt like he was being mad petty about her decision.

When he stopped the blender, he emptied the pink mixture into his smoothie tumbler.

Malcolm placed his eyes on his sister and said, "Just make sure the s**t is legit. You don't need to just hop up and leave. You don't know nothing about the London."

"It's definitely legit, Max." She replied while opening his fridge.

Malcolm didn't bother to respond, he just made his way into the living room and flopped down on his couch. Immediately, Ivy walked over towards him. He held his tumbler in his hand, sipping down the creamy goodness.

The sound of a buzzing phone caught his attention. An iPhone laid on the coffee table, vibrating. Thinking it was his, he picked it up and looked at the screen.

Instantly, his eyebrows furrowed in confusion. He read the message that appeared on his sister's phone over and over. Trying his best to gather his thoughts.

"June!" He shouted, tossing her phone on the coffee table. "Come here."

"Hold on." She shouted back while ambling into the living room with a half-peeled orange in her hand. She looked at her brother who sat there with a mean expression on his face. His eyes were narrowed and jawbone flawlessly flexing out of anger.

"Why is Micah texting your phone?"

He noticed the look on her face. It wasn't as subtle as before. No, June wore a surprised expression as she clenched the fruit in her hand. She looked over at her brother and instantly frowned.

"What are you talking about?"

"What am I talking about?" He reiterated while leaning over, placing his elbows on his knees.

"He texted you...asking about your whereabouts. The f**k is going on between you two?"

"Nothing!" She objected before she could think. June immediately grew offended as she snatched her phone from the coffee table. "Why are you going through my phone anyway?"

"I didn't." He disagreed. "I thought it was mine. I keep my s**t on vibrate too."

June rolled her eyes as she quickly used her thumbs to send a response.

"I don't like that s**t, at all. So, whatever you two have going on, end it."

"What! We're just friends." June clarified with a light frown on her caramel face.

"I don't want you dating or being friends with Micah. He works for me. That s**t is an automatic no." He continued his rant with a flared nose. "How long y'all been talking to each other?"

"Malcolm I’m grow—"

"Don't do throw that I'm grown bullshit at me, I asked how long?"

June c****d her head to the side, trying to challenge her brother. Unfortunately, she didn't win—which was common. Instead of stalling, she decided to speak. "For almost three months."

He scoffed while rubbing his large hands together. "Three months?"

"Y-yeah."

Malcolm stood up and swiped his phones. He called for Ivy and started to leave out. Before crossing over the threshold, he turned around to look at his sister.

"End it." Was all he mustered up to say as he left.

June stood there, still surprised. She wasn't expecting for her brother to find out about Micah this way. Also, she didn't expect for him to take the situation so calmly. Yes, he looked upset, but he didn't go overboard.

_____________________________

After a long day, Jersey decided to take herself a nice bath and relax with some wine that Vena had left over from a couple of days ago. She found herself curling up on the couch while flipping through the channels on Hulu's live television.

Instead of being picky, she settled for Family Guy while drowning herself in her own thoughts. For the first time, she felt good about everything. It had been a while since she had a hallucination and she was thankful for that.

The medication was finally working, which had her scared. So scared that she contemplated on setting up another appointment with her doctor.

The sleepless nights were still there, but she didn't have any more visions of seeing her dead relatives. Jersey felt like she could finally breathe a breath of fresh air.

She tighten her grip around her glass as she changed the channel again. This time she settled for another show.

Knock, knock, knock

The sound of knocking snatched her attention. She looked over at the door and sucked her teeth as she got up to answer it. Kelli was nowhere to be found, so she had no choice.

"Who is it?"

"Malcolm."

Jersey didn't frown at all. In fact, she remained calm as she used her manicured fingers to unlock the door.

When she pulled it open, he was revealed. Standing there looking handsome as ever. His six-five frame swallowed her five-six height.

She looked up at him and noticed the disoriented expression written on his face. Jersey wanted to ask him what was wrong, but she decided not to meddle.

Instead, she just backed up and allowed him to walk in. When she locked the door behind him, she turned around and noticed that he was busy typing away on his Blackberry. His business phone.

"I called you earlier—twice..." He stated coolly while still focusing on the phone before him. 
Jersey didn't reply back. She didn't know how to tell him that her phone was now unworkable.

"You didn't answer though." He continued while placing his attention on her. "I texted you before I came over too."

"My um..." she trailed off. "My phone broke last night. It accidentally fell in the tub. I was trying to text."

Malcolm held a small smirk on his face as he shook his head. She was surprised to see that reaction from him. Something in her told her that he would get angry.

"You shouldn't be on your phone while trying to take a bath. s**t doesn't work that way."

"I know." Jersey replied quickly as she took a seat on the couch. It didn't take Malcolm long enough to follow her.

"What are you drinking?" He asked, grabbing the glass that sat on the coffee table. Malcolm looked at the yellow substance that was in the wine-shaped container.

"Some Chardonnay...Vena brought it over."

Malcolm frowned as he stared at the liquid. He even managed to shake it up a little while bringing his eyes over to her.

"What's wrong?"

"It's bad." He commented while examining the glass again. "When did she bring it over?"

"Uh..." Jersey trailed off. She remembered Vena bringing the wine over two weeks ago. She didn't think it would expire. "Two weeks ago."

Immediately Malcolm scoffed while placing the glass back on the table. He shot Jersey another look and said, "That s**t is expired. Yo, look at the color. It's pale."

"I don't understand. It doesn't smell bad."

"You can always tell if wine is bad by the taste, color, and smell." He informed her. "How does it taste?"

"It's a little sour." She replied in embarrassment. If Jersey was light, he would be able to see her flushed cheeks. She was embarrassed because she didn't know a thing about wine.

"s**t is bad." He repeated while touching his beard. "You can't drink that."

"Well, I'll just go and pour it out." Jersey stated while standing up.

"Nah, do it later. I want to talk to you."

"About what?"

"About how I'm trying to help you and yet you keep avoiding the help."

Jersey sighed while taking a seat back on the couch. She sat there with her hair dry, yet curly and frizzy. She wore a tank top with no bra and some leggings that sculpted her small frame neatly.

She c****d her head to the side while clasping her hands. Malcolm wanted to talk about her avoiding his help. She knew exactly what that meant. He wanted to know why she'd been ducking and dodging Candace.

"You're already doing enough. I don't need a driver. I'm perfectly fine with my transportation now."

He waited a few seconds to reply.  Malcolm just narrowed his eyes at her in suspense.

"I don't care that. I told Candace to drive you around because I don't want you riding the bus—especially at night."

"Like I said, I'm fine with riding the bus."

"You make s**t so difficult; you know that?" He called out while scoffing. "You didn't want Sawyer driving you around anymore, so I got Candace to take his spot. Now you're complaining about that."

"Because I'm not used to stuff like this. I don't...like handouts."

"It's not a handout." He claimed while shaking his head. "It's just something I want to do for you. I thought I already explained that to you."

She pursed her lips and continued to listen to his lecture.

"Just take advantage of the perks I'm giving you. That's all I'm saying."

"Anything else?" She responded jokingly.

Malcolm caught on to her sarcasm that made his d**k hard. He licked his brown lips and looked off, not trying to go there with Jersey tonight. He had a busy day tomorrow and couldn't afford to wake up exhausted and drained from f*****g her all night. He knew how it would end. Him knocked the f**k out in her bed after dicking her down.

"Just let Candace drive you around from now on."

"If that helps you sleep at night."

"It will." He replied coolly while standing up.

"You're leaving? I thought...you were going to stay."

"I have a long day tomorrow." Malcolm stated. "I'm meeting with some people about my upcoming project."

"Upcoming project?" Jersey probed nosily.

"Yeah...I'm hosting an event for people in need. You know like single moms, the homeless, and kids. I do it every three months."

"Giving Back." Jersey stated while nodding her head. "That's your project?"

Malcolm just nodded his head. He had been doing the project for two years now. Giving back to his community was something he loved doing. He always managed to help the needy, give prizes away to children, and provide education for those who needed it.

"I think that's great." Jersey marveled with a smile on her face. She'd remembered the project giving away one thousand bikes to kids the earlier part of the year. "If you need me to help in any kind of way, just let me know. I'll do it."

Malcolm had to think about that. He didn't know if he could stay focus with her around him. His thoughts were always f****d up whenever she was near.

"I'll think about it. Just spread the word for right now."

_____________________________

"All of this is going to be exciting." Alesha expressed as she looked outside the window. They had just pulled up at the party. Vena's people made it a ritual to throw parties every now and then.

It was something Jersey was used to, but she barely attended. As stated before, Vena's people were party animals. They didn't know how to end a party. Most of the time, the police had to shut it down for them.

She looked over at Alesha who was amazed by everything. She was religious—a Muslim of course. Her people didn't allow her to go to house parties that included alcohol and drugs.

"Are you sure this is okay for you? I don't want your people yelling at me for bringing you here."

"It's fine."

Jersey wasn't too sure about that. On her way to pick Alesha up, she met her parents. They weren't exactly as warming as she expected them to be. In fact, they didn't welcome her into their home at all. Alesha's parents kept their greeting brief and made sure to study her with a slight frown on their faces.

She figured they didn't care for her because she didn't share the same religion as their daughter. Instead of dwelling on it, she decided to ignore their deadpan stares.

Sean was around and made sure to keep her company. He kept a mild conversation while continuously offering her food and drinks. Jersey was annoyed, but she could tell that he meant good.

Candace unlocked the doors and allowed the girls to get out the truck. They made their way to the building where Vena and her people lived.

Jersey knocked on the door and immediately got a response from Vena's little brother, Cameron. He was an ordinary thirteen-year-old who was chubby and tall for his age. The young boy wore glasses that looked too big for his face and his black hair was short, thick, and curly.

"Hey, Cam." Jersey greeted him with a half grin on her face. Her dimples pushed into each side of her face, adding on to her beauty.

"Hey." He replied bashfully while backing up, allowing the women to walk in. The house was filled with all kinds of partygoers, Jersey expected that and immediately tensed up a little. She blew out some air and looked over at Alesha who seemed comfortable as she surveyed the place.

"This is Alesha, my friend."

"Nice to meet you, Cameron." Alesha greeted warmly.

Cameron held a smirk on his face as he nodded shyly. Instead of staying around, he decided to leave.

"Check this party out!" Alesha shouted over the music. "People are everywhere! I see a lot of fine, Puerto Rican men. God!"

"Well, just stay beside me, if you're nervous." Jersey stated while looking around for the fifth time.

"You seem more nervous than me, Jersey. I'll be fine and you should too—considering this is your friend's house."

Before Jersey could reply, a loud voice snatched their attention. Vena walked over with two cups in each of her hands. Her wide mouth opened as she greeted them. She was dressed casually, after all it was just a house party. Vena wore a vintage tee, black jeans, and some all-white vans that allowed her to show off the gold anklet she wore. Her long hair was pulled into a bun and she wore light make on her caramel skin.

"My b***h came through!" She sang while holding up the cups, doing a little dance with her pink tongue sticking out. She looked over at Alesha who seemed amazed by Vena's mannerisms. Jersey, however, wasn't impressed. She was used to Vena being overdramatic. In fact, she could tell that her friend was slightly intoxicated by the liquor already.

It didn't take Kelli long to appear in the crowd. She stood beside Vena, doing the same thing she had done when she made her way over to them. Her eyes were low, which only meant that she, too, was intoxicated. However, she had no cup or blunt in her hand.

"And you came as well." Vena continued while throwing a smile at Alesha. "Welcome, welcome, welcome ladies! Come on in and enjoy the party. Here, I made you two some drinks."

Vena managed to push each cup into their hands. Jersey held a hardened stare as she looked at the blue liquid that was in the cup. She didn't like other people fixing her drinks—her friends included. She didn't trust anybody with her alcohol, and she didn't like the move Vena had made—Serving Alesha alcohol was an automatic no-no.

"No thank you." Jersey replied while grabbing Alesha's cup. "But we'll fix our own...Alesha doesn't drink anyway."

Alesha didn't reply, she just furrowed her eyebrows at Jersey.

Vena's head jerked as she stared at her friend with a wrinkled nose.

"Check her out." Kelli remarked with a grin on her face.

"Oh, so now you don't trust me making your drinks?" Vena asked.

"I never did, and you know that." Jersey remarked with a matching tone.

"Tsk..." Kelli interjected while diverting her eyes over to Alesha. "Enjoy the party. Don't let her ruin it for you."

Jersey rolled her eyes while leading the way. The girls had to push past people in order to get to the kitchen where the alcohol was being watched by Vena's abuela. She sat in the chair with her legs crossed. Leona is what they called her. She was a short lady who weighed no more than one hundred and ten pounds.  Leona was in her mid-sixties, still trying to get around on her own. She and the rest of her family owned a restaurant in the middle of Brooklyn. They received good business, which is why they were able to afford a decent lifestyle.

"Jersey. You come to the party, huh?" Leona greeted in thick accent. She was originally from Puerto Rico and moved to the states when she was only fourteen and pregnant. Leona didn't know English when she first arrived, but after getting her education in New York, she was able to learn.

"Yes. How are you? I see you're on liquor duty." Jersey replied while leaning over to hug the older woman.

"Yes. Tammi has me on duty. I have to sit here all night just to make sure these people don't mess with anything." She looked over at Alesha and raised her eyebrows at the girl. Jersey caught on and made it her mission to introduce the two.

"Leona, this is Alesha, my friend. Alesha, this is Vena's abuelita."

"Hi, nice to meet you."

"Nice to meet you." Leona dryly stated while observing the girl. 

"We have sangria over here...I made some without alcohol." Leona offered as she stood up to fix the drinks. Jersey was going to allow her to do so since she would be watching her pour the liquid into the cup.

"Thank you, Leona." Jersey thanked her as she gave them the beverage of their choice.

Eventually, they mingled around, and Jersey even managed to introduce Alesha to some of the people she knew at the party. Tammi—Vena's mom was happy to see her, right along with her baby sister and dad.

Everything was decent and yet rowdy. Vena's parents made sure there was a lot of food and liquor around for everybody. Vena's older brother called himself DJing.

Jersey rubbed her head, in need of her bed and blanket. It was now midnight and she needed to be asleep. Her eyes drooped from exhaustion and her head was beginning to throb from all the loud noise. Vena's invitees were wilding out, she was surprised the police didn't come by to shut the party down.

_____________________________

Malcolm knocked on the door as he carried bags in his hands. He waited patiently for the door to open since he knew the tenants were home. He grew alert when he noticed the door opening. Kelli stood there with her hand on the door as she surveyed him. Malcolm noticed the look and furrowed his eyebrows.

"You brought gifts?" She asked him while looking at the bags he held in his hands.

"You gone move out of the way?"

Kelli sighed while unblocking the door. She locked it behind him and started to speak again. "I don't know what you want with my friend." Kelli stated in a low tone. "Your motives...are off and I don't want you to hurt her."

Malcolm gave her a look as he stood there. He didn't bother to reply, only listening to Kelli's rant. 

"All I'm saying is that Jersey has been through a lot. She doesn't need to be taken advantage of. She's mentally ill."

"I already know about her mental issue and we do have an understanding." Malcolm informed her as he clenched his jaw, trying his best not to blow up on Kelli. Her vexatious behavior was hard to ignore. Instead of entertaining her any longer, he went for Jersey's bedroom.

Kelli shook her head, obviously not feeling their little fling.

Jersey's door was closed, so Malcolm opened it. When he walked in, he noticed that she was still asleep. The blankets were wrapped around her body as she laid there with her mouth partially opened. For some reason, seeing her like that made him grin. He placed the bags on the foot of the bed and watched her move around from the unexpected noise.

Jersey was facing the door with her arm dangling from the bed. She stirred in her sleep, soon her eyes fluttered as she tried to wake up from the sudden movements.

Slowly, her eyes surveyed Malcolm who stood there. Her eyebrows knitted in suspense as she slowly but surely pulled her comforter tighter around her body.

When she noticed Malcolm, her eyes widened, and she pulled the blanket tighter around her body.

Why is he here? She questioned herself while sitting up with the comforter still wrapped around her.

"Do you always sleep in late?" He asked while leaning on the dresser. Jersey didn't speak at first, she was too busy drooling over his visual goodness. She could tell that he had been to the barbershop, judging from his fresh haircut and trimmed beard that was a little shorter. He sported his usual, casual drip that made women turn their heads and saturate their panties—Jersey included.

He wore a graphic shirt, cargo sweats, and a pair of white air forces that looked fresh with no creases. He wore his usual cross around his neck and his ring. Other than that, Malcolm was cool and casual.

"I went to a party..." She trailed off while yawning. "I got up earlier, took a shower and went back to sleep."

Malcolm looked over at her with such calmness. He already knew that she had went over to Vena's house for a party. Candace made sure to tell him everything that went down.

"You tryna' get out more, huh?"

"You can say that." She replied wiping the crust from her eyes. Jersey looked over at the clock and noticed that it was a little after twelve.

"I got you some shit." He informed her while pushing the bags near her. She looked at him and frowned, which caused him to speak again. "Don't even start tripping, just look in the bags."

Jersey sighed while pushing her hand inside of the solid white bag. She grabbed the box and pulled it out. Immediately, her eyes grew big as she examined the apple product in her hand. Malcolm had gone out the way to purchase her an iPhone 11 Pro. It was midnight green with three cameras—a huge upgrade from her burner.

Suddenly her eyes narrowed as she looked over at him with a subtle expression. Malcolm gave her a questionable look as he pulled the chair from the corner of the room and took a seat.

"Malcolm...stop buying me things." She pleaded while placing the box back into its original bag. "I don't need you doing that for me."

"You needed a phone."

"Okay, but I was going to buy myself one." She remarked smartly while pointing to herself. "I just haven't been able to go to Verizon. I was going to buy an affordable phone—not this expensive ass phone."

He casted her a frosty look and said, "Why you have to be so damn difficult?"

"Because this is not right." She argued back. "Just stop buying me things."

"Aright." Malcolm replied as he leaned back in the chair, legs partially open as he swung them. Instantly, Jersey grew aroused from his relaxed body form. Those arms were huge from his constant workout schedule. The tattoos didn't quite help conceal his sexiness at all. In fact, they made him even more winsome. "At least take the phone."

She huffed while c*****g her head to the side. "Okay."

Jersey was a fan of androids. She never had the opportunity to own an apple product. Yes, she made calls on one before since Kelli and Vena had one, but that was the most experience she had with them.

"Can you at least open it for me?"

"Yeah." Malcolm grabbed the bag and took the phone out.

Jersey sat there and watched as he opened the box with no problems. He used a small pocketknife that he carried on his keychain. She observed him carefully while contemplating on telling him about Rudy and his hidden secret.

"W-when is the Giving Back event?" She asked, in deep thought. Jersey was still surprised to hear that the project was created by Malcolm. She had no idea that he was the one responsible for funding afterschool and lunch programs for the eligible schools in the surrounding area.

He cleared his throat while darting his eyes over at her, "Thursday evening, why?"

"Because I still want to come out and... help."

"That's why I hired my staff, Jersey. To help me."

She sucked her teeth, not happy with his answer. "But I want to help out. I like giving back to people in need."

Malcolm held a small smirk on his face as he licked his juicy lips. His eyes were trained on Jersey as he pulled the box open, revealing the iPhone.

"What you want to do?"

Jersey wasn't expecting for him to ask her that. Her shoulder drew up as she contemplated on what she wanted to do at the Giving Back event.

"I'm not sure, really. I just want to help pass out stuff."

"I need an English tutor." He spoke up, revealing a possible job position for her.

Jersey's eyes lit up in excitement. She loved English and excelled in it during her grade school days. Tutoring students in that subject would be a piece of cake to her.

"So, if you want a shot at the position, I'll have Candace send over an application through email. You need to fill it out and have it emailed back to me with your resume."

Her mouth flew open in betrayal, she assumed he would give her the job with no catch.

"I can't believe you're making me fill out a job application."

"Hey, you don't want me to give you handouts, so you're going to do what you have to do for this position—if you really want it."

"Are you serious?"

"I take my projects seriously." Malcolm replied while eyeing her with a deadpan expression. 

"And I hope you will too—if you decide to do the application and go forward with the process."

Jersey was lost for words as she sat there with her mouth gaped. Malcolm managed to snub her as he powered on the brand-new iPhone, making sure it was activated. She was still stuck on the fact that he was being petty towards her.

Obviously, Jersey had dented his feelings earlier. She didn't want him giving her things, so he was going to take her word.

"Fine, I'll fill out the application." Jersey proclaimed as she stood up, removing the comforter from her body. Something pulled Malcolm's attention, his eyes drew right on her body. Jersey stood there in nothing but her shirt and panties. The thin fabric of the shirt couldn't hide her rigid n*****s. She wore black, seamless panties that looked perfect on her lower half.  "Are you satisfied?"

"Not quite." He responded in a low tone while pulling her over by the hips. Malcolm ran his hands over her butt and made sure to roam them down her thighs, gently putting pressure with the pads of his fingers. Jersey let out a shaky breath as she widened her legs, just so he could get to his destination easier.

He pulled her panties to the side and enjoyed the view before him. Her labia was smooth as a baby's bottom, not one hair in sight. Malcolm gently rubbed her slit, causing her to part her lips in excitement. He noticed the amount of secretion he was dealing with. Her wetness amazed him and made the organ between his leg swell.

Gently, he managed to create an electricity between her legs by thumbing with her bud. She rocked her hips when she felt him dipping one of his fingers inside of her warm and moist core. Jersey's back arched as she humped on his two fingers, getting more aroused by the great friction.

"Ohhh..." She tried to keep her moans at a decent tone since Kelli was in the house.

Jersey couldn't help but to get hornier from the thrill of what they were doing. She bucked against his fingers while biting down on her bottom lip.

Malcolm was turned on by the whole scene. It amazed him to see how aroused and erotic she could get. Her sculpted body moved fluidly while she made love faces. He could tell that she was coming on his fingers, judging from the churning of her wetness and her increased volume.

Eventually, Malcolm ripped her panties and pushed his face into her inner core. He had to taste her he couldn't just let her goodness get away this time. His thick tongue licked her velvety slit seductively as she held his head, moaning.

She whimpered as her knees buckled. Jersey could feel herself slipping away in paradise as Malcolm grabbed her waist. He wanted to be nose deep like he was the last time. He grabbed her ass, giving it a hefty squeeze as devoured her lushly.

Her second orgasm ripped through her again, making pleasured cries grow louder. She shook from the stimulation, trying her best to get away from Malcolm.

He pulled away, satisfied with her outcome. She leaned on the chair, trying to recover from the two mind blowing orgasms she just had.

Malcolm touched her brown bottom, giving it some soft smacks that eventually turned into grabs.

When she recovered, she looked over at him and licked her lips. Jersey wasted no time trying to return the favor. She went straight for his pants.

Malcolm was confused but he quickly recovered once he realized what she was about to do. He helped her by lifting to pull his pants and boxers down.

Jersey dropped to knees as her eyes stayed connected to Malcolm's phallus. It seemed to hypnotize her as she took in its beauty. Everything about it was beautiful—winsome. The head as thick and bulbous, his shaft was thick and chocolate. Veins covered some parts while leading up to the head. It was a piece of artwork.

The feeling of her hands wrapping around his warm, pulsing rod caused him to move a little. He watched Jersey closely. She used one hand that could barely fit, slowly she rotated it around his shaft, creating some stimulation.
She took him into her mouth as she tried to get reacquainted with the activity. Jersey rolled her eyes up to him and noticed that he was staring back at her with a calm expression. His eyes were slanted, drunk on pleasure. He liked it. She smiled on the inside.

Jersey saturated her mouth as she started sucking him deeper, trying her best to take all of him in. This time, she used both of her small hands as managed to jerk him off as she softly moaned. Enjoying the feeling of him being inside of her mouth.

It happened. It finally happened. Malcolm was able to turn his mental visions into reality.  Just as he imagined...she was down on her knees, sucking him as if her life depended on it. What came next made him drop his lower lip. Jersey grabbed his testis and massaged them delicately. He dropped his head back from the great sensation. Malcolm could feel himself building up as he moved his hips, he grabbed Jersey's head and pumped inside her mouth, feeling a little superior, yet concupiscent.

Simultaneously, she showed him nothing but attention as she brought her mouth to the tip. Jersey sucked on it and plopped it in her mouth continuously, which caused Malcolm to groan a little and move his hips. Jersey smiled to herself again. She had found one of his sensitive spots.

He warned her that his load was coming, but she didn't bother to move. Jersey continued to suck him as his breathing grew rough. She felt his warm secretions shooting down her throat as he erupted. Malcolm's stomach stuttered from the sensitivity he was receiving. His low huffing let Jersey know that she did a wonderful job. She looked up at him while slowing pulling him out of her mouth. 

She blinked a few times, asking herself if this was real. Jersey couldn't believe that she had the balls to pull Malcolm's pants down and suck him until he climaxed. Her eyes studied him dearly as she waited for his next move.

"Shit." Malcolm cursed under his breath as he stood up to fix his pants. He passed her up and walked straight out of the room. Jersey's heart thudded wildly as a shower of embarrassment washed over her. She assumed he was about to leave her after getting his d**k sucked.

Surprisingly, he made a route to the bathroom that was across the hallway. She silently cursed herself for even thinking negative. Jersey looked over at the bed and noticed the two bags sitting by the foot. She wandered over and rummaged through them.

Her eyes widened in suspense when she noticed a bottle of wine. It was actually a brand-new bottle of Chardonnay. A smile tugged at her lips as she examined the bottle.

"I picked it up at a vineyard." His thick voice acknowledged as he stood behind her. She jumped a little and looked over at him for a second before speaking.

"A vineyard?"

Malcolm only nodded his head as he took the bottle out of her hand.

"Like an actual vineyard?"

"An actual vineyard..." He clarified while studying the bottle. "I know the owner...he hooked me up. He has the best wine—high quality shit."

"Well, thank you." She looked over at him with a lopsided grin on her face. "I appreciate it."

_____________________________

"His name is Catcher."

"Catcher?" Malcolm repeated as he tried to remember the name. That particular name did sound familiar. He just had to think about it.

"You might know his as Wayne."

Malcolm nodded his head as he thought about it. He brought his attention over to Essence who sat in his office.

"His name is Wayne, but he goes by Catcher because of his status in the ring." Malcolm elaborated as he thumbed through his beard, standing there in deep thought.

"That's him."  Essence concurred while nodding her head. "He fights over at Newts—an underground fighting business. I heard he was related to this guy named Nieko. And there's a rumor going around that you had him killed."

Essence looked over to see Malcolm's reaction. He was calm and looked to be contemplating as he fidgeted with the cross around his neck. He placed his eyes on Essence and narrowed them. She talked too much. He didn't like that.

"Your information will come in handy, Essence." He spoke up while removing his weight from his desk. "However, I have a stipulation."

"Stipulation?"

Malcolm nodded his head as he returned to his desk. He took a seat and went inside his file cabinet that was organized by Jersey. She made sure to put his files in alphabetical order.

He went to the fourteenth letter and pulled out a duplicate piece of stapled papers. Essence watched him with curious eyes as she sat there with her brows knitted.

"We made an agreement..." He started while placing the paper on his cold desk. "If I help you get your brother a lawyer, you'll give me the details on the person I'm looking for."

Essence nodded her head while eyes peered down at the paper. She was more curious about what was typed on it.

"I was able to come through and meet my part of the bargain. Now, it's time for you to the do the same."

"I have." She claimed while blinking her eyes.

"You haven't." Malcolm objected while shaking his head. "I have certain rules that I carry out and I won't allow you to break them."

"This is a contract."

"It is in fact a nondisclosure contract that you have to sign. For my protection and for the safety of your life." He warned her while giving her a vehement look. His eyes were light and dangerous looking.

"A nondisclosure? So, I'm not supposed to talk to anybody about this?"

"You are not to tell anyone about our agreement and what we discussed. I cannot afford to have my name and business eradicated because of a reckless mouth. So, do yourself a favor and sign the papers."

"Well, o-okay." She stuttered as he pushed the stapled papers in front of her. Essence was surprised by all of this. She wasn't expecting for Malcolm to make her sign an NDA. She assumed he was just this typical, malicious thug who was out for blood. However, he was different and well prepared.

"You might want this." He offered while handing her the ballpoint. She accepted it and scanned through the contract.  Eventually, she signed her John Hancock on two blank lines.

After signing the papers, Essence prepared to leave. Malcolm abruptly stopped her before his office door could open. She looked up at him and watched the movement of his juicy, brown lips that was surrounded by his manicured beard.

"Keep me updated on your brother's case." Malcolm stated casually. Essence just nodded her head and proceeded to leave out of the office.

Malcolm palmed his face as he sighed in exhaustion. Too much was going on for him, which had him wanting to explode. He walked over to his mini fridge and looked inside for something to drink. He needed some hard liquor but all he had was beer in his fridge.

Instead of complaining, he grabbed a Budweiser and made his way to his desk. 
He sat there for a moment, trying his best to gather his thoughts. He had received some good information from Essence. He planned on getting everybody together in order to come up with a solution. Catcher had to be dealt with. He couldn't allow this problem to slip past him.

Instead of dwelling over the situation, he decided to take action. Malcolm grabbed his burner and called Ryder.

_____________________________

Kelli mooched into the kitchen wearing her nightclothes. A bonnet covered her weave while she was dressed in a tank top with some shorts that showed off the bottom of her butt.

"Good morning to you." Kelli greeted her as she looked over at Jersey who was sitting at the kitchen table with her cellphone in front of her.

Jersey looked over briefly and greeted her back. Her eyes remained focused on the Microsoft word template. She was in the middle of trying to gather her resume. As requested, Candace sent over the job application. In order to ensure she had everything correct, she went and edit her resume.

"Why aren't you at work?" Kelli questioned her as she went into the kitchen, opening the fridge to see what she could cook for breakfast.

"I'm going." Jersey replied dryly as she sat her iPhone down on the table. "I just need to do a few things before I leave."

"Well, I hope you want some breakfast."

"That'll be nice. I'm kind of hungry." Jersey replied as she touched her growling belly.

"Where you get that phone from?"

"You and these questions..." Jersey trailed off. 
"But Malcolm bought it for me. I didn't tell him to—he just did it on his own."

Kelli furrowed her eyebrows as she stood there in deep though. Her lips parted while she held the carton of eggs in her hands.

"He bought you a phone? Why?"

"I guess because the other one has water damage." Jersey shrugged her shoulders as she sat there in aggravation. She didn't know why Kelli was trying to probe.

"Oh..."

"What's going on here?"

"What?"

"Kelli...everything has been off with you ever since you stepped foot in that hospital and witnessed Ryder's pregnant girlfriend with your own two eyes."

Kelli pursed her lips as she shook her head.

"And then, you found out that Malcolm and I are seeing each other—sexually—you get all upset and say slick remarks. Like...why?"

Kelli didn't speak for a while, instead she tried to crack the eggs. Abruptly, she made her over to Jersey and leaned on the table. Her eyes narrowed in suspicion.

"It's true, I'm still trying to heal from the damage Ryder caused. I know that I shouldn't have involved my heart, but I did. It happened. Trust me, it was hard trying not to when a man wants to pretend like he's in a relationship without an actual relationship. I just...don't want the same situation to happen to you, Jay. Men love acting like they're in a relationship."

"I can handle my situation." Jersey informed her with such boldness in her voice. She was for sure that she could handle Malcolm.

"Are you sure you can handle it? Because it seems like you're headed in the same direction as me."

"Like I said, I can handle it. I already told Malcolm not to buy me things—if that's what you're referring to."

Kelli took a deep breath as she pushed away from the table. She didn't bother to speak for a while. Her mind was still in deep thought.

"I just want you to get back to your old self, because this new Kelli is too much for me. The same goes for Vena as well. I don't know what's wrong with her, but you know she's going to follow you and do everything like you."

The girls ate breakfast and continued with their daily routine. Kelli took her own car to work while Jersey was chauffeured to the library. As soon as she walked in, Alesha was on her tail.

"Remember the guy I met at the party—Robert?"

Jersey turned around and eyed Alesha who seemed extra skittish than usual. She wore a big smile, showing off her white teeth.

"Yes, I remember Robert."

Robert was the guy who Alesha found interesting enough to start a conversation with. Later, it ended with them exchanging phone numbers and wanting to get to know each other.

"He asked me out on a date—like an actual date." She whispered. Alesha had to remind herself to stay quiet since she was in a library.

"That's great. So, when is the date?"

"This Friday. He works out in Long Island and doesn't come home until the weekends."
Jersey pushed out a smile and said, "I'm happy for you."

Alesha continued to follow behind Jersey. "But it's something I want to ask you."

Jersey stopped and turned around to look at her friend. "What is it?"

"Is Robert a good guy?"

Jersey thought about Robert and couldn't help but to laugh a little. He was a cool and laidback guy who knew how to make people laugh. He carried friendly as a trait and was well-mannered. Jersey didn't see him as a problem at all. In fact, he was perfect for Alesha.

"He's a great man...actually. I mean, the only problem you'll have is his goofiness. Other than that, he's a good person for you."

Alesha smiled, showing off her four-thousand-dollar smile. "That's good to know. Hey, thanks Jersey."

Jersey furrowed her brows a little. She was taken aback by Alesha's gratitude. Instead of questioning it, she just smiled and said, "No problem."

Later on, in the day, Jersey called herself cleaning up the floors upstairs when she noticed Ashanti. She was back at the library. The heavily, pregnant girl sat in front of the computer with a notepad and a book. She furrowed her brows as she sat there in deep thought. Clearly, she was having a hard time grasping the topic in her curriculum. She bounced her pencil in between her slim fingers, trying to concentrate.

Jersey bit her bottom lip in desperation. She wanted to help the young girl out so bad. She felt like she needed to do so. Ashanti was pregnant with her cousin's baby. She had to be there for her—no matter what.

She made her way down the stairs while trying to balance the heavy broom. As soon as her feet touched the lower ground, she leaned the broom against the wall and went straight to her bag that was inside the inner office.

Jersey pulled out a stack of small business cards. On the front was a display of the Givin’ Back project. Malcolm wanted everyone's support, so he decided to create business cards with his project advertised on the front. 
She pulled one from the bulk and headed right upstairs to Ashanti. Jersey knew that the young girl was probably struggling—both financially and educationally. The Givin’ Back project could help her get her finances straight while helping her in the subject(s) she had trouble in.

The sound of Jersey sliding the card caught Ashanti's attention. She sat there and eyed the card before looking at the person who slid it on the table. Ashanti eyed Jersey for a while, but eventually they turned into slits.

"I hope you can come...it's this Thursday afternoon." Jersey announced while walking off. She didn't want Ashanti trying to humiliate her, so she left with the quickness.

______________________________________

"Thanks, Candace." Jersey thanked Malcolm's assistant for dropping her off. Candace never replied verbally. She only acknowledged Jersey's gratitude with a head nod.

Jersey made her way inside and took the elevator up to the apartment. Before she could step off good, she was met with a lot of racket. Her eyebrows knitted in suspense as she ambled out of the elevator.

Thump!

She jumped a little from the loud bump as she continued her walk towards the apartment. Jersey prayed the cacophony wasn't coming from the apartment she stayed in. Her legs grew shaky when she noticed that the door to the apartment was off the hinges.

Jersey's eyes widened as she surveyed the whole scene. The apartment was a wreck—everything was disoriented and broken.

"What happened?" Jersey questioned out loud while taking steps inside of the place. She noticed Kelli standing by the wall.

She was dressed in the clothes she wore to work. Kelli's face was bruised, and she was missing a couple of her nails due to the brawl she had. Her chest heaved up and down as tears ran down her face. Her shirt was ripped, showing off her bra.

"Are you gonna give me my phone back?" Kelli questioned the figure before her. Her voice was shaky, filled with fear.

Jersey looked over and noticed that Travis stood in front of her. He wore a malicious look on his face as his nostrils flared. Travis wasted no time cornering a frightened Kelli. Jersey realized that his shirt was torn as well.

"b***h you think I'mma give you back yo' phone? What? You tryna call that nigga?" He poked her in the head with every word, causing Jersey to interfere.

"Wait a minute—what's going on? Get your hands off of her!" She shouted as rage swept over her.

Travis looked over at Jersey who was trying to prevent him from hectoring Kelli. He pushed her back, making her trip on the broken statue that was on the floor. "Get the f**k of out of my face, Jersey. This doesn't have s**t to do with you."

"Ahh..." Jersey hissed while holding up her hand. She noticed a fresh cut that was located in the palm of her left hand. Luckily, it wasn't bad at all, but blood did drip from it. She looked over at him and doubled her lips in anger.

"Jersey just leave!" Kelli yelped out while trying her best to look over at her friend. "Go!"
Suddenly, Jersey's attention went on the sound of heavy footsteps. She looked up and noticed a sinister grin that casted down on her. Her body shivered in a horrible, cold way as she tried to move.

"Need some help?" Quintin asked, holding his hand out.