Picture Perfect

4.

~Sam~

It's been about an hour since Eli left with Jari. Jabari is still out on the court or in the back taking some time to calm himself down.

Kyler and I have been caring after the twins. I just fed Jameis his puffs and he's in the kitchen trying to figure out what Jamara wants for a snack. She's saying no to everything in such a respectful way, it's cute.

"Okay, look. I think strawberries are a good choice. They are sweet, they are healthy, and full of vitamins. I mean you like to look at everything, they're good for your eyes too... I think." He playfully covers her eyes and lifts his hand again.

She laughs and puts her hand out for a strawberry. He moves over to cut it into tiny slices for her and then he looks at the time on the fridge.

"His parents are going to be here soon nothing is prepared." He looks my way. "You cook?"

I shrug.

"I can do a little something. But I'm used to eating out so much. I need my memory refreshed."

He nods.

"I got you. The kids play mat set up?"

"Yup." I walk over and grab Jamara from in front of him slightly brushing up against him.

"Sorry." He tells me.

"Nah, you're good." I smile to myself. He smells so good.

I put both the kids in their play area after moving it over so that they remain in our line of sight.

"So that was a lot." I start as I rest against the counter.

He goes into the fridge and takes out the cheeses, the butter, and the green beans.

He meets my eyes.

"It definitely was. He's hurt about some shit definitely. He was way out of line with the stuff he said to her. She text you or anything?"

I shake my head no.

"She's alright though. She's definitely using his credit card to spite him though." I snicker.

"Nah, I doubt it would piss him off. It may have his name on it but it's their money. That's what I notice about them, like how she said you lay next to me but that's just it. Even when they mad at each other, they are still gonna share that bed. That's love for real."

I laugh to myself.

"That it is. They'll be alright. I think it just needs time to breathe. Love is a trip." I shake my head thinking on everything I've got going on in my own home. If I can even call it that.

"How are you?" He asks me unexpectedly.

I think before responding. I feel like I want to be honest though it's become my nature to lie.

"I'm alive."

"Though it's none of my business, I just want to let you know that I'm sorry you're going through what you're going through. I don't know exactly everything there is to know and you don't have to tell me. But know I'm here for you anytime you need a friend, or just an ear."

I take in a deep breath watching him start to cut up an onion.

"Thank you. But I'm alright."

"Mhmm. Do me a favor and light those candles over there. Well, bring them here first." He instructs.

"Aye Aye Captain Cook." I tease him.

He laughs.

"You know the program. I'mma teach you some shit today." He winks at me and them bright green eyes strike a match within my soul.