I know, I know. "Girl, where the hell have you been?!"
Is probably what most of you were wondering and it's an apt question lmao I did not expect to stop writing out of the blue. I had full intentions on finishing all works in progress and doing a farewell the right way. I swear 👆🏽However 2024 raked me over the coals and I really had to look inward.
In 2025, I found love and myself more present in my life than I had been in a really long time. I have been writing on this blog since 2013 (before it even had this name, IYKYK). I've seen the writing community grow, change, shift, and ebb over the years. I'm so happy to have been a part of what a lot of people consider the "golden years" and even the "revitalization". One thing has always been a constant through it all, you the readers 💐
Y'all have helped me become a better writer full stop. From laughs, tears, and in between your comments have always meant the world to me. I appreciate anyone who has ever left me a kind word. For without the reader, where would we all be? THANK YOU.
To fellow writers, y'all ladies ARE THE BEST💖💖💖! Your talent uplifts even when it feels like your being ignored. Don't ever stop writing or creating, we need your work! The support between writers on here is all a girl could dream of 🥹 I plan on catching up on everyone's stories and even finding new ones in the future.
As for now, I'm keeping both feet planted in the present and enjoying life as it comes in these continuing unprecedented times. I hope you all continue to enjoy my work because it was written for YOU. I can't say I'll be gone forever (because never say never right?) However, it does feel like the end of an era for me. I love you all, deeply, truly, and more than I know how to express at the moment because this post wasn't planned. I popped on here for what was supposed to be a second and then felt compelled to say something LOL
Not to be that person but are you still continuing with the metamorphosis story? It’s so beautifully written and I reread it often
Thank you so much!!
The true answer is Yes and No.
I have been rewriting it for a secret project (that i will give updates on when I can) but because of that I won’t be continuing it on Tumblr.
I appreciate everyone who showed this story love because as I rewrite it, I realize that I was processing my grief at the time. Jamila holds a special place in my heart 🧡
It’s been three years since the Wilson brother’s have been home to celebrate Christmas. However, this year is also their little sister’s, sixteenth birthday. Kayla is the family’s miracle baby and disappointing her won’t fly. Though built up tension keeps them on edge, it’s the women in their lives who remind them what family is all about.
Today was one of those days where I just wanted to be laid up underneath my girl. Ashing the blunt I had been smoking, I grabbed my phone and headed inside where she was. If someone would have told me five years ago that I would have fallen in love with my best friend slash next door neighbor then I would have laughed in their face. However right now, I could not imagine my days without her. So I went to go seek out my peace.
She was currently in my living room surrounded by flashcards. Glasses sat in her hair instead of on her face as she jotted down notes in the notebook lying next to her.
“Take a break,” I said, slipping her pen from her fingers.
“Hey,” she squealed as I tossed her over my shoulders and began walking towards the bedroom. “Babe, what are you doing?”
“Mandatory cuddle break which will be followed by a snack break because I’m hungry,” I said, playfully slapping her ass before depositing her onto my king sized bed.
Maaaaan listen. Forget that food! 🤣🤣🤣 I knew better than to come in one of YOUR fics at early o'clocks in the morning. You always got me feelin’ or feinin’ or both!! The conversation in this sucked me right in. I LOVE your writing.
In fact, let me go find my man and get me some snuggles! You did this.
He was the most powerful shapeshifter the world had seen in a millennium and I hated his ass. It wasn’t hard to do being that he was an egotistical-power-hungry-dunce who had been promised to me before I was even born. Our two bloodlines united would create the ultimate other being, one neither fae or shapeshifters or humans had ever seen the likes of. The problem? I couldn’t stand to be near his ass. So I spent the better part of the last five hundred years or so hopping from one continent to the other whenever his power got too close. The last few years I hadn’t felt it at all holed up in my Brooklyn loft which allowed me to get comfortable. It wasn’t until my lights began to flicker and my magic began to hum underneath my skin that I realized what a mistake that was.
Thank you thank you so much for putting metamorphosis back 🙏🏾🩷 I know you are taking a break but I have to say your writing has truly moved me! The way you are able to express feelings that have been locked deep inside of my heart in your stories is absolutely breathtaking!
Aww 🥹 thank you so much for enjoying them so much! It means the world to me that you're able to relate to them and love these characters as much as I do. I truly appreciate you sending this 🧡💖
Every third Thursday of the month she would meet him in the penthouse suite he preferred on Madison Avenue that overlooked midtown. She always arrived first, her office only being a few stops away on the E-Train though he consistently sent a car for her. This allowed her the time to unwind, take a much needed shower to destress, and most importantly, to get herself ready for his arrival. Anything she could think of needing was kept in stock, from make-up to under clothes and the things in between. With him, needing was never a concern because her needs were met exceptionally. So she took great care in lathering her body in the jasmine scent he favored, curling her auburn strands before sweeping them in an updo that left a few wispy pieces framing her face and slipping into what she was sure to have him drooling. She was finishing the the last touches at the vanity he purchased for her when she looked up to see him in the reflection of the mirror.
He nodded his head in appreciation, lips slightly pursed as he drank in the way the tri-star diamond bezel body chain peaking from beneath the teal lace baby doll robe custom made from a chantilly boutique in the heart of the Paris shopping district complimented her butterscotch complexion. After a few moments, a bashful smile from her nude painted lips and a crook of his finger, she rises.
Sitting inside of the ever bright lounge area of Tropic, the pair ogle at each other from across the table.
Both equally surprised on how good the other looks, outside of work.
“You look really pretty this evening.” Isaiah breaks the anxiety-driven silence, Mya’s brown eyes lift towards him.
“Thank you. You look really handsome, yourself.” She replies, smoothing her clammy hands over her dress.
With autumn quickly approaching and the sun's warmth wearing off, Mya decided to wear her favorite mustard toned mini dress, one last time.
Coincidentally, Isaiah's button down almost matched the color of her hair, but on a toned down level.
“Thank you for the flower, by the way.” She says as she fiddles with the orange tulip in her lap.
“My pleasure. I didn’t know if you liked tulips or not.”
“They’re actually my favorite flower, so you’re doing great,” she laughs.
His brows raise. “Are they really?”
“Yeah!” she exclaims, feeling her nerves subside, just enough for her to relax. “I’ve loved ‘em ever since I was a kid.”
“Mind if I pat myself on the back?” He jokes, his infectious smile coming out to play.
She giggles, sipping on her spiked lemonade.
“So, tell me about yourself, Isaiah.”
“What do you wanna know, Miss Mya?”
“I’ll take anything you’re willing to share with me.” She truthfully responds.
“Well,” he clears his throat, “I’ve been here for almost ten years. I moved to Charlotte for a job opportunity, but I didn’t end up getting it. So, I slept on my cousin’s couch, until I found an apartment and a new plan,” he laughs to himself, “and I landed in front of Abstraction. Place is really cool, I’ll admit.”
“Yeah, it is. Do you mind me asking how rough it was to go through that? Especially not having a place of your own?”
“It was hell, man. Absolutely. I felt like I was starting all over, again. But, I grew up in a home where you had to fight for what you wanted, so I did just that.” He smiles, but she can see the pain flicker in his eyes.
“Well, I’m glad you made it out of that. That says a lot about your character.”
“Good things?” He asks with a grin.
“Good things, yes.” She mirrors his expression.
His eyes wander around the wide area, internally grateful that the place was as great as he heard it would be.
“This place is a whole lot nicer than I thought it would be,” he remarks, drinking his own bourbon sour.
“I was just about to say, this place is so cute! They’ve even got a disco ball out there.” She points towards the dance floor.
“Let’s get out there and dance, at some point. Yeah?”
Feeling the butterflies come back, she chews on her lip.
“Yeah. I’d like that.”
“Me too.” He smiles.
“Now, it’s your turn. What do I get to know about you, besides the fact that you’re as pretty as you are?” He leans forward.
“I think your mission is to make my cheeks fall by the end of this date. Cut it out,” she laughs.
Holding a hand up in defeat, he bows out. “I quit, but I'm listening.”
“Well, I’m as boring as they come. Honestly. I’ve got an older sister. She’s a pain in the ass, but the girl can cook like our grandma, so we keep her around.”
Isaiah laughs, making Mya do the same.
“Seriously! I wanna kill her, sometimes… but then she makes apple pie and I like her again. Siblings are weird. Do you have any?”
“Two. Older sister and younger brother. Both, equally a pain in my ass, as well.”
“Oh, not the middle child!” she frowns, coyly reaching across the table for his hand. “Please don’t tell me that you guys actually get overlooked.”
“No, we don’t get overlooked,” he covers her hand with his own, patting the back of it. “If anything, we’d be the ones that you remember more.” His eyes flash to hers
Her heart thuds in her chest as she reaches for her drink, taking another sip.
“But, back to you. I’ve always been curious about something, but I don’t know how to ask you without it sounding… invasive.”
“Try me.”
“How often do you change the color of your hair?”
“That’s actually one of my favorite questions to answer,” she claps her hands, “I’m a situational type of person, when it comes to dying my hair.”
“Meaning?”
“I either need a reason to dye it or I’ll just dye it for no reason at all, other than the fact that I’m bored. It’s not like every four months or anything healthy. It’s more like every other month.” He nods at her explanation.
“How long does it take you?”
“It depends on what color I’m dying it.” She giggles.
“If you were dying it purple?” He quizzes.
“Oh! Let’s see,” she stares up at the starred ceiling, her thoughts aligning. “Since my hair is red, I could probably get away with just dumping purple dye on top of it, with some assistance of course. It’ll take me, maybe, an hour or so.”
“Impressive. What about green?”
“You know, I’ve never tried anything that wild, besides pink and that ended in a catastrophe. I wore scarves for two months.” She shakes her head.
“I’m sure it still looked great.”
“No, it was really bad. Mercedes and Taylor gave me hell for weeks!”
“Friends,” he sighs. “They push those buttons, like no one else.”
“Make you wanna commit crimes,”
His laugh rang through her ears at a louder level. “You wanna do jail time?”
“My motto is no face, no case. If they can’t identify me, they can’t catch me.” She shrugs.
Amused, he takes another swig of his drink. “That’s funny.”
“Thank you. I keep my comedic card on standby,” she jokes, twiddling her thumbs underneath the table.
“So, you got friends that get on your nerves, too, huh?” She asks.
“Oh, yeah,” he nods. “Jane— you know her, right?”
“Short hair? Nose ring? Very sarcastic?”
“Yeah, that’s her,” he grins, “she’s a handful. But, she was the first person that I met, when I got to Abstraction. She, very roughly, took me under her wing and we’ve been cool, ever since.”
“She’s very sweet, but she don’t take no shit.” She laughs, him agreeing all the same.
“That’s why I stick by her. Don’t get me wrong, I can handle my own, but it’s funny when you’ve got a mini fighter tryna handle it for you.”
“She fights you too, doesn’t she?”
“She fights everyone.” He stresses, making her laugh, once more.
“A brash friend is needed, ya know?”
“I’ll drink to that.”
He holds his glass up, as she does the same. The cliché clinking of their glasses makes her giddy, as well as the alcohol that’s flowing through her bloodstream.
“I’m such a lightweight, I should probably stop now.” She says, finishing off her drink. He gives her an incredulous look as she does so.
Reaching out for her hand as he stands from the table, Isaiah leads her down the short steps to the dance floor.
“Let's go dance, pretty.”
Jonz in my bonz by D’Angelo is the soundtrack to their first dance.
“Man, I ain’t heard this song in years,” he remarks, Wrapping his arm around her waist.
“I actually just added this to my playlist, a few days ago.” She rests her hands on his broad shoulders, fighting the urge to squeeze.
“A woman with taste! How refreshing.”
The sultry beat captures their hips, pulling them closer to one another.
She hums in response, her eyes linger on his face. “I’ve wanted to tell you this, since the day you saved me from falling on my face… you smell so good.”
Looking down at her, his grin spreads across his cheeks. “Thank you,” he leans down to her ear, talking over the music, “you always smell good.”
A chill rushes up her spine at him being so close to her, all the while giving her compliments.
“Always?”
Still close to her ear, he continues to speak. “Yeah… kinda smells like sandalwood.”
“It is!” she playfully hits his chest, slyly copping a feel of how hard it is. “You’ve got a good nose on you, sir.”
He hums a laugh, returning to his upright position.
What I wouldn't do to get next to the things that were meant fo’ me..
Getting completely lost in the music, Isaiah's hands sit dangerously low on his backside, seconds away from copping a feel of his own.
Their eyes on each other, as they continue to sway.
The song fades into another smooth jam, giving him the courage to spin her around in his hold, smiling at her rosy cheeks.
“Havin’ fun?” He asks.
“So much fun,” she hums. “I hope you are, too.”
“Most fun I’ve had in a while.”
“A while? We gotta get you out, more.” She states.
“Yes ma’am.” He agrees.
Continuing to dance the evening away, the pair end up back at her doorstep.
“I had fun tonight.”
“Yeah, me too.”
Their fingers intertwined, the smiles on their faces are both pure, and slightly blitzed.
“Thank you, again, for allowing me to show you a good time.”
“Of course. It’s been a minute since I let my hair down.” She giggles.
“Let’s do it again, some time?”
She nods, her eyes falling to his lips.
“I’d like that.”
Having the same thought on his brain, he leans down to press his lips against hers.
A wave of relief washing over him as she kisses him back.
Mya innocently leans into him as he takes her breath away, almost pouting as he begins to pull away.
“I’m not gonna lie… I’ve been wanting to do that, since the first day I saw you.” Isaiah admits, their eyes back on each other.
“I’ve wanted you to do that, since the first day I saw you.” She breathily laughs.
Unlocking her door, they share one more kiss before departing for the evening.
“Goodnight, pretty.”
“Goodnight, pretty.”
Finally able to let out her squeal behind the closed door, she rushes to call her friends.
As the call connects, the three friends begin to greet one another, as if they haven’t seen each other in ages.
“How was your date with mister swole arms?” Taylor asks as Mercedes snickers.
“You two,” she shakes her head. “The date was great. He was such a gentleman, ugh! The drinks were great, the music was great, and he was great. I’ve never had a conversation with a man that didn’t end in me throwing a drink in his face.”
“Girl, we’ve all been there!” Mercedes laughs.
“What did y’all talk about?”
“Things.” She smirks.
“Like???” They ask in unison, making her laugh.
“Ya know, we just talked about any and everything, honestly. He’s very intelligent, and I’ve known that from working alongside him, but to just sit and listen to him was amazing.” She smiles, like she’s still on their date.
“Ew, you’re blushing!”
“You look flustered, as well. Care to tell us why?”
“We kissed.”
Their jaws drop collectively.
“That’s why you're smiling like that!” Taylor laughs.
“That god of a man put his lips on you???” Mercedes asks, her eyes wide.
She nods, the smirk never leaving her lips.
“Were they soft?” Taylor asks.
“Mmhm. Rose petal soft.”
“Mm!” Taylor exclaims.
“Was there tongue involved??” Mercedes asks.
“It was our first date, girl! No, there was no tongue.”
Her incredulous expression didn’t sway her brash best friend from being any less than such.
“You know you wanted him to tongue you down, shut up!” Taylor laughs.
“That’s besides the point,” she playfully rolls her eyes. “If y’all are done, I’d like to get in my bed now.”
“Ooh, testy!”
“We just wanted to see how you and strong arms hit it off, heffa. We’ll get out of your hair.”
“I’ll catch up with y’all, tomorrow.”
They say their goodbyes and Mya slips out of her dress and pulls on her pjs, face planting into her soft sheets.
A notification hits her phone, causing her to lift her head up and check it.
Taylor 🤎
Have sweet dreams about ol broad arms for us! Goodnight 😂
“So, how was the date?” Jane asks, spinning around in Isaiah's office chair, while he stands a foot away from her, shaking his head.
“Jane. Get out of my chair.”
“I don't wanna! Tell me about your pretty girlfriend!” She faux whines, bringing her spinning to a stop.
“Quit being a child, please. I’ll tell you about the date if you just get up.” He repeats.
Huffing, she stands to her feet and moves away from the comfy computer chair, to the blue club chair on the other side of the desk.
“I leave for one second and you start treatin’ my chair like a damn merry-go-round, Jane? Really?” The annoyed crease in his forehead makes her laugh.
“It’s not broken, Isaiah.”
“That’s not the point, Jane.”
“Okay!” she sighs. “ Are you gonna tell me what happened now or are you gonna continue being dramatic over a chair?”
“I got a mind to kick you out, but I’ll refrain.” He briefly closes his eyes, before proceeding with the much awaited news.
“Let’s see, after I left your house, I went to Fannah’s Florals and bought a tulip— turns out, they’re her favorite flower. I know, I’m good. Uh…” Jane bursts into laughter, undoubtedly making him join.
“You’re hilarious, man!” She giggles.
“I did good, though, Doe! Gimme my props.”
“You did good, bud. You did good.”
“Thank you!” he laughs. “We went to Tropic, it was very nice. The music was great, the drinks were great and man…she looked amazing.” He sighs, going into a dreamy tangent.
“Yeah?” Jane cheeses, sitting her chin in her palms. “What did she wear?”
“She had on this mini dress, it was kinda orange and yellow, at the same time.”
“That’s what the kids call mustard.”
“Maybe, honey mustard. But, it looked beautiful on her, nonetheless.” He digresses. “Her hair was all done up.”
“Did she think you looked as dreamy as you thought she looked?”
“I don’t know if dreamy is the word, but she said I looked handsome. So, you did good, friend.”
She bows from her seated position, making him chuckle and shake his head.
“Yay! So, was the conversation good?”
“It was. We’ve had brief conversations in passing, so I’ve always kind of known this about her, but she’s sweet. I just felt comfortable enough to tell her anything. We related on a couple of things, which made it even easier, cause my nerves were shot.”
“I’ve never seen you that nervous, before.” Jane agrees.
“It normally doesn’t happen.”
“You really like her!” She coos, the urge to throw her out comes back, tenfold.
Sighing, he smiles. “Yeah, she’s great. We danced for what seemed like an eternity. Just lost in the moment.. her scent is still fresh in my brain.” He laughs to himself.
“She seems like a vanilla kinda girl.” Jane comments.
He shakes his head. “Sandalwood.”
Her brows raise. “Ooh, the good shit!”
“Indeed.”
“She’s got good taste.”
“I remember telling her that, at least twice, last night.”
“How’d you bring the evening to a close?” She asks.
“I walked her to her door, we agreed to go out again, and I kissed her, goodnight.” He casually says.
Jane’s eyes grow wide. “You kissed her?? Oh my gosh! How’d that happen?”
“It honestly just happened,” he laughs. “I could tell that she was thinking about it as much as I was, and I went with my gut, and there we were.”
“Well, gimme the juicy details!”
“It wasn’t that kind of kiss, doe. It was sweet and simple. Gentle, even. She’s got soft lips.”
“When’s the wedding?”
“Get out,” he points towards the door, causing her obnoxious laugh to ring out, yet again.
Bumping into one another in the common area, Isaiah and Mya shyly glance at each other.
“Hey, pretty.” He greets.
“Hey,” she waves, smiling. “How are you?”
“Better, now.”
“Is that so?”
“Yeah, you got a way of brightenin’ up the room when you step in.” He admits, stuffing his hands in his pockets.
“You’re a very sweet man.”
“And, you’re a very sweet woman.”
“So,” she begins, tossing her coffee cup in the trash. “I was thinking that I could plan our next date.”
“Yeah?” amusement colors his tone. “What did you have in mind?”
“Well, it’s a surprise—- which is code for, I haven’t figured it all out yet.”
They share a laugh.
“You’re funny.” He compliments.
“I’ve been told.” Their eyes linger on each other, an awkward sway taking over their bones.
“I know this ain’t the most appropriate time… but I feel like kissing you, again.” He admits.
Her palms turn sweaty at his confession. “Well, I can um,” she leans in to kiss his cheek.
“Just cause this ain’t the most appropriate time.” She responds. “Catch me a little later, though.” A grin takes over his lips.
His brows slightly raise. “A little later, it is.”
Sitting around the round table, a select group of computer techs, including Isaiah and his smitten coworker, sit with Savannah for a meeting.
“Alright, so I’ve brought y’all here, because our annual Creative Edge seminar is coming up and y’all have been invited to attend the Gold Ball!” she excitedly grabs the stack of golden envelopes from her binder.
“What?”
“Really??”
“Thee Gold Ball??”
“Yeah!” Savannah laughs, holding up the envelopes. “I got ‘em all right here!”
“Oh my gosh,” Mya cups her face in shock.
“Hard work does pay off,” Isaiah hums to himself. The creative kid inside of him, jumping for joy.
Everyone opens their official invitation, as Savannah begins to give them the details.
“I’m very proud of you guys. You’ve all worked very hard to get here.” She smiles at the group, while they continue to process the news.
“The seminar is November the fifteenth and the sixteenth, and the Gold Ball is that night. The times are posted on the invitation, as well as the dress code for the ball. Focus on networking and getting your name out there, the rest will fall into place. More importantly, have fun. You guys deserve this.”
“Thank you!” the group graciously responds.
As the meeting ends and the small group files out, Mya stays behind to continue staring at her future in the form of a pretty white and gold letter.
“Wow,” she mumbles to herself.
“You didn’t think you’d get invited, either, huh?” Isaiah heads back to the table.
She briefly looks up at him, before looking back to the letter. “If I’m being honest. Not a chance.” She laughs.
“Why not?” He asks, sitting back down.
“Because.” She sighs. “This ball is for people that do more than just color code a system and make pretty signs.”
“That’s not all you do.” He says.
“And, how do you know that?”
“Because, you’re not the only one that leaves his work up on the computer.” He chuckles.
“Oh… I did?” She asks, embarrassment seeping into her tone.
“You did,” he gives a small smile.
"And your work is amazing, Mya. I feel like you know that, but you second guess yourself.”
“Hmph. I think you’re in the wrong field, ‘saiah. You sound like a therapist.” She cracks.
“I just want you to know that you deserve this. Maybe more than the rest of us.” His eyes wander over her face, a slight somber taking over her eyes as they connect to his.
“Thank you. But, I think that it’s you that deserves this more than the rest of us.” She smiles.
“I appreciate it.” He stands from his seat, once again. “I have to get back to my paperwork, but I’ll see you later, okay?”
She nods, her smile easing him.
“Alright.” Tapping the table, he heads out of the conference room.
Turning her attention back to the letter in her hand, she smiles.
It's them both stepping out already coordinating for me! One I felt Mya when she said keeping her older sister around because she cooks good lmfao (I love my sister down but that def is a plus) and I'm a middle child like Isaiah so I relate to him too. I really enjoyed them getting to know each other and asking questions that were more than standard but observational too like him wanting to know about why she dyes her hair often. Everything is intentional on both sides and that's how it's supposed to be! When they were dancing it felt like a scene in an indie movie, like very Love Jones with the mood lighting and D'Angelo playing. They really had the cutest date and come on both of them doing the recaps with their friends 😭 That's too real because same lmao I'm excited for this Gold Ball invite too because I know they about to show out as a unit.
“Well, at least you two are on a first name basis, now. Improvement!” Mercedes pokes Mya in her side. She swats at her friend’s hand in feigned annoyance.
The pair are seated on a park bench across from the office, munching on fruit before they have to clock in for the day.
“Girl, gon’ somewhere,” she says with a laugh, “We work together and that’s about it. He’s probably not even from here!” The aloof tone of her voice betrays her actual feelings.
“Ma’am, that accent is thicker than chunky peanut butter out the freezer. Of course he’s from here. Or at least near here! Plus, I seen him at the poetry spot downtown, he could be pretty decent,” she says casually, while chomping on a chunk of watermelon.
“And just what the hell are you doing at a poetry spot? Last book you read had a big cat on the front,” Mya jabs at her friend.
“First of all, fuck you,” she’s interrupted by Mya’s snort of a laugh. “Second of all, didn’t I tell you? I met my new boo down there,” she finishes with a shimmy of the shoulders.
“How many felonies does this one have?”
“I’m gonna let that one go ‘cause I’m in a good mood. And if you quit being a punk, you can snag yourself a man, too.”
“I’m not a punk. I’m just not in the market for a man right now.” She shrugs as Mercedes rolls her eyes.
“Chile, a lie don’t care who tell it. Ray Charles can see you want his ass.”
Mya can’t contain the burst of laughter that leaves her lips.
“Why would you say that??”
“I'm just sayin’!” Mercedes continues through her own laughter.
“I’m not ‘bout to play with you today,” she dabs the tears that formed at the corners of her eyes. Glancing at her phone, she notices she’s dangerously close to being late.
“Oh shit,” she pops up from her seat grabbing her things, “Savannah’ll have our heads if we're late again.”
“Please, Savannah loves us. She’ll fire that shiftless ass Colin before she fires you,” Mercedes responds as she gathers her things at a more leisurely pace.
“Either way it goes, I’m not tryna make a habit outta being late.” She says, as they make their way inside.
“Nice of y'all to join us,” none other than Savannah herself greets them both just as they punch their timecard in the lounge.
“Hey auntie!” Mercedes cheeses, before heading out.
“So, what lil’ boy done caught your attention and got you showing up late now?” Her boss teases.
It never fails to surprise her how nothing gets past her boss, not that he was the reason for her tardiness.
“Nobody. Only thing that has my attention is work,” she lies casually, trying to breeze by her and back towards the lobby.
“Hmm. You sure it’s not that handsome young tender with the strong arms that’s always breakin’ his neck to catch a glimpse at you?”
Her ears perk up at the new piece of information, and she deftly pivots on her heels.
“He does?” she responds a little too earnestly for her own liking. Clearing an imaginary blockage from her throat, she adjusts her tone.
“He does?” She repeats, cooler this time, as she tucks a freshly straightened, cherry red tendril of hair behind her ear, a nervous tick.
“Mhm.” The all-knowing smirk on her boss’ full lips makes Mya’s cheeks redden even further.
“All the time. I’m surprised he hasn’t asked you out yet. Must be shy like you. Lord knows if I wasn’t married and old enough to be his mama…” she trails off.
As if her poor cheeks couldn’t get any rosier.
“Alright! I’m gonna start workin’ now.” She starts to back her way out of the hall toward the printer room to save herself further embarrassment.
“Hey! You're coding, for the next hour. Grab the big stack of card stock from the back to refresh your signs, before you get started.”
Grabbing her tools for the day, she heads to the big printer in the middle room, closing the door behind her.
She’d taken it upon herself to color code the system, helping everyone navigate through it just a little easier, as well as replacing the faded, white company signs with brighter, more colorful ones.
Pulling up her stool, she gets started.
A knock sounds at the door, before Isaiah steps inside, heading towards the supply closet.
“Mornin’, didn’t mean to interrupt,” coming out with a stack of copy paper in hand, he looks up to see the pretty brown girl with bright red hair that’s had mind jumbled for the last few weeks or so.
She looks up from the screen and smiles. “Mornin’,” she responds, “I’m knee-deep in this screen, I didn’t even hear you come in.”
“S’alright. Just came to refill the printer.” He replies, gesturing towards the big contraption she was currently sitting in front of.
“Oh! Let me move out of the way, sorry.” He chuckles, watching her grab her laptop and work on her feet, before he moves in to refill the tray.
“It’s alright. What you workin’ on, today?” He asks, printing a few documents.
“Coding the system to make it easier for everybody. Then, I’ve gotta redo the signs, out front. Savannah’s finally letting me loose in here.” She giggles, typing away on her keyboard with one hand.
Gathering his paper, he moves out of her way. “Sounds like a project. Can I see?”
“Sure!” She sits her laptop down and shows him the screen as she types away.
“Our plans are in green, projects are in pink and tasks are in blue, now. Holidays are highlighted, as well employee birthdays. Ooh! I really loved doing that, because I get to choose different colors for that, as well.”
He hums a laugh. “This your avenue, yeah? Projects?”
“Projects can be fun,” she turns toward him. “Imagine if she let you use photoshop on the ads that you create? It would take them to the next level!”
“You’ve seen one of the ads I’ve done in photoshop?” He asks.
“Mhm. It was up on the main computer, the other day. I didn’t know it was yours, until I saw the little eye you placed in the corner.”
“Yeah,” he laughs. “It’s like my watermark, for now.”
“It’s cute. But, your ad was nice!”
“I appreciate that. Especially, coming from you.” She blushes, as he heads toward the door.
“See you later?” He asks, hope burning behind his brown eyes.
“See you later.” She nods, mirroring his smile, before they get back to work.
About an hour and a half later, all ten of her fingers are cramped to hell and her back is killing her, but she’s finally finished with her project.
Closing the door behind her, she sighs and heads towards her own office, bumping into Savannah.
“Oh, Mya! The system is running so smooth, now! And the signs look wonderful!” She praises.
“Thank you! I’m always happy to help!”
“So am I.” She smiles.
“What do you mean?”
“I may have put a bug in someone’s ear about someone.. you can thank me, later, sweetheart.”
“A…what? Savannah, what are you talking about?”
“Your secret admirer is about to become not so secret, anymore.”
Her heart begins to beat triple time.
“Oh, God… I think I’m having a stroke.”
“Oh,” Savannah starts laughing. “You are too much, girl! Just relax! I know he’s pretty, but he’s a sweet man who’s sweet on you!”
Isaiah conveniently walks down the hall, his sight set out for Mya.
His eyes light up as he spots her talking to their boss.
“Afternoon, ladies.” He greets. “Can I steal Mya away?”
“As long as you give her back,” Savannah pats his shoulder, before heading back down the hall.
“Hey,” she waves, that intoxicating cologne of his hitting her nose.
“Hey,” he smiles, stuffing his hands in his pockets. “I was kinda hoping that you would join me for lunch.. that is, if you didn’t already have anything planned, of course.”
The corners of her mouth lift into a smile. “Well, seeing as we like the same kind of food, I would love to join you for lunch. Let me just grab my wallet.”
She moves for her office door, until he speaks, again. “I was actually hoping that I could buy your lunch, as well.”
“You’re doin’ a lot of hoping, today.” The smile never leaves her lips.
“Looks like I’m doing a whole lot scorin’ today, too.” He humbly brags.
“Does this work for you, often?”
“I don’t know. This is the first time I’ve tried.” He laughs.
“So, where exactly are you from?” Mya asks, biting into her sandwich.
The pair had decided to head over to Panera for a quick lunch.
“I’m from Texas. Dallas, to be exact.” He replies.
“Ah. I told my friend that you weren’t from here, I knew it!” She giggles.
“How’d you tell?”
“Well, no offense… but, your accent is rather thick. They don’t really sound like that, down here, too fast.”
His smile takes over his entire face at her comment. “None taken. I’ve gotten that, a lot. I like the accents out here, though.”
“Well, at least y’all sound like you come from somewhere.” She rolls her eyes.
“What do you mean? You’re from here, ain’t you?”
“Yeah, but I don’t sound like it.” She frowns.
“Yes you do,” he snorts. “You got a lil twang.”
“You’re only sayin’ that.”
“Honest,” he holds his hands up. “You do. It’s subtle, but it’s there.” He assures.
“Really?” Her brows raise. He nods.
“Mhm. Don’t trip, pretty.” He says, popping a chip in his mouth. She blushes.
Catching the three minute warning on her phone, she begins to gather her trash.
“Almost time to head back?” He eyes her movement, reluctantly doing the same.
“Yeah,” she sighs, “rest of the day’s filled with paperwork.”
“Well, we can’t all be God’s favorite and color code the system in the mornings.” She laughs at the crack he takes at her.
“It’s not just about making it pretty, mister big arms.” She playfully rolls her eyes.
“My broadness distractin’ you, little lady?” He asks, amusement coloring his tone.
Yes. God, yes.
“We should head back.” She stands up from the table to toss her trash. His eyes travel to her derrière.
“Mm.” He remarks to himself, standing from the table to throw his own trash away, before they head back to the office.
Making plans to catch back up once the day was finally over, Mya sinks down in her chair.
Her phone begins to ring.
“Hey, mama,” she answers, turning her laptop back on.
“Hey, baby. You alright?”
“Yeah, I’m just ready for the workday to end. It started pretty great, though.”
“Yeah? What’s going up at Vannah’s that’s got you in the good spirits, besides the angel, herself?” Her mother speaks fondly of her beloved boss.
“She’s finally taken me up on my offer to brighten up the place!,” she cheeses like her mother could see her face. “I started color coding the system to make everything easier to navigate, because it was starting to give me a migraine! Nothing on this earth should ever be that dull.”
Her mother laughs. “You are something else. But, that’s amazing, sweetheart. I always knew you’d be able to showcase your talents.”
“Thanks for always believing in me.”
“Always. Now, who’s this boy that Mercedes was goin’ on about?”
Sighing aloud, she sits up in her chair. “I gotta call you back. We’ll talk about it later, I promise.”
“Is she in trouble?”
“She’s about to be. Love you.”
“Love you too, baby. Bye bye.”
Hanging up, she quickly facetimes Mercedes. “Look, I know you and my mama are cool and all, but why would you tell her about Isaiah?”
“Girl, I honestly just told her that you got a crush on somebody, like you always do! And she was like “is he cute?” And I was like “do you know your daughter? The men are always fine!” And she laughed and that was that.” She shrugs.
“You two are gonna give me grey hair.” Mya shakes her head, beginning to type away at her keyboard.
“Now, I know you FaceTimed me to spill somethin’, so please get on with it.” Mercedes laughs. Her infectious laughter grows as Mya turns her attention back to her best friend.
“Ooh, I knew it!”
“Cedes, be quiet,” Mya giggles,” he asked me to join him for lunch and offered to pay for it! So, we went to Panera and talked. He’s from Texas, by the way.” Mercedes’ mouth falls open.
“I was wrong??”
“You were! I told you, too!” She whisper yells. “He’s from the south, but it ain’t here.”
“Well, I’ll be damned. So, you got you a Dallas cowboy, then, huh?” She says, the look on her face makes Mya wanna hang up on her.
“I really don’t like you.” She tries to hold back the smirk.
“It’s okay! Cause, I really love you!” She cheeses. “And, that’s cute, seriously. He bought you lunch and made you fall in love!”
“I’m not in love!” She laughs.
“What was in that sandwich? Bacon?”
“Mercedes.” Mya calls, it falls on deaf ears.
“That bacon must’ve been extra crispy.”
“It was. Goodbye.”
“Ride ‘em, cowgirl!” She quickly hangs up, shaking her head.
“That girl is a mess.”
Grabbing her keys, she locks her office door behind herself and heads towards the front of the building to wait for Isaiah, like they’d planned.
“Yeah, she’s great.” He smiles, telling his friend and coworker, Jane, about Mya.
“I knew you two would hit it off. She’s been eyeing you for a while.”
“Well, she wasn’t alone.”
“Don’t I know it. You’ve talked my head about her for months, Isaiah.” She laughs, patting his shoulder.
“That’s what friends are for, right? Don’t I listen to you when you go on and on about uh, whatever his name is, this week?”
She rolls her eyes. “Tell your girlfriend to enjoy you, cause I’ll be killing you, soon.”
He laughs. “Don’t be me like that, Jane Doe. I’ll catch up with you later.” They hug and part ways.
He finds Mya with her head in her phone. He walks over, her eyes locking with his as he approaches her.
“Hey, pretty.” He greets, enjoying the view of her reddened cheeks as she twists her lips up.
“Hey, handsome.”
“Can I walk you to your car?” He offers.
“Sure.” She accepts, allowing him to lead the way, opening the door for her. She mentally checks manners off her list.
“Thank you, Isaiah.” She unlocks the driver side door.
“You’re more than welcome. Before I let you go, I’d like to ask you somethin’.”
She leans against the car door. “What’s up?”
“I been meanin’ to ask you, if you’d like to accompany me to this new spot, Friday?”
Completely taken aback that he was actually asking her out, her immediate yes jumped out, before she could contain herself. Their smiles are identical.
“I would love to. What kind of spot are we talkin’?”
“S’called Tropic. You know, one of those clubs with the disco lights, like we’re still in nineteen seventy-five and the drinks got them tiny umbrellas in ‘em.” He chuckles, rambling on as she dazedly stares at him.
“Sounds like fun.” She cheeses.
“It’s a date, then," grabbing her hand into his own, he softly caresses her skin. “I’m looking forward to it.”
“Me, too.” Her voice came out smaller than she liked. He doesn’t tease her about it. Kissing the back of her hand, he releases her. “I’ll see you tomorrow?”
“I’ll see you tomorrow.” She nods.
Waving goodbye, he heads to his own car, leaving her to slide inside of her own and squeal.
Mercedes is a trip lmfao cause one thing she gonna do is put ten on twenty. I’m screaming at Savannah being in on it too while also trying to help out. Isaiah not slick, he could’ve restocked that printer at any time he was tryna see his girl and I’m not mad. Like yes actually, come seek me out boo 😂 and I love that he does it in a tasteful way thats still mindful of the fact that they’re in a work environment. And then to ask her to lunch? Had me like 🥰 Swinging back to Mercedes not she be on the phone with Mya’s mom giving tea updates lmfao ma’am I will block you both 😭 I can’t wait for their first official date though, I know its gonna so cute!!
“Well, ain’t he sumn to look at,” Mercedes remarks, nudging Taylor’s arm.
“Mmhm.. hey, Mya! Get your mouth off the floor.”
Quickly closing her slightly gaped mouth, she glares at her pair of friends.
“Stop bein’ so loud!” she whisper-yells, picking a fry out her container as her eyes wander back to his handsome face.
“My bad.”
“Why don’t you just talk to him?” Mercedes asks.
“Cause. I hate rejection, and he’s so fine. I can’t risk it.” His eyes flicker in her direction, catching her stare.
She quickly looks in her friends’ direction to play it off. He chuckles to himself, the embarrassing blush on her cheeks, causing his adoration for her to skyrocket.
“How you know he don’t feel the same??”
“Ugh,” she covers her face, hiding the heat that’s rushing towards it.
“Why you blushin’? I miss somethin’?”
“He saw me looking at him.” She mumbles, keeping her face covered.
Mercedes swallows her laugh, while Taylor snorts. Mya sucks her teeth, sitting up from the table.
“You guys are the worst.”
“You got caught staring at a piece of eye candy. That’s hilarious!”
“Did he look annoyed or something?”
“I looked away, before I could see all of that.”
“Hm. Well, don’t worry about it too much. Maybe this’ll be ammo for one if not the both of you to make a move.” Taylor says, standing up from the table.
“And, where are you going?” Mercedes asks.
“She’s blowin’ us off for Teddy. Again.”
“Get some penis in you, and then we’ll talk.”
“White girl got a lil spunk in her, lately, huh?” Mercedes laughs, clapping her hands. “Chocolate’ll do that to ya.”
Taylor rolls her eyes, trying to hide the smirk on her lips. “Bye, girls.”
“Bye,” they wave.
Hearing a couple chairs scrape the tiled floor, she naturally looks to her left, instantly catching his eyes again.
This time, her lingering eyes are gifted a charming smile, turning her into mush.
Surprising herself, she plays it cool with a smirk, before he’s out of her sight.
Looking back in the direction of her food with the smirk stuck on her face, Mercedes scoffs in disbelief.
“Who knew you were such a quick learner?” she teases.
“Well, I’m gonna get back to work, now. See ya, later.” She stands up from the table and tosses her trash into the bin behind their table.
“You leavin’ me, too??” Her voice elevates.
“Yes. Some of us have to get back to work, as I previously stated. I’ll talk to you, later.” She assures her brash friend.
“Mmhm,” she waves her off.
Heading out of the expansive break room and down the hall, she’s pulled back before a neon pink poster board takes her out.
“Woah!” she gasps, catching her footing as a strong set of hands attach to her waist, keeping her from hitting the floor.
“Are you alright?” A deep voice sounds.
“Yeah, I’m,“ she turns to face the very man that makes her knees tremble, by merely existing.
“I’m good, yeah. Thank you.”
“It’s no problem, doll.” The corners of her mouth turn up at his southern drawl.
“It’a been a shame if you gotten wiped out by a poster board.”
“I don’t even know how I missed it,” they share a laugh, giving each other ample time to steal longer glances.
“What’s your name?” She asks, eyes lowering to his plump lips as he utters the name, Isaiah, in the most beautiful way she’s ever heard.
She hums, in response. “Nice to meet you, Isaiah.”
“Likewise.." he pauses, when she offers her own name.
"Mya," he repeats, nodding to himself.
"Mmhm," she hums, liking the way it sounds coming out of his mouth.
“Well, I'll let you get back to work, beautiful. Have a good day.” He says, lifting her hand to kiss the back of it.
“That’s a pretty nice conversation, for the girl who’s stomach hits her ass, every time he comes around the damn corner.” Taylor laughs on their three-way call.
“Shut up!” Mya whines, twirling the long black cord around her finger, watching her older sister, Gina, make dinner.
“Once we got to talkin’, it wasn’t so scary, anymore. He seems really sweet.” She says, making sister scoffs.
“That’s cute, mama,” Mercedes squeals. “Is he cuter, up close?”
“Oh my god, is he! The lips on that man deserve a prize.”
“Is that all??”
“He’s strong, too! Held my thick ass up with ease!” She giggles.
“Well, just let us know when the wedding is!” They all start laughing.
Oh god, please! I haven't even been asked on a date, yet.”
“True! He better get to it!”
“Here, here! But I've gotta get on the road, children! Toodles!” Taylor says.
They all bid their farewells, as she hangs the phone back on its base, attached to the wall.
"I love how you've still got a landline." She jokes.
"I like my old-timey things, ma'am."
"I know, I know," she holds her hands up.
“So, he’s fine, huh?” Gina asks, handing Mya a bowl of chicken and rice, just like their mama makes.
“Absolutely. Plump lips, broad nose and broad shoulders.” She squeals.
“He smells like sandalwood. You know how much I love sandalwood! I coulda pounced on him.”
“Maybe, you should.” Gina laughs, shoving a spoonful of food into her mouth.
“Gina!”
“What? It’s me! You don’t have to lie.” Mya’s cheeks flush red.
“In my head, I’ve already done that and much more. But, I can’t see myself doing anything, besides having a conversation with him, like earlier.”
“You’d be surprised. But, whatever happens, try not to think about it too much. That’s how you ruin it. Just have fun”
“Thanks, gigi.”
“Anytime. Thanks for coming over.”
“You know I’m always available to eat your food, sis.” She cheeses.
“That’s the only reason you came over?” She frowns.
Passing down the aisle of the large grocery store, in search for nothing particular, Mya taps her fingers against the buggy, humming along to whatever’s playing lowly on the overhead speakers.
Walking down an aisle that’s adorned with snacks of many forms, she starts picking her poison.
“Funny, seeing you here.” A voice calls out.
With a shake of her head, she turns to face Isaiah.
Instead of his regular business casual, he’s clad in sweats and a T-shirt. He still looked so good.
“If I didn’t know any better, I’d say you were stalkin’ me.”
“As pretty as you are, would you count it as a crime?” He tilts his head.
“You think I’m pretty, huh.” She blinks, tossing her chips into the buggy behind her.
“Indeed.” He flashes a grin so charming and boyish, it almost does her in.
“I think you’re pretty, too.” She giggles, staring into those deep brown pools he’s got for eyes. He joins in on the laughter.
“Look at that, then. Two pretty people in the grocery store.” He fondly shakes his head.
“You’re funny.” Pursing her lips together, she moves around him, picking out something else on the shelf.
“What brings you here?” She asks.
"Came to Charley’s for my usual, ‘fore they shut the hot bar down.”
“You know, I’ve never had the time to try anything from over there. It always looks so good!” She walks back to her buggy empty-handed.
“What??” he asks, almost offended that she’s never eaten any of Charley’s food. “We gotta fix that.”
“We do, yeah?”
“Leave your buggy of sadness, and follow me.” He says, walking away without another word.
Huffing, she tugs on her fitted jeans, keeping somewhat of a distance as she trails behind him, his heavenly scent sparking her unholy thoughts.
“Sweet Jesus,” she mumbles to herself.
Stopping in the small line, the pair stand shoulder to shoulder, a centimeter of space between them.
“So, what’s your ‘usual’?” She asks, looking up at his handsome face, holding his gaze as he looks down at her.
“Fried chicken, potatoes and macaroni. Good Ol’ southern food.”
“Nothin’ beats it.”
“You said it,” he agrees, heading up to the counter with her in tow.
“There he is! My favorite customer!” Charley greets, her tone all syrupy for the good looking man that loves her food.
“‘Sup, Charley. How’s business?”
“Ah, same ol’ same ol’. I see you brought a friend with you, this time,” her eyes flicker to Mya as she laughs,“I always see you starin’ at the board. Finally made your way over here, huh?”
“That, I did. Sorry, I’m chicken, sometimes.” She laughs, Charley joining in.
“It's alright dear, I love newcomers. The more, the merrier, right? What’ll you have?”
“Well, I heard good things about the fried chicken, potatoes and macaroni. Let’s do that.” Mya says.
“Great choices. Any dessert?”
“Ooh! Whatcha got?”
“Pecan pie, sweet potato casserole and cheesecake.”
“Hm… I’ll take a slice of the pecan pie and some casserole. Might as well indulge, right?”
“My kinda girl,” she smirks, eyes back on Isaiah. “You want ya regular, suga’?”
“You know it.”
“Alright, it’ll be up in a few.” With that, they pay for their meals and move off to the side to wait.
“She seems to be sweet on you.” Mya points out.
“She's married.” He chuckles.
“When has that ever stopped anybody?”
“True, true. But, even if she was, I’m cool.” He says, eyeing her for a minute longer.
After a few minutes, they grab their food and head towards the common area, sitting down at one of the tables.
Opening the styrofoam container, her eyes grow bigger than her stomach.
“Oh, man. This looks so good!” She exclaims. Isaiah chuckles at her adorable facial expression.
“Wait til you eat it.” He says, before digging into his own box.
Pulling the crispy chicken apart with her fork and pairing it with the macaroni, she sticks the forkful in her mouth and dances in her seat.
“See?!”
“Oh my god,” she covers her mouth, nodding in agreement.
They fall into a nice conversation as they indulge.
“Man, that was so good! Thank you for derailing my plans of eating junk food, until I passed out.” She says, as the pair walk towards her car.
“You’re always welcome. Glad I could get you full, on this nice day,” reaching for her hand, he gently holds it in his own. “Let me know if you need any other plans derailed.”
“I sure will.” She blushes, internally pouting when he begins to move away.
“Here, take my number,” she says, as they exchange phones.
“Alright, I got you locked in. You have a good night, pretty.”
“You too, pretty,” she jokes and that smile that she’s grown fond of spreads across his face.
She'd driven the whole way home with an identical smile on her face.
Stepping out of her shoes, she pulls her clothes off, tossing them inside her hamper and pulling on her satin robe.
Turning on her stereo, D'angelo continues playing, from earlier.
Grabbing her glass of wine off the counter, she saunters out to her balcony. A sigh on contentment leaves her, as she stares out at the blue-grey clouds covering the sky, signaling its early changes for the upcoming fall season.
The ringing phone cuts her serene moment short, sending her back towards the kitchen to answer it. It was Isaiah.
“Hello?” she answers, trying to mask her smile.
“Sorry if this is a bad time, I know it’s getting late…but, I couldn’t let the night end, without making sure you got in safe.”
A soft laugh leaves her lips at the sound of his slightly raspy voice.
The butterflies in her stomach triple. Sitting her glass on the counter, she fiddles with the strap on her robe.
“I’m safe and sound, yes. Thank you.”
“Anytime, beautiful.”
“Are you this sweet to everybody?” She questions, picking her wine back and taking a sip.
“Yes, my mama raised me right.”
“Well amen for that,” she says as they share a laugh.
“Do you work tomorrow, if you don't mind me asking?”
“I actually do! How about you?”
“Bright and early, yes ma'am. Sounds like I'll see you tomorrow.”
“Until then, good sir,” she giggles, earning a chuckle out of him.
Ugh how I missed this 😭 This legit had me smiling from ear to ear. Mya and Isaiah had the perfect meet cute! From her friends teasing her to her awkwardly walking into the poster (like that’s something my clumsy ass would do too lmaoo). And then this impromptu outing where they legit hit it off like they already been friends for a long time. If we can laugh and bond over food?! Yeah we locked in buddy! The green flag of him calling to end the night off >>> Ready to dive headfirst into their romance fren!!
Y’all are getting way too comfortable with disrespecting people who provide entertainment for the free. Y’all should also learn to engage with these authors, because I can only imagine that to them, it feels like speaking to a brick wall. We have talented writers who have repeatedly asked for some engagement on fics.
Engagement is motivation because writing isn’t easy it sometimes takes a mental toll, which could lead to writers block. Engagement also helps them to think of new ideas, especially if the writers themselves encourage asks. Simply leaving likes isn’t engagement, it’s just like an attendance sheet if we’re being fr; it also causes talented writers to leave the app.
So if you really appreciate the 7-10K words that they provide you with, I’m sure one sentence of appreciation and encouragement wouldn’t kill any of you. It’s so easy to type up the 10K word requirement for a school essay that requires 100% of your brain power, but a simple “I really liked this!” is difficult for y’all? 🙄🙄 (Nigerian eye-roll)
Anywho, here are writers that I would like to personally appreciate:
@pickingupmymercedes (bestie fr)
@saintslewis
@mauvecherie-writes
@emjayewrites (will mourn their departure)
@httpsserene
@henneseyhoe
@serpenttines
@sageispunk (new fav, definitely check them out)
@peyiswriting
@kairawrites
@hopefulromantic1 ,@biggameplayertrentaa, @trenterprise & @derora (90% of the time, I’m on their page just to see them yap, I love it!)
pixelskylines
romaincrisis
