summary: riri was off limits. she was your brother's best friend after all, and he'd warned you about her. but rules never really applied to you, never stopped you from doing what, and who you want, anyway.
word count: 7.4k
contents: brother's best friend riri, smut (18+), fingering, oral (riri is a EATER), strap!riri, strap riding, dirty talk, flirting, reader is a tease
note: this was just supposed to be a lil one two with a lil bit of smut, but i been missing riri so bad. fun fact: this is actually me and riri's tape and i'm letting y'all get a taste. i ain't even wanna share this with y'all fr, but you know. anyway, i hope y'all like this. idk why i keep writing riri as a trifling ass best friend but hey, y'all eat it up every time. enjoy! mwah! mwah!
You could always tell when Riri Williams was back in Chicago. The whole city seemed to shift around her, like it had been holding its breath. Especially in your house.
Everything felt louder, more alive. The delicious smell of your mom’s famous jerk chicken and cornbread always floated in the air—Riri’s favorite. But your favorite part was always the sound of your brother Tyzen’s laugh echoing off the walls like music.
You loved seeing him like that. And Riri brought it out of him. You knew how much he missed her when she was away at school, how his other friendships never measured up to his bond with her. They’d been inseparable since they were kids. Like they shared a language only they understood.
You smiled as you reminisced on fond playground memories between the two, memories that weren't your own, but ones you bore witness to. Tyzen and Riri, bonded by scraped knees, shared secrets, and a thousand inside jokes.
But unlike your older brother, you weren’t here to chase nostalgia. No, your plans for the weekend were far less innocent. You were here to collect new memories, souvenirs to tuck away and revisit when the nights got too quiet and Riri was three states away.
With a sly grin, you gave yourself a once-over in the mirror, mentally patting yourself on the back for the outfit you put together. The charcoal-grey top clutched your chest like a second skin, particularly the reason you chose it. You’d tugged the zipper down as far as decency—or temptation—allowed, framing your breasts with just enough boldness to dare her to stare. Your nipples peaked against the fabric, shameless and defiant.
The black mini skirt? Shorter than it needed to be for a casual night in, and you wouldn’t have had it any other way. It sat high on your waist, sculpted to every dip and swell of your body like it was part of the plan. Because indeed it was. That hem danced across your thigh with every shift of your hips, flirtatious and fearless, daring gravity to try its luck. Pull it down? Not a chance. Let it ride up. Let her look.
One final glance in the mirror, and you stepped out of your room, hips swaying as you strutted down the hallway—bait cast, hook sharpened, and your favorite kind of trouble waiting on the other end.
•••
You heard her before you saw her.
“Ty, you still got that weak-ass jump shot?” Riri questioned, her voice carrying that same mischievous edge you remembered from all the years she spent hanging around your house. It used to annoy you, back when you were younger, when she was just your brother’s best friend. When you didn’t look at her the way you did now.
You pushed open the front door and stepped onto the porch, leaning against the frame as you watched them play in the driveway. The late afternoon sun spilled across the backyard, catching in Riri’s curls as she dribbled the ball low to the ground, quick and smooth, like she didn’t even have to think about it.
Ty snatched the ball and backed up a few steps, bouncing it lazily like he had all the time in the world. “You talking like I won’t dust your lil ass right now if we was actually playing for real.”
Riri scoffed, hands on her hips. “Nigga, you got one move, and that shit barely work.”
Ty laughed, then hit her with something quick—a fake-out that had her losing balance. “My one move got yo ass stumbling right now. You better watch them ankles, Ri.”
Riri blinked, then burst out laughing. “Okay, you got it. But try that shit again, and I’m locking yo old ass up.”
You leaned against the patio railing, watching them go at it. They were all elbows, sneakers, and insults. But it worked for their dynamic.
And in the middle of it all, you kept your eyes on Riri, awaiting the moment she finally glanced your way.
You crossed your arms under your chest, pushing your boobs up higher, welcoming your spilling cleavage. Your skirt was riding up some more, and of course you let it—assisted it even.
You were dripping with intent, radiating want like heat off pavement, and you needed Riri to notice.
As if pulled by some unspoken force, her eyes flicked your way. Brief, like an afterthought—until it wasn't. She did a double take, gaze snapping back to you, locking in on your skin, your curves, the deliberate softness barely covered by your clothes. There was awe there, laced with disbelief, like she was seeing you for the first time and didn’t quite know what to do with it, the game with your brother no longer holding her attention.
You had her. Hook, line, and wide-open stare.
You didn't even bother hiding your smirk. Why would you? You were dressed for the role you wanted, now it was time to play it. And by the look in Riri’s eyes, dark and pulling, she was already halfway.
“Well, damn,” She muttered, low. Almost too quiet to catch.
But you caught it. You saw the way her mouth twitched into an intrigued smirk before Ty stepped into her line of sight and launched the ball dead at her chest. “Hell nah. Don't even think about it.”
“Whatchu mean?” Riri retorted, feigning confusion. Her eyes never left you, their glare refusing to let you exhale, her grin still curved and dangerous.
You watched Ty narrow his eyes, a warning flashing across his face—dead serious and in protective older brother mode. “Think I don’t see the way you eyeing my baby sister? I know you, Ri. And I’m telling you no. Fuck no. You not starting nothing with her.”
“Starting what?” Riri lifted a shoulder, all casual, amusement coating her words like this was all funny to her. “I’m just saying hi.”
She lifted her hand in a short wave, eyes glued to yours. And you waved back, slower, bolder—your gaze drifting down the length of her fingers.
Yeah… those fingers would do just fine.
You bit your lip, unable to suppress your ever-growing grin. Your cheeks burned hot, not with shame, but with fire. Thrill thrummed through your veins like static, alive and buzzing as you drank in the image of Riri. You didn’t even pretend to look away. You let her know exactly where you stood: opposite of everything Tyzen was saying.
You wanted her to start something.
Needed it like air.
•••
She didn’t look at you again for the next five minutes, not until you arched a brow in her direction, then turned on your heel and sauntered back toward the house. You knew exactly what you were doing. Knew your ass was practically begging for attention beneath that skirt, and knew Riri wouldn’t be able to ignore the invitation written in every step you took.
By the time you were clicking the door shut behind you, you caught her voice, weightless and nonchalant as she muttered something to Ty about needing to call her mom.
A weak excuse. But you didn’t care.
Whatever got her inside.
Once you were inside, the house felt still. Cool air, dim light, and that quiet hum of anticipation settled into your bones. You took your time on the couch, legs tucked just right, your glass of lemonade perched between your fingers like a prop you knew exactly how to use.
And Riri was right on your heels.
Her sneakers padded lightly over the wood floors as she walked in, slower now, like she was stalling for something she hadn’t admitted to herself yet. She didn’t notice you at first, just moved straight into the kitchen like she knew the layout by heart, because she did. She grabbed a glass, filled it with water, and leaned against the counter while she pulled out her phone.
You listened quietly as her voice lifted, caring and soft.
“Yeah, Ma… I’m still here. Probably for another hour, maybe two… yeah, I’ll be back in time. Promise.”
A pause, then a short laugh. “No, I’m not getting into anything. Just chillin.”
She hung up, set her phone on the counter, and let her weight shift against the kitchen island. That’s when her eyes finally landed on you, traveling up the length of your legs, all the way up your exposed skin until you two were staring at each other.
And just like that, the smirk was back—slow, wide, and full of intent.
You took a sip from your lemonade, straw between your lips as you held her gaze. Deliberate. Unbothered. Dangerous.
“Thought that lil line about calling your mom was a weak ass excuse to come see me,” You said, your voice smooth, head tilted slightly as you played with the straw. “But I respect it. Not lying on your moms like that.”
Riri didn’t take the bait—not directly.
Instead, she stepped a little closer, cocking her head, gold chain catching in the low light. “When you start dressing like that?”
You crossed your legs, slow and precise, your skirt shifting just enough. “I only dress like this when I know who’s coming over.”
Her lips parted like she had something smart to say, but all she managed was a quiet,
“You tryna get me in trouble?”
Your smile didn’t waver, it spread wider. “What if I am?”
The air stretched between you like a balloon threatening to pop. You could tell Riri wanted to say something reckless—do something worse…
Then the front door opened, and the balloon deflated, exhaling all the tension back into the air before returning to its original, boring shape.
Ty walked in, his expression already suspicious. He took one look at Riri, then at you, then back at Riri again before dropping onto the couch beside you like a man with a mission.
“Y’all real quiet in here,” he said slowly, settling in way too comfortably. “I ain't interrupting anything am I?”
You kept your face blank, and took another sip.
Riri just shook her head, that smirk now tucked behind her teeth as she crept over to the couch, dropping down on the other side of you. Her thigh brushed yours—light, unintentional on the surface—but she didn’t move away.
“Nah,” She hummed, grabbing the remote and flipping on the Bulls game, already halfway through. “Just got off the phone with Ma. We got dinner plans later, so y’all only got me for like another hour.”
She said it like it was nothing, eyes glued to the screen, but her body leaned ever so slightly in your direction, like gravity was playing favorites. And you could feel the warmth of her skin where it pressed into yours, barely there but impossible to ignore.
You sat in silence between them, enduring their cheers, screams, and over-the-top commentary through the last two quarters of the game. Normally, you would’ve dipped out, shut yourself in your room, ignored their loud-ass shenanigans. But not today.
Sitting next to Riri was part of the plan. Letting her thigh brush against yours, her palm rest on your bare skin when Tyzen was too caught up in the game to notice, that was the game you were watching.
The corners of your lips curled as her fingers crept higher, slow and shameless, inching closer to the heat between your legs. She hovered there, teasing, always on the edge of something more. Never quite touching, until the final buzzer sounded and the Bulls took the win.
Tyzen jumped up with a shout, arms thrown in the air. And in that moment, Riri slipped two fingers beneath your skirt, rubbing them against the soaked fabric of your panties. Brief, yet firm, just enough for you to become acquainted with the feeling.
It took everything in you not to cry out. Your breath lodged hard in your throat, thighs twitching, nerves stinging. And she knew it. She didn’t even look your way. Riri kept her eyes on the screen like nothing happened, save for the smug little grin tugging at the corner of her lips.
Your heart was racing. Your plan was working like magic. Minimal effort, maximum effect, and you silently thanked whoever made Riri so damn easy to tempt.
You leaned back, watching as your brother walked her to the door, dapped her up, and exchanged their usual “see you laters.” But her focus wasn’t on him.
It was on you.
And of course, you gave her something to look at, letting your legs fall open so she could witness the growing wet stain on the fabric of your lacy panties. You held the pose for a beat, long enough to see her lick her lips before turning back to Ty, who still had his back to you.
“Aight, Ty. Ima see you,” She said, pulling him into a quick hug before heading out.
“Don’t be a stranger, Ri,” You called after her, all flirtation, sugar-sweet and dripping with suggestion.
She didn’t respond, but you caught the shake of her shoulders on the way out as she laughed to herself.
Ty shut the door, then turned to you with that big-brother face that said he knew something was up. And he wasn’t happy.
“I’m warning you right the fuck now,” He began, dead serious. “Whatever ideas you got that involve Riri, get that shit out your head. She’s family. Y’all better dead that shit. I’m not fucking playing.”
“I’m not fucking playing,” You mocked under your breath, rolling your eyes as you stood. “Go to hell, Tyzen.”
Like hell you were gonna listen. He should’ve known better than to waste his breath on you.
You sauntered off to your room, smug and satisfied, heat still pulsing between your legs, and Riri’s touch still lingering like a secret written on your skin.
•••
It was nearly 1 a.m., and sleep wasn’t even pretending to come.
You’d flipped your pillow three times, kicked off the blanket, dragged it back over your legs, rolled to one side, then the other. But the heat under your skin had nothing to do with the room. It was her. Still. Riri’s hands, her smirk, the way her fingers had pressed into you, melding with your wetness like they were supposed to be there. That shit had replayed in your head like your favorite song stuck on loop.
You grabbed your phone from the nightstand, screen lighting up your face in the dark, and stared at it for a few seconds before typing out the first thing that came to mind.
You: ty ain’t home
Simple. To the point. You knew what it meant. And so would she.
Then you waited. And waited.
Forty-five damn minutes passed. Long enough for you to talk yourself out of it twice, then back into it a third time. You tossed your phone onto the mattress with a groan, only to snatch it up the second it buzzed.
Riri: where he at?
You rolled your eyes, already feeling the corners of your mouth tug upward.
You: with his bm
Riri: oh aight
That was it. No follow-up. No movement. Just those two words and radio silence like she didn’t know exactly what the hell you were trying to say.
You tapped back into the chat and reacted to your original message with a little exclamation point. Emphasis, bitch. You knew she saw it.
A minute later:
Riri: okay, he ain’t home. what that mean? lol
You narrowed your eyes at your screen, giggling under your breath even though you were annoyed. She was being so irritating on purpose, and it was almost cute. Almost.
You took a deep breath, chewing your bottom lip before finally typing:
You: it means come over dummy🙄
There was a beat. Then her reply came in, slow, like a smirk in text form.
Riri: what i’m coming over for?
Oh, she knew. She knew and she was dragging it out, sucking every bit of patience you had straight to the surface.
You sat up, head falling back to your headboard with a groan, but you were grinning now, fully wrapped in her little game.
You: what other reason would i have to text you at damn near 2 in the morning? riri stop playing with me.
Another pause.
Riri: you was playing with me earlier. what, i don’t get a turn?
Your stomach fluttered.
She was still teasing, but her tone had shifted, something a little deeper in it now, something real. You could feel the change through the screen.
You: come over then. i promise you’ll get your turn.
You hit send and stared at the message, nerves and excitement warring in your bosom. The silence that followed was louder than anything. You laid back, phone on your chest, eyes on the ceiling, heart thudding.
She was coming, no confirmation text necessary.
•••
About fifteen minutes later, your phone lit up with a single text:
Riri: outside.
That was all it took.
You damn near flew down the stairs, bare feet silent on the wood. You’d done away with the oversized T-shirt you fell asleep in, swapping it out, instead, for something silkier, sexier—your short, satin nightgown. The material moved against your body like it had a motive. Just the right amount of skin, just enough reveal. You didn’t throw it on for comfort.
This was bait.
You paused at the door, hand on the knob, imitating the tact needed to play it cool. Then you cracked it open.
The night air rolled over your skin, light and dry, making your curls dance as the door swung wide. And there she was.
Riri stood just outside, one hand buried in the pockets of her grey sweats, the other gripping her backpack, holding it in place on her muscular shoulder. That black tank stretched across her chest in a way that made it hard to focus on anything else. Her gold chain glistened, the little “R” pendant resting right at her collarbone like punctuation. She looked comfortable, casual, too casual for someone making this many waves in your system.
Her eyes dragged down your body languidly, stopping and lingering over everything you had exposed to her.
“Damn,” She said, that smirk creeping onto her lips. “You don’t leave nothing up to the imagination, do you?”
You raised a brow. “And yet somehow you still standing there imagining shit.”
That remark made her laugh, and you rolled your eyes. “This whole situation amusing you, huh?”
“Lil bit, yeah,” She said, not bothering to deny it. “You gon invite me in or…?”
“In a minute,” you murmured, leaning into the doorframe, voice lazy and sweet. “Need some time to remember what you look like before...”
She huffed a laugh, eyes dancing. You saw the way her fingers twitched in her pockets like she was resisting the urge to reach for you already. That cocky patience of hers was barely holding.
You gave her a slow once-over, letting your gaze linger unapologetically. “Sweats and a tank, huh? That’s what you wear to your 2 a.m. booty calls?”
Her brows lifted. “That what this is?”
“You showed up, didn’t you?”
“Who says I wasn't already on the way over? Maybe I had to handle something for your brother.”
“Mhmm,” You said, drawing the sound out. “And maybe I'm just wearing this because I ran out of clean laundry.”
She laughed again, scratching her nose a little. “You so full of shit.”
“Just like you, boo.”
That made her smile for real, and you stepped aside to let her in. You held out your hand, fingers open.
Riri didn’t hesitate, she just slid her hand into yours like it belonged there.
And without another word, you turned, leading her up the stairs, hips swaying, entrancing the shorter girl with every stride. Her hand stayed in yours the whole way, grip firm.
She was still smiling when you pushed open your bedroom door, and she stepped through, eyes dark and knowing.
•••
Your bedside lamp casted a gentle glow over the room, accentuating your shadow and Riri’s as you walked into the space.
She stepped inside behind you, locking the door with a quiet finality. Riri dropped her backpack onto the chair in the corner without a word, turning to look around your space like she hadn’t been in your room a thousand times before.
But this wasn’t the same room anymore. Not tonight.
You leaned against your dresser, arms folded just under your chest, nightgown sliding dangerously high up your thigh. You watched her as she stood there, hands in her pockets again like that could somehow keep her grounded.
“What’s in the bag, Ri?” You asked, voice dripping with mischief, head tilted in curiosity. You already had a feeling. And judging by the flicker of a smirk on her face, she knew you knew.
She hadn't answered right away, just looked over at you with that slow-burning kind of gaze that fried a hole through your skin.
And in true Riri fashion, she deflected, wandering toward your bed like she owned the place. “What would Ty think if he knew his little sister was texting me in the middle of the night like that? Using the fact that he with his kid to get me over here?”
You laughed under your breath, “I look like I give a fuck what Tyzen think?”
“No. You don't.” Riri sat down at the edge of your bed, legs spread slightly, arms resting on her knees like she was holding back. Her eyes dipped to the hem of your gown again, lingered, then snapped back to your face. “So what, you just couldn’t sleep?”
You walked towards her. Slowly, every step deliberate. “Couldn’t sleep,” You echoed, standing between her knees now, letting her fingers skim your silky nightgown. “Had a lot on my mind.”
Riri looked up at you, her breath cracking just slightly. “Oh yeah?”
You nodded, letting your fingers trail lightly across her shoulder, then down her chest, just grazing that damn chain.
“Like what?”
“You.” You blew it jaggedly, the answer to her question full of air and unrelenting lust. “You were on my mind, Ri.”
The silence between you stretched again, electric and tightly wound. Her hands twitched where they rested on her thighs. She was barely holding on, and so were you.
Riri reached for you, wrapped a hot palm around the expanse of your thigh, pulling you closer with a famished grunt. “I need to know you're sure about this. Need you to know what you're starting.”
“Oh, I know what I’m starting, Ri,” You purred, letting your digits tangle in her thick curls. You yanked her neck back, your force rough and unapologetic, causing her to wince beneath you. “Question is… do you know what you’ve started? That you're not leaving this room until I’m done with you?”
That yanked another breathy grunt from her throat. Not really a laugh. Not quite a moan. But something that let you know she felt your words all the way through.
“Been thinking about you all day,” She admitted, finally, the words soft but heavy, like they cost her something to say. “Since earlier… since before earlier.
Her slender digits were traveling up your inner thigh now, like your core was calling them home, drawing them closer and closer like a magnet. “Thinking bout all that ass you been flashing me,”
“This pussy…” Eager fingertips found your soaked crotch, your wetness coating Riri’s hand. She began rubbing slow circles into your budding clit, coaxing a few rapid moans from between your parted lips. “Fuck. I should’ve known your nasty ass wouldn't have any panties on up under here.”
This time she did moan, and fuck was the desperate little noise glorious. “I been trying to be good, but damn, you make it so fucking hard, bruh.”
“Funny,” You tilted your head, mouth curling. “I been thinking something similar for the past five months you been gone. Except, I never planned to be good, never wanted to.”
You shoved her hard, making sure she landed smack dab in the middle of your mattress before straddling her hips. In a swift, skilled motion, you peeled your nightgown off, discarding it somewhere to the side, not caring. What you cared about was the girl trapped underneath you, practically drooling as she stared up at your naked figure.
“Jesus Christ…” Riri exhaled, forcing you to taste the hunger she breathed into the air.
You giggled, leaning down to drag your tongue up the length of her throat. Then you nibbled on her earlobe, lips brushing the shell of it as you whispered, “You were too fucking easy.”
Riri’s hands gripped your bare ass, fingers digging in as she bucked her hips up into you, her clothed crotch pressing right where you needed it. “I was easy? You were the one prancing around the house in that thong you insist on calling a skirt.”
“You folded during a Bulls game.” You quipped, eyes glittering.
She smacked your ass hard enough to make you screech. “You had your legs open.”
“You had your fingers under my skirt.”
You were grinning down at her now, still perched in her lap, shamelessly grinding against her, chasing friction like your life depended on it. “This little tit for tat we got going is hot and all, but we both know why I called you over here. I need to be fucked, Ri. Now.”
“So demanding,” She smiled deviously. “And vulgar too. Just like a nasty little slut..” She pulled you down, kissing you then, slow at first, but there was no tiptoeing now. No guessing. Just mouths parting, hands moving, heat rising between you like a fire finally fed. Your hands found her hair as her grip tightened on your hips, pulling you closer, closer, like the space between you was never meant to exist in the first place.
You were the one to break the kiss, breathless, your hands tugging at the fabric still separating you. Riri was still fully dressed, and it was starting to piss you off. “Take this shit off.”
“Get off me and I will.”
You rolled your eyes, but obliged. The two of you switched positions, and you gawked from below as Riri ridded her body of every article of clothing, including her briefs. Immediately, your gaze dropped to her pussy. Neatly trimmed and calling your name, beckoning you near.
You hadn't even noticed you were reaching for her until Riri stopped you. “Not yet.”
Her refusal caused you to groan.
“You never been told no before?” She chuckled, eyes gleaming as she hovered over you, clearly amused.
You stared up at her, deadpan, wearing a face that screamed what the fuck do you think?
Riri only shook her head, moving to kiss your neck and you whimpered. Her lips traced a path down your throat, over your collarbone, dragging heat in their wake. It was deliberate. Reverent. She was finally taking what she’d been eyeing all night.
You arched under her touch, skin prickling as the cool air met warm flesh. Her mouth followed, and when it closed around your right nipple, your breath caught hard, hips bucking up into nothing, a quiet moan slipping out before you could stop it.
“You getting shy on me baby?” She teased, returning to suckle your left breast next.
You slid your fingers into her hair, tugging harshly, just enough to make her exhale against your skin. “I don’t even know what that word means.”
“Reckless girl…” Riri muttered, eyeing you with menacing intent.
You laughed, but it melted fast when her hand slipped between your legs, sliding over your throbbing, attention starved clit. “Riri… please.”
She hissed, “Damn baby, you wet as fuck…”
The wonder in her voice served as motivation, “Yeah, no shit,” You spat, already breathless, already unraveling. “You took forever.”
Riri didn't reward you with a worded response, instead, she let her digits do the talking. Her middle finger ran up the length of your wet folds, rousing, hovering at your crying entrance before sinking in, deep.
A whine sprung free, loud and reverberating, and you thanked the heavens your mother was a heavy sleeper. Riri’s slow strokes were plucked straight from your dreams, a thing you'd imagined, but never thought you'd get the chance to live. She let her fingers slip through you, slow and firm and devastatingly good. You were moaning, a mess splayed out beneath her. Your hips lifted off the bed, reaching for more.
Her thumb circled your swollen nub, her fingers slipped in and out of your soaked cunt, and the pressure built fast, like your body had been holding this tension for days instead of hours.
You were abusing Riri’s curls, pulling and fisting every strand as you felt your climax build in your deepest depths.
“Riri… right t-there! Don't fucking stop! Don't!”
She didn't. If anything, she got more focused, her eyes locked on your face like she wanted to watch the moment you fell apart for her. “This all I needed to do to get yo ass to act right? Hmm?”
You didn't respond because you couldn't.
She smiled, “You look so fucking good right now baby, all stuffed with my fingers,” She pulled them out momentarily, eyes transfixed on the way your slick coated the digits. “Sound good too. So loud for me, so messy.”
Riri splashed around in your sopping cunt, coaxing your orgasm nearer and nearer with her rapid thrusts and sinful words. You would say she didn't know what she was doing to you, but she did, wholeheartedly. And you knew she'd keep going, keep fucking you hard and deep until you were weeping, and begging her to stop.
“Wonder if you taste as good as you look.”
You hummed, plastering a dazed smile across your mouth, “You know I fucking do.”
“So mouthy, baby,” Riri whispered, her wet lips traveling the length of your abdomen, making their way down, down, down. “Can't wait to shut you up again with my tongue.”
Your breathing was already ragged, your legs already twitching as her mouth ghosted lower, teasing just above where you needed her most. Her wet hands pushed your legs apart, spreading them with no hesitation. You watched her eyes roll the moment she heard a soft squish erupt from your wet pussy as your thighs separated for her, felt her breathy moan kiss your sweaty flesh as she moved her mouth closer to your heaving cunt.
You tried to say something smart, another slick comment, another jab, but the words got caught in the back of your throat the second her tongue flicked out, attacking your clit with haste.
All at once, your sass collapsed into a gasp, your hand flying up to grab onto something, anything, needing something to anchor you in this moment. But Riri didn’t give you time to adjust, didn’t let you settle, she kept going, kept tasting you like she had all night and nothing else to do.
Riri’s mouth attacked your aching pussy, latching on to your clit, breathing you in like a woman drowning, and starved for oxygen. She slurped and sucked, drinking all of your juices as you thrashed above her.
She paused for half a second, lips slick, eyes gleaming. “Still got something to say?”
You wanted to smack her, just a little. Just to remind her who she was dealing with. But violence would have to wait.
She was making you feel too good. Your orgasm was clawing its way up, hot and heavy, and there was no stopping it now.
The wet sounds of her tongue lapping you up, her hungry growls vibrating against your skin. It was all so obscene, and it was everything. Riri wasn’t just trying to make you come. She was consuming you, like she needed you to live.
And fuck, she was getting off on it too.
You could feel it in the way her hands trembled, in how she rutted subtly against the mattress with every moan that tore out of your throat. This wasn’t just about you. The way your voice broke on her name, the way your body writhed under her mouth, it was all pushing her to the edge, too.
If the tension in her frame meant anything, Riri was going to come right along with you.
And fuck, that thought alone almost finished you.
“Ri, baby, I’m close. S-So close…” You whined, fucking her face with your slippery cunt.
And she didn't shy away. Riri quenched her thirst with pools of your slick juices, suckling harder on your sore little nub, trying to bring you closer. “Me too baby. Come in my mouth, make me take that shit.”
You howled, the sound dragged raw from the pit of your stomach as your vision blurred, then vanished completely, eyes rolling back, going white with the force of it. You couldn’t see. Couldn’t hear. All you could do was feel.
And fuck, did you feel it.
Waves of pleasure crashed through your body, relentless and overwhelming, tearing through your senses like a storm. Your toes curled, locked in place, your body trembling as you rode it out, desperate to hold onto the high for as long as possible. You didn’t want it to end. You weren’t ready to let it go.
You were gone, so out of it that you didn’t even realize Riri was coming too, twitching between your thighs as her own orgasm sucked her under. But she’d come up before you had. And now, she was murmuring something low, lips brushing your inner thigh, her hand smoothing over your stomach like she was trying to coax you back to earth.
Trying to remind you you were still here.
Still hers.
“Baby? You good?” Her voice was muffled, faint in your ringing ears, but you heard it.
You managed a weak nod, barely able to make out her drenched face through your blurred vision, and she chuckled.
“You never squirted like that before, huh?” She sounded confident in her accusation, and you wanted to slap that smug smirk right off her face.
But she was right, and you let her know, “No… f-first time…”
“I can tell. I never came from just eating pussy either. Guess we both got firsts tonight.”
You grinned wide, finally able to take in just how soaked her face really was, like she’d laid there and let you waterboard her on purpose. She looked satisfied as hell, licking her lips slowly, chest jumping as she tried to catch her breath.
You smirked, voice syrupy and bold. “Don’t tell me you a one-nut wonder, Ri. That’d be… disappointing.”
Riri huffed a little laugh, shaking her head as she peered down at you, wonder stricken by your tenacity. “You really think that?”
You shrugged, smirk still sitting pretty on your lips. You weren’t backing down.
Your gaze followed her lazily as she stepped off the bed, sauntering toward the chair where she’d dropped her backpack earlier. Her eyes were glinting, mischief written all over her face as she picked it up and walked it back over to you.
“Still wanna know what I got in here?” Riri asked, voice steeped in trouble.
Your laugh was one you could not swallow, it’s intensity causing you to topple over into your mattress, cheeks blazing, and your stomach bubbling with excitement.
Your laugh broke out before you could stop it, loud and bright, your the quiet room. You collapsed back into your pillows, cheeks flushed, stomach flipping with anticipation.
You already knew you were in for it.
You couldn’t fucking wait.
•••
“Knew you’d be tight, but god f-fucking damn, b-baby…”
You were on top of her, riding her specialty strap like there was no tomorrow. Your thighs were burning, a thick, sticky ring of cum already gathered at the base of the toy, but you refused to relent. The stretch was too good, the girthy member spreading your walls wide as you took her, over and over again at your own pace.
Of course Riri wasn’t helping. She just gripped your hips, holding you there, letting you do all the work while her eyes dragged over your body, half-lidded but locked in. Watching you bounce on her dick like she was committing it to memory. Like the show was just for her.
You hated how much that turned you on. Hated how smug she looked, how languid her touch was, like she knew you’d ride her regardless. And she wasn’t wrong.
So you’d given yourself a new mission: Break her chill exterior and make her lose it completely. Make her beg for release just like you had.
And judging by the way her grip on your waist kept tightening… maybe you were getting close.
“Yeah? My pussy feel good wrapped around that big dick, don't it, Ri?” You flipped your hair to the side, eyes penetrating her soul as you grinded down harder, more fervent than before.
Shit this was good. No, it was fucking fantastic. Your third orgasm was clawing its way out, so close you could taste its flavor all over your tongue.
Riri was a mess beneath you, whimpering louder than you now. Her thumbs dug into your lower back, leaving heat in their wake as she clung to you. She was rutting up into you, her thrusts syncing perfectly with your relentless grind. The both of you were chasing the same wild and wordless sensation.
“Shit, y-yeah. Too damn good. Fin- Finna bust in this pretty pussy baby… mmm.”
That declaration made you clench around her, strangling her dick with your gushing, wet walls. But Riri fucked up into you anyway, working against your restriction. God, you could combust right here, right now.
“Play with your titties for me.” Her voice was a rasp that hardly existed.
You obeyed without reluctance, lifting your palms from her damp abdomen to tug on your puffy nipples. You groaned immediately at the contact, hips jerking forward on Riri’s pelvis. You were dripping now, clenching tighter with every movement as you climbed toward something holy, chasing relief like it owed you salvation.
“Baby… I’m finna come, finna come inside baby shit…” She was delirious, “Keep showing off for me. Please, please, please don't stop.”
You couldn't help the way your lips flicked. God this girl was soo easy to test. But you loved it. You continued fondling your breasts and tweaking your nipples, moaning all the while. Your attentive buds had always been so extra sensitive.
“You wanna come in me?” You picked up your pace, fully aware of how close she was to the edge. Your well-used cunt clenched in anticipation, eager to welcome every drop of what she was about to give you.
“Mhmm! Wan– Wanna–”
You leaned forward, cradling her sweaty throat in your palm… and squeezed. “Beg for it.”
Defiance flared in her eyes, and you could tell Riri wanted to rebut, but the way you held her neck in your grip barred any chance of that happening.
And she had no choice but to adhere.
“Let me come in this tight pussy, ma. I’m begging you. Let me fill your hole up, please. I need to fuck it back into you when it starts to spill out… baby… I-I, I need– please...”
Blubbering and pathetic. Just how you liked your women.
You smirked, you knew it would take nothing to tip her over now. She was practically crying as she struggled to hold it in.
But you weren't quite done with her yet.
You were slamming down onto her dick, hard and rough like you like it, strangling her, restricting her airway as you edged yourself again and again.
And then you let her go, allowing her to take her first breath of air in minutes, before whispering, “Fuck me from the back and nut in me, Ri.”
Riri didn’t need to be told twice. In seconds, she had you flipped onto your stomach, her grip firm and unrelenting as she manhandled you into place, your face buried in the pillows, the scent of your own skin and sweat surrounding you, hips yanked up until your ass was arched and begging.
“Shit…” She hissed, reacclimating her strap to the warmth of your hole.
You barely had time to catch your breath before she started moving, like she knew the exact angle that would have you clenching the sheets and biting down on a moan. “Fuck me Ri, fuck meeee… ju-st like th-at!”
“Like this, ma? This how you wanted it?”
You whined agreement, knees beginning to buckle.
“You not giving up on me yet, right baby? We not done.”
Riri slammed into you, once, twice, three times before you felt her hot seed settle into your entrance, warming your body all over. But she didn't stop fucking her mess deep into you.
Your orgasm followed just seconds after hers. Quicker than the last, but slower in how it bloomed through you. It rolled over every nerve ending like it was dragged by gravity, heavy and hot, stretching the moment into something endless. Your limbs went limp, and for a second, it felt like time cracked open and spilled out.
“Wish you could see how fucking messy you are right now, you're dripping.” She was still gliding in and out of you, like she physically could not stop—she couldn't let your pussy go. “So filthy.”
You gasped, too fucked out to stop her, not really wanting her to stop anyway. “Fuck it back into me, Ri. Make me take it.”
You didn't need to see her face to know she wore her signature smirk on her mouth, already granting your request without a sliver of hesitation. “God baby, you look so pretty when you full… need to keep you like this. Full of me. Full of you. Shit…”
•••
Minutes passed, maybe hours. You couldn’t really tell. Somehow, you were waking, eyes breaking open from what felt like the deepest sleep. Your limbs were heavy, your body sore in the best, most sinful way. You were warm, wrapped in sheets and skin, the faintest scent of sex still lingered in the air.
“Hey, sleepyhead.”
Riri’s voice drifted over you like a hug you didn’t ask for, but most certainly needed after the shit she put you through. You smiled without thinking, full grin, lazy and genuine.
She didn’t let it slide.
“Not you grinning when you hear my voice. Ego boost.”
“Girl, shut the hell up.” You giggled, turning your face toward her, cheek pressed into the pillow.
“You sleep okay?”
“Mhmm.”
She was already watching you, one hand kneading your ass like she wasn’t yet finished with you. Like she’d never be done. But the suggestion in her eyes was quiet now. She looked thoughtful. And a little hesitant.
“So,” She started, fingers still moving, “Not to
bombard you with the ‘what are we’ question, but…”
You blinked at her, fully awake now. “You say as you bombard me with the ‘what are we’ question.”
“I just wanna know what this means for us. You telling me you wouldn't wanna know what we are after the way we just fucked?”
“Riri–” You began, but she cut you off.
“And I don’t wanna lie to Ty,” She added, a little quieter. “He’s my best friend. You know how it is. But I’m not gonna act like this didn’t happen. Or like I don’t want it to happen again. I want it to keep happening.”
You rolled onto your side, facing her completely. “You think I regret this?”
Riri shrugged, but there was something vulnerable in the way she avoided your eyes. “You always been good at acting like shit don't phase you, so.”
“Only when it’s shit I don’t want,” You said simply. “And I want this, I want you. We’ll just... deal with Tyzen when the sun comes up.”
That got her to smile again. Not cocky this time. Just soft. Real.
You leaned in and kissed her, slow and steady, with none of the urgency from earlier. It wasn’t about wanting. It was about having.
And when you both finally pulled away, bodies entangled beneath the covers, you let the silence hold you for once.
No teasing. No biting. No banter.
Just the two of you, breathing in sync.
Sleep found you like that—arms wrapped around each other, legs locked, your satisfied grin still tucked into her collarbone.
note: look, bbf!riri has been stuck in my head for weeks and i can't get rid of her so this is the result of that. this can also be sort of unofficial bonus content for my last bbf!riri fic, hook, line, and sinker. hope you enjoy! mwah! mwah!
childhood:
˚₊· ͟͟͞͞➳❥ bbf!riri who’s always just been there. you don’t remember exactly when your brother met her, just how normal it was to come downstairs on saturday mornings to her on the couch, eating cereal, and watching cartoons. your brother nowhere in sight.
˚₊· ͟͟͞͞➳❥ speaking of cereal, bbf!riri who always, always eats the last of the lucky charms because they’re ‘her favorite too’, and it’s ‘first come first serve.’ even though they’re yours, even though this is your house. and she always gets away with it too, because riri can do no wrong in your mom’s eyes.
“she ate my cereal again.” you whine, resisting the urge to stomp your foot.
“we can always buy more.” your mom states matter of factly, as though that’s the issue, and not riri’s lack of respect or boundaries.
˚₊· ͟͟͞͞➳❥ bbf!riri who you deem your nemesis at 10. (you learn the word after watching phineas and ferb.) riri is sitting on the couch with you and your brother one morning, and you feel something snap inside you after watching a particular scene between dr. doofenshmirtz and perry the platypus.
˚₊· ͟͟͞͞➳❥ bbf!riri who sneaks out of class when she’s in 5th grade to make sure you get a cupcake on her birthday. you’re a grade below her, but she still makes sure to share with you.
˚₊· ͟͟͞͞➳❥ bbf!riri who spends the night at your house almost every night, even on school nights.
˚₊· ͟͟͞͞➳❥ bbf!riri who teases you about your braces at 13 (even though she has ’em too)
“close the door. you’re letting all the hot air in.” you demand, popping a hot fry into your mouth.
riri slides the glass door shut, but who would she be if she doesn’t say something slick? “ask nicely next time, metal mouth.”
you roll your eyes, not giving her the attention she’s clearly seeking.
“you even supposed to be eating those?” she laughs, nodding to your half empty bag of hot fries as she lifts a bottle of water to her mouth.
“why do you even care?” you feel that flare in your chest, a rage only brought on by your brother’s best friend.
“don’t. just think it’s tragic that you gotta have all that hardware in your mouth.”
“you literally had braces last year.”
“true. but at least i look cute in mine.” her last words before she slipped back into the backyard with your brother.
˚₊· ͟͟͞͞➳❥ as annoying as she is at your house, school is different. riri always has your back. anytime someone picks on you, she’s the first one in their face. she may or may not have gotten suspended more than once for defending your honor. like the time she decked that girl who called your braces ugly and laughed at your teeth. but of course, she’ll never admit that…
late teens (18/19):
˚₊· ͟͟͞͞➳❥ bbf!riri who’s always tinkering with something in your garage. the sound of her hammer clanking against metal, the hiss of her blowtorch, the constant whirring of her drill, it all bleeds into the living room, ruining any chance you have of watching tv in peace. you bang on the garage door more times than you can count, yelling at her to knock it off. she never does.
˚₊· ͟͟͞͞➳❥ bbf!riri who you argue with constantly. literally not a day goes by without some kind of altercation. and it’s always petty stuff that your brother refuses to get involved in.
“riri, did you really unplug my phone to charge your stupid gauntlet?”
“well for one, my gauntlet isn’t stupid. it’s fully functioning and could potentially save the world one day. and two, your phone is dry as hell anyway, nobody hitting your line, so what’s the big deal?”
“you just gonna let her talk to me like that?” you turn to your brother, expecting him to defend you.
but instead, he looks between the both of you, totally unbothered, and keeps walking, still eating his cereal. “i’m not in it,” he mumbles, mouth half full.
˚₊· ͟͟͞͞➳❥ bbf!riri who always has unsolicited comments about your love life.
“that light skin stud with locs is not going to save you, be for real.”
your brother laughs from beside you, and you punch his arm.
“she's a walking red flag, but you be acting like you color blind.”
“i will literally strangle the fuck out of you riri.”
riri grins, mumbling under her breath, “don’t threaten me with a good time.”
˚₊· ͟͟͞͞➳❥ bbf!riri who drives you home when you get extremely drunk at a party that you totally weren't supposed to be at. she helps you into the house and up the stairs to your room.
˚₊· ͟͟͞͞➳❥ you barely have time to recognize that it’s riri holding your braids back before you start to empty your stomach into the toilet. she’s rubbing circles into your back and wiping your mouth when you’re done.
˚₊· ͟͟͞͞➳❥ bbf!riri who tucks you into bed afterwards.
˚₊· ͟͟͞͞➳❥ she also leaves advil and a glass of water on your nightstand for when you wake up. and when you venture downstairs in the morning, head pounding, you see that she’s laying on the couch, nose buried in her phone.
riri shuffles over when she spots you at the bottom of the stairs. “you look like hell.”
“i feel like hell. my head’s killing me.”
she laughs under her breath. “you, uh… take the advil i left for you?”
you nod.
“good. good.”
her fingers fidget, eyes dropping to her feet. “you really can’t hold your liquor.”
“an unfortunate lesson. but… thanks for bringing me home. and, hopefully, not telling my mom?”
she glances up with a small smile. “you know i gotchu.”
and the way she says it, soft, almost careful, you hear something else in it.
you know i gotchu
and suddenly, it means more than just covering for you.
˚₊· ͟͟͞͞➳❥ you’re staring. riri’s half under the kitchen sink, fixing something, a leak, a pipe, who knows. doesn’t matter. what matters is the waistband of her briefs peeking out just above her low-slung cargos. the way her shirt rides up just enough to show off a sliver of toned abs. you bite your lip. you tell yourself to look away, but the visual pulls you in, steady and magnetic. closer and closer and clos–
“all done.”
riri slides out from under the sink, sudden enough to make you jump.
“huh?” you blink, still a little dazed, still very much staring at her stomach, her grease-smudged shirt still riding up.
“i said i’m done. garbage disposal’s fixed.”
“oh. right.”
she narrows her eyes slightly. “you good? you seem… distracted.”
“a little– i mean, i’m fine. thanks for fixing the, uh, the thingy. i’ll go tell my mom.”
you turn too fast, practically bolting, not waiting for her to say anything else.
but you hear her low laugh behind you.
you don’t have to look to know she’s still watching you walk away.
20s:
˚₊· ͟͟͞͞➳❥ bbf!riri who you may or may not have a crush on now? you have no idea how you got here and why, but now you can't stop thinking about her. you get excited when she comes over now, open the door for her all giddy and smiley. but it doesn't usually last, because well, she’s riri…
“hey ri!” you're smiling at her as she stands on the other side of the threshold.
“you should really thank your moms for those braces. they pulled off an impossible job.”
and just like that, your smile was fading and your eyes were rolling as you slam the door after she comes inside.
˚₊· ͟͟͞͞➳❥ bbf!riri who you catch staring at you from across the room. she has this look in her eyes like she just knows you were staring at her too. and you don't look away. the two of you just hold each other's gazes.
˚₊· ͟͟͞͞➳❥ you hear her asking your brother if you're seeing anyone.
“aye, your sister still with that one girl?”
“nah. think they broke up,” he answers, oblivious as ever. “but she's apparently going on a date tomorrow night. i don't know, she always got something going on with somebody. i can't keep up with that shit.”
˚₊· ͟͟͞͞➳❥ riri’s in a mood the entire next day. you catch her glaring at you from time to time. her attitude really seems to get worse when she sees you getting ready for your date. she goes from mildly annoyed to full blown furious, even snapping on your brother when he asked if she was good.
“i said i’m straight. damn.” she mutters, even though not a single thing about her demeanor conveys that.
˚₊· ͟͟͞͞➳❥ you miss her like crazyyyyy when she leaves for MIT. but what are you supposed to do about that? she's your brother's best friend, not yours. you can't just text her to see how she's doing. can’t just call to hear her voice.
˚₊· ͟͟͞͞➳❥ bbf!riri who likes all your ig posts but never comments.
˚₊· ͟͟͞͞➳❥ so you add her to your close friends.
that should get her attention…
˚₊· ͟͟͞͞➳❥ bbf!riri who slides up on your story:
˚₊· ͟͟͞͞➳❥ bbf!riri who's trying desperately to get you alone when she comes home for summer break. but you're making her work for it.
˚₊· ͟͟͞͞➳❥ until she gets tired of the games, and corners you in the garage after your brother falls asleep.
“you gon stop making me work so hard?” she's leaning against the door that leads back into the house, blocking your escape.
“didn't plan to.”
riri smirks.
“ole girl still in the picture?” she questions, brow jumping in faux curiosity.
“you don't care.” you laugh dryly, failing to conceal your grin.
“i don't.”
“so, what you gonna do, ri?” you step forward, impulse tugging you towards her.
riri pushes her back off the door, “come here. lemme show you.”
˚₊· ͟͟͞͞➳❥ bbf!riri who kisses you like she’d die without the taste of your lips. all heat and hunger, and desperation. like she's been starving herself in preparation for this very moment, and now that she has you, she must consume you.
˚₊· ͟͟͞͞➳❥ she makes you promise not to tell your brother.
“we can't– he can't know…” she's panting, chest heaving like she might pass out as she stares at you, as though you are all that exists in the world—her world.
˚₊· ͟͟͞͞➳❥ she texts you after she leaves for the night, sending your heart into overdrive
nsfw:
˚₊· ͟͟͞͞➳❥ riri is HELLA freaked out, which shouldn't be surprising, but it still kinda is.
˚₊· ͟͟͞͞➳❥ bbf!riri who loves sending you dirty texts while your brother’s in the room, just to watch you squirm. she knows exactly what she’s doing. she knows you’ll blush, then glance around, searching for her. and when you finally find her across the room, she’s already looking away, wearing that smug little smirk like she has no idea why you’re shifting in your seat.
˚₊· ͟͟͞͞➳❥ bbf!riri who sneaks into your room in the middle of the night, after your brother falls asleep, with only one thing on her mind.
“i missed you.” you open your arms wide to pull her in.
riri leans in and kisses you roughly, “then take these panties off and show me how much. we don't got all night.”
˚₊· ͟͟͞͞➳❥ bbf!riri who takes every opportunity to smack your ass when no one is around to see. she always makes sure to cop a feel too, but you aren't complaining.
˚₊· ͟͟͞͞➳❥ bbf!riri who gets horny just by watching you do your makeup in her backseat. especially your lip combo. it takes everything in her not to pull the car over and climb on top of you in the back, ready to kiss your gloss right off your mouth. but then she remembers you're not alone, and your brother is sitting right beside her in the passenger seat.
˚₊· ͟͟͞͞➳❥ bbf!riri who has a breeding kink. she fucks you like she's tryna get you pregnant, and fuck you just might let her because you're both delusional enough to believe that she actually can.
“you gon let me come inside you baby? fill this pretty pussy all the way up? hmm?”
your eyes are rolling, tears spilling as she drives her thick strap into your welcoming heat.
“yes ri!” you cry out, vision blurring. “mark this pussy baby, it's all yours!”
“ima fuck a baby into this pretty pussy. you want that? for me to get you pregnant?”
you can hear it in her voice, the desperation, the need. like her entire grip on reality is hanging by a thread, and that thread is you. her breathing’s uneven, her hands trembling against your skin. she’s holding back, but just barely. you know the second you give her permission, the second you whisper that soft, wrecked yes… she's gonna lose it. she's going to come undone with you wrapped around her dick as she destroys your innocence.
and you grant it to her.
“yes. i want all of you in me, every drop. give it to me. get me pregnant, put a baby in me, riri!”
you feel it, her cum, thick and warm as it spills into, coating your already sticky walls. riri releases a guttural moan, but never do her thrusts stutter. she fucks you with precision and intent.
“take it all baby. i know you can, sooo g-good f-for me… take all of me.”
˚₊· ͟͟͞͞➳❥ she spends days perfecting her strap designs. and just has to test them out on you, for research purposes obviously.
“and how is this different from the last one?” you giggle.
“well, lemme put it in and you’ll see.” riri was kneeling above you, stroking the new strap that just needed to be tested out tonight.
you're soaked when she spreads your legs, and she smiles. she rubs the tip up against your clit and you whimper.
“put it in.”
riri doesn't hesitate. she's sliding into your pussy without hesitation, her hips stuttering upon entrance, thrusts already sloppy. this isn't how she typically fucks you.
she pulls out for just a moment, trying to catch her breath, chest heaving. riri’s panting harder than usual, her moans slipping out louder, rougher, almost desperate. her nails dig into your skin like she’s trying to anchor herself, hold on to something real. her eyes are shut tight, jaw clenched, like she’s not just with you, she’s–
“ri? c-can you feel m-me?”
“mhmm…” she chokes the sound out, just barely. “so fucking t-tight.”
this changes everything…
˚₊· ͟͟͞͞➳❥ riri is an impatient lover. when she wants you, she wants you. right then, right there. no waiting, no warming up. and if she can’t have you the second the urge hits? she gets pissy. short-tempered. touch-starved and irritated like her skin’s on fire. you love when she gets like that. because it means the moment she finally gets her hands on you, she’s not holding back.
“you been teasing me…” she mutters, already unbuckling her pants, eyes locked on you like a challenge.
you sit there, all wide-eyed and fake-innocent, lips parted just enough to play dumb.
but she knows better. she sees the twitch of a smirk hiding there.
“what you gonna do about it?” you ask, voice soft, taunting.
riri steps in close, close enough that you feel her breath fan across your cheek, her fingers curling under your chin to tilt your head up.
“you’re still teasing me,” her jaw clenches. her eyes flick down to your mouth, then lower. her voice drops. “you like seeing me like this?”
“maybe.”
riri pushes you back onto the bed, hard, and you bounce a little on the mattress. you can't help but giggle.
she climbs on top of you and her hand moves to your throat, not squeezing, just there, possessive, grounding. her thighs are on either side of yours, holding you in place underneath her.
“you think i’m gon take my time now? after you been walking around all day acting like you didn’t know exactly what you were doing?”
your breath catches, but you don’t back down.
she leans in, lips barely brushing your ear, “i’m going to fuck the shit out of you.”
˚₊· ͟͟͞͞➳❥ bbf!riri who loves when you mark her up with hickies and bite marks. they raise lots of questions, because riri isn't publicly seeing anyone. but you know, and she knows, and that's what matters. it's part of the thrill of sneaking around, and it turns you both on.
˚₊· ͟͟͞͞➳❥ bbf!riri who masturbates to your instagram. and proudly too. she confesses that she used to do it before you two got together.
“ain't no shame in my game. i know what i like to nut to.”
“you're a pervert, oh my god!”
“okay? and yo nasty ass like that shit too.”
˚₊· ͟͟͞͞➳❥ loves when you suck her strap.
˚₊· ͟͟͞͞➳❥ loves getting head more.
˚₊· ͟͟͞͞➳❥ loves giving you head more than anything else. if you let her, she’d spend hours between your thighs—lost in it, addicted. her tongue moves slow, then fast, sucking your clit until it’s swollen and aching, until you’re begging her to stop. but she doesn’t stop. because she knows you don’t really want her to. you want her to keep going until your legs are trembling, until you’re crying, until she’s sucked you dry and your body’s soaked in sweat, pooling between your breasts. and she lives for that. for the way you fall apart just for her.
˚₊· ͟͟͞͞➳❥ riri loves sucking your cum off her fingers when she's done fingering you, keeping eye contact with you the whole time.
˚₊· ͟͟͞͞➳❥ bbf!riri who begs for nudes when she's back at school.
˚₊· ͟͟͞͞➳❥ bbf!riri who always lets you come first. and second, and third, fourth…
˚₊· ͟͟͞͞➳❥ backshots… what would riri do without backshots? who would she be without them? after a long day of saving the city, she likes to unwind by fucking you from the back and watching your hole swallow her dick again and again. it relaxes her.
˚₊· ͟͟͞͞➳❥ riri loves when you ride her thigh. she loves to make you work for your orgasm and you like to impress her. she also loves the snail trail you leave behind on her leg.
˚₊· ͟͟͞͞➳❥ bbf!riri who wakes up in your room the next morning. still sore, legs aching. she wasn't supposed to spend the night, but after round after round, orgasm after orgasm, and hearing you cry her name again and again, how could she leave you?
bonus:
˚₊· ͟͟͞͞➳❥ bbf!riri who sneaks out of your room at 6:42 a.m., hoodie half on, socks balled in one hand, shoes in the other, trying not to make the floorboards creak. she was supposed to spend the night in the basement with your brother—her best friend, but of course, once he knocked out, she crept upstairs to your room. she slips into the hallway, thinking the coast is clear. until she hits the bottom of the stairs and sees her best friend, still groggy, coming up from the basement.
they both freeze.
“i was uh–i, came up to uh–and i was just–” she stammers, caught mid-step, looking like a kid stealing from the cookie jar.
he blinks, squinting at her. “sleeping with my sister?”
riri’s eyes go wide, lips parting, "uh... i–"
“don’t worry, i’m just fucking with you,” he says, waving her off with a yawn. “i don’t care what y’all are doing. just keep it far, far away from me.”
riri exhales like she’d been holding her breath the whole time.
“yeah. totally. got it. far away. like… different zip code.” she laughs nervously.
summary: it takes strength to hold back, to show true restraint against the things that test you. riri had that strength—once. but slowly, it began to slip. sleepless nights wore her down, guilt digging deeper, weakening her grip. she could feel the fragile line fraying, dreading the moment it would snap entirely.
word count: 12.8k
contents: angst, themes involving death & grief, survivor's guilt, lots yearning, SMUT (18+), smoking, zariri back together!, hakeem might be finally getting it y'all, riri is obsessed and pining, lyinggg, mommy issues
note: hii my lovelies! part 5 is here and we have smut! i know y'all been waiting on this one, but it might not be exactly what you think hehe! every time i write this fic i'm reminded of how weak i truly am because riri wouldn't have to do much to get me to fold. i get why zariyah is the way that she is, i TOO, would always go back. but anywhoooo, we're so close to FINALLY getting what we're all here for, y'all just gotta bare with me for a smidge bit longer. BARE WITH MEE! anyway, hope y'all enjoy another journey through riri's brain, (i didn't) mwah, mwah <333
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It was safe to say that Riri was not a fan of stagnancy—she viewed it as a punishment. Because although her body understood the concept of silently sitting still, her mind did not. The voice inside of her head screamed louder than the world, a fate she was accustomed to, yet, one she detested all the same.
It was easy to distract her brain from the chaos consuming her life, by staying in her garage, by working on her suit. That way, she was in control of the thoughts being birthed, thoughts that consisted of equations, and algorithms, and dimensions. Anything irrelevant to her work got shoved into the deepest parts of her skull—unretrievable unless she was alone, or, in the setting she currently resided in.
In front of Dr. Fring—her therapist.
It’d been weeks since her last session, an intentional act on Riri’s end. She ignored emails and texts, dodged phone calls, the young genius even went out of her way to abandon her favorite hardware store, simply because she knew Dr. Fring frequented the coffee shop right around the corner. A lot of effort to avoid a single person, sure, but Riri deemed her actions worth it. She wanted to evade that fracture in time’s veil for as long as she could.
Yet somehow, ending up here was inevitable.
Riri chose to beget her own stagnancy now, because as much as she tried, she could never outrun her thoughts, her feelings. They were as real as she was, and it didn't take a licensed professional to help her realize that. She needed Dr. Fring for reassurance though, however condescending she thought the woman to be, Riri could admit her guidance was warranted.
Without her therapist, she found herself in a self-deprecating loop with no end, one where she relentlessly punished herself for the things she felt but shouldn't feel, images she couldn't sleep away, and a monster she could never escape. He fed on her guilt and she let him, thinking herself deserving of the pain.
“Why them and not you?”
“What makes you so special?”
Perched on her shoulder, he’d whisper sour nothings in her ear, filling her stillness with his devilish murmur. And because she hadn't an angel in the other ear, equipped with combative words of their own, she found herself believing him.
That was until, Dr. Fring entered the chat. She challenged those beliefs, spent months chipping away at the barricades protecting them, all in attempts to strengthen Riri’s self image, and she appreciated the older woman's efforts wholeheartedly. But in true Riri Williams’ fashion, she could never admit that out loud, nor could she make the task an easy one.
Riri sat across from Dr. Fring, sizing her up like a predator would its prey. Time dragged like molasses down a cold wall, each second clinging stubbornly to the clock’s hands just to spite her. Riri sat there, arms crossed and jaw clenched, watching the minutes crawl by like they had nothing better to do.
“Riri? Would you like me to repeat the question?” She regarded the short girl with a pleasant smile, one untested by Riri’s sullen demeanor.
Dr. Fring was a slender, fair skinned woman who wore circular wire rimmed glasses, and a red lip, always. It was unclear to Riri if the shade of red varied upon each visit, she didn't see the woman nearly enough to notice, nor did she quite care. What she did note though, was the signature way her therapist’s blood stained lips would stretch into that mocking smile each time she was made to repeat a question Riri purposely ignored.
She was so smug, so proud of her ability to see through Riri’s facade, as if she wasn't already painstakingly aware that her cunning held no weight in this room, in her presence. Out there, in the real world, Riri got away with so much, was able to hide so much—too much.
But not here. And she loathed every single second of it.
Riri huffed, “Uh, yeah.”
“I asked how you’ve been. It's been some time since our last session, so I’d like to know what brought you back today.”
Riri chuckled to herself, “Well, I’m here, so what does that tell you about how I’ve been?”
“You know, you don't always have to answer my questions with snarky ones of your own. This is a safe space, your safe space, it is perfectly okay to say what you're thinking.”
“See that's where you're wrong Doc.”
Dr. Fring tilted her head to the side, her freshly retwisted locs swaying with the motion, inquiring the same as her. “Help me understand what you mean.”
“You said it's perfectly okay to say what I’m thinking.”
“Correct.”
Riri shook her head, “That's not true.”
“Why do you believe that?”
Riri sensed the genuine curiosity in the woman's words, and she rolled her eyes involuntarily; she wasn't really in the mood to explain why her thoughts were fucked up, and how much they infringed on her morals. But, she supposed that was the point of her decision to come here today—to open up.
It took her a moment to respond, too busy overthinking her answer, still believing there was indeed a wrong one, and she couldn't chance repeating it. “I uh… I’ve been having the dreams again.”
Riri hoped this sentence would be enough to convey the weight of her sorrows, and when Dr. Fring sighed apologetically, she knew her confession was received.
“For how long?”
“Off and on, for the past few weeks…” Riri exhaled, “But uh, it was really bad this past weekend.”
Dr. Fring nodded as she scribbled away in her beloved purple notebook, “Did something happen over the weekend that could've triggered them?”
“I guess you could say that.”
She allowed her mind to think back to Sunday night, and everything that happened. And then she couldn't stop her thoughts from drifting further and further back, fighting to pinpoint the exact moment her demise began. They landed on you, just as she knew they would, and Riri shuddered. You always placed yourself at the forefront of her memories, existing as the object of all her desires.
Riri could feel her therapist’s eyes on her. The woman was studying her contorting face, dissecting her, assessing her internal struggle in preparation for her next question. “You’ve said before that the nightmares often come when you’re feeling guilty, when something is weighing heavily on you. Can you tell me what’s been happening lately, Riri?”
Her eyes flickered towards Dr. Fring before dropping back to her lap, voice tight. “I don't know. It's just… everything’s been too much.”
“I know things can feel overwhelming, but something has triggered these nightmares again. And it's okay to talk about them.”
Riri shook her head, her breaths shallow. She could feel the words building up in her throat, clawing desperately at her flesh; they wanted out, but she wouldn't let them. “It's uh, it's not that simple Doc.”
She was avoiding eye contact with Dr. Fring, finding fascination in the arm of the couch, her fingers familiarizing themselves with the idle threads residing there. This was also another attempt to keep her mouth shut. If she wasn't looking at Dr. Fring, her thoughts would remain on the inside. Sound logic, to her anyway.
But said logic did not keep the shame at bay. It continued to rise in the back of her throat like stinging bile, choking her as she struggled to swallow it back down. She shouldn't even be considering it, saying everything out loud. She'd only just admitted it all to herself recently, and look how well she's handled it since. Admitting this to Dr. Fring could change everything.
There were a million “what if's” banging against Riri’s skull, on top of everything else she wished she wasn't thinking.
“What if she thinks I’m a horrible person?”
“What if she's disappointed in me?”
“Or worse…what if I say the bad thing out loud, she understands, and then I’ll have to actually face it?”
“I know it feels that way, but you don't have to carry this on your own. I can see how much you're struggling with whatever this is, and I can assure you, we can talk it through. No judgment, just understanding.”
Riri sighed, “How can you understand something I don't even fully understand myself?”
“Okay, so explain to me the parts that you do understand.”
There was a pause, one that felt like it dragged on forever as Riri sat there. She pulled her legs onto the couch, tucking them beneath herself, as if trying to appear smaller than she already was. When she opened her mouth to speak, her typically steady voice cracked along with her defenses, and they began to falter.
“These thoughts I’m having, these feelings, they’re uh… they're keeping me up at night.” She began, eyeing Dr. Fring shamefully.
The doctor nodded for her to continue.
“Every night, when I close my eyes, I-I see my dad, I see Natalie. And it's like I’m right back there, frozen, watching it all happen again—watching them die. I’m reliving that pain over and over, feeling that guilt, and I’m reminded of the worst thing I've ever done.”
Dr. Fring straightened her back, leaning in with quiet intensity toward the trembling girl, her gaze sharp and unwavering, “Riri, we’ve talked about this. What happened to your loved ones was not your fault. You didn't do anything w–”
“Yes, I did. I survived. I walked away and they didn't. I got a second chance I clearly didn't deserve, because now I'm fucking it all up. And every time I try to sleep, I see them, and I can tell they're ashamed of me.”
“Why do you think they're ashamed of you?”
“Because Dr. Fring, I’m not a good person,” She blew a jagged breath, frantically swatting at tears that had escaped unnoticed. “I keep hurting the people I care about.” Riri could feel her chest constricting as she said the words, ignoring her body’s pleas for her to bolt.
Dr. Fring’s voice was calm and steady as she tried to ground Riri, “You aren't messing everything up, you're hurting. You've been through so much, and it's normal to have thoughts that don't align with who you want to be. That doesn't make you a bad person, it just makes you someone who's trying to find their way through all the pain.”
This response snapped a chord inside the girl, and immediately, her tear-filled eyes turned wild and accusing. “Have you been listening to anything I’ve said? I’m hurting people. I had a fight with Zariyah, and it was completely my fault, I hurt her.”
“She wants someone who's gonna give her commitment, and stability. And that can never be me, because the feelings she wants me to have for her… they belong to someone else already,” She couldn't stop the words gushing out, her voice panicky, burdened with remorse. “They belong to someone I shouldn't even have those types of feelings for. I shouldn't but I do, and it's a fucking struggle not to act on them, and my best friend, he’s–”
And then she stopped. “Actually, no. I'm not gonna do this. I don't have to do this.”
“Riri, wait a sec–”
She had risen to her feet before Dr. Fring could complete her sentence, reaching for her backpack hurriedly. “I gotta get to class.”
The puzzled expression on the older woman's face was anticipated, but Riri decided it was far too late to amend that. She dashed past Dr. Fring, a little skeptical in her decision to flee, but instinct seemed mightier than hesitation right now. Riri stormed out of the therapy office, the heavy door crashing shut behind her with a deafening echo.
•••
Quick, unsteady steps guided Riri on her path back to campus, her mind still spinning from the near disaster in Dr. Fring’s office. Her pounding heartbeat had still been present, a chaotic rhythm that presented no signs of stopping despite the increasing distance she put between herself and her therapist. But beneath the frantic beat, there was an undeniable sense of relief—she’d escaped before saying too much, before she revealed the feelings that threatened to unravel everything.
It scared her how close she'd been to admitting it, to letting the shameful truth spill out about her feelings for you. Had she been a bit more fragile, Dr. Fring’s tactics surely would've shattered her cracking disposition. Riri prided herself on her restraint, ignoring the tension pooled in the depths of her empty stomach. Who needed food when she had crippling guilt to feast on?
Yet still, with every step closer to class, she sensed something else brewing beneath all that guilt, something she didn’t want to acknowledge, but couldn’t suppress: excitement. The anticipation of seeing you tugged at her, and even though she knew it was wrong—especially because she knew it was wrong—it was the only thing she could focus on.
Riri’s breath hitched, her thoughts racing competitively against her heart. She despised herself for it, for the way her stomach fluttered at the idea of seeing your face, of being near you, even if she didn’t deserve it. The panicked drumming in her chest from leaving Dr. Fring’s office hadn’t slowed, but she knew—without question—that the second she saw you, it would change, morph into a different thing entirely. Her heart would still race, but it wouldn’t be from fear or shame. It would be the quickened, excited beat she’d come to crave, the one she welcomed whenever you were around.
The difference terrified her, but it did not deter her, because she wanted it—wanted you—all the same.
When she entered the classroom, her eager eyes scanned the room in search of you, but the action proved fruitless, because you had not yet arrived. This didn't seem to throw her though, it only heightened her anticipation.
One of Riri’s favorite things to do was watch you, and arriving before you awarded her the opportunity to do so. It was wrong, she knew that, but in those quiet moments when you remained unaware of her scrutiny, the guilt slipped away. She allowed herself to admire you, to take in all your delicate details as though each of your features were secrets she was meant to discover. Her favorite place to watch you was in class. To her, this was the most intimate setting, where she could witness not only your beauty and grace, but also your intelligence.
Your genius existed as a force field surrounding you, an invisible, yet palpable aura that radiated in every direction. It wasn't visible, but everyone in proximity could sense its presence; it’s the thing that drew Riri to you on that very first day of class. Quiet, unforeseen, lulling—like the subtle hum of electricity in the air before a storm—she just wished she knew how dangerous it would be before getting caught in the eye of it.
But that ceased to matter now anyway, because here she was, climbing the steps to the last row in the class, all in preparation for you, her calm and her storm.
And your entrance was one that marveled. It was almost as though you knew she was awaiting you, eager to study you from a distance, desperate to see you tense under her revision. You strode in on a preexisting high, moving effortlessly through the other students, their sea parting for you with ease.
Your ruby locs haloed you like a setting sun, reflecting on your rich complexion with shades of crimson and gold. Riri's focus hadn't existed on anything apart from you, and off just that one glance, she felt ready to surrender to you, as completely as the sky surrenders to the night.
Her gaze wandered, tracing the outline of your figure as you walked to your seat. Your outfit was impossible to ignore—a cropped knit sweater that hugged your sculpted arms and shoulders just right, its patchwork of soft browns and creams forming a gentle harmony against the smooth expanse of your skin. The sweater left enough room to reveal a white top underneath, perfectly accentuating the curve of your chest, drawing Riri’s eyes like a magnet.
She nearly choked on her own spit when her gaze ventured lower, to the high-waisted cargos sitting snugly on your hips, clinging to you in all the right places. Her stomach tightened. She knew she shouldn't stare, but realistically, how was she expected not to? When your exposed waist moved so hypnotically as you got closer and closer to her.
Riri’s eyes were lingering longer than she typically permitted them to, and a heat wave crashed down on her as her sinful mind drifted to places they shouldn't.
How good would it feel to trace her digits along your waist? To run her hands over the fabric resting there, to sense the feeling of your skin beneath hers?
Quickly, Riri caught herself, trying to look away before anyone noticed the desperation flooding her pupils. But, it was too late, because you were standing next to her now, towering over her small, flushed physique like an Amazonian.
Your eyes met as you slowly sank in the seat two chairs over from hers, and she was certain you heard her heart screaming on its plummet into her stomach. You looked… amused, and the smug expression on your features only heightened her ever-growing embarrassment. She shifted all her focus to her iPad, pretending to focus on the nonexistent notes residing on the screen. But her mind was racing, her thoughts still buzzing with guilt and shame, knowing she’d been caught in the act of wanting something she wasn’t supposed to.
Fuck.
Fuck!
God, she was losing it, and it was getting increasingly worse—bad enough that you seemed to be catching on. Even with her eyes glued to her iPad, Riri knew you were looking at her; she sensed your glare on her person, and it made her skin tingle. And when she turned, she indeed did discover your eyes on her, stealing shy glances as you unpacked your bag.
Typically, this would be the moment she’d take hold of opportunity, allowing something sly and condescending to slither off her tongue, something she knew would get under your skin. But she couldn't. Her session with Dr. Fring brought up memories and feelings she liked to keep buried, and they were throwing her off her game.
“Hey.”
You muttered it softly, barely above a whisper, but Riri heard it. It shocked her honestly—the fact that you chose to speak to her after she turned your weekend into a shit-show. Maybe you’d accepted her apology, and were trying to move forward. But even the thought of that sounded too good to be true in her head.
Riri’s eyes traced a slow path up your exposed chest, lingering on your throat, skimming over your glossed lips, before finally letting them rest on yours. There was a question in your gaze, a curious look that seemed to wait for something—an answer, perhaps, or at least a reaction from Riri. But words remained absent. Her mouth hung agape as she watched you nervously, and before she could find the right thing to say, Dr. Lucas’ voice filled her ears, breaking through the tension; he was beginning his lecture.
“Imagine a world where one infected person could cause a global pandemic. How do we predict the spread? How can we stop it?” He started, and you were already scribbling away in your notes like the little teacher’s pet you were. Riri laughed to herself as she watched you, shaking her head at your eagerness.
Class unfolded as it typically did: Riri watched you intently from her seat, as you held all of your attention on Dr. Lucas and his boring lecture. His voice, flat and unenthused, blurred into the dull hum of the classroom, barely snagging her attention. Every now and then, Riri tuned in, just enough to catch fragments of his lecture—hearing something about the SIR model, and how differential equations could predict people's movements between each group in the model.
He jotted something down on the board, then turned back to face the class. “People start here, in the susceptible group, which is everyone who could potentially get the disease. Then, some of these people get infected and move into this group—the infected. Finally, they either recover or are removed, so they move here—to the recovered group.”
But the details slipped away as quickly as they came, because she found you to be far more captivating.
Riri sat back in her chair, her iPad screen blank, notebook open but untouched, her pen resting idly in her palm. You had her undivided attention, unknowingly of course, because unlike her, you were fully absorbed in Dr. Lucas’ lesson.
This was her opportunity to see your mind work up close—she studied you like you were the lesson being taught.
Your brow furrowed in concentration, eyes narrowed slightly as you absorbed each of the professor's utterances. And then there was the moment it all clicked for you. She witnessed understanding spread all across your face, your eyes lit up just slightly as you lifted your shiny lips into a confident smile.
Riri felt an overwhelming sense of pride rush her heart. She loved how excited you got when you fully grasped a concept, like you’d conquered something no one else could. Your grin reminded her of that day you helped her work on Hakeem's car in her garage. She hadn't expected your extensive knowledge on the inner workings of the vehicle; she was wrong about you, but she took the ego hit in stride.
She found it difficult to tear her eyes away from you in those moments, devoid of guilt and shame. These stolen moments were her secret, her only allowed alone time with you, even if the two of you weren't truly alone. But it felt like that to Riri, like this was your space, away from the Zariyah, and the Hakeem of it all. Just you and her.
It should feel wrong but it didn't.
Was it? Truly?
As she pondered her inner turmoil, Riri suddenly became aware of your big brown eyes on her. She knitted her eyebrows in confusion, then she noted the uncomfortable silence filling the lecture hall. She blinked, realizing too late that Dr. Lucas was now staring at her, his face expectant, similar to yours. The faint murmur of a question reached her ears, but she had no idea what he’d asked.
Her heart skipped as the realization set in—he’d caught her not paying attention, completely zoned out and absorbed in something, or rather someone, else entirely.
“Miss Williams?” He cocked his brow.
Riri cleared his throat, her cheeks scorching, “Uh, what?”
“I asked, if the infection rate suddenly doubles in the SIR model, what happens to the number of people moving from the susceptible group to the infected group?”
She couldn't answer.
“No pressure—just the fate of humanity at stake here.” He laughed smugly.
“Well uh, I think if–”
“If the infection rate doubles, the number of people moving from the susceptible group to the infected group also increases dramatically. The rate of infection will spike, meaning the disease spreads much faster, and we’ll see a steeper rise in cases over a shorter time.” You chimed in for her, not missing a beat.
Riri rolled her eyes, unaware of what had triggered her sudden mood shift. All she knew was that irritation had crept in, and now she was annoyed.
But your answer did take the focus off her, so she was grateful for that at least, and she decided to finally tune in to the exchange between you and Dr. Lucas.
“That's correct. And what effect would that have on the overall shape of the epidemic curve?”
“It would make the curve much steeper, with an earlier peak and more cases at once, which could overwhelm healthcare systems.” You grinned.
“Excellent. Even though you aren't Miss Williams.” He turned back to Riri, “I hope you wrote that down. But if not, I’m sure you'll get a chance to, seeing as I’ve decided to make you two partners on your upcoming project.”
“You’ve got to be kidding me.” Riri huffed.
“You’re joking!” You exclaimed.
He shook his head, “Fraid not. I'm as serious as a spreading infectious disease.” He chuckled at his own joke. “The rest of you can find your respective partners on the list I have posted in the front, along with your list of topics.”
And just like that, class ended. But as students shuffled to leave, your gaze locked onto Riri’s, piercing straight into her soul—though not in the way she’d imagined countless times before.
•••
No matter what Riri did, it seemed she could never put real distance between the pair of you. Not that she’d really tried—if she was being honest, she wasn’t even sure she ever had. You were always just there, effortlessly present in her life, and though she’d never admit it out loud, she secretly loved that.
And now, it seemed even Dr. Lucas wanted you two to share space. Was the universe playing some sort of sick prank on her? How was she supposed to stay away from you, if even school projects were determined to keep you two close? And why was she so irritated by this notion?
This was all she could think about as she hurried behind your long, determined strides.
“Damn, slow yo ass down.” She cried, growing more impatient by the second. She must've looked so desperate to the other students passing by.
“Gotta get to work, sorry.”
You kept walking, and each of your steps ignited a flare in Riri’s chest, the one that always flickered to life whenever she was made to watch you walk away from her.
She finally caught up to you, stopping you dead in your tracks, and she could tell by the jarred expression in your eyes, that you had not expected it. “So we not gon talk about the project?”
“It's not due til next week, we have plenty of time to talk about it, but I really gotta get to work.”
“Benny gon be alright until you get there. But this…” She gestured between the two of you, holding your stare as she spoke. “This is more important.”
The ambiguity of her words hung heavily in the air, their underlying, double meaning stifling her. And Riri could tell you felt it just as she did. She heard the hitch in your breath when you inhaled, and not once did you blink as you looked down at her, not once did you rip your eyes from her soft, yearning ones.
“The project… you mean?” Your voice rippled through the quiet surrounding you two, sounding accusatory.
Riri laughed dryly, “W-What else would I mean?”
“Can we talk about this later?” You began walking again, and of course, Riri was on your heels.
“You know you didn't have to answer that question for me in class. I would’ve figured it out.”
She was strolling behind you, taking the opportunity to glance at your ass with a satisfied smirk.
“Yeah, so why didn't you?”
“I was uh… distracted.”
“Right...” You whipped around to face her. “So look I gotta go. I get off at eight. If you wanna talk about the project after that, you know where I live. That work for you?”
She heard you speaking to her, but the incessant buzzing in her pocket nabbed her attention. Riri pulled her phone out, and her heart stopped when she saw Hakeem's face lighting up her screen, the familiar nickname BestieWestie hovering above it like a taunt.
The sight knocked the wind out of her.
Guilt swallowed her whole almost immediately, making it hard to breathe. She was gonna be sick. Her thunderous heart echoed in her eardrums, her stomach twisted violently as she stood there motionless, watching the phone ring and ring and ring until she couldn't take it anymore. It was as though she could feel the weight of her betrayal pressing down on her, hear her monster's mocking laughter in her head, and without thinking, her thumb swiped across the screen, declining the call.
She swallowed hard, forcing down the bile that had risen in her throat, but the guilt still lingered.
“Riri?”
Slowly, her eyes rose to find you, trying to compose herself before responding. “Uh, yeah. Yeah that works.”
“Aight. See you then I guess.”
There you went again, strutting out of her life it felt like, abandoning her as she drowned in an ocean of guilt. It was times like these where her mind drifted to a singular person—the only person who could help her escape when her world crumbled.
Riri’s phone buzzed again, but this time only once.
“Fucking oracle.” She muttered, shaking her head at the text message she just received.
Can I come over? Miss you… and those fingers.
•••
“How that dick feel deep in them guts, Z?” It was a rhetorical question—Zariyah couldn’t respond, not with the way Riri had her positioned. Her tattooed arms were pinned behind her back, face embedded in Riri’s pillow, the soft material muffling her pitiful cries.
But Riri enjoyed hearing her girl struggle as her strap tunneled into her soaking cunt from behind, so she questioned her again. “You ain't hear me?”
Zariyah murmured something incoherent, making the shorter girl chuckle. She was so over the guilt she'd been feeling. No longer would outside forces dictate her days, her nights. Control would be hers again, she’d decided, and she aimed to reclaim it through the babbling girl buried in her mattress.
Being with Zariyah was easier. It always was. Fucking her gave Riri what she needed—a distraction, a way to redirect everything she felt for you into something less…complicated. Riri could pretend, just for a little while, that the feelings she couldn’t express to you were meant for someone else.
And right now, that was exactly what she desired—to forget, to not feel so conflicted, and to push everything down just long enough to make Zariyah come.
The tip of her strap teased that special spot Zariyah so impatiently needed her to graze, but Riri was devious, pulling out just before the collision, taunting her. And then, she was thrusting with abandon, fucking into her girl’s dribbling pussy ferociously. The motion sent shock waves through Riy’s skin, and Riri grinned proudly as she marveled at the ripples she created.
“F-fuck…” The only audible word Zariyah had managed to splutter since they’d started.
Her thrusts hadn't slowed amidst Zariyah's desperate little whimpers. She found them to be encouraging, using each whine as motivation to ravage her sopping hole over and over again. “How that shit feel, Z? You still ain't answer me.”
“S’good m-mami… f-fucking me s’good.” The larger girl was a mess, a pathetic one at that—just how Riri liked her.
Her bed creaked intandem with her frantic hips, rocking back and forth slowly beneath the both of them. But there wasn't a sound that reverberated louder than her girl’s wetness. She could hear it, Zariyah's cunt crying for her, leaking more and more the harder she fucked into her.
Riri reached forward with her free hand, the other still pinning Riy’s wrist to her perspiring back, and she grabbed a fist full of Zariyah's flaming curls, yanking her neck backwards. “You hear that shit? You hear how wet that pussy get for me?”
Zariyah didn't answer, far too delirious from the feeling of having her walls stretched. All she could manage was a long drawn out moan, but that wasn't enough for the prowling scientist working over her heated depths. Riri wanted words, no matter how shattered or fragile they might tumble from Riy’s lips, she needed to hear her speak.
She tugged harder on her girl’s hair, tightened her grip on her wrists, using both as leverage to plow into the now weeping girl below her. “Answer me when I fucking speak to you Zariyah.”
Her full name was enough to get Riy’s attention, and she parted her lips, “So wet for you b-baby. A-All f-for you!” She cried, her body shaking, hole clenching.
“Yeah? This for me?” Riri let go of her hair and Zariyah’s head jerked forward.
“Y-Yes mami! All this s-shit for you! God, fuck me!”
Riri could feel her clit jump in her briefs, her own pussy begging for attention as she drilled Zariyah. “Fuck Z, youn know how bad I needed this. After the day I had, shit.”
“Use me mami, take all that shit out on me, ooh fuck!”
“Take that dick baby, just like that. Sooo fucking good.”
As she watched Riy’s greedy hole consume her strap, Riri couldn't help but zone out to the echoing sound of skin slapping against skin. And as she expected, her mind wandered—to you. She imagined it was you underneath her, your hole expanding around the length of her, swallowing her inch by fucking inch, sounding utterly blissed out from the pleasure she orchestrated inside you.
She wanted you to make those unholy sounds for her, scream her name again and again, as she brought you to your edge. You’d weep for her, real, raw tears as she tended to your every need. And she’d dry your eyes, just before dropping to her knees to devour you, filling her system with your lust.
But alas, this had only been a fantasy, an immoral one, and Zariyah’s desperate groans recentered Riri in actuality.
“Fuck me mami, fuck me harder! I'm finna come!”
She hadn't stopped fucking Zariyah all the while, and it seemed her rapid strokes were on the verge of making Zariyah come all over the dildo moving in and out of her center.
“You wanna come, Z?” She let go of Riy’s hands to grip her hips as she thrusted into her.
“Yes m-mami, pleaseeee!” Riy reached up, grabbing hold of the headboard, deepening her arch.
This was the part that excited Riri the most, the moments right before her girl reached her peak; she reveled in the way she pleaded for release. “Show me how bad you want it, baby. Fuck yourself on this dick baby.”
She let Riy go, expecting her to do as instructed, and she smirked a little when her girl obeyed. She took control, rocking herself up and down the span of Riri’s girth, babbling all the while. And Riri was eating it all up, the visual of Zariyah’s ass bouncing with each glide, the loud squishing coming from her soaked center—a fucking symphony—sweet and sultry as Zariyah sang each syllable.
“Ri, I'm coming!”
“All over this dick? You gon make a mess for me, Z?”
“All over that fucking dick mami!” She grunted.
Riri had taken hold of her girl’s flesh again, ramming into her as she wailed out. “Give it to me baby!”
“Right there mami, right fucking there! You finna make me come!”
God, it was fucking glorious, this unrelenting rush of control. It bred regularity back into Riri, it gave her hope again, that things were hers to seize hold of, whether it be Riy, her sleep, or even–
Zariyah’s guttural cry cut her thoughts short, opening the door for a self-satisfied smirk to overtake her face as she watched her girl collapse gracefully, falling deeper into the sheets with an exasperated whine. Riri chuckled as she slowly slipped from inside Zariyah's depths, her eyes entranced by the thick cum oozing out as well. “You did so fucking good, Z baby.”
“I know.” Riy quipped back.
Riri leaned in slowly, her lips brushing soft, lingering kisses along the inked image of Excalibur that adorned her girl’s spine. “You can't just say thank you?”
Zariyah rolled over on her back just as Riri had settled into the covers beside her. “I’m s’posed to thank you for fucking me?”
“And if I said yeah?”
“You the one that need to be saying thank you. Cause after the way you was acting last weekend, you lucky you still have access to this pussy at all.”
Riri chuckled, reaching under her bed for her rolling tray. “Yeah, aight.”
“You think I’m playing with you?” Zariyah’s voice was shrill.
Riri hadn't looked over at her girl as she answered, her thoughts trained on the blunt she was in the process of rolling. “No, I don't.”
“Good. Cause I meant everything I said Riri. I swear to God if you ever embarrass me like that again–”
Riri laughed again, “Yeah okay, do you wanna hit this or not?”
“Don't fucking cut me off,” Zariyah warned. “Like I was saying, before your rude ass interrupted me, if you ever embarrass me like that again, this is done, for good. Cause I don't play that, and I’m dead fucking–”
She paused before gripping Riri’s jaw with an almost bruising force, wrenching her head around until their eyes locked. “I’m dead fucking serious Riri. Act like you got some fucking sense when it comes to me and you.”
The sincerity weighing on Zariyah’s words wasn't up for debate, and Riri didn't see herself capable of fully accepting the warning tossed her way. Because if she did, it would mean opening the door to the possibility of losing Zariyah, and she couldn't stomach that idea. Not now, not when Zariyah remained the only constant amongst her chaos. So she deflected, “You putting your hands on me like you tryna start round four.”
“You so damn irritating.”
“I don't doubt it.” Riri lifted the blunt to her lips, eyes drifting shut as she leaned back, pressing her cloud of curls into the headboard with languid ease. The soft sound of the lighter clicked, and she sensed Zariyah’s steady hands bringing the flame closer, the heat brushing her skin just before the blunt sparked.
As the smoke cleared, Riri laid naked in her bed with a zoned out Zariyah sprawled across her lap. Her fingers traced the outline of the sword etched into her girl's flesh, admiring the precision of the dagger’s design, and the artist’s careful attention to every detail. “This tattoo is my favorite.”
Zariyah giggled, “Yeah?”
“Mhmm. You know why?”
“Why?”
Riri cleared her throat, “Because it kind of embody’s you.” She could tell from the way Riy scrunched her nose at her that she didn't quite understand the point she was attempting to make, so she continued, “To me, you hold the same authority as the blade. You demand respect and you're not to be ignored—Excalibur is like that—like you.”
“You always get to talking all kinds of shit when you're high Ri.” She laughed.
And Riri joined her, “Yeah, but you love it though.”
“I love making you come way more. You gon let me?”
Riri cocked her brow, “Who said I ain’t come?”
“Girl, I know what the fuck you look like when you come, what you sound like, and it didn't happen once tonight.”
The shorter girl grinned. She loved moments like these, when her mind focused solely on her and her fiery-headed lover. “Oh so you be watching me?”
“If I'm making you feel good, best believe I'm getting caught up in every single detail. I love seeing you react to my touch. So let me do that shit Ri!” Zariyah whined.
“Next time.”
Riy groaned, “So what you got going on for the rest of the night then? Since you turning down head from me.”
“Not much. Homework.”
Zariyah poked her stomach, “Want me to stay and help? I know a thing or two about engineering.”
“Nah, it's uh, a project actually. Gonna go work on it with my partner when she gets off work.”
“Can't believe you're ditching me for some nerd from class. Is she cute at least?” Zariyah asked, sitting up to grab her phone off the charger.
Riy was oblivious to the mental minefield she'd just thrusted the smaller girl into; she hadn't even looked up from her phone after asking her, so why was Riri beginning to panic? It was an innocent enough question—just a playful, offhand remark—but there lived no innocence beneath the lie Riri was gearing up to tell.
Riri forced an easy smirk, glancing over at the tattooed girl lying beside her in bed, “Ion be looking at nobody but you, baby.”
“Bullshit!” Zariyah cried, causing them both to erupt in laughter.
“But nah, it's uh, my partner is Keem’s girl. We just got paired up today so Ima go over there in a little bit.” Riri finally admitted, but she still couldn't get the pit out of her stomach, still unsure why it was even there to begin with.
Beside her, Riri could sense Zariyah's energy shift at your mention; she could sense the unspoken question hanging in the air, but Riri wasn't sure she'd have an answer to give, and if she did, it'd be nothing more than another half truth.
Riy turned, eyeing the calculating scientist with weariness in her pupils. “What do you think of her? Hakeem's girlfriend I mean.”
“I don't.” She lied.
“So you don't have any opinion on your best friend’s girl? You, Riri Williams? Nah, I’m calling bullshit again.” Zariyah narrowed her eyes slightly, but Riri knew she could still see right through her.
She straightened her back, and Riy did the same, not letting up. “Why do you care so much?”
“Don't care at all actually, but I spoke to her at the party, and she seemed a little…”
Riri raised her brow curiously, “A little what?”
“I don't know, immature, I guess? She just doesn't seem too sure of herself. Which isn't a bad thing, it's just what I’ve observed.”
This assessment of you felt like a personal offense. Immature? Unsure of yourself? Riri’s eyebrows furrowed as she attempted to keep her expression neutral, but Zariyah's words grated at her. Aside from Riy herself, you were probably the most self-assured person she'd ever met. Sure, you had some trouble seeing yourself that way, but Riri could tell that was because of someone else's doing. Still, there was an unmistakable strength to you, one that came with ease and intelligence, and the idea that anyone would label you as immature, was so misguided.
“Just because she doesn't wear her confidence like a fucking accessory don't mean she's unsure of herself.”
Zariyah huffed a dry laugh beside her, “And here I was believing that you don't think about her.”
“I don't,” Riri sighed, “I just know her well enough to know that you're wrong about her.”
“Hmm. Well alright.” Riy conceded.
Riri was grateful she’d managed to dead the conversation there; she didn’t have the energy to continue if Riy decided to press it further. Yet, there was something in Riy’s tone—an edge, a subtle hesitation—that made it clear she wasn’t entirely done with the topic.
“Where you going?”
Zariyah had risen out of bed while Riri was deep in thought, and she was half dressed now as she scoured the room for her underwear. “I’m not finna be waiting around for you while you off doing science experiments or whatever the fuck. I got people that wanna see me, so that's where I’m going.”
“And who the fuck are these people that wanna see you?”
Zariyah slipped her panties back on, and then her dress before leering over at Riri seductively, “I’m finna make somebody daughter come tonight. If it ain't you then it's on to the next, lil mamas.”
“Damn, it's like that Z?” Riri tutted. “Here I was thinking you was faithful.” She added jokingly.
Riy shook her head, “Faithfulness is for committed folks, and you’ve made it crystal clear that ain't something I’m getting from you.”
She could hear the slight hurt that tinged her girl’s words, and immediately, the guilt she'd been fleeing flooded back. “Z, you know I’m tryna get there.”
“But them demons on your ass right? They fighting back?” She laughed a little, making Riri roll her eyes.
Riri flinched at the comment; it was like salt in an open wound. “You don't gotta do all that bruh.”
“All what? Tell you the truth? Look, it's cool. I knew what I was getting into with you, I ain’t tripping bout it. When you get there, you get there,” She reassured the smaller girl peering over at her with saddened eyes, “But let's hope for your sake, I'm gracious enough to still be here too.”
“I'm not some commitment-phobe you know. I just don't wanna bring all my shit into your life.”
“Ri, it's good. Like I said, fight your demons lil mamas. I like what we have, I wouldn't keep coming back if I didn't.”
“Okay…” Riri forced a smile. “But I am your favorite though right? Outta all them other bitches? They fuck you like me?”
“You are too much.” Riy inched toward the bed, hand outstretching to cup Riri’s chin as she tugged her in for a peck, a gentle one that contrasted the others they’d shared earlier in the night. “But yes you are my most favorite, Ri baby. Done got my feelings involved messing with your lil ass.”
Riri giggled, “All I’m hearing is I'm the favorite.”
Riy rolled her eyes, “Walk me out?”
She nodded, pulling on a hoodie as they both moved towards the door. Riri pulled Zariyah in for one final kiss, allowing the tenderness to stretch out, savoring the closeness for a little while longer. When their lips parted, Riri lingered in the moment, heart racing as she met Zariyah's gaze. She grinned, dazzled by the twinkle existing in her girl's deep eyes. “Don't allow yourself to be wielded by the unworthy, Zariyah. I mean it.”
“Okay, Ri,” Riy smiled shyly, “I’ll see you later.”
Riri stood in the doorway, grinning to herself as she watched Zariyah disappear down the hall, the warmth of their night still ever-present in her chest. But as soon as the door clicked shut, the crushing weight returned.
Gone were her fleeting moments of comfort, and now she was alone again, alone with her thoughts and the guilt that had been creeping at the edges all night. She leaned back against the door, the grin fading as she sighed, already feeling the pull of everything she was trying to avoid.
In less than an hour, she’d be seeing you.
Riri sighed again, this time deeper, more defeated, knowing she couldn’t outrun her demons forever.
•••
Riri sat in the dark parking lot, engine off, but her mind revving uncontrollably. The clock on her dashboard glowed 9:37 PM. You’d be arriving home soon—if her calculations were correct.
She had replayed it in her head a dozen times since you mentioned you’d be off at 8:00. Simple math, really—enough time to wrap up, walk to your bus stop, and make it home by 9:43. Still, she was beginning to doubt her accuracy the longer she was made to sit silently and alone in her car.
Her eyes dropped to her outfit for what felt like the millionth time, fingers nervously tugging at the collar of her black baby tee. She’d worn this shirt countless times before, paired with her favorite gray shorts—normally her go-to for comfort. But tonight, the fabric stuck to her skin in a way that made her feel exposed and uncomfortable. Everything felt too tight, too revealing, and for reasons she couldn’t quite explain, she regretted every choice she’d made in getting dressed.
The stunning moonlight reflected on Riri’s golden “R” pendant as she played with it, catching the last of the fading daylight, but now, even that felt like it had been drawing too much attention. She carried her hands from her neck to her steering wheel, gripping tightly to the vehicle as a means to steady herself, but the act had no use.
Where the hell were you?
Maybe it would have been smart to let Zariyah eat her out when she offered, perhaps a bone rattling orgasm would have prevented her impatience, or at the very least dampen it. Riri’s eyes darted to the rearview mirror, then back to her phone, then to the empty sidewalk outside her car. She could still leave, you could've very well forgotten she was to come over.
You were probably with your boyfriend.
And if she decided to go now, you'd have never known she was here. It would save her the embarrassment she was feeling.
9:44 PM.
The numbers on the dashboard ridiculed her, mocked her akin to how her monster would, if he were present. But just as Riri had geared up to start her car, she heard the city bus screech to a halt behind her, and the deep, guttural exhale of the brakes followed shortly after. She gazed breathlessly at her side mirror, watching as you emerged through the automatic doors.
9:45 PM.
She'd been off by two minutes.
You looked exhausted, the glow of the street lights casting shadows over your worn out features. Yet, there was still something inherently you about your movements—effortless in your fatigue. And Riri found her attraction to you growing, gaining strength as she watched you at your most mundane.
She eyed you as you took your long, signature strides up the sidewalk towards your building, but they were tempered tonight, more deliberate. You disappeared inside soon after, and Riri had to physically restrain her body with her seatbelt to prevent herself from following immediately after you. She knew you needed time to settle in before she bombarded your space, and she wanted you to have that.
After exactly twenty-three minutes of impatiently tapping her feet against the car floor, Riri finally sighed, muttering, a quiet “Fuck it,” as she threw open the door with aggressive gusto.
She found herself rehearsing her opening line on her way up the elevator. Why had it felt like this was your first time meeting? Why was she so nervous?
It could be because she couldn't classify her reasons for coming over as innocent ones. Showing up on a Friday night, to work on a project due in two weeks with not so much as a pen and paper said a lot about her intentions; Riri was just banking on you being too tired to ask any questions.
The elevator dinged, and Riri’s stomach dropped in sync with the slight dip the elevator made before the doors parted, and she stepped out, on the hunt for your door. She could feel the weight of her hesitation in every step, the cool hallway air doing nothing to soothe the nervous energy buzzing beneath her skin. Once in front of your door, Riri’s hand hovered just inches from knocking, frozen in indecision.
She knew the guise for being here was thin—a project, she told herself, but the empty space at her side where her backpack should’ve been conveyed a different story. She hadn’t come to work. Not really.
The thick door loomed over her short build, daring her to knock. She wondered if you'd fallen asleep, and maybe if she turned around, it'd be something you both could forget. But she called bullshit on herself, because Riri knew the basis of her hesitancy. The second she touched the door, a current of guilt would pull her under, and she’d struggle to stay afloat.
Still, something stronger—something living deeper in her gut—urged her forward. And before she could stop herself, her knuckles rapped softly against the door. Too soft, she thought. For a second, she almost hoped you wouldn’t hear it.
But, a few beats later, the door swung open… and there you stood. You were dressed in a delicate loungewear set—white with lace trim—and your hair was pulled into a loose bun that left a few tendrils framing your face. She’d never expected to see you dressed in something so… intimate, with so much exposed skin.
Thighs, and hips, and ass; this was too much; Riri was too gay for this. God, she knew you were gorgeous, but seeing you like this, at home and dressed down, made it a lot more impossible to ignore.
You blinked at her, surprised, and Riri realized she might have caught you off guard.
“Riri?” Your voice was low, the greeting more of a question than a statement.
Riri was regretting this already. Was this how you felt whenever she scolded you for showing up at her door unannounced?
She forced a smile before clearing her throat, trying to do away with that everlasting tension, “Hey… uh, the project, remember?”
You blinked the confusion away, “Yeah, um, yeah come in.”
Riri followed behind you when you turned, compelling her eyes not to venture lower, and she stepped inside.
When the door clicked shut behind her, the reality of where she was settled in at once. Your apartment was different from how she remembered it. She'd been inside maybe twice before, briefly, when she was with Hakeem, but this time was different.
She was in your space, experiencing it through different lenses.
The place felt like you. Soft floral patterns scattered across the pillows and curtains, the warm amber hues of autumn blending into every corner. Riri’s eyes flickered over the small details, the way the light from the lamps bathed the room in a soft glow, the rich rust-colored throw draped over the back of the couch. The air smelled faintly of jasmine, and everything was extremely clean, almost compulsively.
She knew you had a roommate, but it was clear that this apartment—at least from the way it looked—belonged to you alone.
“I like your place.” Riri murmured, feeling the words slip out before she could bite them back. She hadn't even been looking at you when she admitted it, too busy absorbing everything.
“Thanks,” You nodded, moving towards the kitchen table, where Riri noted your backpack. “So, I had a chance to look over the list of topics from class,”
You were walking back over to the shorter girl now, laptop in hand, “I think these two could be interesting. They're just the ones that stuck out to me, but if you're thinking something different…”
Why were you being so formal with her?
Riri glanced at the screen she was presented with, reading the highlighted topics aloud, “Environmental Modeling and Mechanical Vibrations…”
“What do you think?”
She gave the screen another once over before sighing, “I mean, I guess?”
“You have something else in mind?”
Riri chuckled softly, her eyes sweeping over you with a teasing smirk. “Isn't the whole point of us being partners to, you know, make decisions about the project together?”
“Do you have something else in mind, Riri?” The words were clipped, your tone laced with irritation, as though you’d been dealing with this back-and-forth for too long.
She chuckled awkwardly, “To be honest, I ain't really look at them for real, I was–”
Your jaw tightened, the frustration in your eyes cutting her off mid-sentence,“Then why the hell are you here?”
Riri blinked; she hadn't expected you to snap at her like that. “I was just thinking we could look at them together and choose one… damn.” Her voice trailed off, a twinge of defensiveness creeping in, “Like the fuck you getting all snappy for?”
“I don't know Riri, maybe because I just got off work and I'm fucking tired,” You argued back. She could hear the exhaustion in your voice, “And I’m really not in the mood to deal with your shit right now.”
Riri flinched at the sharpness of your tone, the sting of it seeping in deeper than she wanted to admit.
After she apologized, after she confessed to wanting to earn your forgiveness, she thought maybe things would get easier. But it felt like the wall between you two was still there, and what hurt Riri most was knowing she was the one who had built it in the first place. She didn't know how to tear it down, and now, it seemed like you hadn't wanted it to crumble at all.
Couldn’t you at least put it aside for the sake of the project? For the grade?
“You acting like you ain't told me to come over…”
“Yeah, after you basically hounded me about starting the project today.” Your arms were crossed, shoulders tensed as you glared back at Riri.
Riri could feel her own irritation brewing in her bosom, as she stood before you, skin hot and prickly. Her heart hammered away at her chest, and she wasn’t sure if it was from the argument or from the look in your eyes—a look that seemed to hold more than just anger.
There was restraint in the way you looked at her, like you were forcing yourself to stay guarded even if the intensity in your pupils betrayed you.
The silence grew heavier, both of you standing there, unrelenting. Riri’s breathing grew shallow, her frustration mingling with something else—a thrill she wasn't sure she should acknowledge.
“If you want me to leave, Ima need you to say it.” She whispered, noting the way your eyes melted almost instantly, and she grinned to herself.
You shook your head, grabbing your laptop from her, and moving to the couch. “You're already here, might as well agree on a topic.”
Riri sank down next to you, scooting closer than necessary so she could see the screen, but the moment your arms brushed, any hope of focus vanished. The faint warmth of your skin on hers made her body buzz, her senses completely tuned to the soft point of contact.
You were talking, your voice drifting over her like a heatwave, but she couldn't focus on a single thing besides the dizzying sensation settling in her bones.
“...Epidemiology modeling…” You trailed off, explaining something, but it went over her head. “Similar to… model… class.”
“Riri?” Your voice startled her out of her daze.
Riri shook her head, her eyes discovering your parted lips, “Huh?”
You rolled your eyes, “Did you bring your notes?”
She forced a casual shrug, scrambling for an excuse, “Oh. Uh, no.”
“Did you bring anything?” You pressed, your tone cutting through the fog in her head.
“Yeah... no sorry... I was already here when I realized I forgot my backpack.” She lied. Truth was, she hadn’t thought about her notes, or the project, or anything besides the fact that she’d be here, with you, alone.
You sighed, indicating your frustration hadn't gone away. “It's fine, I guess I can just email you.”
“Okay.” She mumbled softer than intended, guiding her eyes back to the screen, though she still wasn't paying attention; Riri’s mind was muddled by her desperate desire for your arms to brush again.
“So, did any of the other topics sound interesting to you? I still think environmental modeling is the best choice. We could like, model the population growth of an endangered species or something.”
Riri wasn't equipped with an answer, but she knew you were expecting one, so she decided the safest choice was to just agree with you. “I uh, actually think I agree with you, it made more sense after you explained it.”
“M’kay. Well, we don't have to do the research right away. I’ll send you my notes, and maybe we could uh, get together on Sunday to–”
In front of you, your phone started ringing on the coffee table, the vibrating sound cutting your sentence short.
Slowly, your eyes panned to the screen, and Riri allowed hers to follow.
Mom.
The phone kept buzzing, but you hadn't moved to answer it, which piqued Riri’s curiosity. You were frozen, lost in a haze as you watched the device ring, and ring, and ring, until it finally stopped.
Riri watched the subtle shift in your expression as you snapped back into conversation, brushing off the strange silence like it hadn’t happened at all. “We could meet up on Sunday. I know this coffee shop that's really qu–”
Your phone was ringing again, same caller—your mother. You went silent for the second time, your expression draining of anything recognizable as you focused on the lit up screen.
“You gonna get that?”
Then it rang a third time, and you reached forward, completely powering the device off before responding. “Uh, no.”
You stood abruptly, gunning for the kitchen with sudden determination. “You want some fries? Got em from work.”
Riri couldn't help herself, her eyes immediately found your ass. She shook her head, overwhelmed by the way your cheeks spilled out the bottom of your shorts, just enough for her to witness.
“Goddamn…”
You whipped around, “What was that?”
“I said yeah, I’ll take some fries.” She chirped.
The universe was testing her, and Jesus fuck, she was failing so miserably. But, at least she would get to enjoy her favorite food ahead of her demise.
She watched as you sauntered back over to the couch holding a Freeda’s take away container. “They're still kinda warm. I made them fresh before I left work.”
Riri hadn't wanted to look greedy when she reached for the fries, but it was kind of hard not to. She hadn't eaten since earlier with Zariyah, so when that familiar aroma of potatoes and grease hit her nose, she was practically salivating.
“Thank you,” She muttered with a stuffed mouth, letting out a satisfied moan as the flavor of seasoned salt coated her taste buds. “These fries be too fucking good.”
You laughed beside her, a real, genuine giggle as you undoubtedly watched her in amusement, “I’m glad you like them, but please slow down before you choke.”
Riri popped another fry in her mouth, savoring the taste as she lifted her face out of the plate to meet your eyeline. You weren't eating, just watching, a smile playing on your lips. She paused, heart fluttering unexpectedly.
Had you brought these just for her? This would challenge her previous conclusion, that you had forgotten she was coming. The thought warmed Riri, and she decided not to question it; she liked the idea that you were thinking of her, just as she thought of you.
“Can I ask you a question?” Riri began.
“You mean a follow up question to the one you just asked me? Because can I ask you a question, is a question.”
Riri rolled her eyes, “You know what I mean.”
“Do I, though? Because if I’m being honest Riri, I literally never know what you mean.”
Riri deadpanned, “Why didn't you answer the phone when your mom called?”
She wanted to tread lightly, because it seemed these were murky waters between you and your mother, but she was still curious as to why the calls upset you.
You swallowed hard, clearing your throat as you smoothed your hands down your bare thighs. “Don't think you're equipped to handle my mommy issues. How bout you just eat your fries.”
Riri could detect deflection like a bloodhound. She knew why she was so keen on it, and she assumed your reasoning would mirror hers, but she couldn't do away with the feeling of wanting to know; to help; to soothe.
“I might be more equipped than you think. I’ll have you know, I have my very own therapist.” Riri joked, wanting to lighten your mood.
“You're in therapy?” You questioned, sounding genuinely astonished.
Riri scoffed playfully, “Fuck you sound so surprised for? A nigga can't wanna better their mental health?”
You laughed again, the sound intoxicating as it escaped you. “No offense, but have you met yourself? You and the premise of bettering your mental health do not go…”
“You know what, I won’t take offense to that,” Riri said, crossing her arms with a smirk. “Because I know all this”—she waved a hand up and down in your direction—“is just you trying to avoid the question.”
The room had gone quiet, lit only by the dim, warm glow of a single lamp. “Why do you wanna know anyway, not like you actually care.” Your words punctured the silence, sharp, yet subdued, as though you’d resigned yourself to the idea that you didn't matter to her.
And she hated herself more than ever now, hated that she had made you feel this way, made you doubt your worth to her, made you think your feelings were unimportant. Nothing could mend that hurt; it was too late. But in the gentle quiet of this moment, she could try to show you something real, something she hadn’t known how to say before.
“Maybe I do care,” She huffed, her somber stare boring into your abyssal eyes. “Maybe I can relate.”
A question flickered in your eyes, swirling through the depths of your deep browns, softening them with curiosity. “And what is it that you think you can relate to?”
“My relationship with my mom isn't the best right now. I’ve done my fair share of dodging calls and ignoring texts.” Riri admitted.
“What's your mother like?” You questioned.
Riri felt her emotions tangle in her throat, choking her as she attempted to answer. “If I’m being honest, she was kind of the best, still is in some ways. Growing up, her and my dad were overly involved in my academics, but not in a way that made me feel pressured. It wasn't easy being labeled a super-genius at the age of five,” She laughed. “I think they thought I’d turn into a dangerous, detached child if they didn't pay enough attention to me, and make me feel normal or something.”
You watched her attentively, without interruption.
“I’m grateful for that, grateful for them as a team… But after my dad died, things sort of changed. Mom changed.”
“How?”
Riri exhaled, swallowing the lump in her throat, “She became extremely overprotective, worried way more. And I understood why, more so now that I'm older, but I think she got so caught up in trying to navigate life without dad, that she didn't see that I was changing too. I blamed myself for his death. I knew my mom didn't, but she wasn't as attentive as she used to be, she couldn't… see me, anymore.”
She had to stop talking before the tears came.
She glanced over at you, eyes glassy with barely contained emotion, searching your features for a glimmer of understanding, anything bereft of judgment.
She hoped you'd relate, not because she wanted you to know her pain, but because she needed to believe that exposing the cracks she worked so hard to hide, hadn’t been done in vain.
You offered her an empathetic smile, your eyes filled to the brim with an emotion Riri knew better than most. You too had been kissed by death's lips—you knew loss as deeply as she did.
“My dad died when I was twelve,” You began, voice a bit unsteady, “He was my best friend. He'd always pick me and my sister up early from school on Fridays, take us to get burgers and milkshakes. His time with his girls—that's what he called it.” You smiled briefly, like the memory itself was nostalgic. “And to this day, I don’t think my mom even knows."
Riri watched relief prance across your face, a lightness that told her you hadn’t let yourself talk about this in a long time, and she couldn't help but smile.
But your expression dimmed as fast as it brightened, your voice dropping in octaves. “I don’t have any memories of my parents as a team like you do,” You continued, glancing down. “ But I know I felt my mom’s love most when my dad was still around. She'd say it—I love you—but only when she thought we were worthy of hearing it. Sometimes I wonder if she ever really loved any of us… But I don’t think I actually wanna know the answer to that.”
“I’m sorry.” Riri whispered, voice jagged, her heart breaking for you.
You didn’t look at her, your eyes fixed somewhere beyond the room, palms pressed firmly to your knees like you were grounding yourself in place. “Not your fault. I don’t even know why I just told you all that.”
But Riri knew. She knew what it felt like to carry heavy feelings, what it felt like to be crushed by the weight of them. Eventually you lose control; you break.
“I know why I did.” Riri sliced through the thick silence with her confession, exhaling languidly as your eyes moved to find hers. “Because… it needed to be said, I needed to say it out loud to someone.”
You blinked at her, pupils blown wide, “Okay. But why me?”
There it was—that rush of doubt, the uncertainty Zariyah mentioned earlier. You questioned yourself because your mother planted those seeds of insecurity, and there was no doubt her own behavior added to it as well. But she could rectify all that… if you let her.
“You make me do things I don't normally do,” She said, voice rough with frustration. “Feel things I shouldn't. And when you look at me like that…”
You gasped, your breath stuck in your throat. “Like what?”
“Like that… With those fucking eyes…” Riri swallowed hard, her irises darkening with lust and intensity.
“These are just… my eyes.” You whispered, barely able to speak.
But Riri wasn’t listening anymore; her brown globes were tracing the expanse of your exposed skin, every inch of you on display, and she didn’t bother to hide it.
She drank you in, taking in every curve, every line, every stretch mark like a map she wanted to follow. Your nipples were erect beneath your top, and she studied those too.
Her lip was caught between her teeth, her restraint slipping with each passing second as the tension between you both thickened.
“I know…” She pressed her forehead to yours, and you didn’t pull away. Her eyes fluttered shut as she breathed you in, savoring the closeness, each shared breath laced with a tension neither of you dared to break.
Your perfume was faint, almost washed away by the day, but Riri could still smell it. That soft aroma of vanilla and saffron she'd become addicted to, and now she was finally getting her fix. “But the more you look at me, the harder it is for me to look away.”
“Oh–”
“And I don’t wanna look away.”
The room was cloaked in a stillness that swaddled the both of you. She committed the outline of your visage to memory, every subtle movement, every shift of breath. Your heartbeat created a haunting rhythm in her ears, urging her to pull away, to step back. But with you this close, eyes this dark and needy, she couldn’t bring herself to listen. Not now. Not when she could feel the warmth radiating off you, filling the narrow space between you with a terrifying tension.
You exhaled shakily, your charged utterance fanning the flames between you, “I don't like it when you look away…”
You and your delicate, daunting eyes—you’d be her undoing. But it would all be worth it if she got just one taste of all that you were.
“I-I’m struggling,” She cooed, fingers trembling as she cupped your face, trying and failing to fight off her hunger for you. “Tell me to stop, please... before I do something I can't take back.”
She was so fucking desperate—her entire being thrummed with it, that raw ache she knew only you could soothe. Desperate for you, your lips, for any sense of release from the emotions tearing her apart.
And as she stared at your perfect, pouty lips, she was beginning to accept that this might be it—the moment she finally risked it all.
“Riri… I–” You sounded wounded, and it shattered her heart all over again. Because she could see it in your eyes, hear it in your rapid breaths—that same intense longing—that hurt. And all she wanted was to ease it, to answer your silent cries.
Riri leaned in, closing the remaining distance between you, her ravenous mouth hovering inches away from yours, the heat of your breath entangling with hers as everything faded away.
But just as your lips were about to meet, a knock at the door shattered the silence, yanking her back to reality.
“That's Keem...” You mumbled, but you didn’t pull away, your sight still locked on hers, lingering, like maybe you didn’t want this to end any more than she did.
Riri’s world began to topple in on her as the reality of what she was doing started settling in. She pulled back, her hands slipping away from your cheeks, and her heart seemed to stop beating when she noticed the look on your face—unmistakable rejection etched into your features.
She wanted to reach out, to somehow make it right, to tell you that none of this was your fault and that everything would be okay. But the words wouldn’t come. She was already wrapped up in a web of lies—lies to herself, to everyone around her, and she couldn’t bear adding you to that list.
“I should go. Yeah, I should go. I'm gonna go.”
She stood up, and you didn't stop her, as she made her way over to the door. The knocking came again, echoing in her blazing sternum, and she froze, not sure what to do.
“I uh–”
You crept up behind her awkwardly, just as frazzled as she was. “I’ll uh, I’ll get it.”
When you opened the door, there stood her best friend, dressed in the floral fleece sweater she’d given him for Christmas, his favorite jacket—the one he practically lived in. Her stomach churned violently; she wouldn't be able to hold her vomit any longer, and when their eyes locked, Riri gagged.
“Hey baby.” You chirped, your voice flustered and nervous. She could see you were trying to smooth over the awkwardness, but the look on Hakeem’s face made it clear you were only making things worse.
Hakeem's eyes darted from you to Riri, then back to Riri, his face unreadable. “Ri, what are you doing here?”
“Project,” Was all she could manage, anymore words and she’d puke all over his Air Forces.
“Your phone don't work?” He turned back to you, eyes sharp with accusation.
“Sorry baby, I had my phone turned off. We were working on the project and just lost track of time. I forgot you said you were coming over.”
God, you fucking sucked at lying.
Hakeem's broad shoulders filled the door, blocking Riri’s only escape route. She knew that look in his eyes too—suspicion. She needed to get out, fast, before she passed out from the guilt storming her little body.
“Yo shit was off too?” He shot Riri a look, his eyes erratic and filled with something she didn’t dare try to decipher. She couldn’t bring herself to meet his gaze, and she was certain he noticed that too.
Riri shook her head, looking everywhere but at his gorgeous face; she wouldn't be able to lie to him if she did—Hakeem was the only person that could make her unravel with a single glance. “I was with Z when you called. My bad, man.”
She shielded herself from his threatening glare as she finally slipped past him and into the hallway. “I gotta go though, I’m seeing her later.”
“Oh, aight.” Keem’s tone was flat—unconvinced.
Riri glanced at the two of you one last time, her eyes narrowing as she noticed the way Keem’s arm wrapped around your waist, pulling you close almost protectively—possessively. A pang of confusion hit her as she caught a flicker of jealousy in his gaze, as if he suddenly saw her as a threat.
Your eyes were glued to the floor in shame, averting hers as she backed away.
“Ima see you…”
Speculation thickened the air as Riri made her way down the never-ending hallway, battling her rising nausea with each step.
Just before she reached the elevator, Hakeem called after her, his voice steady, and a little too deliberate, “Drive safe, Ri, say hey to Riy for me.”
Her steps faltered, and she turned, locking eyes with him. His stare was sharp, assessing, almost daring her to slip up.
“Yeah.” She called out, wanting to appear untested.
But the second the elevator closed, Riri was doubled over, emptying the contents of her stomach all over the floor. She’d never had a fear of confined spaces before, but now, it felt like the walls were closing in on her, restricting her airflow as she descended down to the depths of Hell—where she knew her monster had been lying in wait.
Yet, as she plummeted to her doom, a stubborn truth came alive in Riri's mind: She hadn't regretted her egregious behavior—she hadn't regretted you.
summary: consistency is the cornerstone of your relationships: hakeem consistently cares for you, while riri consistently... scorns you. you had grown accustomed to her disdain, even made peace your with it. but when her behavior suddenly softens, confusion takes root, unearthing feelings you thought yourself incapable of.
word count: 12.4k
chapter contents: mild sexual/suggestive content (hakeem x reader), reader is EXTREMELY repressed, flirting, riri and her unyielding staring problem, hakeem being clueless and sweet (his downfall), zariyah is messy!, reader is over riri's shit, riri is starting to lose restraint, hostile altercation with a man, riri defends reader (her girl, her girl, her girl), reader has mommy issues, riri being desperate
note: omg we are so back! hello my lovelies, i've missed you so very much. and i am truly sorry it's taken me over a year to update this fic. i took a break because i kinda lost my interest in writing for the fandom for a little while. but it's slowly coming back! i basically forced myself to pick the pen back up, and it worked because i love this chapter a lot. and now y'all can stop yelling at me like omg i'm just a girl! remember this is a SLOW BURN, emphasis on SLOW, but things are definitely picking up lol. reader is realizing some things and she is struggling, i love putting my characters through it hehe. shouts out to my baby @kisskourt for letting me yap to them about all my thoughts and tings, i love youss! but anyway! i hope y'all enjoy and stick around for the next part! mwah mwah!
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There were fingers scaling your exposed spine, supple lips hugging your throat tenderly, leaving warm kisses in their wake as you responded with the single sound your body allowed: a meek whimper.
Hakeem's fingers; his lips.
The two of you were in his bed, your legs knotted around his waist with his back flush against the headboard. Your boyfriend was the proud proprietor of wandering hands, and you permitted their roaming about your body, allowing the pads of his digits to spike the temperature on your already searing skin.
“You don't know how much I missed this, baby girl.” He spoke into your flesh, painting your neck with his decree. It was all so intense—the pressure of his mouth on you. The licking, the sucking, the biting. Significantly more impassioned than anything you were accustomed to, the sensations arising in you as unfamiliar as they were unsettling.
Being perched in his lap made you privy to his swelling bulge underneath you, and you could clearly tell the rehearsed rut of your hips served only as an amplifier for his existing arousal.
Arousal. You pondered the word and its meaning, how you weren't sure if it was this you experienced now, or if you'd ever experienced it in the way you should have for that matter. Hakeem was panting into your mouth as he kissed you, moaning each time you brushed up against him just right. He was enjoying himself.
Were you?
You should be. You should be moaning and panting, just as he was. Feeling his breath hit your skin should be dizzying, the sounds of his grunts all consuming.
But when his hand climbed up, eager to undo the clasps of your bra, you could not combat the overwhelming need for it all to–
“Stop!” The command flew from your lungs faster than anticipated—more defensive than intended. Hakeem did not hesitate to heed though, his hands and lips levitated from your body, leaving you in a state of undress despite your clothes remaining.
His stormy eyes scanned your face, inquiring an answer you could not provide.
“I’m sor–” You began, unmounting him to sit at the edge of the bed as you chose to recoil from his concerned touch.
But Hakeem shook his head at you, he wouldn't allow that. He forced you to face him, tilting your chin ever so gently with his pointer finger. And it astonished you, when your remorseful eyes rose to catch his. There lived no hurt in his own eyes, not even the smallest drop of disappointment hidden behind his earthy brown irises.
Yet you studied his face still, searching, wanting, hoping to discover the slightest bit of resentment sculpted into his perfect features, because that would make the most sense to you. Hadn't you slighted him? Hadn't you deserved his anger? You led him on, for the umpteenth time, he would be justified in his upset.
But you found nothing of the sort amidst your scouring. Instead you happened upon reassurance in his stoic eyes; reassurance that only heightened your guilt the longer you stared at him.
“Don't apologize.” He sighed, large hands moving swiftly to cup your cheeks. “It's okay if you're not ready.”
“It's not that I’m not– I-I know that I told you I was, but I–”
Hakeem’s mouth twitched into a small smile, and that hurt too, more so than his concern. “You're not and that's okay.”
How fortunate were you, you thought. You had a boyfriend who was considerate about your apprehension, even though he so obviously did not understand it. Not even you understood your hesitancy. Hakeem was safe, and Hakeem was gentle. This should be an easy decision made.
God how you wished it was easy. You wanted to have sex, you were ready, you told him you were, so why couldn't you just do your part?
Why couldn't you just be ready?
“It's not fair…to you.” You confessed, frowning.
“I don't know how many times I gotta tell you it's okay before you believe me. I ain't trippin.” You watched him, suspicious as he sported an easy grin that hurried your heart, waiting for the impending snark that surely crept close behind. “I mean, I do got a right hand for a reason.”
Hakeem wiggled his fingers mischievously in your face, his action a clear attempt at lifting your spirits, and of course it worked, because why would it not?
You feigned a scoff, struggling to conceal your laughter at his predictably lewd jester, “You're lame, and you're disgusting.”
“I promise I can show you disgusting whenever you decide to let me.” His chuckle escaped him, deep and dark when it engulfed you, purposeful in its entrapping, and you felt your throat dry at his words.
His willful gaze was on you, awaiting your reaction, no doubt with a smirk tugging on his dimples. You knew his game all too well, knew his goal. Hakeem was nothing if not a tease, and he was certainly banking on his unforeseen comment flustering you. Which it did indeed, you were as stiff as the hard on in his pants right now, embarrassed and unwilling to move, but he needed not know that part.
“Oh my god, Hakeem!” You used his boisterous laughter as a means to release some of the tension in your bones, though your cheeks remained on fire, the heat lingering behind with your everlasting mortification. Who else besides yourself would react in such a way when it came to sex? Sex with a person you trusted no less.
He would never admit it, but you knew Hakeem saw you as a prude. You thought like a prude, behaved like one too, so what other conclusion was there to be drawn?
“I’m just saying.” He laughed again. You tried matching his lighthearted spirit, pressing your lips into an artificial smile, but the action proved difficult seeing as your inexperience happened to be the butt of the joke. Well, at least it seemed that way to you. But you knew Hakeem, and his intentions could never—would never align with that sentiment.
Amidst your overthinking, you felt the dip in the twin mattress deepen, heard it creek as Hakeem scooted his body fully onto the bed again, taking with him his warmth and the comfort it provided.
“You so damn–” You playfully shifted to face him, assuming you’d find your boyfriend still grinning back at you. But, the sight you happened upon was not one anticipated. “Hakeem what are you doing?”
Your widening eyes drifted reluctantly from his face, traveling down, down, down his perspiring chest, to his sculpted abs, his happy trail. Truthfully, you were attempting every tactic in the book, all in the name of avoidance. You wanted desperately to avert your eyes from their inevitable destination, where Hakeem fiddled with the strings of his sweats, for as long as time would allow.
“Bout to use that right hand I just told you about.”
“Uh, okay, but why are you doing that now, while I'm still here?” Gone was any semblance of a smile you managed to plaster on. Your body temperature spiked in tandem with your pulsating heart, and you sensed a slow panic inching up the back of your neck.
“What? You seen it before.” Hakeem deadpanned.
He was unbelievable, absolutely unbelievable. “Yeah by accident, are you kidding me?!”
“You got me all hot and bothered, I gotta do something to get rid of this.” Hakeem gestured to his still concealed erection.
“You're serious?” It took a second to overcome your state of shock, but the very instant you returned to reality, registering that your boyfriend had indeed possessed plans to pleasure himself with you still in the room, you were on your feet. You retrieved your top, preparing to book it straight out the door, your obvious discomfort a mere mystery to the clueless boy in front of you. “I-I’m leaving.”
Hakeem awarded you an unbothered shrug, almost moaning to himself as you watched his digits disappear beneath the band of his underwear. “That's fine, but can you sway your hips a lil bit on your way out? I need something to work with.”
You scoffed in utter disbelief, tossing a pair of socks at him before opening and slamming the bedroom door shut. Once on the other side, you planted your back up against the cool wood and exhaled, long and deep. You were calmer now, felt safer, with the newly established distance between yourself and your boyfriend’s manhood.
•••
Cleaning always eased your mind, existing as a necessary escape with the passing of time. This was particularly true during your upbringing. Whenever you found yourself at odds with your sister, or tormented by your mother, you’d look to elicit comfort from your chores. A manufactured method of coping, that, when compared to your many others, seemed healthy enough.
And it informed the state you stood in now: annoyed, and wrist deep in a sink of dirty dishes.
Busying yourself with your boyfriend's uncompleted housework was never a responsibility you readily took on, but it supplied a distraction from the disturbing alternative: eavesdropping on Hakeem's alone time.
Hakeem wasn't a slob, but he was still a boy, one gifted with entirely too much independence, so the condition of his apartment was not at all startling. You just wished the mess before you had been a little less obnoxious.
Accompanying the plates and cereal bowls in the sink were empty pizza boxes stacked near the trash can, crumbs occupying the stove, countertops, and kitchen floor. If questioned, he'd undoubtedly place blame on his roommate, which wasn't unrealistic, just more so unbelievable.
You held a sponge in one hand, strangled a fork in the other, and your music blasted on the tv. A desperate attempt to stifle the low grunts escaping the bedroom beside you, but alas, there was only so much drowning out Kehlani could do on their own. Her voice carried, sure, however the apartment was way too small, and the walls way too thin, so the assistance seemed to be in vain.
Maybe if you turned on the vacuum…
It wasn't as though Hakeem was loud, but his sounds were prominent enough, echoing in your ears. The simple fact that you could hear him brought you only discomfort. You were keenly aware of your habit to fixate on the little things, blow them out of proportion, and that was probably the case now. You knew you didn't need to justify not wanting to be present while your boyfriend masturbated in the next room, and yet, you found yourself attempting to do just that.
Perhaps he was right; you were not as ready for sex as you previously thought yourself to be. You just wished that you could handle the situation with some sort of normalcy, instead of drowning in the currents curating your thoughts, and viciously attacking the paint on the walls.
You huffed dryly to yourself, realizing that your chosen method of decompression and distraction was doing everything but.
“You didn't have to help me clean up baby, I was gon get it done before everybody got here.”
Your back was to the bedroom now, so the unexpected sound of Hakeem’s baritone forwarded you into a mild panic. You dropped the spray bottle you previously held and turned abruptly, becoming acquainted with his signature inviting grin.
“W-What?”
He chuckled a bit before responding, amused by your startled demeanor, “I said, you didn't have to clean up. I was planning to do it before everybody got here anyway.”
“Oh, uh, I didn't mind. I wanted to, the dishes were–” You narrowed your eyes curiously, “Wait, what you mean before everybody got here?”
Hakeem trekked over to the refrigerator that you'd just wiped down, and you watched, in utter disgust as his right hand extended for the handle. He opened the door to grab some grapes, and then he was facing you again. “I ain't tell you? I’m having some people over just to chill and stuff.”
God, did he even wash his– You decided you would sleep better at night if the answer remained a mystery, and you instead, chose to finally tune in to his words, “You're having a party.” You stated matter of factly, trying to conceal your soured expression. But if Hakeem’s reaction were to serve as any indication, it was a feat unsuccessful.
“No no no, not a party! It's like a…social gathering, yeah!” He snapped proudly, “It's not gon be like last time, I promise baby girl. And youn have to stay, if you not comfortable I mean. I know I’m still working to regain your trust, so I-I just wanted you to know that.”
Sincerity laced his words, and his smile.
All you could do was roll your eyes; you were annoyed, but your irritation could not trump your curiosity about the guest list. “And who all finna be at this social gathering?”
Hakeem began listing a slew of vaguely familiar names, but you; you were only concerned about one name in particular.
“My roommate Callum, one of his friends, can't remember his name, Riri, obviously, and…”
And at the ring of it, your ears perked, your cheeks flamed, and every other sound faded into the background.
Once again, that internal battle arose inside you, that incessant need to rationalize your reaction. You were still mad at Riri, you didn't wish to speak to her, and surely she possessed no desire to speak to you, especially considering that her last attempt to do so failed oh so miserably.
You were probably the furthest thing from her deeply complicated and tortured mind, so why had she been at the forefront of your own?
You sighed, not only were you meant to sort out your conflicting feelings about the intimacy issues you faced with your boyfriend, but now, your brain was also making it difficult to ignore the confusing ones pertaining to his best friend.
•••
You don't have to stay. Technically, you weren't even invited, so why would you want to stay? You do not have to stay. The mantra you repeated in your head, a mantra that would perhaps become your reality the longer Riri took to walk through that front door.
People began arriving about two hours ago, and from the looks of things, each foretold guest had already been in attendance. All except the one you anticipated the most. Riri's tardiness was not unlike her, in fact, it was rather predictable, and at this point you weren't even sure she would still be coming. She despised parties, from what you gathered. And besides, why should her absence be a concern of yours anyway? She still hadn't awarded you with a proper apology.
Did you even still want one? What good would it do? It wasn't like an apology would erase all the terrible things she's said and done—it wouldn't make you friends. Riri didn't like you, that was still a known fact, was it not?
You wished desperately for your brain to shut up. All these thoughts, each and every one about a girl not worth your time. Why? Why must she remain a plague—contagious and inescapable—infecting each corner of your mind?
You stood in the kitchen, expecting eyes trained on the door, widening each time it would open. Only to be showered in shame and disappointment each time a new arrival proved not to be Riri.
She wasn't coming, and that was to be a good thing. If she were, she’d be–
“Shit Ri, I thought you wasn't coming no more.” They were Hakeem’s words, his voice, yet you couldn't seem to place him in the apartment, though, you weren't trying to.
Your focus had been entirely captured by the massive head of curls strutting through the front door. You blinked, certain your eyes were deceiving you, only to find out that the image before you was in fact not one conjured by your imagination.
Riri had taken her braids down, making her fro impossible to miss.
Her curls were untamed; ferocious; practically swallowing her whole. So big, so bold, so…beautiful. They demanded attention—your attention—and you agreed to their command, bereft of demur. Your eyes stalked her as she maneuvered deeper into the apartment, committing every aspect of this new look to memory. Red looked good on her, you thought. The color of her Bulls jersey, combined with the cascading rays of the setting Sun, enhanced the deepness of her complexion.
You couldn't take your eyes off her, not for a lack of trying. But Riri, she had not noticed you, or perhaps, it was her plan not to acknowledge you even if she had been aware of your presence. Typical. Yet still, you found yourself holding your breath hostage as her head began a slow turn, and her curls bounced, seemingly in your direction, hypnotizing you.
You ignored your chest's tightening, bracing yourself for the impact that was Riri’s hot gaze, anticipating its linger as it often did.
But it never came.
Riri’s eyes flew past you, almost intentionally, and over her shoulder to the long legs making their way past the threshold.
“My bad Keem, it's my fault she's late.” And before your brain had time to place the voice, your eyes landed on a crown of flames resting atop a dazzling face.
Zariyah.
“Cause yo ass can't never just be ready on time.” Riri deadpanned with an annoyed eye roll.
Zariyah was quick to retort, “Riri, ima need you to shut the fuck up before you make me embarrass you in front of your friends.” She concluded with a tight lipped smile, adjusting her top in the process.
The base in her voice echoed in your chest, overpowering the music playing in the background. Truthfully, you were shocked. You’d never heard anyone speak to Riri that way, even more baffling, you’d never imagine her innate reaction to be compliance. It was kind of unsettling, seeing her so unperturbed by Zariyah's belittlement.
This version of Riri was unrecognizable, and frankly, you were offended for her. But, as you panned the room, it seemed as though you remained alone in those feelings, to your dismay. Not a single face contorted in shock or surprise.
You were still scanning the room when you sensed it, a stare easily identified. Gradually your eyes began to wander, in search of the pair currently fixated on you. Riri seemed taken aback when your eyes locked, as though she had not expected you to notice her staring. To be fair, you did not want to notice, but she wasn't exactly being discreet about it, and once you felt her stare on your person, ignoring it was akin to setting yourself ablaze.
So you gave in, and you stared back at her from your planted post in the kitchen. Riri had her arm snaked around Zariyah's waist, utterly uninterested in the conversation happening around her. At the moment, you seemed to be her only focus, and mutually, she was yours.
You could never get a read on her. Each of her actions contradicted the ones preceding it. Like now, she tugged Zariyah in closer, all whilst continuing to inspect you. You couldn't tell if she was checking you out, or showing off her girlfriend.
Seeing them this close took you back to the day you were first made aware of Zariyah's existence, and the onslaught of thoughts and feelings the imagery brought on, feelings that were far too intrusive and confusing to unpack.
Zariyah was speaking to Hakeem about God knows what, never leaving Riri’s side for the duration of the conversation. Whatever they were talking about must've been engaging enough, because she remained entirely unaware of the ongoing staring match happening between you and the shorter girl attached to her hips.
The longer you kept watch of the pair, you began noticing similarities in their outfits. Zariyah’s top had accents of red that complemented Riri's jersey, and she wore a gold necklace that mirrored Riri’s, but with a “Z” instead of an “R.” They were matching, in such a subtle way. The coordination only made obvious to one paying the utmost attention, which apparently you were.
“So you not gon introduce me to yo girl Keem?” That statement knocked you out of your head.
You blinked, declaring your defeat in the competition, and upon reopening your eyes, you found there were two new sets focused on you. Riri hadn't looked away—and now—her girlfriend—and your boyfriend had joined in on the ogling.
You felt as though you were on display, like a brand new exhibit being unveiled to the public. You didn't know what to say, what to do as they continued to stare. So you stood there, awkwardly praying someone would speak first before you had to. Riri was smirking, acutely aware of the discomfort you felt, holding zero plans to ease it.
“Aww, she's shy.” Zariyah cooed, like you were some sort of child in need of encouragement. “Come over here cutie.”
And before you had a chance to protest, you were walking towards the three of them with haste. You thought back to the way Zariyah spoke to Riri earlier, understanding now, that her adherence was indeed not a choice—the red haired girl was simply entitled to obedience—yours included.
“You don't speak?” Zariyah questioned, with a curious head tilt, her tone made sultry on purpose. She peered over at you through dramatic lashes, and you choked embarrassingly.
Your lips were agape like a fish. You were floundering, praying your brain would stop short circuiting long enough to provide the skills necessary to hold a conversation. How was it that a girl so foreign to you, held all the power to render you speechless?
“Any other time she don't know how to shut up.” Riri muttered. That fucking smirk, were you the only one seeing it, oh my god.
Your eye roll was unavoidable, which your boyfriend caught. “Aye Ri, chill.”
“Yeah Ri, chill.” Zariyah echoed mockingly with a smirk of her own. They both had their eyes on you now, watching you intently with similar intensity, and your body knew not how to respond.
“Come here, sit next to me, let's chat.” And Zariyah took your hand, guiding you to the couch. You still hadn't spoken, but off you went with her, unwilling to look behind you. You already knew the sight you would be greeted with: Riri, fuming as she was made to watch the girl she arrived with saunter off hand in hand with you of all people.
The thought made you smile a little. You still had the upper hand. Truthfully, there was no reason for you to think otherwise. She sought you out last week to offer an “apology”, albeit a garbage one. And you didn't accept, which in the moment, seemed to stump the young genius.
Now, you held the attention of the girl she most revered. You were winning. Fantastic, you thought—it was time Riri Williams learned you were not one to be fucked with.
•••
“So you're an engineering major too?” Riy (she insisted you call her that) asked, tucking one of your crimson locs behind your ear.
You bit your lip and nodded, “Mhmm. I’ve always liked to keep my hands busy, started when I was a kid as a distraction from life and shit. The math I just picked up along the way.”
“You and Ri are so alike, she's good with her hands too. Building shit I mean.” She giggled, deliberately glancing over at a stoic looking Riri. “But, her hands ain't as pretty as yours.”
Zariyah reached for your palm, threading her fingers through yours with zero effort, and you forced an exhale. You admired the way her sharp stilettos looked wrapped around your own, reveled in the feel of her hand in yours. The more she spoke, the more enraptured you became with the curves of her perfectly lined lips. Seeing her tattoos up close seemed otherworldly, and it took fighting every muscle in your body not to reach out and touch.
“You think so?” You responded, head cocked to the side.
Her teeth; so perfect; so straight, and that golden bead sitting pretty in the center of her tongue. What on earth were you to do with the excitement elicited by that?
You loved getting to know her, even if the act had begun as a ploy to get under Riri’s skin. A ploy that proved fruitful, might you add.
She was ducked off in a corner of the living room: silent, still, watching. Though the Sun had begun a sluggish decline, a glow was still present enough for you to see her in the room, and Riri most certainly saw you.
You kept hold of Zariyah’s hand, allowing your eyes to glance Riri’s way. Her face remained expressionless, but her disposition was very discernable. Uncertainty was simmering in your gut, reminding you of your ongoing trudge through uncharted waters.
It would be unwise to continue testing Riri in this way, yet despite your apprehension, you could not locate your actual desire to stop. So you didn't. Riri was already reacting; the damage already done, what sense would it make to retreat now? Clearly, your only option here was to best her, right?
Her anger was nothing short of tangible, and by the way Riy leaned in closer, it was evident she felt it too. “Yup. Yours are way softer too.” Zariyah blinked. “I like that.”
Large, dark eyes fixated on your face, holding your stare, causing you to shudder inwardly. Her face was mere inches away, the heat radiating off her creating a desperate union with yours. You were going to keep it together, you had to, despite your incessant desire to crumble the longer Zariyah kept watch of you, because—you still remained the main focus of Riri’s death glare.
“I’m happy to know that my soft hands have your attention, Zariyah.” You bit your lip again, eyes flickering briefly to the seething scientist, “I am intrigued as to why that is though.”
Your confidence was nothing more than a performance. God, you barely recognized yourself now. Truly, who were you? Antagonizing Riri by undeniably flirting with her girlfriend, all whilst your own boyfriend remained clueless in the same room.
Hakeem wasn't even a concern in the forefront of your mind if you were being honest; your previous engagement made an afterthought the second his best friend waltz through the front door. It all seemed so insignificant now, your obsessing over your sex life, or rather the lack thereof.
What did concern you though, was the ease in which you were able to keep up with Zariyah's flirting, and the magnitude of which you enjoyed it. You’d barely flirted this much with Hakeem throughout the duration of your relationship. The incentive was never present.
Riy leaned forward, her full lips dangerously near, the disappearing distance between them and yours sure to crack your façade. She was so close now, so determined as her eyes drifted Riri’s way.
She turned her attention back to you with a sly smile. And her mouth kept coming towards you until it met your ear, then she exhaled, the lusty blow of air sending a tingle up your spine, and you froze. “You tryna find out?” She whispered without skipping a beat.
Her voice was low, an intrusive murmur that sent you spiraling. Zariyah's breath caressed your ear willfully. If your brain had been short circuiting before, the poor thing must've been utterly destroyed now, far beyond repair.
You swallowed, “A-And what if I am?” You did not intend to say that out loud, but your thoughts seemed more in control of your body now than you were. Yet still, you did not feel the need to take it back.
You had to remind yourself; you were only doing this to spite Riri. You wanted to piss her off, because she deserved it.
But if that were the case, why did you feel so alive right now? Why were you still holding tight to Zariyah's hand, with no plans of letting her go? Her lips hovered in front of yours minutes ago, a moment suspended in time, and you'd managed to convince yourself a kiss was afoot. What reason did you have to believe so? And why had you been prepared for it to happen?
Riri was pissed, your plan worked, so why were you finding it difficult to give Zariyah up?
You were only managing to steer yourself into a state of panic. All these impure thoughts—they were not natural—they were not you. Your heart pounded in your heated sternum, like a runaway train with no breaks, threatening to derail itself the longer you were made to sit and process what you felt.
Zariyah’s hand had become an unpleasant weight in yours now, sweaty and sticky from the prolonged grip. And she was aware of it, cocking her eyebrow to the ceiling when you yanked yourself free of her with defensive gusto. She only smirked, so maniacally, so swiftly, causing you to gulp. She knew the effect she had on you, your body and your mind, and she was aware of your internal struggle with resisting her.
You were slowly learning that everything about this girl's existence was intentional, simply from the way she looked at you now, wordless as she peered deep into your cowering soul with those shadowy, seduction stacked eyes. Zariyah could destroy you, here, now, if it were her wish. And God help you, you would permit it.
Her eyes pandered to Riri, and so did yours, not without reluctance of course. Her curls shielded her eyes, but you could tell the straight line across Riri’s face had been one constructed to convey ennui. Zariyah did too, which was why she cracked a smile, biting her lip triumphantly when finally, her actions bullied Riri straight out of Hakeem's apartment.
And it all clicked then, just as Riri slammed the door shut. You were too distracted to recognize what was happening before, by Riri, by her girlfriend. But now, it was made obvious. Whilst you played a pathetic game of checkers, Zariyah played chess, and both yourself and Riri were her pawns.
She was meticulous in the way she manipulated you, which explained your behavior, and your confusing feelings. She possessed the strategy you lacked, subtly guiding you into her traps, orchestrating your responses, all for the same result you wanted to garner. She wanted Riri snarling, and how silly were you to believe you were the one responsible for evoking that emotion out of the Chicago native?
There was a clear winner here, and she knew it was her title to claim. Zariyah noted your frown of comprehension, “Aww, cheer up babe, you really helped me out today. I really appreciate that, y’ know?”
As if you needed more reason to feel utterly embarrassed.
You watched her fix her hair next to you, and reapply her lip gloss in her camera. She was so unbothered by everything around her, whereas you couldn't help but hone in on it all. The betrayal you felt, it cut you deeper than it should. You seriously believed Zariyah sought friendship from you.
“You used me to make Riri jealous? Why?” You asked, genuinely wanting an explanation.
She shrugged, “To get my lick back.”
“But why me? You don't even know me. A-And Riri doesn't even care about me.”
Riy laughed, placing a hand on your shoulder, “You're funny. I knew I actually liked you.” She twirled one of your locs around her finger before looking you in the eye, “Look, I really am sorry I got you mixed up in my shit with Riri, seriously, but I saw an opportunity and I took it. Nothing personal. Besides, not like you wasn't doing the same thing, right?”
Your eyes widened, dumbfounded by her very…true accusation. Was this girl indeed all knowing? You stuttered, searching your brain for a believable response, but Zariyah put a stop to that with a single finger pressed to your lips. “You're stuttering, which makes me think you're gonna lie, and although I do think you're cute, I don't think you know how to lie very well, so let's save it, hmm? You had your reasons, I had mine.”
She got up soon after, alerting you she was headed to the bathroom as you sat there, defeated.
When you looked up, Hakeem was walking your way just as Zariyah began her departure, his previous engagement with a game of beer pong long abandoned. “Riy, Ima need you to stop flirting with my girl, Ion like that shit.”
“Why? You scared Ima take her from you?” Zariyah stood behind the couch, her wink kick starting the engine in your chest.
By this time, Hakeem was plopped beside you, arm around your exposed waist, snaking you closer, the position much similar to the hold Riri held her girl in when they’d first arrived. “Yes nigga. I know the typa time you be on.” His tone was light; playful; but for some reason, you couldn't shake the feeling that there was to be legitimate concern on his part.
“This bathroom better be clean when I go in there Hakeem, I ain't playing with you.” Zariyah sing-songed, purposefully disregarding your boyfriend's remark. She strutted away so gracefully, and you found it impossible to rip your gaze from her sculpted hips as they jumped.
He only laughed before returning his attention to you, gently tilting your face to meet his. “You okay baby girl?”
You nodded, still distracted, still overwhelmed.
“You sure? I saw you talking to Riy, she ain't say nothing weird right? I know she can be a little…”
Huh, apparently he had not been as oblivious to your whereabouts as you previously thought. Certainly offering you far more regard than you'd offered him all night. “Intense?” You finished for him.
“Yeah.”
“She didn't say nothing…too weird.” You faked a laugh. “I think I just need some air. No shade, but I been in your apartment since last night, and now there's niggas here…I, I just need to step out for a bit.”
Hakeem's laugh was one of authenticity, far more passionate than your own as he agreed with your statement. “Okay, okay, I get it. No problem with that. I am sorry for not telling you people was coming over sooner.”
“You're sorry for not telling me you were having a party, you mean.”
“Social gathering.” He corrected coyly, and his dimple edged smile helped free one of your own, a real one this time, perhaps releasing the only real sense of joy you’d felt all day.
He got up, outstretched his arm, and you took it, allowing him to guide you to the door. “Promise you’ll come back?”
Damn him and those puppy dog eyes, and that lip bite. How were you to deny him? “I will.”
“Good.” He pecked your cheek, reluctant to let you walk out the door. “Oh! And if you see Ri out there, tell her to get her lil ass back in here, we finna hop on the game.”
You were already halfway down the hallway before he finished his sentence, harboring no intentions of fulfilling his request.
•••
The gentle night air greeted you with a soft caress as you stepped outside. You exhaled, breath synchronizing with the rhythm of the breeze. Each inhale brought you a sense of solace, and you were finally able to quiet all the noise in your head. This was the escape you sought, from Zariyah’s mind games, and your boyfriend’s insufferable friends.
However, your serenity was short-lived. It would be just your luck to run into Riri within seconds of entering the parking lot. She had yet to detect your presence, too preoccupied with the happenings in her phone. She looked visibly calmer now, though her brows remained knitted together as she sat passively on the hood of her car.
You shouldn't stare; staring was impolite. But, the sight of her leaning against that muscle car, scowling at the world, was irresistibly captivating. Encountering Riri with her defenses down, oblivious to your observation, was a rarity. Only those closest to her got the privilege of witnessing her so relaxed, people like Hakeem, like Zariyah—not people like you. So you allowed yourself to appreciate, and get lost in this version of her.
“Man, what the hell do you want?” Riri’s voice was a distant echo, drowned out by the mesmerizing dance of her curls wafting in the wind.
You shook your head, “Huh?”
“You can't hear or something?” She huffed, rolling her eyes. “The fuck is really wrong with you?”
Apparently, you were incorrect about her new found state of relaxation, because it took only the sight of you to get her worked up again. You were used to her harsh tone when addressing you, but honestly, you were over this pattern of undeserved verbal abuse.
“Excuse me?” Ice coated your voice, its chill serving as a warning she deliberately chose not to heed.
Riri continued behaving in a disinterested manner, her small body still slumped against her car, face splashed in annoyance. Yet, a spark ignited in her eyes, one that invited a challenge as she opened her mouth to mock you. “That's all you have to say? Excuse me?”
“Yeah Riri, that's what I have to say. Because I’m giving you a chance to clarify what the fuck you just said to me.”
“So I guess I should give you a chance to clarify what the fuck that was upstairs then, right?” She sniffed, “Since we being generous and shit.”
You deflected, though you were fully aware of her implication, “Who the fuck do you think you be talking to sometimes? Like honestly?”
She chuckled sardonically, glancing around the empty parking lot before her eyes returned to where you stood across from her. “You see anybody else but the two of us out here?”
What an infuriating little human she was. She had an uncanny ability to wind you up, a skill unique to her alone, and knowing this only fueled your anger further. “It's really sad that you don't got no regard for the way you treat people. That shit ain't cute, it's childish as fuck.”
“Maybe you're just too sensitive.”
“And me flirting with your girlfriend, was that too sensitive for you?” You snapped furiously.
You’d received the don’t play with fire talk as a child. Fire was catching, and prior to now, you’d abided by this teaching. But Riri possessed an unyielding power to make you do things you’d never previously done—feel things you shouldn't possibly feel. The inferno she unleashed within you was inextinguishable, leaving you with no other fate than to burn. And you’d ensure it was to be hers as well—you'd make her burn alongside you.
It would be worth it, to see that look on her face, the one she struggled to make disappear before you could notice.
But she was not swift enough.
Moonlight washed Riri’s face, accentuating the glint of irritation swirling in her pupils, and you knew you had her.
“And what, you think you special or sumn cause Zariyah gave you a lil attention?” Though she feigned nonchalance, jealousy weighed heavy on her words, enticing you, persuading you to fan the flames of Riri’s fury. “Cause you not. She probably already forgot your name, and that's if she even bothered to ask for it.”
You opened your mouth to speak, “I–”
Riri pushed herself off of the hood of her car. She was standing in front of you now, eyes narrowed, seething. “But while we on the topic, let's talk about you flirting with my girlfriend. How you go from ignoring me one week, to flirting with Zariyah to get a reaction out of me the next? You so damn inconsistent.”
“I’m inconsistent? Have you even met yourself, Riri?! I knew you was full of shit, but god fucking damn!” Your voice was climbing in volume, but you couldn't bring yourself to care; This eruption was months in the making. “Everything about you is inconsistent, and confusing, a-and fucking maddening! Can't even be in the same room with you without worrying about breathing too hard, or-or thinking too loud!”
An identifiable twinge of hurt flashed in Riri’s irises, stirring up a momentary rush of remorse within you, that was until, she began to speak. “And you're just sooo fucking innocent, right? It's always ‘woe is fucking me’ with you, and I’m just the asshole who always got a problem with you. That's what you believe, right?”
“What else am I supposed to believe, Riri?”
“You still ain't answered my question. What the fuck was all that shit with Zariyah about? That shit was innocent to you? I know why she did what she did, but what reason did you have to be doing that shit in my face? How you gon spin this to make yourself the victim now? Huh?”
The wildness in her eyes terrified you. You were unable to refute her accusations. Yes, you wanted to get her to this point; angry; jealous—you wanted to hurt her—and you did. But at what cost…
Your spitefulness towards her was causing you to lose sight of yourself. This wasn't you, standing outside your boyfriend's building, in a screaming match with his best friend…
You made eye contact with her, shaking your head, “Before today, I’d never done anything other than try to get you to like me.” You admitted.
“I know you’d like to believe that.”
“Then oh my God, fucking tell me! Tell me what I did to you so I can apologize, and we can move the fuck on! Cause I’m tired Riri, I’m fucking exhausted, aren't you?!”
“You wanna know what you did?”
You nodded, arms crossed, “Yes.”
“You exist!” A whisper spat with stinging venom. “You existing is a problem for me. I can't fucking escape you. It doesn't matter what I do, or where I go. You're always gonna be in my head, and you're always gonna be with him. Nothing I can do about that though.”
Stunned into silence, your body housed only the ability to stare.
She stared back at you, wordless for a while, intensifying the insanity taking place in your head.
You studied her face as though it were a lesson you were learning for the first time, memorizing the striking beauty written into her visage. Her undeniable comeliness was greatly unsettling, and it overwhelmed you.
“But fuck…” She exhaled, stepping in so close, your chests collided. Her heart’s presence was palpable, its rhythmic beat calling on the echo of yours. But this proximity did not seem enough for Riri. She breathed you in, deep, eyes fixated on your parted lips before forcing them to discover yours again beneath the celestial sky, “I guess you're right, I am full of shit, because as much as I complain, I-I still want you–”
“Fuck! What is wrong with me!” She cursed herself out loud, pulling at her roots. “Just go inside bruh.”
You blinked for the first time in minutes, “What? Riri what– I–I”
“Go inside.” She repeated. It was more of a demand than anything else, and it seemed most logical to acquiesce to it.
Your mind was in complete disarray. How were you supposed to think straight right now, with a racing heart chasing a finish line that existed outside of your bosom?
What the fuck was all of that? What were you supposed to do with Riri’s words?
There was absolutely no way you would be able to handle this—whatever this was—on top of everything else hammering away at your brain. Your head throbbed violently, and you could feel the vein in your forehead bulging from beneath your skin.
So you slowly began to back away, eyes locked on Riri’s pleading ones. Her eyes… it seemed an invasion to witness them so…soft, and filled to the brim with vulnerability. The sight broke your heart.
This was too much.
You stumbled slightly as you turned away from her, speed walking back towards the door after tossing one last glance Riri's way. She appeared far more frustrated than how you first met her out here, but said frustration was geared toward herself now.
What the fuck?
Each step forward was heavier than the one prior, as though your body wanted to combat Riri’s command for you to flee. You weren't even sure leaving was the right thing to do. But what would you do if you stayed? What would it mean if you wanted to stay?
Your thoughts were a web of questions, with each answer producing truths and realizations that seemed too frightening to disentangle. You were so far removed from everything happening outside your head that the footsteps imitating yours went undetected. As you moved to pull the door open, the person quickened their pace, finally closing the gap between you and them.
“Hey you!” The blonde boy slurred, his voice reeking of inebriation. “Hold that door open!”
You flinched at the sudden intrusion, but you never stopped walking to acknowledge his request.
The footsteps kept coming though, apparently he’d gotten in, and was continuing on your tail. “Didn't you hear me back there? S’was the guy asking you to h-hold the door.” He laughed halfheartedly.
Yet still, you refused to respond, mind set on reaching the elevator.
“Oh, okay, I get it. You're one of those ‘play hard to get’ types.”
That remark made you roll your eyes and you muttered to yourself, “I don't got time for this shit.”
Irritated by your lack of response, he grew impatient. “Hey what's with the attitude? M’just making conversion. I-I mean con-ver-say-shun.” He chuckled , sounding out the syllables of the word.
“Can you leave me the fuck alone?” You barked, “I don't wanna have no damn conversation with you.”
But instead of backing off, your dismissal seemed to only infuriate him more, “Why you gotta be a fucking bitch?” He gripped your wrist before you could push the elevator button, the contact sending a jolt of panic through your body. “I just wanna talk to you.”
“Get your fucking hand off me. Now.” You repeated calmly, pulling yourself free from his hold.
You were all geared up to knee him in the balls, just as Riri’s voice came wafting down the hallway. “I know you heard her say get your hand off her? Or are your ears still fucked up from the last time a girl had to beat your ass?”
And it was instant, the way he dropped your arm, freezing right where he stood. “This doesn't concern you Riri.”
“If it concerns her, then it concerns me.” She stood slightly in front of you now, eyeing him. She shielded you from the boy with fierce protection, well, that was if your deduction of her stance was indeed a correct one. “You don't even live in this building Matt, get the fuck on.”
You took back the opportunity Riri’s emergence had stolen away from you when she moved, lifting your knee until the joint connected to his groin. You slammed into him, hard, relishing the visual of him tumbling to the floor in agony.
Riri said nothing, she only smirked as she pressed the elevator button for you, allowing you to step on ahead of her.
When the doors shut, the two of you were standing shoulder to shoulder. Silent. Unmoving. The tension you had momentarily escaped now surged back, saturating the atmosphere with an oppressive weight, and you found yourself anxiously counting each floor as the elevator ascended.
It dawned on you then—you were more terrified of being alone with Riri on this elevator than you had been of being accosted by a stranger.
“You okay?” She finally asked, sounding sincere.
You nodded, “Yeah, I’m, I’m good.” You cleared your throat. “But don't tell Hakeem, okay?”
Riri’s bewildered eyes made it seem like you had two heads. “Some random nigga just basically assaulted you and you don't plan on telling your boyfriend?”
“I just don't want any more unnecessary drama.”
She laughed a little in disbelief, “If you was my girl… and some shit like that happened, I’d wanna know.”
If you were her–
You shook that blasphemy from your thoughts, opting to address her previous statement instead, “He ain't seem that random though. Seemed like y’all knew each other.”
“Something like that, yeah.” She chuckled to herself.
When the doors opened on Hakeem’s floor, once again, Riri made space for you to walk ahead of her. And she trekked close behind, obnoxiously so.
“Promise you won't say anything?”
She scrutinized you with mirthful eyes, scanning your face for something you were unaware existed there before agreeing. “Aight.”
And then she opened the door, stepping into the apartment ahead of you this time.
“Baby! You're back!” Hakeem greeted, a little too excitedly. “And you found Riri!”
It took absolutely no effort for Riri to disappear into the crowd with her best friend. And you envied that, because unfortunately for you, her words were not so easily evaded.
•••
For the rest of the night Riri kept her distance, sticking to Hakeem’s side like glue. She casted covert glances your way, believing you oblivious to her scrutiny, but beyond the stolen stares, she behaved as though you did not exist in the same room as her—as though she hadn't confessed to… Well, that was the part you deemed most maddening—the way Riri’s confession left you grasping for clarity in the shadows of her words.
I still want you–
Her declaration stunned her more than it did you, this truth made evident by the instant regret following the spitting of her unfinished sentence. Part of you felt indebted to Riri’s restraint, because had she completed that thought, you were certain your worlds would implode.
You weren't ready for that.
But, unfortunately for you, your brain did not concur. Your ongoing headache worsened as you sat on a bar stool, thinking, weaving your own narratives about the remark Riri chose to swallow, none of them quelling.
You twisted the stool from side to side, wishing desperately to be home in your bed, peacefully getting lost in the labyrinth of your own mind without the presence of unknown onlookers. Luckily, Hakeem’s guest list began to dwindle, with only a few stragglers refusing to go home.
“Uh-oh, I know that look.” You didn't need to turn to know it was Zariyah addressing you.
You didn't answer. The decision to ignore her came with no challenge, a quiet act of self-preservation. You allowed the chatter and animated conversations happening around you to capture your attention; a focal point; a place to designate the frustrations aspiring to swallow you whole.
But your silence did not deter her. “I promise, I come in peace this time.”
Still, your refusal to respond stretched on. It wasn't difficult to identify the smile in her voice, but it only made you wonder how much it was to be trusted.
Your eyes fanned the mostly sparse living room, defying your want to concentrate on anything that wasn't Riri. You located her with ease, her small figure lodged beside Hakeem's on the couch. They were playing Mario Kart, with Hakeem leading the race and Riri throwing a tantrum because, “Bruh, the only reason you winning is cause you stole Princess Peach when you know I was finna pick her.”
In any other circumstance you'd laugh at her misfortune, but your misery refused to allow simple pleasures. For she was lonely, and she sought company in you.
“You know, whatever Riri did, she's not gon apologize.” Zariyah stated knowingly, her stare traveling in the direction yours resided. “It's like defiance is hardwired into her DNA or something.”
“Riri didn't do–”
“Does your face know that?” She laughed.
Finally, you turned to face her, meeting her far too wide, far too practiced knee-weakening smile. It was genuine this go round, no ulterior motives behind it. “I’m gonna offer you some advice, because despite what you might think, I actually kinda like you.”
You weren't sure your body bore the capacity to handle any more unthwarted information, but as you’d learned today, Zariyah wasn't keen on awarding choices. “Don't let Riri suck you into her shit. It's tempting, I know, but it won't end well for you.”
You swallowed, actively forcing your brain to mull over Zariyah’s counsel. She was like divinity personified, and it was fucking freaky. You were silent as the pair of you continued gazing in the direction of your respective partners, but Hakeem was not the one your eyes vied for. From your position, you were only able to identify half of Riri’s face, the other half sheltered by her curls, protecting her from your ridiculing glare.
How was she able to present so together after everything that passed between the two of you outside, when your internal turmoil was plastered all over your face?
You envied that, and said envy birthed bitterness.
“Is that what she did to you? Suck you in?” You inquired after a while.
“Mmm, I wouldn't say that, everything I’ve experienced with Riri has been of my own volition. But, I do think it was hardwired into my DNA to fall for her.” A manicured hand climbed her bosom, reaching to fiddle with the golden “Z” sitting pretty on her chest, “Honestly I think it's impossible for anyone to know Riri and not fall for her in some way.”
Zariyah was like a bug in your ear, vaguely suggesting, subtly guiding, whilst still purposefully withholding. Here you were believing her to be done with the games—silly you. “Why are you telling me this?”
She bit her lip suggestively, “Because, like I said, I kinda like you. And I think you're in over your head. And at the rate you're going, you're bound to land flat on your pretty face. I’d hate to see that.”
Involuntarily, your head sprung to the side, allowing for a puzzled expression to appear on your face.
She sensed your confusion, your hesitancy, much like she detected each of your previous emotions. Zariyah moved her body so she would loom before you, instead of beside, acting as a barrier between you and the object of all your abhorrences. “You should listen to me.”
You watched as Zariyah puckered her glossed lips, her action going unrecognized until her sticky mouth had already left your cheek. “I’m usually right.” You felt the lastings of her lip gloss lingering on your hot face, and you sat frozen, watching her strut towards the distracted scientist.
“Ri! I’m ready to go, can we leave?” She whined, tossing her body over the back of the couch.
Riri waved her off, “Yeah, in a lil bit.”
“I’m ready now, I want to leave now.”
“I said in a lil bit, damn.” Her eyes never left the TV screen, oblivious to Zariyah's materializing fury.
Hakeem glanced over his shoulder, taking note of the visibly pissed off girl posted behind him, and he smirked. “Maybe it is time for you to take yo sorry ass home Ri, you already losing, listen to yo girlfriend and call it a night.”
That tone his voice carried, it was one easily deduced. He was baiting Riri.
“Man how many times I gotta tell you, Zariyah ain't my motherfucking girlfriend. Stop saying that shit.”
And regrettably for her, she took it.
A slew of uncomfortable gasps blanketed the room as Riri’s assertion permeated the air. Her words remained an echo in the disappearing crowd, silencing the buzzing hive of chatter and laughter.
Every eye turned toward the couple, stunned.
Zariyah's vibrant afro seemed to mirror her escalating rage, each curl igniting like a matchstick, fueling the furnace crackling within her. Her anger, hot and unmistakable, radiated outward, making her hair appear almost ablaze under the lights. Gone were the mischievous eyes she regarded you with moments ago. Now, they glinted with the intensity of flickering flames.
The onlookers, captivated by the spectacle, watched silently as Zariyah’s fury reached its zenith.
That was until, she shattered said silence entirely. “Fuck you, Riri.”
Unable to bear the humiliation any longer, she turned on her heel, her scarlet fro bouncing with the ferocity of her movements. Each step she took towards the door left a trail of scorching anger in its wake, like falling embers landing in a bed of ashes. The door slammed shut behind her with a resounding thud, punctuating her departure.
And by the time Riri finally realized the damage she'd done, it was far too late. You noted her shame as she panned the watching room; she felt exposed; inspected, and although it was difficult to pinpoint your own emotions pertaining to the situation, you knew you harbored no sympathy for Riri.
If this moment of public dissection was to present self reflection, she should welcome it. You wanted her to bake in her embarrassment. It was about time she got a dose of the medicine she dished out.
“Nigga!” Hakeem's screech brought you back to reality. He was on his feet, dragging Riri to the door. “Go after her, the fuck is wrong with you?!”
His outrage was ironic, considering he practically coaxed Riri’s reaction out of her.
Riri scoffed, “Nigga the fuck is wrong with you? Why would you even say that shit to me when you know she in the room? Fuck!”
She appeared acutely aware of her fuck up, vexation tensing her strong shoulders.
“What if she don't want me to come after her? She literally said fuck you to my face, she don't wanna see me.”
For a girl, Riri’s logic resembled that of a man’s. How could she possibly question if following after Zariyah was the right thing to do? You’d only known Zariyah for a few hours, but after your shared conversation earlier, you were pretty confident in the assumption that she would eventually forgive Riri. She’d undoubtedly make her grovel, which would be deserved, but she should want to grovel, if she were truly remorseful.
It's what you'd do if it were you in Zariyah's position. Riri would have to plead, be so desperate for absolution, that she would be willing to do anything to have it bestowed upon her.
And it sounded like Hakeem agreed, “Of course she don't wanna see yo ass. But that don't mean you don't still go. You fucked up and you gotta own that. How you think it's gon look if you don't go? You tryna make shit worse for yourself?”
Riri’s eyes traveled past her best friend, on an urgent quest for you. Her gaze, intense and unwavering, spoke to you with words her lips could not. In the dim light, those deep browns, framed by long, dark lashes held a longing that was both familiar and haunting.
For reasons unbeknownst to you, Riri was after your opinion—your permission.
You’d think yourself delusional for even drawing such a conclusion, if you hadn't instantly recognized her body language. She stood there, almost trembling, the tension in her body a testament to her internal conflict. It was the same demeanor she held when she pleaded with you earlier, the same vulnerability filling her yearning eyes.
Her plea was an absurd one, in what world would Riri Williams need your permission to do anything, especially this?
Terror grew in your gut the longer you watched her watch you. In those brief, silent moments, her eyes reached out, desperate for the allowance you felt disinclined to give.
Why did you not want her to have it? Why did you not want her to go?
Nevertheless, you granted her request, nodding in her direction as you ignored the stinging burn starting in your chest. You watched Riri’s face contort, displaying a myriad of emotions before settling on one: acceptance.
And then she glanced back at Hakeem, who looked back at you. You noted his confused expression, feeling caught, and a rapid panic began to spread throughout your limbs. But your boyfriend didn't acknowledge any suspicion, he turned his focus back to his very flustered looking best friend, addressing her sternly this time. “Ri, get the fuck out of here and go get your girl.”
And that's exactly what she did, leaving you and your aching heart behind.
•••
The morning Sun showered you in its golden rays, excited to greet you as you arose. But you, on the other hand, did not see it fit to return the warm welcome, because unlike Hakeem, sleep refused to take you last night. You tossed and turned, eluding your dreams and the ghostly figure that haunted them.
Whenever your weary eyelids began to fall, you were bombarded by flashes of defiant curls, a knowing smirk cemented on a far more defiant face, and dark, cavernous brown eyes constructed solely to dissect and pick apart your innards. Typically, you coveted your time spent slumbering between your boyfriend’s arms. Hakeem held you steadily as you two slept, providing unwavering security and comfort, and you often looked forward to nights at Hakeem’s for this reason.
But last night held a different feel to it. Rather than supplying the comfort you were accustomed to, Hakeem’s tight embrace was suffocating, so when you were certain he’d drifted completely, you wiggled yourself free of his hold. Guilt was eating you alive. Sprawled on your back, gazing up at his star covered ceiling, you listened to the whispers echoed by your turbulent conscience.
There was no silencing the noise—there was only endurance.
You endured your brain's obsession with the way Riri looked at you with those fucking eyes that knew no bounds. You endured the way she spoke in riddles, her words and tone conveying two entirely different things, and she made it your responsibility to decode them.
It angered you that she possessed such power to steal your sleep from you without even being physically present. Zariyah tried warning you about the dangers of entangling yourself with the likes of this maddening girl, but it was too late—it seemed there was no divot inside your mind that could armor you against the wrath of Riri Williams’ infiltration.
So you remained awake until the Sun came up, eager to get your day started and over with all at once.
It was Monday, and contrary to the general consensus, you loved Mondays. Mondays brought with them opportunity, a chance to leave the weekend behind, to leave Riri and all her demons behind.
She wouldn't ruin today for you, how could she if you harbored no plans of running into her at all? You exited Hakeem's apartment hastily after he went for his morning run, leaving a note for him to find when he returned.
Your goals for this forgiving day: Complete your two classes, then spend a few hours studying before heading to work. You also planned to text your boyfriend later in the day, with a makeshift excuse as to why you couldn't see him; there was no chancing a run in with his best friend.
You knew that Riri’s classes were on the other side of campus, but the extra precaution grounded you as you strutted up the library steps, draping you in the sense of control you’d been lacking lately. You waved to your classmate Whitney as you walked to the study room you reserved, mind clear and goal oriented.
You were only struggling with one class: Thermodynamics. Truthfully, the only reason you were behind was because you tanked your last quiz, which coincidentally happened on the exact same day your mother called. Four months of radio silence after your refusal to attend a school closer to home, just to call out of the blue. For the sake of your mental health, you opted to let the phone ring, unanswered. She didn't get to do that; you wouldn't allow her pathetic attempt of weaseling back into your life.
But that decision sort of ricocheted, because instead of moving forward with your day, you spent hours obsessing over the voicemail she left, an obsession that interfered with your performance on assessments.
It was just like her to do this. Your mother wasn't a planner, but there wasn't a task she performed without intent. And you harbored no doubt about this impromptu phone call being intentional. Her goal was to fuck with your day, and although she was unaware of exactly how her actions would do that, she was confident in the mere possibility.
A possibility turned reality, as she'd accomplished exactly what she'd set out to do.
Today was the day to rectify that though. You weren't exactly failing the class, but you were not satisfied with your current grade. So, it was time you familiarized yourself with the four laws of thermodynamics. You sat down, pulled your laptop out of your bag, and got to work.
However, it appeared that your body had its own agenda, defying your intentions with an unwavering resolve.
You were jolted from your slumber by an insistent tapping on the study room window, and you sluggishly peeled open your eyes, struggling to shake off the heavy veil of drowsiness.
A groan flew free as your eyes followed the impatient rapping. There were two girls peering at you through the glass with wide eyes, one tall and dark, the other shorter with a more tan complexion, but despite their differences in physical appearance, they both wore the same perplexed look on their faces.
And it was then that you glanced at the clock on the wall.
3:46 pm. Shit.
The sleep you fled the night prior, had finally caught up to you, assailing you amidst your dedicated study time. You managed to barely reach chapter three before dozing off completely, and now, your time in the study room was over. Embarrassingly, you began packing your things, mumbling to yourself as you made your way to the door.
“I am so sorry, I lost track of time.” You apologized, tossing your backpack onto your shoulder.
They assured you it wasn't a problem, and you stepped out of their way hurriedly so they could take your place in the room, tossing one last “Sorry,” their way.
“Fuck, fuck, fuck!” To add insult to injury, you were also late for work, and Benny had been on your ass about your tardiness over the past few weeks. “I’m definitely getting fi–”
It was immediate, the collision between shoulder and forehead, a halo of curls blinding your vision, the same halo that haunted your dreams, turning them into nightmares. The impact sent your binder tumbling to the ground, sheets of paper fluttering down like delicate leaves across the library floor. A few curious heads turned in your direction, and you felt the heat rising in your cheek. Determined to minimize the spectacle, you hastily gathered your belongings, intent on making a swift exit.
But Riri’s voice halted you dead in your tracks, “Ion like that you're making a habit of walking away from me.” She was behind you now, the proximity of her voice a clear indicator. “The fuck is up with that?”
You felt that inferno crackle awake inside you, rousing your growing irritation, and you cursed the way it took only words for her to rile you up. You whipped around to face her, your crimson locs slithering behind your back like seething serpents.
She was smirking, hand outstretched, clutching a worksheet you seemed to have missed. “And your handwriting is still ugly as hell.”
“Fuck off Riri, I’m not dealing with your bullshit, not today.” Your eye twitched.
“Damn, who pissed in your cereal?”
You were halfway to the door when nimble fingers strangled your wrist. “Okay, okay. I’m sorry.”
Surely you didn't hear that correctly. “Did you just say the words ‘I’m sorry’ without suffering a cerebral hemorrhage?”
Riri scratched her eyebrow, eyes hitting the floor as she averted yours. “Yeah, uh… that's kinda what I wanna talk to you about. I wanna apologize, officially I mean. I was actually gon head over to uh, Freeda's in a lil bit, I know your last class ended already, and I figured you were already at work, but I had to stop here first to get a book for class, and then I saw you, and I thought, no time like the present, I mean why not just do it now…”
You couldn't believe it. Was Riri really rambling to you right now?
“…so I started walking towards you and–”
You cut her off, “Stop. You're saying way too many irrelevant things.” You were still in disbelief, still guarded as you eyed her suspiciously. “What exactly are you apologizing for, Riri?”
“For, um, all of it. Everything.” Her chocolate tinted eyes melted before you, “I'm really sorry for the way I've been treating you ever since you started dating Keem. Actually, I'm sorry for how I treated you even before y’all got together for real.” Riri paused, clearing her throat awkwardly, waiting for an interjection on your part.
But truthfully, you hadn't one to give. You were so blindsided by her apology that you found words hard to come by.
Once she realized you weren't planning to reply, she continued, shoving her hands into the pockets of her shorts. “I know this is too fucking late, and I been bullshitting you, but I’m being serious this time. You uh, you ain't deserve none of that. You're a good person, and it's not like I didn't know that this whole time, I did. I don't know why it's so hard for me to admit that. I guess I was just intimidated by the way it takes no effort for you to be kind, and welcoming, and understanding… I– I’m just really fucking sorry, okay?”
Her fro barred her eyes, but it wasn't difficult to detect the candor in her cadence.
“And what am I supposed to do with this apology?” Truly, what did she expect your response to be? “Am I expected to just fucking forgive and forget?”
You regarded her with a blank stare, watching as she battled with her knee-jerk reaction to respond with snark and disrespect. Her body stiffened, but only for a second before she released and relaxed her muscles. “No! No. I don't expect that at all. I'm not apologizing because I want absolution, I’m apologizing because it's the right thing to do.”
“And all of a sudden you're concerned with doing the right thing?” Your patience with this conversation was thinning, and you no longer wanted to be an active participant.
“I’m just as surprised as you are.” She laughed nervously, “I don’t expect automatic forgiveness, I know I’ve been a dick. I don’t deserve your forgiveness, you can quite literally spit in my face right now, and tell me to go fuck myself, and I’d accept that, I’d understand. B-But I wanna earn it.”
Riri inched closer, wrapping her hot digits around your perspiring palm. She trapped your eyes in a longing, hopeful stare, lips quivering as they parted, “Make me work for it… please?”
It was a breathless whisper that made her voice crack pathetically. Heavy words, with veiled connotations that you absolutely refused to decrypt.
So you nodded, agreeing to her request without words, allowing the soft rustle of turning pages to fade into the background. Riri’s eyes scoured your blown features curiously before she smugly flicked the corners of her mouth, and you quite literally felt your brain combust inside your skull.
You cleared your throat, “So uh, how’d it go with Zariyah, after you know…” You felt your curiosity was warranted, given Riri’s reaction to all of it last night. Honestly, you still didn't know what your reaction to that should be.
“Next question!” Riri chuckled, scratching the back of her neck.
“She really cares about you, a lot.” You expressed, shocking her.
“And you got that from talking to her for five seconds at a party?”
You prepared to walk away from her, but Riri grabbed your waist unabashedly, with those same scorching fingers, yanking you toward her, preventing you from leaving her presence. “I’m fucking with you, relax.”
“You just can't help yourself, can you?”
And she shrugged, broadcasting a toothy grin. “I really can't.”
You weren't even sure she was aware of how blinding her smile was; how genuine; but knowing you were responsible for its appearance coaxed out a similar grin of your own. “Thanks, for apologizing I mean. That was very big of you, considering you're like three feet tall.” You giggled.
“Oh, so you got jokes, okay.” She laughed along with you.
You crossed your legs, gripping your binder with both hands, watching Riri, witnessing her smile expand the longer you two spoke. You captured pictures of this moment with your mind, noting the way her eyes crinkled at the sides when she laughed, the way she constantly fidgeted with her pendant, and her flexing abs beneath her crop top.
Your shift was a distant priority now, you thought, it wasn't like Benny would actually fire you anyway.
It was nice, seeing her this open, with you of all people, and in public. Maybe you two could be friends after all, in a perfect world.
“Like I said, you're a good person. And I don't like knowing you think I don't notice that. I notice a lot about you.” She reached up, tucking a stray loc behind your ear, and you felt your heart stop entirely. You could tell—from the way she took you in—Riri heard it flatline.
She bit her lip, gaze locked on yours and you gasped audibly in the silent library. This action called on Riri’s signature smirk as she backed away from you, examining your disheveled demeanor. “I gotta go though. Ima see you.”
It was then that you felt the visceral blow, a gut punch that left you reeling, as you watched Riri walk away. Her coy wave felt like a taunt, and as she broke into a slow, confident trot, a knot began to form in your stomach. It tightened with an unbearable intensity, threatening to snap at any moment. Realization was beginning to creep in as Zariyah’s words reverberated in your eardrums.
You felt way more than you should for this girl, who up until now, made your life a living hell. A crushing shame accompanied this epiphany, gnawing relentlessly at your core. And you were left with a terrifying question that you wished could live unanswered: Were you falling for Riri Williams, your boyfriend's best friend? Or, worse yet, had you already plunged headfirst into those feelings, oblivious until this very moment? The gravity of this realization left you feeling exposed and vulnerable, standing on the precipice of an emotional chasm.
Summary: Five years ago, you left Shuri on her knees in her hotel room. On the night of your wedding. The two of you moved forward with your lives both accomplishing great things. Will a celebration thrown for your latest accomplish bring the two of you back together?
A/n: Ok y’all. Snuggle up for this one. It’s long af! But It has something for ALLL THE GIRLY’s. The romance girls, the angst girls, the smut girls, the slow burn girls, the music girls. And “Good bones” is an original poem. So I hope you all snuggle up and rub your feet together and dive in. Enjoy! Happy B-lated Valentines.
Good Bones by Shuri Udaku
Who knew that the death of us could be so endearing?
Laid to rest, the flesh of fearing
Decaying beneath the thumb of time
The stars in your eyes and my heart align
Weakness shriveled, and fell off the shape
Kindred spirits take place in love’s nape
A funeral began, to which we did not attend
But tears fell through the soil, and growing begins
Time stood still and said “not yet”
A reach in the night, yet our hands never met
But I felt you, Sthandwa… I was never alone
No strength in old vessels, but our love has good bones.
Walking along the foggy dock; the long coat of her tuxedo whisked gracefully in the windy night. Her vision was engrossed with the horizon of the navy sky, almost hypnotized by the green light that blinked at the top of the building in the city. The owner of the home that was a direct antipode to her own ran marathons through her mind. Though she couldn’t fully visualize it, she knew it was there. A perfect vertical axis from her home, to the home of her heart. She’d built it that way. Coming up on the end of the dock her stride came to a halt. Her eyes shut, with the green light still invading her sight behind the lids of her eyes. She stretched out her arm,reaching for the light. For the love she’d lost five years ago. She reached for a sign. Even just a light wind to tickle the tips of her fingers. Any sign that maybe, just maybe she was thinking of her too.
“Ikumkani wam” Griot spoke through the Queens Kimoyo earrings. “Wakanda is calling.”
With a light sigh, her hand fell to her side, jaw flenching in frustration. She opened her eyes, staring right back out into the darkness that surrounded the relentless blinking green light. The darkness she deserved after the hurt she’d caused the only woman she’d ever truly loved. She turned on her heels, begining the walk back to what had become her second home. Turning her back on the darkness, and also the flashing hope of the green light.
“Bast. Hear my cry. I have done the work. If you see fit, please send my heart back to me.”
Across the axis the direct antipode to the home the Queen had built, was a JamesEdition penthouse filled with busy bodies, and buzzing conversations as everyone prepared for the big day! The fuss was partially interupted by the ringing of the doorbell. The door opened to reveal Mr. Bruno Mars. The best friend to the lady of the house. Greeted at the door by the butler, and led through the elegant grand hallway to the study. Where he was met by Mr. Michael Addai. His best friends husband. Michael quickly took the phone from his ear ending the call immediately to properly greet Bruno.
“Bruno! What’s up my brother!” He spoke with a loud booming voice, his walk just as boisterous. He stuck out his hand for Bruno to grab.
“How’s it going man?” Bruno replies.
“Everything is everything man. That woman of mine has been talking about seeing you non-stop all week!” Bruno smiles affectionately.
“Well I should get to her then. I’m excited to see her too. I’ve missed her.” Mike smiles, wrapping an arm around Bruno’s neck.
“Inseparable the two of you. It’s quite cute!” He laughed big and loud, as the two of them entered busy living room.
The house was alive with music and bodies. It almost seemed as if it were a dance. Hair stylist, makeup artist, and wardrobe, moved gracefully around the large room. Their only mission being to perfect the beauty that sat in the center of the room.
A luxurious silky white robe tied neatly around your waist, hung from your shoulders so elegantly. You sat leaned slightly forward, legs crossed as the makeup artist applied the last bit of gloss to your plump bottom lip.
“Well I’ll be damned! It seems as though you’ve made it my friend.” A light gasp leaves your lips. Your head turns and your eyes glimmer as they connect with your longtime bestfriend.
“Is that you my love!?” You stood, rushing over to him with your delicately heeled feet. Arms raised prepared to be wrapped around your favorite person. You close your eyes as the two of you connect finding comfort in the warm embrace.
“Did you miss me?” You say pulling away staring into his smiling eyes. “Everyday! Everyday I sat by my window in Rome and gazed into the nights sky missing my only friend!” He says, full of drama like only he could. You giggle pushing his shoulder, turning to take your seat back in the center of the room so that your hair could be finished.
“You’re lying. But I’m still flattered.” Bruno laughed along with you.
“Not about the important part.” The two of you share another glance with mutual adoration.
“Bruno!” Your sister Danielle yelled as she trotted down the stairs to embrace him. “It’s been a while! I see your work in my travels often! Beautiful! Incredible!”
“Thank you Dani. I’m very flattered.” He says with a blush.
“Yes! They are which reminds me I’m hoping to commission an original piece from you.” You chime in somewhere beneath all of the commotion.
“I’d be honored. Especially, from a soon to be Grammy winner. Ten nominations is unfathomable!” You giggle and do a little jig.
“It still feels like a fever dream. I’m taking it moment by moment.” Someone began to fan you. Keeping you from overheating in all the commotion.
“So Bruno, are you back in New York for good?” Michael asks, walking over to the mini bar to pour two glasses of scotch.
“For awhile atleast, I’ll be settling. Just bought a new place over in New Rochelle. It’s nice though humble compared to the estate next door.”
“New Rochelle? Interesting. There’s an after party out there tonight. It’s being given by someone who calls themselves Sweet Lady. Have you heard of her? Anyway, I was planning for us to go there after sissy came home with the win!” Dani exclaimed, sitting elegantly on the couch in her flowing sundress.
“Can’t say that I’ve heard of her, but I’m down to go.” Bruno replied, as Michael hands him his scotch and he nods in appreciation.
Your heart dropped to your stomach. “Sweet lady?” You say. “Sweet lady.” You say again in a whisper to yourself. Confusion crept up on your brow as the image of her sculpted face creeped into your mind. Within a blink she was again gone.
“Y/n are you ok?” Bruno asks, bringing you out of your thoughts.
“Hm? Oh yes. I’m fine. Today is just overwhelming in this best possible way! Let’s just get through the show first and we can discuss the parties later. They’ll be plenty!”
You say, joy prevalent in your voice. But, in the back of your mind that name continued to echo.
Sweet Lady.
Slouched in her seat, leaning slightly to the left with her elbow resting on the arm of the chair, her thumb rested underneath her chin, and her pointer finger sat thoughtfully over her lips. Shuri sat sectioned off, secluded from the masses in an area of the building that was drapped in golden curtains and flooded with security.
Nakia and Okoye sat beside her watching the stage with expectancy. Shuri’s fingers tapped along the table before she nervously reached forward, grabbing her drink, and taking a stressed sip. She was fixated, focused in on the screen as Victoria Monet sashayed onto the stage to present the last award you had been nominated for. Album of the year. Her heart pounded against her chest, and her palms were sweaty as photos of you and the other nominees flipped onto the screen. So far, you’d cleared eight of the ten Grammy’s you were nominated for and Shuri’s heart swelled with pride.
Victoria opened the envelope, and Shuri sat forward. Her elbows sat steady on the table holding up prayer hands. Underneath the table, her knee bounced uncontrollably. It seemed the world was moving in slow motion as Victoria’s eyes lit up looking up from the envelope.
“Oh My God!! Everybody stand to your feet right now! Give it up for my girl as she comes up to except her 9th Grammy of the night!! Making history and surpassing Michael Jackson’s record of eight in one night. Mrs. Y/n Y/l/n-Addai!!!!”
The other nominees photo’s disappear, and Shuri’s hands flew to her mouth as she jumped to her feet. Pumping her fist in the air. “Holy Shit! She’s done it! She did it! That’s my girl!”
Her eyes welled, as she looked to Nakia who stood to the left of her, grinning, clapping, and hooting like a proud big sister. “Yeeeesss!!” Okoye stood stoic a hint of a smile on her face and proud eyes.
The camera landed on you, standing stuck at your seat, tears streaming down your beautifully made up face. Your hands covered your mouth, identical to Shuri’s. Your mom scooped you up inside her arms holding you, rocking side to side whispering her pride in your ear.
Your sister jumped up and down, her own tears falling before she joined in with you and your mother. Your husband waited patiently, smiling down at you taking your hand and the two of you share a loving kiss. The crowd was roaring, giving you a well deserved standing ovation.
Suddenly, a longing took over Shuri’s body. The lump in her throat getting larger, and the direction of her tears changing. Shuri’s eyes zero’d in on his hand, resting delicately on your waist as you gracefully saunter up the steps to the stage to receive your award. That should’ve been her. Guiding her beautiful wife up the stairs, waiting at the bottom as you had your moment. That should’ve been her last name hyphenated behind your own. Instead, she sat hidden away. Wanting to support, and be there for you without ruining your evening with her past transgressions.
Your dress was simple and elegant. A silky black material, with a slit that traveled all the way up to your small waist and flared out beautifully. It trailed behind you as you gave Victoria a long tearful hug before stepping up to the mic and trying to speak. Your husband stepped up beside you pressing you into him. Your mouth opened, but nothing came out and you closed your eyes opting for a wet exhale as the audience cheered you on. Shuri’s eyebrows furrowed. Why was he still there?
You try again successfully “Whew, this is…..WOW!” You broke into tears again. As you spoke HE remained attached to your hip. Pressing your body into his side while you tried to deliver your speech. Shuri cocked her head to the side in annoyance. Until the sound of your voice took over the room again.
“You’ve all had to hear a lot from me tonight, so I’ll do my best to make this short.” A few chuckles float through the crowd. “If you look around you’ll see all of my family here. My mom, my sister, my bestie even flew in from his travels to be here tonight. Heeey Bruno!” You smile and wave and he smiled pumping his fist. “And my wonderful husband who’s always standing beside me. I love you baby.” He gave you a peck on the cheek before finally stepping back. In an instant, a flash of sadness took over your face and you took a contemplative breath before speaking again.
“A long time ago, I had a pretty amazing friend. Under difficult circumstances that friend grew to mean the world to me. Even in the middle of loss that would’ve sent most of us into a spiral of insanity, she didn’t break. She mourned, she tried, she failed, and she learned. She never gave herself the option to quit. Now today she stands as one of the worlds most powerful, innovative, world leaders of any time. Who has not only shown an undying love for her own people, but has spread that love over into our African American culture! And let us not forget she is a BLACK…WOMAN!”
The entire crowd stood to their feet with a loud applause. You smile while wiping away a single tear, waiting for the crowd to calm down. “During my first album she’d fly in with her busy schedule, just to be in studio sessions with me and the crew until sunrise. Making sure all of our broke ass’s ate and atleast got some sleep.” You laughed lightly as the crowd followed. “Outside of all of my musical inspirations that I’ve listed tonight, I would be remiss to not mention my greatest inspiration. The person who inspires my resilience, my tenacity, my work ethic. The person who showed me that it wasn’t enough just to be pretty and talented. But, that I had to be smart and unafraid to be a bitch that was about my business.” A few shouts of agreement sounded throughout the crow.
“So tonight I hope that she’s watching. I hope she’s proud, and I want her to know that if it hadn’t been for her, I would not be standing here today. Thank you for loving me the best you knew how. But, most of all thank you for believing in me. This last one is for you Queen Shuri Udaku.” You held your award in the air before crossing your arms over your chest in a Wakandan salute. “Thank y’all.” The crowd roared.
Nakia and Okoye stood on either side of Shuri tears in their eyes, arms crossed over their chest. Shuri sat in shocked. Her right hand sat over her heart and her eyes were closed, as she listened to the sound of the roaring crowd. The day she lost you. She’d prayed. Prayed to Bast that she would make you and her family proud. That somehow she could rise out of the deep dark hole she’d dug herself into, clean and in good graces. Now, here you were taking your historic moment to acknowledge not only how she had impacted you, but her impact on the world. She let out a shakey breath standing to her feet. She crossed her arms over her chest. And she, Nakia, and Okoye placed there arms down to their sides simultaneously.
You turned to walk off of the stage and landed right into your husbands arms. He pressed your body up against his, trapping your lips against his in a sloppy kiss. When he pulled back. He yelled “Love this girl!” into the microphone. The crowd went crazy, clapping, laughing, and hooting. Shuri officially couldn’t do it anymore. Her hands shook. She was overwhelmed with the storm of emotions evading her senses and she needed to get away.
“Shuri. Do you want to go, Usisi?” Nakia spoke up, noticing the distress in her little sisters eyes. Shuri took another sip of her drink. She nodded, wordlessly placing her drink back onto the table. Everyone at the table grabbed their belongings as Shuri stood to her feet. The Dora surrounded her, and Nakia and Okoye stood in front.
Bruno looked up from his seat out into the sea of people, just in time to catch a glimpse of what looked like the Dora Milaje exiting the building.
“What the fuck was that?” Your husband came up behind you whispering as you exited the stage. He gripped your hips rougher than necessary pulling you against him. “It was a speech Michael.” He nuzzled into your neck, breath tickling your ear. Your skin crawled.
“She can’t save you. You know that right? You belong to me.”
“Why on earth would you acknowledge her in your moment! That was YOUR moment y/n!”
“My moment to say whatever I wanted to say Dani.” You say, uninterested in your sisters opinion. You sat at the bar in your home sharing a celebratory drink with your mother and sister.
“And it was a beautiful speech baby girl. I’m sure Shuri was very touched.” Your mother says before glaring at your sister. “Dani we all know how you feel about Shuri. Let’s not ruin a good night with it.” Dani rolled her eyes.
“I’m just saying. She may be doing great things now but she still hurt my sister, so she’ll forever be the opp to me.”
“The opp? Girl…Ok street nigga.” You say rolling your eyes back at her.
“Well, it’s obvious the woman has grown and it’s ok for your sister to acknowledge that. Because she’s grown as well. Shuri didn’t go about loving your sister in the best way. But the love she had for her was undeniable. She just had some healing to do.” Dani smacks her teeth.
“Fuck her.” Your mother furrows her brow.
“Danielle” Dani quickly straightened up.
“Sorry Mommy.”
“Mhm. That’ll be my cue. I’m headed in for the night. I’m gonna go back to my hotel.” Your mom got up from her bar stool begining to grab her things.
“Mommy we have plenty of room. I don’t know why you felt the need to get a hotel!”
“No no! You all need your space tonight. I figured you’d all be partying all night. And I may want to find me some company.” She winks at you and your sister.
“Oh nah. We’re not there yet mama.” Danielle says.
“Absolutely not. But do your thing girl!” You say, and you all laugh.
“Goodnight beautiful girls. Be safe tonight.” You mom threw over her shoulder as she walked out of your home.
“We should be heading out now too!” You give your sister an apologetic look before speaking.
“Rain check?”
“Y/n! I don’t want to hear that shit! Please tell me you’re not bailing on your big night! You won nine Grammy’s tonight! Let’s go have some fun! Everyone is waiting and want to celebrate you! This party is supposed to be one for the books.” Your sister stares at you incredulously.
“Well you go ahead! Everything was just alot tonight. I’m a bit overstimulated and tired. You know how I get. We can celebrate tomorrow I promise.”
“Y/n-“ she began to protest.
“Really I’m ok. Me and Michael will celebrate in our own way.” She turns up her nose. “You’ll be back to see mommy tomorrow anyway. Go have fun! This is all of our night to celebrate! Take a driver!” Your sister hesitated, but eventually gave in.
“Ok. Tomorrow y/n.” She points with a stern glare.
“Tomorrow.” Your sister looked at you with a bit of worry in her eyes.
“You still thinking about her?” She asks.
“Who?”
“Don’t play dumb with me.”
“She did played a huge roll in all this Dani. Part of me wishes she could’ve experienced this with me.” Your sister shook her head in disapproval.
“Well she can’t, because she fucked up that chance. She’s doing great ruling her country well. And you’re doing damn good without her. She wasn’t concerned with how you felt when she was cheating and how she feels now is none of your concern. Keep your eyes forward baby sister.” You cast your eyes downward. She lifts your chin.
“I’m so proud of you, and I love you.” She says giving you a hug.
“I love you too.“ You smile, and walk her out of your home. You shut the door leaning against it, you close your eyes and let out a small exhale. That’s when a full bottle of alcohol flew by your head. The sound of glass crashing on the door beside your head shocked your system, as a frightened squeal left your mouth. You gripped your dress preparing for impact. Michael grabbed you by the biceps pushing you into the wet spot and tiny glass shards left on the wall.
“Michael! Please!” You tried breaking free to no avail.
He wrapped his hand around your throat hard. Cutting off your circulation.
“How dare you acknowledge that bitch on our night?”
“I’m sorry.” You rasped, hanging there helplessly. The color leaving your face.
“Don’t let all of these little accolades get to your head. You’re still a little piece of trash that lucked out and got me after the queen hung you out to dry. Remember that shit the next time you decide to publicly embarrass me.” He threw you to the ground into the pile of broken glass on the floor.
“Argh!” You yell out gasping for air, as glass peirced your arms.
“Worthless.” He mumbles as he walked away.
You lie there in the glass, and once he was far enough away you inhaled deeply before, sobbing. Wondering how you had ended up here.
Rolls Royce, Bentleys, and Maybachs OH MY! The finest cars lined up outside of Sweet Lady’s home as they tried getting into the Estate. The open invitation Grammy’s party was indeed Bruno’s next door neighbors. He watched the house from the road as it lit up the sky. The music pumped loudly, and rowdy conversations could be heard for miles. Bruno maneuvered around the cars parked in front of his driveway trying to make his way up to his front door. A black envelope, lined with gold waited for him. Taped over the peephole. He looked around before carefully walking up on his porch, taking down the envelope and opening it.
“I have an invitation!” Bruno yelled, with the card held high above the crowd. He found himself shoulder to shoulder with a sea of people trying to enter the gates of the grand estate.
He continuously try’d showing his invitation to the random men in black suits that stood guard. But it seemed as though it didn’t matter, being that he was the only one who had one. Placing the invite in the front pocket of his suit jacket, he walked further into the party. His eyes filled with wonder as he’d never seen anything quite like this before. The home was exquisite. Lit up like an amusement park. It almost looked like a modern museum. There was a live band playing in the center of the fountain. Dancers and servers everywhere with whatever food you could think of. Some for the bougie. Some for the hungry. And the drinks were endless!
This home was what dreams were made of. Who is this Sweet Lady?
“Bruno!” A feminine voice called from behind him. He turned to see Dani waving above the crowd. “Hey! I see you decided to come! This place is insane!” She said.
“Yea I did. I found an invite on my door. Did you get one?”
“No one got an invite.” Dani shrugged.
They moved through the party sipping cocktails and continuing their conversation.
“Do you know her?”
“Only what I’ve heard of her. But no one has ever seen her.”
“Wow. I wonder who she is? She has to be a huge deal to live this way!”
“I’ve heard she’s some invisible industry big wig. That she controls the industry. You know Illuminati type shit.” Dani said. Another individual over heard the conversation as they began to ascend the stairs, and decided to add their bit of gossip.
“I heard she was a spy.” They say, causing a domino effect.
“I heard she was a bootlegger, on the run.”
“I heard she was a politician.”
“Who ever she is I’d like to know her.”
Everyone looked at eachother able to agree on that statement.
“Excuse me? Peter? Peter Gene Hernandez?” A man in black interupted the gossip circle. Bruno was taken aback. That was him. His full government name.
“Um y-yes. That’s me.” He says, confusion apparent.
“Madame would like to speak with you. If you would follow me.” Everyone gaped at the scene dying to know what Sweet lady wanted with Bruno. Bruno looked at Dani his heart pounding a bit in his chest. She gave him a nod to follow the man and he slowly complied.
He was led through the large doors into a grand foyer, and up a staircase that could’ve easily been mistaken for something inside of the Metropolitan. Everything about this home was tastefully over the top. Whoever this mystery woman was, two things could be said for her. One: She was Classy, And Two: She was LOADED. After being led through a long hallway. He was taken through yet another set of double doors that entered a much cozier area of the house. With beautiful furniture. Still plenty of room to entertain and a grand piano. A figure in a black and gold suit stood watching the party from a bay window.
She was slender. Yet powerful in stature. Her hair was cut low. And her jaw, sharp. In some cases she could be mistaken for male. But for Bruno. There was no mistaking that posture. Before him stood…..
Shuri Udaku. Queen of Wakanda.
“Bruno my friend. How have you been?”
“Shuri?” She turned from the window. Finally facing Bruno.
“In the flesh” She says raising her martini glass. Fireworks went off outside of the large windows as if this moment had been coordinated.
“So I wasn’t tripping when I saw Dora leaving the award show?”
“No you weren’t tripping.” She giggled. “I guess we could have been a bit more discreet in our exit.” They both stood awkwardly. Shuri took a sip of her drink and ran a hand over head.
“So they said you wanted to see me?”
“Of course. Yes. Yes. I did ask for you. Um. I wanted to know if.. if she came?”
“Y/n you mean?” Shuri shifted on her feet.
“Yes. Y/n.” It was all starting to click for Bruno.
“No. She said she was tired.” Shuri’s face visibly saddened, and she turned back towards the window. Placing a hand into her pocket as she held on to her glass with the other.
“She used to love parties…This was all for her.” Her head lowered. “I guess this was my way of celebrating her without having to disrupt her day.” Bruno looked at his surroundings.
“This house for her too?” Shuri just stared into Bruno thinking of a way to answer.
“In a way. Y/n always had big dreams. When we were together she always said she wanted something like this. Something huge outside of the Citadel where she could entertain, and have garden parties and things. Just some where for us to come and relax that had endless possibilities. So, I built her dream home. An antipode of sorts. I’m aware I’ll never have her again. But I come here when I want to feel close to her.” Shuri turned away from the window and walked over to the seating area placing her glass down and taking a seat. Bruno looked on, exceedingly impressed with the love Shuri had for you. “I know it’s silly. I just hoped that tonight she could atleast see it.”
Bruno thought back to tonight at the show. The blantant show of insecurity your husband put on. The cautiousness you held around him. How he wouldn’t let you have your moment completely. The inappropriate glances with other women that he thought no one noticed. Bruno had come to the conclusion that he didn’t really like Mike pretty early on in the evening.
“How’d you know I lived next door?” Shuri smirked. “Oh Bruno. You know better. I’m still extremely aware of my surroundings.”
Bruno chuckled, joining Shuri on the plush sofa. “If it’s any consolation, this place is amazing. And this is one hell of a party. She would’ve loved it.” Shuri leaned back before running a hand over her face.
“Nah. This was stupid. I don’t know what I was expecting.”
“It’s really a beautiful gesture. Maybe you could talk to Danielle she’s here. She could put a bug in her ear.” Shuri shook her head. “Absolutely not! She’s more angry at me than Y/n. It’d be like arguing with a rock.” Bruno’s eyebrows rose in agreement.
“That’s true.” He leaned back as well. That’s when an idea hit him. “Hey! How about I invite her over for dinner tomorrow. Tell her to come alone. And you could join us.” Shuri sat up straight, her head turned towards him. She rubbed her sweaty palms against her pants before standing and pacing.
“Y-you think she’ll come. That would be great! Dinner? That gives us plenty of time for us to get your grass cut. No offense. Griot. Contact the gardeners!” She began rambling.
“Whoa whoa. Calm down. Yes she’ll come. I’ve been gone awhile she’ll want to catch up.” The excitement in Shuri’s eyes was almost childlike.
“Ok. Ok. Great! That’s great!”
“So tomorrow?” Bruno stood, outstretching his hand for Shuri. She stepped forward taking his hand in hers and shaking.
“Tomorrow.”
Bruno walked back out into the party. Dani stood at the entrance of the mansion waiting wide eyed as she sees Bruno approaching. She quickly meets him half way.
“Wellllllll.” She said excited for answers.
“I can’t give you anything. But just know… This all makes sense.”
The next morning Bruno woke up to the sound of power tools outside of his home. He quickly jumped up grabbing his robe rushing to his front door. He swung it open to see a crew of gardeners in his yard. Cutting grass, planting flowers. And… building a fountain? Shuri stood in the center of the yard overseeing the work being done. Bruno just shook his head and walked back into the house to prepare his home for when you arrived.
Closer to time for dinner to start, rain started to pour from the sky. Bruno glanced out of the window of his kitchen as he put together some appetizers for the evening. An army of umbrellas marched up his driveway. Shuri leading the pack dressed to the nines. Bruno opened the door for the barrage of people, Shuri stepped aside allowing them to enter Bruno’s home. The first two people carried a large 3 teir wedding style cake. The others carried tables, food, chairs and more flowers. “They say the rain will clear by evening.” Her eyes shifted around the yard looking over the work done. Her eyes never settling on one thing.
“Yes it should.” Bruno says.
“Is everything alright?” Shuri asks, finally looking his way.
“Ah. The grass looks fine if that’s what you mean.” Shuri looks around and then back at Bruno.
“Grass? What grass?” And brushed past him walking into the house.
Time ticked by as they sat quietly watching the clock in Bruno’s living room. Shuri sat fiddling with her hands on the couch facing the clock. Her foot taping rapidly. Bruno leaned against the entry way to his living room watching Shuri’s internal panic. One minute after five Shuri hopped to her feet.
“I can’t wait all day. She’s not coming. I’m going home.”
“Shuri she’s only a minute late.” She rushed past him. “I’ll just go. She wouldn’t want to see me. Besides no one’s coming to dinner it’s too-” She was cut off by the honking of a horn as a car pulled up. “It’s her.” Bruno said grabbing an umbrella and rushing out of the door. Shuri froze in the hall eyes wide with regret before rushing back to the living room where she tried to find the best way to present herself to you. She eventually opted for an awkward pose by the sliding doors waiting for you to enter.
Bruno rushed outside with an umbrella waiting for your driver to let you out of the car. The driver came around laying out a carpet for you, so that you wouldn’t step into the mud. Bruno held out the umbrella as you stepped out.
“This is a beautiful place you have Bruno. Why did I have to come alone? Are you gonna confess your love for me?” He laughs.
“Oh that’s a secret! Tell your driver to go far away!” The two of you laugh. “I’ll call you back James! His name is James.” You say as you both enter the house. Bruno allows you to walk ahead of him. You stop to check your reflection in the hall mirror before heading to the living room. You were stopped in your tracks at the doorway of the living room, your mouth dropping.
“Oh my God! Did you ransack a greenhouse?” You ask walking through touching all of the beautiful flowers. “He is in love with me.” You whisper to yourself. Bruno walks in behind you looking around in confusion. Shuri was nowhere in sight. That’s when he noticed the sliding door had been left slightly ajar. He let out a sigh, and you take off your jacket. Bruno took it from you to hang in the hallway.
“That’s funny.” He chuckles.
“Wha-“
And there was a knock at the door.
“Give me one second.” He says as He ran to the door. There Shuri stood, now soaking wet.
“What are you doing?” He whisper yelled.
“I can’t do this! This is crazy!”
“Come on Shuri she’s here now! This is what you wanted.” She shook her head turning away.
“I’m leaving.”
“Stop it! You’re acting like a child.” Bruno chastised. Shuri stopped in her tracks. Turning back towards Bruno. She stepped forward, smoothing down her jacket. She charged forward into the house.
“Is everything ok?” You say, hearing footsteps enter the living room as you stood gazing out of the glass sliding doors. You turned only to be met with the shock of your life. There she stood, in burgundy slacks and a matching jacket with golden flower embellishments, with the shoes that matched to the T. Though she was drenched, she wasn’t any less of the African Goddess you remembered. An ethereal beauty.
“Shuri?”
“Sthandwa.” Shuri breathed, She felt like her heart would explode as she ogled at your beauty up close for the first time in years. It’d been five years since you’d left her on her knees in her hotel. The years spent alone had not been wasted. She’d matured immensely. Though she was the youngest to have ever ruled Wakanda, it was a well known fact that she was indeed the best. She’d dedicated her life to the well being of her people. And it’d kept her sane. But everyday she awoke feeling like a continuous failure. All because she’d lost you.
Now here you were.
You wore a simple white dress that fell off of your shoulders. The sleeves were long but sheer. The skirt short but flowing. The sunlight beaming through the glass doors, hit you just right. Casting a glow around your silhouette. One could mistake you for an Angel. You were the first to break the awkward silence.
“I’m certainly glad to see you again.” Shuri let out a puff of air as though she had been holding her breath.
“H-hi. I’m certainly glad to see you too.”
Your eyes slightly water as a smile crept up on your face. In that moment Shuri felt blessed. She’d never thought that she would see your smile directed at her again. Your eyes light up with the sight of her. A sense of relief passed her over as the two of you gazed at the other from across the room. The sound of a tea kettle whistling from the kitchen sounded throughout the house. But the two of you never broke eye contact.
“Um. That’s the tea. We should head to the dining room before the food gets cold.” Bruno cut into the tension.
“Y-yea that sounds good.” Shuri agreed.
The two of you migrated into the dining room, as Bruno excused himself to the kitchen to grab the tea. Shuri pulled out your chair and you took your seat, as she sat adjacent to you. The silence remained awkward as you both tried catching glances at the other without each other noticing.
Bruno came and sat the tea in front of the both of you. “The servers will be out with the food in a few. But, I forgot. I have this thing in town.” Shuri’s head snapped up towards Bruno the fear in her eyes apparent. “I know forgetful. But you guys enjoy yourselves I’ll be back as soon as possible.” He said rushing out of the house. Shuri got up quickly following him. “Be right back” she said to you before running behind him.
“What are you doing?” She asked incredulously.
“Im leaving the two of you alone. And you’re not going to get anywhere with her talking to me. Go back!”
“This is bad. This is a bad idea. It’s embarrassing!” Shuri said pacing and panicking. Bruno grabbed her shoulders.
“Hey! It’s ok. Y/n‘s inside waiting for you. Go get her.” Shuri swallowed. Giving Bruno a greatful nod. With that she went back inside.
“I’m sorry about that.” Shuri said as she sat next to you. You eye her as she sat.
“It’s fine. I’m guessing you’re nervous.”
“Yes. Yes you could say that.” You laugh softly.
“I have to say I am too. This was very unexpected.”
“I realize that. I’m sorry if this makes you uncomfortable. I just.. uh.. I really wanted to see you. Congratulate you in person. I’ve never sat next to a nine time Grammy winner before.” The both of you laugh as the atmosphere started to feel a little less heavy.
“Actually. Im really happy to see you Shuri.” Shuri sat forward a bit looking at you intently.
“I must tell you that your speech meant the world to me.” Your eyes widened.
“You watched?” Shuri broke eye contact. “Uh” Your face scrunches in confusion.
“You were there?” She looked back into your eyes.
“I couldn’t have imagined missing it. I am so very proud of you. You’ve become one hell of a force, and you would’ve become that with or without me.” Your eyes glistened with tears.
“Thank you.” You whispered reaching for her hand that she slowly placed in yours. The smallest connection sent waves of electricity through the both of you. Today it would go ignored.
“There’s so much I want to share with you Shuri. We have so much to catch up on. I’ve missed you.” A tear fell from Shuri’s eye and she quickly wiped it away. “Yes we do. I’ve missed you too.” The servers began to bring out the food, it was easy to see that it was hand selected by Shuri. Everything she remembered being your favorite was on the menu. The two of you talked and laughed. It was refreshing, the way it had been in the beginning.
When Bruno returned the two of you had made your way back into the living room with the drinks of your choice. Shuri’s arm was behind you on the couch, her body turned towards you as she listened intently to the words coming out of your mouth. He couldn’t help but smile. The sight was almost nostalgic.
He cleared his throat, and was ignored. He rattled his keys and still wasn’t acknowledged. So he decided to just announce himself.
“Heeey! I guess dinner went well?” You stood to your feet smiling. “Dinner was delicious.”
You turned your attention to the sliding glass doors and stepped out onto the porch. Staring out at the water. Shuri followed behind you.
“This is beautiful.. just open breathable air. You can even see the top of the buildings in the city.”
“It is quite beautiful. You have an even better view from my place.” You look at her in confusion.
“Where is your place?”
Shuri points to the home straight across.
“So you are Sweet Lady.”
She chuckled. “I’d hoped you’d come to the party. But honestly, this was much more rewarding.”
“Well I’d love to have a tour.” Shuri’s heart soared.
“Of course. Bruno! I’d like for you and y/n to come to my house so I can show her around.”
“Ooooh my-“ You say stepping inside the gates of Shuri’s home, stunned, thunderstruck. You couldn’t believe your eyes. A knot formed in your throat. “Shuri is.. is this-“ Shuri stepped up beside you. Taking in your reaction with an affectionate smile she replied.
“Yes. It is.”
“Our house.” You say, a lone tear fell from your eyes, as you look up at her.
“Our house, Thando.”
“I-“ was all you could say. Words escaped you.
“There’s so much to see. Ubusi. She directs you forward holding out her hand, gesturing for you to go ahead of her. Shuri and Bruno grabbed your hands leading you up the steps as you admire the architecture. The doors open to the entrance and your breath was taken as you stepped inside.
Years ago, at the begining of your relationship you and Shuri designed this home as a game. A fun look into what could’ve been your future. After the two of you had finished you’d fawned over how the two of you meshed so well, and how this would be your dream home. With everything that happened the memory faded into the background. But Ofcourse Shuri’s masterful brain, brought it to life and made it into something you could have never dreamed of.
Beautiful unique chandeliers, marble floors. The entrance with the most gorgeous tree growing in the center of the room. Shuri walked ahead of you leading you throughout the house. Introducing you to staff. Showing you every intricate and well thought out detail of the estate.
The gardens were your favorite. There were many. An area to have garden parties. A meditation garden, a butterfly garden. Hell there was even a helicopter landing pad! Back inside, you swooned at the beautiful high ceilings of the living room, and the cat walk that surrounded it.
This was all so overwhelming. You felt like you were inside of a fairytale. You watched Shuri as she strolled leisurely through her home proudly. Her calm regality just fit so perfectly well within the home and you found your heart fluttering at not only the beauty of the home. But hers as well.
The next area was the bedroom. Covered in marble. Cream, Olive greens, and gold. It was huge. Big as some peoples homes. It had its own living room and a bar area. A mirror sat above the bed that had another one of those gorgeous Chandeliers. The hers and hers closets were gold and grey, behind glass enclosures. Shuri’s closet being perfectly organized and the one meant for you empty.
“Shuri?” She stopped in her tracks, hearing the tremble of your voice. She turned walking over to you. Bruno excused himself from the room leaving the two of you to talk.
“You don’t like it.” She looked worried. “I’m sorry if-“
“Shuri. I love it. How could I not! I’m just wondering. Why? Why all of this? We’ve been done for years. Why did you build our house?” Shuri was silent for a moment before reaching a hand for you to grab. “Come” You take ahold of her hand and allow her to guide you back into the room and onto the large furnished balcony. She stood behind you and pointed out over the water.
“Do you see that? That faint green light flashing on top of the building in the city. Directly across from us.” You look out, humming as it comes into your line of sight.
“Yes, I see it.” You reply softly
“Remember the first time I messed up? You made it so difficult. One night I’d set up a picnic for you. Laid out blankets. Hung fairy lights. Had all of your favorites. You still weren’t feeling it.” She chuckled slightly, and you join her.
“I remember that night well.”
“I told you that you could walk away if you so choosed. But that I’d always be waiting for you. That light is at the top of the building that you live in.” You gasp turning to look at her. “I excepted our fate and gave you your space. But I built this in honor of what we had, before it went bad. In memory of my greatest loss. And when I get overwhelmed and wish to be near you. This is where I come.” You gazed into her watery eyes with bated breath. A shakey breath left your lips before you spoke.
“Are you even real?” A small smile crept onto her face before she once again took your hand. “There is one last thing I’d like to show you.”
“What else could there possibly be Shuri.”
“You’ll see.”
Shuri led you to another set of grand double doors that she opened for you. And led you down a spiral stair case. As the room came into view, a fresh set of tears fell down your face.
“A ball room.”
“Because can you really be a queen without a ballroom.” You both say recalling the moment you’d told her you’d wanted one.
“It’s official. I’m dreaming.”
“You most certainly are not.” Shuri stood behind you. Gazing at the joy radiating from you.
“Shuri this is… I don’t have words.”
You turn to her with tear stained cheeks and a glint in your eyes. You gave a mischievous smile, “Is there music?”
Shuri smiled. “Hm.” She placed a finger at her temple in faux contemplation. “Jovan!” A young gentleman entered the room onto the balcony where there sat a piano.
“My Queen.”
“Would you play something for my friend Y/n here?” She looked up, and he gave her a nod before sitting at the piano.
The sound of light haunting piano resounded throughout the room, and Shuri looked toward you asking “May I have this dance.” Your face lights up excepting her offer, and taking her hands for her to lead you to the center of the room. It started off with Shuri’s left hand sitting lightly on your waist as her right intertwined with your left.
“ I've been waiting for something
Something I can't ignore
Maybe someone I've been waiting for
To bring me back to life one more time”
It felt personal. And when you looked up and into Shuri’s eyes you knew…These were her words.
“I've been praying for another chance
To make me feel again
I've been sitting, reminisicing of a better day
Trying to reawake”
You found your self stepping closer into her. Your arm that had previously been on her shoulder sliding down and around her waist.
“Coast to coast
I'm doing the most for a second chance
Just to feel again
Baby I try and try a thousand times
And I know why”
Your hand left hers and it joins your other at the small of her back. Your head lay comfortably on her chest as she wrapped you up in her arms as though you were the most precious jewel. Your body almost went into shock at the unfamiliar feeling of safety in her arms. Your lip started to tremble as you feel the vibrations in Shuri’s chest as she began to sing the words.
“When you left me,Oh you left behind every moment” Her hand lightly rubbed up and down your spine, as she rocked you side to side. “Back when you said we, Would grow old on a porch in the golden sun.” Your fist clenched the fabric of Shuri’s jacket, your body shaking with sobs.
“It's not over
Said it's not over
As I shattered every memory across the floor” She ran her fingers through your locs before placing them behind your ear.
“When you leeeeeeeft” You let out a whimper from the words and pressed your body against hers tighter. That’s when it hit you. The pain in your side a reminder of what you had to go back home too. You flenched and Shuri pulled back.
“Are you ok?” You shook your head.
“No.” Shuri’s faced morph into one of confusion as she searched your eyes.
“W-what happened?” She softly gripped your arm and you flenched once again.
“Y/n-“
“ It’s nothing Shuri. I can’t. I-i can’t. I have to get home. Im sorry. This is too much. It’s just too much.” You took off back up the stairs to find the exit as Shuri called after you.
A choked gasp left your lips, as you lay in the center of your bed. Dress pulled up around your waist and hand inside of your panties. You rubbed quick circles into your clit as she ran marathons through your mind.Your eyes were shut tight and you bit harshly into your bottom lip as the sound of her voice, the light touches of her hand, and the security of her arms sat vividly at the forefront of your brain. Turning your head into your pillow, you bite into it to stifle your moan as you come up on your release.
“Shuuriiiii…Ahh.” Her name tastes so sweet on the tip of your tongue. Your body trembles in the aftermath, and you let out a deep breath. Coming down from your high.
“This is ridiculous.” You whisper. It’d been a week and you couldn’t shake her. She’d come back into your life and implanted herself inside of your brain. In the most inconvient of moments your mind would drift to her. Causing a goofy grin to spread across your face. You wanted to be near her. It was like her heart called out to you.
You glanced at the phone on your night stand.
“This is only going to cause trouble y/n. Don’t do it.” You spoke aloud to yourself. Unfortunately, it seemed as though you had no self-control when it came to the queen.
“Fuck it.”
You snatched your phone up and found the number you were looking for.
“Hey, Hey!” He answered after the second ring.
“Heeeeyyy best friend in the world! How are you!?” Bruno let out a long sigh.
“Aw hell. What do you want?”
“Is that the way we’re greeting each other now?”
“Y/n/n”
“Okay, okay. Did um. Do you have Shuri’s contact info by chance?” Your voice comes out light, almost shy making Bruno chuckle.
“She left Kimoyo beads here for you.” You sit up quickly, a smile ghosting over your lips “I’m on my way.” Hopping off of the bed you run to freshen up, oiling your body, and throwing on a form fitting floral sundress. You call downstairs to have vallet bring around your car and head out of your room.
“Where are you headed, Uto m (my sweetness)
“Oh Papa! You scared me. Um I was heading to Bruno’s. Dani’s meeting us and where going to do lunch.”
“Hm.” He looks you up and down “You look good. You have been filled with joy lately my dear. Is it the return of your friend?” He says before wrapping his arms around your waist and kissing your neck.
“I am happy my friend is back. Yes.” You cringe inside but you fake a giggle. Anything to get out of your suffocating house.
“Hm. You smell like a harlot. All of this for Bruno?
“Stop babe. Don’t be silly. You bought me this perfume, and you know that Bruno is like a brother to me. You’re gonna make me late. I already called the car up.” He took your ass into his hands squeezing before letting go. “You can go. But remember who you belong to.” You muster a smile. “I only belong to you Papa” You head out of the door with the intention of clearing your pallet by falling back into the arms of Shuri.
Your car barely rolled to a stop before you hopped out. Jogging up to Bruno’s front door begining to knock.
“I heard you were looking for me.”
Your hand fell to your side and you turn to see Shuri leaning against your car. Eyes stalking your body lingering on your frame. She was casual today in black joggers, a plain white T, and a white Jacket with African patterned fabrics sewn into the sleeves and pockets.
“I figured I’d save you the call.” You heard Bruno’s voice come from behind the door inside of the house. If he was infront of you right now you’d kiss him.
You squirmed underneath her heated gaze. Her stare penetrating you through the form fitting dress.
“Well it seems you wanted to be found.” You say seductively, giving her a stare of your own. One of Shuri’s brows rose her curiosity officially peaked.
“I’ve been waiting for you”
“So you knew I’d be back?” Shuri picked up on the change in your interaction with her.
“I can’t say that I did. But, I’d hoped that you would.”
“Well here I am.” The sultry tone of your voice caused Shuri’s head to tilt back eyes peering at you through hooded lids. Any other time the sex oozing from your pores would have knocked Shuri to her knees. As of now, there were more pressing matters.
“You look beautiful.” The words came out low and slow, her voice a lower pitch. “Turn for me.” She pulled moisturizer from her pocket, coating her hands before they met infront of her, rubbing together, gapping at you as though you were her prey. Your need to obey your panther was still ingrained deep into the crevices of your brain. So It was second nature for you to throw your waist length locs over your shoulder so that she would have a better look at you from behind while you turned slow, giving her a show.
“Mm.” She egged on approvingly. When you finally faced her again there was an unreadable expression on her face. A bit of a storm brewing behind her eyes. However, your want for her made you none the wiser.
Her index finger motioned you forward and you happily obliged, wanting nothing more than to fall into her arms, searching for that feeling of safety again. Those hands, those deliciously attractive tattooed hands landed on your shoulders, slowly, achingly, her fingertips trail down to your forearms. Her thumbs began to rub gentle but firm cirles into your arm. Eyes downcast and focused on her task. The evenness of your skin tone began to wipe away as you both watched a bruised cut apear onto your arm.
Your eyes watered, trained on your arm, afraid to look up. You felt Shuri’s glower burning the side of your face, heating your body with fear and embarrassment.
“P-performance injury’s.” You falsely claim, and Shuri hummed her disdain.
“Uyaxoka (You’re lying), I need to make something exceedingly clear, Bambo'lwami. You and I are both aware that there is not an ignorant bone in my body. Do not insult my intelligence.” A tear fell from your eye, dropping into the smeared make up on your arm.
“I did not call on you for body, Mtuwam. My intentions are not to seduce you, but to show you what you mean to me. So I will not participate in meaningless sexual banter with you, only for you to walk away from me back into the arms of an abuser. You have to know me better than that. Albeit, It’s been a while. But, my knowledge of the woman I love has not wavered. Mamela kum y/n, I’ll try not to jump the gun and allow myself to become irrational before you decide to be honest with me about whatever this is. I will not turn you away. But, I also will not use you at a time when you are vulnerable. You are loved by me completely and wholly.” Tears poured from their sockets as Shuri finally placed you inside of her protective embrace.
Your heart palpitated against your sternum as panick set in. She was calm. Too calm. What was she going to do?
“I feel you panicking Entle. It is true that everything inside of me is giving me the green light to end his life. The same thing that is driving me forward is holding me back.” She pulled away. Looking down into your eyes. “That is you. Say the word and it is handled.”
“It doesn’t happen that often. Sometimes he just gets-“ Shuri placed a finger on your lips. A smirk that doesn’t reach her eyes settling onto her face.
“Sh. Don’t piss me off. I’m on edge here Y/n. If your not ready for me to handle it. I’d advise you not to speak to me about it. I damn sure don’t want to hear fucking excuses for him.” Her anger escaped its wall for a second before she fought it back inside. “He will be handled mtuwam. I’ll try my best to wait for you to come to terms with that.” She gently placed your head back onto her chest, placing her chin onto the top of your head as she continued to comfort you with her embrace.
When all was said and done. Shuri stood tearfully in Bruno’s driveway, sending you back into the arms of your abuser.
Time flew by, before you knew it three months had past. Shuri had kept her promise; though she’d made it blaringly obvious that it was one of the most difficult things she’d ever had to do. She’d given you Kimoyo earrings that matched hers in multiple colors, because they were “more discreet than the bracelet”. They were to be on you at all times. Solely for her sanity while you were still with who she called “that man”. She was constantly back and forth between there and Wakanda. Still having duties to take care of, but it was clear that you intermingled with the top of her priorities.
While in Wakanda, she was constantly checking your location. If she saw you out to dinner or shopping, extra money would appear in the hidden account she’d gotten you. If she was with you in New Rochelle, she would hire brands to bring there latest collections to the house so that you could browse from the comfort of home. Your closet at her home had filled copiously. You didn’t want to take the clothes home, so they stayed there. Being that’s where you spent the majority of your time.
Access to her home was unlimited, an obvious no brainer for her. “You are the architect. It was made for you.” She would say. Her way with words had always made you swoon. So, over three months your husband had heard excuse after excuse for why you were gone early and coming home late. You’d blamed it on your schedule picking up after the wins. Which wasn’t entirely untrue. However, you always had time to be with Shuri.
In the begining, your attraction to your ex came simply from what you already knew her to be. Resplendant, undaunted, and most importantly secure. She’d come with guaranteed saftey. But, now it was so much deeper than that. All in all, it was simply…HER.
She’d grown so much. There was such a patience and maturity to her. An air of calm that was unknown to her former self. She was slow to anger. Quick to contemplate and very solution based. Her walk, a confident saunter that made you weak in the knees when you’d see her coming in the distance. When she spoke, it was matter of fact, direct. She had no time for bullshit. Shuri had always been a hopeless romantic, grand gestures being her thing. However, the lengths she would go were impressive.
She’d take you on random excursions in her helicopter. A day trip out of the country was not uncommon. You’d go back home to your husband with a tan you hadn’t had that morning, and tell him you’d taken up tanning. Your favorite part of her that not many others didn’t get to see, was her sense of humor. She made you laugh from your belly and it felt special to witness. It was as if it was a piece of her that was only for you. Relaxed and completely wound down.
Over time, you watched her work tirelessly and still there was nothing she wouldn’t do for you, and no time she couldn’t make for you. She made that very clear. Shuri in the past few months had turned out to be many things. But, if you had to narrow it all into one simple word. Only one came to mind.
Sexy.
It was bad. Every move she made turned you into a literal puddle. Her voice in particular made your spine tingle. And you’d be damned if she didn’t always smell edible. You felt like a preteen having your first real crush.
It’d been the longest two weeks you had ever encountered. Shuri had once again been out of the country, and this time you thought you would loose it. This was the longest stretch of time you’d not been in her presence since the two of you had reconnected and you were getting withdrawls. Today, she was due back and you couldn’t get to her fast enough. You threw on a cute tracksuit placing your hair in a high pony, to get ready to rush out of the house to head to her home.
“FUCK!” You yell, you’d swung your room door open and your sister was on the other side.
“Whoa! Slow down sonic. Where you headed?”
“Damn! You scared the shit out of me. I was headed to the gym.” Your sister looked you over and your outfit matched your story.
“Cool. Well I’ll join you. I could use a little sweat session. Let me borrow one of your sets and we can head out.” She pushed past you into the room to head to your closet.
“Dani, I’m working with a trainer.” Danielle glanced over her shoulder.
“And?”
“And this is my alone time.” Dani turned to you fully.
“Nah what’s up. What’s really happening? You’ve been M.I.A lately we always spend time together and somehow we’ve barely been in touch.” She sat on the edge of your bed. Waiting for a plausible answer.
“I-I just been working. There’s a lot of pressure on me with this new project after winning 9 Grammy’s everyone is expecting perfection.”
“I didn’t know you were even working on a new project?”
“It’s just-“ you were interupted by the flash of your Kimoyo earring against your sisters face and your eyes widened.
“Bitch did your earring just take a picture of me?” She stood walking back over to you squinting at your ear, and then it hit her.
She looked over your shoulder and around the room perplexed.
“I just know damn well that this isn’t what I think it is.”
“What?” You say feigning innocence.
“Those are damn Kimoyo earrings.”
“N-no-“
“Griot” Your sister announces.
“It’s nice to hear from you again Ms. Danielle.”
Your eyes shifted downward. Caught.
“Check the message y/n. Out loud.” You sigh.
“Griot, please open my messages.”
“Yes Nkosazana, The Queen says she will be in shortly and has asked me to advise you to meet her in the garden.” Your sister throws her hands up dramatically walking away from you.
“Thank you Griot.” You reply softly.
“You sneaky bitch!” She whisper yells.
“You can stop whispering Mike caught a flight out this morning.”
“Good. YOU SNEAKY WHORE! You’re fucking Shuri!!”
“Ok you’re doing a lot! And I am not fucking Shuri! We’re just friends.”
“Friends? Friends! On what planet can you be friends with someone who did you the way Shuri did. That’s not a friend!”
“Damnit Dani! Give the woman some grace! What she did was fucked up and it hurt. But it was over years before she proposed and she’d done the work, before word even got out. She’s an even better woman now. So your disdain for her is completely unwarranted. She isn’t that person anymore!”
“I call bullshit!”
“Dani it happened to me! So you should get over it! I have!” Your sister took a deep breath before continuing.
“Little sister I don’t want you to get hurt. You have a damn good man that would never hurt you the way Sh-“
“You don’t know that!” You scream. “You don’t know Shit Dani! Your talking shit but you were at her house sipping cocktails and watching fireworks on Grammy’s night; at a party she threw to celebrate me! In a house that she built in memeory of us!” Confusion took over your sisters face.
“Mike has been mentally, emotionally, and physically abusive for years! And Shuri would have NEVER done THAT! It took Shuri a second to see me and nobody else noticed! She’s kept me out of here and safe, so Mikes abuse has been minimal lately. She hates that I’m staying here. Afaid of the consequences of leaving. But she’s trying her best to be understanding, and takes damn good care of me sis. Such good care….I feel so loved. So protected, and she’s only being a friend.” Tears now poured down you and your sisters face. “So Yea. I’m leaving. And I’m going to go be with Shuri. Because I’m in love with her…You can let yourself out.” You walk out of your house leaving a stunned Dani behind.
Underneath the apple trees, you sat on a bench with your head lying on Shuri’s shoulder. Munching on the perfectly juicy fruit, surrounded by the beauty of the garden.
“This is nice.” Your eyes closed taking in the smell of the flowers, the fruit, and the woman. Shuri smiled. “Yes it is.”
“Shuri?” She hummed, signaling you to go ahead.
“My sister knows.” Shuri’s brown raised as she continued overlooking the garden.
“How much?”
“She knows that I’ve been spending my time here, and that you’re Sweet Lady… She also knows about Mike.” Shuri contemplated on your words a moment before she spoke.
“Thwandie?” She speaks softly in that voice you loved so dearly.
“Yes?”
“I’d like to tell you a story.” You lift your head. Eyes connecting with the sharpness of her jaw, and her handsomely gorgeous side profile. “Ok?”
“A few years ago, There was a young queen, who lost her heart. After she lost her, she felt as since of finality. A vast emptiness that scared her to her core. And as she tried to give her Princess space. Time to sit with the betrayal of the queen. That emptiness penetrated her deeply. It drove her insane.” Shuri took a deep breath and you lay unmoving on her strong shoulder as her arm found your waist.
“So one day, she couldn’t take it anymore. She showed up to the princess’s home and she begged her forgiveness. Not for the well being of her love. Purely to mend her own brokenness caused by her own poor decision making. Needless to say the door was slammed in her face. Rightfully so. But the self righteous queen continued to bang and beg. Pleading with the princess to help her. All to no avail. So the queen placed her back to the door sitting, quietly crying. Woe is me. Until a few minutes passed and suddenly this wail comes from inside the house. Right on the otherside of the door. It was heartbreaking. Full of a deep ache. A soul wound. So she sat silently crying against the door, as her heart sobbed trying to cleanse herself of the wound the woman she’d trusted had given her.”
A solemn tear fell down your cheek, moans escaping your lips through the suppressed sound of hiccups. Shuri continued her own voice shaking as she held back tears of her own.
“I was still there. I heard it. Every body racking sob you let out. That sound etched itself in my mind for years. I got my shit together y/n. I sat and I tortured myself with the sound of the hurt I cause you. And I got up. And I got my shit together, and dedicated my life to being the type of woman who would’ve made you a proud wife. Because that’s what you deserve. That is what you have always deserved.” Tears welled from deep inside and coursed down her cheeks. “You said I inspired you. But you are THE reason. The reason for every move I make baby girl. The reason I learned to pray.” A sob escaped your lips as you turned looking out over the lake. Shuri shed tears of her own as she watched you. The sun was begining to set. Casting a beautiful light over your silhouette.
“I don’t know why you’re choosing to stay there with him. But, I’m ESTATIC that Dani knows. Because now I am sure that it will be short lived. I know it won’t be for me. But please… Leave him. I just want to see you happy.” Her eyes peirced into yours thoughtfully. You gaze back into her eyes, Your feelings beginning to bubble up ready to explode from your lips.
“Shuri I-“
“Panther, M’Baku is trying to reach you.”
“I apologize. I must take this.”
“Ofcourse, I’m gonna go inside. The guys are coming over for a session I should get to the studio.”
“Ok. I’ll be in shortly.” You smile and nod, turning to walk away, heart still racing from what had almost been said.
You stepped into the booth, befuddled by Shuri’s words in the garden. You’d wanted so bad to let her know that she owned your heart. That and so many other parts of you. Every part. She had been the insperation behind your pen, Making words flow from you like a river. You’d pushed out soo many songs to use in the past few months, just dreaming of her being yours again. Now here you stood in her home studio, prepared to bring them to life. Bruno sat behind the sound board with your producer Leon, when the doors to the studio opened.
Shuri swaggered into the room with enough posh to bring you to your knees. She had changed from her more formal wear that she wore in the garden. Opting for purple joggers with a black button up jersey that had Wakanda written across the back in gold and purple gradient letters. A matching cap sat low over her eyes as she walked through dapping up all of the guys. Freshly showered it’d seemed.
She sat on the leather couch directly in your line of sight, and your heart dropped into your stomach. Her smile brightened the dimmed room as she acknowledged you. Arms sitting over on the back of the couch as she man spread underneath the spotlight that was meant to highlight the art on the wall. Now there sat a much more interesting piece beneath it.
“You ready to run this one all the way through?” Leon asked. You tried peeling your eyes away from Shuri, it was as though her presence cast a spell over you. Your fingers graze against the fretboard of your guitar and you build up enough strength to nod signaling them to start. They start the countdown. And the music began.
“You got meee
You've got meeee
You've got meee
You got me speeeeechleeeess”
Your guitar sang, piercing throughout room to reach the woman you loved.
“Where you been, baby?” Shuri laid her head back against the couch. Her eyes peering at you from underneath her cap.
“My heart starts trembling
As I hear your footsteps pace”
At this point, everyone else had faded. There was only you and Shuri.
“Goin' out my head I think I'm losin' all my mind
Drive me crazy burning candles, makin' love all night
Feels so strange, it feels so crazy to be in your world
In your arms lost for words, you got me”
You put every ounce of passion you had for Shuri into the song. Her bottom lip was now trapped between her teeth only amplifying your lust for her.
“Layin' so closely
I feel your skin rubbin' and touchin' me
Only sweat between us
Feelin' you kissin' and pleasin' me”
Shuri began to involuntarily squeeze the cushions of the couch. Your words and voice coursing through her veins. She was now inside of your mind. Visualizing every word that came out of your beautiful mouth.
“I rub your back
I kiss your neck
I know that you love when we touch like that
I can feel you need me
Feels so good to me
Feels so good to meeeeeee”
The tension was thick in the room. Shuri was hypnotized and you couldn’t take your eyes off of her. Wanting to see every bit of her reaction to you. The song gets more intense, your pretty breathy voice igniting a fire inside of Shuri.
“You got me
You got meEeEee
You got meeeee
You got meee”
Your eyes open staring straight into Shuri’s.
“Speechless”
You go into another guitar solo. Your eyes shut tight as your fingers worked the strings with proficiency.
“all I can say is
Yeees
Yeeess
YEEESSSS, all I can say is
YEeEessss
YeeeEEESS
YEEEEAHHH, OOH!”
Your eyes opened and Shuri now sat on the edge of her seat. The look on her face undoubtedly lust.
“Kiss me
Hold mee
You've got me
SSSpeechleeess”
The song ended and silence penetrated the room. Your eyes finally dropped away from Shuri’s.
“I think we got it.” You say breaking the silence.
“Yea.”
“That’s definietly it.”
“I don’t see it getting any better than that.”
Agreement scattered throughout the room. Shuri silently sat back on the sofa, her eyes never leaving you.
The rest of the night was spent perfecting and mixing the song. Discussing music for other projects, and bullshitting. You all smoke, drank, ate, and caught up. The tension however never left between you and Shuri. It was thick in the air and everyone felt it. The subtle glances. The avoidance of touching or being near eachother.
Everyone started packing up to leave one by one, until it was only you and Shuri left.
“Bye love, I’ll come by tomorrow.” You say to Bruno as you shut the door to the studio behind him. Turning to Shuri who stood leaning against the mixing board. You cleared your throat.
“I guess I should be getting ready to head home.” Shuri nodded.
“Yea. That’s probably a good idea.”
“Probably so.” You agree, as you began to gather your things.
“If that’s what you want.” You hear Shuri say. It stopped you in your tracks. “It is pretty late.” She says fiddling with the rings on her fingers.
“Shuri.”
“Yea?” She finally looks up from her hands.
“I don’t want to go home.”
“Then stay.”
“I’m gonna take a shower it’s been a pretty long day.” you announce as the two of you enter Shuri’s bedroom.
“Yea go ahead. Help yourself.” Though you were often at Shuri’s home, had a closet full of clothes, and her fridge was stocked with foods you loved. You had never spent the night. Always choosing to go home for the sake of discretion. But, tonight Mike was gone and with Shuri was were you wanted to be.
Shuri took off her shoes and unbuttoned her shirt, getting comfortable while you took your shower. She headed to her bar area fixing a drink before taking a seat in one of the plush chairs in the seating area of her bedroom, and turning on soft music. The soft warm lighting highlighted her toned stomach. Glistening against the simple gold chain around her neck as she leaned back, sinking deeper into the comfort of the chair trying to figure out what she was doing. This was dangerous. The two of you were playing with fire, and Shuri didn’t know how much longer she would be able to hold out. It was becoming apparent that the feelings the two of you had for each other were bubbling over. It was getting harder for this friend charade to last.
She’d dreamed of the day that she could call you hers again. Nevertheless, this time she wanted to do this right. Questions flooded her mind. If the two of you crossed that line, how would you feel about her afterward? Would you regret it and run off? She didn’t want to ruin the progress that had been made with you. She could be totally misreading the signs. Shaking her head she took a sip of her drink, rings clinking against the glass. Sitting it on the side table, her finger circled the rim as she remained in deep thought.
The click of the door to the bathroom grabbed Shuri’s attention. You stepped out of the fog. A black lacy lingerie set with a robe to match decorating your frame. A diamond garter sat high on your thick thigh. Strappy stilettos graced your pretty feet as the smell of your fresh scent permeated the air. You strutted further into the room with all the grace of a super model. Shuri raised a brow as she looked to both sides of her, to be sure she wasn’t dreaming or on a trip. Her mouth sat slightly ajar as her eyes settled back onto you.
Your walk had always been unmatched to Shuri; the sway of your curves was genuinely hypnotic. You approached the table infront of her with your alluring stride, stepping up onto the golden table, your pretty toned, gartered thigh peaked out from under the robe. Your fingers brushed against the pretty pendants that dangled from the chandelier, your eyes interlocking with Shuri’s.
“These chandeliers.. they’re made from vibranium? Yes?” You inquired seductively.
The rise and fall of Shuri’s chest was steady through the sports bra she wore under her opened shirt. Her heart pounding hard against her chest. She placed her drink against her lips again taking a light sip, before nodding her answer.
You smile. “Good.” You pulled the tie of the robe from around your waist allowing it to fall open. You began to tie the strap to the bar inside of the Chandelier as you spoke, finally pouring your heart to Shuri.
”You know Shuri. I wrote that song with you on my mind. I hope you felt that. Lately, all I seem to do is think of you. The smell of your cologne, the sound of your voice, the way you talk. You told me a while back that you wanted all of me, not only my body. Baby I’m ready to give myself to you. All of me. Because you deserve it.” You pur.
“Y/n I-“ Shuri tried interupting, but you cut her off. “Shhhh. Let me talk, beautiful.” you placed a finger against your lips and Shuri obeyed.
“You treat me so fucking good Shuri. I can’t help the way my body reacts to you. The woman that you are. So strong, powerful, and yet you’re still so gentle and patient with me.” You close your eyes letting out a low moan. “Shuri. Shuri. Shuri. Just your name is enough to make my body tingle. It’s written all over me. All over her.” You grab onto the tie that now hang taught from the chandelier with one hand and your other made a trail down your body and stopped over top of your mound. “All over my kitty kat.” Your body trembled as your hand ran over your clit. Your eyes open, connecting with Shuri who was salivating.
She had leaned forward her elbows on her knees with her drink dangling from the tips of her fingers. Her bottom lip was relaxed slightly seperated from her top, wet from her recently running her tongue over top of it.
“Shuri, baby. You give so much. Work so hard. What I want to know is, who takes care of you?” You finally took full hold of the Chandelier and let your body hang, opening your legs wide for the Queen. “I can do that for you daddy. I’d do anything for you.” You began moving your body to the music as you hung from the Chandlier, showing off like an acrobat. Leaving Shuri In a daze “Will you let me?” Shuri let out a staggered breath.
“Fuck.” Her voice was shakey. Her tongue once again ran slowly over her lower lip as she sat back in her chair placing her drink back on the table next to her. Moment by Victoria Monet began to play as you spun from the glistening beauty above you. Shuri was too stunned to speak as your body spun, streched, rolled and grind to the sexy song. If she was dreaming. Bast did she never want to wake up.
“BhaBha, are you sure you want to do this?” Shuri finally found words.
“I’ll show you.” Every coherent thought that Shuri had been thinking before exited her mind as you dropped onto the table in a split. Removing the robe from your shoulders. You move out of the split onto all fours. Crawling over and placing yourself inbetween Shuri’s spread legs. You place your hands onto her knees and slowly make your way up the inside of her thighs, fingertips brushing against her womanhood before making up your way up to her beautifully toned stomach. You lean forward and kiss right above her naval. Her stomach tensed from the contact and she let out a muted groan.
“Mm. My Queen. Do you know your power?” You continue laying sloppy kisses on her abs. “Do you see yourself?” She hisses throwing her head back against the chair, closing her eyes tight as her core began to throb. She gripped the arms of the chair. “Ahhh shhhit” She moaned.
You climb into her lap, kissing up her neck. “You’re tense baby. Have you been neglected?”
“E-entle, I-I can’t. We s-said we’d do this the r-right way.” Shuri tried to stand strong on her word, but you would always be her weakness. You bit right underneath her jaw before giving it a peck to ease the pain.
“Touch me Sweet Lady” you moaned. “Please. I need it.” As if commanded by the sound of your voice both of her hands rose slowly from the arms of the chair, gripping the meat of your ass. The both of you moan out as if you’d waited a life for that exact moment. Shuri gently nudged the side of your head with her chin as you were busy sucking on her neck. The sexiest of bedroom eyes fell on you.
Trailing your face down to your lips. You took your the hint, leaning in you exchanged breaths before you gave her your mouth. Sharing your first kiss in five years. You pressed into her gripping her shirt. You basked in the feel of he tounge gliding against yours. The walls crumbled. Any doubts about going further going with them. It started off slow and loving. Pecking eachothers lips softly. Slowly the Intensity built with the desire that had grown inside the both of you for months. It became a wet, sloppy, lusty display of affection.
A groan fell from Shuri’s lips. Pulling away from you looking into those beautiful brown orbs.
“I’ve lost restraint ubusi. It....it's..um... been a long time.” You pull back a bit searching her eyes. Yours grew in shock as you reached the realization of what she meant.
“Shuri? Have you not..Have you not had sex since we broke up?”
She buried her head into you, a bit embarrassed to say.
“I-I Uh…we… I couldn’t.” She whispered. You felt your core pulsate. Knowing that this gorgeous woman who could have had anyone in the world at her disposal waited for you. It made you want to give her the world. You wanted to please her in every possible way. She belonged to you. And you belonged to her.
You grabbed ahold of her hands. Intertwining them in yours and placing a sweet kiss to her soft lips. You take one of her hands placing it over your breast. You take the other and place it on your clothed pussy.
“Don’t worry baby. It’s just like riding a bike. I know you still got it.” Shuri’s hand rubbed slowly against your pussy, her other hand squeezing your breast. She left open mouthed kisses all over the exposed skin of your chest, trembling at the feel of you. Your wetness coating her fingers through your panties. Your body was so hot you felt as though you would scorch her lips. Pulling down the lace of your bra, she freed your breast out of its confinement, before flicking her tongue over your nipple. She then began to suckle, moaning at the taste of your skin on her lips again. You roll your hips into her hand. And gripped the back of her neck, head rolling back.
“Oh yes. Just like that. You got it baby.” You moan.
“You sound so fucking pretty like this.” Shuri whispered as she gave your other nipple some attention. The sound of her voice mixed with the sensation of her mouth on you and her fingers pressing against your clit made your vision blur.
“Fuck..we’re really doing this.” Her eyes were glassed over, trained on the whine of your waist. “We’re d-doing this Shuri. I need you. N-need you to make me feel good”
Her eyes shut tight. A groan of desperation reverberating from her throat. She bit into your nipple and your head lolled back letting out a whine.
“Demethi.” She whispered
Suddeny she was up on her feet with you settled easily in her strong grasp. She carried you the short distance, to a cushioned bench laying you gently onto your back. She stood above you, her sweats dipping low on her hips. The muscles from her hips and pelvic region making a perfect V. You moan at the sight of the African Goddess.
My God, this woman is in love with me?
You thought to yourself as her hooded eyes stared down at you in admiration. The sight of you must have been erotic. Your breast pulled over the top of your bra, legs spread wide as your fat wet pussy soaked through your panties. As diamonds twinkled against your thigh.
“Ubuhle bakho bundigqiba amazwi (Your beauty renders me speechless)”
“Shuri Please baby. I need you. Let me show you how I feel for you.”
“Patience Phakade lam(My forever). I want to take my time beauty. I’ve waited so long for you to be back in my arms. Let me take my time.”
She settles herself between your legs, lifting your right leg placing a kiss against the jewlery on your ankle. She kissed, sucked, and licked down to the garter on your thigh, before biting into the thickness beneath it. Unable to resist. She grasped the garter with her teeth pulling it down your leg maintaining eye contact. Once she got it over your heeled foot she sat up straight dropping it from her mouth. She repeated the same actions on your ungartered leg, except she made her way all the way up to the crotch of your panties. Nuzzling her nose into you. Taking in your smell. You grind your pussy against her face
“Baby please she’s aching. I need you so bad.”
“Turn for me.” You eagerly sit up making a show of turning over onto your stomach for her. You lay flat, and she grabs your hips pulling your ass up, making you arch your back for her. You spread open wide for her and bounced each ass cheek seperatly. Showing off.
“Bast, so beautiful” She leaned down, pulling the string of the thong and setting it to the side of your ass cheek and spread you wide open.
“I’ve missed you sphalaphala sam (my pretty one)”
Your hips began to rotate in anticipation. She placed her face between the cheeks of your ass and placed a lick to your needy cunt.
“YES!” You yell, eager for her mouth on you. You go deeper into your arch.
“Ooohh that’s what you want pretty girl?”
“Fuck yes Shuri. Please!”
Shuri lapped at your pussy a few more times before taking all of it into her mouth. She moaned at the taste of your wetness as she gripped each side of your thighs, spreading you unforgivingly. Your moans were trapped in your throat as a tear rolled down your cheek. Yes! It was finally happening. You threw your ass back against Shuri’s face as she opened wide, sticking out her deliciously long tongue. Placing it inside of your hole. She fucked you with her tongue as your ass slapped against her face.
“Mmm. Smother me sthandwa.” She moaned into your pussy.
“Oh my God Shuri. Eat this pussy! Eat it. You better eat this shit! Just like that.! Yeeeessss!” Your praises landed on Shuri’s ears and sent signals directly to her swollen thick clit. She straddled the bench, getting comfortable as she cleaned her plate involuntarily grinding into the seat beneath her.
Her body quivered from the sounds coming from your mouth mixed with the squelching of your cunt. Fuck was she going to cum untouched.
“Uhn, uhn! Shuri! Oh Shuri! I’m gonna cum.”
“Let it go baby! Drown me! Cum on my fucking face!” On command your thighs began to shake and Shuri pressed your ass into her face taking hold to your clit trapping it between her lips.
“I’m cumming! I’m cumming! I’m cuuuummiiiiiinng!” You scream as Shuri held you against her as your body convulsed. Trying to fall flat against the bench. Shuri felt herself on the cusp of her own release and quickly removed herself from the bench. Face drenched in your nectar.
“Stay arched for Nkosazana. Please.” The sexiest groan left her lips. “I need to cum.”
You felt her hips grinding into you desperately from behind, She remained fully clothed much to your dismay. You felt her heavy breath against your neck and you panted along with her. Feeling high from her touch.
She pressed herself up against you. Running her hand up your spine she unclasped your bra with expertise. As she continued rolling her hips. Bending over she began placing kisses along your spine. Her hot breath making your body shiver. She made it up to your collar bones wrapping her arms around you gripping at your breast. She planted sloppy kisses on the back of your neck. Grunting as she grinded making your clit jump aching for her to touch you again
“Shuri baby?”
“Hm.” She groaned as she continued to kiss you.
“Use me. Please use me baby. Make yourself cum on me. Take what you need.”
Without hesitation, Shuri sat up on her knees not bothering to stand to take off her pants and boxers. She pulled them just below her ass and placed her thick swollen clit onto your ass grinding against it as you pressed yourself into her. “AhOooh. Oh Bast.” She moaned deep as her body jerked on contact, her clit sensitive and aching for release. She began thrusting into you with fervor. Face scrunched biting hard into her lip as she selfishly cosintrated on her release.
You reach between your thighs rubbing circles into your clit as Shuri ground her pussy into you.
“Oh Fuck Shuri! You like how that feels daddy. You like how this thick ass feels against that big clit daddy.”
“Fuck. Yes! Yes y/n don’t stop. Ah! Keep g-grinding that shit for me uuhhnnn r-right there. Oouu you feel sooo good.” She wound her waist behind you.
“Oouuu Panther, Never. I’ll never stop! I love it when you use me!”
Shuri gripped the back of your thong with both hands using it as leverage to press you further into her as she leaned her torso back slightly watching you work against her. Her head lulled back, her eyes rolling to the back of her head. You could her breathing start to pick up behind you as she began thrusting against you. You arched harder and she gripped the flesh of your ass hard. You knew it would surely leave bruises. She let go of you with one hand getting one of her pants legs off with the other to get a better angle against her clit. She began to spread you open as she concentrated on her nut. That’s when her engorged clit slipped into your folds. Your hungry hole sucking her in. Both of your mouths fell open at the sensation. Shuri’s thrust got impossibly faster as your pussy clenched onto her clit doing kegals.
A moan attempted to escape Shuri’s lips but it only came out in choked gasps.
“Pretty girl. T-take it eaaaasy on me!” You were insatiable feeling Shuri inside you. Teasing your hole as you rubbed your clit ferociously. It was like nothing either of you had ever experienced before.
“I want to feel it! I want to feel your pussy cum inside me!”
Shuri felt the pressure building and she could no longer hold it. She reached forward grabbing your locs, bending over to get her clit as deep inside of you as possible.
“You’re s-so fucking nasty. It’s so u-unladylike Entle.”
“I don’t want to be a lady. I want to be your dirty little slut. The Queens whore.” You spit back at Shuri. She let out a low growl, grabbing your hips, slapping her own against yours, fucking into you hard.
“Bast! I’m cumming! I’m cumming! G-Grip me! Bhaby grip me! I wanna fill that pussy.”
“Yes Shuri yes! Explode in this pussy!”
An animalistic howl left Shuri’s mouth, the sound triggering your own release.“Uuuuuhhhnnn.” She pulled your body up completely by your hair. Pressing you against her. Her hips stuttering and body shaking as she released years worth of cum onto your waiting ass. “Fuckfuckfuckfuckfuckfuck.” She mumbled as you continue rubbing your ass against her, wanting to milk her of all her essence. She burried her head into your neck. Still quivering from her release. Both of you collapse onto the bench.
“You Definietly still got it Shuri.” You say breathlessly. You both laugh.
“The Queens whore huh? Oh Thando. You’re in for a long night.” Shuri says. You turn your head around, capturing her lips in a kiss.
“You waited for me. I have all night tonight and every other night after. Just tell me what you want. Now, I want to taste your cum.”
Shuri rose to her knees and you turned to face her straddling the bench. You came face to face with Shuri’s pretty brown soaked pussy.
“So beautiful.”
You smiled having missed the sight of her thick clit that jutted out from her pussy lips. You give it a lick and her body jolts. Still sensitive from her orgasam. You give it a few more licks before immersing it with your mouth. Sucking it up and down as if giving her a blow job. Shuri wrapped your locs up in her hand as she gently thrust herself into your mouth.
“Oooh baaaaby.” She groaned. “Just like that. Good fucking job.”
You moan at her taste and encouragement. Your hands travel up her legs caressing her hamstrings. One of your hands continued up finding its way between her thighs. Your middle finger finding its way to her tight hole.
“Shit. Mtuwam fuck me. Ahh!” It came out in a blissed out whisper as she continued to control the movements of your head.
“Mm, so needy” you moan into her aching twat. Shuri’s eyes were closed her mouth ajar concentrating on the pleasure you were giving her. You watched her abs contract with each thrust as your other hand found it’s way back between your legs. Shuri’s breathing sync’s with her thrust and you knew she was close again. Slurping at her bud you add another finger going a bit faster. Her legs began to tremble and you got ready to drink her sweet nectar.
“Yes that’s right give me another one Panther. Bless my mouth. You deserve it.” you whined.
“It’s coming baby! Catch it for me!” You opened your mouth wide and flicked your tongue over her clit.
“Uuuhhh it’s coming baby! It’s -“ Grabbing the back of your head she pressed you into her and her juices splashed onto your tongue and all over your face as you fucked her through it.
“Ugh it so good! Soso good!” Shuri screams as she let go again. You continue lapping at her getting her all cleaned up. Once she caught her breath she released you from her core. Bending down to place her lips on yours.
“Thank you so much for pulling that out of me. I needed that. Now daddy’s going take over pretty girl.” She smirked. Your core clenched around nothing anticipating Shuri’s next move.
She motioned you closer to her with her head wanting nothing more than to please the panther, you obeyed. She grabbed your arms wrapping them around her neck, and stood from the bench. Gripping underneath your thighs, wrapping your legs around her waist, she finally shook the other pants leg from her leg and carried you over to the bed. She tapped your ass twice signaling you to stand on the bed, motioning to the chandelier that hung from the mirrored ceiling. You smirked jumping slightly to grasp onto the bar inside.
“Show me how wide you can open up for me.” She said as she removed her shirt and sports bra. Finally standing before you completely naked. You spread wide open for her. Revealing your bare and soaking wet cunt.
“Stay just like that for me.” She pulled up her camera on her Kimoyo beads. “You don’t mind if I take pictures do you?” She stood back watching you. “You just look so beautifully erotic.” Her sensual gaze caused your core to pulse, and you spread wider for her camera.
“Mmm, that’s my girl. Look at how fucking wet you are. Hanging from my pretty Chandelier.” She saunters over to you closer placing her thumb onto your clit. You hiss.
“This shit is innovative sthandwa. I love your mind.” She said as she rubbed her thumb up and down your sensitive bud. “Let’s play a game. How much longer can you hold on while I taste you? Hm?” She stepped forward placing a kiss directly to your clit. You moan thrusting your pelvis forward chasing her mouth.
“Oouu look at you. You needed daddy’s mouth?” She didn’t waste anymore time. She dove in with an open mouthed kiss right to your core. You placed your thighs on her shoulders grinding into her face as you literally hang from the ceiling.
“Oh God! I missed that fucking tongue daddy!” You threw your head back watching the scene play out on the ceiling. She went between sucking your clit and fucking you with her tongue hands free.
“You taste *slurp* so fucking *slurp* good *pop*” She slapped your ass hard. The stinging pain mixing perfectly with the pleasure she gave.
“Mmm. It’s so good! You’re the fucking best!.”
The longer she went, the more your body began to tense and shake. Concentrating on holding on becoming an after thought along with your hands becoming sweaty. Your hands slipped and Shuri’s panther reflexes came in handy. She caught you by the ass, both of you landing roughly onto the bed. Shuri didn’t miss a beat. Your legs started to close as you got closer to your peak. Shuri slapped the inside of your thigh.
“Be a good girl. Keep them open for me.”
She carressed your thighs as she enjoyed her meal. You spread them wider and she rewarded you with those beautiful long fingers. Pumping in and out of your pulsating hole.
You look down, watching her long tongue circle your clit, before disappearing inside of you. Her eyes closed savouring your taste as she made your body feel better than it had in years.
“You feel s-so good Shuri. Ssss so good.”
Shuri curved her fingers hitting your spot, she opened her mouth wide using her entire tongue to place over the entire length of your clit pressing against it putting the perfect amount of pressure. Moving her head up and down. She looked up at you as she worshipped your pussy. Your back arched pressing against her more. Your legs began to shake. Your hands reach between your legs and to the top of Shuri’s head. Her movements became short and choppy knowing you were close.
“Give it to me gorgeous. I’m thirsty.” She demanded.
You gasp. Pressing her further into you as your body began to quake. “Mmmm baby baby baby!” You shout over and over, gasping for air as you cream heavily onto Shuri’s face.
“Mmhmm, mhmm, Let it out.” She pulled back after you stop shaking taking a look at her work. Watching the cream leak from you.
“I missed you pretty girl.” She spoke into your pussy nudging it with her nose before diving back in to clean her up. “Thank you for keeping me hydrated mama.”
She kissed up your body now hovering over you. “And thank you for letting me taste her again. I promise she’ll never want for a thing.”
Your juices sat on Shuri’s face, dripping from her chin. Her eyes, blown and focused. You opened your mouth and she smiled, opening her own and sticking out her tongue. You lift up sucking your juices from her tongue, and cleaning her face with your own. She lay between your legs grinding up against you as the two of you share your juices in a kiss.
“I need to fuck you now baby. Can you give me more. I want to make you cum all night.” Her breath against your ear sent tingles down your spine and there was nothing you wouldn’t do for her in that moment.
“Please. Please fuck me.” Before you knew it Shuri had plucked one of her Kimoyo beads from her bracelet, placing it against her twat. She tapped it and it expanded into her wide curved strap. She places one of your legs on her shoulder slowly entering you with a groan.
“Ohhh Shuriiiiii”
She enters you in one smooth push, making you gasp like a virgin on her first time. Lovingly, she looks into your eyes, and begins to fuck you into oblivion. She knows... instinctively knows...what you need. She whispers into your ear, "Ooooh y/n…...I'm going to cum in your pussy.” The notion fills you. All you want is her cum. At this moment she could talk you into having her baby.
“I missed this. Uhn, being inside of you. The f-feeling of you g-gripping me. So wet, so fucking tight.”
She rolled her hips one of your legs on her shoulder the other around her waist. Tears began running down your cheeks. Speechless. Your pussy was so sensitive. Shuri kissed the tears from your cheeks as she continued to thrust inside of you. Your moans of pleasure her motivation.
“So pretty, such a pretty pretty sound. The prettiest song you’ve ever made.”
Her thrust started to speed up. “I want more of it.” She took the leg from around her waist placing it on her other shoulder and sat up on her knees. She was completely in control, as she gripped your hips bouncing you on her dick allowing deep penetration. You moan salaciously "Fuck me....fuck me deeper!" She pounds you banging hard into you. You were so out of it in your pleasure that you hadn’t noticed Shuri moving you two up the bed until your back hit the headboard.
“Damnit Shuri I c-can’t! I c-can’t take it! Too gooooood! Sooo deep!” Her thrust made your words staccato as you did your best to fuck back into her.
“Yes you can. You’re taking this shit baby. Taking me so well.” One of her arms was straight out holding onto the headboard as her other assisted in bouncing you into her.
“Shuriiiiiii!!!” You yell as the pleasure became overwhelming. This caused her to press into you deeper pausing to feel your pussy squeezing against her. She slowed down. Choosing slow hard strokes, so you could feel all of her. You were full out crying now. A delirious mess.
“That’s right baby cry for me. The only tears I want to see. This pussy is mine now. Nobody else can have my pussy..”
You tried to reply but it only came out as gibberish. “I want to hear you baby. Who’s pussy is this?” You gather up strength to reply.
“YOURS PANTHER!!” She gives another slow and hard stroke. “What’s my name?!” Your head fell to her shoulder as tears continued to pour. “Uuuggghhh.” Your moan came out in a gurgle.”
Shuri’s hand that had been on the wall was now around your throat. “Uhuh. I asked you a question. What’s. My. Fucking. Name?” She punctuated each word with a thrust.
“AhhhUuuuhhhhnn!” You screamed. “SHURI!!”
“All of it b-baby! Say your wife’s name.”
“AAAAAja-A-A Adanna SSSShuri FUCKING UDAKUUU!”
“That’s a g-good f-fucking girl.” She praises against your lips.
Dazed and fucked out you began to speak gibberish. Spewing out whatever came to mind and Shuri replied the two of your foreheads pressed together lips ghosting over one another’s, as the two of you reached your peaks.
“I don’t ever wanna leave.”
“You don’t have too”
“I wanna have your b-babies”
“We can have as many as you want.”
“You fuck me so good”
“I’ll fuck you like this everyday for the rest of our lives”
“Uhn God your so sexy”
“And I’m all yours Entle.”
“Ooouuuu I’m cuuuummmmiinnng.”
You feel her body stiffen and know she will cum too. Finally she groans, "Oh y/n....I'm cumming with you!" Deep inside, you feel the cum shooting into you, and it tips you over the edge. You cum savagely, squirting onto Shuri’s strap, and your world shattered into bright shards of light and colour. Shuri had captured your mouth as the two of you came both of your moans and groans of pleasure shooting down eachothers throats. Shuri’s hips continued to stutter inside of you as she gave slow less powerful thrust. Your head lolled down onto her shoulder, as the two of you slide down the head board.
Your body was spent and you were dozing. You hadn’t been fucked that good since you and Shuri broke up. Just quick sessions of huffs and puffs until Mike got his. Leaving you to fend for yourself. She fucked you so good you could suck your thumb.
“Sthandwa, let me hear you.” Shuri said after a moment of recuperation. All you could manage was a hum. Her hand came to the top of your head massaging your scalp as you lay on top of her body.
“Uthando Iwami lungangolwandle. Impilo yami ngeke ibe lutho ngaphandle kwakho, Ndiyakuthanda.” (My love for you is greater than the ocean. My life is nothing without you. I love you)
“I love you too Shuri. My dear Aja-Adana.” Shuri lifted her head kissing your forehead.
“Thando?”
“Hm.”
“Can you give me one more?” Your body was screaming at you. Bone achingly tired, and your pussy was at capacity. But you wanted nothing more than to continue making love to Shuri. So you rolled over onto your back and spread your legs for her. She sat up, looking down at you as if you were the worlds most precious gift.
“Awusemhle (You’re beautiful)” Your tired eyes looked up into hers that had glazed over. She bent down placing a kiss to your tired sloppy cunt, and you jerk at how sensitive you are. She gave loving licks to your pussy. Doing her best to ease the ach before getting your last orgasam from you.
“One second.” She got up and headed to the closet. When she came back she held in her hand a double sided dildo. “Can you take it mtuwam?” You didn’t know. But you were definitely going to try. You held out your hand to her and she placed the toy inside. You lubricated the toy with your mouth and slowly inserted it into your aching hole.
Shuri’s eyes lowered as she watched you pump it slowly in and out. She crawled over to you, and sat legs open wide. She pulled you closer to her by the backs of your knees, and placed your legs over top of hers, inserting her end of the dildo.
“Ahhhhh” you both let out satisfied moans as the two you began moving your hips, your clits kissing as you meet in the middle. Shuri wrapped her arms around your waist, and you wrapped your arms around her neck. Moans and groans resounded throughout the room over the music that was now Victoria and Kehlani crooning about wanting to be touched. You could relate. Hands probing and carressing every inch of eachothers body as you bounced against Shuri’s lap. Your bodies dripped with sweat, intertwined, moving against eachother like well oiled machines. You leaned back so that she could get a better view of your beautiful breast bouncing. She leaned forward catching one in her mouth, bitting into your nipple and then running her tounge in a circle around it before sucking, and repeating with the other one.
She pulled you up placing her head in the crook of your neck. Biting licking and sucking. At some point it all stopped and the two of you could only focus on the feel of eachothers bodies this close to eachother again. You had found your way back into eachothers arms. When Shuri pulled back, you both recognized the stain of tears streaming down eachothers cheeks.
“I’m so sorry I ever hurt you.” She choked out with a sob. Your hands cupped the back of her neck as you brought your foreheads together. “Thank you baby. Thank you for giving me another chance. I promise you won’t regret it.”
“I know Shuri. I know.“ Shuri’s hips began to move faster in a circular motion. Sighing, moaning, and crying the two of you were experiencing a pleasure neither of you had felt before. It was otherworldly. Your lips ghosted over eachothers breath combining as you made love.
“Bast. You feel so good. I don’t ever want to loose you y/n. Be mine again. Please baby. L-let me call y-you mine. Shit!”
“Aaahh! I’m already yours Shuri. I belong to you.” Shuri’s pussy squeezed the dildo and she took control. Fucking you harder.
“Oh Shuri! Im about to cum. Cum with me!”
“Mm Mm. Not yet. Let go now baby. I’ll join your next one.”
Your body couldn’t hold it you released hard all over the toy. Shuri gripped your waist harder not stopping.
“SH - SH-SHURI!!! I-I can’t! OOOOOHHHH GOOOODDDUUUHHH!!! I can’t cum anymooore”
Shuri grabbed your neck continuing fucking herself on the dildo as it also stroked your sensitive inside. She nodded. “You can take it, Entle. You’ve been wanting me to fuck this pretty pussy for a while now. Let me get the big one out of you!” Your mouth was frozen open tears pouring down your face. The look on your face had Shuri ready to explode. She could no longer hold it.
“Come on baby! Finish for me. You can do it! I’m cumming y/n! Pull it out of me!” An intense pressure built up inside the two of you as the sun rose over the horizon, and the both of you reached your final explosive climax’s.
“UuuuhhhAAAAAAAAHHHH!!!” You let out a guttural scream as your body convulsed and squirted.
“FUUUUUUCCCKKKK, Fuuucck, Fuuuuuckkk!!!!” Shuri groaned as her own juices splashed against yours. You both reached down rubbing your hand quickly side to side over your clits, juices still flowing splattering all over eachother.
The two of you collapsed, seperating from eachother; but, covered in eachothers cum.
“We should take a shower.” Shuri said after slightly coming down from her high.
“I can’t move.” You say half dead. Shuri laughs. She sits up grabbing a blanket from the end of the bed. She grabbed your hands pulling you up, wrapping your arms around her neck. And bringing you over to a dry side of the bed. She wrapped you both in the blanket as you intertwined your legs with hers lying on her chest.
“The suns coming up.” You say.
“I noticed. I guess we got a bit carried away.” She chuckles
“A little.” You join her.
“Sthandwa.”
“Ewe.” Shuri smiled at your use of her native language, before turning serious.
“He cannot have you any longer. I mean that.” She grabbed your chin lifting it so that you could look at her. “The marriage is done. Time is up. You are mine and I want you here with me.” You smile, placing your bottom lip into your mouth.
“And here is the only place I want to be.” You say before the two of you drift into a peaceful sleep.
Click, Click
The sun blared into the room. Soft music still playing over the speakers. Shuri lie flat on her back, as you lie betwixt her legs, head resting on her naked stomach. The room was blurry as you streched opening your eyes. Your movement caused Shuri to stir beneath you, her grip tightening around your upper back. You lift your head to rub your eyes when the back of your head was met with cold steel. Your heart fluttered, as you turned your head only to be met with a familiar silhouette.
“Shuri.. Shuri baby..” You call out tapping her side frantically as tears began to form.
“Don’t be scared now, Waka. You disrespectful cunt.”
Shuri’s eyes popped open, at the sound of the male voice inside of her room.
“What the fu-“ She came face to face with your husbands calm demeanor. As he held a pistol to the back of your head. The anger in his eyes unmistakeable. Her eyes found your panicked ones looking up to her with sheer terror. Your breathing was erratic, and your palms began to sweat.
“Be calm Thandiwe. You are safe with me.” Calm, steady, not an ounce of fear, could be detected in her tone.
“You are a smart man Mr. Addai. Atleast that’s what I gathered from my extensive research.” Shuri brought her hands up to rest underneath her head. Her small perky breast exposed, however she was unfazed. Mike brought the gun up to her quickly.
“I already have a bullet in the chamber. I suggest you not move a muscle.”
“Relax. What are you afraid of? You’ve got the upper hand. The gun, the element of surprise. We’re only two women. What are we going to do?” Staring Shuri down, he kept the gun, and his attention on her. “Ubusi, go fix me and your husband a drink, and bring my robe. Cover yourself, your body is no longer his to see.”
Mike began to move the gun back to your head and Shuri quickly reached up grabbing the barrel, placing it back onto her.
“Ah ah on me oo.” She looks him dead in the eye, She acknowledges you again only with her words. “Do as I say my love.” You instantly get up from the bed taking the covers with you revealing Shuri’s naked, cum stained body. His eyes followed you as you scurried off of the bed.
“Don’t even think about it.” She whispered, bringing his attention back to her. His eyes trailed Shuri’s beautiful toned, cum stained body. “Excuse, the mess. We got a little carried away and passed out. So much cum. Have you ever made her cum? Didn’t seem like it last night.”
“You talk a lot of shit for a bitch with a gun to her head.”
Shuri chuckles. “Common sense. It betrays you Michael. What was your plan? To walk armed into the home of the Queen of a nation, quote undetected end quote, into an unguarded room. Hold a gun to my babes head, and somehow make it out alive to take her home?” She once again chuckles. “Did it not feel wrong when you walked the halls and not one guard or Dora spotted you? And here I believed you where at the very least a critical thinker.” Shuri cocked her head to the side, sizing him up. “We all but rolled out the red carpet for you. Idiot.” She whispered. Fear resonated behind his eyes, they darted from side to side now searching for Shuri’s henchmen.
Demure in the presence of the Queen, now clothed in your robe you approach her with her own, and the drinks that she’d requested. Composed and unafraid she stood to her feet without warning.
“I said don’t move!” Michael screamed, clearly unnerved. You place the drinks on the table beside the bed, and Shuri turns her back to you as you hold her robe open, so that she could ease it on. Shuri side eyed Mike, amused at his irratic behavior. Choosing not to acknowledge him at the moment, she placed a finger underneath your chin.
“Enkosi, Bambo'lwami. Be a good girl for me and stay out of the way.” She spoke sweetly as she placed a sweet kiss to your lips. Your gaze met hers adoringly. Even in imminent danger, she made you feel as though you were the only ones in the room, making your body react to her. You nod, “Whatever you want, baby.” It came out more seductively than you intended, and Shuri smirked, raising a brow. You turned to walk away and she bit into her lip.
“I’m going to have fun with that later. You smell that?…” Shuri sniffed the air. “That’s her arousal.” Shuri smirked. Picking up her drink from the table.
“Fuck you!” Mike yells, Shuri cringed.
“I think not.” She says, cooly taking a sip.
“My problem is not with you.”
“I bet it isn’t.”
“You saw an opportunity and you took it.”
“Is that what I did?”
“I’m leaving here with my wife.” Shuri stepped forward into his gun, the barrel between her eyes.
“I wish the fuck you would.” Mike took a shakey breath and In the blink of an eye straightened his arm out to the side pointing it towards you, letting out a shot. You scream falling to the floor, and Shuri took the thick glass and shattered across Mikes face. Dora rushed into the room. “Take her! I’ll handle him.” Shuri’s attention now lie on the groaning man on the floor. She bent down to his level, gripping him by the neck.
“I hear you like to fight women. Fight me.” Her demeanor was still calm as she spoke. Mikes face scrunched in pain.
“Come oooon now. No way way my little weak woman blow has you out already? Big strong man. Goooriiiillaaa!” Her laugh was sinister as she placed her face close to his, scrunching her eyes in faux confusion as he tried backing away from her.
“No? Nothing? Mchht, Demethi! I was wrong about you! I thought this would be fun! But you are truly pathetic.” She picked him up by his neck walking out onto her balcony hanging his body over the side.
“No! Please!” He screamed. Grabbing onto her robe for dear life.
“Please. Please he says.” His body thrashed under the strength of the Panther. Tears streaming from his eyes. “And he’s crying? My God! This is embarrassing for you. I see why that beauty downstairs made you so insecure.”
“Please just let me go.” Shuri raised a brow smiling. “Well if that’s what you want.” Panicked gasps left his lips as Shuri pretended to drop him. “Nononono! GAAHD!”
“You should be more specific with your requests Michael.” She held him a bit further over the edge. “I’ll tell you what. I’m going to go ahead and take my lady off your hands. You obviously can’t don’t no what you’re doing, so she’s mine now baby boy.”
“I honestly couldn’t have done it without you. All of the odds were in your favor, you had the power to make her never want to see me again. But you were negligent with a prize. Intimidated by her value. You brought her right back to me. And for that….” She pulled him up throwing him to the ground infront of her. “I’ll let you live. You are of no threat to me, and you can watch her be treated like the queen she’ll be.”
“The me before would have thrown you from the balcony, gutted you, and fed you to the lions. But I’m better now. And I’ll admit. I lied. This was fun. Now get out of my house.” Mike scrambled to his feet. Piss staining the front of his pants, bleeding from the side of his head as he rushed past Shuri, while she followed him out.
“Ikumkaziwam!” A Dora called out as they reached the top of the stairs trying to get Shuri’s attention. “Give me a moment to see him out of my home.”
“Y/n was hit by the bullet my Queen.” Instantly it felt as though the walls started to close in on her. Everything started to move in slow motion. The front doors opened and in ran your mother and your sister right as Shuri gave Mike a swift kick causing him to tumble down the stairs
“Where’s my sister?! Where’s my fucking sister?!” Mike reached the bottom of the stairs and Dani was on him immediately.
“You been putting your hands on my sister nigga! You shot my sister!” She screamed and threw punches to the unconcious man’s face. Your mother tried to pull Dani off of Mike but she was relentless. Shuri snapped out of her shock long enough to get to Dani pulling her off of him.
“He’s out Dani! He’s gone! Let me take you to your sister!” Dani pulled and tugged against Shuri trying to get herself out of her grip and Shuri let go. Dani snatched away, turning to Shuri placing a finger in her face.
“Don’t fucking touch me! This shit is on you!” She turned. “Somebody take me to my sister!” A Dora stepped in leading Dani to where you were.
“FUUUUUUUUCK!!!” Shuri yelled falling to her knees in tears.
“Pick yourself up little girl.” The voice of your mother came from over top of Shuri.
“I-I’m sorry.” Your mother shook her head. “Danielle is upset and irrational. You have nothing to apologize for. You know that.” Shuri sniffled.
“Yes mama I know.”
She bent to Shuri’s level grabbing her chin. “All you’ve done is love my baby. And you would never cause her harm. That’s why I called you to come get her. I knew you were ready. You’re not here for Dani or anyone else. You’re here for y/n. So get up.. and go be with her.” Shuri nodded standing to her feet.
Shuri entered the medical area of her lab inside of the house. She’d thrown on some sweats and a tshirt and rushed to your side. Bruno, your mom, and sister all surrounded you as She approached, seeing you lying unresponsive an open wound to your belly. “I’m sooo sorry sthandwa. I’m going to make this right. I promise.” She whispered standing over you, a sob breaking from her lips.
“Oh yea? And how do you plan on doing that?” Your sister glared at Shuri across from her. “Dani, now isn't the time for this.” Your mother interjects. “Then when is the time!? She shouldn't be here! Standing here acting hurt like she didn't cause my sister just as much pain as Mike did! It may not have shown up physically but you did just as much if not more damage and you couldn't fix that. So just how the fuck do you think you’re gonna fix this your highness!”
Your mother opened her mouth prepared to intervene, only to be interupted by Shuri. “Dani, I’m aware of what I did. I’ve received my karma everyday i had to wake up with her not next to me. I don't want any trouble. Your sister has forgiven me. And I hope in time you can too. Because I’m not going anywhere.”
The room was silenced. The Queen had spoken. She held onto your hand. Leaning down to whisper in your ear.
“It’s time to get up baby. This isn’t where our story ends.”
It was approaching midnight in Wakanda as Shuri stood outside of the river tribes village. People lined the streets dancing and chanting holding there sage and torches. Her eyes were misty, as Nakia, Toussaint, Okoye, and M’Baku stood steps behind her in support
“Usisi, they are ready for you.” Nakia says placing an encouraging hand onto Shuri’s back.
Shuri walked forward, watching her people celebrate the woman she loved. Tears finally fell as she thought back on all the time she’d wasted. The years the two of you could’ve spent had she not hurt you. The memories lost. You had always been a beckon of light for her, even when she couldn’t be near you. Your mere existence had brung her hope. Whether you knew it or not, you were the reason for the difference Shuri had made in the world. You’d made an immutable change in her life and she would forever be grateful. As Shuri reached the end of the alter she was met with the Elders.
“Ikumkazi wam, come.” The Merchant tribe elder stepped forward beckoning Shuri to her.
Shuri stepped forward and turned towards the crowd.
“Citizens of Wakanda, I Elder of the merchant tribe present to you Queen Shuri Udaku the Black Panther.”
Shuri gave her warriors salute and kneeled before the crowd. Their arms crossed over there chests in Salute to their Queen. The elder stepped aside, welcoming you and your family as you stepped forward in your traditional Wakandan garb.
“Heavy is the head that wears the crown.”The elder speaks up. “Tomorrow you will bare that weight, once conjoined with our beloved Queen and Panther. Today her shoulders are strong, mighty. As a gracious gift from bast runs through her veins. But she will not always carry the strength of the Black Panther. Tonight we test your willingness to bare the weight with your lover.”
Another elder steps forward handing you a wooden bowl with a deep iridescent purple liquid.
“Now my dear you will place this to your loves lips and strip away the powers of the Black Panther.” Slowly you walk up to Shuri who gave you a reassuring smile.
“Will it hurt?” You say concern filling your voice. Shuri looks up to you.
“My love, you don’t need to be concerned for me. I will be fine.” She reaches out squeezing your hand reassuringly.
With that, you place the liquid to her lips and she sips.
It immediately takes effects, veins poping from her forehead and neck, her teeth clenching, and brows furrowing. The people closed their eyes bouncing their shoulders to beat of the drums as Shuri groans in agony. As fast as it started it was over. She gave herself a second and stood to her feet, as the girl you met in your dorm several years ago. She’d grown her hair back. Once again rocking the curly top that you loved so dearly. Love filled her gaze as she took your hand. This was who you loved Not the Queen of Wakanda, not the Black Panther just Shuri.
She led you forward as the dancing and chanting began to start again your families combining behind you as she led you to the river. The two of you stopped at the edge the water, it tickling the tips of your toes before you turn your heads locking eyes adoringly before Shuri nods her head in reassurance. Together the two of you step into the water submerging yourselves in the blessed water.
People came, baring gifts of fruits and herbs to anoint your union as the full moon reached its peak. The Elders reached their hands out to you praying for the success of your marriage and reign as Queens of Wakanda.
You leaned forward, foreheads touching as Shuri’s hands snaked around your waist, your arms wrapped around her neck. And you heard her sniffles.
“They’re here Shuri. They’re watching. And they are proud.” She lifted her head allowing herself to be proud.
“I’m so exited to live the rest of my life with you bambo’lwami.” Your smile gave the moon a run for its money.
“I’m so glad you said yes.”
Shuri believed in the green light, the orgasmic future that year by year recedes before us. It eluded us then, but that's no matter- tomorrow we will run faster, stretch out our arms farther ... So we beat on, boats against the current, borne back ceaselessly into the past.
this work is nsfw(!!) nd is not intended for anyone below the age of 18. mdni
a/n: painfully late, this week was 🫠 but u know i love a good hurt/comfort 🫦
word count: 1.7k+
˚₊‧꒰ა ☆ ໒꒱ ‧₊˚
come back 2 me, sthandwa sam
riri stares at the words projected on her helmet’s screen as her vision swims and gradually fades to black, the voice of the message’s author asking (frantically) for a status report she’s currently unable to give.
they’re shuri’s words, the same ones she sends to her on every mission. riri knows though, that this isn’t at all shuri wants to say. she can feel the unspoken words with deafening clarity in how shuri behaves when riri is gearing up for a mission. in how she double, triple-checks every single blueprint and mission detail. her eyes are the loudest, almost deafening in their imploring,
please, don’t go, stay here with me
i can’t lose you too
but she never says them out loud. never gives voice to the truth that she would rather keep riri wrapped up in her forever, safe in the lab and far, far away from any inkling of danger. she never says them because she understands, just as riri does, that what they do isn’t a choice. she can’t choose to not rise up when Ironheart is called, just as shuri can’t turn her back on her own mantle.
so, instead they make each other a promise instead, a reminder if you will
come back to me , says one
i will, replies the other
except this time, riri doesn’t reply. she can’t.
˚₊‧꒰ა ☆ ໒꒱ ‧₊˚
riri blinks to awareness and realizes she’s surrounded by activity. she’s laying on a bed in the Medical Bay, and the flurry around her is the doctors performing tests. she’s being poked, prodded and above her is a hologram displaying most of her vitals. everything seems to be fine, minus the fact that she passed out while hurtling through the sky that is.
how she’s still alive is a mystery but she pushes that thought aside as she makes out shuri’s voice through the buzz around her. she speaks of vitals and brain activity and time frames while riri can feel her fingers drifting across her face in gentle sweeps. she’d know those hands anywhere, warm and elegant.
her fingers brush across riri’s cheekbone, right along what riri strongly suspects is a blooming bruise.
“baby,” shuri whispers. quiet enough that no one but riri hears her.
riri’s eyes snap up to see shuri’s face scrunching, like she doesn't understand an equation, and her eyes peel off the hologram, searching.
a sudden shift behind her gaze, a deep inhale.
you came back to me
her brows jump. she freezes like t’challa, as her mouth opens, but nothing comes out.
one of the doctors senses that shuri is too overwhelmed to speak so they take over. they smile, and offer medical details that slip through riri’s mind like sand, and all the while shuri stands to the side, watching, waiting. like she’s still processing the fact that riri is alive and mostly well.
shuri's watching her with some slow-dawning idea, and then she's pushing off the wall, coming to whisper in the ear of the doctor that had been explaining the complications in riri’s mission and how lucky she is to have avoided brain trauma. they stop mid-sentence, turn to depart and motion for the other medical personnel to exit as well, leaving the two women alone.
riri sits up, anxious in a way she can’t explain. she wants to reassure shuri that she’s fine, that everything’s okay. she wants to wipe that foreign, frozen look off her face forever, but she can barely get a word out before shuri descends on her.
shuri’s lips are warm, and strong. she presses her back against the arm of the bed. riri moans into her mouth when her hand finds her breast.
she gasps, pulling back from her and looking into her eyes. "shuri"
shuri stares down at her, panting, coming back to herself. "I… Riri… you never responded.. I- I thought-" she blinks, and starts to back up. "we shouldn't be— you were literally just unconscious"
riri grabs her neck, pulling her back. shuri kisses her soundly, moving her lips in ways riri was yet to experience. she pulls her camisole up, and over her head. riri hadn’t even noticed that she’s been stripped of her suit, and is only in the tactical gear she wore beneath. shuri starts sucking at her skin as she makes the connection, successfully diverting her attention.
“I need you,” shuri murmurs, and kisses her on the mouth again.
riri gasps as she kicks her knees apart and steps inside. her tongue sweeps inside her mouth as her hands cup her cheeks. angling her head, she tries to keep up with the Panther but finds herself just holding on for dear life instead.
shuri’s hands drift down from her jaw to her collarbones, and then slide to the tops of her breasts. her thumbs drag over her nipples, and riri groans against her mouth.
shuri fills her palms with her breasts, cupping and squeezing. riri lets the pleasure overtake her as small sounds escape from her throat. shuri moves her mouth to her neck again, sucking bruises into her skin.
“oh, shuri,” she moans, as both of her thumbs are flicking her nipples, “oh…”
one of shuri’s hands drops down to her bottoms, and she whispers against her neck, “can I?”
riri nods, dropping her head back so she can continue kissing her neck. with one hand on her breast, pinching her nipple softly, and one hand sliding directly into her underwear, shuri latches her mouth onto her pulse again. riri lets out a low moan, and suddenly remembers the other doctors who probably aren’t too far away.
“do you want them to hear us, riri?” shuri rasps against her ear. “would you love that?”
riri bites her lip, trying to keep from making another sound as her fingers slide between her folds.
“they’ve already seen me have several panic attacks today over you. they already know what you mean to me. do you also want them to know how wet you are for me?”
riri grips her shoulders, holding her breath as she finds her clit expertly. “shuri—”
“you’ll have to be quiet as I make you come apart, baby. and I know you’re not…”
riri gasps, there’s an almost raw desperation to shuri’s movements.
“i don’t know what i would do if i ever lost you, my love. if you never came back to me”
shuri pulls back and forces her to meet her eyes. her fingers circle her clit roughly, and riri feels herself tightening, spinning closer and closer.
“i—i’m—”
shuri slips her fingers down, and slides one—then two inside of her. her eyes roll back.
“come on my fingers, riri. let them hear it.”
riri slaps her hand over her mouth and squeezes her lips shut. and just as the spasms start, shuri rips her hand away, forcing the sound from her.
she gasps and groans, holding tightly to her release as shuri drags it out of her. and just as she’s catching her breath she kisses her until she loses it again.
both of shuri’s hands are still on her waist, her thumbs brushing across her belly as her lips move over riri’s until she’s lazy with it all.
riri’s fingertips trail down until they rest on the opening of her trousers. she should ask her to take her to their room. she should listen to see if anyone else is aware of them. she should, at the very least, try to be quieter.
instead she tugs at shuri’s zipper, sliding it down with a sharp click. shuri sighs into her mouth, something low and needy. then one of her hands slides back up to her breast, rubbing slow soothing circles around the tight bud of her nipple. riri feels each pass like an electric shock directly to her clit.
riri reaches into her lover’s trousers, and her toes curl at the wetness she feels. shuri is hot and slick beneath her, and her mouth waters at the thought.
“shuri…please.”
shuri brushes her hands away, tugging her bottoms over her hips, down her legs, and off. then she fully lifts her, and places her closer to the edge of the bed. cold air hits her cunt as she pushes her knees wide.
“lay back”
riri wants to argue. she wants to touch shuri as well, confirm for herself that she’s there, that she’s real.
“i need this,” shuri whispers, and then her mouth presses forward and she kisses her cunt.
riri slaps her hands over her mouth, muffling her surprised gasp. shuri grabs her right ankle and brings her foot up, opening her up. when she does the same with her left, she gives in and lays back.
“i want to see you drip on this bed” she mumbles against her thigh. “i want to come back and smell you here tomorrow.”
riri squeezes her eyes shut, unable to process the filthy things she’s saying. shuri has such a dirty mouth when lust consumes her. she bites down on her palm as the Queen leans forward and laps at her. a satisfied moan vibrates from shuri’s lips to her clit, and she knows this won’t take long.
“baby, please don’t tease”
her tongue starts exploring her, dragging long, slow licks from her entrance to her clit. her palms press her thighs fully open, and riri has to arch her low back to get where shuri wants her.
“that’s it, sthandwa,” she says, voice dark “let me taste it.”
riri’s heels lift as she rubs one finger around her entrance, circles upon circles, until she knows she’s dripping, just like shuri wanted her to. her lips press small kisses to her clit, applying barely any pressure, but just enough of a reminder.
her thighs are slick and her muscles tight. “shuri, i need more. please.”
riri’s taste is incredible. something shuri can dine on forever. she lets her tongue swipe through her over and over, barely touching her clit. her hips start moving, and she holds them down. her tongue dips low and presses inside of her, and she lets out a deep sigh, curling her knee up to her ear.
shuri presses her lips to her clit, kissing and licking. riri gasps on high notes and takes shaking quick breaths until finally her lips close and she sucks until her lover screams. riri’s hips jerk against her face, orgasm washing over her, and her hands tear at her hair. shuri sucks at her clit until she finally starts to push her off of her. the Black Panther stands up, staring down at her handiwork.
“mine,” she whispers, stroking riri’s cheekbone again.
a/n: I wasn’t gonna post today but I’d drafted this up!
Shuri has never been the biggest fan of phones. They’re not very convenient, limited as well. The most use she’s found for it is Google searches and why do that when she has her own AI?
But she somehow found herself waiting for her phone to ring. She’s in her lab, all alone, it’s too late for anyone but her to be in here anyway.
Her phone finally vibrates against her metal desk and she picks it up immediately. She smiles much wider than she should at the stupid screen. They’ve been keeping in contact for the past year, ever since Riri was sent back to MIT after the war. She and Riri call once a month if they’re both lucky. And today happens to be their lucky day.
“Wassup, Shuri.” Riri smiles, she looks as beautiful as ever, Shuri thinks. Her thick hair is pulled back into a sleek bun that Shuri has yet to see her in until right now. Her face is clear with subtle eye bags beneath them that Shuri has noticed have been beginning to worsen.
She’s got her phone on the wall behind her desk and is dressed in an oversized sweater that allows the fabric to slip a little past her shoulders.
“Hey,” Shuri smiles as she watches the scientist work diligently on a worksheet of some sort. She has this gentle crease in between her brows when she’s focused, Shuri wants to tell her she thinks it’s adorable but she holds herself back.
“Sorry for not calling you last month, I’ve been real busy.” Riri apologizes quickly, looking up momentarily to make sure Shuri understands what she is saying.
“It’s fine, I was busy too.” It’s not a lie. She was very busy but she had to make sure to clear her schedule on the day they were supposed to call and her heart sank a little when she was sent a text instead.
“How are you? I know the Royal duties are a lot. But you’re doing okay, right? You would tell me if you weren’t, right?” Riri asks while
keeping her eyes on her assignment.
Truth is, having the throne is not as bad as Shuri had imagined. She barely has time to do things she’s like but she knows it’s what her mother and father would want for her, what her brother would want for her. It’s what her people need. That’s what keeps her going.
“I’m okay,” Shuri honestly says. She wishes she could spend the rest of her days watching Riri, being with her makes her feel like herself. Not like she’s a queen or just royalty but like she’s Shuri and nothing else.
“I’m glad.”
“And you? I hope you’ve been enjoying yourself on campus.”
“I went to a party last week, shit was ass. I don’t drink like that so it wasn’t really my thing. I do wish I was in Wakanda using your cool ass tech.” Riri mentions, hearing a small laugh escape Shuri’s mouth.
“Mhm, I bet. How’s the progress on your suit?”
“Good, slow but it’s moving,” Riri admits, finally putting her pencil down and giving Shuri her full attention. It almost makes the Royal nervous.
“You lookin’ a lil tired these days, you been sleeping?” Riri questions. She herself knows how much time equations and models can take to make, as a scientist they understand that they don’t get much sleep but it doesn’t stop them from being concerned for each other.
“M’fine, I just have long hours of training and building.” Shuri sighs as a soft yawn sneaks its way out of her mouth.
“Mhm, yeah. You really gotta start taking your own advice, Princess.” Riri says with some sass in her tone. Shuri doesn’t have a rebuttal instead she chuckles because she’s afraid that if she says anything it won’t come out coherent.
She isn’t sure if it’s the rasp in Riri’s voice or the title. It’s not very accurate since she’s been crowned Queen but since Riri’s known her, it’s stuck to her like glue. Just like Riri has.
She pops up in the royal’s brain involuntarily, when she sleeps, and when she eats. It’s all consuming but a part of her doesn’t mind at all and the other is trying to fight it because, at the end of the day, they’re just friends.
“Listen, I’ll call you tomorrow, okay? You-“ Riri begins.
“But we just-“
“No, I can tell you need sleep. I want you to talk to me when you’re full of energy and got some comebacks ‘cause this ain’t the Shuri I know.”
“You’re irritating.”
“Whatever…g’night, Princess. Sleep tight.”
“Goodnight.”
Riri hangs up and the only thing Shuri can think about is her friend. She knows now that she’ll play the long game. And a part of her, a rather big part of her doesn’t mind at all.
After months of starting and stopping this story, here’s the long awaited first part. 🥰
Summary: Reader decides to release a freestyle that breaks the internet. Her first single ever, produced on her own. Many people aren't thrilled with her because she's too pretty, too thick and too rowdy. Nonsense reasons to hate her because she's herself and authentic. Shuri and Riri the hottest couple and producing duo decide to collaborate with reader. Business and pleasure never hit so good.
Trigger: Angst, Drama, Toxicity, Fighting, Cheating, Drugs and Alcohol use.
"Your song is the talk of the internet." Maya says, as you lounge on the sofa in a pair of panties and a cropped tee. You suck on your cherry sweetie as you watch her staring at the comments on her phone.
"I was just talking shit..." You giggle, licking your lips to suck up the flavor.
"Either way, you are talented and now everyone knows what I've always known." Maya smiles, locking her phone and tossing it on the coffee table.
"Yeah?" You toy with the sweetie in your mouth, looking at her pulling her locs into a loose ponytail.
"Co'mere." She says, her southern accent making your insides warm.
"Yuh need fi tawp arrass mi." (You need to stop harassing me) You laugh, as she heads to the kitchen sink to wash her hands. You were fronting, you both knew that as she dried her hands and stalked towards you.
You watched as her hips swayed and you bit your lip. Maya was attractive, beautiful, sweet and so kind. That combination was deadly for you, as you fell harder for her daily.
"Move nuh..." You try to keep a straight face as she straddles you.
"I missed you." Maya pouts, looking at you with her big doe eyes. You kissed her, giving her little pecks.
"Ah lie yuh ah tell!" (You're lying) You laugh, you'd been by her side for every show. While you both had not addressed your relationship publicly. You were always there for her in private, keeping pda to a minimum. As far as anyone knew you were close friends.
You were Bisexual, Out and Proud. However, Maya was still in the closet. You were her first woman relationship and experience. Her label made it clear that her sexuality was a huge sell for her career.
And it was true to a point. Most of her fans were die hard heterosexual women and men. While she had fans a part of the lgbt, her main supporters were the Hetero's.
"Well I missed you today..." She frowns and you roll your eyes before giving her another kiss. She grabs the sweetie from your hand and brings it to her lips and sucks on it. You watch as her tongue swirls around the sweetie, and your core clenched at the way she eyed you.
"Maya, yuh nah get nun ah mi pumpum." (You're not getting any of my pussy) You try to be serious. She strapped you to the point your vagina was sore. You'd banned her for the next few days until you were good to go.
"Baby..." She smirks, placing the sweetie in your glass of water before placing a kiss on your neck.
"No, Maya." You shook your head.
"Baby please...." She begs, sucking on that sweet spot in the juncture of your neck.
"May---" You moan out as she sucks harder, your head falling to the side to give her more access.
"That's it, baby." She coos, licking over the spot she'd sucked on.
"I don't like yuh..." You mutter as she pinches your nipples through the cropped tee. You inhale sharply as she leans down to bite one of your nipples.
"Yes, you do." She grins, before helping you lay on the sofa flat and pulling off the tee and panties. "Don't worry, I just wanna eat it..."
Your body twitches as she settles between your legs and licks your sore pussy from top to bottom. The little minx dipping her tongue inside your hole and swiping your juices with her tongue before going back to your clit to suck.
"Fuck..." You cry out.
-
A few days after, you and Maya are out at a club. She has her hands wrapped around you, as the two of you dance to the music. She's tipsy and being touchy feely. You try several times to remove her hands from your ass to no avail.
"Babes." You whisper in her ear. "Stop it."
"I wanna get drunk and nastyyyyyy." She sings, as she grinds against you. You frown as she slides a hand under your skirt.
"Bill.. Maya!" (chill) You whisper harshly.
"Baby... why don't you want me to get drunk and nasty?" She whines, wrapping her arms around your neck and pouting. Fuck! You hated when she gave you that look.
"Babes, I would love that but right now isn't the time for that." You sigh. You help her to sit on the lounger in your section. You were being paid to perform your song and Maya was tipsy. She'd had two drinks or so you both thought. The bartender had given her a double shot of tequila in her margaritas. Something that pissed you off because neither one of you asked for a double.
"Gwan guh duh yuh ting, mi wih geh ah yiy pon har." (Go do your thing, I'll watch her) Don assures, and sits beside her as someone calls you to head backstage. You shifted from foot to foot, not wanting to leave her like that but you knew your brother would protect her like his own.
"Just get her some water please." You plead before being led back stage. As you walked through the busy and packed club people screamed and took pictures and videos.
You felt anxious as you got ready to perform. Your heart was racing as you peeked out at the packed club, and looked for Maya in your section. She was eying you with her bedroom eyes, as you looked her over.
"Introducing Twinkle!" The announcer called, and you walked on the small stage. There was over 400 people, the club was packed to capacity with people waiting outside to have a chance at coming in.
"Wah Gwaan!" (What's up!) You shouted, to which everyone greeted you with shouting. "Mi know seh unnuh caan mek a Likkle more noise!" (I know that ya'll can make more noise)
"Mi seh, WAH GWAAN!!" (I said, What's up!) You repeated even louder, watching as the crowd grew louder. "Mek sure unnuh ah video mi and tag mi. Best videos ah guh get reposted." (Make sure ya'll are recording me, best videos will be reposted)
"So, This song is dedicated to all of the gyals weh nuh know fi shut dem tinkin mouth. Fuck You." (Girls that don't know to shut their stinking mouth)
Camera's all start flashing on you, as everyone angles their phones to record you. You feel a rush of excitement and happiness fill you as the music starts. You do your thing, hyping up the crowd. You wine to the beat, getting into a squat and emphasizing the words of the song.
"Which Gyal, can seh she stress me out? That a fuckin clown! Cuz if a gyal or man seh him bruck she haffe do without... And if she screw she get a box pon har dutty mouth. But this can't real, AUDACITY MUSS BOMBOCLAAT FREE!" You sing, as everyone's screaming the words.
Everyone's singing along and you feel like you're on cloud nine. It's only been a week since the song was released and yet everyone knows the words. As you finish the song, you see Maya staring at you with a smile as she mouths dirty words at you.
As you finish and stop to take a few selfies, pictures and videos you're stopped by a girl with a messy bun at the top of her head. You raise a brow as she's blocking you.
"You're very talented." She says, her eyes taking you in. You raise a brow.
"Thanks."
"Is this a one hit wonder situation or do you plan to take music serious?" She asks and you narrow your eyes at her. "No shade, I just think you could really blow up the music scene and it'd be shit if you were only just dropping this song."
"I mean... I'm not sure. The song was really just me talking shit. I've never really thought about taking music seriously. I highly doubt people really wanna hear what I'd have to say..." You shrug. You liked singing but didn't think you'd make it as a celebrity. You had no filter, were outspoken and did as you pleased for the most part.
"And what is it you have to say?" She asks, seductively.
"I--"
"What a small world!" Maya says in her 'I don't like this bitch' tone. She was a sweetheart but when she was tipsy or drunk, the rowdy rebel came out.
"Maya? Hey..." The girl smiles, you could see the feeling was mutual. Your eyes swung between the two.
"Rina right?" Maya asks, stepping closer to you until your arms touched.
"Rianna, but I prefer Riri." The girl-Riri corrects her.
"Hmmmmm, well Rina it was soooo good seeing you!" Maya smiles a devious smile, while taking your hand and 'accidentally' bumping Riri.
"Sorry...." You call out as Maya leads you towards your section.
"How could you stand there and let her eye fuck you like that!" Maya hisses, turning to face you once you'd gotten to your section.
"B--"
"You know I don't like that hoe!" She grumbles, crossing her arms over her chest.
"Riri???" You were confused.
"That midget bitch said my debut album was trash in an interview! Yes Riri!" She was pissed. You realized exactly who Riri was. While Maya had never said her name she would call her midget bitch as she ranted about her shit talking her album.
"First we were just talking about music... she wanted to know if I was releasing more." You explain, trying to calm the little tipsy soldier.
"Sure she did..." Maya huffs. "That hating hoe wouldn't know good music if it was written out for her."
"Wow...." You scoff.
"Baby--" Maya realized how that was taken and instantly moves to grab you.
"You should go back to your place tonight." You inform her before turning your back and heading for the main floor to turn up with everyone around you.
The rest of the night is a blur. You drunk like a fish, partying with your brother, and a few friends. You could see Maya out of the corner of your eye watching you but you ignored her.
Her words hurt. You thought she was your biggest supporter. You knew she was angry and she might not have meant it how it came out but you still were hurt. Her hatred for someone else came before you, she hadn't even said how your first performance was or congratulated you.
As the night went on, Riri approached you again this time with another girl who was tall and equally as attractive as Riri. She introduced herself as Shuri Udaku. You didn't live under a rock. You knew the Udaku name. That family had a hand in everything from the music industry, healthcare, universities, car manufacturing, real estate and more. They were filthy rich. You remembered hearing about T'Chaka and T'Challa's deaths two years before. They'd died in a car crash.
The duo were the hottest producers out as you'd been told. They were very selective of who they worked with and they wanted to work with you. At first you were hesitant. Riri had really hurt Maya's feelings but the more the three of you talked. The more they convinced you to at least think about meeting up with them in their studio.
-
The very next day, Maya showed up with bouquet upon bouquet of flowers and your favorite meal from a nearby restaurant. As the two of you talked, you had already let it go. As the two of you ate, you decided to bring up Shuri and Riri's offer.
"What would you think of me working with Shuri and Riri?" You say, as you sat on Maya's lap.
You could feel her tense underneath you. You'd hoped she could be impartial considering you were nothing but supportive with her career.
"They belong to our rival label..." She clears her throat.
"Your label." You correct her.
"Baby they'd sign you in a heartbeat--"
"The homophobes that are forcing you to stay quiet about our relationship? I would never align myself with that label..." You couldn't believe she thought that would be an option.
"Why Udaku Records though?" She frowns.
"I looked into it. Their label has a high success rate. Shuri and Riri's songs they produced are on our playlists. They've produced nothing but charters. Not to mention the artists signed to them all have won grammy's." You had already made up your mind. You knew they could help you at the very least release another song or two that would remove the one hit wonder stigma you were sure to receive.
"It sounds as though you've already made up your mind." Maya mumbles, and you turn in her lap to face her.
"Don't be like that babes." You plead. "I support you in everything even when I don't agree. I just want the same from you... I know you don't like Riri, and you don't have to. I just need you to have my back.."
"Fine..." She grumbles.
"Thank you! Thank you, thank you!" You squeal, hugging her.
"Now... what were you saying last night about wanting to get nasty?" You remind her, biting your bottom lip.
-
After an eventful day and night with Maya. You wake up an hour after your alarm was supposed to have sounded, and realize you overslept. You groan, before sliding out from under Maya.
I'm running a little late, I should be there in an hour. - Jay 10:50 am.
You rush through your shower and hygiene routine, before pulling on a fitted leggings and cropped long sleeve set.
(Your outfit)
The moment you make it to Shuri and Riri's studio it's 12 exactly and you enter to see the two seated by the soundboard, talking amongst themselves.
"I see punctuality isn't your thing." Shuri smirks, as her eyes roam over you. Riri snorts, rolling her eyes as she gets up to greet you.
"Ypree." (What's up) You greet her.
"Ypree?" She repeats, her brows furrowing. You giggle, before taking your coat off and hanging it over the arm of one of the sofa's in the studio.
"It mean's what's up, what's good, what's going on." You explain, watching as she nods before smiling.
"Ypree." She chuckles. "So, what do you see yourself releasing now? What's next?"
You bite your lip, You had quite a few songs you'd written up and some beats you'd messed with in your head but nothing concrete. Just lyrics and melodies you hummed into your phones microphone to save your thoughts.
"I sort of have a song that's been in my mind for a little bit." You admit, staring at the two of them. "Nothing too crazy, just something that's been haunting me for a while now. A melody I can't stop thinking about."
You hum the sound you had in your head. You feel slightly nervous, not that you ever cared what anyone had to say about you but the duo in front of you has you rethinking your material.
You play the voice recording you'd made, singing the lyrics here and there while humming the melody. Listening to it, you felt a peace come over you. There was something about the melody that just spoke to you, whilst the lyrics were true to you. No one could have your pussy unless you deemed it, and your pussy wasn't free.
"Get in the booth." Shuri demanded, as an idea struck her. She leaned over to whisper in Riri's ears before Riri grabbed her phone to text someone. As you settle into the booth, you place the headphones over your ears.
"Let's go over those lyrics." Shuri said, she'd worked with quite a few Jamaican artists so Patois wasn't new to her, she understood a great deal of it. You have a hook and a chorus, we just need to make it a full song.
"You wa my nana, Nah get none. Pretty gyal love money, run some funds. Want my punana, cya get none. Bad gyal love money, send dat come." You sing, into the mic. You focus all your effort into giving the seductive energy of the song.
"You free fi carry me out, give me money and buy me stuff. That's about it, you nah go cuff, get it out yuh mind, you n'ave a luck. Ay, you coulda wish pon all the stars, But dah one yah nah fall fi you. That's about it, we nah go fuck, get it outta yuh head, you n'ave no luck." You sing the chorus. "Call it weh you want, I don't give one fuck what you think about me. Some say the best things in life free, but dem nah chat 'bout my pussy. Call it weh you want, If you don't agree then I think it's best you lowe me. No boy or gyal can clown me, good ting a my grandma grow me"
"Alright, so between the first part and the chorus based on the lyrics and the vibe of the song it's safe to say you're telling whoever is trying to get at you that you're not interested. You're way too good for them and your pussy is worth more." Shuri explains. She tilts her head to the side. "How about lyrics like 'You're stupid, don't flirt with me and I'm not interested."
You think over what she says before finding a way to incorporate what she suggested into the song.
"You must be stupid! Don't even flirt with me, what you doing? Me nuh interested, keep it pushing. Come outta mi face and give me some space, You likkle bit too nuff, yute, don't chat to me
A wah so? Don't make your friend dem gas you 'Cause this is a brand new moto, My front too good fi me pass." You feel giddy as you feel the song tying together.
You start from the beginning, adding the verse before the chorus and smile once you see both Shuri and Riri vibing to the lyrics.
"Alright for the next part, you want a shock factor that still flows with the rest of the lyrics. Something feisty that'll have everyone like yes!" Shuri insisted and you smirk, knowing exactly what to say.
"And I know this game too well, me know just mi legs dem you want spread. You nah get none so go to Hell, me rather lay down and finger myself. A win is a win, me a buss my nut 'Cause I'll be damned if I let you fuck. Look pon me den look pon you, A really must crack you siddung a spark up, yeah." You giggle at the look on Shuri and Riri's face as you sing the new part.
It doesn't take long before the whole song is formulated as far as the lyrics go. A few hours later, after you've recorded the song acapella a few times, and added in adlibs a few people come in. Riri introduces them as musicians.
Shuri explains her vision for the beat based on the melody you'd presented and everyone gets to work. The musicians set up their instruments. Shuri plays around with a beat she's formulated, and tells the musicians what keys and notes to play.
It takes a few tries before they're able to fit the vibe of the lyrics. Once the melody is mastered you feel excited, knowing that you made the right idea taking Riri and Shuri up on their offer. The instrumental is amazing.
You head back into the booth to record the song with the music now, and exude all of your sensual energy, as you emphasize the words. You do the explicit gestures of the song, sticking your tongue out, pointing your two fingers towards your pussy, and blowing kisses as a videographer records you singing the song.
Riri's mesmerized as she watches you exude confidence. You're seducing many of the people in the studio with barely any effort as you wink at a few people, clocking the fact that many of them can't stop staring at you.
"She's a star." Riri whispers to Shuri. They'd had a discussion before you'd arrived on their thoughts of signing you. Riri was certain you'd take the world by storm, she just had that instinct. Shuri agreed, your performance last night sold them. It was your first performance and you blew it out the waters.
For someone with no vocal coaching, no stage performance prepping and no team behind you. You were a natural. So many artists needed artist development whilst you seemed to have everything down pact out the gate.
It'd be a mistake to let you slip through their fingers.
"There's no doubt." Shuri agreed, watching you as you lost yourself in the music and lyrics.
"Go get N'Jadaka." Shuri ordered one of the musicians. The woman scurried off in a hurry. "Jay, one more time."
N'jadaka walked in just as you started the song over. His brows raised as he looked you over. He looked to Shuri and Riri before looking back at you.
"Damn..." He mumbled to himself, before crossing his hands over his chest and placing a hand under his chin.
He'd seen the recording of your performance, as well as heard the song on Spotify. He was certain that Udaku Records had to have you but this song... Your demeanor, your looks. Fuck, he could see the money signs that would surely follow you.
"Did she just?" He looked from you in shock to Shuri, chuckling to himself. You'd made the fingering gesture but pressed the same fingers to your lips with a wink his way as you finished the song.
"Jay, come here." Shuri called, beckoning you over as Riri started finalizing the song and perfecting it. "Jay, this is my cousin the head of the label. N'Jadaka."
"It's a pleasure to meet you, Jay." N'Jadaka smirks, shaking Jay's hand.
"The pleasure's all mine." You smile.
"I take it you enjoyed your session with Shuri and Riri?" He asks, nodding towards the soundboard.
"It was more than I'd of hoped for. Shuri seems to share my vision, she knew exactly where I wanted this song to go." You admit. You'd had hopes for this session but it far surpassed any of them.
"Does that mean you'd be interested in signing onto Udaku Records?" N'Jadaka coyly asks.
"A label offer with just a barely week old song?" You laugh, thinking he's joking.
"We can talk about it tomorrow morning if that works for you?" He suggests. "It'll give you time to hire legal representation to represent you--"
"I don't need anyone representing me. I know how to look after myself, I've been doing it all my life." Your accent was strong there. You felt passionately about not trusting a soul. People were wicked if you gave them the opportunity.
"Just send me the paperwork and i'll look over it." You shrugged. "I'd like two days to fully study and scrutinize everything. Then I'll make any amendments and we'll negotiate."
"A woman that knows what she wants is a woman to watch." N'Jadaka grins, liking the energy you had.
"Start teasing the song on your socials." N'jadaka tells you. "By the end of the week the contract will be signed and we can release the song friday at midnight."
"It will be signed?" You raised a brow.
"It will be." He winks, before turning and walking out.
"Let me have your email, so I can forward everything to my cousin." Shuri suggests. You waste no time giving her your contact information.
By the time everything's done, it's 1 in the morning and you’re starving. Shuri and Riri suggest they take out you to get some food in you since they’ve worked you hard.
-
“Can I ask you a question?” Riri asks. They settled on a 24 hour Jamaican restaurant that’s a popular hotspot. You all are seated in the back away from people. Shuri’s bodyguards Okoye and Ayo are seated at the closest table.
“Go ahead.” You tilt your head watching as she licks her lips before responding.
“What’s with you and Maya?” Riri’s brows are raised and her lips are pouty as she stares at you. “She’s pretty territorial of you.”
“We’re cool. She’s a great friend.” You shrug, giving nothing away.
“Friend.” Shuri laughs, as she looks at you in a ‘yeah right’ kind of way.
“What’s all the drama about her album being trash?” You question, wanting to know what exactly she said and why.
“Never said that.” Riri snorted. “I said her persona was trash. That her music was lacking substance and everything about her was forced. Her music is decent however it’s nothing to win awards over nor is it anything that’ll last long term. She leans on her sex appeal like a crutch. People pay more attention to her looks than the music.”
You but your lip to refrain from saying something slick in Maya’s defense. You’d said something similar to Maya. You loved that she was confident and showed off her body, that was her God given right. However you hated that she’d stopped being herself along the way. Her music was no longer full of meaning, it was just made to be TikTok songs and you hated that considering how talented she was.
You knew her label was pushing her to act how she was and to release the music she’d released. ‘Have Mercy’ was a good song, one of her biggest and you loved it yet you hated the fact that people only knew her for her sex appeal or ‘hot girl’ music.
No one really knew the girl you knew. The one that song love ballads, and really got deep and under your skin with her lyrics and beats.
“Have you heard her old material?” You settle on asking.
“I have which is why I feel as though she’s doing herself a disservice with the forced sexual appeal route she’s on.” Riri looked you in the eyes. “You naturally have that sex appeal that speaks for itself, then when you add your music it flows. I’m not saying she shouldn’t lean into her sexuality but there’s a huge difference between leaning into and leaning onto.”
“Hi, hello. I don’t haav all day suh tell me wah huh want.” (I don’t have all day so tell me what you want) The waitress says and you look her up and down to ensure she’s talking to the right table. You’d seen her mugging you from the moment you walked in.
“Ah coulda neva mi yuh ah talk…” (You couldn’t be talking to me) You kissed your teeth, before mugging her right back.
“My gurl, annuh huh mi ah look pon?” (My girl, isn’t it you I’m looking at?) She retorts in a similar tone and you roll your tongue over your cheek and chuckle to yourself.
“Mind how mi dash weh di likkle wata pon yuh.” (Be careful I don’t throw this water on you.) You reply looking her up and down.
“Alrite, Alrite. Bill nuh.” (Alright, Alright. Chill) Shuri says in patois and you swallow as you feel your core moisten.
“Mek we get tree orders of curry goat, white rice and provisions. And tree Lola champagnes, please miss.” (Can we have three orders…) Shuri continues and you internally fan yourself off.
“Dat ah guh be mi pleasure, ma’am.” The waitress giggles, calming. You kiss your teeth and roll your eyes.
“Da bitch deh bright and outta audah!” (That bitch is rude and out of order) You hiss as she walks away after writing the order down. You can tell by the way that she tended she hears you but ignores you.
“You sound so hot when you talk patois.” Riri giggles, staring at you. “The way you talk and your accent…”
“Mi? Yer gurlfriend tek eh cake wid har patois. Mi wouldn’t even know seh she annuh Yaadie.” (Me? Your girlfriend takes the cake with her patois. I wouldn’t even know that she wasn’t a true Jamaican.)
“I know enough to get by.” Shuri smiles. You raise a brow before shaking your head.
“You dated someone who spoke patois. You couldn’t have gained that accent any other way unless you grew up around it.” You insist.
“Is that so?” Shuri smirks.
“Google is free.” Riri chuckles.
“I don’t care that much.” You wink, before pulling your phone out and taking it off airplane mode. You see a shit ton of texts and calls from Maya. Rather than read the messages you call her.
“Where are you?!” You hear the moment she answers the call.
“Hi, how are you? I missed you.” You say, snorting.
“Jay, I’m not playing it’s almost 2 in the morning. No text or anything. What the hell?” Maya snaps and you sign.
“You knew I went to the studio, I messaged you earlier and updated you.” You watch as the duo across from you stare intently at you.
These bitches are nosy…. But so am I.
“That was 8 hours ago. You should have told me you were staying later.” Maya huffs.
“Babes, you know that I was at the studio. You know how that goes. I’ve never hounded you about that because I know when you’re focused on your music, you’re locked in.” You explain.
“I update you throughout my day and when I can’t, I do it at my first opportunity.” Maya sniffles and you know she’s crying. She’s very sensitive.
“I’m sorry baby. I should have updated you when I realized I was going to be out longer.” You felt slightly guilty. You hated when she cried.
“I’m grabbing food right now, why don’t I pick you up something and come over?” You suggest.
“We’re not friends.” She says softly, and you can tell she’s pouting.
“What do you want, babes?” You ask.
“Hmmm. Sweet potato fries and the vegan nuggets from that vegan spot by Jamaica House.” She tells you, and you chuckle realizing she just checked your location.
“Ok, baby. Give me an hour.” You tell her, yawning.
“I’m at your place.” Maya informs you and you bite your lip realizing she’d most likely went straight there from her rehearsals meaning she’d been waiting for you there for hours.
“I’m sorry.” You apologize, knowing that was a shitty feeling.
“You’ll feel sorry when you realize what you missed out on.” Maya giggled before hanging up.
A picture message comes in and you press it and narrow your eyes when you see her posing in your bathroom.
A text back would have gotten you this 💋 - Maya 1:47 am
You take a deep breath, and release it. She knew better than to play on your phone like that. You loved the image before sending an emoji that conveyed your message.
👿 - You 1:49 am
“Do you mind if I leave, we can have a make up lunch ?” You ask, not wanting to be rude. Maya knew how to get your ass home, and it was working.
“Yeah, no problem mama.” Riri smiles, but you could see something in her eyes. You could tell she was annoyed.
“We’ll see you later.” Shuri nods.
And just like that you were out. Your food and Maya’s food forgotten as you sped to your house.
-
“Ah, yuh haav nuff sense.” (You have common sense) You say, as you walk into your bedroom to see Maya fully naked on your bed with her legs spread, fingering herself and moaning out.
“Hi, baby.” Maya grins, happy with herself.
“Uh, uhhh.” You shake your head stripping down to your thong. “You know how I want you.”
She quickly flips over, getting onto her hands and knees. You slap her ass hard, watching it shake. You smirk as she hisses. You get behind her and place your tongue in her ass, feeling her shiver as you lap at the rosebud.
“F..fuck… Jay.” She groans as you move your tongue sinfully slow. You place your fingers at her pussy and moan into her ass as you feel the hot, soaked core. She’s dripping onto your fingers as you drag her wetness up to your tongue before shoving them into her pussy.
“Jay….” Maya moans out. But you continue fingering her as you lick her ass, moaning as your free hand massages her ass cheek.
“Baby…” She whines as you add a third finger, and curl your fingers to hit that spongy spot that makes her cream every time.
The moment she’s about to cum you move away and slap her on the pussy, grinning as she clenches her thighs.
You move away to put on the strap that had you deliciously sore a few days ago. Once it’s secure you move back behind her and run the tip of the strap up and down her pussy.
You thrust in fully without warning, her pussy so wet it slides right in. You groan softly as you watch the way she takes the strap. Your hands gripping her hips, as you thrust into her.
“Fuck me back!” You demand, listening to her whimper. She does as you say and starts throwing it back, and you stop moving to watch her fuck herself on you. Your mouth waters as you watch the strap enter and exit her.
“Which gyal can seh she stress me out.” You mumble to yourself as you watch the way Maya relieves any stress you’d previously had.
-
Let me know what you guys thought of this part and if you want me to continue. I love hearing your feedback, it makes my day. Also let me know who wants a tag on the next part. 🤎
a/n: shuriri of course, back at it again with the sleepy time wlw
ao3 here
-
It started like it always did.
In the dark of the lab, Riri squinted at the tiny screen in front of her--she’s been re-reading this same report for the past twenty minutes with no success. Words and numbers were starting to blur together. Even with the brightness so low, the light was starting to make her nauseous.
It was moments like these she wished she wasn’t barred from tinkering with her own consciousness again. It’d be awfully convenient if she didn’t have to rely on her A.I and could just work all night--no need to worry about her body being silly.
Sadly her mom had thrown those plans out the window--literally. She even forced her to go outside, retrieve said plans. All so she could lecture her point-by-point about ethics and hubris or whatever.
God forbid she be happy.
Riri blinked hard, trying to refocus on the task at hand.
That’s when she felt it.
Something hard pressed into her cheek.
Riri turned, eyeing the offending granola bar and the attached hand like it was the devil itself.
Shuri pressed the snack into her cheek again,“Eat.”
“What?” Riri’s head was still processing the sudden appearance, a little dazed.
Only the safety light was on at this point, Riri was tucked away in some obscure corner desk trying to decipher the next step of her plans. She hadn’t really noticed--nor cared when everyone had left. Though she was faintly surprised to see she outlasted Shuri.
Shuri had changed her clothes out, now wearing a too-long tank-top and basketball shorts-- hair wrapped.
The Princess stood over Riri, other hand idly tapping the back of her chair unimpressed, “Eat--” She repeated, eyebrow arched, “Then get out of my lab.”
Riri scowled, something childish rearing in her head at the suggestion. She was grown. She would know if she was hungry so she didn’t need to be babied--
Riri’s stomach growled.
Impossibly loud.
Riri decided being human was overrated. She ignored Shuri’s triumphant grin as she snatched the granola bar. She stuffed it in her pocket half-heartedly grumbling her thanks.
“Great--now get out,” Shuri was annoyingly persistent, continuing to prod at Riri’s cheek.
“I’m busy--” Riri batted at her hands, annoyed.
“You’re a work-a-holic--there's a difference--” Another prod--this time to Riri’s forehead.
“Pot, kettle--” Riri shot back, twisting in her seat to grab the offending hand, “Don’t you stash pillows in here?”
Shuri hummed, not acknowledging the claim--hypocrite--eyes fixated on their hands.
Undeterred, Shuri slipped from Riri’s grip, interlocking their fingers together instead with a smug expression, “Doesn’t matter. My lab--my rules, so I’m kicking you out.” she reasoned, gently pulling the other girl along.
Riri’s breath hitched, her protests dying.
It seemed her whole body was determined to betray her today. Her words were gone, and her legs were content to follow as she let Shuri lead the way.
Her heart was the worst of them all, her chest warm--pleased at how Shuri’s hand felt in hers. Slim, soft against Riri’s calloused hands.
She fought back a grin of her own as they passed the guest rooms --Shuri didn’t even glance back, pulling her down the hall that led to the Royal family’s rooms instead.
She had only remembered sleeping in the guest room once or twice since her arrival in Wakanda. At first it was an accident--she fell asleep in Shuri’s room while waiting for them to find a book. Shuri didn’t bother waking her up--simply pulling the covers over her and climbing into the empty space beside her.
The pair never addressed it.
It seemed silly at this point.
Something about being trapped in an underwater lair, injured, and scared shitless chipped away at their boundaries quickly. And Namor was still too much of a threat to really talk about what happened to them yet.
Riri didn’t have to explain why she sometimes woke up gasping for air. Shuri didn’t have to explain why she didn’t want to sleep alone. Not yet.
Still--despite all that was unsaid, Shuri looked back every-so often. Those cautious, curious glances waiting for Riri to protest, to question, even if she never did--or would.
Riri stumbled after Shuri, a strange warmth settling between her throat and ribs. The door shut quietly behind them, her eyes adjusting to the dim light.
Shuri’s room was a repurposed observatory.
The walls were dark, high, and rounded. The shelves filled to the brim with books, papers, and plants that crawled high towards the concave sky-light. In the center of the room, there was a rounded bed, partially sunk into the floor. It was a mess of sheets, pillows, and blankets. Off to the side was a wide desk instead of a side-table. Its surface is covered with sticky-notes and small-scaled models of potential projects.
Shuri released her hand, immediately crawling into bed.
Riri frowned at the loss, shimmying out of her pants as she went to search the drawers. She finished her granola bar then undressed quickly. She pulled on a random large shirt and her bonnet before sliding under the blankets as well.
Shuri’s back was turned to her, breathing soft.
Restlessness pulled at Riri though, even as the warmth of the bed and the weight of the day finally settled over her. It was hard to step away--to make her brain stop even if she was hardly getting shit done.
Riri yawned, shifting on her side in an attempt to get more comfortable. Her eyes flicked from the slow blinking stars above, to the soft dip of Shuri’s neck--to the space in between them.
They did this every night and yet--she was nervous. Just a bit.
Riri’s fingers traced patterns in the sheets “...Shuri?”
A moment--then Shuri turned around. She always does. Eyes dark, shining, and narrowed in on Riri entirely. It was easy to forget with all the bustling in the lab, how intense her attention was when you had it. As if the whole world was narrowed down to you.
The bed creaked as Riri was pulled into her arms. Hands slid down her shoulders and settled on the small of her back.
Riri liked the weight against her--skin against skin. She liked whatever this was and her body finally started to succumb to sleep.
When morning came, something new came with it.
“...Riri?”
Riri’s body was heavy and warm with sleep. She groaned softly, eyes fluttering shut--threatening to pull her back under.
Sunlight filtered through the partially-shut shutters. Shallow strips of honeyed light flickering across the stretching plants and dark walls.
“...Riri…?”
Riri’s eyes fluttered again with great effort. Her face pressed against pillows and legs comfortably tangled.
Shuri stared down at her, head propped up by her arm as she watched the other fight sleep. She had been up for a while now to be honest, unwilling to unhook Riri’s legs from around her waist, but, “I have to go get ready for a meeting,” she continued, voice low as she nudged Riri gently.
“Gross,” Riri muttered, nose curling at the thought.
“Mhm,” Shuri agreed, tracing the curve of Riri’s thigh-- her shirt bunching around the swell of their hips, “I’ll be back,” she promised, pulling away as she crawled out of bed.
Riri frowned at the loss, hands wearily trying to follow.
Shuri looked back, laughing breathlessly as she caught one of the wandering hands in hers. She watched the half-sleeping girl, tracing circles in her hand as she thought.
Dark, shining eyes narrowed in on Riri, Riri’s hand and the space in between.
Before she could second-guess herself, Shuri pressed a chaste kiss to Riri’s hand, then let it go. Another pause. Shuri leaned down further and pressed another kiss to Riri’s forehead.
Riri sighed, briefly appeased as Shuri pulled the blankets up around her shoulders before silently stepping away to get ready.
Riri listened to them get ready, thoughts drifting sluggish as she wondered.
She wondered how long the meeting would take, where Wakanda gets their blankets made because she was honestly in heaven, and if Shuri’s lips would nice against her--
For a genius, it took Riri entirely too long to realize.
All at once, sleep left her.
Riri’s eyes shot open, her heart in her throat. She sat up confused--her world shifting ever so slightly to make sense of whatever this just became. They never talked about it--she thought they never would. But at that moment the questions became too big to bear. Riri was a scientist at heart. She needed to know why.
Shuri was already gone.
Riri flopped back into bed with a groan, but sleep wouldn’t claim her again.
Lost. @undercover-introvert - Tumblr Blog | Tumgag
