Beyond Music

Together As One

Malcolm and I finished our lunch date in the park, the warm sun shining down on us as we laughed and talked over our sandwiches and lemonade. As we walked back to his car, I couldn't help but notice how his strong, confident stride matched my own.

Malcolm opened the door for me and drove me back to my place, his hand resting on my knee as we listened to music and chatted about life in general. When we arrived at my doorstep, he walked me to the door, his eyes lingering on mine as he checked the time.

"It's almost 2 pm now," he said, his voice low and husky. "You have a little over two and a half hours to be ready for our dinner date. Is that enough time?"

My heart fluttered at the thought of spending more time with him, and I couldn't resist the urge to tease him.

"Of course, that's plenty enough time," I purred, placing my arms around his neck and giving him a light kiss as he pulled me in closer, his hand tracing my lips as he leaned into whisper in my ear.

"I can't wait to see you all dressed up," he murmured, his breath hot against my skin.

I couldn't help but quiver at his words, feeling a rush of desire wash over me.

"I'll make sure to make it worth the wait," I replied, my voice low and seductive.

Malcolm pulled back slightly, his eyes darkening with desire as he watched me with intense hunger. He leaned in to kiss me again, his lips moving hungrily against mine as he spoke in between kisses.

"I can't wait to have you all to myself," he murmured, his voice rough with need. My body responded instinctively, my arms tightening around his neck as I returned his kisses with equal fervor.

Finally, we pulled apart, both of us breathless and wanting more.

"I'll see you in a few," Malcolm said, his voice thick with desire.

"Okay," I replied, my voice husky with anticipation.

I waved goodbye to Malcolm as he drove away, my heart danced as I scrambled to dial McKenzie's number. My fingers trembled with anticipation as I waited for her to answer. Surprisingly, she picked up on the first ring.

"It's tea time!" I screamed with excitement, my happiness radiating through the phone.

"Ah, shit! Girl, I'm on the way!" McKenzie responded in equal fervor before hanging up.

I could feel my heart beating out of my chest as I waited for McKenzie to arrive. I didn't bother locking the door, too caught up in my excitement. I turned on some music and danced my way into the kitchen, feeling as carefree as a lark in early spring. The music flowed through me, and I twirled and sang with all my might.

I reached into the cupboards for glasses and then grabbed some grown folk juice from the refrigerator. But as I closed the door, my heart stopped as I saw William standing there, his intense gaze fixed on me. He slammed the refrigerator door shut, and I flinched in fear. It was then that I remembered I hadn't changed the locks on the door, and I had left it open for my sister. I braced myself for William's anger, knowing I had been ignoring his calls and messages for weeks.

"I have to ask, what- or rather, who- has you so fucking busy that you can't even answer me?" he asked, slamming his hand against the kitchen counter.

My heart seemed to have paused as I searched for the right words to say, my mind a jumbled mess. But as I looked into William's intense eyes, I knew he was on some violent bullshit.