by La Jill Hunt
“And will cuss folks out who try it.” Chase snapped her fingers.
“Okay, we gotta work on that part,” Asha said.
“True,” Devyn sighed. “I’ll be back.”
“Dev, you all right?” Asha questioned. Devyn walked out the door without answering. Asha looked at Chase, “What’s that about?”
“I don’t know. She’s definitely still processing everything that’s happened. You know how Dev can get,” Chase told her.
“I know the feeling. It’s a lot.” Asha sat in one of the empty chairs.
“Did you and Sulky talk about his spawn popping up with her friends?” Chase plopped into the chair directly beside Asha, despite there being at least ten other empty chairs in the room.
“Yes, Sully and I did,” Asha corrected her. “You know her version of what happened differed from the truth. But I handled it. I’m not really concerned about either of them. I have more important stuff to deal with.”
“Facts. Ain’t nobody got time for Salty or his kid,” Chase declared, then became serious. “I’m glad Journi stood up for herself, but it sucks that they put in all this work, and she won’t compete. It would’ve been cool to see the fruits of her labor. Know what I mean? That also might be why Dev is a little upset. Imagine how impactful it would’ve been to see her get a crown.”
Asha looked over at Chase with her legs folded under her and her auburn braids hanging from one side of the colorful scarf tied on her head. She always reminded Asha of Denise Huxtable from The Cosby Show. Beautiful, artistic, often clueless, but she would have brief moments of brilliance now and then.
“You are absolutely right,” Asha said. Devyn and the girls deserved a big finish. Now, all she had to do was figure out how to make it happen.
Chapter 25
Devyn
It had been two weeks since the launch, and Devyn still hadn’t seen or talked to Nigel. Her calls and texts went unanswered and showed “delivered.” She tried to find comfort in the fact that he hadn’t blocked her. On Monday evenings, she tried arriving early and staying late, hoping to run into him, but it didn’t happen. The thought of showing up when he would be hosting one of his culinary classes crossed her mind more than a few times. She also considered asking Nadia, who was always in the building, about his whereabouts. But her pride wouldn’t allow her to do any of those things. Girl, why are you even sweating him? He’s probably boo’d up with that chickenhead tramp he was “whipping something up” for. You around here worried about him. Meanwhile, he ain’t thinking about you or your friendship. Let it go. She tried convincing herself in an effort to feel better, but it didn’t work. Instead, she sulked, which was precisely what she was doing when Uncle Julian called.
“How’s my favorite niece, the world’s greatest pageant and runway coach?” Uncle Julian greeted her.
“I’m your only niece and the only pageant and runway coach you know, Uncle Julian,” Devyn sighed. “How are you?”
“I’m great, sweetie. Sitting here poolside watching my husband make margaritas,” Uncle Julian bragged. “It’s a gorgeous morning here.”
“It’s nighttime here.” Devyn rolled on her back and stared at the ceiling.
“Wait, were you sleeping? It’s too early for you to be in bed. You’re not sick, are you?” Uncle Julian asked.
Does heartache count? Devyn wondered, “No, I’m not sick. I’m lying across the bed, that’s all.”
“Oh, well, I just wanted to tell you that picture posted on the Pivot page today was jaw-dropping. Absolutely beautiful. And the caption . . . my goodness, girl. I know you’ve probably got more business than you can handle right now,” he said proudly.
Devyn smiled. The picture he was referring to featured her on the day of the launch, posed in front of what used to be the bank’s vault. Devyn stood with her hands on her hips, legs spread apart, and eyes looking straight at the camera. She was dressed in a white Pivot T-shirt which had been cut to expose one shoulder, a red sequin miniskirt, and black, thigh-high boots with six-inch heels. Her bob layers framed the fiercest makeup created by YaYa, a look worthy of a British Vogue editorial. The caption of the photo read: “Unlock the Possibilities Within.” The post had been shared endlessly. Uncle Julian was right. Business was booming. Starting the following month, Journi and Dionne would be joined by eight new classmates, and the first runway workshop was being planned. Chase’s photography clients had picked up as well.
“Thanks, Uncle Julian. We have a lot going on,” Devyn told him.
“I see. Classes, workshops, interviews. Pretty soon, you’re gonna have to start paying rent,” he teased.
“And I have no problem doing that, Uncle Julian. Just let me know how much.”
“Stop it. You know I would never take money from you, Devyn. I’m proud of you. It’s nice to see that passion and fire from you again. I missed it. This new beginning is great. It’s gonna take you farther than you ever imagined.”
Hearing him say he was proud brought tears to her eyes.
“I can see your mother now, looking down, saying, ‘That’s my beautiful baby, doing her thing. I just wish her skirt was longer,’” Uncle Julian laughed.
“That’s exactly what she’s probably saying,” Devyn giggled, remembering how her mother would love seeing her modeling on the runway, but cringed at the tiny bikinis she’d wear, or even worse, the sexy lingerie.
“Speaking of your mother, I sent you a congratulatory gift that you should be getting any day now. I can’t wait for you to try what’s inside. You have to let me know what you do with them,” he said.
“You didn’t have to do that. The money you deposited to help out with the launch was congratulations enough.” Devyn referred to the $5,000 that showed up in her bank account on the day of the event.
“That was seed money to help grow your vision, not a gift. You’ve managed to pivot. Now, I expect you to blossom. Not just in business either, young lady, but also in everything your heart desires. Full speed ahead, Devyn. I love you,” Uncle Julian told her.
“I love you too, Uncle Julian.” Devyn swallowed the lump in her throat as the call ended. She sat up, now angry at herself. All of these amazing things were happening. And instead of being grateful, she was moping. Asha and Chase had ventured to Pablo’s for Taco Tuesday. They invited her, but she declined. Now, she’d changed her mind and wanted to enjoy the company of her amazing friends. She jumped up, put on something cute, and headed out.
Devyn thought her mind was playing tricks on her when the silver Suburban pulled up to the front of the restaurant just as she was about to walk in the door. Her heart raced. She froze and locked her eyes on the driver and the silhouette of the woman beside him. Holding her breath as the passenger door opened, she waited for the occupant to emerge.
“Hey, Devyn.” Nadia waved at her.
“Nadia,” Devyn said with a sigh of relief, gazing past her to Nigel, who quickly glanced away when their eyes met. “Hey, Nigel.”
“What’s good?” he murmured.
“Big Head is dropping me off since my car is being serviced. Chase promised to give me a ride home, if she’s in any condition to drive,” Nadia smiled. Since the event, Chase and Nadia had become fast friends, and Devyn could see why. They were both young, artistic, free spirits.
“If she isn’t, I’ll get both of you home. No problem,” Devyn assured her.
“Cool, Dev, and thanks for the ride, Big Head,” Nadia said before walking toward the entrance.
“Nadia, the door,” Nigel called out.
“My bad. Get that for me, Devyn, please?” She gave Devyn a wink as she walked past.
Welp, it’s now or never. Here’s your chance. Devyn hesitated for a second. Her hand touched the door, but she didn’t close it until after she’d climbed inside. Nigel looked at her as if she were crazy.
“What the hell are you doing?” he grimaced.
“Calm down, Nigel. This ain’t a carjacking. I just wanna talk to you for
a few minutes. I mean, unless you don’t have time,” Devyn added for good measure.
“I got a minute. What’s up?” he said, his eyes still forward.
“You tell me. I’ve been calling and texting, and you haven’t responded. You used to be at Culture all the time. You said it was your favorite place in the world. Now, you’re never there, especially when I am,” Devyn told him.
“I got some stuff I’m handling and can’t be there like I used to. You ain’t the only one taking care of business, Devyn.” His tone was contemptuous.
“I know you’re busy,” Devyn sighed, ignoring the way he said the word “business,” “but you used to make time for me.”
“What’s your point?” Nigel shrugged.
“My point is I miss you. And I need you to hear me out, please.” Devyn touched his tattoo-covered arm. Nigel finally looked at her, but he still didn’t say anything, so she continued. “I know you heard what Asha said that night in the hallway, and you heard my response. But it’s not what you think. Asha was being all extra because of what happened with Ingrid and making assumptions about you. She means well but can sometimes be overprotective. So, I just said what I knew she wanted to hear to shut her up, for lack of a better term. I wanted her to drop the subject. My words hurt you, and that’s very personal. I’m sorry.”
“Cool. Now, I gotta go,” he told her.
“That’s all you have to say? Really?” Devyn’s voice was an octave higher.
“Were you expecting something more?” he frowned.
“Yes, I was. I, at least, thought you would accept my apology.” She threw her hands up in frustration.
“Okay, apology accepted.” He glanced at the door as if to remind her it was time to go.
“Unbelievable.” Devyn shook her head. After all of that, Nigel was still dismissive.
“I don’t know why you’re upset. I heard you out and accepted your apology. What more do you want?” he said with annoyance.
“I want us to be friends again.” Devyn was now on the verge of tears, and her voice cracked. “I want you to tell me how the hell you feel.”
“Fine, Devyn. I’m disappointed in how I watched you finally embrace who you truly are: the good, bad, and indifferent. Not only did you discover an opportunity for yourself, but you also created a space to help others reach their dreams. You realized how strong you could be and took control of your life. But then, you turned around and gave that power away without anyone even reaching for it. You just handed it over to your girl,” he told her.
Devyn tried to process what he was saying, but it didn’t make sense. “How can you even think that? I haven’t looked back, except to see how far I’ve come. You’re wrong. Pivot has changed my life, and I’m not giving it to anyone.”
“This isn’t about Pivot. This is about you. As soon as Asha commented about Culture being associated with me and my negative past, what was the first thing you did?” Nigel didn’t wait for an answer. “You folded instead of standing up for our friendship. It was easier for you to allow her to think she was right. Real talk, we can be cool, Devyn, but I don’t need those types of friends in my life. I’m good.” Nigel stared at her. “So, that’s how I feel.”
Devyn didn’t bother to wipe away the tear that slid down her cheek. Her fingers wrapped around and pulled the door handle. She hopped out of the truck and closed the door. Neither one of them said goodbye.
“Hey, you okay?” Nadia stepped out the door and put her arm around Devyn,
“Oh yeah, I’m fine.” Devyn quickly dabbed at her tears with the corner of her fingers. “I thought you went inside.”
“Nah, I know my brother, so I decided to stick around.” Nadia reached into her purse and handed Devyn a crumpled napkin.
“He’s something else, I tell you that,” Devyn sniffled.
“I’m glad y’all finally talked because he’s been moping since the event. He told me not to say anything to you about it, but whatever,” Nadia sighed. “I take it the talk didn’t go very well?”
“It did. We cleared the air, and he pretty much put me in my place. He let me know he wanted me to leave him alone and doesn’t want to be friends anymore.” Devyn almost choked on her words.
“Devyn, girl, that’s just fear. He’s afraid to be your friend again because he’d been so guarded until you came along. His feelings are hurt, and he’s having a hard time with it. He doesn’t want to disappoint you. Nigel may be a big guy, but he ain’t as hard as he portrays.” Nadia rolled her eyes. “Hell, his real nickname is Teddy Bear.”
“But that’s it, Nadia, I would never hurt Nigel, not intentionally. The crazy thing is, before the launch, being friends is all he ever talked about. What’s there to be afraid of?” Devyn whined. “I don’t get it.”
“The fact that he wants to be more than friends, maybe? And the off chance that if he were honest and told you that he was in love with you, you wouldn’t want to be his friend anymore. Then there’s also the possibility of his past being bad for the brand you’re building.” Nadia shrugged. “I told you, he’s more afraid of hurting you than he is of being hurt.”
Devyn’s heart swelled. Nigel wants to be more than friends? We want the same thing. Why didn’t he say anything? Wait, why didn’t I?
“At the end of the day, when all is said and done, you’re still D’Morgan the Supermodel. You were Nigel’s dream girl for years off of the pictures alone. Then he got to know you, and you wanted to be his friend? Mind blown. You falling for him probably never even registered,” Nadia smiled.
“Nadia, your brother has had my heart since the night he made me burn the shrimp,” Devyn confessed. “I guess it’s too late now. He’s met someone else.”
“If you think that, you’re crazier than he is,” Nadia laughed.
“What should I do?” Devyn asked aloud without realizing it.
“How about you go tell him how you feel?” Nadia put her hands on Devyn’s shoulders and playfully shook her. “He’s probably gone home to cry. I’ll even text you his address.”
It took Devyn ten minutes to gather enough nerve to drive to Nigel’s place. Even after arriving at his town house, she remained in her car another ten minutes trying to figure out if this was a good idea. Was it worth even taking a chance? There was a strong possibility that he wouldn’t even open the door, let alone invite her inside. Unable to conquer her fear of rejection and humiliation, Devyn changed her mind. She was just about to start her car when Nigel’s door opened, and he stepped out, carrying a garbage bag. God, please, don’t let him see me, she prayed, knowing it was useless, especially since she’d parked in the driveway right beside his truck.
“Dev?” He frowned as he stepped closer.
Devyn opened her door and got out. “Oh, uh, hey, Nigel.”
“What in the world are you doing here?” he asked.
“I was hoping maybe we could talk some more,” she said nervously.
“Wha—? How?” He shook his head, then said, “Yeah, lemme throw this out.”
Devyn waited while he disappeared on the side of the house, then returned empty-handed a few moments later. He waved for her, and she followed him inside.
“Have a seat,” he murmured when they entered the living room.
Devyn looked around the well decorated space, which was contemporary and modern with a large leather sofa and matching recliner, both with geometric-patterned pillows. Mounted on the wall were a massive, curved television and a game system on a table underneath. There was a framed poster of the Culture logo and family photos displayed as well. His place was warm and comfortable, just like Nigel and exactly what Devyn expected.
“Nice place,” she commented as she sat on the sofa.
“Thanks,” he politely replied. “I’ll get you something to drink.”
A few moments later, he returned with a large bottle of Voss water and held it toward her. She smiled at him, having the so-called uppity bottled water in his refrigerator that he always teased
her about. “Thank you.”
“I guess you had more to say?” Nigel muted the television and sat in the recliner.
“Yes,” Devyn nodded, wondering if the long basketball shorts and white T-shirt he had on was what he typically wore to bed.
“Well, talk.”
She put the bottle of water on the floor without even opening it. Her mind went blank for a second. She tried to think of where to start. Just tell him the truth. Be honest about how you feel. Devyn took a deep breath and uttered the words before she lost her nerve.
“I like you, Nigel. No—I more than like you. You are the person in my life I didn’t realize I needed, no—I wanted until I met you. I’ve known that from the start, and I should’ve told you, but I was afraid,” she confessed.
Nigel’s face was a mixture of confusion and surprise. He leaned forward. “Why would you be afraid to tell me how you felt?”
“Because I was scared that you wouldn’t feel the same way about me.” Devyn shifted in her seat and picked up one of the throw pillows. She needed something to occupy her hands that were shaking. “You kept stressing that we were friends. So, I thought that’s all you wanted.”
“You never said you wanted more, Devyn,” he sighed.
“Neither did you, Nigel,” Devyn pointed out. “Maybe if you wouldn’t have been ignoring me for the past two weeks, I might have mentioned it. Hell, I apologized and opened up to you, and the best response you give me is that you don’t wanna be my friend. You know what? This is a mistake. Goodbye, Nigel.”
Devyn dropped the pillow and jumped up to leave. Nigel grabbed her by the arm. They stared at each other longer than either one of them wanted. The anger in his eyes she saw earlier was gone and replaced by longing.
“Wait. What do you want, Devyn? Tell me.” Nigel was breathing so hard that she saw the rise and fall of his chest.
“You, Nigel. I want you,” Devyn said with boldness in her voice so that there would be no more confusion.