by Zuri Day
“Not at all.”
“Good, because I’m not finished.”
“Maybe not, but I have to go home as soon as we land. The situation with Ernest has had me distracted. I have a ton of studying to do and need to stay focused from now until we break for the Christmas holiday.”
“That’s cool.” Without warning, Terrell lifted her out of the seat.
She yelped. “What are you doing?”
He situated her on his lap, with a leg on each side of him, then reached for his belt. “I’m getting ready to stroke that kitty,” he murmured, underscoring the point by placing a hand beneath her dress and flicking her nub through her thong.
“Can we do that?” She looked behind her. “What if Stan comes out?”
“I guess we’ll give him a show. Sit up for me, for a minute.”
She did. He rose up enough to pull down his jeans and boxers. His ever-ready appendage bobbed a greeting. She looked first at his powerful manhood and then into his dreamy eyes. Once again he reached beneath the mini dress he’d seen at Ceasars Palace the night of the concert and returned to buy for her the next day.
“Did I tell you how much I like this dress?”
“Ooh.” A gasp escaped from her mouth as he slipped a strong forefinger beneath the lace and ran it down the length of her folds—up, down, once, twice, a slide inside, wetness. And then...
Rip.
Aliyah’s eyes, half-closed, flew open. “Terrell, you tore my panties.”
“I did,” he said, replacing his finger with his now rock-hard dick, sliding back and forth, becoming wet with her dew.
“Those were Victoria’s Secret.”
“I’ll buy you some more.”
Finding home, he lifted his hips. She lowered hers. He palmed her cheeks, softly squeezing as he slowly, completely filled her. Love-making, raw and hot, as if they hadn’t done it once already before leaving the suite. Their passion grew as the plane descended, their mutual orgasm heightened by the surroundings, getting thoroughly sexed from forty thousand feet all the way down until the tops of houses came into view.
After catching their breath, Terrell kissed her quickly. “Come on, baby. Now that I’ve made you a member of the mile-high club, let’s clean up real quick.”
She scooted off his lap and stood. “Is that what that term means?”
“For some it is.”
“Yes, those with private planes and private bathrooms.” Said as they both hurried through a spin-cycle shower.
“You’d be surprised. I know people who got initiated in a regular plane, some while flying coach even.”
“Eww. Please don’t tell me that. It’s hard enough for me to sit in those seats as it is.”
“Hey, to be forewarned is to be forearmed.”
“That’s disgusting.”
“Yeah but sometimes nasty can be so nice.”
Chapter 27
Over the next week or so, Terrell spent more time with Aliyah and Kyle. Family-oriented activities, even those involving little people, could actually be quite fun. Who knew? With as much time as he’d spent between PC and Davis, he’d seen very little this past week of his mom and dad.
Seconds after walking into the library, where his dad was enjoying a spot of brandy while his mother drank tea, he found out his absence hadn’t gone unnoticed.
“Look, Ike! A stranger in our home?”
“See, I told you to start taking ginkgo biloba,” Terrell replied, walking over to kiss his mother’s forehead. “They say memory is one of the first things to go!”
“Bite your tongue, son!” Jennifer laughed. “You’d better hope you’re in the shape I am by the time you’re fiftysomething.”
“You know I’m teasing, Mom. You look as beautiful now as the day I was born.”
“How much do you need, Terrell?” Ike, Sr. asked. “Pouring it on that thick means you must want something.”
The jovial camaraderie continued as Terrell walked over and poured himself a brandy, before joining his mother on the leather couch that had been custom-made for the room.
“I do have something to share with all of you,” Terrell said.
“You’re getting married?”
“No, Mom.”
“She’s pregnant.”
“Dad, really? Come on, now. You know I handle my business better than that.”
“Taught by the best, you should.”
“Oh, Lord,” Jennifer gasped, in a feigned voice of desperation. “How much Drake can a poor woman take?”
“I got it, honest, Mom.”
“That you did.” She set her teacup in its saucer on the table. “What do you have to share?”
“I think it’s time for your last bird to fly the coop. I’m ready to buy a home.”
“Oh? What’s brought this on?”
“I just think it’s time.” Said with a shrug. “I’m an executive now, almost thirty. Everybody else was almost out of the house by the time they were my age. Heck, Julian and London are out now.”
“Because neither of your younger siblings live in the state. You have an entire wing to yourself, a private chef at your disposal, maid service and no mortgage. I know plenty of people who’d give their eyeteeth to be in your place.”
“That’s a mother talking, son. No matter how old you get they want to keep you tied to their apron strings. But I understand. The time comes in every man’s life where they want to plant their feet on their own front porch.”
“Just because I’m asking questions and offering opinions doesn’t mean that I don’t understand. This is about Aliyah, isn’t it?”
“It’s about me not wanting to be living in my parents’ home when I turn thirty.”
“Uh-huh. And it’s about Aliyah not wanting to sleep with you in your parents’ home even before then. You should have seen how embarrassed she was when I mentioned her being here.”
“When’d you do that?”
“When she came out for Thanksgiving.”
“Dang, Mom!”
She waved away his outburst. “Don’t get all flummoxed over the matter. I wanted her to know that she was welcome here, as a grown-up. That she didn’t have to sneak around or feel guilty. That, woman to woman, I understood. I think she appreciated it.”
“I guess so. She didn’t mention it.”
“Good for her. A woman worth her salt will never tell a man everything.”
* * *
Aliyah looked around her as she waited for the massive creation of gold-plated steel guarding Golden Gates to open and allow her medium-sized sedan to go through. Having been here a few times, she should have been used to the opulence of this, the most coveted section of not just Paradise Cove, but of Northern California. But she wasn’t. The immaculately manicured lawns, marbled statues, colored fountains and more plant varieties than she could count never ceased to amaze her. Every time she came here was like entering wonderland.
Especially today. When Terrell called with the news that he wanted her opinion on some homes he’d be showing, she immediately played along. He’d often referred to the conversation from a month or so ago, when she called him up and flirted by pretending to be a potential buyer. She’d learned a thing or two about Mr. Terrell Drake during their whirlwind time together and figured showing her the room and decor wasn’t the only thing he wanted to do during this walk-through. That’s why there was nothing beneath her halter-styled maxi except sun-kissed skin.
Your destination is on the right. Upon hearing the GPS instruction, Aliyah took one look at the understated yet undoubtedly overpriced home Terrell had selected to show her and burst out laughing. Even after she started working full-time and made six figures, she doubted she could afford any house located behind those dazzling golden gates. A d
oorknob, maybe.
Halfway up the walk, the door opened. Terrell stepped into the entryway. “You must be Ms. Robinson.”
“I am.”
He shook her hand and then pulled her into a kiss that began soft and easy, then turned ravenous.
She laughingly backed out of his embrace. “Gee, that is some way you have of greeting your clients, Mr. Drake.”
“There’s only one client I greet like that.” He gave her lips another quick peck. “You look good. I like that dress.”
“Thank you.”
They went inside. The foyer was impressive, much smaller than the one in the Drake estate but made commanding by a modern-designed chandelier—wrought iron and crystal—that made for a stunning focal point. A short hallway led into the open-concept living, dining and family room with lots of windows and uninterrupted views.
“So...what do you think?”
“This. Is. Amazing.”
“You like it?”
“It’s one of the most beautiful homes I’ve ever seen.” She stepped into the expansive living area, over to the fireplace and then to the windows. “I can’t even imagine living in a home like this.”
“Why not?”
“Have you seen the average New York apartment? One could probably fit in this living room, definitely the living and dining room combined. But there’s so much space here. And the ceilings. I love that they’re so tall.”
“The two-story-high ceiling has been popular for a while now. I love them also. They make the room appear even bigger than it is, and gives you a feeling of openness and freedom.”
“Look at this kitchen!”
Terrell followed behind her. “Do you cook?”
“Not a lot, especially with my schedule. But with a kitchen like this I would, and definitely more often. This is beautiful. Look at these fixtures.”
“Our designers are top-notch. We keep the look clean and neutral, so the owner can add their stamp.”
“I don’t know if I’d add anything.”
“You wouldn’t want to paint the walls or change the counters or back splash?”
“I don’t think so. The ivory-colored walls add to the brightness, and these understated earth tones complement them perfectly.”
“So if you were looking for a home, this is one you’d buy.”
“With California’s sky-high prices, I’d probably not see this home. My first would probably be a condo.”
“Please send the technical doctor out of the room and bring in a woman who loves shopping and spending money when the sky is the limit.”
“Okay. Put that way...yes. This is a home that would probably suit most women’s tastes. So far, I can’t think of anything I’d add or change.”
“If you do, please let me know.”
“Why? I’m not buying it.”
“Right, but hearing your thoughts will help me prepare for possible buyer objections. And home designs in the future.”
“Just as long as any assistance I provide is reflected in a proper commission.”
“Consider it done.” He reached for her hand. “Come on. There’s more to see.”
Chapter 28
Aliyah looked at the number and frowned. She recognized it; had seen it recently on Terrell’s phone. But why was someone from the Drake estate calling her? She looked at Kyle, deep into a Disney movie, tapped the speaker button and closed her bedroom door.
“Hello?”
“Hello, Aliyah. It’s Jennifer Drake.”
“Mrs. Drake.”
“Please, call me Jennifer. I hope you don’t mind my calling. I asked Terrell for your number.”
“No, not at all. I just can’t imagine...is Terrell okay?”
“Terrell is fine, dear. I’m actually calling to speak with you.”
“What about?”
“It sounded like a good idea in my head, but now, in the moment, I may be stepping way out of line.”
Aliyah didn’t like the sound of that at all. Had she heard about Terrell’s intentions and was calling with a “steer clear” warning regarding her son. “If so, it wouldn’t be the first time.”
“Oh, my.”
“No, not for you stepping out of line. I meant it wouldn’t be the first time someone interfered in my...not interfered but—”
“Dear, interfering is exactly what I’m about to do and if it makes you at all uncomfortable or you are not interested, just let me know and we’ll both forget this call ever happened.”
“Okay.” But not really.
“It’s about your upcoming court date. I hope you don’t mind that Terrell shared just a bit of what’s happening with your son, his father and his father’s family. We Drakes are a very close-knit family. There is little if anything happening in our lives that isn’t eventually known by all of us. So please don’t be angry at him for discussing this with me. After our brief conversation concerning it, I pried him for details. I’m a very good prier.”
Aliyah’s laugh was genuine. She finally relaxed. A little. “I believe it.”
“He told me about the status of your son’s father’s family, and the airs you endured while dating their son.”
“That’s a nice word to use for how I was treated.”
“I’m sure there are others, but focusing on those is counterproductive and not why I called. I’ve heard of the Westcotts in Rhode Island.”
“You have?”
“Yes, very indirectly. A dear friend of mine grew up on the east coast and is very connected to society there. Her family knows their family and, well, the circle tends to be one where most of us at least know of each other. What I’m saying is I can just about imagine what you’ve had to deal with, being considered common in their eyes. Not true of course. You’re the polar opposite of that. But to those with superficial standards for judging. Because I know what you’re up against, I’d like to offer a...consultation of sorts. You are headed into battle. I’d like to help ensure you’re properly armored, starting with a tailored suit from my personal designer.”
“Oh, Mrs. Drake, I couldn’t—”
“You can, and you should. This fight is for something most valuable. Your son. You should employ every available resource to make sure it’s a fight you win.”
* * *
A few days later, as Aliyah rode to family court in Providence, Rhode Island, along with her parents, her brother, Kieran, and Lauren to serve as a character witness, she was dressed in the tailor-made way Mrs. Drake had suggested, a conservative charcoal-colored pantsuit that fit perfectly and felt great. Paired with a matching designer handbag and pumps, along with a strand of classic pearls and matching post earrings, Aliyah knew the look was the type of classic, understated elegance that people like Mrs. Westcott would find properly impressive. At this moment, however, clothing was the last thing on Aliyah’s mind. It was going to take more than designer clothes to win this battle. After what had transpired in the past forty-eight hours, it would take a miracle. She settled back in her seat, looking out at the overcast day as gray as her mood, the recent developments and the conversation about them she’d had last night with Terrell. Right before hanging up on him.
* * *
“Baby, calm down.”
“Calm down? Don’t tell me to calm down! Did you not hear what I just said? My attorney’s got pneumonia, the judge has failed to grant a continuance and I’ve been assigned some court-appointed lawyer who knows me even less than Mr. Simmons who didn’t know me at all!”
“I’m not saying you don’t have every right to be upset. I want to help you, and that can happen more quickly if we’re both rational and focused solely on winning. No matter who is representing you, no matter who is the judge, the only thing that matters is you having full custody of Kyle.”
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“Don’t you think I know that? I’m more aware of that than anyone. What you’re not aware of, what you don’t know, is the Westcotts, and the type of power they wield in this state. And the judge is probably in the family’s back pocket as well. It has made my chances of winning very unlikely, Terrell. So being calm, rational, any of that is just not going to happen right now. And if they try and take away my son, I’ll act the kind of crazy that will make them think I invented the word.”
* * *
They arrived at the courthouse. The court-appointed attorney met her in the lobby. Her family continued to the family division and the room where her case would be heard. For the next thirty minutes she conferred with the attorney. When she entered the courtroom she felt a little better about what was happening. But not much.
The room was smaller than she expected, looked nothing like those courtrooms seen on TV. Her eyes went straight to the Westcotts, sitting on the right side of the room, her family on the left. As if feeling her eyes on him, Ernest turned around. Seconds later, so did his mom. Aliyah took in Ernest’s smug expression and his mother’s judgmental face without flinching. But inside, she was a bundle of nerves wrapped in a blanket of trepidation.
Ernest whispered something to his mother, then stood and walked over. Aliyah straightened her shoulders, adopted a look of confidence she didn’t feel and braced herself for what she hoped wouldn’t become an ugly confrontation.
“Hello, Aliyah.”
“Hi, Ernest.”
“You look well. It’s clear the California sun agrees with you.”
I wish I could say the same about the Rhode Island winter. The thought popped up immediately. Fortunately, she squelched it before it escaped from her mouth.
“Thanks.”
The right response even though she preferred the first one.
“Aliyah, I hope that after we’ve settled this matter, we can establish a civil relationship. For the sake of our son.”
Said without actually choking on the phrase. If not for the nausea this comment caused, she might have been impressed. With Kyle in mind, however, she put her feelings about Ernest aside.