Dear Black Women: Things You Can Do Today to Prepare for What’s Coming
Start a Commonplace Book: Fill it with gardening tips, food preservation techniques, safe spaces that offer resources, uplifting quotes or scriptures, survival techniques—anything you might need or want to remember if digital access disappeared.
Consider a Vow of Abstinence: Childbirth has always been dangerous, but now it’s on another level. Protect your health and your body.
Talk to the Men in Your Life: If they’re not doing what’s needed to protect you and build community, it’s time to X them out. No room for dead weight.
Make a Plan: If things were to go wrong tomorrow, what resources do you have to protect yourself? Where’s a safe place you can go to find community? If you don’t have one yet, start looking—ASAP.
Get Real with Yourself: Look in the mirror and get honest about what you’re willing to do to protect yourself. Toughening up is non-negotiable. Nobody else is coming to save us.
Hone Your Skills: Whatever skills you have, build on them. You need to have something to offer to get what you need.
Do Your Research: Learn all you can about anything you feel might be useful to you. Whether it’s survival techniques, women’s rights movements in other countries, the impact of political unrest, or what to expect when this country inevitably falls apart—prepare yourself. Equip yourself with the truth, no matter how ugly it may be.
Trust Your Own Judgment: Strengthen your instincts and learn to use discernment. The time for letting others make decisions for you or simply going along to get along is over. Take an active role in your life and in shaping what happens to you.
Keep Your Spirits High: Don’t waste energy hate-watching Trump or his speeches—they won’t tell you anything new. Turn off the TV and make sure your own household is strong.
Remember Our Resilience: We come from people who survived much worse with a lot less. Celebrate the small wins and appreciate what you have.
Stand Together: Do not let them turn us against each other. The most powerful thing we have is community.
There are things on this list I still need to do myself, but this is the path forward as I see it. We aren’t superhuman and we can’t outrun what’s coming, but we can prepare ourselves and move accordingly.
You can re-edit for personal use
Do Not resell
Do not re-upload
Don't convert my mesh to anywhere else
Thanks for all CC creators
Thank for support me
禁止打包与二次售卖
I'm really getting into this selfie override thing. I wanted to give masculine sims some very relaxed chill selfies that weren't overly animated. Just something very relaxed and stoic.
Whats Included
A total of 4 Selfie Overrides.
3 In Sad
1 In Angry
How To Use
Make sure you cycle through the correct category to get the poses. Meaning, if these selfies say they are in Sad or Angry make sure you're in that section. If you cycle through only on random, you might see these poses (you may not). You never know what the game will randomly choose for you.
I have new overrides for you. These are meant to be for sims that are elders and give them the cliche selfies they usually take. I documented the whole process on twitter. It was a lot of fun!
What's Included
A total of 3 Selfie Overrides.
3 In the Relaxed CategoryHere is some of the inspiration photos I thought were really cute!
This one is super cute, Its with the elder taking a selfie with a backwards phone. You use the ingame phone for this. I didn't test it with an override. I think the traditional dated phone makes it even more funny.
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This one is all about when an elder opens their face front camera and appear to take a selfie from down below.
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This one I took inspiration from an elder who accidentally takes a photo at their attempt to touch the screen, maybe figure out how to turn it off and justs overall seem confused about it.
Cupids Corner Compatible
How To Use
Make sure you cycle through the correct category to get the poses. Meaning, if these selfies say they are in the relaxed category make sure you're in that section. If you cycle through only on random, you might see these poses (you may not). You never know what the game will randomly choose for you.
The piercings from the Urban Homage kit were the first piercings I've genuinely liked that are non-cc ones, but the only thing that bummed me a little about them was that you could only apply all 3 pieces, the septum and both nostrils, at once. So, because they also visually kind of remind me of the piercings that I've made over years, I decided to go a bit further with that notion and seperate them, and make them completely compatible with my DIY system.
Additionally to that process, I've added a few extra versions, for example the nostril piercing having a smaller variant, and some septum placement/size alternatives. Hope you enjoy ♡
Things you should know:
Base game compatible.
For fem + masc frames, teen-elder.
4 nostril, 5 septum variations.
12 colors for all piercings.
Found under general (face) acc category.
Compatible with different presets and nose shapes.
You can use the piercings on their own, or combine them to your liking.
➔ DOWNLOAD (Patreon FREE)
If you like, please consider to support my work 🖤
● ALL MY CC DOWNLOADS
He looked at the drink on the table, seeming intrigued. Picking it up without permission – he still had that bad habit of thinking the world was his oyster and he could pearl dive any time he pleased, regardless of personal space or property rights – he held it to the light and look up at it. One dark brown eyebrow cranked up with interest. Then, he took a sip from her straw, seeming to savour the flavour a moment, measuring it across his palette. When his curiosity was satisfied, he put the drink back down in front of her.
“Interesting,” was all he said.
This was all very typical Erik.
“What did you mean by what you’d said earlier? And don't give me any half-baked answers like the last one,”Emoni demanded, taking up her new drink and sucking down a mouthful.
He shrugged and nudged his chin towards the barge. “Vegas is the city of vice and sin, Daniels. Did you really think I was only interested in coming here for a wedding, especially knowing you were here – having fun without me?”
Her heart thumped into her throat. She took another sip for courage. "R-really? And why's that?"
His gaze moved back to hers, locked on and held hard. A simmering heat warmed up those inky-black orbs that stared into her soul and a small confident smile graced those luscious lips. "You know why."
Emoni now knew what a deer in the headlights felt like. A nervous energy radiated out of her tummy and flowed across her limbs, making her hands shake. She put the drink down and refused to look away.
“What are you saying?”
Emoni required full disclosure. No games. She wasn't built for innuendo. With her, direct was always better.
“What do you want with me?”
With slow, purposeful movement, Erik uncrossed his legs and leaned into her. His knee wedged between hers, and his hands leaned on the arms of the lounge chair Emoni sat in outside of the ballroom, caging her. His mouth moved with clear intent towards hers, stopping as he pillowed very softly right over them. It was an almost-kiss. His half-lidded eyes looked directly into hers without flinching.
“I want you to have the best damn night of your life with me. I want you to let go and tap into your wild side…explore Sin City and forget morals…”
Emoni blinked slowly at him and then she parted her lips to speak.
“…And?”
“…I want to fuck you.”
She’d never been more scared of sex in her life than she was in that moment. Even her first time had been comfortable. She’d planned that night out in detail after all, fully prepared. Since then, She’d only been with two other men – one a short summer fling, and the other a toxic relationship. After they'd failed, She’d sworn no more until Mister Right came along.
Erik was staring at her in the face right now, telling her that he wanted to fuck her, and the heat in his eyes said it would be to within an inch of her life. Emoni knew his reputation, she knew he was skilled and hung and… oh my God, it didn't matter that he had a potential witless fiancée back in Wakanda waiting - Emoni wanted him! She felt like she’d been waiting all her adult life for this moment. It was terrifying.
She gathered her courage. Could she do this? It was crossing some serious moral lines that she’d once upon a time, when she’d been younger and more naïve, believed in maintaining at all costs. She didn’t understand why she was struggling with this. After all, she did plan on leaving tonight with some random fine ass man!
Yet, it hadn't been her who'd made the proposition. Erik was the engaged one.
“What about that potential fiancé of yours back in Wakanda? And that model chick back in Cali?” Emoni challenged.
He frowned a bit. “What about them?”
Emoni shoved on his shoulder and tsk'd. “Aren’t you engaged?!”
“No, that’s where you have it all twisted. They want me to marry this woman back in Wakanda but at MY request, I want to find my own suitable princess. Fuck all that old fashioned bullshit.”
It was her turn to frown. “What does that even mean?!”
Erik shrugged. “She's obviously not someone I want to marry. She feels the same to be honest. She’s got her own shit going on with some dude she’s into.”
Now, Emoni was getting angry. “So, you thought you'd just go on out and get a piece of your own while the cat is away? Any port in the storm - that it?”
That infuriating smirk crawled up his dimpled cheek. "Not any port, no. A particular one, yes."
Her jaw fell open. "You're unbelievable! You have the audacity to just…"
{ Kiss }
Emoni didn't get any more out as he leaned forward the rest of the way and kissed her for the first time. Her toes curled. She thought her head was going to explode from the pleasure. Seriously. Holy shit, Erik Stevens could kiss! Emoni wanted to curl up in his lap right then and there and let him kiss her until the end of the world rained down upon their heads. His lips were plump and soft, his tongue tasted sugary and it slithered into her mouth so skillfully she almost fainted. The little breaths he released shot straight to her drenched folds. It was the type of kiss she’d had wet dreams about.
“You're using me,” Emoni trembled against him as he pulled back a bit.
“I'm not,” he vowed, very assured.
She shook her head as he dipped over her lips with peppering kisses.
“What is this if not using, Stevens?”
His tongue slipped past her open mouth and twined with hers. He growled, and she heard it over the music in the background. She felt it in her ribs.
“You're thinking too hard – again,” he contested. “Stop. Just feel.”
“This is crazy,” Emoni whimpered. “You'll hurt me.”
Erik pulled back to stare deeply and intensely into her eyes. Emoni searched his gaze, this overpowering emotion between them strong.
"I won't. Come with me," he took her hand, and backed up to give her room to stand with him. He tugged, and Emoni flowed up into his arms, which held her tight to his muscular frame. He smelled incredible – a spicy, musky cologne that tantalized her senses. His lips hovered over her ear again like he did on the dance floor.
“Be mine, Emoni. Let me show you. I promise I won’t hurt you.”
Gathering her purse, she threw a last look over at the dance floor as he led me away.
———
The interior of Erik’s sports car with butterfly doors was pristine and smelled like him. They zoomed off away from the wedding, the garter Erik removed from Emoni’s thigh wrapped around his gear shift and his mask resting atop his head. Emoni clutched onto the handle above her seat and clenched her thighs together. It was something about the speed and the way Erik maneuvered the car that turned her on. A few stray curls had slipped from her up-do and fell into her eyes. She looked pleasantly disheveled.
“Have you ever been a passenger princess before?”
“H-huh?”
Erik gave Emoni a quick glance with a chuckle. He reached out to turn down his music so she could hear him better.
“Have you ever been a passenger princess?”
Emoni slowly nodded her head, “I’ve ridden passenger side with my ex many times—”
“No, no. Have you ever been a passenger princess?”
Emoni pondered his words, too intoxicated to think straight. She finally understood what he was asking her and a fresh wave of arousal showered her. This was going to be a long night of fucking and sucking for the both of them.
“I—no. No, I can’t recall that I have…”
Her chest heaved up and down as she watched Erik take his free hand to grip her knee closest to him. He forced her leg apart and his fingers pressed firmly into the flesh of her inner thigh.
“Take your panties off and give them to me.”
“What do you plan to do with them?”
“Keep them. Enough questions, Emoni. Remember, relax and just enjoy.”
Emoni exhaled and went to work taking her red lace panties off. She slowly held them out for Erik to take and he plucked them out of her hand before taking a quick whiff and placing them in the front pocket of his cotton dress shirt. Emoni sat there with her mouth unhinged and wide eyes.
“This is what’s gon’ happen. You’re gonna cum from my fingers like a true passenger princess, and you’re gonna clean the mess you make off of my fingers. Understand?”
“Erik—”
“For the duration of our evening of naughtiness, Miss Emoni, you are to refer to me as daddy. Your Highness is good too…”
Erik stroked her chin quickly before making a turn. So many rules to his little game. What if she wanted to make some rules too?
“…okay. And if I don’t?”
“Easy,” Erik cut his dark eyes at her, “You’ll get a spanking.”
“As if—”
“Emoni, I’ve waited for this moment for a very, very, very long time. I’ve wanted to do things to you…things you wouldn’t be able to handle. One of those things is putting you over my knee and spank that impertinent ass. Stop with the questions, okay? Breathe.”
She was stunned to silence.
[ Relax ]
Emoni exhaled and relaxed into her seat. She giggled to herself while staring out of the window.
“Maybe I am prudish. Who am I to deprive myself of a good time? Even if that means being a bad girl.”
A slow, sly smirk crept up Erik’s face.
“So, when do we get to cement my position as passenger princess, daddy?”
Erik almost slammed on his breaks. Emoni brought her knees to her chest and teased Erik while inching her dress up past her thighs. He was fighting the urge to take his eyes off the road. The smooth, shiny flesh of her beautiful legs had him drooling. The sight of those petite ankles, the slim width of her feet and their pretty arches, along with those adorably painted toenails made him uncomfortably aware of his growing erection. Shit, he'd never been a 'foot man' before, but he had the feeling that after tonight, he was going to be a convert to the cause. Every inch of her body would be revealed to him soon enough and he couldn’t wait to taste and touch.
“You’re so fuckin’ beautiful.”
“Tell me more,” Emoni cooed, blinking her eyes seductively with a bite of her lip.
“Your intellect turns me on. When you’re mad you make the cutest face and I just want to nibble all over your cheeks. You always smell amazing. I wish I was your first instead of that dumb ass nigga all those years ago. You make me feel all types of ways and I just—I just—”
Erik turned his gaze toward her.
“You just what?” Emoni questioned.
{ Say It }
“I’minlovewithyou.”
The words came out jumbled as if he were forced to say those words. Emoni stared at him unblinking.
“…Did you just say that you love me?”
“I did…didn’t I?” Erik chuckled nervously, “uhh—”
[ Say It ]
“I love you too!”
They were at a red light. Both Erik and Emoni stared into each other’s eyes.
BEEP! BEEP!
Erik blinked away suddenly and floored it. Emoni’s head collided with the seat. She glanced over at Erik, catching his eye. Both of them giggled.
“I’m so in love with you, Emoni Isabella Davis. DAMN. It feels so good to say that. I’ve been dying to say that to you.”
“We’re in love,” Emoni said with a whimsical laugh, “love! I’ve wanted to tell you how much I love you for so long! What a relief!”
“I know, right?! Such a relief.”
“I love you Erik N’Jadaka Stevens,” Emoni said cheerfully.
“And I love you, my precious Emoni.”
Erik’s hand slipped between Emoni’s thighs and she gasped with excitement. His touch was electric. Like a zing she felt it from head to toe. Her chest thrust out and she grabbed onto his wrist. The tips of his thick fingers feathered over her plump outer lips. She hadn’t waved in over a month and for a second she wanted to refuse his hand out of embarrassment but it just felt too good. He grunted like a primal animal when his fingers tore away from her moist center.
Erik inspected his fingers and neither of them could believe how much arousal seeped from her opening. She’d never been that wet because of a man. You’d think she used lube to get herself that slick. Slowly, Erik sucked on his fingers. Emoni whimpered at the visual.
“Fuck,” Erik licks his lips, “Spread your legs more for me, baby…”
Emoni opened up wider and watched Erik’s hand creep between her legs again. This time, he parted her lips to feel further in between. His middle finger flicked upward on her clit and her back arched from the seat. Erik maneuvered the car through a tunnel with the windows down and one hand on the wheel. Erik couldn’t believe how wet she was. Emoni could feel herself climaxing already. She threw her head back, shut her eyes tightly, and closed her thighs around Erik’s hand.
The pulse under her skin began thrumming with speed. She felt a little dizzy from his intimate touch. They were simpatico in their desires for each other, it seemed. Maybe she wouldn't end up quite so devastated from this in the morning. She hoped, anyway. She was feeling as bold and sexy as she had while drinking that cocktail at the reception, and although she had little experience, she’d done enough reading on the subject, and seen plenty of porn. Emoni knew what might work, and she rolled with it, allowing the buzz from the alcohol to chase away her inhibitions.
“You just came for me…already? Mmm…you needed me, baby…I’m the only one that can make you feel like this…”
“Yes, please, daddy, stick your fingers inside…”
“Like this?”
Erik slipped two fingers deep – his middle and ring finger – groaning as he fit his fingers into her powerful passage. She expanded and lubricated his digits more the deeper he went. With each decent, her walls would clench. Emoni didn’t know this, but Erik’s dick was painfully hard. It was morning wood times a hundred. Hard and unyielding. Pulsating with a need to be freed. Balls tight with an unbearable lust to be emptied. More precum than he’d ever witnessed staining his briefs.
“Oh, shit, that pussy feels amazing, Princess. Damn, this pussy is nice and fuckin’ wet.”
“it’s so deep…oh, fuck…daddy…right there…more…unh!”
Emoni’s legs spasmed with her second release. This time, she creamed all over Erik’s fingers. Jolts of pleasure came over her body the more Erik finger-fucked her. He didn’t stop, he needed to see it again. He pulled into a parking spot outside of a Karaoke club and unfastened his seatbelt swiftly. Erik brought Emoni’s seat all the way back and he leaned over her body to capture her lips. His tongue snaked into her mouth while his thick fingers pumped in her deeply. The flesh of her cleavage bounced, she was breathless, and her eyes were closed tight.
Erik broke the kiss to watch her face. Emoni’s eyes slowly slid opened and her gaze connected with Erik’s.
“Watch me…I want you to watch how beautiful you look cumming for me,” Erik pulled down the mirror so she could watch her face, “You look like a goddess, baby. So beautiful…so wet for me…such a good girl…”
Emoni blinked back tears of pleasure. Erik couldn’t keep his mouth off of her. He was attacking her neck now like a wild beast, licking and nibbling all over her flesh. His lips made its way to the tops of her breasts, the sensation mixed with his fingers going in and out of her causing her to moan out loud. The windows are rolled down, surely someone heard.
“Daddy! You’re making me cum again!”
“Cum, baby, let it out…that’s it…”
Emoni tore her eyes away from the mirror and smashed her lips into Erik’s. One hand fisted the front of his cotton dress shirt while the other squeezed his bicep like she was trying to pop a muscle. When the last bit of tremors wore off and their kissing stopped, Erik’s fingers gently slipped out of her opening. Emoni dropped her eyes down to his hand and couldn’t believe how much cream coated his fingers.
“Suck.”
Emoni parted her glossy lips and Erik’s fingers sat on her tongue. She wrapped her lips around his fingers and suctioned while staring into his dark eyes.
“I can’t wait to have you, Emoni. I’m so hard right now…”
His fingers left her mouth and Erik raised her seat into its original position. He fixed her dress and smoothed a few curls from her eyes.
“Where are we?” Emoni asked, still on cloud nine from that amazing foreplay.
“Karaoke. I want to watch you sing.”
“Wait…Erik, I’m a terrible singer! Why can’t we just go back to your beach house and fuck?! This is embarrassing…” She covered her face with her hands.
“Remember what I said, this is a night to let loose and have the best fucking time of your life. Stop worrying about being perfect all the time, Emoni. Come on.”
Erik made sure he was decent before leaving his car and walking around to open Emoni’s door. She grasped his hand and Erik helped her out of her seat, fixing her dress and hair before retrieving her hand bag. He closed the butterfly doors and led the way towards the entrance. Emoni’s heart was hammering away at her chest. She couldn’t believe she was about to do this in front of an audience.
———
Emoni was about to experience Karaoke the Vegas way. They entered a vibrantly lit bar decorated with neons of all colors. Although she was nervous, she actually loved the vibes already inside KAMU Karaoke. Erik guided her towards an open high-top table next to the karaoke stage. He pulled out her seat and startled her by picking her up and placing her on the stool.
Erik took a seat across from her, rolling up the sleeves to his cotton button down and undoing the first two buttons so he could loosen his tie easily. Emoni couldn’t look across at Erik without clenching her thighs together. He gave her a knowing smirk as if he could read her mind.
“You want another drink?!” Erik asked.
“Uhh—how about shots?!”
“Shots?! You sure?!” Erik gave her a scrutinizing look with his thick lips twisted, “Whatchu want?!”
“Chilled Patron shots with a lime garnish please!”
“Ooh, my kind of girl!” Erik reached over to caress her chin with his thumb, “I’ll be right back!”
Erik hopped down and headed towards the bar.
Two months ago, if anyone would have told Emoni that she’d one day be the recipient of Erik Stevens’ sexual interest, and that she’d actually crave him back, she would have laughed herself silly. Now, she wasn't finding the idea so funny. Provocative? Certainly. Humorous? No.
Erik had returned with four shots, carefully placing them down on the table before taking his place across from her again. They each grabbed a glass, toasted each other, then tapped it on the table before knocking it back. It went down smooth and the taste of the lime on her tongue was an added bonus.
For several long seconds, they stared at each other – Emoni was caught off guard and clearly surprised by what had transpired between them. Erik smirked with amusement at having thrown her for a loop again. His eyes drifted lazily down her form during that momentary pause, appreciating her beauty. He surprised Emoni by reaching across and tugging gently on a curl.
“Take down your hair.” Erik commanded.
Emoni gave Erik a nervous glance before reaching up to remove the pins that held her curly updo in place. When she’d retrieved the last pin, Emoni placed them in her bag and shook her curls out with her fingers. Chocolate-brown ringlets framed her face and fell into her eyes. She looked over at Erik expectantly as heat crept over her melanated flesh. 
“Different,” was what he came up with, and Emoni could just barely make out what he said over the noise around them.
She scowled at him. That wasn't the word she’d been hoping to hear. 'Beautiful,' 'amazing' or maybe even 'tasty' would have been much more appreciated. 'Different' was safe and utterly unflattering. Sheraised an eyebrow in displeasure.
“Quite,” She said louder and with a bitter tone so he'd hear her, and then she rolled her eyes.
He knew exactly what to do to piss her off.
[ Relax ]
Emoni exhaled and a calming sensation washed over her body.
Unexpectedly, in that same moment, that familiar voice of his sent a shiver up her spine. “Different and delicious, Daniels.”
She nearly dropped the shot glass.
“Drink every drop for me,” he bade in that same compelling tone, “I want to taste it on your lips and tongue later.”
Instantly, the flash of desire warmed her lower extremities, making that fluttering in her stomach kick up a pace. She felt her nipples tighten at the thought of what was to come.
Oh, no - absolutely not a mistake coming here tonight.
“Are you gonna go up there?!” Erik raised both of his brows at her.
“I don’t know. There’s too many people here!”
“Emoni. Get your fine ass up on that stage and have some fun! Trust me, nobody will laugh or make fun of you, baby. And if they do…I’m knocking ‘em out.”
Emoni looked over at the stage and giggled at two drunk white girls singing Spice Girls- Wannabe. Her eyes moved over the crowd of people and most were cheering them on and singing along while others were too drunk to care. Emoni knew she could do it. She’d presented in front of a larger audience before at work and during her college days. With a final exhale, Emoni finished her shot and stood up from her stool carefully. The two girls exited the stage and that gave her the opportunity. She gave Erik one look and he gave her an encouraging smile with a tilt of his head.
Emoni walked towards the stage and took her time climbing the short staircase. Instantly, she could feel people watching her. She walked up to choose a song, tremors in her fingers a reminder of how nervous she was. Emoni found a song and grabbed a mic before turning to face that room full of people. Erik was standing closer, a reassuring look in his eyes that gave Emoni a boost of confidence. The song started and the crowd instantly started vibing to the classic.
You've been waiting so long, I'm here to answer your call
I know that I shouldn't have had you waiting at all
I've been so busy, but I've been thinking 'bout
What I wanna do with you…
She cleared her throat a little and gave a nervous nod in Erik’s direction when he shook his head for her to keep going. Suddenly, she felt like she could do anything. One look at him and she forgot all about how afraid she felt.
I know them other guys, they been talking bout the way I do what I do
They heard I was good, they wanna see if it's true
They know you're the one I wanna give it to
I can see you want me too
Now, it's me and you…
Emoni was swaying her hips to the sultry beat, giving off seductive energy, locking eyes with Erik, and not once did she stumble over her words.
It's me and you, now
I've been waiting (Waiting)
Think I wanna make that move, now
Baby, tell me if you like it (Tell me if you like it)
It's me and you, now
I've been waiting
Think I wanna make that move, now
Baby, tell me how you like it!!!!
People were out of their seats, wolf whistling and clapping. From the looks of it, she was the most entertaining that evening thus far. Some men gave her hungry looks, some women envied her, and the others were so excited they sang along to the lyrics. Erik couldn’t contain his smile and his utter shock. Emoni Davis was having fun and cutting up. She strutted over towards Erik with her adorable self and started singing to him with the sweetest voice and her finger pointed at him. Erik’s eyes grew wide and his smile widened with his dimples popped out.
Baby, I’ll love you all the way down!
Get you right where you like it, I promise you'll like it (I swear)
Just relax and let me make that move (It's our secret thang)
Keep it between me and you!!!!
It's me and you, now (Oh Yea-a)!!!!
I've been waiting
Think I wanna make that move, now (Move now)
Baby, tell me if you like (Tell me if you like it)
I’ve been waiting! I’ve been waiting!
The music faded and Emoni covered her face while the audience cheered her on. She couldn’t believe she did that. Emoni gracefully exited the stage and she held out the mic for Erik to take.
“It’s your turn now, Stevens. Let’s see you get up there and sing!”
Erik challenged her with a single brow raised and a slight smirk. He snatched the mic from her hand, brought it to his lips, and leaned in towards her face.
“Watch how I outdo you.”
Emoni folded her arms sassily with a scowl and a smirk. Erik slipped past her and to that stage. She was about to witness Erik Stevens singing. She needed to record this. While he searched for a song, Emoni rushed to retrieve her phone. She made it back in time when a song she recognized started playing. When she realized what it was her eyes lit up and she started giggling.
Yeahhh yeah—yeahhhhh!!!!
Girl, I wish that I could spend time with you each and every day
Playing all my love and emotions that's the thing that's got me open
And I don't know what it takes to let you know you're my girl
To let you know you're my baby
And even when they say we won't stay around
If they only knew that we were meant to be together
Forever and ever whatever there's no better thing
Me and you girl, that's why I write you love letters saying!!!
I like the way you look at me
I like the time we spend, baby
I like what we have grown to be
I like it, girl, don't you know I like it
I like the way you look at me
I like the time we spend, baby
I like what we have grown to be
I like it, girl, don't you know I like it…
Erik sang to his heart’s desire with his eyes closed and a hand to chest. He knew all the words without even looking at the screen. A true Millennial. He had all the black people in the room jamming. Emoni Could only imagine a twelve–year–old Erik singing to this and writing love letters.
Sometimes I want to be the one you be checking for, can I get a second for me
Me and you to be alone tell me if you think it's wrong
Love is nothing but the time it takes you to say I'm on your mind
Let me tell you I'm always there, oh yeah
Let's get a little time away, go to the movies on a Saturday
Meet me at the finish line so I can tell you one more time
Girl, you know I'm not scared to let you say that…
Erik was down on his knees singing to Emoni! She was stunned. Everyone made too much noise, almost drowning out Erik’s singing.
I like the way you look at me
I like the time we spend, baby
I like what we have grown to be
I like it, girl, don't you know I like it
I like the way you look at me
I like the time we spend, baby
I like what we have grown to be
I like it, girl, don't you know I like it!!!
He dropped the mic and threw his hands up while the room erupted with applause. This man could do no wrong. He left the stage and walked up to Emoni. Erik grabbed her chin and pressed his lips into hers. They tongued each other down, both unable to contain their laughter. They returned to their seats while the next person took the stage. Emoni fanned herself while staring at Erik.
———
“What did you mean by different?”
They were both seated on top of the front of his sports car sharing French fries from In-N-Out and staring up at the crescent moon. They needed to eat something to soak up the alcohol.
“You have a different aura about you when you’re less wound up and tense, Emoni. I’ve awakened something in you that’s been locked away far too long. I’m sorry you had to feel like you needed to tuck some of the best parts of yourself away because of that stupid nigga. I see your potential, even beyond your beauty. I always have.”
Emoni tucked her chin and blinked away tears. She hated being so vulnerable. It was definitely the drinks. She gathered enough courage to look at him again.
“Thank you,” She gave him a warm smile, "You’re the only man to ever see me as more than just my physical appearance. You challenge me and your cleverness and natural born leadership turns me on more than that pretty face and those plump lips of yours. And don’t stare at me like that, Stevens, I just might leave a wet spot on this car…”
He sat up straighter, encouraged by the fact that she'd taken that much effort to pay attention to him.
“…When you laugh with true sincerity it sounds nice, you have impeccable table manners, are well organized, and you smell rather pleasant on a regular basis." She counted them off once more and then nodded, satisfied. “There, we're done.”
All of her compliments were rather touching, honestly, but one in particular grabbed his attention.
“It's Wakandan. Custom.”
She blinked. "What is?"
“You said I smell rather pleasant. It's my cologne. It comes from Wakanda, and is tailored so that everyone smells whatever they most desire from me,” he explained, hopping off his car and approaching her side. She looked ready to melt by the time he'd bent down in front of her and leaned over her, putting his neck near her nose. “What do you smell?”
Her warm breath panting against his neck sent electric tingles down his spine.
A beat later, she had her nose pressed against the lee of his throat and was taking deep, drawing breaths in and sighing in pleasure on the exhale. When she moaned in longing, Erik thought he'd never heard a more desirable sound, and his body reacted by going hard and tight. "What do you smell, my princess?" he coaxed, placing his mouth next to her ear, caressing the delicate skin with his soft lips. “Tell me,” he whispered, in a dark, enticing tone.
She began to pant, and her hands crept of their own accord to grip his shoulders. With a light pressure, she dug her nails into his skin.
His heart began to pound hard in his chest.
“Sandalwood, cinder ash, wine, and…red roses.”
Ghosting his lips up the side of her throat, he sighed, pleased by her imagination. “Beautiful. That's your idea of love-making, Daniels. How you see it…with me.”
“Hmm?" she asked, slowly coming back into herself, pulling away from his collar. Her grip on his arms eased up. "Love-making? With you?”
Erik wanted to set a sultry tone that would linger with her thoughts after this round was over.
“The scent is meant to evoke your passion and trigger your unconscious desires for me,” he explained in a soft murmur. “Black satin sheets and silver moonlight…you want me to dominate you, but you want it done seductively at first then rough. A warm fire and wine…you want things between us to burn slowly and smolder before we lose all control and overindulge in each other.”
“…I haven't been able to unwind in, well, a long time.”
Emoni was embarrassed to admit.
“That's because you play too little and work too hard,” Erik agreed.
“I can't help it,” she breathed a frustrated sigh. “There's always so much to do, and it's hardwired into me to get it all done!”
“As your boss, I command you to ease your mind. You can loosen up a little," he tried to sooth her. “Just forget the world outside for now. Relax and enjoy this.”
He gently placed his lips over the curve of her neck and shoulder, leaving small, barely-there kisses as he went. With a quick swipe, he touched his tongue to her warm skin. She was powdered with honey dust, a delicious treat he hadn't expected, and which explained how her skin sparkled under the light. Underneath it though, she tasted as if she'd just stepped out of the ocean.
The flavour had his chest going tight and sent his dick straining for its freedom.
Mine.
If anything could have confirmed for him the truth of what his heart and body had been telling him for years, that right there had done it.
“Tell me something you’ve always wanted to do but you never did out of fear.”
Emoni pondered.
“Uhm…oh! I’ve always wanted a belly ring but I’m too scared to get it. It’s such a sexy piercing, you know?”
“Hmm, I like belly piercings. You should do it.”
“Oh, no. I think I’m good.”
“Emoni, c’mon, ma. You could get one tonight.”
“Tonight?!” Emoni looked up at Erik with wide eyes.
“Okay, how about this,” Erik ate the last fry, chewing it and swallowing before he spoke again, “If you agree to get your belly button pierced, I’ll get a tattoo. Whatever you want.”
“…whatever I want?” Emoni pointed to herself.
That didn’t sound too bad. She loved the idea of deciding what Erik should get tatted on him.
“Yes. Whatever you choose, Baby girl.”
“Okay. Fuck it. Let’s do it.”
Erik grinned at her before reaching out to grab her hand. He walked her towards the passenger side and helped her in before sliding across the car to his side, causing Emoni to laugh.
Drunken nights with the Prince of Wakanda was absolutely glorious.
———
They stepped inside of a parlor and was greeted at the front by a receptionist. Erik inquired about piercings and a tattoo and luckily they had artists on staff that evening. Emoni was allowed to chose what ring she wanted to decorate her navel. She wanted to find the cheapest option since Erik was the one paying for the service.
“This one looks okay.”
It was a simple piercing. Nothing too flattering. Erik frowned slightly.
“I don’t really like that one. Are you sure?”
“I—I don’t want to get something expensive, Erik.”
“This one looks really nice. Very sexy…”
“What?! This is too much—”
Erik gave her a look, “Moni. Stop it. I’m treating you.”
Emoni rolled her eyes, “So, you’d buy me something like this?”
Erik pointed to a dangling belly button ring with 14K white gold diamonds. Emoni gawked at him.
“Erik…that costs 2700 dollars…”
“Okay, we’ll get that one then—”
“I MEAN…you’re offering…”
The receptionist giggled.
“You’re a trip. Just admit you want me to spoil you.”
An impish glint appeared in her gaze, followed by a very wicked, sultry smirk. "You’re going to spoil me, Stevens.”
Erik blinked in astonished exasperation.
"…Beautiful," he murmured, moving in to feast upon her luscious mouth. "You're so fucking beautiful, Daniels." He groaned, losing himself in the singe of his blood from her touch and flavor.
“We’ll take this one,” Erik pointed to the expensive piercing through the glass.
The receptionist retrieved the belly ring and Erik whipped out his wallet to pay for everything. Afterwards, they sat down in the lobby until they were serviced.
The artist is from New Orleans. Emoni could make out the inspiration from The Big Easy. Anxiously fidgeting, she looked around, admiring the photos and art. Erik stroked her back to calm her down.
“What was in those drinks? I can’t believe I’m about to do this shit—”
“Ready?”
A heavily tatted Asian woman with hot pink hair walked out to greet them. Erik and Emoni stood up and he grabbed her hand as they followed the woman towards the back of the shop. She was led over to a table for her to lay back on. Emoni spotted the tools she planned to use and almost freaked out if it wasn’t for Erik calming her down.
“My name is Suzie. I’ll be taking care of your piercing. Beni, the shop owner, he’ll do your tattoo. Did you read over the paperwork thoroughly?”
“Yes,” Emoni gave Suzie a nervous smile, “Sorry, this has me feeling nervous.”
“It’s alright. Believe it or not, belly button piercings are relatively painless when you’re relaxed. Too much anxiousness can make it uncomfortable. It’s important to stay calm. I mean, you definitely should because there are risks. Let’s take a look at your navel…”
Emoni went to lay on her back on the table and she remembered that her underwear was no longer in her possession. With wide eyes, she glanced over at Erik and they both burst out into a fit of laughter. Suzie watched the exchange with confusion and a smirk on her face.
“So…I’m not wearing any panties. Is there something I could cover up with?”
“Oh! Sure,” Suzie giggles, “I have a pad I can place over you.”
Suzie went to grab a pad and Emoni lifted her dress up to her chest. Erik’s eyes raked over her exposed flesh. He couldn’t wait to have her. All of her.
Suzie draped the pad across her, placed new gloves on her hands, and began sanitizing the area thoroughly. Emoni glanced over at Erik and he gave her an encouraging nod with two thumbs up. Suzie used a surgical marker to mark where she’d pierce. This was a good chance for Emoni to make sure the piercing location is where she wanted it to be.
The moment of truth.
“Breathe in…”
Emoni inhaled and Suzie pierced the area.
“Breathe out…”
She exhaled a shaky breath.
“That wasn’t so bad, was it?” Suzie asked.
“No, actually,” Emoni chuckled, “it was quick I could barely register the pain.”
“Good. Now, there will be some discomfort. Be careful with certain garments. Use a mild, fragrance-free soap or saline solution to gently clean the area around the piercing. You can also try a saltwater mixture of half a teaspoon of sea salt per cup of water to remove dried secretions. Avoid twisting or rotating the jewelry while cleaning, as this can cause irritation and introduce bacteria. Rinse the area thoroughly and pat dry with a lint-free cloth or clean, disposable paper towel. Don't rub the area dry. You can also soak the area in a sterile saline solution for 5–10 minutes daily. Don't use alcohol, hydrogen peroxide, bacitracin, or other ointments, as these can slow healing or irritate the area. Any questions?”
That was a lot of information at once, but Emoni understands what she needed to do. She was given a bag filled with items to start her cleaning process since she didn’t have anything handy until she got home.
“I think I’m good. Thank you.”
“You’re welcome. It looks good on you. If you guys want, you can head back to Beni.”
“Thanks,” Erik helped Emoni off the table. They both admired her new body jewelry in a mirror before exiting. They entered the next room and it was dimly lit with a reclining leather chair. Beni had just finished setting up what he needed and then he looked up at the pair with his pure hazel eyes. He stood at 5’7 with thick curly brown hair and tattoos covering his entire body. He shook Erik’s hand first and then Emoni’s.
“I’m Beni. So, what are we looking to do?”
Erik pointed to Emoni, “She’s deciding tonight.”
Emoni smiled brightly, “What’s your pain tolerance?”
Erik cocked his head and smirked at her before lifting his dress shirt, revealing tiny raised scars, “Emoni…really?”
“Jesus, my brother,” Beni stared in disbelief, “scarification?”
“Yeah. So to answer your question, baby girl, I have a very high tolerance.”
Emoni hadn’t seen Erik shirtless in years. She was rendered speechless. Erik wanted to know what she was thinking, but that could wait until they were alone. For now, it was time for a tattoo.
“Snap out of it, gorgeous. What do you have in mind for me?”
Emoni blinked away from him and looked at Beni, “Uhm…my name. Get my name tatted.”
“Simple. That okay with you?”
Erik gave a half shrug, “Fine with me. Where do you want your name?”
Emoni couldn’t tear her eyes away from his body. She wanted to feel the raised bumps against her fingertips. Skimming each one like braille. It was so fascinating and sexy at the same time. And don’t even get her started on his muscles—
“Princess?”
“Oh—uhhh—right bellow the V-cut,” She pointed to the area while looking at the physical display of hard work in the gym and discipline in the kitchen. It was his lower right side, only visible if he were naked. Discrete.
Imagine sucking his dick and staring at your name inked into his flesh, Emoni thought.
“You’re so naughty. I know exactly why you want it there,” Erik chuckled, “Fine with me. Let’s get to it.”
Erik made himself comfortable and Emoni sat on a stool at his side. Beni placed the transfer paper onto Erik’s skin and afterwards he began tattooing.
“Tickles a little,” Erik smirked with his eyes closed.
It took about thirty minutes and when Beni finished, he let Erik take a look.
“The best decision I’ve ever made. Permanent and meaningful.”
Erik tugged on Emoni’s hand, drawing her closer and crashing his lips against hers. They tongue kissed ferociously and Erik’s hand made its way between her legs again, stroking her pussy lips. Emoni whimpered into his mouth and held onto him tight, trembling from head to toe even in the aftershocks. Finally, when the sensation became too much, she took her hand from his shoulder, smoothing it down his arm, and silently requested he remove his hand from between her legs before she made a mess. He complied easily, refusing to break off from the kiss quite yet, however. Wanting more…
“Not here,” Emoni gave Beni a look but he was too busy cleaning, probably used to this.
Erik groaned in disappointment.
Pulling away reluctantly, he looked up at her. There was desire in her eyes. Her quaking hand was still holding onto his wrist and she was struggling to regain control. All he did was stroke her outer lips. Obdurate, steadfast, tenacious Emoni Davis had finally let her barrier down. With shimmering chocolate orbs for eyes, and candied lips, she looked positively edible… and scared half to death.
