It is What it is: A Hood Love Story

By Ivory B.

Can you find true love in the hood? Follow three best friends as they try to find love in the city of brotherly love, better known as Philly. Louchanna aka Lucky an unassuming, innocent college girl meets a young boss by the name of Carlos. Their instant love affair turns out to be anything but perfect or fairytale. Lucky finds out that being a boss’s wifey comes with its many luxuries as well as its equal share of downsides.

Whoever says you have to let the past stay in the past? That’s not the case for Keema who’s suddenly faced with a tough decision. What’s a girl to do when her past wants a place in her future? Her first love Jah is back to claim the heart he once left shattered. Can people really change? Or does the old saying ‘you can’t teach an old dog new tricks,’ stand true?
Ty, Lucky’s cousin strives on being the poster child of the independent woman in Corporate America. While her career and ambitions are on track her love life is the total opposite. After an unforgettable one night stand Ty can’t seem to get Nice out of her system no matter who she’s with. Deep down she feels that he could be the one to show her what real love is, despite the odds stacked against their budding love.

Buckle up and come along for this roller coaster ride of drama. Strap up and be prepared to ride along with these girls as they experience love and life. Many things will change in their lives but one thing that will never is the bond and sisterhood they share. Is there really such a thing as finding love in the hood? Find the answer to that question in this drama packed book filled with sex, betrayal, drugs, murder, and hood love.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Ivory B.
• Release date: Feb 5, 2014
• ISBN: 9780991259311

Ivory B.

New Author and publisher in Urban Lit.

Book preview

The Beginning

Lucky rolled her eyes with annoyance as she looked down at her phone screen before pressing the off button. In her haste to make it to class on time she'd forgotten to put the phone on vibrate. Her negligence resulted in her phone ringing loudly during an exam. Despite, hurriedly searching through her Gucci purse to turn her phone off, Professor Magnie cut his eyes at her as if her ringing phone was the biggest distraction he'd ever encountered in all the years of his teaching career.

Half an hour later, she stood before his desk handing in her exam, which she'd completed considerably faster than many of her classmates who were still hard at work on their exams. Her professor didn't waste the opportunity to check her for the phone incident. As adults in higher education one should know to take others into consideration, by placing electronic devices on mute before entering an exam, Professor Magnie said in a condescending tone. Lucky's chinky green eyes slanted into evil slits before she pressed her lips together to keep some fly shit from slipping out. She didn't care what anyone said, Professor Magnie was a closet racist who seemed to get annoyed with the fact she excelled in his class. Although, today was clearly her fault for not remembering to turn off her phone. He continuously looked for anything to nitpick about when it came to her and several other black students. It was an accident, it won't happen again, Lucky said dryly. Despite the fact she really wanted to cuss his ass out for trying to publicly chastise her as if she were his child.

Not even 5 minutes from the time she powered her phone back on her cousin Shasona was calling again. She had no idea what her cousin wanted, for that reason she'd been dodging her phone calls on both her home and cell phone for the last couple of days. It was actually odd that Shasona was blowing her phone down anyways. Yes, they were first cousins, but they weren't exactly close. As a matter of fact they were like night and day, they really had nothing in common besides their blood line.

Naturally Lucky was very close to her cousin Tyeena aka Ty. They considered each other more sisters than cousin's since Lucky was adopted and raised by Ty's parents only months shy of her 6th birthday after her mother passed away from cervical cancer. Lucky's mother's brother Kevin and his wife Tina took her in without hesitation when no one else in the family volunteered. Tragedy seemed to follow Lucky wherever she went because her Uncle was killed while on the job working construction for the city of Philadelphia when she was only 10 and Ty was 12. His death both devastated and divided the entire family.

Tina's homemaker days were suddenly over and she was now thrust into the real world of finding a job and raising two girls on her own. The three of them were all they had; no other family lent a helping hand when Kevin who was the bread winner for the family passed away. There were times when things got rough. Lighting the house with candles or heating the house with space heaters and the oven became a norm when paying a bill or two came second to putting food on the table. Tina filed a wrongful death suit against the city of Philadelphia and after two years of legal wrangling, the city settled the wrongful death suit for 1.5 million dollars. Still no amount of money could ever compensate for the loss of a beloved husband, father and uncle. Tina never experienced the feeling of closure or vindication she desperately sought when she originally filed the lawsuit. The money did nothing to ease her grief and she would surely trade it all to have her husband back. However, the money provided her with the means to give the girls the type of life she never had growing up.

That's when shit got real. For the average person 1 million dollars sounds like big money so 1.5 had people especially family members going Ape. The same people who wouldn't lend a helping hand during hard times now had their hands out waiting to be greased. Those people included everyone from Kevin's mother to his sister Mae, Shasona and Latoya's mother. Kevin's family felt that being family alone entitled them to some type of compensation. Family feud is an understatement to what happened when Tina told Kevin's family who were suddenly stopping by and ringing the phone off the hook to kick rocks. Lucky's grandmother and Aunt Mae filed lawsuits against Tina, after coming to her home and trying to beat the brakes off her ass in front of both Lucky and Ty. The lawsuits were ultimately dismissed since Tina was his wife and primary beneficiary. After the courts determined that Tina didn't have to legally give the family anything she still voluntarily gave his mother and sister what she felt they deserved and that didn't sit too well with them, thus the rift began.

Over the years the family had become amicable but never close. The long standing beef in the family resulted in the girls, although first cousin's not having the close relationship they could've had otherwise. There was never a question of where Lucky's loyalty lied, it was with the woman who took her in and raised her as her own, and continued to do so even when her husband who was Lucky's real blood passed away.

Ty lived back in Philly and was currently working towards her MBA at Temple University, while working at a financial investment firm. Lucky was the only one who had moved 4 hours away from Philly where she was born and raised to attend college in Connecticut. She attended SCSU Southern Connecticut State University. It wasn't IV league but her high GPA from high school got her nearly a free ride her first year there. She liked the vibe of Connecticut and decided to stay out there for the remainder of her schooling. That decision nearly killed both Tina and Ty since the three of them were so close, they weren't too happy that Lucky chose to go to school out of state. Lucky talked to (Matoo) is what she affectionately called Tina, everyday and Ty sometimes two or three times a day. Going home on weekends, breaks, holidays and summers was always a plus for Lucky simply because she had both Ty and Matoo fighting and fussing over her. Lucky now in her junior year of college working towards her Bachelor's degree in Biology with a minor in Psychology, on top of having a job rarely had any free time. She was what some people would call an undercover nerd. One would probably assume just by looking at her that she was all beauty, fashion and no brains but that was the furthest thing from the truth.

Shasona and her sister Latoya were polar opposites of Ty and Lucky; the two sister's names rang bells back in Philly. They had made quite a name for themselves as being hoes. Lucky was almost sure that Latoya was going to grow wings any day now, she was a certified bird. She was sweet as pie but nasty as hell and that was putting it in its simplest terms. It seemed as if Toya fucked for sport. She didn't discriminate either; she would fuck a man who was blind, crippled or crazy she just didn't care. Then there was Nona, she was a whole other story. The girl refused to become gainfully employed; she had big dreams of becoming a kept woman by any means necessary. Shasona called herself hustling niggaz but she always seemed to be the one who got hustled. She bagged get money niggaz for the sole purpose of getting them to take care of her but she was always broke. They never hit her off with anything bigger than crumbs. Lucky still couldn't figure the rationale in her cousin's thinking. Was that the same thing as niggaz hustlin backwards but in Nona's case it would be gold digging backwards?

Lucky answered her phone reluctantly not really caring to deal with the bullshit her cousin was most likely on. Hello. Lucky said while rushing to the parking lot to get her car. Damn, Lucky you can't return my calls? I been calling ya ass for the last couple of days. Yeah I know I'm sorry, been busy with exams but what's up? Nona paused, Lucky I need you to do me a solid and come out on this double date with me. Lucky screwed her face up like hell no. One had to know her cousin to know exactly why no one in their right mind would want to be mixed up in the type of dudes she messed with. You still on that bullshit about some date Nona? I thought you were calling about something different, girl hell nah! Lucky rolled her eyes; Shasona had called earlier that week leaving a message on her voicemail about some double date on Friday. Damn Lucky why you acting stank? Why won't you just come? Pleeeease Lucky. Do your big cousin this one favor, Nona begged sounding desperate. Lucky hesitated, something didn't seem right about this whole situation, why her? Why didn't Nona ask her sister or one of her girls? Why don't you just ask Toya to go with you? You know she would rock with you for sure. Better yet, why didn't you ask Ty? Or your girl Des? They right there in Philly. I'm way in Connecticut that doesn't even sound right. What am I supposed to do? Drive back to Philly tomorrow just to go out with you and some dudes I don't even know? Nona had to think fast on her feet. Lucky didn't sound like she was going to take the bait and if she wouldn't go Nona was pretty much assed out.

Lucky I asked you cause you live right there in CT. You don't have to drive back to Philly. Like I told you in the voicemail I left, we can come scoop you up since we coming to Connecticut anyways to fuck wit the casino out there. Lucky c'mon, tomorrow's Friday. What else ya ass gotta do? I would've asked Toya but she already got something to do. And you know damn well why I ain't ask Ty. You know we can't stand each other for more than an hour. We like oil and water we don't mix, Nona said with a laugh.

Nona hated that she had to beg her uppity ass acting cousin for anything but her back was up against the wall. She needed Lucky to agree to go with her because she really had no one else to ask. Her first attempt at going out of town with Nice failed miserably when his conceited ass brother bailed out on them on the way to the casino once he found out Toya was supposed to be the chick keeping him company. Knowing how Nice moved he wasn't going to CT by himself, so his brother was tagging along, which left her trying to get someone to keep him company. Besides, she had already confirmed with Nice that her cousin was coming before Lucky had even agreed, that's why she was so adamant that Lucky say yes.

By now Nona had just about worn Lucky down with all the begging. Lucky exhaled with defeat loudly, Okay, okay I'll go. But don't expect me to give the nigga no play. Ahhhhhh! Yes! Yes! Yes! Nona screamed for joy. Lucky had to snatch the phone from her ear due to all the screaming. Lucky on some real shit you won't be disappointed, you gon thank me later, trust Nona said excitedly. These muthafuckas are caked up, straight Duncan Hines girl! Lucky rolled her eyes as her cousin went on and on sounding thirsty as hell. And the nigga Nice I'm fuckin wit is in line to be my next baby daddy, real talk. I need a nigga like that in my life to take care of me. If I play my cards right tomorrow I'll be conceiving. You know all it takes is a lil poke, poke in a condom with a safety pin and a bitch set for life. Ya heard? Lucky froze dead in her tracks as she went to press the start button to power her ignition. See this was the shit Lucky was talking about when it came to her cousin. She didn't want to get caught up in one of Nona's get rich or die trying schemes. Um, Nona, Lucky began. Shasona sensed the apprehension in Lucky's voice and knew she had to clean up that last statement or Lucky's scary ass would pull out, and she couldn't have that. Lucky you know I was just playin. I said that to see if you was paying attention. But listen, I gotta go, I'll hit you up tomorrow when I'm on my way. Just make sure you ready cause a bitch tryna hit up them outlet malls down by you. I heard they be having mad shit there, I'ma make that nigga spend some gwap on me, a'ight see you tomorrow, Nona said before hanging up. Oh god, what the hell did I just get myself into? Lucky spat while looking at her phone.

Today was Friday and Lucky couldn't help but feel slightly irritated as she texted her cousin directions for the second time to the campus student center. The student center was located in the middle of campus and one of the biggest buildings on campus. Somehow, her cousin couldn't seem to find it and her aggravation was starting to show through her texts, like the last one she sent in all caps. Lucky took a deep breath trying to calm herself from getting upset. This was her own fault for even agreeing to some crazy shit like this in the first place. It was a little too late to change her mind now or complain, since her cousin and companions were already on campus somewhere. Lucky's phone dinged as she browsed through tees in the bookstore inside the student center. WHERE R U? WE HERE, I DON'T SEE YOU. If there was one thing she couldn't stand that was to be rushed. Her cousin was acting as if she was doing Lucky a favor and it wasn't the other way around. Lucky wasn't feeling this shit no way, and that's exactly why she didn't put much effort into dressing up for this so called date. Nope, she was wearing exactly what she wore to take her exams today.

Lucky was rockin comfortable attire. A fitted three quarter length tee that had the words SCSU written across the front. Dark denim Armani skinny jeans and a pair of UGG woven boots with the cute buttons on the side of them. She looked like any other female student walking around campus as far as her attire. However, her natural beauty definitely made her stand out amongst the rest. She stopped at one of the full length mirrors in the bookstore for the hell of it. Running her fingers through her long dark brown tresses styled in big loose curls, she decided to place a fresh coat of MAC lip gloss on her pouty full lips. Her green eyes were almost doe like but slanted exotically in the corners giving them a chinky look. Standing at 5'5 with a mocha complexion and a small shapely figure Lucky was the definition of a dime, although she was very humble about her beauty which made her likable. Unlike some attractive women Lucky never bragged or flaunted her beauty. She tossed her hair over her shoulder to hang down her back to only sweep it back over her shoulders seconds later, unsure about how to wear it. Oh well, what the hell? I really don't care anyways. That nigga probably out there looking like King Koopa.

Stepping out into the late April weather she wrapped her arms around her body to try and shield herself from the cold breeze. The weather was deceiving, although the sun was shining bright and it looked really warm the air had a slight chill to it. Looking up and down the street she didn't see her cousin anywhere, just as she looked down at her phone to text Nona a car horn beeped stopping her. Lucky's eyes fell on a new dark red Range Rover Sport that crawled to a stop beside her. Giving the truck a once over she had to admit the truck was hot and the shoes on that baby were sick. The dark tented passenger side window came down and out popped Nona's head, her shoulder length luscious jet black bob with sharp baby doll bangs looked freshly done. The jet black dyed hair made Nona's light skin look even paler. Nona was what some people would call a redbone or yellow bone. Girl c'mon what you just standing there for? Lucky took a few steps towards the truck reaching for the back passenger side door to open it. Nah Lucky get in on the other side, Nona instructed. Lucky shot her a confused look but walked around the front of the truck to get in on the other side.

Damn that's ya peoples? Nice asked as he took Lucky in. Yeah that's my cousin, Nona answered dryly. Y'all don't look shit alike, Nice added as he smirked cutting his eyes towards the rearview mirror to peak at his brother. He could tell Los liked what he saw from the way he was looking at Lucky. He was glad ole girl turned out to be arm candy because he knew Los wasn't happy at all about being here in the first place. The whole double date, slash blind date thing wasn't either of their thing. Neither of them had any problems bagging bitches, as a matter of fact maybe their only problem was overindulging in women and money. It was Nice who was pressed to come back out to Mohegan Sun one of the Indian casinos out in Connecticut. Since going out of town dolo with a chick who could've set him up for all he knew wasn't an option he dragged Los with him.

Hey Lucky! A dude called out from across the street. Lucky looked up and smiled at Andre aka Dre the campus weed man, class clown and stoner. He waved her over to him; Lucky turned towards the truck and put a finger up in the air signaling to give her a minute before hiking her Gucci book bag up on her shoulder and crossing the street towards him.

Dre started singing Amerie hit One thing, as Lucky approached, even doing a little dance to it. Lucky cracked up laughing shaking her head at his antics, along with passerby's that saw him acting a fool. To Dre and many other people Lucky favored the singer Amerie with green eyes and a better body. He opened his arms for a hug and Lucky walked into his embrace. Dre was harmless and cool as hell. He'd tried his hand at asking Lucky out so many times, only to get shut down that he stopped trying a long time ago. Their relationship was strictly platonic; they were just really cool with each other.

Oh hell no! Ain't nobody got time for this lil bitch to be on no social calls, Nona fumed as she watched Lucky talk with some broke ass looking college student. Nice shot her a look of irritation. He knew why she was so hard pressed to get to the casino she thought she was going to hit him up for major stacks but he wasn't having that. He'd only been dealing with her for about two weeks and he was already getting bored. Her head game was the truth, his nigga Buj ain't never lied about that, but ole girl was a straight gold digging smut that had been blowed down and passed around by niggaz like a blunt. This was actually one of his first times ever out in public with ole girl during the day, and he was only making this one exception because they were going out of town. She wasn't exactly the type of chick you wanted to be seen walking around holding hands, claiming and shit, no that just wouldn't be a good look.

Lucky turned and started towards the car with a huge smile on her face, obviously from something Dre said to her. It was then Los got a full view of her face, she was beautiful. Her eyes seemed to light up as she smiled complimenting her smooth brown skin, and the one lone dimple in her right cheek was deep. For real Lucky you gon look out for ya boy?! The dude called after her. I don't know Dre, I'll think about it. I'm really not doing you any favors by giving you the notes, you need to bring ya ass to class and take your own notes boy! Dre laughed, Yeah, I know, I know I'ma be in there tomorrow. Lucky stopped dead in her tracks Dre tomorrow's Saturday we don't have class. Dre burst out into laughter, all Lucky could do was shake her head with astonishment. Aw nah, you know what I meant, Monday! Monday I'ma be in class Monday taking notes, watch baby girl you'll see. Lucky chuckled shaking her head, she had heard this all before from Dre, how he was going to put the blunt down long enough to go to class. She smiled while she continued to walk towards the truck. Just as she reached the truck she called over her shoulder. I'll hit you up tonight to send that over to you. That's what's up Luck, good lookin out beautiful, he said before walking away.

Lucky grabbed the door handle not knowing what to expect. She automatically realized why her cousin told her to get in on the driver's side. There was a dude sitting, no more like damn near lying in the seat in back of Nona. Lucky couldn't get a good look at his face since his head was turned towards the door as he spoke into his cell phone in a hushed tone. She had to literally slide into the back seat since the driver had his seat back pretty far. Just when she thought he was going to be rude about it he adjusted his seat giving Lucky more room. You straight lil mama? Or you need me to pull up my seat more? He asked peering over his shoulder. Oh damn he fine! was Lucky's first thought. No I'm good. she responded. Dark caramel complexion, dark piercing bedroom eyes, low cut Caesar with waves on 360 and a pretty smile. He was a grown ass man no doubt but he had that boyish handsomeness about him like the rapper Nas. Damn girl it took you long enough. Why you still got your book bag with you? Nona asked in a snotty tone. You do know I just stepped out of class right? Lucky asked matching Nona's tone, giving her a warning with just her tone that today wasn't the day. Nona rolled her eyes, Well you ready right? Actually no, I have to drop my book bag off and grab my purse from my car. Unlike Shasona Lucky wasn't depending on a man she didn't know. She had all intentions of making sure she had enough cash and credit on her in case these niggaz showed they asses and she had to pay for herself and Nona's way back home from the casino. You just never know what to expect when dealing with some dudes.

Lucky you could've had all that squared away before we got here. It's already getting late. Damn! We already had to wait for you to be done with your exams and shit, Nona complained. The air in the truck got stale real quick. Lucky was just about to get stupid when Nice intervened. Yo, chill. It's not for all that, it ain't that serious, Nice said to Nona looking at her sideways. He was genuinely confused, he couldn't understand why Nona was going in like that when the girl just got in the car. What was the real issue? I'll take you to your car ma, but you gotta show the way, this campus is confusing as hell, he said with a light chuckle easing some of the unsaid tension in the car. No problem I'll show you where it is, and thank you, Lucky said followed by a hard sigh. This was already turning out to be a mistake. I don't have time for this bipolar bitch. She asked me to do her a favor! I knew I shoulda said no.

The drive to the student parking lot was pretty quick. I parked on the fifth level, Lucky offered up as they drove up the multi level parking garage. A'ight just tell me when to stop, Nice said. Riiiight here, Lucky called from the back. Nice stopped next to a new black C250 Benz he chuckled discreetly; baby girl was doing her thing. The Benz was damn near as entry level a Benz you could get, but for a college student she was doing her thing. It was definitely a chick whip, and it seemed to fit her personality, little, pretty and delicate. She hopped out of the truck, popped her trunk, threw her book bag in and took her purse out. Lucky was mindful to grab her IPad and headphones. Thank god for modern day technology otherwise she wasn't sure if she'd be able to get through this ride to the casino.

And through all of this Mr. Antisocial sat his rude ass beside her without a word. The only thing she knew about him was that he smelled hella good. She had yet to find out his name, or even how he looked. Besides stealing quick glances at him, all she could tell was he seemed tall from the way he was stretched out in the back and from the side of his face he looked as if he were attractive, but everyone knows side views could be deceiving as hell. She plugged her ear buds in her ear and sat back deciding to enjoy the scenic view while listening to her own music. One thing she learned to appreciate about Connecticut was the trees, the trees made a beautiful scene especially in the Spring and Fall.

The hour plus ride seemed to fly by pretty quickly. This was actually Lucky's first time coming to the casino herself; she wasn't at all the gambling type. In her opinion it was a waste of money. The opulence of the casino was evident as soon as Nice pulled up to the VIP area for his truck to be valet parked. Everyone started to file out of the car as the attendant approached. Lucky was in the process of getting out of the car when she looked up to see the dude who had been sitting beside her climb out of the car and stretch out his athletic physic. The smokey grey v neck cashmere sweater he rocked matched his grey and white Gucci high top sneaks with the red bottoms to the tee, displaying his broad shoulders and muscular chest. Despite having on a Hermes belt his True Religion jeans sagged in the back slightly. Around his neck sat a diamond rosary chain that hung to his stomach. The sleeves to his sweater were pulled up to the beginning of his forearms exposing tats inked on both his arms, and the big faced Rolex on his wrist was ridiculously flooded with diamonds. From the looks of it he was without a doubt over 6 feet tall. He pulled his red Phillies fitted from his head and ran his hand over the thick deep waves that adorned his Caesar cut that ran neatly into a goatee. As if he could feel eyes burning through him he turned towards the car catching Lucky staring at him. The first thing that came to mind when Lucky looked into his face was, Gotdamn! Bless his mother and father, he fine as fuck! Nice was attractive without a doubt, but Lucky wasn't attracted to him. She got an immediate brotherly feel from him, especially when he stuck up for her in the car. Now this man here was her speed, the complexion and everything. Her heart literally sped up when she looked at him. She knew he caught her staring but she couldn't turn away even if she wanted to. Both of their eyes locked on each other. His pretty amber brown eyes were almost hypnotizing, curtained by long thick lashes. His medium brown skin tone had a reddish hue to it, leaving a person to wonder if he were mixed with anything. His features were strong and masculine yet model worthy, straight nose and strong jaw bone. A slow cocky smile crept on his face as he boldly stared back at Lucky seeing that she was almost transfixed on him. When he smiled Lucky's heart nearly stopped, he had the deepest dimples and the prettiest smile. You gon get out the car pretty girl? Is he talking to me? Yeah he's talking to me. Lucky pulled her eyes from him and looked down trying to hide the fact she was blushing, feeling slightly embarrassed when she realized she was indeed the only one still sitting in the car like a jackass, while everyone else stood in front of the casino entrance. Suddenly she felt a little self conscious about her attire, she cursed herself for not dressing better. Nona didn't let her know the man was this damn fine. She could feel his eyes on her as she stood beside him looking everywhere but at him.

A'ight I'm tryna fuck wit the craps tables and play a few hands of poker. What y'all wanna do first? Wait let me guess the slot machines right? Nice asked with a slight chuckle. Yup, Nona said quickly holding her hand out. Truthfully, she hadn't really planned to play a damn thing. She was going to pocket the money, fuck wasting it in here. What about you? Nice asked Lucky ignoring Nona's outstretched palm. Well I can't play, so I guess I'll just watch. You can't play, why not? Nice asked perplexity showing all over his face. I'm not old enough. Her answer threw both he and Los for a loop. They had both assumed she was of legal age. She was in college and looked to be old enough. How old are you? Nice asked curiosity getting the best of him. 20, I'll be 21 in August. August what? Los cut in with a slight smirk. Lucky finally looked him in the face feeling the onset of butterflies running wild in the pit of her stomach. August 20th. Why? Los chuckled, That's what's up, my birthday's August 18th. They both seemed to break out into smiles at the same exact time staring at each other. I'm Carlos and you? Lucky, she answered diverting her eyes to the ground feeling as if she couldn't look at him for too long. Nice looked from his brother to Lucky and back to his brother, shaking his head at the both of them. Awe ain't that cute, Nice teased, causing Lucky to blush and shift uncomfortably. Nice dug into his pocket pulling out a healthy knot. He peeled off two stacks for Nona and you would've thought she hit the lotto. Craps table son! Nice announced rubbing his hands together as if he had the chills. Los chuckled shaking his head, his brother really needed to get that shit checked out. He loved gambling a little too much.

After about an hour both Lucky and Los found themselves alone. Nice and Nona had slipped away to a suite in the casino. Lucky watched as Los put another 500 hundred dollars down on a bet at the craps table. He'd just lost 2g's, shooting miserably, luck definitely wasn't with him today, or was it? He looked over at Lucky who was hanging by his side not too close as if she were afraid to come closer. Pretty girl come here, blow on these dice for me, let me see if you can live up to ya name. Lucky smirked before leaning into his hand and blowing on the dice. He shook the dice and tossed them on the table. Oooh! He screamed along with the crowd around them. Lucky didn't know the rules of craps, or what the hell was going on, but all the yelling and him looking over at her with light in his eyes as if she were really magic was a good sign. She looked back at him and shrugged her shoulders with a smirk. Los placed the dice to Lucky's lips yet again before rolling, and again coincidentally in Lucky's view it was coincidental, he won. Gotdamn! Baby, Yeah! Los barked. Lucky flinched, surprised at his reaction. This was the same man who was mute the whole ride to the casino. He turned towards her and wrapped his strong arm around her small waist pulling her closer to his side, as if she had some secret powers he wanted to keep all for himself. His initial touch sent tingles through her body. Lucky Charms what it is ma, we on a roll. C'mon daddy needs a new pair of shoes, he said in a sing song way holding the dice back to her mouth. Lucky tried to contain a laugh but couldn't help it before she blew on the dice. This time when he rolled things didn't turn out in his favor. The look of disappointment was evident on his handsome face. Lucky couldn't help but laugh, thinking it was funny to see a grown man damn near pout when he didn't get his way. You can't win em all, she reminded him. Los looked over at her squinting his eyes in deep thought as if he were examining every part of her face closely. Lucky's breath got caught in her throat for a second; she tore her eyes away unable to deal with Los's intense stare and those pretty amber eyes of his. A throaty chuckle escaped his mouth as if he figured Lucky would look away.

A'ight, since I peeped that you ain't really feelin this whole gambling thing what you wanna get into? Oh, am I that transparent? Lucky asked giving him a flirtatious smile. He froze staring at her for a long minute. Lucky smiled back uneasily, What? she asked raking her fingers through her hair and biting on her bottom lip nervously. Lil word of advice ma, don't go around smiling at men like that. You gon fuck around and get a nigga murked one day, he said with a serious expression that eased into a smile. Lucky chuckled with furrowed brows. Boy you crazy, and here I was thinking you were the quiet type.

Carlos reached for her hand and grabbed hold of it. Her small hand was enveloped into his large strong one as he led her through the crowded Friday night game floor towards the exit. There was something so familiar and right about his touch, she couldn't help but feel safe and protected as he stood in front of her holding onto her hand tight. Lucky followed his lead hoping her hand wasn't perspiring from her nervousness. Once they made it to the hallway he let her hand go, although she wished he hadn't. They walked side by side taking in the busy Friday night scene as well as the casino's lavishness.

You hungry? he asked. Until the mention of food Lucky hadn't realized just how hungry she truly was. The last thing she had to eat that day was a bagel and glass of orange juice before her morning exam. She'd skipped lunch, to spend the two hours between her morning and afternoon exams studying in the library, now she was feeling famine. But there was no way she was going to eat in front of his fine ass, no way! No, I'm straight, she lied. He peered down at her, his almost cognac colored eyes seeming to see right through her. Well I'm hungry as hell, he said in a matter of fact tone placing his hand on his rock hard abs. Michael Jordan's Steakhouse, Los read aloud as they were approaching the restaurant. You ever ate here? Lucky shook her head no; she'd never ate at the restaurant but heard a few people give positive reviews about the place. He reached for her hand once again leading the way into the restaurant.

There was no wait at all; they were able to be seated almost immediately. Carlos requested that they be seated at a table for four in the event Nice and Nona called and wanted to join them while they were eating. Lucky would bet her last dollar she knew exactly what her cousin was up to right now. She shook her head with disappointment. Why her cousin who was an attractive chick didn't know her true worth was beyond her. Why she felt the need to let a nigga hit simply because he had paper was baffling to Lucky.

The waitress came to take their orders and like a gentleman Los told Lucky to go ahead and order first. She had already chalked this up in her head that she couldn't really go in on food in front of this man. I'll have just an order of seasoned steak fries. And for your drink? The waitress asked. Uhh, a Sprite will be fine, Lucky answered politely. So just an order of seasoned steak fries and Sprite soda? the waitress repeated. Yes. I'm not really hungry, Lucky said while handing the waitress back the menu. Both the waitress and Los shot her cynical looks.

Los on the other hand didn't hold back. He ordered just about everything on the menu that caught his eye. Fillet mignon, New York strip steak, shrimp skewers, beer battered fish and chips, home styled mashed potatoes, lobster mashed potatoes, baby back ribs with brown sugar BBQ sauce and buttered sautéed broccoli and rice, with a side order of Mj's famous buffalo wings. The waitress hand moved swiftly as she jotted down his order. Lucky's eyes grew larger with each order he placed, then the fool really sat there looking at the menu contemplating ordering more before handing the menu over. Okay now where the hell is all that food going to go Lucky thought as she looked over at him? Los caught the incredulous look Lucky gave him and laughed it off, What? Ma I told you I was hungry as hell. I see, Lucky said sarcastically, laughing along with him.

Conversation flowed effortlessly between the two they seemed to just click; and Los was actually surprised that despite both of them being born and raised in Philly they had never crossed each other's paths. Less than a half hour later while they talked and got to know each other better the food came out piping hot. Plates filled the table and Lucky had no other choice but to have mouth watering food only inches away from her, since they had to literally squish all the plates on the table. There in front of her sat a basket of lonely looking seasoned steak fries. She reached over grabbing the container of ketchup pouring a good amount on the fries, figuring the ketchup could make the fries a little more filling. Carlos picked both his fork and knife up cutting into his steak. Lucky was happy to see he didn't eat like a cave man with his fingers and shit. She'd been on some dates where dudes ate like they were on chow in lock up. Lucky stabbed into her heavily ketchup covered fries with her fork and ate a few. No matter how hard she tried to ignore the wings, which was one of her favorite foods, her eyes kept zeroing in on them. From the looks of it they were just the way she liked them saucy. But every chick knew buffalo wings were one of those no no foods on first dates, finger foods were much too messy of a food to eat in front of a dude you barely knew.

Carlos was sitting there enjoying his food. He had tasted a little bit of each dinner he ordered and he would be the first to admit the food was pretty good. He looked across the table at Lucky sticking her fork into the piled high fries drowned in ketchup. The look on her face was damn near comical, her eyes shifted focusing on the buffalo wings and the other plates of food that lined the table, then back at her fries, where she picked one up with her fork and chewed as if it were killing her. Carlos knew what it was from the door; she was too shy to eat in front of him. He placed his fork and steak knife down on his plate.

Ma come here, he called crooking his finger signaling her to come to him. Lucky tore her eyes from the wings to look across the table at him. She hesitated at first, before getting up and walking around the table and taking a seat next to him. Once she sat down he turned the entire chair towards him with her sitting in it. He picked up his fork and steak knife cut a small piece of his New York strip steak that was seasoned to perfection, dipped it in the lobster mashed potatoes then placed it up to her lips. Lucky batted her eyes trying to contain a laugh before taking the cue and opening wide to eat the food. He fed her fork after fork of different foods before he suddenly stopped. Yo, I'ma fall back, cause I see you already got the potential of getting spoiled as hell, Los teased with a chuckle. Lucky smiled with her mouth closed while chewing the last bit of food he just fed her. When she was done she told herself fuck it, and went for those wings that seemed to be calling her. The wings tasted as good as they looked. By the time she was on her third wing she had long forgotten about being shy to eat in front of him. Carlos was back to eating his own food but he couldn't resist cracking a joke at the way she was going in on them wings. Gotdamn baby girl you gettin mean on them wings. Don't make a mistake and bite ya fingers, he said through light laughter. The comment made Lucky freeze completely just as she was about to bite into a wing. She looked over at him and cracked the hell up right along with him. No you didn't just say I'm getting mean on these wings, Lucky said through laughter. Their laughter drew a few looks from other patrons who only saw a nice looking couple by all accounts enjoying each other's company. Nah, I'm fuckin wit you, go head do you. Eat up, Los said with a smile. Whateva, Lucky said with a smile biting into the wing she was about to eat before he cracked that joke. Once she was done with that last wing she had to throw in the towel, she was more than stuffed. Grabbing the warm hand wipes the waitress brought out Lucky proceeded to wipe her hands and corners of her mouth daintily to make sure she didn't have buffalo wing sauce on her face. Her eyes met his and he smiled. You're beautiful, he said making Lucky blush like a school girl. You're beautiful too, Lucky said returning the compliment while trying to contain a smile. Beautiful? he repeated jerking his head back. Yeah beautiful, or would you rather pretty? Word? he responded coolly bobbing his head with a sexy grin. You tryna be on some funny shit ha? Los accused reaching over pinching Lucky's thigh. Ouch! Stop it, Lucky shrieked before giggling, then sticking her tongue out at him. Los's manz jumped in his jeans and began to rise. Down boy, down! Los thought to himself. What? Lucky asked innocently. Nothin, you ready to get outta here? Yes I am. After Los paid the bill and left a two hundred dollar tip for the waitress they were off. The waitress was so damn happy she ran towards the front of the restaurant before they were able to leave. Oh thank you so much! Have a nice day. Are you sure you don't want anything boxed up? Nah, we good, Los said trying to contain a laugh. Okay, come again. Both Lucky and Los couldn't help but find a little humor at how happy she was about her tip.

Lucky couldn't believe how much fun she was actually having, and to think she almost didn't come. Los would have to admit he was really feeling her and enjoying himself as well. His ringing cell phone brought him back to reality as he looked at his IPhone screen. The dilemma he was facing was staring him dead in the face. Carlos had been stressing ever since Shyanne called claiming she was pregnant. One thing was for sure he wasn't claiming or acknowledging shit until DNA proved it. She was just a nut, something to get his dick wet, nothing to claim or wear on his arm, that wouldn't be a good look for a young boss nigga like himself. Nor would her having his baby be a good look. She wasn't anything he would want to bare his seed, let alone raise his child, especially not a little girl. How could she teach his daughter self respect, self worth, and class if she had none herself? It's funny how he was thinking about this now when he should've thought about it before he piped her. He had no one to blame but himself for this mishap. It was his fault for being attracted to the hoe types, who would freak off anywhere and anyway. His heart literally fell to his toes when he heard the loud snap of the condom while he was dicking her down over a month ago. He screamed for her to run in the shower but he knew that was false hope on all fronts. Now here she was claiming to be pregnant and calling his phone repeatedly on some real stalker shit.

He looked down at Lucky with apologetic eyes. Give me a minute to take this ma? Yeah, okay, Lucky said slowing her stroll down to a stop. I'ma step over here, I'll be right back, Los assured pinching her cheek playfully before walking down the hall pressing his phone to his ear. She saw his shoulders tense up as he spoke tensely into the phone. For a quick moment she wondered if it were a woman on the other end of the line? Feeling a slight hint of jealousy. She quickly checked herself realizing she had no rights to wonder, he wasn't her man. Besides if it were a female, at least he was respectable enough to take it out of earshot. Los was seething he honestly wouldn't have taken the call, but he knew Shyanne would just keep calling. Not to mention he was trying his hardest to confirm her claim of being pregnant. He'd asked her multiple times to let him bring her to his doctor to confirm she was indeed pregnant, but she'd stalled and continuously made excuses leaving him to believe she was on some bullshit.

As Lucky waited she read the upcoming events for the Casino on the wall. Her nostrils were suddenly assaulted by a strong scent of burnt cinnamon, must, alcohol, and stale cigarettes. The smell was overpowering enough to make anyone throw up. Excuse me, how you doing lil lady? a voice came from behind. Lucky turned around to find the root of the smell. Hi, she said politely while trying to hold her breath. The stranger who stood in front of her had sprayed enough of that stinking ass cologne on himself to give someone a serious headache or heart attack, that combined with the fact he looked and smelled like he'd been sitting in the casino for days without changing his clothes or washing his ass had Lucky repulsed. She was thinking of ways to get rid of him and he hadn't even said two sentences. What's your name beautiful? It's Lucky, she answered before looking around showing in so many ways she wasn't interested. "Well god is good; cause today damn sure must be my Lucky day!" Ewww Lucky thought to herself. How about you give me your num… Sorry, I couldn't do that my boyfriend is right over there, Lucky said pointing at Carlos who was still very much on the phone but now looking over at them. The dude took one look at Carlos who was now walking towards them and walked away immediately. Sorry bout that, Los apologized with his eyes still glued on the dude who just scurried away. That's okay, Lucky said before walking off assuming he was walking beside her, until she felt his strong arms wrap around her from behind pulling her into a bear hug burying his face in the crook of her neck. Her heart raced frantically from his embrace, for some reason his embrace felt so right. God this man smell so good. Your boyfriend ha? Let me find out ma, next thing I know I'll be your fiancé, then husband without even knowing it, he said with a light chuckle. Oh shit he heard me. Lucky spun around quickly to try and explain away. No. I only said that so… Nah, I like the sound of that, Los said in a low baritone peering down into her eyes, with his chest pressed against hers. Heat rose from Lucky's belly all the way to her face and parts of her body she wasn't yet familiar with awoke. She looked away hoping and praying he hadn't noticed how nervous she was. Carlos picked up on how tense she had become so he backed up to put some space between them. Without another word they continued walking taking a scenic tour of the casino, Lucky's nerves finally began to settle a bit.

Can I ask you a few questions? Lucky asked with a slight smile. Awe man, should I have my lawyer present? You about to question a nigga like we on The First 48? Los said with a slight smile. Lucky smiled a little, shaking her head no. I'm going to keep it light. Promise. A'ight ask away. How tall are you? Lucky asked genuinely interested looking up at him. 6'1. Okay, How old? 24. And last but not least, what cologne do you have on? Los looked down at her with a sexy smirk. La Nuit. Lucky crinkled her brow before saying, Never heard of it. It's by YSL. Oh, now that wasn't so bad right? Nah, not at all, Los admitted.

They took the escalator to the second floor of the casino where they passed by multiple shops. Lucky's eyes seemed to zero in on a sequin strapless mini dress in natural colors of brown. Los took one look at the dress and knew her body would look amazing in it. You like it? Yeah it's really cute, Lucky responded wondering how much the dress would be in this casino? Where the price for just about everything was inflated. Los said absolutely nothing before taking her by the hand and pulling her into the store.

An older white woman spotted the couple walking in. The first thing she noticed was Lucky then her eyes settled on Los. His jewels, diamond chain, diamond bracelet and big faced Rolex on his wrist with multi colored diamonds in the bezel said everything he didn't say, he was money! She should know she had enough ice on her fingers to keep an Eskimo cold. And she'd been married enough times to wealthy men to spot one, hence all the ice on her fingers.

Well hello! Welcome to our boutique. How is it that I can help you? That dress in the window, we want it, Carlos stated bluntly. You could tell he was used to calling shots and getting what he wanted. Well alrighty, let's see you're about a 4-6 the woman stated more than questioned. She had a knack for looking at women and guessing their sizes. Lucky was small framed but shapely. Yes, Lucky shook her head in confirmation trying her hardest not to stare at the woman's face that had been stretched to the point of looking tight and shiny. She had better lay off the plastic surgery, real talk. Okay, in that dress I think you would be about a 2, it runs sorta big. Why don't you follow me to a fitting room over here and we can get you all set up. And sir please have a seat in one of these plush chairs here. Would you like any refreshments? Carlos shook his head no as he sat in a cushioned floral wing back chair that faced the fitting rooms. Lucky was whisked away to try on the dress that he couldn't wait to see her in.

Nearly 6 minutes later Lucky walked slowly out of the fitting room, tugging at the bottom of the short dress that fit her body like a glove. Carlos was looking down at his phone when he heard Lucky clear her throat. He looked up and was taken aback for a second. The dress had her firm perfect sized C-cups sitting up just right. Her small waist emphasized her hips that protruded slightly and when she turned around slowly to give him a back view of the dress, his eyes widened as he licked his lips sexily. Lucky was aware she didn't have the biggest donk in the world. No, ass injections or fake cakes to make her look disproportionate or ridiculous. But, the amount of lunges with free weights, squats and incline walking on treadmills ensured her an ass that was plump and firm. She looked over her shoulder with her back still facing him, biting her bottom lip, feeling a little shy from Los's intense stare. Los shifted slightly in his chair trying to make room for his growing third leg. We'll take it, Los said with his eyes glued to Lucky's body. Oh that's marvelous! And sir let me tell you we have the perfect, perfect shoes to go with that dress. She looked down at Lucky's feet Your about a size 7? Yes. 7 or 7 1/2, it depends on the shoe, Lucky responded while looking down at the price tag of the dress. Her eyes nearly bulged out of their sockets. Oh no! Carlos I don't want this dress its way too much, its $499.98. Carlos looked totally unfazed; as a matter of fact he didn't bat an eye. The sales woman came running out of the back with four different boxes of shoes. Los smirked, hustle recognized hustle. Ole girl was trying to get her money up off commission, he wasn't mad at her.

Here are the shoes I was telling you about sir. They would look fabulous with this dress, she said addressing Los and totally ignoring Lucky. Lucky cut her eyes at the sales woman. This wasn't her first time addressing him, the money man and not Lucky the one who was actually going to wear the shit. The sales woman took the open toe 4 1/2 inch heels out and Lucky who had a shoe fetish had to admit the shoes were bad. You like em? Los asked. Lucky's stalled response told him that she did. The sales woman passed them to Lucky who slipped the shoes on with the dress. Lucky's legs seemed to stretch on for days and her ass sat up even higher and firmer with the heels on. Los bobbed his head up and down appreciatively I'll take them too. Great! The sales woman exclaimed.

Lucky returned to the fitting room to change back into her clothes when she overheard the sales woman starting some shit. We got some new pieces in just a few days ago that I know she would look absolutely stunning in. Oh yeah, bring em out, Los said. That old bitch," Lucky spat under her breath.

Ten minutes later Lucky looked around the fitting room and couldn't believe the amount of clothes she had to try on. Jeans, blouses that could either be worn to work or a night out on the town with the girls. Pencil skirts and graphic tees that were over priced to say the least. A couple of her stand out items was the Prada pumps with the spiked heels. Color block bandage pencil skirt, two pairs of Just Cavalli jeans and a few blouses that she adored. Everything else she would've passed up on for the simple fact she felt bad spending someone else's money like this. But Los insisted damn near demanded she get any and everything that he thought looked good on her body. It seemed as if he got a kick out of having Lucky be his very own personal Barbie doll as she tried on different outfits for him. When it was all said and done the rest of the sales associates had even got in on the action helping box and bag up Lucky's items at the register.

Lucky's eyes blinked rapidly as she looked back at the total amount jumping off the cash register in neon green. She didn't care what anyone said she was not going to spend $5,128.64 of this man's money that she barely knew. Lucky was all into fashion, she loved to dress, and look good. Being she was a young chick with a decent paying job and no kids, she had the tendency of spoiling herself with designer clothes, handbags and shoes, with her own money that is. She didn't feel right spending someone else's money in excess.

Los watched on with amusement as Lucky became damn near confrontational about him spending money on her. Oh my god Carlos no! Take some of this stuff off. I don't need all of this really, Lucky said frantically digging in her Gucci purse and coming up with a credit card. Let me at least pay for half… Yo, put ya purse away. Your money no good with me. I'm coppin this stuff because I want you to have it, Los stated firmly. His position seemed firm from the look on his face as he dug for his wallet in his back pocket and came up with a black card. Lucky huffed, crossed her arms across her chest and rolled her eyes at the fake ass Liz Taylor who she felt was to blame. The sales woman didn't take offense to the nasty look, she smirked while swiping the exclusive Visa Black Card through the machine thinking of the hefty commission she just made. You'll learn sweetheart. If a man got it, you better spend it, before he trades you in for a younger more improved version.

Los looked at Lucky and wanted to laugh as he caught the slight attitude coming from her. This was a

Reviews for It is What it is

[crystald493 · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

can't wait for part 2!

[leelee1995 · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

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[Queena_Dujuan · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

Love this book!! wonderful can't wait for part 2

[honeybear27 · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

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[Tiajack · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

Great read . So ready for part 2 !!!! Instant page turner .

[1mzstevens · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

Awesome read I would read it over and over again!!!