The Love That Grew

Ch. 17 Gotcha

California

December

The sweat beads trailed down Tahiri's back as she rehearsed her set for the umpteenth time that day. Refusing to make a fool out of herself, she wanted every move to be perfect. Eric watched in awe; if the lyrics didn't capture the crowd, her sex appeal surely would.

"Can't we go home already? I'm tired and hungry," Alexis groaned. They'd been at it for hours.

Rolling her eyes and stopping the music, Tahiri gave the girl a tight-lipped smile. The two were still friends, but Alexis's recent negative comments and energy had caused Tahiri to pull back completely. The only reason they were even in the same space was because, unbeknownst to Tahiri, Eric had already promised Alexis a spot on the team. For the time being, she would serve as one of Tahiri's backup dancers.

"Lex, you of all people know how important this is to me. If you don't want to be here, then go. You've done nothing but complain the whole day."

"You're just an opening act, relax. It's not like people are coming to see—"

"That's enough. Let's wrap it up for today, and y'all can pick back up in a few days," Eric cut in, dismissing the group. Alexis grinned, getting her way and quickly gathering her things. The pair had been seemingly close lately, showing up to rehearsal together, having hushed conversations, and their new thing was going against Tahiri every chance they got.

Tahiri huffed, making her way towards the parking lot. Eric's heavy footsteps trailed behind, yanking her arm to stop her from entering her car.

"You and Lex need to cut the drama. It's making everyone else uncomfortable."

"Tell her to stop first and don't pull on me like that. Are you crazy?"

"What's wrong? I thought you liked it rough," he whispered seductively in her ear. Tahiri felt her lower half heat up as memories of their last encounter floated in her mind.

"Hope I'm not interrupting... Don't you have somewhere to be, Ta?" Alexis interrupted, hand on her hip, eyes burning a hole in the side of Eric's face.

There was no doubt in Tahiri's mind that Alexis and Eric had something going on. She just hoped things wouldn't get messy while they were on the road.

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Jashae cursed under her breath as she wandered through the packed plaza. Bumping into people every five steps "excuse me" quickly became her most hated phrase.

It seemed like everyone was out doing last minute Christmas shopping. The difference was they were most likely shopping for their family while she was shopping for her new friends.

According to Mrs. Rice, Xavier was simple plus she was already giving him the greatest gift of all there was no need to overthink it.

She already had the perfect gift for Ray, Peezy, Lo and her grandfather, but shopping for Xavier proved to be harder than expected. An ugly sweater was too basic, cash too insensitive, and a homemade gift too childish.

Some hours later, Jashae strolled through the mall, hands filled with shopping bags and an empty belly. Her stomach growled as she passed the food court. She knew Tahiri would gag if she saw her eating anywhere less than a four-star restaurant, but Jashae could practically taste the sweet, creamy crab rangoon filling on her tongue as she stood in line waiting to order.