14. Jai
CHAPTER FOURTEEN
JAI
“ I t looks like somebody gotta give up those digits today,” a familiar, sexy voice whispered in my ear from behind, sending a shiver down my spine as I stood in line at the bank.
I hastily turned around to see Savvy, his trademark grin plastered across his face. He was dressed again in sharp business attire. That day, his suit was a striking navy blue, complementing his confident demeanor. I couldn’t help but smile back, though my mind was racing with questions about why he was in that particular place.
I let out a light chuckle, trying to play it cool.
“At this point, I’m convinced you’re actually stalking me.”
Savvy raised an eyebrow, amusement dancing in his eyes.
“So, we’re still on that, huh?”
“Unless you have another legitimate reason for being here,” I said, firmly folding my arms and preparing myself for whatever explanation he might give.
“Well, this is a bank—one of the largest in Las Vegas. So, perhaps it’s just a coincidence that we ran into each other yet again.”
“Imagine that.” I chuckled.
“Good morning, Mr. Morris!” some woman passing exclaimed cheerfully. A ripple effect followed as two more people turned around and greeted him with the same familiarity.
I raised an eyebrow, impressed and slightly taken aback.
“Well, if I didn’t know any better, I’d say you own this place.”
Savvy smirked. “What if I told you I do?”
“Well, do you?” I asked, genuinely interested in his answer.
Savvy glanced around the bank, ensuring our conversation remained private despite the bustle of customers.
“Do you trust me?” he asked, his voice dropping slightly, making the question feel more personal.
I hesitated for a moment with my response.
“Trust is a bit of a stretch, considering we’ve only had three encounters.”
“Based on those three encounters, have I given you a reason not to trust me?”
I paused again, taking a moment to reflect on the interactions we’d shared. They had been intriguing, but were they enough to build a foundation of trust?
“Not really, but still, I don’t know you that well. But what reason would I need to trust you?”
“I want you to follow me somewhere so we can have a more private conversation.”
When I raised my eyebrows, he let out a soft chuckle, clearly amused by my reaction. Leaning in closer, Savvy's voice dropped to a whisper.
“Calm down, gorgeous. I ain’t trying to kidnap you or no shit like that. We’ll be inside the building, and just so you know, this place is equipped with cameras at every angle, so you can rest easy. If I were planning some grimy shit, trust me, I’d get caught in a heartbeat.”
“Well, since you’re the owner, I would assume you could’ve had them rigged or something.”
Savvy smirked. “Not this time.”
My smile faltered.
“Are you going to follow me? Maybe I can help you with whatever assistance you need.”
Savvy’s voice was smooth. I stood there, weighing his words and contemplating his motives, wondering what kind of help he could truly offer.
After a moment of hesitation, I finally replied, “I’ll follow your lead, Mr. Savvy.”
As I trailed behind him, I couldn’t help but be captivated by the way he moved. Each step was deliberate and confident, demonstrating a natural charisma that hinted at deeper mysteries. A man’s walk can reveal so much about him, and Savvy’s stride exuded assurance—making it hard not to entertain the thought that he certainly knew how to make his way in more intimate matters. However, my thoughts were abruptly interrupted when we reached the elevator. A wave of unease washed over me as I saw him press the button for the top floor, a place I hadn’t anticipated visiting.
“ Trust, ” he said, catching my eye, his gaze urging me to let go of my doubts.
I took a deep breath and nodded, still feeling a flicker of apprehension mixed with intrigue.
“You said you were doing your fellowship at the hospital, right?” he asked, making conversation as we headed up.
“Yes.”
“I would’ve expected you to be at the hospital right now.”
“I was supposed to be, but I took the day off to handle some business. I’m actually transferring to the Chief Medical Examiner’s office, so I won’t be at the hospital too much longer.”
“The Chief Medical Examiner’s office?”
“Yeah. I got a job offer there while I’m still doing my fellowship.”
“Check you out. Ms. Money Making Jai.”
I chuckled. “I wouldn’t say all of that. The real money won’t start rolling in until I actually get that degree.”
“Well, I know who to holla at once you graduate. I’ma be in the crowd holding up a poster that says, Ms. Money Making Jai.”
I giggled.
“Dead ass. But congratulations, gorgeous.”
“Thank you.” I blushed.
Once we reached the designated floor, the doors of the elevator slid open to reveal Savvy's office directly in front of us. The moment Savvy stepped out, he confidently walked to the door and unlocked it, gesturing for me to enter first.
“Ladies first,” he said with a charming smile as he held the door open.
“Thank you again.”
I stepped inside, my curiosity piqued as I took in the surroundings. The room was just an ordinary office, equipped with a simple desk, a couple of chairs, and a filing cabinet. It was devoid of any personal touches, giving it a somewhat sterile feel.
“This office could definitely use a touch of décor,” I remarked, turning to Savvy with a playful tone. As I did, I noticed him making his way behind the desk.
With a swift motion, he placed a framed photo that had been on the surface face down as if trying to hide it from view. I couldn’t help but wonder if he was concealing his family from me.
Men !
Not waiting for Savvy to offer an invitation, I settled into the chair across from him, feeling anxious about the conversation that lay ahead.
“Savvy, can I ask you a question?” I ventured.
Savvy unbuttoned his blazer, a gesture that suggested he was ready to engage in a serious conversation, then took a seat, leaning forward slightly. “You can ask me anything, gorgeous,” he replied.
“Anything?” I confirmed, raising an eyebrow and adding a hint of humor to my question.
“Yes. An honest man doesn’t mind being questioned; a liar does. So, ask away,” he stated confidently, establishing an air of openness.
I smiled, appreciating his willingness to engage.
“Well, first, how long has your brother been in the hospital?”
I never got around to finding out if he was indeed in the hospital, so I was hoping that Savvy would enlighten me a little more on his brother’s condition. I mainly wanted to see if he was lying to me that day about his reason for being at the hospital.
“He’s been there for two months, but I’m actually having him discharged today.”
“Really? Why?”
“Let’s just say me and my family have gained a lot of enemies in the past, and I just don’t trust those muthafuckas, especially the doctors.”
Enemies? It sounds like his family is a part of a mob or something. I kept that thought to myself, though.
“So, where are you taking him?”
“To my crib. He’ll be safe there. I’m actually looking for a nurse, and since you’re technically a doctor…”
“I see what you’re getting at, Savvy, but I don’t know if I can fit two jobs in my schedule. Thanks for the offer, but I’ll have to pass.”
“On another note, forget I even asked you that shit. I forgot that job comes with bathing my brother, and I don’t need you looking at his dick and shit.”
Savvy’s expression contorted to an expression of anger. One would’ve thought I had already seen his brother’s dick the way he was staring at me.
“Okay, next question. How did you know I have a boyfriend?”
Savvy leaned back in his chair with his hands intertwined behind his head.
“You’re a beautiful girl, so I really just assumed.” He shrugged, but I wasn’t buying that.
I regarded him with a skeptical gaze, my brow furrowing in doubt. The sincerity in his eyes was hard to decipher, leaving me questioning whether he was truly being honest or if his charm was simply a facade masking the truth.
“Mm-hmm,” I replied in a dubious tone. “Well, since you know I have a boyfriend, what about you? Is there a special someone in your life?”
He smirked. “Something like that.”
A brief moment of jealousy coursed through me at the thought of him having a woman. However, I quickly brushed the feeling aside.
“I guess that must have been her in the photo,” I said, subtly letting him know I had noticed him place it down earlier.
Savvy regarded me with an impressed look.
“You’re very observant, I see.”
“Not much escapes my attention these days,” I replied, returning his gaze with a simpering smile.
Savvy picked up the photo and angled it toward me. The picture featured a chubby white man surrounded by what seemed to be his family, smiling and enjoying a moment together. Given that we were in Savvy's office, I found myself intrigued by the reason behind the photo being in his office.
“Who is that?” I inquired.
“So, when I told you that I was the owner of this place, I kind of lied. I’m actually a co-owner. The original owner was on the brink of bankruptcy, so my dad, a couple of his colleagues, and I stepped in to help him out. Unfortunately, he hasn’t been holding up his part of the deal, which means this place might soon be ours permanently. I’m actually here today for a meeting with him.”
“And you have a key to his office?” I asked, my interest deepening.
“I do… though he doesn’t know it yet. He'll find out today, that's for sure.”
“You seem to be such a mystery man.”
“Oh, I am, gorgeous.”
I cleared my throat.
“Well, considering this is merely an investment for you, what else do you do for a living?”
“I have my hands in a little of everything these days. But I’m really trying to get into the casino business. I actually have one opening soon. You should come and check it out once it does.”
“Hmm… impressive. Maybe I will.”
Savvy was becoming increasingly intriguing, each moment adding more layers to our conversation. It was refreshing to be in the presence of a man who viewed life through a broader lens than just the confines of the drug world, and I felt a spark of curiosity as we exchanged words.
“So, I guess seeing you here is just another coincidence, huh?” I ventured, a playful smile tugging at my lips.
“Or maybe it’s fate,” he replied, his gaze locking onto mine with an intensity that made my heart race.
We fell into a momentary trance, the air between us charged with an unspoken connection until I coughed lightly to clear the awkwardness.
“Let’s talk business, shall we?” I suggested, eager to change the subject.
“Business talk is my favorite type of language,” Savvy said, straightening in his chair, the playful demeanor replaced by a focused professionalism. “So, what can I help you with today, Ms…”
“Love. My last name is Love,” I responded.
“Jai Love. You have a beautiful face that perfectly complements such an intriguing name and vibrant personality,” he complimented.
“Thank you,” I replied, feeling warmth creep across my cheeks. “But is this how you usually conduct business, Mr. Morris? By charming your customers?” I teased, enjoying the banter. I remembered his last name countless times from the associates who greeted him in the lobby.
He smirked. “Sometimes it gets the job done.” He laughed.
We shared a lighthearted moment.
“But, for real, what can I assist you with?” he asked, steering the conversation back to the matter at hand.
“I…” I hesitated, a wave of embarrassment washing over me as I remembered the reason I had come to the bank in the first place. “I wanted to know what I would need to apply for a loan.”
Though I understood the basics of the loan application process, I craved the insight of someone with deeper expertise—someone like Savvy, who seemed to have a grasp on the subtleties of the financial world.
“When applying for a loan, several important factors come into play, with your credit score being the most significant one. Lenders typically use your credit score to assess your creditworthiness and determine the risk of lending to you. A higher credit score generally indicates a lower risk, which can result in better loan terms. In addition to your credit score, your credit history is also crucial. This includes your past borrowing and repayment behavior, any missed payments, and how long you've had credit accounts. A clean credit history shows lenders that you’re reliable and responsible with your financial commitments. Your income is another critical consideration, as it helps lenders gauge your ability to repay the loan. They may ask for documentation such as pay stubs, tax returns, or bank statements to verify your income. Collateral can also play a role, especially in secured loans, where the lender requires an asset (like a car or house) to secure the loan. If you default, they have the right to claim the collateral to recoup their losses. So, let’s start by examining your credit score and the other factors mentioned to better understand your loan eligibility.”
I chuckled at his professionalism. “Spoken like a true loan officer.”
“Well, I told you I dabble in a little of this… a little of that.”
“I see. But from what I know, my credit score is 798—that's what it was the last time I checked a few months ago.”
Savvy leaned forward slightly, resting his forearms on the polished surface of the desk with a focused expression on his face.
“Alright, that’s a solid starting point. Now, can you tell me about your income situation?”
“That’s where things get tricky,” I admitted, biting my lip. “I don’t currently have a job. Well, I just mentioned that I received a job offer, but I haven’t officially started yet.” I started to become frustrated as I explained my situation.
Savvy shook his head gently. “Well, if you’re looking to get a loan today, I’m sorry to disappoint you, gorgeous, but it’s going to take a little more than a good credit score and your beauty to get one without some kind of income.”
A deep sigh escaped my lips as I felt a sense of defeat wash over me. I knew I was setting myself up for embarrassment by even attempting to apply for a loan under those circumstances. Yet, it felt even worse to hear it directly from Savvy, someone who clearly was feeling me.
“Well, I appreciate you taking the time to explain what I need for my next visit,” I said, trying to regain some composure.
“No problem at all. Is there anything else I can assist you with today?”
“No, not really.” But then, an unexpected idea sprang to mind, prompting me to continue. “Actually, there is one more thing. I realize we don’t know each other very well, and this might come off as unprofessional, but you give off bad boy vibes.”
“Bad boy vibes, huh?”
“Just a little, ” I emphasized.
“Bad boy? Nah, more like a dangerous man.”
“Scared of you.” I chuckled.
“You shouldn’t be, but a lot of muthafuckas are and should be. But what you need me to do?”
“Um, I know what I’m about to ask you is probably illegal, but could you pull up an account for me?” I asked, hoping to mask the apprehension in my voice.
Savvy raised an eyebrow, his expression turning playful as he leaned back in his chair, a smirk spreading across his face.
“Of course, I can and will for you, but I have to ask. Who are you stalking?”
I let out a laugh, half-amused and half-defensive.
“Okay, why do you think I'm stalking someone?”
“Well,” he said, crossing his arms, “it’s clear that the account doesn’t belong to you.”
“Touche,” I conceded, feeling the heat rise to my cheeks. “But no, I’m not stalking anyone… per se. That account actually belongs to…” I faltered, my words hanging in the air as I hesitated to label Leek as my boyfriend in front of Savvy. “My boyfriend.”
Unbeknownst to Leek, I knew his account number. It wasn’t something I had felt the need to investigate before, but with the situation of him asking me to get a job, my curiosity was piqued.
Savvy leaned back in his chair, a bemused expression on his face. “So… you’re snooping on your man, huh?” he teased, clearly enjoying the moment.
“Yes. I mean, no! Can you do it?” I responded, the urgency in my voice bubbling to the surface.
He swiveled his chair toward the computer, his fingers poised over the keyboard.
“I got you. Give me the account number.”
After I recited the number, Savvy’s fingers flew across the keys as he accessed the account with a speed that spoke to his skill. Once the screen loaded, he chuckled softly, then turned the monitor toward me. I was utterly flabbergasted. The balance displayed on the screen was shockingly low. Leek used to have thousands in his account. What I saw before me now was a pitiful sum of just three hundred and some change.
What the hell, Leek? I thought. I was certain my expression betrayed the tumult of feelings stirring within me.
“Not the numbers you were expecting, I’m guessing?” Savvy asked, breaking the silence and looking at me with a knowing smile.
“Not even close. Can you scroll down for me?” I requested.
Without hesitation, he began to scroll, his fingers gliding over the mouse. As Savvy moved the screen downward, something suddenly caught my eye. I glanced at the transaction history and felt a knot tighten in my stomach. For the past six months, Maleek had been withdrawing between 5,000 and 9,000 on the same day every month. Given that occurred right after the rent was due, it didn’t make sense for it to be related to housing costs.
What on earth have you been up to, Leek? I pondered, my mind racing with questions.
“That’s all I need to see, but can I get a printout of the last six months of transactions?” I politely asked.
“Yeah, I got you.”
After a moment, Savvy handed me the printed pages, then settled onto the edge of the desk in front of me, an expectant look on his face.
“Will that be all?” he asked.
“Yes! Thank you for everything!” I replied, my cheeks flushing with embarrassment as I hastily stood up, eager to escape before he further questioned me about the account details.
Savvy, noticing my sudden departure, quickly followed my lead.
“Wait, Jai! You’re leaving so soon?”
“Uh, yeah,” I stammered, tucking a stray strand of hair behind my ear, avoiding his gaze.
With a gentle yet firm hand, Savvy tilted my chin, forcing me to lock eyes with him.
“Is that nigga not treating you right?” His gaze searched mine, piercing through my defenses.
Caught off guard, I froze, staring into his eyes, unsure of how to answer his question.
“He... he treats me good,” I finally managed to say, barely breaking out of the dreamlike state he had put me in.
“Your eyes and tone tell me differently,” Savvy softly said, his voice almost a whisper. “I just want you to know that if God made our paths cross, it’s because he wants a nigga like me in your life, someone who truly appreciates you.”
I chuckled at his charm. “Is that something you tell every woman you find attractive?”
“Not at all. You’re definitely the first,” he replied, his smile bright and sincere.
As we stood there, I felt the magnetic pull between us intensifying. Savvy’s lips were tantalizingly close to mine, and I couldn’t shake the feeling that we were on the brink of something unexpected. Just talking to him stirred a confusing sense of desire within me, making me feel as if I was betraying Leek. I needed to leave before I made a decision I might regret.
“Savvy, I really have to go!” I stressed, my voice firm but laced with reluctance.
“Aight, but you still owe me something.”
“Owe you what ?” I asked, genuinely confused by his implication.
With a playful smirk, Savvy pointed a finger at me and began to pace slowly. “Now, if I remember correctly, you told me that if we ran into each other again, you’d give me your number.”
A smile crept onto my face as I recalled the deal we made. “I did say that.”
“So, are you a woman of your word, or were you just telling me what I wanted to hear to get me out of your face?”
I laughed. “No, I wasn’t just telling you what you wanted to hear. I’m definitely a woman of my word. I honestly just didn’t think we’d see each other again, but… since I don’t want you to look at me as a liar, I’ll give it to you.”
“Aside from the fact that you’re a woman of your word, for what other reason are you so willing to give me your number?”
Just like me, Savvy was obviously very observant. I was going to give him my number, but I had no plans to respond to any of his calls or texts. Not because I wasn’t attracted to him, but despite what Leek and I were going through, I did respect my relationship not to actively engage with another man.
“There’s no catch,” I lied. “Hand me your phone.”
Savvy hesitantly pulled his phone out while never taking his eyes off me. Once it was in my possession, I plugged in my name and number then handed it back to him. Of course, like most niggas, he called my phone just to verify that I wasn’t pulling one on him.
I giggled. “Really, Savvy? Do you take me for that kind of girl?”
“Nah, but one can never be too sure these days. You know how y’all women do. Well, some of y’all.”
“That part… some. If I didn’t want you to have my number, you wouldn’t have gotten it, period.”
“Respect. But you ain’t gon’ change yo’ number, is you?”
I laughed again. “No, Savvy. You don’t have to worry about that either. Too many important people have my number.”
Savvy nodded. “Aight. Let me walk you out.”
“No, it’s fine. Really. Thank you for everything today.”
“I told you I don’t like the word, no , but…” he glanced at his watch, “since my meeting should be starting soon, I’ll give you a pass today. Make sure you pick up my calls and respond to my texts. Oh, and if that nigga don’t tell you good morning, don’t worry. I be up early, so from here on out, I will. No woman should start her day without a good morning and some good dick.” He winked sexily.
I discreetly clenched my thighs. That man was about to make me have an orgasm without even touching me, just from his smooth words.
Lord, please give me the strength to walk away from this man right now, I silently prayed.
“But I’ll let you go. Have a good day, gorgeous.”
“You have a better one, Savvy.”
I rushed out of the room, my heart racing, and made my way to the elevator. A sense of urgency drove my movements as I pressed the button for the ground floor. Just as the doors were about to close, I glanced back and caught sight of him standing in the doorway of the office. Savvy’s intense gaze fixed on me conveyed a powerful look of desire and longing. Sadly, I wanted him, too. At that moment, I wasn’t sure if it was as a companion or just a nigga to bless me from time to time with some good dick―at least he looked like he had some good dick.
As soon as the elevator dinged, signaling my arrival at the ground floor, I took a deep breath to steady my nerves. I lifted my head off the cool, metallic wall of the elevator cabin and stepped out into the busy lobby. When I reached the exit and stepped outside, I was hit with a wave of fresh air, but my heart sank when I noticed my car. It was being hoisted by a tow truck, the back end of my beautiful pink Range Rover already several inches off the asphalt. I couldn’t believe my eyes—I quickly rubbed them, hoping I was dreaming.
“Excuse me?! What do you think you’re doing?!” I yelled at the tow truck driver.
He stopped momentarily and glanced back at me with a look of annoyance on his face.
“I’m getting ready to tow this car, lady! Are you the owner?” he shouted back as he continued to secure the vehicle for towing.
Panic surged through me as I rushed forward, desperate to intervene before it was too late.
“Well, yeah, I’m the one complaining! Why are you doing this anyway?! I wasn’t parked in an illegal spot!” I fussed as I gestured toward the parking meter.
“No, you weren’t, but it seems you’ve missed quite a few payments on this nice baby!” he replied, his tone matter-of-fact.
“What?! Come again?! This has to be a mistake! My car is paid for!” At least, that was what Leek had told me.
The guy let out a chuckle―a sound that grated on my nerves―as if he found my distress amusing or that was the funniest thing he'd ever heard.
“Forgive me for laughing, but you’ll be surprised how many times I’ve heard that before. However, according to this paperwork,” he said, pulling out a sheet, “it’s not paid off. The company hasn’t received a payment in three months. See for yourself.”
He slid the paper toward me, and I snatched it up, scanning the fine print with growing anxiety. The more I read, the angrier I became. It felt like the walls were closing in on me. As I absorbed the details, I suddenly froze, my breath hitching in my throat as I came across the name listed as the car's owner.
“Angela Weatherspoon?” I murmured.
The moment I realized that the car I had been driving all this time was registered in Leek’s mother’s name, a wave of fury washed over me. I couldn't believe I had been tangled in this web of lies, and it felt like betrayal and vindication were battling within me. My hands trembled as I held the document.
“This muthafucka!” I shouted.
When Leek got the car for me, according to him, it was in his name. In the year I had the car, I never had a reason to check for the title. I never got pulled over by the police, whether for a roadblock or speeding, so I never had to show a title. I also didn’t get the tag when the renewal came around, so again, I never had reason to check the title.
“It seems like somebody messed you over,” the guy said in a sympathetic tone.
“Nah, I fucked myself. I should’ve been more attentive to things in my relationship, especially where important documents are concerned.”
He nodded, understanding my predicament. “Well, is there anything you need out of the car before I take off?”
“No. Just take it,” I said in despair.
“Listen, normally I don’t do this, but I can see this wasn’t your fault. I don’t mind offering you a ride somewhere, maybe along the way,” he suggested kindly.
“Thank you, but I’ll manage. I’ll just call an Uber when I get a chance,” I replied, trying to brush off his offer.
“Are you sure? I really wouldn’t mind helping you out,” he insisted, his tone genuine.
“Again, I appreciate it, but really, it’s okay. I’d prefer to handle this myself. Have a good day,” I said, hoping my decisive tone would end the conversation.
He nodded slowly, gazing at me with a look of concern. “I hope things start to look up for you soon. Just a little word of advice. Be more cautious in trusting people in the future,” he said as if he was sharing a bit of wisdom from his own experiences.
I mustered a slight smile, grateful for his kindness.
“Don’t worry. I will,” I assured him.
With a respectful tilt of his hat, he turned and continued on his way, leaving me to ponder my choices as I stood there, contemplating the lessons learned.
As soon as he got in his truck, I wasted no time dialing Maleek’s number. He was about to get an ear full and probably eye full―punch, to better put it―once I got home. However, when I tried calling him, the call wouldn’t go through. It was as if my phone was off.
I chuckled, but it wasn’t from humor. “You’ve gotta be fuckin’ kiddin’ me!”
In that moment, I kind of wished I had taken the guy up on his offer.
Fuck my life! I thought as I flopped down on the bench in despair.