The Love That Grew

Ch. 26 Blurred Lines

California

May

"I just don't get it Lex, I don't come with baggage, I look good, and I fuck good I really don't know what's not clicking for Xavier"

Alexis sat listening to Tahiri vent about her relationship troubles unphased. This was typical Ta behavior deflecting she never took accountability for her wrongdoings.

"I mean he's been back in the city for a little over an hour. He hasn't answered his phone once what could possibly be more important than checking in with me?"

"You mean who? You did say him and Jashae have been real close lately. Check his location" Lex instigated

"I-I trust Xavier, he's not like...."

Alexis shook her head at how easy it was to manipulate the insecure woman beside her and continued looking through the clothing racks. A sales associate approached them asking if they needed help finding anything momentarily breaking up their conversation.

Tahiri carelessly handed her purse to Lex while she tried on a few things in the dressing room.

Alexis watched Tahiri disappear into the dressing room, her expression a mix of amusement and annoyance. She knew Tahiri well enough to see through her deflections and excuses. It was easy to manipulate someone so consumed by their own insecurities and jealousy.

As she rifled through Tahiri's purse, something caught her eye—Tahiri's phone. Smirking to herself, Alexis opened it and saw a thread of unanswered messages and missed calls to Xavier. She couldn't help but feel a hint of satisfaction. This drama was playing out just as she expected.

Returning her attention to the clothes, Alexis picked out a few dresses and handed them to the sales associate. She decided to have a little more fun. "Could you also bring some more options in the smaller sizes? Tahiri's been working hard on her figure," she said sweetly, ensuring that the associate would relay the compliment.

When Tahiri emerged from the dressing room, wearing a dress that clung to her newly slimmed-down frame, Alexis couldn't help but give a backhanded compliment. "You look great, Ta I can see all that hard work is paying off. Xavier will definitely notice."

Tahiri's face lit up "You think so? I just want to be perfect for him."

Alexis plastered on a smile. "Absolutely. But, you know, maybe it wouldn't hurt to give him a little space. Let him miss you."

Tahiri's brows furrowed slightly, but she nodded. "Maybe you're right. I just hate feeling ignored."

The sales associate returned with more dresses, and Alexis stepped back, letting Tahiri enjoy the attention. As she watched Tahiri pose, she couldn't help but feel a sense of control over the situation. She had Tahiri wrapped around her finger, and as long as she kept feeding into her insecurities, she could keep this game going for as long as she wanted.

As they left the store with their purchases, Alexis couldn't resist dropping more unsolicited relationship advice. "Just remember, Ta, you're the prize. Xavier should be grateful to have you. If he can't see that, maybe he's not the one for you"

Tahiri looked thoughtful, her confidence wavering slightly. "Yeah, maybe you're right. I'll give him some space tonight."

Alexis smiled to herself, knowing she had successfully gotten inside Tahiris head. The drama was far from over, and she was going to enjoy every moment of it.