Yours Truly

Unfinished Conversations

It had been about three weeks since that party with Alicia—and just as long since I last spoke to Jay. I left that conversation exactly where it was because, truthfully, there was nowhere else for it to go. He had a woman, and I wasn't interested. Sure, he was still handsome, and it was nice to see an old friend after over a decade. But that was all it was—nostalgia. Nothing more.

I was lounging at Alicia's place, half-watching TV while we debated whether or not to go to Jen's birthday celebration that night. She had reserved a private room at The Karaoke, our go-to spot for group events. It was always a small, tight circle—our crew—and we never missed a birthday.

Alicia stood in front of her mirror, flipping through hangers.

Alicia: "Deja, I don't even know what to wear."

Me: "The way your closet is set up—"

Alicia: "Aht! Don't even start! Ha!"

Me: "I'm just saying... You've got options. That black two-piece with the back out? It's giving."

Alicia: "Hmm... not a bad idea. Cute and comfy, that's the vibe I'm going for anyway."

Me: "I think I'm going with a knee-length bodycon. Just not sure on the color yet."

Alicia: "All black?"

Me: "Nah, I'm tired of all black. Maybe olive green."

Alicia: "Yes ma'am! That color compliments your skin so well."

Me: "You're right! Thank you, sis. Let's just go. We've got nothing else to do tonight."

Alicia: "I'm with it."

I headed home to get ready. My hair didn't need much—my locs were freshly retwisted. After a hot shower, I pulled them up into a high bun and went light with my makeup: bronzed skin, chestnut brown lip liner, nude lipstick, and a glossy finish. I slipped into my olive green dress, nude heels, gold accessories, and grabbed my gold-and-clear clutch.

Before heading out, I paused in front of the full-length mirror. Everything looked right. But more than that—I felt good. Light. Free, even. My phone buzzed a few times, but I ignored it. I'd check everything once I got to the car.

As the engine warmed, I glanced through my notifications and texted Alicia to say I was on my way. Most of the messages were small talk, which I usually skipped. But then I saw it—a message from Jay.

Sent an hour ago.

"Oh wow," I murmured.

I tapped it open.

Jay: Dejaaaaa how you been fam?

I stared at the screen for a beat. I hadn't expected to hear from him—especially after I left him on seen almost a month ago. Still, I made a mental note to reply after I got to Alicia's. I wasn't looking for anything—but I wasn't rude either. Maybe he wouldn't notice the delay.

As I pulled out of the driveway, my phone rang. It was my mom.

Me: "Hey Mom! What's going on?"

Mom: "Hey sweetie. You doing alright?"

Me: "Yes ma'am. You?"

Mom: "I'm good. Just calling to check on you."

Me: "Aww, I love you for that."

Mom: "Love you too, sweet girl. Are you driving?"

Me: "Yep. On my way to Jen's birthday at The Karaoke."

Mom: "Oh, I remember Jen. Okay, well get there safe and enjoy yourself."

Me: "Thanks, Mom. I'll text you when I arrive."