Eva’S Jones

By Delcenia Thurmond

A chance meeting between two people, a journey into their love and life. Eva, is a woman who has it all; brains, beauty, success, and the love and support of her family. She has the "IT" factor. Men adore her and women envy her. Alex, is the man that women fantasize about marrying and men respect, he's charismatic, handsome, intelligent and he's the boss.
What happens when two influential people meet, fall in love, causing their worlds to collide and merge?
Can their love withstand the test of time, past relationships, the stress of business, and family?
Can they juggle careers, egos, family, emotions, and everyday life and find balance to be successful in love?
Will they be able to withstand the pressure of the celebrity of who they are?
Only time can tell.....

• Language: English
• Publisher: Trafford Publishing
• Release date: Jul 8, 2014
• ISBN: 9781490738826

Delcenia Thurmond

This book was born from a desire to read something different, a story that played over and over in my mind. The characters emerged and I began to tell their story, who they were and what they meant to each other. Once I began to write their story, I couldn't stop. It was a process that took me to another place. I was straddling two worlds, my reality and the reality of Alex and Eva. I never considered myself an author, until now, I figured why not. I am just as capable as some of my favorite authors. I have a genuine love for reading and a gift from God I didn't realize I had. I've always been the type of person who was willing to try new things and expand my horizons. So here I am spreading my wings, ready to fly to higher heights. I currently reside in Columbus, Ohio with my husband and family.

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Copyright 2014 Delcenia Thurmond.

All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted, in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording, or otherwise, without the written prior permission of the author.

L.A Banks is an inspiration to me. A tremendously talented author. Christine Feehan is another amazingly gifted writer.

ISBN: 978-1-4907-3881-9 (sc)

ISBN: 978-1-4907-3883-3 (hc)

ISBN: 978-1-4907-3882-6 (e)

Library of Congress Control Number: 2014911995

Because of the dynamic nature of the Internet, any web addresses or links contained in this book may have changed since publication and may no longer be valid. The views expressed in this work are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of the publisher, and the publisher hereby disclaims any responsibility for them.

Any people depicted in stock imagery provided by Thinkstock are models,

and such images are being used for illustrative purposes only.

Certain stock imagery © Thinkstock.

Trafford rev. 07/02/2014

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CONTENTS

Acknowledgement

Part 1 Three Years Ago

Part 2 A Sudden Change

Part 3 Birthday Bash For Tricia

Part 4 Eight Months Later

Part 5 Six Months Later

Part 6 A New Beginning

Acknowledgement

I WOULD LIKE TO THANK GOD, without whom none of my successes would be possible. My husband and the love of my life, Labaron, whose love and support is unwavering. My children, Kiani, Brian Phillip, and Jordan, the three jewels of my life, very unique and valuable. My mother, Veronica, whose love for reading was passed down to me. My sister, Erica, who taught me to accept and respect people for who they are. To my mother-in-law, my original editor, Kimberly, who believed in my book and who cooked for my family during the long hours I spent on my book. To my father-in-law, Labaron a.k.a. Boo Jones, never met a person who genuinely supports me and your son the way you do. Winston and Jeff, thank you for just being you.

I would like to also extend my love to my aunts, Darlene, Karen, Jamie, Tracey, Lorna, Paris, and Loretta, the women who encourage me and who have supported me in various ways. Love goes out to my uncles too, lol, can’t forget the uncles, Frenel, Chuck, Thomas, and Keith. I thank the family at Trafford Publishing, who helped bring my book to the world. My best friends in the entire world, Jennifer, Sandy, and Joy, the women who effortlessly support and love me.

Last, but definitely not the least, the grandmas: Lula, the head of the dynasty, Alma, the woman who gave me my foundation in God, Cora, the woman who gave me love and support and advice concerning my relationship, Mary, you have always been good to me and you make the best biscuits in the world, Ethel and Julia, women who shaped the spunk in me. Love to my grandfather, James, the M&M bandit.

Shout out to Lorenzo (Boots), Lonnie, Angie, Reese, Quana, Chase, Frenel Jr., Kyle, Frankie, Jessica, Audrey, and My husband’s team: Rel, Big D, Crow, thank you for the support you give my husband.

R.I. P: Michael, my father, Micah, Cora, Julia, Ethel, Tony, Donna, Pam, James and Lula.

E VA WAS ON HER WAY to Alex’s office after the huge fight they had. He was a master at manipulating her emotions. She always felt like he could provoke emotions in her that no other man could. He had a way of getting up under her skin. She loved him. Eva decided to go see him. She wanted to confront him. She was still angry with him for walking out on her last night and for coming home and leaving without saying anything to her. As she sat there in the lobby of his office building, she thought about the first time she laid eyes on him three years ago. She was back in New York trying to land a lucrative business deal that her best friend and partner Marina told her about, a convention for business owners to meet and net work.

THREE YEARS AGO

Part 1

H OLD THE ELEVATOR, EVA SAID as she approached the elevator. Thanks so much, she said as she entered the elevator. She turned to face the doors as they closed while pushing the button to go to the ground floor. She never looked in his direc tion.

Anytime, beautiful.

Eva couldn’t help but turn around and look at him now, his voice demanded that she turn and look at him.

Are you in the habit of calling every strange woman you see beautiful? Eva said.

No, just the ones that actually are, Alex said as he raised his right eyebrow.

Hmm… you’re either very confident or very arrogant. Either way it goes, it sounds like a cheap pick-up line, Eva said.

Well, actually, I have to be in my line of work! Alex said.

"And what would that line of work be—that of a hustler?" Eva replied.

Some might say that I hustled them, while others would say that I’m a rather clever businessman. Let me ask you a question, beautiful—what is that exquisite fragrance you’re wearing? Alex asked.

Yes, you may. It’s called Endless Love, she said with a smirk on her face. But I’m sure you wouldn’t know anything about that!

Well, in that case, why don’t you have dinner with me? Maybe you could teach me, Alex said.

No, thank you. I don’t eat with strangers, Eva said.

We could change that—my name is Alex Thurston, and you are?

Eva almost came in her pink Vicky Secret lace thongs. She had heard so much about him through Marina. Every woman who was a social climber or on the who’s-who list wanted to be Mrs. Alex Thurston, and here she was turning down a dinner invite from him. She maintained her cool.

Are you okay? Alex asked.

She looked like she was going to faint after seeing a ghost, but she maintained her composure. She quickly pulled herself together.

Yeah, umm, I mean, yes, I’m fine, I just remembered something that I have to do today. She hoped she sounded convincing.

Just then, the elevator doors opened, she never felt so relieved in all her life. Eva kept repeating his name in her head. She remembered reading an article on him and even heard his voice on a radio program. She thought she would never forget that voice, yet she did, that is, until this day. She hoped he was watching her, and he was.

Alex made up his mind—he was going to have her, no matter what it took. He usually got what he wanted once he made up his mind. It was just something that was so captivating about her. She wasn’t like most women he knew. She was wife material—she had it, that thing that sets her apart from other gorgeous women.

Eva was definitely gorgeous. She had it all—brains, beauty, and an out-cold body. Unlike most women, she knew it. Men adored her, and women envied her.

Eva was one of four girls born to Angela and Michael Scott. Her sisters were as equally as beautiful. Eva was second to the eldest, Gina, and followed by the twins, Maxine and Samara. They were known in the neighborhood as Mike’s GEMS. Michael always bragged about his jewels—his daughters. Eva was his heart because she was most like him. Gina was more like her mother, while Maxine and Samara were like the boys he would never have, so he affectionately called them Max and Sam, nicknames that stuck with them. No matter what, he loved all his girls just the same.

Now on the other hand, Alex was the youngest son of Tricia and Cedric Thurston. His elder brothers were Cedric Jr. and Trinity, and he had a half sister named Stephanie.

Hello, Mr. Thurston, can I call for your car? said the security officer.

Yes, and you can tell me who that woman is, he said, pointing in Eva’s direction.

Who, sir, the woman in the blue suit? Oh, that’s Ms. Scott, the security officer replied.

Yes, that would be the one. Who does she work for? Alex inquired.

No one, sir, she’s part owner of Devawear and Guys&Gals Wear, the security officer responded.

Would you happen to know if she lives here? Alex asked.

No, sir, I don’t, but I have seen her here on several occasions. Will there be anything else? the security said.

No, thanks. That’s all I need to know! Alex said.

Alex took out his cell phone as he got into his car and called his associate and boy, the human social directory Derrick Kalender.

Hey, Alex, what’s up my man? How did the meeting go? Derrick asked.

As expected. Hey, listen, man, that’s not why I called. I need some info on somebody, the owner of Devawear and Guys&Gals Wear. Can you get some info on her and call me back? Alex asked.

No need, my man, that’s the one and only Eva Scott, one of the baddest women around. Hey, umm, how you know her? Derrick curiously asked.

Man, I don’t, but I want to get to know her in every way possible, Alex said, smiling to himself.

Derrick warned, Well, I’ll tell you this—you got your work cut out for.

Anything worth having is worth working for, and I always get what I want, no matter the cost. Thanks, man, I can always count on you, Alex said.

No problem. When can I expect to see you in the office? Derrick asked.

Maybe this evening. I have a few more errands to run, Alex said.

All right then, see you later, Derrick resigned.

Alex hung up his phone.

Maurice, do you know where Guys&Gals Wear is located? Alex asked his driver.

Yes, Mr. Thurston, it’s right on our way. Did you want me to stop there, sir? Maurice said

No, but I will need you to do me a favor later and check out the place for a future business venture, Alex said.

Alex dialed the operator and asked to be connected to Guys&Gals Wear.

What city and state? the operator asked.

I’m not sure, Alex responded.

Hold on, sir, let me check the listing, there’s one in New York and one in California. Which one would you like? the operator said.

The one in New York, Alex answered.

That number is 213-555-1257, the operator said. Have a nice day, sir.

Dial Marina, Eva said on her way to her car. Hey, Marina, it’s Eva. Call me. It’s urgent.

Eva was wondering where her best friend since they were eight was. Marina was like the fourth sister, especially since her parents took her in when her mother died. It was her mother’s last request. Eva was thinking of her best friend of twenty-two years and all the secrets they shared. She decided to call her other best friend and the one whom she had blood ties with, her sister Gina.

Hello, you have reached Gina. I’m not available. Leave a message and I will call you back.

Oh dang! I forgot she was doing double duty at the hospital today, Eva said to herself. Gina, it’s me Eva. Call me, okay?

Finally, she dialed Guys&Gals Wear.

Hello, Guys&Gals Wear, Maxine speaking, Maxine said.

Hey, Max, it’s me Eva. What’s up? Eva said.

Business as usual. Where are you? Max said casually.

On my way there. Where’s Sam? Eva said.

She’s putting out the new inventory on the rack in the front of the store, you know, the one you told us to do, Maxine replied.

Okay, good, I’ll be there shortly—oh, before I forget, did Marina call? Eva asked.

Yes, she wants you to call the Cali store as soon as possible, Maxine said.

I called her earlier but no answer— oh, hold on, that’s her now. Better yet, I’ll be there in a minute, Eva said. Hey, Marina, what’s going on? Where have you been? I’ve been trying to reach you.

I had a problem with the new hiree, Sharon. Short version—she made her own employee discount. I pretty much handled everything. We incurred a loss of $560, most of the merchandise were recovered all but $120 worth. She already sold it off. I had her arrested, so I was taking care of that, Marina said.

That’s why you’re my ace. What is our plan for hiring someone else? Eva asked.

I don’t know yet because I was supposed to meet you out there in New York to have our monthly meeting. If I leave now, the other girls will have to pull double duty until I get back and hire someone else, Marina said.

Well, maybe I’ll send Max and Sam to California. They were looking forward to managing the store out there, Eva said.

Then who would manage the store there? They’ve done such a fabulous job there! Marina inquired.

I could manage it. That way, I could stay here in New York longer and get this other deal locked in, Eva suggested.

Listen, how about Max comes here and Sam stay there? That way, if you need to handle that deal we got going, you will be able to pursue that, Marina pointed out.

Yeah, we could definitely do that, maybe, Eva said.

Marina said as a matter of fact, So what was so urgent? Because I heard it in your voice.

You will never guess who I met today? Eva said.

No, I won’t, so why don’t you just tell me, and it better be good! Marina said.

How does Alex Thurston sound? Is that good? Eva said.

Girl, shut up! Where? Marina exclaimed.

"At the meeting, well, not actually at the meeting, but in the elevator after the meeting was over. He asked me out to dinner, and I said no. Girl, I didn’t even know who he was until he started flirting with me, and I still didn’t know who he was until he finally introduced himself. Girl, he was coming on to me so strong, and you know how I do when a nigga start with them corny-ass pick-up lines. I have to shut ’em down. Anyway, when he told me his name, I damn near creamed in my panties. That man is fine as hell. You did not tell me he was so fine. How did you manage to forget that?" Eva said.

EVA! You know good darn well I told you that man was all that, but you was so busy with that loser Calvin that you didn’t hear a word I was saying about Alex. Now what you gonna do? You blew it girl. Every sack chaser is after that one, and you had him right where you needed him, and you let him go. That’s what you get for being so damn hard on men, Marina said.

I wouldn’t have the reputation I have if I made it easy. If it’s meant to be, it’ll work out! You know I believe that, Eva said.

Maybe it will, and maybe it won’t, we will see. You are gonna kick your own ass if it doesn’t. I don’t know, you are like a cat with nine lives when it comes to stuff like this, Marina remarked.

How are you and Dion doing? Eva asked.

I guess all right, I’m still not talking to him, he fucked up, and I don’t know if I want him back. We have been through a lot, and he let that female trick his dumb ass. He doesn’t even know if that baby is his. He allowed another one to come in between what we got because you and I were busy opening the Cali store. It wasn’t even shit. He let a couple of months mess with his head. It wasn’t like I wasn’t coming home and spending every chance I could with him. Fuck him. I hope him and the bitch is happy. He keeps calling me, begging me to take him back, telling me he doesn’t love her and he wants us to get therapy and work it out. I’m all he wants that he fucked up. I said, ‘I know you fucked up, that’s why I’m gone.’ He’s like, ‘Baby, please give me another chance.’ I asked him how could I ever trust him again. How could he let seven years go down the drain for a piece of ass and then let the motherfucker get pregnant? That’s a lot for anyone to handle. All the times I asked him if we could start a family and he said, ‘Let’s concentrate on our careers.’ I guess I was the only one concentrating on the career tip. Anyway, you better concentrate on Alleeexxxx! Marina said.

I know, but listen to me, Dion has been calling me, trying to get me to get you to meet with him to try to start over with you and to make it right. Marina, just think about it, I know he hurt you bad as hell, but you don’t stop loving someone ’cause they fuck up. I, of all people, know how much you two loved each other and still do love each other. Don’t close the door on you and him forever. Just give it some time. Besides, I’m tired of him calling me begging for you. You know you love him and he loves you, Eva said.

Look, Eva, what if that baby is his? I don’t think I can handle that shit. You know how much I wanted a baby, and for him to have one with a bitch he don’t love, much less know, that’s a lot to ask of anyone, Marina said.

Well, why don’t you wait and see if it’s his and, in the meantime, take it one day at a time? You gonna let her steal your man and he don’t even care about her? Does he help her out or do the parenting thing with her ass? Hell no. He loves Marina. He fucked up majorly, and he knows it. Believe me, he knows it. Dion is willing to do anything to make it up to you. If he could turn back the hands of time, that man would. Rina, hold on, someone is beeping in… Hello, Eva said.

Hello, beautiful, you are a hard person to track down! Alex said.

Eva’s heart skipped a beat. She couldn’t believe this man tracked her down. Who is this, and how did you get my number? she asked.

You never answered me—can we have dinner, or do you want me to stalk you? Alex teased.

I think you are doing a pretty good job at that! Bye! Eva said.

She hung up on him.

Girl, you are not gonna believe who that was! Eva said.

Let me guess, Alex! Marina said.

Hell yeah. I got him. Let me go just in case he calls me back. Rina, think about what I said about Dion, okay? Eva said.

Yeah, okay, love ya, see ya in a day or two, Marina said.

Eva’s phone rang again. She took her time answering it. Hello.

Beautiful, please don’t hang up on me. I just want a chance to take you out to dinner. Don’t break my heart by turning me down. I don’t think I can take it, Alex pleaded.

Somehow, I find that hard to believe. You can probably handle just about anything! Eva said.

Not rejection from the most beautiful woman I’ve seen in a long time! Alex flirted.

Man, you have got to be kidding me. Where do you get these lines? Are you reading them from a cue card? Eva scolded him.

No, I just happen to be captivated by you, and I want to get to know Eva Scott for myself. Is that possible? Alex said.

I see you’ve been doing some homework. I bet you do this with all of your women, make them feel good and then play with their emotions. Is that what you plan on doing to me, Mr. Thurston, playing with… my… emotions? Eva asked.

No, but I do hope to get a chance to play with you. Will you give me that chance? But first, can I get to know you and take you to dinner? Alex said.

Let me see, I guess I can have dinner with you, since you went to all this trouble to find me, or maybe it was no trouble at all finding me. You are, after all, Alex Thurston—infamous bachelor pursued by many distinguished women, Eva said.

Like you said, ‘pursued by.’ Today, I’m pursuing you, and that changes the dynamics. I’m trying to see about you, so can I see? Alex asked.

Well, Alex, I can call you Alex, or do you prefer Mr. Thurston? Eva asked.

Alex is fine! He laughed to himself, thinking about what Derrick said. How about eight o’clock?

Okay then, Alex, eight o’clock is perfect. I have a few things to wrap up, and then I’ll be ready! Eva said.

Eva finally arrived to the store to find two dozen white and pink roses waiting for her. She was not very happy to see the flowers. She thought that they were from Calvin. (He’s the only man that knows pink and white roses are her Achilles heel.) She was starting to get pissed off. The nerve of that man.

Hey, Eva, what’s up, like your flowers? Max was teasing.

Hell no, I know ain’t nobody but Calvin sent me those damn flowers! Eva said.

Oh, I don’t think so. It seems to me that someone else knows just how much you love pink and white roses. Why don’t you read the card? Maxine continued to tease.

Eva took the card out the box.

Hey, beautiful, I hope you’re thinking about me just as much as I’m thinkin’ about you. See you soon. AT

Eva instantly got all warm inside thinking about Alex.

Who is AT? asked Samara.

Some guy who sent her some flowers, probably some big shot. You know our big sis has a way with men! Maxine answered.

The same way I’ve been trying to get the two of you to see the potential y’all have when it comes to men. Y’all just content to be with the ballers who eventually end up in jail. Eva walked away. What a waste!

Eva, ain’t nobody trying to waste their time on no dope man. I got a boyfriend whose trying to make something of himself. People have to start somewhere, Samara said as a matter of fact.

My point exactly—a boyfriend, not a man. Sam, you have some much going for you, and you’re wasting your time on a boyfriend. You need to take some pointers from Max and let the men chase you. Why can’t you see all the beauty that you have? Eva said.

I’d rather take pointers from Gina and be my own boss, Samara interjected.

"Well, Gina doesn’t have a boyfriend, she has a career, and that is totally something different. You don’t need to be tied down. You’re only twenty-four, no kids, a brilliant future ahead of you. Besides, it’s not like your boyfriend is totally free. Let me see, as I remember, he has two kids with a girl that was just his friend, and where does he work again? Oh, I forgot, he can’t keep a job because he’s a rapper, the kind who doesn’t have a record deal. Sam, sweetheart, he’s twenty-eight with no future, and he is just stringing you along. I know he probably handles his business in the bed, but there’s more to life. How about living? Dump that buster before you be the next friend with his third baby. You know I love you and only want the best for you, we all do. If you don’t listen to me, listen to my life and your twin’s life. She doesn’t waste her time on no dumb-ass bums, Eva lectured. Speaking of time, what time is it?"

It’s about three thirty, almost closing time. Why, where are you going? asked Maxine.

I’m going out to dinner with an associate, anything else, Ms. Scott? Eva said, thinking about Alex and where he might be taking her.

She felt like she was in junior high again. The moment she understand the power she had over the male species, she began to get goose bumps. She hadn’t felt like this in a long time, not even when Calvin was trying to get with her. That was nothing compared to the range of emotions she’s feeling now.

Hello, hello, Eva, can you come back from la-la land for just a minute? I just wanted to know, can we close early? Maxine said.

Uh, no, close at our regular time—five o’clock, not a minute before. Do you understand? I’m getting ready to leave so I can get ready for my dinner date. Max, Sam, I’m serious, do not close early. If Momma comes to the store, you can leave, only if she is willing to close! Eva said.

Okay, if Momma comes. What if Daddy comes, then what? Max asked.

"Well, I already know that he’s not going to let you leave. This is our legacy. I started this business so we could be our own bosses. Eventually, Marina and I were going to let you get this store for your own, but how can we do that if you won’t stay and work it? You and Max got one year left for your master’s in business administration and you act like you don’t want to have your own business. You could rename the store TWINZ and hire only twins as a marketing strategy. I know you want your own business ’cause that’s all you talk about, but being your own boss means putting in the hours. This could be your start-up business, since it’s already established, you don’t have to do the legwork like me and Marina had to. I just want the best for the two of you. Now do you see why I’m so hard on you guys? Anyway, I gotta go. I love y’all. Remember this, my baby is the Internet business. Eventually, this could be your baby if you want," Eva encouraged.

"We know, we love you too, we’re not taking this for granted just because you’re our sister. We recognize the opportunity that lies ahead of us. We just wanted to get a head start on our weekend. Sam and I are going to the club. I want her to meet someone so James could leave her alone. She already told him it was over, especially since his baby mama had another baby. So you don’t have to worry about her or me for that matter. We are single and loving it," Maxine said.

I don’t believe you about Sam leaving James alone, but if you say so, said Eva.

Max doesn’t have to say so. I say so. We really are over. That doesn’t stop me from caring for him, does it? Samara asked.

No, but care and love yourself more. No one outside of family will. Only then will the right man come along. You see how Calvin is still chasing me. It’s over for us because all he thought about was himself. Now he is by himself, available to whomever, but me and he is sick about it. I love me more, that’s why I didn’t accept his cheating. I know what I’m worth. Do you know what you’re worth? Look, I really have to go, so keep what we talk about in mind. I love y’all. I’ll see y’all later, Eva said.

Okay, have a nice time and tell Alex we said hello! Sam said while Max busted out laughing.

Oh my god, you little brats! Eva couldn’t believe he got to her sisters. Whatever happened to privacy and sister loyalty? Eva was fussing, but she was glad and thankful to her sisters for interfering.

What else was he capable of she could only imagine. She didn’t know what else to expect for this evening. All she knew was that she was going to be with Alex. She was headed back to her condo in Fort Lee. She was going to take a nice hot bubble bath. Normally, she hated the commute from New Jersey to New York and back largely due to the traffic. It can be a bitch when you’re ready to get home, but this day was different ’cause she had Alex on the brain. Eva was tripping over the effects this man was having over her. She felt like a schoolgirl. She couldn’t get home fast enough. Eva wanted to get the evening started. Once she got home, she kicked her shoes off, checked her mail, and checked her voice mail. She had ten messages on her machine. She pushed the start button and walked off to start her bath water.

Message 1: Hi, baby, it’s me Cal. When can I see you? I miss you. Can we have dinner? I’ll be in town tomorrow. Call me. Still in love with you.

Message 2: Baby, it’s me Cal, are you there? I’ll be home tomorrow. I can’t wait to see you.

This man got a lot of nerve calling me like it’s not over. I can’t believe him, you would think it wasn’t over. I have moved on. You should try it, Eva was thinking to herself.

Message 3: Hello, beautiful, I hope you liked the flowers. Tell your sisters I said thanks for the tips. Looking forward to seeing you soon. Enjoy the presents. AT.

What presents? she thought to herself.

Message 4: Hey, sugar, it’s me Daddy. A package was delivered to the house from someone named Alex, and he asked if we wouldn’t mind giving it to you. The twins called and said he was a friend and said he was all right, so Momma and I brought it to your house. It’s on your bed. Momma says hi.

Oh my god, this man has my whole family on his team. Who is he for real? He’s going all out! Eva thought.

Message 5: Hey, girl, I see he has won over the family, and he contacted me. You are going to really be envied now for sure. Have fun on your dinner date. I want to hear all about it when you get back. I hope you got your passport. That’s all I’m gonna say.

My passport, for what? Eva goes back into the bathroom to turn off the water.

Message 6: Hey, sis, it’s me Gigi. I got your message. I’m on my last rounds, and I’ll stop by before you go on your date. See you later. Love you.

Damn, he got to Gina too. Who is this man? I might be in over my head for real now, she wondered.

Message 7: Eva, it’s me Cal. Pick up the phone. You blocked my number from your cell. Why? Call me, please, baby. I miss you. I need you, baby. I know I messed up. Call me.

Sorry ass liar, he know he don’t mean it, singing another sad love song by Toni B.

Message 8: Oh, I know why you not returning my calls. You got somebody new, huh? Tell me that’s just a rumor.

Dang, word travels fast! We haven’t even been out yet, Eva said out loud.

Message 9: I can’t believe you messing with that nigga. He ain’t gonna do nothing but break your heart. He got about two other women he fuck wit. Ask him about Staci and Dena.

Oh, he is so desperate. He’s a hater, the pot calling the kettle . . .

Message10: Hello, beautiful, just thought I’d call ’cause I’m thinking about you. You thinking ’bout me?

I sure am thinking ’bout you! I can’t wait to see you either, Eva says out loud.

The doorbell rang. I’m not gonna ever be able to get ready. Let me see who it is. Who is it? Eva said.

It’s your sister, open the door! Gina said from the other side of the door.

Oh hey, girl, why didn’t you use your key? Eva asked.

Because I didn’t know if you had company or not. Well, do you? Gina curiously asked.

Do I what—oh, have company, no, I’m trying to get ready for my date. I was just getting ready to get in the tub. Have you been home yet? Eva asked.

No, but I’ll be going in a minute.

Eva was happy to have her sister and Marina live in the same condo complex as her. It made her feel like they were still in their college days.

Eva, when is Marina coming back from Cali? Gina asked.

She should be back in a few days. Did you check on her place? Eva answered.

No, I haven’t had time, but I will before I leave, Gina said.

Okay, thanks a lot. Let me get ready. I got an hour and a half to be ready, Eva said.

Well, go on and get ready. I can talk while you get yourself together. Eva walked out to get herself together. So tell me how did the meeting go today ’cause I know you were rather excited about it, Gina inquired.

It went extremely well. It’s very promising. We are about to expand our horizons to include a line of shoes and jewelry. Gina, come here. Oh my god, no, he didn’t. Girl, he sent me an evening dress, some shoes, and look at this necklace. It’s from Tiffany & Co. The man has taste. I definitely like him now. He got the right size dress and shoes. Now who told him what size I wear? Gina, do you know anything about this? Eva yelled.

Okay, I’m guilty. I told him you wear a size 7 shoe, but he guessed about your clothing size, size 8, Gina confessed.

What is wrong with this family? A total stranger asks about me and y’all all give up the 411 on me. Where’s the loyalty?

Eva was a little peeved, but she knew her family meant well. She just didn’t like the invasion of her privacy. Who was she kidding? She loved the fact that he went through so much effort to find out about her. It was flattery she was accustomed to but on a different level. She didn’t know what to expect next. She was a little scared to think about it.

Just then, she realized she didn’t know his number to call him and thank him. Yes, she does. It should be in her cell phone. She would be sure to call and thank him when she got out the tub.

She heard the phone ringing. Gina, could you get that for me.

Yeah, I can get it. Gina answered the phone. Hello.

Oh, I see you’re finally answering the phone. What, you act like you don’t want to talk to me? Eva, what’s going on? the man said.

Who is this? Gina asked.

Oh, real funny, now I know you trippin’. This is how you act ’cause you kicking it with that nigga Alex. You just gonna forget what we had, huh? It’s like that. His dollars got your head in a cloud, baby. You know it’s me! the man continued.

Me, who? Gina said.

Damn, Eva, it’s me Cal, Calvin, your man.

Gina, who is it? Eva called from the other room.

It’s Cal, Calvin, your man, remember him? Gina mocked.

Oh, my bad, who is this, Gina? Calvin asked.

Yes, it is Gina. Look, Calvin, you messed up with my sister, and she has moved on, and she doesn’t want you anymore, Gina told him.

"Oh, I see. I knew y’all was close, but he got you blinded too. I thought you, of all people, was smarter than that! Alex don’t mean her no good. I know him," Calvin said.

"Well, I hate to disappoint you, but you are the reason Eva doesn’t want you, not anyone else. I’m sorry, Calvin, but Eva truly has moved on, and it has nothing to do with another man. You had your chance, and you chose to be a player. So stop with the juvenile insults and move on with your life, player," Gina said.

Eva walked in the room. I know you are not still on the phone with him? Hang up the phone.

Yes, he’s still on the phone, and I was just getting ready to hang up… Bye, Calvin.

Gina, wait, let me speak to her, please? Calvin asked.

Holding her hand over the receiver, Gina said, He wants to speak to you.

Gigi, it’s over between us. Hang up the phone.

Eva, here, you tell him yourself, okay? Gina handed her sister the phone.

Eva took the phone. I said I didn’t want to talk, you can be so friendly at times. I don’t want to hear no more of his lies. Besides, I don’t have time. I don’t have a lot of time to get ready, Eva said, getting fed up with Calvin’s weak-ass apologies, and she hung up.

The phone rang again, this time Eva snatched the phone off the receiver. Didn’t I tell you I didn’t want to speak to you no more? Now quit calling me. We’re through!

Beautiful, I’m just getting to know you. It’s over so soon? Alex said.

Oh no, hi, Alex. I’m sorry, I thought you were someone else. Anyway, I wanted to thank you for everything so far. Where are you? Please don’t tell me you are outside my condo. Eva softened her voice.

No, actually, I’m not far from you, but I am on my way. Are you ready? Alex said.

I will be ready, see you soon, I gotta finish getting ready. Eva hung up the phone. Gina, I can’t wait for you to meet him.

Well, sweetie, it won’t be tonight because I’m exhausted. I’m gonna go home and take me a bath, watch a TNT special, and crash. How does that sound for a hot date? Gina expressed.

Boring. Did you eat? What are you gonna have for dinner?

Eva was curious because her sister had poor eating habits, even though she was a doctor. It’s because she’s a doctor she has poor eating habits, at least that’s what Gina tells everyone.

I’ll make me a salad and have some lemonade. How does that sound, ‘Momma’? No, I know. I’ll be all right, don’t worry ’bout me. Enjoy your night, Gina said.

Eva walked off and finally took a bath and went about getting ready for her date.

Gina, I do worry ’bout you, the twins, Marina, Momma and Daddy. Anyway, zip me up. How do I look? Eva said.

Fabulous as always, almost as good as me. Gina began to laugh.

Anyway, you wish you looked as good as me in your dreams, Eva joked.

Only in your dreams could you look as good as me, Gina replied.

Girl, don’t play, I’m fine, okay? Let me get going. He should be pulling up any minute, Eva said.

What a diva! Ms. Eva is not making the man wait. Oh yeah, I definitely have to meet him now, I think I will meet him, Gina said.

The phone rang. Eva answered it. Hello.

Hi, beautiful, I’m out front. Would you like for me to come in? Alex said.

Yes, I would, I’m just about done getting ready. The door is open, just let yourself in, and make yourself comfortable, okay? Eva said.

That’s fine. I’ll be in in just a second, love, Alex said, pouring on the charm.

Eva went back into her bedroom after unlocking her front door to finish getting ready for her evening. Just then, the phone rang again. She answered the phone. Hello.

Hey, baby, I finally get a chance to talk to you. Whacha doing? You know, I miss you. I figured these couple of weeks apart would have you missing me? Calvin said.

Well, you figured wrong. Besides, it was you who decided we were over when you cheated! Do you get that? Eva said.

Baby, we can make it work. I’ve changed. I now know that I’m nothing without you. Can you forgive me? Baby, I’m sick without you, and I want you back in my life. I can’t take this no more. Stop playing and let me come back home? Calvin pleaded.

Calvin, I’m not playing games. We are through, over, done, finito, you understand? Eva said as a matter of fact.

Eva heard Alex come in and call for her to let her know he’s in her house. She responded back just so Calvin can hear. I’m in the bedroom, Alex. Look, Calvin, I gotta go, I have company.

Oh, that’s why I can’t come back. You’re trying to get even with me. Well, we’re even. I want to come home. Better yet, you go out. I’ll be home when you come back. So get this out your system and let’s start over. We’ll both start over with a clean slate. Good night, baby, Calvin said.

Eva hung up the phone and went in the living room to join Alex and Gina.

Alex, just in case you two haven’t introduced yourselves, this is my sister Gina. Gina, this is Alex.

Well, beautiful, we have met. Again, Gina, it was nice meeting you. Turning his attention to Eva, he asked, Are you ready?

Yes, I am, ready as I’ll ever be, I suppose.

Just as they were about to leave, the phone rang again.

Beautiful, you want to answer that? Alex asked.

No, I’ll let the machine get that. The person I want to talk to is standing right in front of me. She smiled, and they walked out the door.

Eva and Alex were headed down Route 80 to Teterboro Airport. Only Eva looked confused because she couldn’t imagine where they were going.

Are you okay?

Yes, I’m fine. Where are we going?

That’s a surprise. How do you feel about seafood?

I know you had to know that’s my favorite. I see you are going all out for me… for us. I just want to know, does everyone get this type of treatment from you?

No, just you. This is the first time I’ve actually taken to a woman the way that I’m taken by you. I don’t count my mother or my sister. My mother could get the world from me, and I believe you could too if you act right! Alex just laughed to himself.

You’re scaring me just a little, Eva replied in a flirtatious manner. I was wondering, you know some things about me, why don’t you tell me about yourself? I feel like I’m at a disadvantage.

Eva, baby, I don’t think you could ever be at a disadvantage unless you wanted to be. This, I’m sure of. What do you want to know about me? My life is an open book.

I don’t know, start at the beginning.

In the beginning was the word, and the word was with God, and the word was God . . .

No, silly, I’m talking about the beginning of Alex Thurston!

"Oh, that beginning, okay, here it goes. I’m the youngest son of Cedric and Tricia, brother to Cedric Jr. and Trinity, brother to a sister named Stephanie, husband to none, father to none, boss to many, friend of Derrick, cousin to a lot. That’s basically it. Now I hope to be your man, companion, friend, and lover. Look, Eva, I am a man who knows what