Pain, Pleasure, and Lies: An Urban Romance Thriller

by Qiana London

  “Okay. Okay. From here on out, I will put the label on you.”

  “I mean, think about it, Dezzy. Would you like to be introduced as a friend or some random chick?”

  “Point well taken, it won’t happen again.”

  I turned to look at Diandre. He was staring me down. There was hope in his eyes. He wanted me to open up about my feelings for him. After a moment of awkward silence, he stood and walked over to my bed. He sat at the foot of the bed and began to rub my feet. Diandre definitely knew how to work magic with his hands. If I didn’t already have serious feelings for him, his affection would help change my mind.

  “Dezzy, maybe you don’t realize how I feel about you. In due time, I will prove myself, and you will see how serious I am.”

  As soon as Diandre finished his sentence, we heard three knocks on my door.

  “Come in, Donte.”

  Donte opened the door. Seeing Diandre, he started to turn around and leave, but I invited him in. He stepped inside of the room, but remained close to the door.

  “Diandre, this is my brother and best friend, Donte. Tay, this is my boyfriend, Diandre.”

  I looked at Diandre and smiled.

  “Hey, Donte how you doin’?”

  My brother had a blank look on his face before snapping back into reality. He stepped forward to shake Diandre’s hand.

  “Shit, despite everything going on right now, I can’t complain. Dawg, you look really familiar. Do I know you from somewhere?”

  Diandre shook his head and started rubbing my feet again. I could see the wheels turning in Donte’s head. I didn’t understand why he thought he knew him. They ran in two completely different circles, but I didn’t press the issue. Donte handed me a package that had been delivered earlier. Then he asked if I needed anything before he left the room.

  “I get that a lot. I guess I have one of those faces.”

  Diandre’s cell phone began to ring. Women’s intuition told me who was on the line before he ever opened his mouth. He stood, excused himself, and walked into my bathroom. His actions were a bit out of character since he’d never taken a call in private while he was with me before, but I remained calm. I would definitely ask him about it once the opportunity presented itself.

  I was getting comfortable on my bed when I saw Donte pass my door and peer inside again. I didn’t understand. Maybe there was something in the air because they both were acting strange. I was going to ask Donte to come inside and let me know what was bothering him when my mother let him know Raijean was on the phone. She probably called the house since he wasn’t answering his cell phone. His entire demeanor changed. I wasn’t going to attempt to talk to him now.

  Five minutes of channel surfing passed before Diandre came out of the bathroom. He rushed over, gave me a quick peck on the lips then gave a lousy excuse for having to leave suddenly to attend to Kendrick. Because he had made reference to his son, I didn’t question it. He did appear to be frustrated by whatever had just taken place. We would talk later. I was about to walk him to the door, but he assured me he could see his way out. He wanted me to get as much rest as possible. I didn’t object. I was happy to be home in my own bed, and I intended to take advantage of it.

  After Diandre left, I closed and locked my bedroom door. It was nice to be back in my own private space without having interruptions every time I got comfortable. I wasn’t complaining, though because I was very fortunate. I knew plenty of people who had met a different fate when they were faced with a scenario like mine. With that thought, I relished in the fact that I was alive. In fact, I was so grateful I did what I probably should have done more often. I prayed. I was given another chance at life. Now it was time to evaluate it. Today was the first day of a new beginning.

  Chapter Eight

  As always, business was booming because of the holidays. I was working twice as hard because I wouldn’t be back in the shop until after the New Year. I’d already broken tradition and had clients come in on Christmas Eve, but I figured it was the least I could do so more people could be accommodated. I had three heads left before I left to go home and prepare for Blu’s record release party. Robyn was my last customer, and she had helped me by prepping my other clients so we could leave on time.

  I was proud of my friend. After all of the turmoil, she’d managed to overcome her circumstances. Samarai, her daughter, was healthy and developing at a fast pace. Her relationship with Trevell was rock solid, and both were eager for their wedding day next month. With everything that had happened, they’d had to postpone their wedding. I was Samarai’s godmother and I always tried to assist Robyn in any way I could. She still had some rough days, and when she did, I was there.

  I was flat-ironing a client’s hair when Lee walked through the door. She was going to the release party too, but her hair defied her plans. Before she could say anything, I knew what she wanted. As bad as I wanted to ring her neck for the last minute change, I loved my god sister too much to leave her hanging. She knew it too, which was why she was at the bowl allowing Robyn to prepare her for a shampoo before I could protest. She and Robyn fell into a conversation quickly, and in record timing, I’d finished servicing two clients.

  “Lee, will you do me a favor and lock the front door? I don’t want anyone else trying to sneak in here at the last minute like you did.”

  After she shot me a don’t-go-there look, she locked the door. Robyn changed the music from Melanie Fiona to a more upbeat Elle Varner. She said she wanted to get us into party mode. I didn’t argue because after the long day I’d had; I needed a pick-me-up. Robyn wanted to wear a straight blunt look which took only a few minutes. Lee had asked for the more complicated straw-set. While Lee sat under the dryer, I flat-ironed my normally natural hair. I wanted to switch things up a bit. I got all of us out of the salon in record timing so we could go home and finish getting ready.

  *****

  Parking was scarce, and the sidewalks were congested in front of the Oakland Marriot. Fortunately, Diandre had arranged car service for us so we could avoid the chaos. We were an hour behind schedule, but the delay was well worth it once we were all dressed and ready to go. We had cleaned up nicely and began turning heads the moment we exited the car. Because we were VIP guests, we were able to bypass the entrance line. Inside, people were huddled up around the room. I was happy to be with my girls since all the bodies made it difficult to recognize people I knew.

  A security guard escorted us to the VIP section and directed us to a reserved table in the corner. It was perfect, giving us a view of everything going on around us. We sauntered over to the table and gracefully took our seats. Once we were settled, a waitress approached our table and took our drink orders. While we waited on our cocktails, we talked and people watched. Fortunately, we had taken our seats in time to witness Blu’s grand entrance. He came out with Camille on his arm and said a few words. I listened to him speak while I watched people watch him. Some women looked on with admiration while others tried to kill Camille with their looks, eager to take her place. My cousin knew many women envied the role she played in Blu’s life, but she wasn’t the least bit concerned. She knew her man and was sure he loved her like there was no tomorrow. Before Blu took his seat, he requested the presence of his right-hand man, Diandre. He wanted everyone to know that without the help of his producer, his latest project would not be successful. Everyone waited in anticipation to meet the man behind the music, but he never appeared. I thought it strange that Diandre was nowhere to be found during this special moment, but I figured there was a logical reason. I knew he was somewhere in the building, though because he had sent me a text message while I was getting ready. He wanted me to know that he was already at the event. I had yet to see him since we arrived, but didn’t think too much of it. I was certain he’d find me. Blu improvised well and assured the crowd he’d get Diandre on the mic before the night was over. I tried not to worry about his absence and focused on having a good time instead.

&nbs
p; I was dancing in my seat to the music when Lee tapped me on my shoulder. She spotted Diandre near one of the exits having a heated discussion with a woman. The woman’s back was to me, so I was unable to see her face. Whoever she was, I could tell Diandre wanted her out of his face immediately. I watched intently, trying to get a read on what was happening. Fortunately, the music was loud and people were busy dancing and mingling. Diandre’s heated exchange with the mystery woman was basically unnoticed. He maintained his distance from her. Each time she stepped closer, he took a step back. Finally, he’d had enough and started to walk away. She turned around to follow him, allowing me to see who she was. The persistent woman was Justine. She attempted to put her arm through Diandre’s, but he was too quick. His pace quickened, and he lost her in the crowd. My eyes met hers. She appeared embarrassed, but soon regained her composure and gave me a sneaky grin. My blood boiled, but I managed to keep a straight face.

  “Dezzy, who’s the hoe trying to swoop on your man?” Lee asked.

  “His baby’s mama. She has been a problem from the jump.”

  Robyn overheard our conversation and scanned the room to try to spot her in the crowd. When she found her, she became defensive.

  “Oh, not this bitch. And is she really on her way over here?” Robyn asked.

  I looked up, and sure enough Justine was in route. The bitch had balls. I would give her that. I didn’t know what her intentions were, but I would be ready nonetheless. I didn’t want to take away from Blu’s special night, and I prayed that she wouldn’t cause a scene. But if she took it there, I was going too.

  After slipping money to the security guard so she could enter the VIP area, Justine walked slowly in my direction. I had a million things running through my head, but I promised myself I would not let this chick be the reason I established a criminal record tonight. Lee quickly slipped off her shoes, uncrossed her legs and straightened the rings on her fingers, welcoming the challenge. Robyn had the same mindset. She pushed her chair away from the table making it easier for her to stand if need be. I took a sip of my Cîroc cocktail and assured both of them that wouldn’t be necessary. They were about to object, but she had already reached our table.

  “Nice party isn’t it?” Justine asked.

  I stared at her long and hard. She noticed the fourth empty seat and started toward it. Lee propped her feet up on the chair, stopping her in the process.

  “Oh, I can’t join you ladies?”

  “No,” Robyn responded.

  “Why are you here, Justine? What do you want?”

  “Oh, you know my name? Unfortunately, I can’t say the same. Diandre has never mentioned yours.”

  She was trying to push my buttons. It was obvious. I wasn’t going to let her have the satisfaction, though. My East Oakland roots wanted to come out and give her a run for her money, but my mother’s upbringing quickly squashed the thought. As much as we all made it evident that her presence was unwanted, she didn’t budge. She continued standing there and relished in the aggravation she was causing.

  “Is there a reason you’re still standing here?” I asked

  “How long have the two of you been dating?”

  “Long enough.”

  “Enough for what?”

  Diandre appeared out of nowhere. He acknowledged Lee and Robyn then summoned a waiter to come over. He requested a bottle of Dom Perignon and five glasses before he occupied the fourth seat Lee had offered him. Justine seemed flustered by the fact that she was still standing, but pleased with the idea she was finally being included. I definitely felt some type of way that Diandre thought her presence was appropriate, but I decided to take that up with him later.

  People managed to slip by security. They approached our table with demos and questions. Diandre entertained some conversations and politely turned away others. He took one last question then beckoned the security guard over, urging him to tighten up and not let any others through. After the security guard left, Diandre took me by the hand and pulled me out of my seat. Justine took that opportunity to take my spot. I started to say something, but Diandre pulled me onto his lap before I had the chance. He gave my thigh a squeeze, pressed his lips softly against my cheek and went about normal conversation as if the moment were the least bit awkward. Following his lead, I decided to enjoy the company of my friends as if Justine wasn’t sitting there. I could have won an Emmy for my performance.

  Robyn was yelling over the music, wrapping up her phone call with Trevell when our champagne arrived. Diandre popped the bottle and filled each glass. Justine reached out and grabbed a glass before anyone else. Lee was clearly irritated.

  “You know what—“Lee started.

  “Justine, I’m glad you’re eager to take part in the celebration.” Diandre interrupted.

  The rest of us picked up our glasses and turned our attention to Diandre.

  “And what will we be celebrating, Diandre?” she asked.

  She was purposely flirting with him. I stroked the back of his head and then licked his earlobe. The smile on Justine’s face immediately disappeared.

  “Well, no matter how many times I’ve tried to prove myself, show my determination, or persuade others to see things my way, no one has made it more difficult than Dezzy. She questions my intentions on everything and always has something to say.”

  “What kind of woman would I be if I didn’t?” I laughed.

  “That’s exactly my point. Believe it or not, Justine has helped open my eyes to what a real woman is by being everything a real woman is not.”

  Lee and Robyn both laughed while I struggled to hold my composure. Justine cleared her throat and tried to hide her embarrassment while Diandre continued talking. He turned his attention to me.

  “I know you want me to get to the point.”

  I nodded.

  All of our eyes were locked on Diandre. I had an idea of where the conversation was headed, but I said nothing. I didn’t want to assume anything and be totally wrong.

  “You know what? I’m done talking. I’ve said all I need to.”

  We all looked at each other with confusion on our faces. Diandre had said a whole lot of nothing. As if responding to our puzzled looks, he reached in his pocket and sat a small black box on the table in front of me. I swallowed hard and held my chest while Justine rolled her eyes in disgust. I stared at the box, frozen. Apparently, I had stared too long because Lee picked it up and opened it for me. Inside was a three stone, four-carat, princess cut diamond ring. I struggled to catch my breath while Diandre looked on with admiration.

  “Need I say anymore?”

  “Let me hear you say it, so I know it’s real,” I teased.

  He helped me up from his lap. I stepped back as he lowered himself down onto one knee.

  “Desrinique Tucker, will you marry me?”

  “Absolutely.”

  I extended my left hand as Diandre picked up the ring. He slid it onto my finger as Lee and Robyn squealed in delight. For a brief moment, all of the people and sounds were nonexistent. Diandre and I were the only ones in the room, gazing into one another’s eyes, validating the future we would share together. I slowly faded back into reality as Diandre stood. I pressed my lips against his as Justine stood up from the table. She left in such a hurry that the chair fell to the floor. She made her way to the nearest exit and was gone in the blink of an eye. My girls, being the nuts that they are, applauded at her exit. Soon after, two men asked them to dance, and they were whisked away.

  “Now do you believe I love you?” he inquired.

  “Well, if you don’t, you sure do know how to fake it,” I said, admiring the ring on my finger.

  “How soon can you move in?”

  “Whoa, baby. We’ve only been engaged for five minutes, and you’re ready for me to move in with you?”

  “Well, why not? I’m already more than prepared.”

  “Diandre, give me some time to think about it. I have mixed feelings about living together before m
arriage.”

  “I don’t mean to put pressure on you, Dezzy,” he sighed. “I’m just ready for us to begin the rest of our lives together.”

  “Well, that makes two of us.”

  I kissed Diandre again. He pulled me close and deepened our kiss. I could feel my body responding to him. I was ready to leave and show him just how much he meant to me, but that would be rude. The party was in full swing, and we hadn’t been there that long. Diandre was feeling the same way because moments later he whispered in my ear everything he was going to do to me as soon as we were alone. We quickly came to a mutual understanding. The party would have an hour more of our time before I would politely explain to my girls that the chauffeur would see them both home safely without me. In the meantime, Diandre and I would celebrate Blu’s success until it was time to leave and have a celebration of our own.

  It was easy to lose track of time once we really began to party. There were a few special guest performances from Blu’s label mates. They were more popular artists that the crowd was familiar with. They had everyone on their feet. When people weren’t dancing, they were mingling, sipping, or taking an occasional break for a bite to eat. Photographers were capturing all of the memorable moments. I hadn’t had so much fun in a long time. It was clear Blu’s party was a success. He even persuaded Diandre to finally get on the mic. Everyone was enjoying themselves. I wanted this night to last forever.

  I found an empty seat near the dance floor. I hurried to take it before someone else did. I took advantage of the opportunity to catch my breath. As soon as I sat down, my cell phone began to vibrate in my purse. My mother was out of town on business. My brother knew where I was. Anyone else who would be calling me at this hour was in the room with me. I fumbled through my purse, trying to retrieve my phone. By the time I finally found it, I had missed the call. Seconds later, a text message appeared, urging me to call Katryna right away. As much as I wanted to ignore the message, I couldn’t. I made my way through the crowd and slipped into the bathroom to return the call.