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Jalen had just packed up his tools for the day, wiping sweat from his forehead as the late afternoon sun dipped lower in the sky. The guest house project was really coming together, and Tim had just finished his daily inspection, giving his usual nod of approval before heading inside.

Now, it was just Jalen and Heidi, standing near the back porch, the scent of freshly cut wood lingering in the air. Heidi had turned about ten minutes after her father left.

Heidi crossed her arms, shifting her weight slightly before exhaling.

"My mother is on to me."

Jalen, who had just slung his tool bag over his shoulder, paused, turning his attention to her fully.

"What do you mean?" he asked, his brow furrowing slightly.

Heidi sighed, glancing toward the house as if making sure no one was nearby. "She's been watching me closely, asking if something's wrong. She sat me down today and straight-up asked if I had anything to tell her."

Jalen exhaled sharply, his jaw tightening. "And what did you say?"

"I stuck to the plan. I told her law school, and my TA work were stressing me out." Heidi ran a hand through her long, wavy auburn hair. "She bought it... for now..., but my mom isn't dumb. If I slip up, she'll start digging."

Jalen nodded, his mind already running through worst-case scenarios. They both knew what was at stake. If Tim found out Heidi was pregnant, let alone that Jalen was the father, it would be catastrophic. Tim would flip out and likely retaliate against Jalen. He'd try to terminate the contract before Jalen could finish the guest house, and Jalen would lose out on a massive payday. Worse, Tim might actively try to discredit Jalen's business.

Jalen set his tool bag down, his eyes locked onto hers. "You think your mom is just suspicious, or is she already putting pieces together?"

Heidi chewed her lip. "Right now, I think she just senses something's off, but that's bad enough. If she gets too curious, she'll start connecting the dots."

Jalen exhaled slowly, processing it. "We stick to the plan."

"I know," Heidi said, nodding. "I'm not telling them anything until I have my own place. My TA job is secured now so we're halfway there. Regardless though, they're never finding out that you're the father."

Jalen leaned in slightly, his voice lower. "And if they figure it out?"

Heidi held his gaze, her blue eyes firm. "Then I face the hurricane. I won't let my father hurt you, Jalen."

Jalen nodded, his grip on her waist tightening slightly. They both knew this was a game of timing. The guest house had to be finished first if they were going to get through this as cleanly as possible. Until then, Heidi had to keep up appearances.

Jalen studied her for a moment. "Are you good? How are you holding up?"

Heidi sighed, resting her forehead against his chest for a second before pulling back. "Yeah. I just need to be careful. Some nausea in the mornings, but I've been handling it. I make sure to get up before my mom does, so she doesn't notice, and I try to only vomit in toilets so I can flush the evidence."

Jalen nodded slowly, but his expression remained serious. "Good, but if it gets worse, you need to be careful. If your mom sees you running to the bathroom or looking like hell, she's gonna start pressing harder."

Heidi huffed lightly, shaking her head. "I know. I know. That's why I've been keeping ginger chews in my bag and sipping Sprite like it's a damn lifeline. If she asks why I'm not drinking coffee in the morning, I just tell her it makes me jittery during class."

Jalen smirked slightly. "Smart."

Heidi rolled her eyes playfully. "What, you thought I was just a pretty face?"

Jalen chuckled, resting a hand on her hip. "Nah. You're smart as hell. Just making sure you're covering all your bases."

Heidi exhaled, her fingers brushing through her long auburn waves. "The only thing that really sucks is the cramps. They hit me hard sometimes, but I just say it's stress."

Jalen's jaw clenched slightly. "You sure you can keep that up?"

Heidi lifted a brow, giving him a knowing look. "Jalen, I have been keeping my composure through some of the worst, most awkward family dinners of all time. I'll be fine."

Jalen searched her face for a moment, making sure she wasn't just putting on a front.

Heidi sighed again, softer this time. "Look, I know how important this is. If my dad finds out, we both lose. I won't let that happen. I promise."

Jalen exhaled through his nose, nodding. "Alright. Just keep playing it cool, and if you need to vent or anything, you know where to find me."

Heidi gave him a small smirk. "Oh, trust me. I'll find you."

"I'm sorry that it has to be like this," Jalen said, his voice low but firm. "I wish you didn't have to hide all this from your family. I wish your family could be more open-minded about this. About me."

Heidi exhaled slowly, crossing her arms. "I know." Her voice wasn't defensive, just... resigned. "But you and I both know they're not."

Jalen held her gaze, his expression unreadable. "Still doesn't make it right."

Heidi let out a small, bitter laugh. "Jalen, my dad still thinks it's 1950. My mom is only slightly better, but she still doesn't question anything he says. If they knew..." She trailed off, shaking her head.

Jalen set his tool bag down and stepped closer, placing his hands on her waist. "If they knew, what?"

Heidi sighed, leaning into his touch. "If they knew... they'd try to make me feel like I ruined my life. That I let them down."

Jalen felt his jaw tighten. "By falling in love with me?"

Heidi blinked at him, her lips parting slightly.

Jalen searched her eyes. "Because that's what happened, Heidi. You didn't just hook up with me. You didn't make a ‘mistake.' We love each other. We're having a baby. That ain't something to be ashamed of."

Heidi felt her throat tighten. She hated that Jalen had to feel like this, like he was some kind of stain on her life just because of her parents' outdated mindset.

"I know," she whispered. "And I don't care what they think, but I care about what happens to you."

Jalen exhaled sharply, running a hand over his head. "You shouldn't have to protect me from your own father, Heidi."

Heidi lifted her chin slightly, her expression resolute. "Maybe not, but I will."

Jalen studied her for a long moment, then sighed, shaking his head. "You're impossible."

Heidi smirked despite the tension in the air. "And you love me for it."

Jalen let out a low chuckle, shaking his head before pulling her into a slow, lingering kiss. When he pulled back, his hands rested on her hips, his thumbs rubbing small circles against her skin.

"We'll get through this," he said firmly. "Together."

Heidi nodded, letting her forehead rest against his chest for a moment. "Yeah."

************************************

*Three hours later at Rachel's apartment...,*

"Okay Rachel don't open your eyes until I tell you..." Jalen warns.

"Okay...Okay..." She says walking carefully clutching Jalen's arm.

When Jalen had arrived at Rachel's apartment a couple of hours ago, he told her that he had a surprise, but that she had to clear out for a couple of hours. Jalen had made a reservation for her at a spa that stayed open late, and he'd prepaid for her to get the premium treatment. The spa session included a massage, facial, pedicure, manicure, and shower with all kinds of smelly soaps and gels. Rachel now had chrome light purple-colored almond shaped acrylic nails and her toes were the same color too, freshly done. Jalen opened the door and carefully escorted her into her apartment.

A minute later, he finally says, "Okay, you can open them."

Rachel opened her eyes and she gasped. Her jaw dropped, followed by her hands covering her mouth quickly.

Jalen had decorated her whole apartment with blue and gold balloons and streamers. There were white flower petals decorating the floor, couch, table, cabinets and chairs. There was a large cookie cake with two big candles shaped in a two and an eight. There were three gift bags and a wrapped present on the table next to the cookie cake. There were two dinner plates with freshly cooked chicken alfredo pasta, broccoli, and two sparkling waters. To cap it off, there was a big sign that said "HAPPY BIRTHDAY" in big gold letters on the wall.

"Happy Birthday, baby." Jalen said, smiling warmly.

Rachel's hands trembled slightly as her hands stayed covering her mouth, her eyes glistening with emotion. She turned to look at Jalen, completely overwhelmed by the effort and thoughtfulness by him.

"Jalen..." she whispered, shaking her head in disbelief. "You did all this?!"

Jalen grinned and stepped closer, gently wrapping his arms around her waist. "Of course, I did. You deserve it." He kissed her softly on the forehead before pulling back to admire the joy on her face. "I wanted to make sure your birthday was special, and that you felt appreciated and loved."

Rachel blinked rapidly, trying to hold back the tears. No man had ever done anything like this for her before. Sure, she'd had birthday parties, gifts, even a couple of surprise celebrations from friends, but nothing this intimate or personal. This wasn't just a birthday surprise. This was love.

She took a deep breath and turned back to take in all the decorations again. The blue and gold balloons, her favorite color combination. The white flower petals, the cookie cake, the thoughtfully wrapped presents. She laughed softly as she noticed that even dinner was her favorite meal.

"You even made chicken alfredo..." she said, turning back to him.

"Of course. I pay attention," Jalen said with a wink.

Rachel exhaled shakily and shook her head before lunging forward, wrapping her arms around Jalen's neck and pressing her lips firmly against his. It was deep, slow, and full of raw emotion. Jalen held her tightly against him, letting her feel everything in his embrace.

When she finally pulled back, she looked into his eyes, her own filled with love and gratitude. "Jalen, I don't even know what to say. This is... the most beautiful thing anyone has ever done for me." She swallowed hard before continuing, her voice just above a whisper. "I love you so much."

Jalen's heart swelled. He knew how hard that was for Rachel to say. She wasn't the most emotionally expressive of the women in his life, and she had struggled with opening herself up completely; but this was real.

"I love you too, Rachel," Jalen murmured, his hands cupping her face. He pressed another lingering kiss to her lips before pulling back with a playful smirk. "Now, before this food gets cold, are you gonna sit down and eat, or are you just gonna stare at me all night?"

Rachel chuckled, wiping at the single tear that had escaped down her cheek. "I mean, I could just stare at you, but since you put all this effort into cooking, I guess I'll eat first."

Jalen laughed, guiding her over to the table, pulling out her chair like a gentleman before sitting across from her.

Rachel couldn't stop smiling, even as she twirled the pasta onto her fork and took a bite. Every few seconds, she glanced up at Jalen, her cheeks warm, her heart full.

"This is so damn good," she said between bites. "You cooked this?"

Jalen smirked, leaning back in his chair. "Of course. You thought I was gonna decorate your whole apartment and then slack on the food?"

Rachel shook her head in disbelief. "I don't know... it just feels like... too much." She gestured around the room, her voice softer now. "No one's ever done anything like this for me before."

Jalen rested his elbow on the table, watching her with a knowing expression. "Then that just means no one's ever treated you the way you deserve."

Rachel swallowed thickly, looking down at her plate as her smile grew even wider. She hated how soft she was feeling right now, but damn if Jalen didn't always know how to get to her.

She took another bite, shaking her head. "You're making it real hard not to fall even harder for you, you know that?"

Jalen grinned, cutting into his chicken. "Good because I don't plan on letting you go."

He smiled as he twirled his fork into his pasta. He loved seeing Rachel like this: stunned, happy, and genuinely appreciated for once.

"I make time for what's important," he continued, meeting her eyes. "And you're important to me, Rachel."

Rachel exhaled, shaking her head as she leaned back in her chair. "You're really unbelievable, Jalen. Like... this level of effort? I still can't believe you pulled this off."

Jalen shrugged, feigning nonchalance. "What can I say? I know how hard you work, how much pressure you put on yourself. Figured you deserved to relax, be spoiled, and not have to worry about a damn thing tonight."

Rachel blinked a few times, pressing her lips together as if trying to fight back the emotions creeping up. She wasn't used to being taken care of like this. It was foreign, but she loved it.

She tilted her head, narrowing her eyes at him. "And you did all this by yourself? You didn't, like, recruit one of the other girls to help?"

Jalen chuckled. "Nope. All me."

Rachel let out a small, breathless laugh. "Damn. You really are different."

Jalen smiled again. "Told you that already."

Rachel stared at him for a moment, her chest tightening. If she ever had any doubts about how much she loved Jalen, this night just crushed all of them.

She put her fork down and wiped her mouth with a napkin before standing up. Jalen raised a brow, watching as she walked over to him. Without hesitation, she straddled his lap, wrapping her arms around his neck and pressing a long, deep kiss to his lips.

Jalen responded instantly, gripping her waist as she melted into him. The heat between them was instant, but it wasn't just lust, it was pure emotion. Their tongues slowly slid into each other's mouths as their kiss deepened even more.

Rachel eventually pulled back slightly, resting her forehead against his. "Thank you," she whispered. "For everything."

Jalen brushed his thumb along her jaw, his voice just as low. "You don't ever have to thank me for treating you right."

Rachel sighed, closing her eyes for a moment. "You do realize you've completely ruined my standards for every other man after this, right?"

Jalen grinned. "That was the plan."

Rachel looked at him warmly. Then she suddenly stood up.

"C'mon. Let's go." Rachel said as she took his hand.

"Where are we going?" Jalen asked, confused.

"Bedroom." She replied.

"You don't want your cookie cake first?"

"Not now. I just want you inside me. Now move."

Jalen didn't need to be told again. Rachel pulled him by his hand dragging him toward the bedroom with urgency. The air between them was already thick with heat, her body humming with need from the way he had made her feel all night. She wasn't just turned on; she was completely aching for him.

The second they crossed the threshold into her bedroom, Jalen barely had time to kick the door shut before Rachel spun around, grabbing the collar of his shirt and pulling him down into a fierce, desperate kiss. Her nails dug into his scalp as she fisted his hair which had grown out a bit to a mini afro. This kiss deepened as their tongues tangled once again, but more aggressive this time in a battle for control.

Jalen's hands slid down her back before gripping her thighs, effortlessly lifting her off the ground. Rachel let out a small gasp, instinctively wrapping her legs around his waist as he carried her to the bed.

They collapsed onto the mattress, Rachel beneath him, her body already arching against his, craving the friction.

"Take it off," Rachel breathed against his lips, her fingers already tugging at his shirt.

Jalen smirked and did as he was told, pulling his shirt over his head and tossing it aside. Rachel's eyes raked over his body, hunger flashing across her face as she ran her hands down his chest, her nails scraping lightly over his abs.

"Your turn," Jalen said, his voice low and commanding.

Rachel sat up just enough to pull her dress over her head, tossing it somewhere across the room. She wasn't wearing a bra, and Jalen took a second to admire the way her breasts sat perfectly, her nipples already hardened with anticipation.

"Goddamn," Jalen muttered before gripping her waist and flipping them over, so she was straddling him.

Rachel grinned down at him, her hands splayed against his chest, loving the way his muscles flexed beneath her touch.

"You're overdressed," she teased, sliding her hands down to his waistband.

Jalen arched a brow. "Then fix that."

Rachel smiled. She didn't hesitate, undoing his belt and zipper, sliding his pants and boxers down just enough to free his already-hard length.

She bit her lip, stroking him slowly, her thumb teasing the tip as she watched his reaction.

Jalen let out a low groan, his grip tightening on her butt cheeks. "You're playing dangerous games, birthday girl."

Rachel smiled harder, biting her bottom lip. She positioned herself over him as she leaned down, whispering in his ear, "Then stop talking and fuck me already."

Jalen gripped her hips tightly before guiding her down onto him in one swift motion. Rachel let out a sharp gasp, her nails digging into his shoulders as he stretched her completely.

"Fuck," Rachel breathed, rolling her hips slowly at first, adjusting to the fullness of him.

Jalen hissed, his hands guiding her movements, setting the pace as she rode him, her body moving like she was made for him.

"That's it, baby," Jalen groaned, thrusting up to meet her movements, his grip tightening on her waist.

Rachel let out a loud moan, her head falling back in pleasure as she moved faster, her nails leaving red marks down his chest as the pressure built between them.

Jalen sat up suddenly, wrapping an arm around her back, his lips latching onto her neck, sucking hard, making sure to leave a mark.

Rachel gasped, her arms wrapping around his shoulders, holding on as he took control, his thrusts deep and deliberate, hitting every spot perfectly.

The tension built fast, the pleasure intensifying with every movement, every grind, every moan that filled the air.

About five or six minutes later... "I'm—fuck—I'm close," Rachel panted, her body trembling against him.

Jalen smirked, flipping them over in one swift motion, pinning her beneath him as he drove into her harder, chasing both of their releases. Rachel let out a scream of pure pleasure as these thrusts pushed her over the edge. Her legs wrapped tightly around his waist, her nails digging into his back as she shattered beneath him, crying out Jalen's name as tidal waves of pleasure crashed over her.

Jalen kept thrusting as he could feel the tip of his cock reaching her cervix. Moments later, he groaned as he buried himself deep inside her and released his warm thick cum into her, leaving them both breathless and spent.

For a long moment, the only sounds in the room were their heavy breaths and the faint rustling of the sheets as they came down from the high.

Jalen pressed a soft, lingering kiss to her lips before rolling onto his side, pulling her against him.

Rachel let out a content sigh, nuzzling into his chest.

"Best birthday ever," she murmured, a smirk on her lips.

***************************

Rachel, still glowing from their earlier sex session, sat on the couch with her legs tucked under her, wearing nothing but Jalen's oversized t-shirt. It hung loosely off her frame, exposing one bare shoulder, and barely covered the tops of her thighs. Jalen, sitting beside her in just his boxers, leaned back with a satisfied smile, watching her grin excitedly as she reached for her first gift.

The cookie cake sat on the coffee table in front of them, a single slice already missing, which had been Rachel's "pre-dessert" before opening gifts. The gold candles shaped like a two and an eight flickered as she leaned forward, her lips pursed, blowing them out in one smooth breath.

Jalen clapped lazily, his voice low and teasing. "What'd you wish for?"

Rachel shot him a playful glare. "If I tell you, it won't come true."

Jalen smirked. "Well, considering you just got the best sex of your life, a spa day, and all this," he gestured toward the decorations around them, "I can't imagine what more you could possibly want."

Rachel bit her lip, leaning into him, her fingers trailing down his chest. "I mean... I wouldn't mind another round later."

Jalen let out a low chuckle, his hand gripping her thigh just under the hem of his shirt. "Greedy."

Rachel just winked, before turning back to her presents. She grabbed the first gift bag and pulled out a neatly folded hoodie, one she had mentioned weeks ago in passing but never got around to buying. Her eyes widened as she held it up.

"No way. Jalen! You actually remembered?"

Jalen smirked. "You think I don't listen when you talk?"

Rachel grinned hard, shaking her head. "I'm seriously impressed, and lowkey turned on."

Jalen chuckled, watching as she dug into the next bag. Inside was a set of rare basketball trading cards, ones featuring some of her all-time favorite players. Rachel squealed, throwing her arms around Jalen's neck and kissing him hard.

"This is insane! Do you know how long I've been looking for these?"

Jalen shrugged, smugly. "I might have a few connections."

Rachel beamed, running her fingers over the cards before reaching for the wrapped box. She carefully tore off the paper, revealing a small, sleek black jewelry box. Her breath hitched slightly as she flipped it open. Inside was a delicate silver chain necklace with a tiny, elegant pendant in the shape of a basketball.

Rachel was speechless for a moment, her fingers brushing over the pendant before she looked up at Jalen, her expression softer now.

"You really went all out for me," she murmured.

Jalen leaned in, pressing a kiss to her cheek, his hand slipping around her waist.

"You're worth it."

Rachel swallowed, something warm and deep settling in her chest. She had never had a man pay this much attention to what she loved and cared about.

She ran her fingers through his hair, tilting his face toward hers before kissing him slow and deep.

"I love you," she whispered against his lips.

Jalen's heart clenched. He cupped her face gently, his forehead resting against hers.

"I love you too, baby. Happy Birthday," he murmured, kissing her again, sealing the moment between them.

Rachel let out a happy sigh, settling against him.

"This really is the best birthday ever," she whispered, her fingers playing with the chain of her new necklace.

Jalen smirked, rubbing small circles into her thigh.

**********************************

Elsewhere, Chrysti sat curled up on her couch, staring at the untouched glass of wine on the table in front of her as well as her tube of birth control pills. She had stopped taking them. She had been feeling off for the last few months and when she had gone to the doctor last week, they determined that the birth control pills were the cause and recommended that she stop taking them immediately. So, she did, but now it left her feeling more vulnerable than ever.

Her thoughts swirled like a storm, as she contemplated how this would affect her decisions to have sex and what her best options were going forward.

Besides the thoughts about her birth control, there were also the thoughts of Jalen. She wanted to see him again. Not only that, she wanted to embrace Jalen and let him love her the way he's tried to, but she couldn't. She knew better. It would be foolish to fall for him, suicidal even. She clenched her jaw, shaking her head to herself. He was a man, and she couldn't trust men.

But Jalen was different though...

That's what made this so damn hard. She had spent years building walls around her heart, keeping herself safe from disappointment, betrayal, and pain. Yet here was a man, with six women already, mind you, and somehow, he was still making her question everything.

She scoffed out loud. "Why is this even a question?!"

Chrysti ran a hand through her hair, frustrated. She had never met a man like Jalen before. He was strong but kind, protective but never possessive, dominant but always respectful, and the way he looked at her made her feel like the most special woman in the world.

Unfortunately, she had been fooled before. Men always turned on her in the end. Did it really matter how good Jalen was now? He'd eventually break her heart like the rest..., right? Chrysti stared at her phone, Jalen's name on the screen, their last texts sitting there unanswered.

He had given her space, respected her boundaries, and never pressured her. She had appreciated that, but the fact of the matter was..., she missed him terribly.

**************************************

Jalen stared at the ceiling, the soft glow of the digital clock on Rachel's nightstand reading 2:07 AM.

Rachel was sound asleep on his chest. Her breathing was soft and steady, and her body relaxed in a way that told him today had been perfect for her. She deserved it.

Jalen's mind, however, was far from at peace. His thoughts ran wild, one after the other, refusing to let him rest.

He thought about Megan's divorce. Karla had built a damn near airtight case, but Chris was not the type of man to go down without a fight. If he ever found out Megan was pregnant, he'd try to use it as a weapon, not because he cared about the baby, but because he'd want to punish her for daring to leave him. Then if he somehow figured out that Jalen was the father then that would be a whole other problem. Jalen exhaled, rubbing the bridge of his nose.

His thoughts moved to Kristen. She was still adjusting. Adjusting to life after Rob, being pregnant, and, more than anything, sharing him. She told him she loved him, but Jalen could feel the doubt creeping in sometimes. She still struggled with the reality of their situation, even if she was trying to make peace with it. He'd have to check in on her tomorrow.

Then there was Heidi. Tim Horner would lose his damn mind if he found out his precious little girl was carrying the child of a black man. The man was rich, well-connected, and full of pride. If he knew the truth before Jalen finished the guest house? He'd try to destroy him. Thankfully, Heidi was playing it smart. She had a plan, and Jalen trusted her to handle it, but the risk was still there.

Then, of course, there was Chrysti Oliveira. Jalen sighed, staring at the ceiling again. She was the only woman he couldn't figure out. Chrysti had feelings for him. He could see it in her eyes, feel it in her touch. That night they spent together, she had let go in a way he knew was rare for her, and yet, she kept pushing him away. She was fighting something. Fighting herself perhaps. Jalen didn't know if he had the patience to wait forever, but he also knew that he wasn't ready to give up on her either.

He glanced down at Rachel, her peaceful face pressed against his chest. She didn't have these doubts. She no longer hesitated to love him and trust him. Would Chrysti ever let herself do the same? Jalen sighed again, closing his eyes. He had too much on his mind to sleep, but he'd have to find a way to get through it all.

Jalen grabs his phone. He sends a text to Chrysti even though it is now 2:30 am.

"Hey. Just thinking about you. I hope you're okay."

To Jalen's surprise, she responds a few minutes later, implying that she is up because she can't sleep either.

Chrysti: "I can't sleep. My mind won't shut up."

Jalen stares at his phone, hesitating for a moment before typing back.

Jalen: "Same here. Want to talk about it?"

The three little dots appear and disappear a few times before she finally sends her response.

Chrysti: "I don't even know where to start."

Jalen exhales, rubbing a hand over his face. He shifts slightly, careful not to wake Rachel, who is still peacefully asleep on his chest. He doesn't want to push Chrysti, but he also doesn't want to leave her alone with whatever is on her mind.

Jalen: "Start wherever you want. I'm here."

There's a longer pause this time, then, finally, she replies.

Chrysti: "You're too good to me."

That makes Jalen smiled slightly, but there's something in her words that makes him feel a little sad, too.

Jalen: "I don't think that's true. But even if it was, wouldn't you rather have that than the alternative?"

There's another pause. When she finally responds, her message is blunt.

Chrysti: "I don't trust it."

Jalen's stomach clenches a little, but he isn't surprised. He already knows how hard it is for Chrysti to let herself be vulnerable, especially with men.

Jalen: "I get that. I do. But you don't have to trust ‘it'. Just trust me."

He knows that's asking a lot, but he means every word. Chrysti takes even longer to reply this time, but when she does, it's not what he expected.

Chrysti: "Are you awake because you can't sleep or because you're thinking about me?"

Jalen smiles again, shaking his head at the way she flipped the conversation on him. He doesn't even hesitate before responding.

Jalen: "Both."

The dots appear again.

Chrysti: "You're impossible."

Jalen chuckles softly to himself.

Jalen: "You should get some rest."

Chrysti: "Yeah, you too."

A beat passes. Then another text comes through.

Chrysti: "Goodnight, Jalen."

Jalen: "Goodnight, Chrysti."

Jalen stares at the screen for a long moment after she stops responding. He knows she's struggling. He knows she wants him, but she's afraid, and he knows that nothing he says right now will change that. She has to come to terms with it on her own.

He sighs and finally puts his phone down, wrapping his arm around Rachel again. Even as his eyes start to drift closed, his mind is still on Chrysti.

Lying awake in her bed miles away, is Chrysti, still thinking about him too.

*********************************

A few days later, Chrysti is teaching a yoga class at a studio on Saturday morning, which is set to begin at 8 am.

She adjusts her mat at the front of the studio, rolling her shoulders as she takes a deep breath. The soft instrumental music playing in the background sets a calming tone, but inside, her mind is still running in circles.

She didn't get much sleep after her conversation with Jalen the other night and she hadn't exactly slept well during the nights that followed either. She's been thinking about him too much.

The class is starting soon, and students begin to filter in, rolling out their mats and chatting quietly amongst themselves. Chrysti forces herself to shake off her thoughts and focus. This is her space and her escape. Then, suddenly, she looks up towards the doorway and her stomach does somersaults. He's here.

Jalen.

Standing near the entrance, dressed in athletic shorts and a fitted sleeveless tee that shows off his toned arms. He's holding a yoga mat, looking directly at her with that small, knowing smirk.

Chrysti's breath hitches. "What the hell is he doing here?" She thought.

Jalen watches the surprise flicker across her face. He can tell she wasn't expecting him, and that makes this all the more satisfying. He strides over to an open spot near the middle of the room, unrolling his mat and stretching out like he belongs there. A few of the other women in the class take notice of him, because how could they not? Jalen is impossible to ignore.

Chrysti quickly regains her composure, clearing her throat before addressing the class.

"Alright, everyone, let's get started."

Her voice is even, professional. She's not going to let him throw her off.

She leads the class through their warm-up, moving through gentle stretches and controlled breathing, but she's hyper-aware of Jalen's presence. She notices his deep, steady breaths, the way his muscles flex with each movement, and the fact that he's actually pretty damn good at this.

Jalen wasn't about to embarrass himself here. He had done yoga before, granted, not often, but enough to not look like an idiot. He watches Chrysti move with effortless grace, her toned body flowing through each pose like she was made for this, and he notices the way she pointedly avoids looking directly at him.

Chrysti hates how much she notices him, and how much she wants to watch him. She forces herself to focus as she transitions into a Warrior II pose.

"Keep your core engaged and focus on your breath," she instructs the class, but for some reason, when she says it, her eyes land on Jalen.

Jalen holds the pose easily, his balance solid, his gaze locked onto her. Chrysti quickly looks away.

They go through a series of poses. They do the Downward Dog, Triangle, and the Pigeon. Jalen follows along without missing a beat. Chrysti keeps things professional, but she can't ignore the way some of the women in the class are clearly stealing glances at him. She should be annoyed, but instead, she feels something dangerously close to possessiveness.

When they move into the final pose, Savasana, the resting pose, Chrysti finally exhales. Almost done. As the class settles into stillness, Chrysti quietly moves through the room, offering small adjustments and encouragement. When she reaches Jalen's mat, she hesitates for a second before kneeling beside him.

She shouldn't, but she does.

She gently places her hands on his shoulders, applying light pressure to help him relax further into the pose. She feels the tension in his muscles, the heat of his skin. Then Jalen does something that completely throws her off. He opens his eyes and looks directly at her. For a moment, neither of them moves. Chrysti swallows hard, pulling her hands back like she just touched fire. She stands quickly, walking back to the front of the room.

"Alright, everyone. That's class."

Jalen pushes himself up, stretching before rolling up his mat. He doesn't immediately approach her. He waits and lets the other students file out first. When the last person leaves, Chrysti knows she's trapped.

She crosses her arms, tilting her head at him. "So... yoga, huh?"

Jalen chuckles, slinging his mat over his shoulder. "What, you didn't think I could keep up?"

She gives him a once-over. "I didn't expect you to show up."

Jalen smirks. "Figured I'd see what all the hype was about. Plus... I wanted to see you."

Chrysti's stomach flips again. She rolls her eyes, pretending like that didn't affect her. "You're ridiculous."

Jalen steps closer. "Maybe, but you like it."

Chrysti hates that he's right, and she also hates that right now, standing in this quiet yoga studio with him, all she can think about is how much she wants him.

"I was wondering if you'd join me for breakfast. Get some avocado toast or something." Jalen says.

Chrysti raises an eyebrow, still catching her breath from whatever that just was.

Jalen had shown up to her class. Jalen had held his own in her class. Now Jalen is asking her to breakfast?

She crosses her arms, eyeing him suspiciously. "You? You want to go get avocado toast?"

Jalen smirks. "Maybe."

Chrysti narrows her eyes, sensing something. "I don't believe you. You're a Waffle House guy."

Jalen chuckles. "I am, but I figured I'd try something different. For you."

Chrysti fights the warmth creeping up her chest. He's too good at this.

Jalen leans against the doorway. "So, what do you say? You coming?"

She hesitates. She can feel the pull toward him, the way he makes her stomach flutter and her pulse race, and that's exactly why she shouldn't go..., but she wants to.

"...Fine." She finally says, pointing a finger at him. "But if you try to take me to Waffle House, I'm leaving."

Jalen laughs. "Noted."

**********************************

Thirty minutes later, they arrived at Blackburn Park in Brookhaven, Georgia. Chrysti wasn't expecting this. She assumed they were heading to a restaurant, maybe some trendy brunch spot. Instead, Jalen pulls into a quiet park, shaded by tall oak trees, the morning sun just beginning to warm the air.

In the bed of his truck, he's already prepared a full picnic spread.

There's avocado toast, fresh fruit, a bottle of water, some kind of fancy herbal tea, and even a small jar of granola. It's all set up on a neatly folded blanket, looking straight out of a wellness influencer's Instagram post.

Chrysti blinks completely caught off guard.

Jalen smirks at her reaction. "What? You think I don't do my research?"

She looks at him, then back at the food, then back at him. "...You did all this?"

Jalen shrugs casually. "I looked up what yoga people like to eat. Figured this was a safe bet."

Chrysti can't even find words for a second. This shouldn't be affecting her this much. It's just breakfast, but something about the fact that he thought this through and that he wanted to make this special for her, hits harder than it should.

She crosses her arms, trying to play it cool. "So, you really went full health nut for this, huh?"

Jalen sits on the blanket, patting the space next to him. "Took everything in me not to bring bacon and grits, but yeah."

Chrysti shakes her head but finally sits beside him. She picks up a piece of avocado toast, inspecting it like it might betray her.

"...If this sucks, I'm blaming you."

Jalen grins. "Fair."

She takes a bite, and to her annoyance, it's actually really good.

Jalen watches her with amusement as she chews, waiting for her verdict.

Chrysti rolls her eyes, giving in. "...Okay. Not bad."

Jalen smirks. "I'll take that as a win."

They eat in comfortable silence for a while, the sounds of birds and distant joggers filling the space around them. Chrysti feels at peace. She steals a glance at Jalen. He did this for her, and she couldn't help but feel that pull towards him become exponentially stronger.

"Why do you keep trying with me?" Chrysti asks.

"Because I know that you like me." Jalen says smirking.

God dammit that smirk. Chrysti sighs, setting down her half-eaten piece of avocado toast. She folds her arms, tilting her head as she studies him.

"You're really that confident, huh?"

Jalen shrugs, still smirking. "I mean...yeah."

Chrysti exhales through her nose, pressing her lips together. This man. This cocky, persistent, ridiculously sexy man. She absolutely hates that he's right, but she also hates lying to herself.

She leans back on her hands, tilting her head toward the sky. "And what if I don't want to like you?"

Jalen leans in slightly, his voice smoother now. "Then that's your problem, not mine."

God dammit. Chrysti closes her eyes for a second, gathering herself. He makes her feel too much.

She straightens back up, forcing herself to look at him. "Jalen, you have six women already. I'd be an idiot to let myself get caught up in all that."

Jalen's smirk fades slightly, but not in a bad way. More like he understands. Like he was expecting this.

"I get it," he says simply. "But you're not just some extra to me. I wouldn't be sitting here, trying, if you were."

Chrysti swallows. She can tell he's being real, which is the worst part. She wants to fight it. She wants to tell him he's full of shit, but she can't because Jalen Moss has never lied to her.

She exhales, rubbing a hand down her face. "Again, you're impossible."

Jalen chuckles. "You're the one eating avocado toast with me at a park, not the other way around."

Chrysti shakes her head. There is silence for a moment. Then Chrysti looks directly at him.

"Jalen," Chrysti's demeanor is more serious now, "how can you possibly still have enough love left to give for me if you already love six other women?"

Jalen takes a deep breath, setting his plate aside. He looks at Chrysti, really looks at her, making sure she knows he isn't just saying what she wants to hear.

"Because love doesn't run out," he says simply. "It's not some limited supply that gets used up. It grows. It expands, and I know that sounds like some corny bullshit, but it's the truth."

Chrysti watches him, her lips pressed together, searching his face for any sign of hesitation. She doesn't find any.

"But what about time?" she asks. "What about energy? Attention? You're one man, Jalen. At some point, you're going to stretch yourself too thin."

Jalen nods, acknowledging her point. "You're right. I can't be everywhere at once, and I won't always be perfect at balancing everything, but I try. I do everything I can to make every woman in my life feel seen, appreciated, and cared for. I don't half-ass this."

Chrysti shakes her head slightly, letting out a quiet, frustrated laugh. "You sound so damn sure of yourself."

Jalen smirks, but there's warmth behind it. "Because I am. I know what I feel. I know what I want." He leans in slightly. "And I know you feel something for me too, no matter how hard you fight it."

Chrysti swallows. She doesn't know whether she wants to push him away or pull him closer. Actually, she does know. She desperately wants to pull him closer but that other voice in her head tells her that it's not safe to do so.

"I told you that I don't trust men, Jalen," she says, her voice quieter now. "I don't trust love. I've experienced what happens when you believe in it too much."

Jalen holds her gaze, his expression softening. "Then don't trust love. Don't trust words. Trust me."

That hits her harder than she wants to admit. She looks down, taking a slow breath. Jalen doesn't push her for a response. He just lets her sit with it.

After a long moment, Chrysti shakes her head again, almost amused. "You really are something else."

Jalen grins. "I'll take that as a good thing."

Chrysti exhales through her nose, glancing at him sideways. "...I'm still thinking."

Jalen nods. "Take your time. I'm not going anywhere."

A few moments later, "What's your schedule today?" Jalen asks.

Chrysti crosses her arms, still feeling the weight of their conversation. "I've got another class at noon, a private session at three, then I'm free for the rest of the evening."

Jalen nods, mentally filing that information away. "So, I'll see you tonight then?"

Chrysti raises an eyebrow. "What makes you so sure?"

Jalen smirks. "Because you like me, remember?"

She exhales sharply, shaking her head. "Cocky bastard."

Jalen just grins. "Correction. Confident."

Chrysti rolls her eyes but doesn't deny it. Instead, she gives him a look that's half amused, half annoyed. "...Where would we even go?"

Jalen leans back, rubbing his chin like he's considering. "That depends. Do you want to be wined and dined, kick back and relax, or have some fun?"

Chrysti hesitates, studying him. Part of her wants to say no, to keep her distance, but another part, the part that's been dangerously drawn to him since day one, wants to say yes.

"...Not sure, but... I'll think about it."

Jalen nods like he expected that answer. "Alright. Let me know." He starts gathering their plates, but before he stands up, he looks at her again. "No pressure, Chrysti. Just... let yourself enjoy this."

Chrysti doesn't respond right away, but something in her chest tightens at his words.

"I'll be with Heidi until about 7 or 8 since today's her day to be with me, but after that, you and I can...tangle..." Jalen says winking.

Chrysti shakes her head, suppressing a smirk. "Tangle?"

Jalen chuckles, leaning back on his elbows. "Yeah. You know... get into some things. See where the night takes us."

Chrysti exhales, running a hand through her hair. "You really don't quit, do you?"

Jalen shakes his head, his smirk unwavering. "Not when I know what I want."

She lets out a slow breath, staring at him for a long moment. She knows she's playing a dangerous game letting him get this close, and entertaining the idea of actually giving in to the warmth he offers.

"Fine," she finally says.

Jalen grins. "That's all I needed to hear."

Chrysti rolls her eyes but can't fight the small smile tugging at her lips. "Go be with Heidi. I'll see you later."

Jalen leans in slightly, his voice dropping just enough to make her stomach flip. "Can't wait."

Chrysti watches as he gets up, taking their empty plates with him. The moment he's gone, she exhales sharply, rubbing her temples.

"What the hell are you doing, Chrysti?" She says to herself.

Whatever this is... it's getting harder and harder to fight.

***************************

Chrysti and Jalen texted and agreed to meet up at a nightclub in east Atlanta called El Bar around 10:30 pm.

Jalen leans against his truck, arms crossed over his broad chest, watching as Chrysti approaches. His eyes rake over her slowly, taking in the way her black crop top hugs her curves, how her high-waisted leather skirt accentuates her toned legs, and the way her white-colored 12-cm So Kate high heels make her walk with even more confidence than usual. Her long dark hair cascades down her back in loose waves, and her smokey eyeshadow, sharp eyeliner, and deep red lips makes her look dangerous.

Chrysti already regrets this. This is a bad idea.

Jalen's smirk grows as she gets closer. "You look incredible."

She exhales sharply. "I shouldn't be here."

Jalen tilts his head, amusement flickering in his eyes. "Yet here you are."

Chrysti crosses her arms, shifting her weight onto one hip. "If you make this weird, I'm leaving."

Jalen pushes off the truck and steps closer, closing the gap between them. He smells like cologne and confidence, and it's already messing with her head.

"Come on, Chrysti." His voice is low, teasing. "You know you want to dance with me."

She clenches her jaw, ignoring the heat creeping up her spine. She does want to dance with him. She wants to feel his hands on her hips, his body moving against hers, his breath on her skin. Yet that's exactly why this is a mistake.

Jalen takes another step forward, lowering his voice even more. "Let's just have a good time. No pressure."

Chrysti holds his gaze for a long moment before sighing. "Fine. Let's go."

Jalen grins, offering his hand. "That's my girl."

She ignores the way those three words send a shiver down her spine and brushes past him, heading toward the entrance of El Bar.

Jalen watches her walk away, shaking his head. "She's gonna be the death of me." Then, he follows her inside.

Once they're inside, Chrysti hesitates. She's not usually this reluctant in a club setting, but something about Jalen's presence makes everything feel different. The air between them is thick with unspoken tension, and the way his eyes keep flickering down to her lips, her body, the way he watches her, is all throwing her off balance.

She looks around the dimly lit club, the red and blue neon lights flashing across the packed dance floor. The bass is heavy, the crowd moving in sync with the music, but she still feels stiff.

Jalen leans in slightly, lowering his voice so she can hear him over the music. "You want a drink?"

Chrysti exhales, running a hand through her long dark waves. "Yeah. Tequila. Straight."

Jalen smirks. "That's what I like to hear."

He disappears toward the bar, leaving Chrysti alone for a moment. She rolls her shoulders, trying to shake off the tension. Why does he make her feel so damn flustered?

A few minutes later, Jalen returns, holding two glasses. He hands her the tequila and raises his own glass, a simple bourbon on the rocks.

"To what?" Chrysti asks, arching a brow.

Jalen studies her for a second, then clinks his glass against hers. "To you finally letting your guard down."

Chrysti scoffs but doesn't argue. Instead, she throws back the tequila, the burn spreading down her throat as she sets the glass down on a nearby ledge.

Jalen watches her closely, his own drink still in his hand. "Ready now?"

Chrysti licks her lips, already feeling the warmth from the tequila settle in. "I don't know. Are you even a good dancer?"

Jalen chuckles, taking a slow sip of his bourbon. "Guess you'll have to find out."

He holds out his hand. Chrysti stares at it for a second, then sighs before taking it.

"Just don't embarrass me."

Jalen grins, pulling her toward the dance floor. "I wouldn't dream of it."

They go to the middle of the club where plenty of people are dancing to DJ playing Hip Hop music. The next song he played was Fuckin' Problems by A$AP Rocky. Chrysti cautiously turns around and backs into Jalen, careful not to press into him too much. Jalen can't help but smirk as Chrysti cautiously eases into him, her movements slow, deliberate like she was testing the waters. The beat of the song is thick with bass, rattling through the floor, making it impossible not to move. She keeps a small space between them at first, rolling her hips in a smooth, controlled rhythm, just enough to tease. Jalen watches her, taking in the way her body flows with the music, how effortlessly she moves. She's holding back. He steps in closer, just a fraction, his large hands resting lightly on her hips, not forcing, just guiding. She doesn't resist, but she doesn't fully lean into him either.

Jalen leans down, his lips close to her ear. "You don't have to be scared of me, Chrysti."

She scoffs, throwing a smirk over her shoulder. "I'm not scared of you."

Jalen chuckles, his grip tightening just a little as he lowers his voice. "Then dance with me for real."

Chrysti exhales, closing her eyes for a second, letting the music take over. She rolls her head to the side, biting her lip, then presses her body fully against his. Jalen's hands flex against her hips as she finally gives in, her movements syncing with his effortlessly. She grinds into him slowly, testing him, seeing how much he can take before he loses that cocky smirk and gives her something real. Jalen's hands travel lower, gripping her waist with a little more intent now.

He moves with her, matching her rhythm, his lips barely an inch from her ear as he murmurs, "That's more like it."

Chrysti's breath hitches, but she doesn't stop. If anything, she moves even slower and deeper, feeling him now. Jalen exhales sharply, his fingers pressing into her skin as he pulls her just a little closer.

Their movements become more and more in sync, and it becomes more obvious that Chrysti is allowing herself to relax. By the third song, Jalen is trying his absolute best not to get hard, but Chrysti is way too sexy and feels way too good dancing on him to avoid it. Jalen clenches his jaw, trying his absolute best to stay cool, but Chrysti is making it impossible.

The way she moves against him, so slow, so deliberate, it's pure sin. Every roll of her hips, every subtle press of her body against his, sends a new wave of heat flooding through him. He's trying. God, he's trying.

But then she tilts her head back, resting it lightly against his shoulder, her long hair brushing against his jaw. She bites her lip, fully feeling the music now, completely in her element.

That's it. Game over. Jalen grits his teeth as the inevitable happens. His body reacts to her the way it always does..., uncontrollably. His grip on her waist tightens slightly, but he forces himself to keep still, to keep breathing, to not let her feel it.

The thing is it doesn't matter because Chrysti can sense it, feel the way his body has changed against hers, and instead of pulling away... she smirks.

She leans back just a little more, her lips brushing the edge of his jaw as she whispers, "Mmm. Having a little trouble back there?"

Jalen lets out a slow, controlled breath through his nose. He leans down, his lips just barely grazing the shell of her ear as he mutters, "You're playing a dangerous game, Chrysti."

She lets out a low, sultry laugh, pressing back against him just enough to make his fingers twitch against her waist.

"Then stop me."

Fuck that. Jalen growls under his breath, hands gripping her hips a little harder now, pulling her flush against him. Jalen was as hard as his pants would allow, pressed firmly against her ass through his jeans, and he wasn't even trying to hide it anymore. The moment he had gripped her hips tighter and pulled her completely against him, her breath hitched.

Oh, fuck.

The heat of the club, the bass pounding through the speakers, the feel of Jalen's rock-hard length straining against her, it was too much. Her heart was racing now, but not from nerves. It was from pure, undeniable desire.

Jalen's lips brushed dangerously close to her ear, and his voice dropped to that deep, commanding tone that sent shivers straight down her spine.

"You feel that?" His grip on her waist flexed. "That's what you do to me."

Chrysti swallowed hard, her mouth suddenly dry. She should stop this. She should, but instead, she pushed back against him, just a little. Just to see. Jalen let out a quiet, gritted breath, his fingers pressing even deeper into her skin.

"Chrysti..." His voice was a warning now, but it didn't sound like he really wanted her to stop.

She smirked to herself, feeling bold. Turning her head slightly, her lips hovered right by his jaw as she whispered, "You sure you can handle me, Jalen?"

Jalen chuckled under his breath, low and deep. "You're the one testing limits, baby." His hands slid lower, gripping her hips in a way that sent a wave of heat flooding between her thighs.

Then, just when she thought she had control, he leaned in and whispered directly against her ear, "You keep moving like that, and I'm taking you home."

Chrysti's breath hitched again, but then she composed herself.

"You take me home when I say so." Chrysti responds in an attempt to re-establish dominance.

Jalen grinned, amused but unmoved by her attempt to regain control. His grip on her hips tightened just enough to let her know exactly who had the real power in this moment.

"Oh yeah?" he murmured, his lips still dangerously close to her ear. "You think you're in charge here?"

Chrysti swallowed, her body betraying her as a shiver ran down her spine, but she wasn't about to back down.

"I know I am." Her voice was strong, but the way her body was reacting to him, her hips pressing against him and her breathing faster, told a different story.

Jalen chuckled, that deep, knowing laugh that told her he saw right through her.

"Nah, Chrysti," he said, his voice dropping lower, more dangerous. "See, I've been real patient with you. I've let you fight this, let you act like you don't want me. But now..." His hands slid lower, his grip firm and possessive. "Now I know exactly what you need."

Chrysti inhaled sharply, but before she could snap back, Jalen pressed even closer, his hard length pressing against her ass in a way that made her throb instantly.

"So, let's get something straight," Jalen continued, his lips barely brushing the curve of her neck now. "You can act tough all you want. You can keep pretending like you're not gonna let this happen. But the truth?"

He gripped her waist tighter and rolled his hips into her—slow, deliberate, controlled. Chrysti's breath stuttered.

Jalen smirked. "The truth is, you've already given in."

Chrysti clenched her jaw, fighting against the full-body heat rushing through her. She had to keep control. She absolutely had to, but then Jalen's hand slid up her stomach, his fingertips grazing the bare skin under her top, and then... Fuck.

Her head tilted back before she could stop it, her body giving itself away.

Jalen leaned in again, lips brushing against her ear, his voice like silk-dipped gravel.

"I'm taking you home, Chrysti, and when we get there..."

He kissed her jaw, just once, but it was enough to make her knees weak.

"...you're gonna let me have you however I want." He finished.

Fucking shit. He won.

Before she could stop herself, she leaned her head back and used her hand to reach behind her and pull him into a hungry tongue kiss. Jalen groaned into the kiss, his hands gripping her waist tighter, like he'd been waiting for this moment all damn night. Chrysti's lips were soft but demanding, her tongue sliding against his with a hunger that betrayed everything she'd tried to fight off. She wasn't resisting anymore.

Jalen spun her around, pinning her against him fully now, his hands traveling from her hips, up her back, to her neck. Chrysti moaned into his mouth, gripping his shirt like she needed something to hold onto.

Jalen broke the kiss just enough to whisper against her lips, "Say it."

Chrysti was breathless, dazed, her pupils blown wide as she tried to hold onto some semblance of control.

"Say what?" she challenged, even though her body already knew.

Jalen smirked, his thumb brushing over her bottom lip before kissing her again, deeply, slowly, and, dominant.

When he pulled back this time, he had her.

"You already know," he murmured, his lips teasing the corner of her mouth.

Chrysti exhaled sharply, her chest rising and falling fast. She couldn't lie anymore.

"Take me home, Jalen."

Jalen's grip on her tightened for just a second before he grabbed her hand and led her toward the exit.

Chrysti didn't hesitate or second-guess. She wanted this.

*********************************

The moment they got through the door, Jalen had her against the wall.

Chrysti barely had time to kick off her heels before his mouth was on hers again, deep and possessive. His hands slid up her sides, gripping her waist before lifting her effortlessly. Instinctively, her legs wrapped around his waist, her arms locked around his neck as she moaned into his mouth.

Fuck, her whole body was on fire.

Jalen walked them toward the bedroom with purpose, never breaking the kiss, his tongue dominating hers, his grip possessive but controlled. Chrysti wanted to fight it, wanted to stay in control, but it was impossible when he kissed her and touched her like this.

They made it to the bedroom and Jalen turned and dropped her onto the mattress, his heavy frame hovering over her. His eyes were darker now, full of hunger, control, and something deeper.

"You still trying to fight me?" Jalen murmured, dragging his lips along her jaw, teasing her.

Chrysti was breathless, her long acrylic nails digging into his shoulders. She hated how bad she wanted him, and how he knew exactly what he was doing to her.

"...Shut up," she breathed, reaching down to pull at his shirt.

Jalen smirked, but he obeyed, stripping it off in one smooth motion before leaning back down, pressing his body against hers. Chrysti bit her lip when she felt his hard length pressing against her through his pants.

Jalen dipped his head to her neck, kissing, sucking, biting just enough to leave his mark.

She gasped.

"Jalen—"

He groaned against her skin. "Say it again."

Chrysti's head was spinning, her body arching against him on instinct.

"Jalen..." she moaned, barely holding herself together.

He was wrecking her completely, and she now wanted him to.

Jalen wasn't rushing. He was taking his time, exploring, teasing, and making her feel every second of this. Chrysti felt like she was losing her mind. His mouth was everywhere. Down her neck, over her collarbone, across the tops of her breasts. She was burning up. Every time he pressed his hips against her, his hard length still trapped behind his pants, she had to bite back a desperate moan.

This was so dangerous, especially because she wasn't on her birth control anymore, but she wanted him so badly, it hurt.

Jalen's hands slid down her sides, finding the hem of her dress and pulling it up, inch by inch. His knuckles grazed her thighs, and she shivered at the contact.

"You're sensitive," Jalen noted, his voice deep and teasing against her skin.

Chrysti clenched her jaw. "Shut up."

Jalen smirked. "Make me."

Fuck. She grabbed the back of his head and pulled him into another kiss, rough and hungry, like she was trying to reclaim control, but Jalen wasn't letting her have it. His hands gripped her thighs, spreading them wider, pressing his weight against her so she could feel all of him.

Chrysti gasped into his mouth. His size, his strength, the way he felt against her, it was too much. He was too much. Jalen pulled back, looking down at her with that damn knowing smirk. He could feel what he was doing to her.

"You're already soaked, aren't you?" he murmured, running his fingers lightly up her thigh.

Chrysti glared at him, refusing to answer, but Jalen wasn't in a hurry. He slid down her body, kissing his way lower and lower, until he was between her legs. Her breath hitched. He settled between her thighs, his broad shoulders spreading her open, his strong hands gripping her hips to hold her in place. Chrysti stared down at him, chest rising and falling fast, eyes wide, lips parted, but she didn't stop him. Jalen looked up at her, smiling slightly, but there was no teasing in his eyes now. There was only intent.

"I want to taste you."

Before Chrysti could respond, his mouth was on her.

She gasped loudly and involuntarily as her back arched off the mattress. His tongue dragged through her folds, slowly and deliberately. She'd been wet before, but now she was drenched. Her hips bucked, but Jalen gripped her tighter, locking her in place as he devoured her like he had something to prove.

"F-fuck—" Chrysti moaned, one hand flying to her mouth, the other gripping the sheets so hard her acrylics nearly tore through the fabric.

Jalen didn't slow down. His tongue circled her clit, then flicked over it again and again, driving her crazy. Every movement was calculated, and every moan he pulled from her felt like a victory. Her thighs trembled around his head, and her breath came in short, broken gasps. He slid a finger inside her; then another as he curled them just right while his tongue kept working her over.

Chrysti screamed, her hips trying to jerk away, her body completely overwhelmed. "Too much—too much—fuck, Jalen—"

But Jalen didn't let up. He wanted too much. He moaned against her pussy, the vibration shooting straight through her core, and that was it. Her whole body seized, back arching off the bed as her orgasm tore through her like a thunderclap. She came hard, gasping his name, her thighs clamping around his head as her walls clenched desperately around his fingers.

Jalen kept going until she begged.

"Jalen—please—fuck, I can't—!"

Only then did he pull back, slowly, deliberately, licking his lips like he'd just tasted the best thing in the world. His beard was slick with her juices, and the look on his face was ravenous.

"You taste like fucking heaven."

Chrysti was breathless, trembling, ruined, and somehow, still burning for more. Jalen stood and unbuckled his pants, letting them fall to the floor. His boxers followed. Chrysti had seen his cock before, but her eyes still widened at the sight of him. He was so deliciously thick, hard, and heavy.

"Tell me you want it," he said, gripping himself and stroking slowly, his tip already glistening with precum.

Chrysti's throat was dry. Her body ached. Her pride was shattered.

"...I want it," she whispered, voice ragged.

Jalen crawled back over her, lining himself up.

"You sure?"

Chrysti locked eyes with him.

"Yes! Fuck, I want you!"

Jalen didn't hesitate after that. He pushed inside her in one smooth, deep stroke, and Chrysti's entire body shuddered beneath him as she let out a scream of pleasure.

She'd never felt so full. So completely owned. That initial thrust hurt like hell as he buried himself inside of her, but the pain was delicious.

Jalen groaned into her neck. "God damn, baby..."

He started to move, slow at first, deep, grinding his hips down, and hitting every spot. Chrysti's moans turned into gasps, cries, and breathless curses. Each stroke was power. Each thrust said: "You're mine now."

At this point Chrysti's mind was at war with her body. She shouldn't let this happen. She knew better, but God help her, she had never wanted anything more in her life. Jalen was deep inside her, stretching her in a way that made her feel utterly claimed. Every thrust sent waves of pleasure crashing through her, and the way he looked at her, like she was the only woman in the world, made her stomach twist.

Now, the moment was coming. She could feel it. Jalen's grip on her thighs tightened, his strokes turning more desperate, deliberate, and primal. He was close, and so was she again.

She wanted him to cum inside her more than anything right now, but could she handle the potential consequences? Jalen must have seen the conflict in her eyes because he slowed down, breathing hard, his forehead pressed to hers.

"Chrysti..." his voice was thick, ragged, barely controlled.

She knew what he was asking. Was she sure? Chrysti swallowed hard. She should tell him no. She should make him pull out, but she didn't. Instead, she wrapped her legs around his waist, locking him in place, pulling him even deeper.

"I want it, Jalen."

Jalen groaned loudly, his body tensing at her words, his restraint shattering completely.

Then a moment later, with one final, deep thrust, he buried himself inside her, letting go, releasing everything into her waiting body. The sensation sent Chrysti over the edge, her body clenching around him, a sharp gasp escaping her lips as she came even harder than she had before.

For a few moments, neither of them moved. They just breathed, tangled together, his release still deep inside her. The reality of what they'd just done slowly settled in. No condom. No birth control. No excuses. Chrysti let out a shaky breath, staring at the ceiling, her heart still racing.

"What the hell did I just do?" She thought.

****************************************

An hour later, Jalen is knocked out next to Chrysti, his chest rising and falling in slow, steady breaths. His arm is loosely draped over her waist, his warmth surrounding her like a protective cocoon.

Chrysti, however, is wide awake. She stares up at the ceiling, her heart still racing, not from the club, not from the sex, but from everything. The weight of what just happened won't let her rest. She told herself she wasn't going to be like the others, that she was smarter than this, and that if she ever slept with Jalen again, she would never let it get this deep. Yet here she is now, naked, tangled up with him, feeling his cum still inside her. It wasn't an accident. She wanted it. She even asked for it. She made the choice. Now... she has to deal with that choice.

She presses a hand to her stomach, swallowing hard. What if she gets pregnant? The thought terrifies her more than anything else. Not because of the baby itself, but because of what it would mean. Jalen Moss would be in her life permanently, and Chrysti doesn't do permanent.

She's spent years avoiding attachment, avoiding emotional risk. She's seen what love does to people. Love weakens them, makes them needy, desperate, and vulnerable. Chrysti has never let herself be any of those things, but with Jalen, she's starting to lose that fight. She turns her head, watching him sleep. He looks so peaceful, so content, so... right next to her. For the first time in a long time, Chrysti feels afraid. Afraid that she might be falling for him or that she might already love him. She's afraid that if she is pregnant... she won't even want to run because deep down, she knows the truth. She already belongs to him.

Lying there in the dark, listening to the steady rhythm of Jalen's breathing, Chrysti makes up her mind. She'll get a Plan B pill first thing in the morning. She's not ready for this. She's not ready to be tied down, to become another name in the ever-growing list of women carrying Jalen's child. She refuses to let herself become another piece of his world. This, whatever this is, has already gotten out of hand. The sex was unreal, but the chemistry was dangerous. The way he looks at her is too much. Then on top of all that, a baby? That's crossing a line she's not willing to cross. Chrysti exhales slowly, trying to push down the thoughts clawing at her mind.

Then, a part of her wonders... What if she didn't take the pill? What if she let fate decide? Would it be the worst thing in the world? Jalen wouldn't run. He would be there for her. That's not the point, though. The point is, she's not ready to need him. She's not ready to be vulnerable. She's not ready to love him, even though, deep down, she knows she already does.

Lying there in the dark, Chrysti's mind is at war with itself.

Voice 1: "You're an idiot, you know that? How could you be so stupid?!"

Voice 2: "But it felt so good, didn't it? I'm not even talking about him cumming in you. The way he looked at you! The way he treated you like a queen! Made you feel so desired! Why are we resisting this?!"

Voice 1: "Because he's a man, and all men betray you at some point."

Voice 2: "I think even you know that Jalen is different..."

Chrysti squeezes her eyes shut, but it doesn't silence the war raging in her head. She wants to dismiss Voice 2, to shove it down, to ignore the undeniable truth that's creeping up on her. Jalen is not like the others.

"Jalen isn't your ex-boyfriend or her father, and he isn't another man waiting to break you. He's patient and real, and tonight he made you feel so desired and like the only woman in the world."

This, however, is what made it so scary; because that means he could actually hurt her. That's something she swore she'd never allow again.

Unfortunately for Chrysti, Voice 2 in her head won't shut up.

"You felt it. You know it's real. You know he would never abandon you. You know he would never hurt you."

Chrysti exhales, frustrated with herself. This isn't just about getting pregnant. This is about losing control. Jalen makes her want to let go, trust, and believe, but if she lets herself fall for him completely, and ends up proving Voice 1 right, she's not sure she'd be able to recover from it.

She glances again at Jalen, who's still peacefully asleep, and his arm still draped over her possessively.

She should get up and grab her phone so she could set an alarm to wake up early and go buy that pill. She should protect herself..., but she doesn't move. She just lays there, letting his warmth surround her, as she tries to convince herself that she's still in control.

********************************

By 8 AM, the morning light is creeping through the blinds, soft and warm, but Chrysti's body feels heavier than usual. She should have left already. She should have gotten dressed, snuck out, and gone to the pharmacy by now, but she's still in bed wrapped up in Jalen's warmth. For some reason... She doesn't want to move.

Her mind keeps screaming at her. "Get up. Go. Protect yourself. Handle this before it becomes a problem."

But another voice, that damn Voice 2, is whispering something else.

"Do you really want to?"

Chrysti swallows hard, staring up at the ceiling. She's been in this situation before. Not exactly like this, but close enough. A man promises the world, makes you feel safe, treats you like a queen,.... until he doesn't. Then you're left picking up the pieces. So knowing this, why hasn't she moved? Jalen stirs slightly beside her, shifting onto his back. The warmth of his arm disappears, but not completely. His fingers gently brush against her skin. He's not even fully awake, but he's still reaching for her. That does something to her. She wouldn't be hesitating like this if it were just sex.

Chrysti closes her eyes, inhaling deeply. She'll get up. She'll go... in just five more minutes. It's 10 AM now, Jalen shifts beside her, his body warm and solid against the sheets. His breathing, once steady and deep, becomes slightly uneven as consciousness starts pulling him from sleep. Chrysti still hasn't moved. She's still on her back, staring at the ceiling, her mind tangled in thoughts she can't seem to escape. She's had plenty of time to get up, throw on her clothes, grab her things, and head to the pharmacy, but she's still here.

Jalen exhales, his voice low and groggy as he starts to wake. "Mm... you still here?"

Chrysti freezes. Shit. She wasn't ready for him to wake up yet. She turns her head slightly, meeting his gaze. Jalen's eyes are barely open, still hazy with sleep, but he's watching her now, studying her like he's trying to figure out what's going on in her head.

She hates that he can do that and that he sees her so clearly.

"...Yeah. I'm still here." Her voice is quiet. Almost hesitant.

Jalen blinks, rubbing his eyes before focusing back on her. Then he smiles, but it's not cocky or teasing, just... warm.

"Good." He said softly.

One word. One simple fucking word, and somehow, it makes her chest feel too tight. She closes her eyes, inhaling slowly, trying to quiet the voices fighting in her head. She's never felt this conflicted before.

Voice 1: "Fuck! Chrysti, please be smart about this! Don't do this to yourself!"

Voice 2: "Maybe you NEED to do this to yourself..."

Her fingers tighten against the sheets because what's the truth here? Is she being reckless, or is she finally letting herself have something real?

Jalen's still watching her, making her feel things she doesn't want to feel. He reaches over, his fingers brushing a stray curl away from her face. It was so fucking gentle, that it made her stomach clench.

Voice 1: "You're gonna get hurt."

Voice 2: "Maybe it's worth it."

Chrysti hates herself for hesitating and for even entertaining the possibility that this could be different. Jalen's thumb traces the edge of her jaw, his touch warm, comforting, pulling her back into the moment.

"You okay?" Jalen asks, voice still husky from sleep.

Chrysti swallows.

No. She's not okay. She's never been okay when it comes to letting people in, especially a man, but instead of saying that, she just nods.

"Yeah. I'm good."

Jalen doesn't look convinced, but he doesn't push.

Chrysti takes a slow breath and then another. Her hand drifts down to her stomach, fingers pressing lightly against the spot where she knows his release is still inside her.

Where she knows a decision needs to be made. She should get up and leave. She should take the damn pill and end this before it becomes something bigger than her, but... she doesn't. She stays.

"I'm really glad you stayed." Jalen said.

Chrysti could see it in his face. He is completely genuine. He really is happy that she is still there.

Voice 1: "Don't be stupid. Men always make you feel special right before they let you down."

Voice 2: "Look at him, Chrysti. Just look at him!"

Jalen doesn't break eye contact. His hand finds her waist, warm, steady.

"I mean it," he says, voice low, sure.

She wants to fight it, but she can't. Something inside her cracks. The very thing she's been trying to ignore since the moment she met him. Something that feels a whole lot like... Hope.

Instead of leaving she moves closer and lets her head rest against his chest and breathe him in. When Jalen's arm wraps around her, pulling her in tighter, she lets him. Then Chrysti says something that essentially kills voice 1 in her head.

"I'm glad I stayed too." She whispered.

Jalen stills for a second. Then she feels his exhale, slow and deep like he'd been holding his breath, waiting to see if she would push him away. She didn't. She chose this. She chose him. Jalen's hand slides up her back, fingers threading into her hair, holding her close. She doesn't check the time. She doesn't reach for her phone.

Two hours later, Jalen makes them a late breakfast in the kitchen. Chrysti sits at the counter, watching him. She admires the way he moves so effortlessly in his kitchen, how he makes her plate first before his own. After he serves her, she eats, laughs, and lets herself enjoy this. The hours slip away. The thought of the Plan-B pill lingers in the back of her mind, but she never says anything. She never makes a move to leave.

By 4:30 pm, they're on the couch now being lazy and comfortable. Jalen's arm is draped over the back of the couch, and at some point, she just leans into him. That's when Chrysti knows. She's already made her decision. She's not going to the pharmacy.

Chapter 19

Chrysti and Jalen spent the whole day doing...nothing..., and it felt great. They never left the apartment. Chrysti can't deny how much she enjoyed just being with Jalen. Her instinct said this was dangerous, but her heart had never felt so full. This is exactly what she needed. For once, she was not fighting herself, overthinking, strategizing, or planning an escape. She was just existing with him, and it was effortless. This wasn't some grand, passionate, whirlwind romance moment, it was quiet intimacy. It's the kind of thing you only did with someone you're completely comfortable with; with someone you loved. Chrysti didn't do love anymore, or at least, that's what she's told herself, but today proved her wrong. She wore his hoodie, play-wrestled with him, watched trash reality TV, and ate pizza in his lap. That's love and she knew it. That's why her instincts were screaming that this was a bad idea.

That night they had sex again, and at that point, there was no denying it anymore. There were no more excuses or pretending that it was just sex. She had given in, and she knew that Jalen knew it too. He could feel it in the way she held onto him that time, like she didn't want to let go, the way she whispered his name, and the way her body responded to him, not just with pleasure, but with trust. When he finished inside of her again, Chrysti didn't flinch, panic, or second-guess. She just wrapped her arms around him tighter and let it happen because deep down, she wanted this. Maybe not the consequences, or the risk, but she wanted him.

On Monday morning, Jalen had to go to work and Chrysti had to go workout before her first client call. She stood in front of the bathroom mirror, staring at her reflection, her thoughts and emotions at war with each other.

"Oh god, what have I done?"

But also...,

"I really don't want to leave Jalen right now..."

She splashed cold water on her face, as if that would somehow wash away the overwhelming mix of anxiety and desire swirling inside her.

Jalen was still in bed, his arm stretched across her side of the mattress, the warmth of where she had been still lingering. She should have left already, should have been at the gym, getting her mind right for the day. Instead, she was still here, standing in the bathroom of a man she swore she wouldn't get attached to, debating whether to climb back into bed with him or bolt before reality could catch up to her.

Her logical mind screamed at her.

"You let him finish inside you. Twice."

"You were supposed to get the Plan B, and instead, you spent an entire day playing house with him."

"This isn't you, Chrysti. You don't do this. You don't trust men. You don't fall like this."

Then there was the other voice. The one that was softer and came from her heart. The one that whispered:

"But didn't it feel right?"

"Didn't it feel amazing?"

"Haven't you ever felt this safe, this wanted, this... loved?"

Chrysti closed her eyes and took a deep breath, gripping the edges of the sink. This is betraying all her principles that she had established concerning men. She knew it and felt it in her bones, but still... she didn't want to leave.

Forty-five minutes later, Jalen walks Chrysti to her car. Jalen could see it all over her face, how her eyes lingered on him, how she hesitated as she reached for her car door handle, and the subtle bite of her lip. Chrysti didn't want to leave, and truth be told, he didn't want to leave her either.

She stood there for a second, keys in her hand, but making no real move to get inside.

"I had a great time with you," she finally admitted, her voice softer than usual, almost vulnerable.

Jalen stepped closer, brushing a stray strand of hair from her face. "Me too," he said.

She looked up at him, and for a brief moment, it felt like she might just say screw it and stay. That she might just climb back into his arms and let the world wait a little longer.

Then she remembered he had to go to work too, and then she exhaled, shaking her head as if snapping herself out of whatever trance she was in. "I need to go."

Jalen nodded, though he could still see the reluctance in her eyes. He leaned down, kissing her gently, slow and deep, as if trying to make the moment last a little longer.

When he pulled back, he smirked. "You sure you don't want to come with me to work?"

Chrysti let out a soft, breathy laugh, shaking her head. "You're trouble, Jalen."

Finally, with a sigh, she opened her car door and slid inside. Jalen leaned down, resting his forearm on the window frame as she started the engine.

"I'll see you soon, Chrysti."

She hesitated for just a second before nodding. "Yeah... soon."

She pulled him into one last soft kiss on the lips before pulling out, but as she pulled away, disappearing down the street, Jalen couldn't shake the feeling that something had shifted. He felt like after this weekend, Chrysti wasn't going to be able to keep running from him.

*******************************************************

The Beyonder watched from...well...the beyond.

He observed silently, a knowing gaze fixed on the unfolding events of Jalen's life. He had watched as each woman, in their own way, had become part of something greater than themselves, woven into a prophecy far beyond their comprehension.

Chrysti, despite all her resistance, had fallen. Not just into Jalen's arms, but into the undeniable fate that had been set in motion long before she ever met him. She didn't know it yet, but she was now carrying his child. The final piece of Jalen's destined lineage was nearly in place.

"Jalen has done well," the Beyonder mused to himself, his voice echoing through the vastness of the cosmic void. "Only one remains..."

His presence remained unseen, unfelt, but his influence lingered in the world below.

One more woman. One more child.

And then, the true purpose of Jalen's journey would begin.

*******************************************************

Chris Westward's response to the divorce filing arrived swiftly, and it was as aggressive and dismissive as expected. Through his high-powered legal team, he formally contested every single financial request Megan had made, making it clear that he had no intention of giving her a dime. His legal response was cold, calculated, and condescending, typical of a man who had always viewed Megan as a possession rather than a partner. The message was clear:

No alimony.

No financial support of any kind.

No division of assets beyond what was explicitly outlined in the prenup.

It was a clear attempt to pressure Megan into walking away with nothing. Chris's lawyers also threatened to scrutinize Megan's personal life, implying that they would investigate any infidelity on her part to challenge any claim she had to financial relief.

When Megan and Karla sat down to review the response, Karla wasn't surprised. This was exactly the kind of response she expected from Chris.

"He thinks he can scare us off," Karla said, tossing the papers onto her desk. "Typical narcissistic bullshit. He thinks you'll fold. That we'll back down."

Megan, though visibly shaken, was not deterred. If anything, Chris's arrogance fueled her even more.

"So, what do we do now?" Megan asked.

Karla smirked. "We remind Chris that he's not untouchable."

The very next day, Karla filed a formal counter to Chris's refusal, doubling down on the financial evidence they already had against him. Thanks to the copy of the prenup that Jalen retrieved, Karla was able to highlight clauses that Chris was trying to ignore such as the clauses that could force him to pay out more than he was admitting to. Karla presented evidence of how Chris financially manipulated Megan, restricting her access to funds and keeping her economically dependent. They also had receipts of Chris using marital funds on mistresses, escorts, and gifts for other women. If Chris wanted a fight, Karla was ready to take it public.

Karla knew Chris cared more about his reputation than money. The threat of a public trial and his dirty laundry being exposed was going to be the real pressure point. By responding the way he did, Chris underestimated Megan. He expected her to break and fold. What he didn't realize was that she wasn't fighting alone. Jalen had her back and Karla was a legal shark prepared to go for the kill.

Back at her office, Karla leaned forward, her expression serious as she clasped her hands together on her desk.

"Megan, listen to me. Chris isn't just going to roll over. He's going to fight dirty, and I guarantee you, he'll send someone to watch you."

Megan tensed. "You think he'll actually hire a private investigator?"

Karla nodded. "Absolutely. That's what men like him do when they feel cornered. He'll want to find something, anything, to discredit you. He'll be looking for proof that you were unfaithful before you left, that you've been reckless, irresponsible, or that you're hiding something."

Megan swallowed hard, her hand instinctively brushing over her stomach. She was only about ten weeks along, but she knew this pregnancy was her biggest vulnerability. If Chris found out, he'd use it against Jalen, against her, against everything.

"Be aware of your surroundings," Karla said, "If you feel like you're being followed, don't ignore it. Notice cars that seem to be around too often. If you see someone at a café one day and then ‘randomly' see them again somewhere else, assume it's not a coincidence."

"Okay." Megan said, nodding.

"Also, if Chris is desperate enough, he'll have someone dig through your garbage. I know it sounds crazy, but don't throw anything out that hints at your pregnancy. No ultrasound paperwork, no vitamin bottles, no pregnancy tests, nothing. If you need to throw something out, shred it first, then throw it away in a public dumpster."

Got it. Megan responded calmly, hanging on to Karla's every word.

Karla continued, "At least for now, you and Jalen should not be seen together in public. If Chris gets photos of you two together, he'll twist the narrative. He'll try to paint you as an adulteress who left him for another man, even if the timeline doesn't match up. If you need to see Jalen, it has to be in private. No restaurants, no coffee shops, no parks, nothing where you could be spotted."

Megan swallowed. She hated not being able to be seen with the man she loved, but she understood what the stakes were.

Karla paused before continuing, "Be careful with your phone and emails. If Chris has access to your old accounts, he could still be monitoring them. Do not text or email anything about the pregnancy. If you need to talk about it, do it in person."

Megan exhaled, feeling the weight of the warning settle over her. "I knew he'd fight back, but...this is next level."

Karla nodded. "Chris is vindictive as hell. He thinks he owns you. The moment he realizes he can't control you anymore, he'll try to destroy you. That's why we have to stay ahead of him."

Megan clenched her jaw. "I won't let him ruin this for me."

Karla gave her a reassuring look. "Then follow my lead, and we'll make sure he never sees it coming."

*******************************************************

Jalen received Karla's warning while he' s at the Horner Property. He was in the middle of securing the final drywall panel in the guest house when his phone buzzed in his pocket. He pulled it out and saw Karla's name flashing on the screen.

"Yo, Karla. What's up?" he answered, tucking the phone between his ear and shoulder while wiping sweat from his forehead with his forearm.

Karla's tone was firm. "Jalen, I need you to listen carefully. Chris might send a private investigator after you."

Jalen stopped mid-motion, his expression tightening. "Me? I figured he'd be watching Megan, but why the hell would he waste money on me?"

"Because you're a threat to him," Karla stated. "Chris isn't stupid. He'll put two and two together. He knows Megan left him, and if he can find proof that you and Megan were involved before she filed, he'll try to paint you as the reason the marriage fell apart. That could give him leverage in court."

Jalen sighed and ran a hand over his buzzed hair. "So, what do I do?"

"Be aware of your surroundings. Watch for the same cars trailing you, especially if you notice them outside your job sites, gym, or apartment. If someone starts asking too many questions about you, be cautious. Even workers at your job sites could be approached.

"Next, just like I told Megan, if you two need to meet, do it in private. No restaurants, no coffee shops, nowhere he could have someone snap pictures. I don't even want you picking her up or dropping her off at the shelter. They might have people watching. Also, remember that Chris is a lawyer. He knows how to subpoena phone records if it gets to that point. Don't text or email anything that may give him ammunition to use."

Jalen sighed as he absorbed Karla's warnings. "I understand."

"And finally, and this is really important, Jalen, if Chris finds out where you are and tries to start something, WALK AWAY. Don't give him the satisfaction of reacting, because that's what he wants. Something to use against you."

Jalen exhaled through his nose; his jaw tight. "Man, I hate this sneaky-ass, snake-in-the-grass bullshit."

Karla's voice softened just a little. "I know, but if we play this smart, we'll win. You just have to be patient and let me handle the fight in the courtroom."

Jalen took a deep breath and let it out slowly. "Alright. I got you. I'll watch my back."

*******************************************************

Heidi sat in her room with her laptop open, scanning listings for apartments far away from Bartow County. She had already narrowed down her search to a few promising places in metro Atlanta: Brookhaven, Sandy Springs, and Vinings. Her heart pounded as she clicked through pictures, imagining herself in a place where her parents had no control over her. This had to be done before they found out she was pregnant and could try to stop her. She had no plans to tell them Jalen was the father, which would only make things worse.

As she bookmarked three locations to visit on Saturday, her phone vibrated.

Jalen.

She smiled to herself before answering. "Hey, you almost done for the day?"

"Not yet," Jalen said. "Karla just called me. She thinks Chris Westward might have people watching me too."

Heidi frowned. "Jesus. Is this guy that desperate?"

"Yeah," Jalen muttered. "But I'm not letting it shake me. Speaking of, how's the apartment hunt going?"

Heidi felt her pulse quicken. "I found three places I want to check out. I was hoping... you'd come with me Saturday?"

Jalen smiled on the other end. "Of course. I want to make sure you're somewhere safe."

Heidi exhaled, relieved. "Then it's a date."

*******************************************************

Chrysti is a wreck. She knows what she wants, but part of her is still desperately trying to get her to reconsider surrendering to her feelings for Jalen. She sat on the floor of her bedroom, knees pulled to her chest, her mind a chaotic warzone.

One part of her mind was screaming: "What are you doing?! You're falling for him. You're letting yourself fall for him."

The other part? "You already fell, dumbass."

Her entire body still ached from Jalen; a deep, satisfied soreness that only made things worse. She wanted him again. That was the problem. She thought back to their lazy Sunday together. There were no expectations or pressure, just existing with him, laughing, watching TV, playing around like two idiots. It had felt so...right.

She pressed her hands into her face. "Goddamnit!"

She had never felt so seen, so desired, so...cherished, and it was breaking her down. If she gave in fully, if she surrendered to this, and Jalen ever betrayed her heart, she wouldn't survive it.

Voice 1: That's why you need to walk away. Now.

Voice 2: But what if he never hurts you? What if he's the one?

Chrysti's breath hitched because that's what she was really afraid of. Not that Jalen would betray her, but that he wouldn't.

A text came in. It was from Jalen. Of course.

Chrysti stared at her phone, thumbs hovering over the keyboard, frozen.

Jalen: "Hey. Thinking about you. I still feel awesome from the weekend with you. Can't wait to see you again."

Her heart lurched. There it was. The thing she was desperate for but too terrified to admit. Reassurance.

Voice 2: Look at that! He's thinking about you! Checking in on you! What more do you need to see?! Just embrace this!

Voice 1: No. No. NO! It's too risky. You KNOW we can't survive another heartbreak. We just CAN'T.

Her fingers tightened around the phone as the two warring voices in her head screamed at each other.

Voice 2: What if he's different? What if he's actually different?

Voice 1: Every man seems different until they prove they aren't.

Chrysti clenched her jaw, stomach twisting. It shouldn't be this hard. Jalen had done nothing wrong. He had been kind, thoughtful, and genuine. He made her feel special in a way she had never let herself believe was real before, even with six other women in his life, incredibly.

So why was she so afraid? She chewed her lip, staring at the message. If she responded, she was choosing him. If she ignored it, she was choosing safety.

"Goddamnit." She said to herself again.

Chrysti inhaled sharply. Then, before she could talk herself out of it, she typed three words.

Chrysti: "I can't wait either."

And sent it. Her stomach dropped.

Oh, fuck. She just chose him.

Voice 2: You did the right thing, Chrysti. Jalen will show you he's the one. You'll see.

Chrysti exhaled, staring at her screen, heartbeat pounding. She had done it. She had let herself choose. No overthinking, talking herself out of it. Her phone buzzed almost instantly.

Jalen: "Good. I'll call you later, beautiful."

A sharp warmth bloomed in her chest. Damn him. Why did he have to be like this? Why did he have to make this feel so easy? Chrysti pressed the phone against her forehead, eyes squeezed shut.

Voice 1: This is dangerous. You KNOW this is dangerous.

Voice 2: Or maybe this is right.

For once, Voice 1 in Chrysti's head had no comeback.

*******************************************************

On Friday evening, Karla sat cuddling with Jalen at her condo. Her fingers traced slow circles against his chest as they sat curled up on her couch, the dim glow of the city lights spilling in through the windows.

"How are you feeling about Chris Westward?"

"I don't want to talk about the case." Jalen responded quickly. "I feel like I haven't been giving you enough of my attention lately, and I'd rather just focus on you right now."

Karla looked up at Jalen, studying his face. She could tell the case had been weighing on him, but she also knew him well enough to recognize when he was setting something aside for the sake of someone else.

"You're always worrying about everyone else," she murmured, tilting her head slightly. "When do you let someone take care of you?"

Jalen smirked, shaking his head. "I don't need taking care of. I just need moments like this." He kissed her forehead, then her cheek, before pressing his lips gently against hers. "I've missed you."

Karla exhaled softly, letting herself melt into him. He always knew the right thing to say, always knew how to make her feel like she was the only woman in the world when she was with him, even though she knew she wasn't.

"I missed you too," she admitted, running her hand up his arm, squeezing slightly.

Jalen tightened his hold around her, pulling her closer so that she was practically on top of him. "So, let's make up for lost time."

Karla's lips curled into a knowing smile. "I like the sound of that."

She shifted in Jalen's arms, straddling his lap slowly, deliberately, her soft silk robe parting just enough to tease the skin underneath. Jalen's hands slid naturally to her hips as she settled above him, her warmth already seeping through the thin fabric between them.

"You sure you're in the right headspace for this?" she teased, brushing her lips against his.

Jalen smirked. "With you? Always."

Their mouths met again, this time with more hunger. Karla kissed him deeply, her fingers threading through the back of his hair as she pressed her body flush against his. The kiss was slow, sensual, but laced with that unmistakable electricity that always surged between them.

Jalen's hands moved up her thighs, slipping beneath the edge of her robe, his thumbs stroking the soft skin there around her ass. Karla's breath hitched as he traced slow, possessive circles.

"You've been on my mind all damn week," he murmured against her lips. "Every time I've closed my eyes, I've been seeing you."

Karla pulled back slightly, her lips parted, eyes locked onto his. "Then stop picturing me and have me for real."

Jalen stood up with her in his arms, her legs wrapped around his waist as he carried her to the bedroom like she weighed nothing. Karla held onto him grinning as her forehead pressed against his the entire time, feeling his strength, presence, and intent.

Once inside the bedroom, Jalen laid her down gently onto the bed and let his eyes roam. The robe had fallen open just enough to reveal the lace bra and panties beneath, deep burgundy, delicate, and barely there. Jalen swallowed hard; his gaze heated.

"You're fine as fuck."

She arched a brow, tugging at the hem of his shirt. "Take this off."

He obeyed, peeling the shirt over his head and tossing it aside, revealing the hard ridges of his chest and the lines that made her thighs clench involuntarily. Karla sat up, her lips brushing over his abdomen as she kissed her way down, her fingers trailing over every muscle, claiming every inch of him.

Karla pulled down his shorts and boxers and what she was looking for sprang up ready for her. She smiled as she wrapped both of her hands around his hardened cock and began stroking gently. His cock was so big, solid, and firm. She loved the way it felt in her hands. She decided not to waste any more time. A moment later, she leaned her head forward and her lips made contact. Jalen tilted his head back and shut his eyes as he felt her warm lips kiss the head of his cock before they parted allowing her tongue to slither out. Karla's tongue glided slowly along his shaft, teasing the underside as her hands kept a firm, sensual rhythm. She wanted to savor this and show Jalen just how much she'd missed him. Her lips then wrapped around the head, and she slowly took him deeper into her mouth, her eyes closing as she fully embraced the moment.

Jalen let out a low, guttural groan, his abs tightening as his right hand gripped the nightstand behind him. "Fuck... Karla..."

That sound, the way he said her name like it was the only thing tethering him to reality, sent a rush of heat through her core. She bobbed her head in a slow, steady rhythm, using one hand at the base while her other hand cupped his balls gently. She wanted to hear him fall apart and take him to the edge and back again. Jalen's left hand instinctively moved to her hair, grounding himself in the moment as his breathing grew more ragged.

Karla pulled back just long enough to lick a trail up his length, kissing the tip before whispering against him, "You needed this, didn't you?"

Jalen's voice was thick with lust. "I needed you."

Karla smiled, then slowly took him into her mouth again, this time deeper, faster, letting her throat relax as she pushed herself further. Her hands joined the mix now, pumping him in a twisting motion along the same path as her mouth. Jalen hissed through his teeth, gripping her hair tighter now.

"Shit, baby... you're gonna make me—" he warned. Karla didn't stop right away. She went a little harder and hungrier. Her wet mouth glided over him with ease now, the obscene sound of her sucking him echoing through the bedroom. Then she suddenly pulled back with a soft gasp, saliva trailing from her lips to his cock. She looked up at him, eyes dark, lips swollen. Jalen opened his eyes and looked down at her with his eyes screaming "What the fuck?" at her.

She smiled a mischievous smile.

"I want you inside me," she said, her voice a husky command, "Now."

Jalen then lifted her effortlessly, laying her back onto the bed. Her robe was gone now, discarded somewhere in the sheets, leaving her in that barely-there lace. He leaned down and tongue kissed her, tasting himself on her lips.

His hand slid between her legs, stroking her through the lace. She was soaked. Dripping.

"Damn, girl..." he murmured, sliding the lace to the side and teasing her entrance with his fingers.

She arched against him, breathless. "Don't tease me. Just fuck me."

Jalen pulled her panties off, tossed them aside, and lined himself up, his tip pressing against her entrance. Then he slid inside her in one smooth, deep stroke. His cock pushed its way into the deepest depths, her pussy walls expanding inch by inch to make way for the massive but welcome intrusion.

Karla gasped, her legs wrapping tightly around his waist as he filled her completely. Jalen groaned, his head dropping into her neck as he bottomed out inside her.

"Goddamn, baby... you feel unreal every time."

He started to move, deep and slow at first, grinding into her with control, precision, force. Karla clawed at his back, her moans coming faster now, her whole body reacting to every thrust.

"I missed this," she whispered. "I missed you."

Jalen kissed her hard, devouring her words with his mouth as he picked up the pace, fucking her harder now, deeper. Their bodies moved in together as she ached into him as much as possible, giving him access to reach as deep as her cervix. The sheets twisted beneath them, her moans rising with every stroke.

Karla's nails dug into Jalen's back as he drove into her with deeper, more urgent thrusts. She was quite sure it hurt him how much her nails dug into him, but she also was sure that he didn't mind the pain. Her legs were locked around his waist now, holding him there, not letting him go even if she wanted to, which she absolutely didn't. Every time his hips met hers, it sent another burst of white-hot pleasure tearing through her. He was so deep, so thick, and the way he moved inside her made her feel like she was unraveling one stroke at a time.

"Jalen—fuck—right there, right there..." Karla gasped, her head tilting back as she gripped his arms, riding out the overwhelming rhythm.

Jalen gritted his teeth, sweat beginning to form along his temples as he kept thrusting, his body pressed flush against hers. "You feel that?" he growled into her neck. "That's me, every inch of me, right where I belong."

"God, yes, baby..." Karla moaned, her whole body tightening underneath him.

He shifted slightly, angling his hips to hit her deeper, harder. Karla cried out, her fingers gripping the sheets now, her entire body trembling as he hit that perfect spot over and over again.

"I'm gonna come," she warned, voice high and breathless. "Jalen—I'm—"

"Do it," he growled, thrusting harder. "Come on this dick, Karla."

That was it. Karla's body arched off the bed even more as her orgasm slammed into her, hard and fast. She cried out his name, her legs shaking, her pussy pulsing and clenching tight around him. Jalen groaned loud as hell, the way she squeezed him sending him right over the edge with her.

"FUCK—" he growled, slamming into her one last time as he emptied himself deep inside her, his release pulsing in long, hard waves spraying her walls. His arms trembled as he held himself above her, breath ragged, head spinning from how intense it was. He stayed there for a moment, still inside her, their bodies slick with sweat, and their hearts racing in sync.

Then Jalen lowered himself slowly, collapsing onto his forearms and kissing her again, slower and softer this time. Karla's fingers ran up and down his back now, her body still trembling in the aftershocks. She didn't speak. She just let herself breathe with him.

Eventually, Jalen rolled to the side, pulling her with him so that she was still tucked against his chest. One arm draped over her waist, possessive but gentle. Neither of them moved for a long time.

"I needed that," he said quietly. "With you."

Karla smiled faintly, her face buried in his chest. "I know."

A few minutes later, Jalen asks her, "How are you actually doing? With the baby and the other women and all? You've been strong and steady this whole time, but are you actually okay?"

Karla stared at the ceiling for a long moment, her fingers idly tracing along Jalen's forearm as he held her against him. She felt warm, safe, even vulnerable in a way she rarely allowed herself to be.

She turned her head slightly to look at him, studying the sincerity in his eyes. He really wants to know. That was one of the things that set Jalen apart from other men. He didn't just assume she was okay, didn't just accept the strength she presented at face value. He asked and he cared.

She exhaled deeply before speaking. "Honestly? I'm... adjusting. I won't pretend like this is how I ever pictured my life turning out, but that doesn't mean I regret it."

Jalen nodded, watching her closely. "What's been the hardest part for you?"

Karla let out a short, dry chuckle. "You mean besides being pregnant with the child of a man who has five other women in his life?" She smirked slightly, shaking her head. "I guess just... surrendering to it. I've spent my whole life being in control, making decisions that made sense, and then you walked into it, and none of this makes sense, but it feels right. That part still freaks me out sometimes."

Jalen kissed her temple. "You know you don't have to be strong all the time, right? I got you. Always."

Karla swallowed, her heart tightening at the weight of those words. She believed him.

"I know," she whispered. "And I love you for that."

Jalen tightened his arms around her. "I love you too. More than you probably even realize."

Karla closed her eyes, letting herself sink into the moment. Maybe she really could surrender to this.

"I was thinking about names for our baby, and if it's a girl, I really like the name Elena. What do you think?" Karla asks.

Jalen smiled softly, his fingers tracing lazy circles along Karla's bare back as she rested against his chest. Elena. He let the name roll through his mind, picturing a little girl with Karla's sharp wit and strong presence, maybe with his eyes.

"Elena..." he repeated, as if testing how it felt coming from his lips. "I like it. It's strong but elegant. Just like her mama."

Karla smirked at him, tilting her head up slightly. "You think so?"

Jalen nodded. "Yeah. Elena Silva-Moss. That's got a nice ring to it."

Karla's heart clenched slightly at the sound of it. She hadn't realized how much she needed to hear Jalen say it out loud, to acknowledge their child like that. It made everything feel even more real.

"So, it's official then?" she asked, raising an eyebrow. "If it's a girl, we're going with Elena?"

Jalen kissed her forehead. "Yeah. I think it's perfect."

Karla exhaled, feeling a deep sense of peace settle over her. One step closer to embracing this life with Jalen fully.

*******************************************************

Saturday morning around 10 am, Heidi meets Jalen at his apartment. She stopped at Chick fil'A and bought breakfast for the two of them. She got two chicken biscuits and an orange juice for Jalen, and a hash brown and coffee for herself. They then hop in his truck and head to the first apartment complex.

As Jalen drove through the streets of Atlanta, he glanced over at Heidi, who was sipping her coffee and scrolling through her phone. She had a determined look on her face, her focus entirely on the apartment listings she had pulled up.

"You nervous?" he asked, reaching into the Chick-fil-A bag for his second biscuit.

Heidi shook her head. "Not really nervous, just ready to be out of my parents' house. I swear, my mom's been looking at me like she knows something's up, and my dad..." She scoffed. "Well, my dad's just himself."

Jalen chuckled knowingly. "Yeah, the sooner you're in your own place, the better. You got a top choice yet?"

"Not yet," Heidi admitted. "I've narrowed it down to three. The first one we're going to is in Brookhaven, not far from Lenox Mall. It's got a gym, pool, and all that, but I'm more interested in how quiet it is. I don't want to deal with a bunch of loud-ass neighbors."

"Makes sense. What about the second one?"

"That one's in Midtown, near Piedmont Park," she said, tucking a strand of her auburn hair behind her ear. "It's pricier, but it's got 24/7 security, and the units are really nice. Hardwood floors, stainless steel appliances, a big-ass bathtub—" She shot him a look. "Which, yes, is important to me."

Jalen smirked. "I wasn't gonna say anything."

"Yeah, right," she muttered before continuing. "The third one is in Sandy Springs. It's a little further out, but it's more lowkey, and it's got the best lease terms."

Jalen nodded as he took a bite of his biscuit. "Well, whatever feels right, we'll make it happen."

Heidi glanced at him and smirked. "‘We,' huh?"

Jalen shrugged, keeping his eyes on the road. "Yeah. You think I'm not gonna be all up in your place? You know damn well I'll be over there every chance I get."

Heidi rolled her eyes but couldn't fight the warmth spreading in her chest. "Yeah, yeah. Let's just see if any of these spots are actually worth it first."

As they pulled into the parking lot of the first complex in Brookhaven, Heidi took a deep breath. This was the beginning of a new chapter. A step toward independence and securing her own life before she had to tell her parents the truth.

*******************************************************

By the end of the day, Heidi ultimately chose the apartment in Sandy Springs. She greatly appreciated how much Jalen made himself a part of this whole experience. He had scrutinized every apartment that they visited and asked questions as if the apartment would be his as much as hers.

Later, they were eating dinner at Carrabba's, and Jalen was in a playful mood and kept being handsy with her under the table.

Heidi bit her lip as she felt Jalen's hand squeeze her thigh under the table again. She shot him a look, a mix of amusement and warning, but he only smirked at her before casually taking another bite of his pasta, acting completely unbothered.

"You are so annoying," she muttered, reaching for her glass of water.

"Am I?" Jalen asked, his voice dripping with fake innocence. His fingers traced slow, teasing circles just above her knee.

Heidi let out a slow breath, trying to focus on the conversation they had been having about her move, but Jalen was making it very difficult. "You've been messing with me all day. First, in the truck. Then, in the apartment tour when you whispered in my ear about ‘testing out the shower together'—you really think I forgot about that?"

Jalen grinned. "You blushed so hard, though. I liked that."

"I did not blush—"

"You definitely blushed."

She glared at him but couldn't hide the smile tugging at the corners of her lips. "You're lucky I like you, Moss."

"Oh, I know you like me," he said, his fingers now sliding just a little higher under the table.

Heidi tensed but didn't stop him. She was trying to behave, trying to be composed, but Jalen knew exactly how to unravel her. He had been like this all day, flirting, teasing, touching her in subtle but deliberate ways, and now, with a full belly and feeling good about her new apartment, she was dangerously close to just saying, fuck it and letting him do whatever he wanted.

"Behave," she whispered, placing her hand over his to stop his slow ascent.

"Make me," Jalen challenged, his eyes dark with mischief.

Heidi exhaled sharply, feeling the heat spread between her thighs. Oh, he was playing dirty tonight.

"You better eat your damn food," she said, giving his hand a squeeze before pushing it away.

Jalen chuckled, leaning back in his seat as if he had already won. "You remember how your pops almost caught us that one time?" He asks.

Heidi raised an eyebrow, smirking as she sipped her non-alcoholic drink. "Yeah? What about it?" she asks.

Jalen leaned in closer, his voice dropping to a low, suggestive tone. "It was risky as hell but tell me that didn't turn you on a little bit."

Heidi rolled her eyes, but she can't deny the heat rushing to her face. "Shut up, Jalen."

He grinned, moving his hand further up her thigh under the table. "We could recreate a little bit of that thrill right now."

Her breath hitched as she realized where this was going. "Jalen," she warned, though her body was already responding to his touch.

He leaned in, pressing his lips close to her ear. "The family restroom here has a lock on the door."

Heidi swallowed, eyes darting around the restaurant. It was crowded but not too packed. Nobody was paying attention to them.

"You're out of your damn mind," she whispers, but Jalen can see the way her thighs pressed together under the table.

He smirked. "Come on, baby. I can't wait." His fingers grazed just a little higher, making her shudder.

She glared at him, but her resolve was already breaking. "You better make this fast," she muttered before standing up and walking toward the restrooms, trying to act natural.

Jalen watched her go grinning, waiting a moment before following. His heart was already pounding. A couple of minutes later, he joined her in the bathroom and locked the door.

"A bed would've been more comfortable..." Heidi said with her arms crossed.

Jalen stepped in close, smirking as he placed his hands on her hips. "Maybe, but where's the fun in that?" he murmured, leaning down to kiss the side of her neck.

Heidi exhaled sharply, tilting her head slightly but still keeping up her defiant stance. "You're ridiculous," she muttered, though her hands were already gripping the front of his shirt.

Jalen slid his hands down to cup her ass, pulling her flush against him. "You want this too, and you know it," he teased, his voice low and dripping with amusement.

Heidi glared up at him, but her breath was coming faster now. "If you're gonna do this, then stop wasting time."

Jalen then spun her around, pressing her up against the bathroom counter, one hand already tugging up her dress while the other gripped her chin, forcing her to look at him in the mirror.

"You sure about that?" he asked, his fingers teasing the edge of her panties.

Heidi met his gaze in the reflection, her green eyes dark with anticipation. "Jalen," she warned, her patience slipping.

He grinned again, lips brushing against her ear. "Say please."

She let out a frustrated sound, but when Jalen just smirked at her in the mirror, her resistance crumbled.

"Please," she breathed.

Jalen wasted no time, sliding her panties down just enough before hiking her dress up around her waist. His fingers grazed over her, and he smiled at how ready she already was.

"That didn't take long," he teased, running his hand up her inner thigh.

Heidi gripped the counter, biting her lip. "Shut up and do it."

Jalen chuckled lowly but obliged, positioning himself behind her and pressing his dick into her slowly. Heidi inhaled sharply, her fingers tightening around the marble countertop as his cock burrowed into her pussy.

"Fuck," she breathed, her reflection showing the mix of pleasure, pain, and anticipation in her expression.

Jalen watched her in the mirror, his hands gripping her hips as he pulled back slightly before pushing in deeper. "Look at you," he murmured, his voice thick with desire. "Taking me so good."

Heidi bit her lip, but her eyes stayed locked with his in the mirror. Something about seeing him like this, watching the way he devours her with his gaze, made her pulse quicken. It was really sexy to see him so primal like this. She may have been acting hesitant before but deep down she had always wanted him to just take her and destroy her pussy like some ravenous dog or something.

Jalen set a slow, teasing rhythm at first, dragging it out, savoring the way her pussy clenched around him. He leaned forward, one hand slipping under the front of her dress to palm her breast, his lips ghosting over the back of her neck.

"You were trying to behave," he reminded her, his breath hot against her skin.

"Shut—" Heidi tried to say, but her words turned into a muffled moan as she felt Jalen suddenly thrust into her harder, sliding his cock to the root of her pussy and back out, setting a deep, relentless pace.

The bathroom was small, but the sound of Jalen's pelvis smacking against her ass cheeks fills the space, mixing with their ragged breathing. Heidi gripped the counter for balance, her knuckles turning white.

Jalen gripped her chin again, forcing her to keep watching them in the mirror. "You love this," he murmured, his tone both possessive and adoring.

Heidi didn't deny it. She couldn't, not when her legs were already starting to tremble. Jalen felt it too, the way she tightened around him, and knowing she's close. He reached down between them, finding that sensitive spot, rubbing slow, deliberate circles to push her over the edge.

"Jalen—" she gasped, her body stiffening before the pleasure crashed over her.

Jalen groaned, watching her fall apart in the mirror, feeling her pulse around him. It was enough to tip him over too. He gripped her hips tighter, burying himself deep as he spilled his cum inside her, breathing her name like a prayer.

For a moment, the only sound was their heavy breathing, both of them trying to steady themselves. Heidi met his gaze in the mirror, her cheeks flushed, her hair slightly messy, her lips parted.

Jalen smirked, leaning down to kiss the back of her neck. "Guess we're even now."

Heidi rolled her eyes again but couldn't hide her own smirk. "Shut up and help me fix my dress before we get caught."

Five minutes later, after she straightened out her dress and reapplied her nude-colored lipstick, she turned around and wrapped her arms around him.

"I'll admit, that was pretty hot though." She said smiling and planting a soft kiss on his lips

Jalen grinned, his hands resting on her waist as he pulled her closer. "Yeah? You gonna start trusting my bad ideas more often?" he teased, pressing another lingering kiss to her lips.

Heidi hummed, pretending to think about it. "Mmm... maybe. But don't push your luck."

Jalen chuckled, brushing a loose strand of her auburn hair behind her ear. "You love it when I push my luck."

She smirked, running her nails lightly down his chest. "Shut up and let's get back to our food before they send someone looking for us."

Jalen reluctantly let her go, watching as she gives herself one last check in the mirror before unlocking the door. They stepped out into the hallway, scanning to make sure no one was paying them any attention before casually walking back toward their table.

As they sat down, Heidi took a sip of her water, her expression cool and composed like nothing just happened. Jalen, however, smiled knowingly at her, stretching his arm along the back of the booth, his fingers lightly tracing along her shoulder.

"You good?" he asked, voice low, still laced with amusement.

Heidi shot him a look, but there was a spark in her eyes. "Eat your food, Jalen."

*******************************************************

That night at 1 am. Jalen was spooning Heidi in his bed, both of them naked after having more sex before bed. Heidi was sound asleep softly snoring softly. Jalen was still awake when he saw his phone light up. It was a text notification from Chrysti. Jalen carefully removed himself from Heidi without waking her and retrieved his phone. He read Chrysti's text:

Chrysti: "Jalen, I don't know if I can do this"

Jalen: "Do what?"

Chrysti: "You"

Jalen got up out of the bed and went out into the living room and called Chrysti.

"Chrysti what's up? Talk to me." He could tell Chrysti had been crying.

"Jalen, I just don't know. I don't know if I can do this...A baby? Sharing you with six other women? It just feels like too much. I want you, but I don't know if I'll ever be okay with all of this..."

Jalen exhaled, running a hand over his face as he leaned against the couch. He expected this. Chrysti had been wrestling with her feelings for him from the beginning, but hearing the emotion in her voice, the doubt, the fear, it still cut deep.

"Chrysti..." His voice is steady, calm. "I hear you, and I'm not gonna sit here and tell you that this isn't a lot. That it's not crazy or complicated, because it is, but I know how I feel about you. I know what we have is real, and I know you feel it too."

A shaky breath came through the phone. "I do. That's the problem. I feel too much, Jalen, and that scares the hell out of me."

Jalen nodded, even though she couldn't see him. "I get that. I really do, but you don't have to have all the answers right now. You don't have to figure everything out tonight. Just talk to me. Let me be here for you."

There was a long silence, and for a moment, he wondered if she's going to hang up. Then, finally, she spoke, her voice barely above a whisper. "I don't want to lose myself in this. I don't want to wake up one day and realize I gave everything to a man who could never fully be mine."

Jalen closed his eyes, his grip tightening around the phone. "You don't have to lose yourself, Chrysti. I don't want that for you. I want you to be you, to chase your dreams, live your life, do what makes you happy, but I also want you in my life, however that looks, whatever that means for us... I'm willing to figure it out."

Chrysti sniffled. "And what if I never come to terms with it? What if I can't be like the others? What if I can't share you the way they do?"

Jalen's heart clenched. He wouldn't lie to her or feed her empty promises. "Then I'll respect that. If this isn't what you want, I'll never try to force you to stay in something that doesn't make you happy, but I need you to be honest with yourself, Chrysti. Is it really that you can't do this or are you just scared to?"

Silence. A long, painful silence.

Finally, she exhaled. "I don't know," she admits. "I just don't know."

Jalen nodded, his voice gentle. "Then let's take it one step at a time. No pressure. No expectations. Just... us."

Chrysti let out a soft, broken laugh. "You make it sound so easy."

"It's not," Jalen said honestly. "But that doesn't mean it's not worth it."

Another pause. Then, softer this time, "I need to think."

Jalen swallowed the lump in his throat. "Okay."

"I'll... I'll text you later." She said softly.

"Take your time," he told her. "I'm not going anywhere."

She didn't respond, just ended the call. Jalen stared at his phone for a long time before finally setting it down. He exhaled heavily, rubbing a hand over his head before heading back to the bedroom.

As he slid under the covers, Heidi stirred slightly, instinctively nuzzling into his chest. Jalen wrapped an arm around her, but his mind was elsewhere.

Chrysti was slipping away, and there was nothing he could do but wait.

*******************************************************

On Sunday, Jalen was buying groceries at Publix when he noticed a guy who somehow kept ending up in the same aisles as him. His instincts kicked in immediately. He didn't like coincidences, especially not with everything going on with Chris and Megan's case.

The man was unassuming, mid-40s, white, dressed in a casual button-down and jeans, blending in with the Sunday morning grocery crowd, but he was not actually shopping. His cart was nearly empty, and Jalen caught him pretending to look at products whenever their eyes met. Jalen decided to test him. He abruptly changed direction, heading toward the frozen foods section. The guy hesitated but followed shortly after.

Someone was trying to keep tabs on Jalen. Instead of confronting the man immediately, Jalen remained calm. He finished his shopping and headed towards the checkout line, subtly keeping the guy in his peripheral vision. Once he paid and exited the store, he took a calculated risk, walking past his truck and toward an alleyway behind the store. If this man followed him there, Jalen would have all the confirmation he needed. Sure enough, footsteps followed him into the alley. Jalen turned around fast, the moment the guy stepped forward, Jalen was in his space, gripping his collar and pushing him back against the brick wall.

"Alright, motherfucker, who sent you?" Jalen growled.

The man stammered, clearly not expecting Jalen to confront him so aggressively.

"W-wait, hold on, man—"

Jalen didn't loosen his grip. His patience was gone.

"Don't play dumb. You've been following me the whole damn time. Who hired you?"

The man sighed, realizing he was caught. "Look, I don't want trouble. I was just hired to watch you, that's it."

"By whom?"

The man didn't answer at first, but Jalen tightened his grip just enough to make his point.

"...Chris Westward."

Bingo. Jalen let go of the guy but kept his glare locked in. "You tell him I saw you, and that I'm not the one he needs to be worried about."

The man nodded quickly, clearly shaken. Jalen watched him scramble away before heading back to his truck.

*******************************************************

Karla was mid-conversation with her friend, Gabrielle, at brunch, sipping on her decaf coffee, when her phone buzzed. She saw Jalen's name on the screen and immediately knew it was something important. He wouldn't interrupt her Sunday brunch unless it was serious.

"Sorry, I need to take this," she told Gabrielle before stepping away from the table and answering.

"Jalen? What's wrong?"

Jalen wasted no time. "Chris hired a PI to follow me. I caught the guy at Publix."

Karla stopped in her tracks. "You're sure?"

"I confronted him. He admitted it. Chris is digging, Karla. He's looking for leverage."

Karla exhaled sharply, her legal mind already running through scenarios. This was bad.

"Did you threaten the guy? Hurt him?" she asked, already considering how Chris might try to spin this against Jalen.

"No," Jalen assured her. "I pressed him for info, but I let him go. Told him to let Chris know I saw him."

Karla pinches the bridge of her nose. "Damn it. This means he's not just trying to avoid the divorce. He's going on the offensive. He wants dirt on you, Megan, and anyone close to this."

"I figured, but what exactly is he hoping to find? Megan's clean. I'm clean."

Karla's stomach turned. There was one thing. Chris didn't know that Megan was pregnant or who fathered her child. He might've been trying to connect dots, and if he figured out she was pregnant and Jalen was the father, he could try to use that as leverage in court or worse.

"We need to be careful, Jalen." Karla's voice was firm now. "Chris is a lawyer. He plays dirty. He might not be able to dig up anything real, but if he can manufacture something, get under your skin, bait you into reacting then he will."

"I hear you. So, what's the move?"

Karla glanced back at Gabrielle, knowing she needed to get back soon, but her focus was now completely on this.

"We need to tell Megan immediately. She needs to be extra careful. She already knew to avoid being seen with you in public, but now she should assume she's being watched at all times. And you, Jalen, if you see anyone else following you, don't confront them again. Just document it. Time, place, and details. We need to make sure Chris doesn't twist this in his favor."

Jalen hated the idea of just letting someone tail him, but he trusted Karla's judgment.

"Alright. I'll call Megan now."

"Good. And Jalen?" Karla paused, lowering her voice. "I know you're trying to stay calm, but... this is war now."

Jalen's jaw tightened. He already knew that, but hearing Karla say it out loud made it feel a lot more real.

*******************************************************

Heidi sat at the dinner table with her parents, her fingers lightly gripping the stem of her water glass as she braced herself for the conversation ahead. The smell of her mother's home-cooked roast and potatoes filled the dining room, but Heidi's appetite was nowhere to be found. She had practiced what she was going to say over and over in her head, keeping her tone light, casual, like this wasn't a big deal. She knew better, though. Everything was a big deal to her parents.

Taking a deep breath, she set her glass down. "So... I have some news." She kept her tone upbeat but measured. "I'm moving into a new apartment in Sandy Springs."

The room went still.

Her father, Tim, set his fork down, his jaw tightening. "Why?"

Her mother, Sylvia, blinked in surprise, clearly taken aback. "Sandy Springs? What? Why would you want to move that far?"

Heidi was prepared for this. "It just makes the most sense with my new schedule. Law school is only getting more demanding, and now that I've started working as a TA, commuting back and forth from Bartow County is just going to be too much. Sandy Springs is way more central, it'll cut my drive time significantly."

Tim exhaled sharply, already irritated. "This is ridiculous, Heidi. You have a perfectly good home here. You don't need to be wasting money on some overpriced apartment just because you ‘don't feel like commuting.'"

Heidi fought the urge to roll her eyes. Here we go.

"It's not just about the commute, Dad. I need to be independent. I need my own space."

Sylvia folded her hands together, frowning. "Sweetheart, we just don't see why you need to live so far from home. We're your parents, we're here to help you. And Sandy Springs? Really? You know Fulton County is a disaster, right? It's run by a bunch of liberals who don't know the first thing about—"

"Oh my God, Mom, can we not make this about politics?" Heidi cut in, already exasperated.

Tim leaned back in his chair, shaking his head. "It's not just politics, Heidi. You know what kind of people live there. Crime is higher, it's overpopulated, and don't get me started on the kind of riffraff that hangs around those areas."

Heidi's stomach twisted at the blatant undertone of his words. "The ‘kind of people'? Jesus, Dad, just say what you really mean."

Tim narrowed his eyes. "Watch your tone."

Sylvia reached out as if to calm things down. "We just want you to be safe, honey. That's all. You're a young, beautiful woman. If something happens to you out there, we won't be close by to help."

Heidi took a slow, deep breath. She knew this wasn't just about safety or money. This was about control and keeping her in the conservative bubble they'd built for her. That bubble had already popped though.

"I appreciate your concern. Really, I do," she said, softening her voice slightly. "But this is my decision. I've already signed the lease, and I move in next month."

Tim stared at her; his face unreadable. Then he scoffed. "Unbelievable."

Sylvia looked at her with something like disappointment. "We just don't understand why you'd want to leave the home you grew up in."

"Because I'm pregnant with a black man's baby, and if I stay here, you'll find out sooner than I want you to." Heidi thought.

Heidi swallowed the bitter truth, instead keeping her expression neutral. "Because I need to start my own life. That's all."

Her parents didn't like it, but there wasn't a damn thing they could do about it.

*******************************************************

Later that evening, Heidi is in her room studying when her younger sister Leslie walks in and shuts the door. She sits on her bed and says something that rocks Heidi's world:

"So how long have you and Jalen been a thing?"

Heidi's heart nearly stopped. Her grip tightened on the highlighter in her hand as she stared at her open law book, her brain slamming the emergency brakes on whatever she had been reading. Slowly, she turned her head to look at her younger sister, Leslie, who was casually sitting on her bed like she hadn't just dropped a bomb in the middle of Heidi's life.

"Excuse me?" Heidi tried to keep her voice level, but she could already feel her pulse pounding in her throat.

Leslie raised an eyebrow, crossing her arms. "You heard me."

"Shit. Shit. Shit. Shit." Heidi thought.

Leslie wasn't stupid. Heidi knew that. Her little sister had always been sharp, always watching things more closely than people realized. She was 19 now, a college freshman, and unlike their parents, she wasn't blindly trapped in the same conservative mindset. She was also annoyingly persistent.

Heidi forced herself to breathe, keeping her expression neutral. "Leslie, I have no idea what you're talking about."

Leslie rolled her eyes. "Oh, come on, Heidi. You think I'm dumb? You've been acting different for over a month. Always sneaking off, smiling at your phone, suddenly talking about moving out? Now you're seeing apartments in Sandy Springs, of all places? Please."

Heidi clenched her jaw. She had been so careful. So careful.

Leslie leaned forward, lowering her voice. "Look, I don't care what Mom and Dad think. I just want to know the truth. Are you with Jalen?"

Heidi's breath hitched. She was trapped. She could lie and deny everything. She could try to throw Leslie off, but...something about the way Leslie was looking at her made it clear. Leslie already knew. She just wanted confirmation. Also, if Leslie knew about her and Jalen...could she also know about the baby?

A wave of panic surged through Heidi's chest, but she fought to keep her face composed. She needed to handle this carefully.

Finally, she set her highlighter down and turned fully to face her sister. "Why do you want to know?" she asked cautiously.

Leslie shrugged. "Because you're my sister. And because I think it's pretty badass that you're secretly rebelling against Dad." A smirk tugged at her lips. "Especially with a guy that fine."

Heidi blinked, caught completely off guard. "Wait. What?"

Leslie grinned. "What? You think I didn't notice? That man is hot, and I know you. You wouldn't be sneaking around for just anyone."

Heidi opened her mouth, then closed it again. Of all the reactions she expected, this was not one of them.

Leslie wasn't mad, disgusted, or judging her. She was lowkey impressed.

Still, Heidi wasn't about to give up everything so easily. She narrowed her eyes. "Does anyone else suspect this?"

Leslie shook her head. "Nope. Mom and Dad are clueless, but if you're really trying to keep this under wraps, you should probably be more careful."

Heidi exhaled slowly, feeling like the ground beneath her had just shifted. She had spent so much energy hiding this from her family, preparing for the inevitable explosion, but now...her little sister had found out first, and instead of ruining everything, Leslie was offering her silence.

Heidi studied her carefully. "You really don't care?"

Leslie scoffed. "Heidi, I've been questioning half the crap Mom and Dad say for years now. I'm not some brainwashed idiot. Besides, if he makes you happy, then good for you."

Something in Heidi's chest loosened. Her little sister, the one person in her family she truly still cared about keeping in her life, was on her side.

But then, Leslie's smirk faded slightly. "There's just one thing I don't get," she said, tilting her head. "Why are you moving out now? What aren't you telling me?"

Heidi exhaled sharply and met Leslie's gaze. She figured there was no point in hiding the truth from Leslie any longer.

"Yes, Jalen and I are a thing," She said, "And the reason why I'm moving out is because I'm pregnant, and I fully expect Mom and Dad to disown me when I eventually tell them."

Leslie's mouth dropped open. For a full three seconds, she didn't speak. Just stared, wide-eyed, the air between them thick and buzzing with shock.

"You're... what?"

Heidi swallowed hard. "Pregnant."

A silence settled over the room, dense and heavy. Leslie's brain was clearly catching up to the words she'd just heard. Her expression shifted rapidly between shock, confusion, and then something else entirely. Concern. Real, deep concern.

"Holy shit," Leslie whispered, standing up and pacing the room like she suddenly couldn't sit still. "You're serious? You're really... pregnant? Like, now? Already?"

Heidi nodded slowly, eyes not leaving her sister. "I'm almost two months."

Leslie turned sharply. "And it's Jalen's?"

"Yes."

Another wave of silence crashed into the room, but this one felt different. More loaded.

Leslie rubbed her temples, pacing again. "Heidi... this is... this is huge. Mom and Dad are gonna fucking lose it."

Heidi let out a breath. "Yeah. I know."

"No, like... lose it, lose it. Dad will lose his mind. He might actually try to do something crazy."

"I know."

Leslie stopped pacing and turned to face her sister, crossing her arms. "And you're telling me now because...?"

"Well, you asked, number one, but also because you figured out enough already, and I needed someone in this damn house to know the truth before I go insane," Heidi said, her voice cracking just a little. "I've been hiding morning sickness, cravings, hormone swings, and emotions I can't even begin to explain. I've been going through all of that while pretending to be this perfect daughter, and I just... I couldn't keep pretending with you."

Leslie softened. She walked over, sat back down on the bed, and took Heidi's hand.

"I'm glad you told me," she said quietly. "Even if it's a lot."

Heidi blinked fast, her throat tightening. "You're not... disappointed?"

Leslie laughed softly. "Heidi, I don't care about that. I mean, yeah, it's wild, and yeah, it's gonna get messy, but you're still you."

Heidi finally let herself relax, just a little. Her hand tightened around Leslie's.

"I'm scared," she admitted.

"I bet," Leslie said. "But you're also strong, and clearly... stubborn as hell, which makes me confident you're gonna be okay."

They sat in silence for a moment before Leslie added, "Also... if that baby's half Jalen, it's probably gonna come out gorgeous."

Heidi let out a weak laugh, wiping at her eyes. "Shut up."

Leslie grinned. "No, seriously. I mean, I get why you kept it a secret. Dad's gonna go nuclear, but you've got me now, and I'm not going anywhere."

Heidi swallowed hard, nodding. "Thank you."

Leslie leaned back. "Just promise me one thing?"

"What?"

"When you tell them... don't do it alone."

Heidi nodded again, slower this time. "Okay."

Leslie smirked. "Also, I'm calling dibs on favorite aunt."

Heidi smiled through the emotion. "Obviously."

And for the first time in weeks, she didn't feel quite so alone.

*******************************************************

The house was now quiet aside from the faint hum of the dishwasher in the kitchen. Heidi had been in her room for the past hour, pretending to study but really stressing about how to handle Leslie's revelation earlier. Her younger sister knew about her and Jalen, and while thankfully she wasn't judging, it was still one more person who knew her secret, and one more way her whole plan could unravel.

She was about to head to the bathroom when she passed by her parents' bedroom door, which was slightly ajar. That's when she heard it.

Her mother's voice, hushed but firm.

"I don't know, Tim. Something seems off. This feels like such a rash decision and doesn't seem like our Heidi."

Heidi froze in the hallway. Her heartbeat picked up as she inched closer, making sure to stay out of sight.

Tim Horner sighed heavily.

"You think I don't know that? She just decides to move to Sandy Springs out of nowhere? She barely even flinched when we questioned it. That's not our daughter, and she's talking about making enough money from her TA job to afford an apartment when she has a perfectly loving, comfortable home here? When has Heidi ever wanted to be that far away from us?"

Heidi's fingers curled into a tight fist at her side. Of course, she thought bitterly. Of course, her father couldn't accept that maybe she was making her own decisions, and that maybe she didn't want to be under his thumb forever. Her mother sounded concerned.

"Do you think... someone influenced her?"

There was a brief silence. Heidi could almost hear her father grinding his teeth.

Tim's voice dropped lower.

"I don't know. But I intend to find out."

Heidi's stomach dropped.

She turned and quickly walked back to her room, shutting the door quietly behind her. Her breathing was fast, and she pressed her hands to her face.

"Shit. Shit. Shit." She thought.

Her father was onto her. If he started digging, he might find out more than just her move. He might start asking questions about her finances, about who she's been around, about Jalen.

Heidi sat on the edge of her bed, heart pounding. She needed to warn Jalen, and she needed to decide if she was going to speed up her timeline. Because one thing was clear: She was running out of time.

*******************************************************

Text from Heidi to Jalen: "How soon can you finish the guest house?"

Jalen: "No sooner than Wednesday. Why?"

Heidi: "The sooner the better. My parents know something is up. They don't know what though, at least not yet, but my dad is determined to figure it out. Jalen, this is getting dicey. We probably shouldn't be seen talking at all at the house anymore. We need to get you paid and me out of here ASAP."

Jalen: "Understood. I'll push my crew harder. Wednesday at the latest. If I can get it done sooner, I will. Just keep your head down and don't do anything that makes them more suspicious. We're almost there."

Jalen stared at the text for a long moment after sending it. Shit was escalating fast. Tim Horner was deeply prejudiced, arrogant, and controlling, but he wasn't dumb. Jalen exhaled slowly and rolled his shoulders, trying to loosen the tension building in his body.

He needed to finish the guest house, get paid, and get out of there before Tim sniffed out the truth.

Jalen: "Be careful. Don't let them bait you into an argument. If they start asking questions, play dumb. Act like this is just about school and work. If they figure out the truth before we're ready, it could screw everything up."

He stared at his phone, waiting. A minute later, Heidi responded.

Heidi: "I know. I'll handle them. Just get that house done and get your money."

Jalen exhaled, running a hand over his face. Then suddenly he thought of something else.

Jalen: "Heidi. Delete all your text messages and pictures of me. I don't think we should take any chances. He might try to go through your phone."

Heidi: "Shit. You're right. Doing it now."

A moment later.

Heidi: "Deleted everything. No texts, no pictures, nothing linking us."

Jalen: "If he asks about what guys you're seeing, tell him you've been too focused on school and work to date. Act annoyed, like he's being overprotective. That'll make it sound like he's just being paranoid."

Heidi to Jalen: "That won't be hard. He's already pissing me off."

Jalen smiled at the text but didn't let himself relax. They weren't in the clear yet. Tim Horner was a stubborn, prideful man. If he really thought something was off, he wouldn't just drop it.

*******************************************************

Monday night, Jalen arrived at Sydney's apartment and was surprised to see that Kristen was there as well. Jalen raised an eyebrow as he stepped inside, his eyes flicking between Sydney and Kristen, who were both lounging comfortably on the couch with their sparkling waters in hand.

"Well, this is a surprise," he said with a smirk, shutting the door behind him.

Kristen grinned. "Yeah, well, don't act like you're not happy to see me."

Jalen chuckled as he walked toward them. "You know I'm always happy to see you. Just didn't expect you to be here."

Sydney smirked. "I told you before, Kristen and I are cool now. We decided to have a girls' night. Talk about life, pregnancy, and... well... you."

Jalen exhaled dramatically, shaking his head. "Ah, hell. Should I be worried?"

Kristen laughed. "I don't know, Jalen. What do you think we were saying about you?" Jalen sat down in the chair across from them, rubbing his chin. "If I had to guess? Probably about how much of a handful I am, how you don't know how I do it, and how you're still wrapping your heads around this whole situation."

Sydney and Kristen exchanged a look, then burst out laughing.

"Damn, he's good," Sydney said, shaking her head.

Kristen sipped her drink, smirking. "Yeah, you pretty much nailed it."

Jalen leaned back, folding his arms. "Figured. But since I'm here now, do I get to defend myself, or is this a one-sided roast session?"

Sydney patted the spot on the couch next to her. "Come sit down, babe. We were just talking about you, but now you can talk with us."

Jalen took his seat, his arm casually draping around Sydney's shoulders as he looked over at Kristen. "So, what's the verdict? Am I the worst?"

Kristen smirked but then softened, shaking her head. "No, Jalen. You're actually the best, which is kind of why this is so crazy."

Sydney nodded in agreement. "You make it impossible to hate you, even when we want to. Even when we know this situation is insane, we can't help but love you anyway."

Jalen exhaled, glancing between them. "I know it's a lot, and I don't take any of this for granted. I'm lucky as hell to have you both in my life."

Kristen gave him a teasing smile. "Yeah, yeah. You're smooth, but tell me something, Jalen. Since you walked in here and found us together, what's the first thought that crossed your mind?"

Jalen smirked. "Y'all really wanna know?"

Sydney and Kristen exchanged another glance before Kristen tilted her head. "Yeah. Be honest."

Jalen leaned forward slightly, his voice dropping. "First thought? That this might be the sexiest surprise I've ever walked into."

Sydney and Kristen both rolled their eyes at the same time, but their smirks gave them away.

"God, you really are a man," Sydney sighed playfully.

Kristen chuckled. "Yeah, I should've seen that coming."

Jalen grinned. "What? I love seeing the women I love getting along. Sue me."

Kristen shook her head, sipping her drink. "You're impossible."

Sydney, still smirking, nudged Jalen. "You're lucky we like you so much."

Jalen kissed her on the temple before turning his attention back to Kristen. "You too."

Kristen exhaled and smiled. "Yeah. I know."

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