Later that night, after the Raptors game, the house was quiet.
The kids had eaten, played, and were now fast asleep. Aubrey and his friends were downstairs, their laughter and conversation faintly carrying through the mansion, but I couldn't bring myself to join them.
Preme's words from earlier at the game still clung to me, heavy and persistent.
The question haunted me, did all of Aubrey's friends think that about me?
Did he think that about me? I couldn't bear the idea of facing them right now, so instead of heading to Aubrey's room like usual, I went back to the guest room he had originally set up for me.
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I was in the bathroom brushing my teeth, trying to focus on anything other than my swirling thoughts. As I rinsed my mouth and wiped my face, I heard the door to the room open and close softly.
"Nah, Dad's in Memphis. He'll be here tomorrow," Aubrey's voice carried into the room, casual and relaxed. "When you coming, nigga?"
I paused, staying in the bathroom for a moment as I listened.
"Nigga, I'm about to get on my flight soon! Should've sent me your plane like I said!" I recognized the other voice immediately—it was his brother.
"'Cause last time you left my shit dirty, nigga," Aubrey shot back, his tone teasing.
I couldn't help but chuckle a little, despite my mood.
"Just let me know when you're here, damn."
"Alright." The call ended, and I took a deep breath before stepping out of the bathroom.
Aubrey was sitting on the edge of the bed, his phone still in hand as he scrolled through it. He looked up when he heard me, a small smile tugging at his lips.
"You hiding from me now?" he asked lightly, his tone curious but with an edge of concern.
I hesitated, my heart skipping a beat. "No, I just... wanted some space," I mumbled, grabbing my lotion and keeping my back to him as I pretended to focus on moisturizing.
He didn't say anything right away, but I could feel his eyes on me, studying me.
"Something's been up with you since we left the game," he finally said, standing up from the bed. "What's going on, Onika?"
"I'm fine," I replied quickly, too quickly. My shoulders tensed as I kept my gaze on the dresser, avoiding him.
"Come on," he pressed gently, his voice closer now. "I know when something's bothering you. Talk to me."
I sighed, trying to keep my emotions in check.
But even as I stood there, my mind kept going back to Preme's words, the doubt they planted, and the way they made me feel.
