19. Jai
CHAPTER NINETEEN
JAI
“ W ell, finally!” a gorgeous woman exclaimed, whom I assumed was Savvy's mother when we entered his brother’s room. “And wait… who is this beautiful young lady?”
Her tone softened, and she gazed at me with curiosity as she approached.
“Hello! I'm Jai,” I timidly replied, feeling a bit shy under her observant gaze and the watchful eyes of the man beside her, who bore a strong resemblance to Savvy. I took a moment to process that he must be Savvy's father.
“Hey, sweetie. I’m Gwen, and that’s my husband, Apollo. We're Savvy’s parents,” she introduced herself. Savvy’s father gave me a friendly smile and a short wave. “Son, is there something you haven’t told me?” His mom asked, looking between the two of us.
With an amusingly serious face, Savvy replied, “Yeah, I’m getting married tomorrow.”
My heart raced, and I quickly turned my head to Savvy, momentarily stunned. Did he really just say he was marrying me? Or was he talking about someone else? Doubt flooded my mind.
I whipped my head at Savvy, not only because I thought he was joking, referring to getting married to me, but I thought he could’ve been talking about someone else.
“M-Married? W-What?” His mom stammered, her brows knitting together in confusion.
“Son, what’s going on?” His father stepped forward, also with confusion etched on his face as he surveyed the situation.
“Yeah, that’s what I’d like to know too,” I chimed in, feeling a similar bewilderment as his parents.
Savvy chuckled. “I’m just playing, y’all. Jai is just a friend that I’m helping out. She was in the car with me when Ma called me, and she just decided to come along for the ride. She has a medical degree. Actually, she’s in school to become a medical examiner, so she could be of help during this transfer.”
His explanation brought a sense of relief to the room.
“A friend, huh?” his mom said, her tone laced with skepticism. “Well, son, based on everything you've just told me about her and seeing just how beautiful she is, I can definitely say that she seems like the type of woman you need in your life. I can picture you two together, and I wholeheartedly approve.”
Oh, Lord; he has one of those kinds of mamas, I thought, but then she added, “Not to be mistaken, dear, I’m not one of those parents who dictate whom my sons can or can’t be with. Both of my boys have excellent judgment, especially Savvy. I’m really not worried about him picking the wrong woman to be his girlfriend or future wife. Now that little knucklehead over there,” she gestured toward Savvy’s brother with a playful grin, “he’s a different story. He did have a special someone in his life, and actually, he still does.”
Savvy and his brother shared some similar physical traits, but if I saw his brother on the street, I would never have guessed they were related. Perhaps it could've been because of the possible weight he had lost during his time in the hospital that made him look slightly different. Regardless, both brothers undeniably shared one striking quality: they were both exceptionally handsome.
“Speaking of the special woman in my son’s life, here she is now.”
As I glanced over my shoulder, I noticed a stunning girl walking into the room. Her long, flowing hair danced lightly with each step she took, and her vibrant smile seemed to brighten the space around her. In her hand, she carried a Chick-fil-A bag, hinting at a delicious meal just moments away. The aroma of fried chicken and waffle fries wafted through the air—I was suddenly reminded of my neglected lunch, realizing I hadn’t eaten anything all day. My stomach rumbled softly in response to the delightful scent, intensifying my craving for a meal.
“Y’all, sorry it took me so long! That line was outrageously long!” she exclaimed, her voice lively and animated as she entered the room.
“Oh, sweetie, you didn’t have to get you anything to eat. I was planning on cooking for everyone once we got settled at the house.”
“Sorry, Gwen, but I couldn’t wait any longer.” The girl then turned her attention to Savvy, her expression brightening even more. “Oh, hey, Savvy!” she cheerfully called out. Finally, she glanced over at me and added with a friendly gesture, “And hello to you as well!”
“Hi!” I responded, raising my hand in a short wave, a smile spreading across my face as I felt an instant connection to her infectious energy.
“Skye, honey, this is Jai; she’s Savvy’s friend .” His mom hunched her eyebrows in a questioning way.
“Is that so?” Skye smiled. “And wait… your name is Jai? Like J. A. I?” she asked, enunciating each letter clearly.
“Yes,” I confirmed, a hint of curiosity in my tone.
“Your last name wouldn’t happen to be Love, would it?” she asked, her eyes widening, clearly eager to connect the dots.
A flutter of unease stirred within me as I glanced around the room, feeling as if I had stepped into a carefully orchestrated setup.
“Uh, yeah,” I cautiously replied, not quite sure what to make of her intense interest.
In that moment, Skye tossed her phone onto the table with a dramatic flair and shouted, “Oh, my God! I can’t believe it’s you!”
The excitement in her voice was impossible to ignore. Before I could fully grasp the situation, she rushed over and wrapped her arms tightly around me. As she hugged me, I stole a glance at Savvy and the rest of the family, wearing a puzzled expression that silently conveyed my confusion—what exactly is happening right now?
“So, I take it you two know each other, huh?” his dad asked, still looking completely bewildered, an amused expression spreading across his face as he attempted to unravel the unexpected turn of events.
I shook my head no, hoping that Skye wouldn’t see my gesture since she remained anchored in her exuberant hug. The friendliness radiating from her made me feel oddly special yet completely disoriented. As Skye finally pulled back from the embrace, I noticed tears shimmering in her eyes.
“Yes, I know her! She’s one of my favorite authors!” she declared, her voice brimming with admiration.
“Author?” came the collective exclamation from Savvy, his mom, and dad, their expressions shifting from confusion to fascination.
“Wait, wait, wait! You said ‘author’? I’m sorry, but I think you have me confused with someone else. I’m definitely not an author.”
Skye's face fell as she processed my words.
“What? You’re not?” Her disappointment was palpable. “But your name is Jai Love. Is this not you?”
She quickly pulled out her phone, her fingers flying over the screen to navigate to the author’s Facebook page. With a few taps, she turned the phone around and showed me a picture of another Jai, who bore a striking resemblance to me.
“Oh, wow!” I exclaimed, taken aback. Looking at the image, I had to admit that the other Jai and I shared many similar features—our facial structure, the shape of our eyes, and even the tone of our skin. It was uncanny. “I can understand why you might have mistaken me for her,” I continued, trying to be understanding, “She is very pretty, but she’s not me, and I’m not her. I’m really sorry for the confusion.”
I felt a twinge of guilt, especially since Skye had been so excited, seemingly on the verge of meeting her favorite author.
“Well, fuck me! I can’t believe this! I’m sorry for cursing Gwen and Apollo. I just feel like such a fool right now,” Skye admitted, her cheeks flushed with embarrassment.
“Don’t worry about it, girl,” I said, trying to uplift her spirits. “As they say, everyone has a twin somewhere in the world. As a matter of fact, why don’t you send me her information? I’d love to read some of her books.” I hoped this would not only distract Skye but also turn our little mishap into an opportunity for something enjoyable.
“Oh, my God! You read? Because I sure could use a reading buddy!”
“I do, but with school and all, I haven’t been able to get into too much reading lately. I definitely need to start back, though.”
“Well, give me your number so we can talk about some of these books, girl, and maybe gossip about men,” she added with a sly grin, shooting a glance at Savvy.
“Nah, don’t include me in y’all girl talk and shit, making me the topic of discussion.”
I chuckled.
“Oh, no, your brother will definitely be the topic of discussion,” she said, glancing at the brother in the bed. Skye’s expression shifted to a more somber tone, and I found myself curious about the relationship between her and Savvy’s brother. There seemed to be a story there, one that I was intrigued to learn about.
“Well, nonetheless, I’m glad we’re all getting acquainted and that we have a new member to join the family!” Savvy’s mom exclaimed with so much joy.
I looked at Savvy with wide eyes, wondering if he would clarify his mom’s statement. Instead, he simply smirked and shrugged nonchalantly.
“Welcome to the family, Jai. Oh, my God! You’re so beautiful!” his mom gushed,
“But―”
“You’re family now, sweetheart,” she declared, cutting me off, but in a nice way. “Whether you and Savvy are just friends, anyone who gets introduced to the family as a friend eventually becomes family, so you’re family.” She smiled.
“Yes, ma’am,” I responded, feeling a mix of flattery and awkwardness, forcing a shy smile in return.
I glanced over at Skye, and she was grinning, clearly entertained by the whole situation. I guessed she must have received a similar welcome when it came to Savvy’s brother.
“Savvy, where is that other child of mine? You did tell Draelon that Monte was being discharged today, right?”
They have another sibling? I wondered.
“Yeah, I told him, Ma. But you know that nigga be needing constant reminders. Let me call him.” Savvy turned to me. “I’ma step outside to make this call and a few more. Will you be good for a minute? I’ll be right outside.”
Skye slid between us. “Yes, she’ll be good! I’ll keep her company!” she assured him with a smile.
I chuckled. “I’ll be fine, Savvy.”
All Savvy could do was shake his head and say, “Women.”
Savvy’s parents ended up leaving the room as well. Once the room was cleared out, Skye focused on me.
“So… you and Savvy are friends?” Skye inquired with a smile and raised brows.
I grinned. “Yes, we’re just friends. I honestly can’t even say that we’re friends, considering how we met and how long we’ve known each other, but… if that’s what he wants to roll with, I will for the time being, mainly so I don’t disappoint his mom.”
“Girl, Gwen told me the same thing when Monte introduced me to the family. That’s just Gwen for you! But she’s cool peeps; definitely the life of the party and the one who holds their family together. If you stick around long enough, you’ll agree.”
“So, he’s your boyfriend, huh?”
“Ex,” she rectified.
“Oh!”
“It’s a long story, girl! But we have each other’s number now, so if you’re still interested after we part ways today, I’ll fill you in another day.”
I nodded.
“But your braids! Oh, my God! They’re so pretty! Who did them?!” she exclaimed.
I smiled. “My cousin. She’s the only person I let in this head.”
“Girl, she needs to bless this head of mine. Does she have a shop, number, or some way I can contact her?”
“She does.” I went inside my purse and pulled out one of Cali’s business cards. I always carried them with me to give away or in case someone was interested in her services. “Here you go!” I handed it to her.
“Thanks, boo! I’m definitely going to hit up her soon!” she said as she put the card away in her purse.”
While she was doing that, I finally really paid attention to the wording on her shirt.
“Chief Medical Examiner’s Office? Savvy told me that you’re a nurse. You must work there?”
“Girl, yes! I’m an autopsy nurse. You must be a nurse, too?”
“I’m actually a doctor. Well, I have my medical degree. I’ll actually start working there,” I pointed at her shirt, “next week. I got offered a pathologist job, under supervision, though, since I’ll be finishing up my fellowship.”
“Medical Examiner?! Look at you, girl! Black Girl Excellence!”
“Thank you!” I beamed at the compliment, feeling a rush of validation.
“No, seriously, that’s amazing! You don’t often see many of ‘us’ in that field! Kudos to you for breaking barriers! You must be the one stepping into Tracy’s spot, then. If that’s the case, we’ll be working together as partners! Look at God! I guess it was meant for us to meet today!”
“I guess so,” I replied, feeling a connection forming between us. Just then, the door swung open, and Gwen barged into the room, energetic and commanding, with Savvy, his dad, another unfamiliar male who I assumed was the Draelon guy, and a multitude of hospital staff following closely behind her.
“Alright, ladies, it’s time!” Gwen announced, her tone full of urgency.
“Let’s get to work, girl,” Skye said, her eyes sparkling with determination. I nodded, ready to dive into the challenges that lay ahead.
Upon waking up that morning, I had no inkling of the unexpected events that would take place. Little did I know that I would run into Savvy again, have my car towed due to my lying ass boyfriend, experience the frustration and humiliation of having my phone service cut off, and find myself in the unusual position of assisting with the transfer of a coma patient—someone I barely knew. Despite the chaos swirling around me, I couldn't help but feel a sense of significance in the moment, largely because of the additional education I had received compared to many of those around me in the hospital setting.
“Ms. Author, huh? I think you failed to mention that important detail about yourself to me,” Savvy teased as we walked toward the car after spending a long yet enjoyable day at his house.
We had been there for hours, surrounded by his family, who welcomed me with open arms, making me feel right at home.
“Hush!” I playfully swatted his arm, a light-hearted gesture that underscored the comfortable rapport we had already started to build.
“But I see you and Skye hit it off good.”
My thoughts wandered to Skye. It was quite a surprise to discover that I shared the same name as an author, not to mention we favored in the looks department. I couldn't help but smile at the coincidence.
“We did. She’s super cool, and so are your parents! I just fell in love with your mom!” I exclaimed.
“Yeah, they all cool peeps,” Savvy replied.
“Let’s talk about that meal she made! That shrimp, fish, and grits was sooooooo good!”
“Yeah, she can throw down in the kitchen. She calls herself a wanna-be chef,” Savvy said.
“Listen… the way that food tasted, she could definitely put some of these actual chefs to shame.”
The transfer of Monte from the hospital to Savvy’s house had gone remarkably well, with no complications whatsoever. Skye and I had worked seamlessly as a team to ensure everything was in order. It took us about two hours to get him settled comfortably into his new surroundings. I could only imagine how effective we would be when we finally began our official collaboration at work. During those two hours, my heart ached for Skye. Although she kept her feelings largely to herself, I noticed the toll the entire situation was taking on her. That was a momentous and emotional day, and while we were busy setting up Monte’s room and organizing his care, we also found a few opportunities to chat.
In one of those conversations, Skye opened up about the circumstances that led to Monte ending up in a coma. She shared the heartbreaking story of their relationship, revealing the struggles she had endured over the past five years. There had been infidelity, dishonesty, and Monte’s reckless lifestyle involving drug use and dangerous decisions. I admired her strength—leaving someone you love can be incredibly difficult, especially when you believe you are needed in their life. It seemed that it was only when the burden of it all became unbearable that she finally made the choice to walk away.
As we talked more, I found myself sharing my own story with her. I recounted how I first met Savvy, highlighting the unexpected twists and turns that led me to his house that day. Despite knowing that I was in a relationship, Skye, much like Gwen, confidently predicted that Savvy and I would soon become more than just friends. The thought lingered in my mind as we wrapped up our conversation, adding a layer of intrigue to my developing feelings for Savvy.
Before leaving, I gave Savvy my address. Once we were on the road, I leaned back, gazing out the window as the scenery whizzed by. My mind drifted to Savvy’s family, whose cheerful energy seemed to brighten any room they entered. They were lively and engaging, with a knack for storytelling that I was sure would make every gathering enjoyable. In contrast, I couldn't help but think about Maleek’s family, which often felt unusually quiet and reserved. Their interactions lacked the same joy and openness.
“You know, whenever I get married, I hope I marry into a family where I’m not looked at or treated like an in-law, but actually family. You get what I’m saying?” I vented.
“Yeah. Well, you’ll definitely get that family treatment if you marry me. So, when you wanna plan our wedding? I already told my folks that we’re getting married,” he kidded.
I chuckled.
“Nah, but for real, though, what is your relationship with yo’ nigga’s folks?” he pried.
“Well, his dad is dead, but that mom of his.” I scoffed. “Let’s just say that woman is a piece of work,” I said in so few words, hoping to avoid delving too deeply into my feelings or sharing too many personal details.
“So, in other words, you don’t like her ass. Answer this. Do you honestly think you can marry a man whose mama you don’t get along with?”
“I honestly don’t know, and it’s crazy you asked that because today is the only day that I’ve really thought about us being married with me having to deal with his mom for the rest of our lives, but I don’t want to talk about them. Let’s talk about that big ol’ house you got for it to just be you.”
“It is just me… for now.” He peered over at me and winked.
“Do you want kids?” I asked.
“I do… just one for now. My lifestyle is kind of hectic. Maybe when I retire from one of my businesses, I’ll probably want more since I’ll have time for more. What about you?”
“I don’t know. I do want a child, but I don’t know if it will be by my boyfriend, at least not how things are going with us. I mean, I know all relationships aren’t perfect, but the constant lies are becoming a bit much for me. If he lied about a damn title, I could only imagine what other secrets he might be hiding from me.”
Savvy nodded in agreement. “Pick up that bag in front of you. I got you something,” he instructed, changing the subject and gesturing toward a bag on the passenger's floorboard.
I noticed that it was an AT it wasn’t just one of them who had eyes for you.”
Savvy halted in his tracks, turning to face me with a serious expression that softened as he gently cupped my chin in his hand. His eyes held a depth that made me feel both cherished and exposed.
“Jai,” he began, his voice smooth and sincere, “whenever I’m around you—regardless of where we are or whether I’ve officially made you my woman—you will always shine as the star, the absolute center of attention. You have that magnetic quality, no matter how ‘too soon it may seem’ or how you may view it. Even when you’re not in my presence, you’ll still hold that position in my mind. Just remember this: my eyes will always be focused on you, so don’t let the attention on me worry you.”
Savvy’s words washed over me like a warm wave, and a deep blush crept across my cheeks, feeling both flattered and bashful under the intensity of his gaze.
With a charming smile and his head resting on the opened passenger door, he instructed, “Get in, gorgeous.”
“Yes, sir,” I playfully replied.
“So, you’re a church girl, huh?” Savvy asked, shifting the conversation as we settled into the car.
“Church girl? Not quite… at least not anymore,” I replied thoughtfully, gazing out the window at the streetlights flashing by. “But I definitely consider myself a praying girl. My grandparents raised me, and my grandmother was a true prayer warrior. Her unwavering faith was something to behold. I suppose you're wondering why I was raised by them instead of my parents. Well, they’re both dead. And if it’s all right with you, I’d rather not get into all of that tonight.”
Savvy nodded, a look of empathy crossing his features as he absorbed my words.
“I understand. Let me get you home. It’s been a long day for both of us.”
“Definitely,” I agreed, feeling a wave of fatigue wash over me as the reality of the day settled in.
After about eight minutes of navigating through the quiet streets, we were finally approaching the street I lived on.
“Uh, Savvy, you can drop me off right here,” I said, trying to sound casual as a nervous flutter danced in my stomach, uncertain of how he’d react to my request.
“Here? And let you walk in the dark… by yourself? Hell no, Jai!” he exclaimed, his voice laced with protectiveness as he glanced around the darkened street.
I took a deep breath, trying to sound more convincing. “Savvy, my house is only a few doors down—the beige one with the porch light on. I’ve had enough drama for one day, and my boyfriend has been blowing up my phone. So, I’m sure he’s pacing by the window, just waiting for me to show up. Can you do this one thing for me, please ? You can even stay right here, in your car, until I’m safely inside.”
Despite the visible hesitation in his posture, I could tell he was considering my words. Finally, he sighed and relented.
“Aight, but I’m not leaving until I see you step foot inside your house.”
“Sounds fair,” I said, relief flooding through me. I gathered up my belongings—my purse and the AT it was a mixture of shock and guilt. He had been caught red-handed, and there was no escaping the truth now.
“Jai―” he started to explain, but I interjected.
“First, it was me finding out about the lease, then your mama having a key to the house, and now there's the title issue with the car! What could possibly be next? Are people going to start showing up to take my clothes and shoes?! Because, at this point, that’s all I have left to lose!” My voice trembled with anger and disbelief as I struggled to comprehend the tangled web of deception I was caught in.
“Jai,” he said, attempting to reason with me.
“No, Leek, just save whatever you have to say! I don’t have time to listen to any more of your excuses or lies tonight! I’m sure that if the title is in her name, it’s for the same reason the lease is in her name! But I need to know one thing: how the hell did you expect to sell the car if it’s not even paid for?” I glared at him, demanding an explanation.
“It should’ve been paid for by now,” he replied through gritted teeth.
I couldn't help but let out a snicker. The absurdity of the situation was overtaking me.
“Let me guess, your mama was supposed to handle that.”
His silence was all the confirmation I needed.
“Well, it looks like mommy dearest fucked you over. Hell, both of us! Now, how am I supposed to get back and forth to my fellowship and to see my grandfather?!”
Just the thought of missing those important moments ignited a fire inside me, further fueling my rage.
“Jai, you can drive my car until I get this shit figured out!” he offered, attempting to resolve the situation.
“I don’t want to drive your car, Leek. I want mine! And that’s the problem. This shouldn’t even be a situation! If it was, it should’ve been discussed between me and you, not you and your mama! Like, damn, am I even a part of any of the decisions being made around this muthafucka?! Leek, when are you going to grow up and be a fuckin’ man?!” I finally asked.
“What?! I am a man!” Maleek shot back, his voice rising as he stepped into my space, his body tense as if he wanted to fight rather than just argue.
I drew back slightly, maintaining eye contact as I raised my finger, which hovered an inch from his face. I could see Leek’s eyes flash with defiance, but I pressed on, my voice low and steady. “Leek,” I began, each word deliberate, “I can tell that what I just said hit a nerve deep inside you, but let me make this perfectly clear. As long as you are alive and breathing, you will never yell at me like that again, nor will you ever move toward me as if you intend to hit me. If you consider yourself a man, then tell me—where’s your mama’s key? Have you managed to retrieve it?”
“I’m working on it,” he answered in a lower, calmer tone.
“Hmph. Well, continue to work that dick with that hand of yours. I’m going to bed. Oh, and by the way, try to keep your moaning down tonight. You were a little riled up and a bit noisy last night. Goodnight!”
I flashed him a fake smile and then made my way to the back of the house. Each step felt heavier as I approached our bedroom door. Once inside, I carefully pulled the door shut, ensuring it was locked tight. With the door securely fastened, I took a moment to lean against it, my heart pounding as I gathered my thoughts in the stillness of the room.
I was in need of a warm bath, but I was also in need of a sexual built-up release. I went into my secret stash and located my Rosie Girl as I called my toy rose. With thoughts of Savvy, and a freaky porn playing on my phone, I lay in the middle of the bed with my legs spread and my head tossed back as I let Rosie girl have her way with my clit.
“Mmm, Savvy.” I moaned his name multiple times as I cupped my left breast and pinched my nipple.
Between the lewd thoughts of Savvy and the way that nigga was eating ol’ girl’s pussy on the video, it had me gripping my sheets and coming to an orgasm in no time.
“Ouuuuu, shit!” I cooed louder and couldn’t have cared less if Maleek heard me.
It was sad that Rosie girl could bring me more pleasure than my own man could. As long as I had her, I didn’t have to worry about going to bed angry due to lack of sexual satisfaction, but I couldn’t lie and say that it wasn’t getting old having to pleasure myself for a satisfying nut when I had a whole nigga there who was supposed to handle that and much more.