"You look good, the only thing necessary to top it off is pink gloss." Tionne advised as she stood back and took a look at my date attire. I rummaged through my bag for lipgloss to apply and reviewed the finished product in the mirror. I kept it rather simple, donning a black cropped top with ripped jeans and chucks that complimented my midriff exposing top. I decided not to wrestle with my hair and leave it in it's natural curled state.
When the doorbell sounded, I shot a nervous look towards Tionne, who only gave me a smile that said 'good luck, I hope it goes well but you're on your own now'. Out of her own mouth though, she told me "Girl, you'll be fine. Just go have fun.". I thanked her and assured her that I would even knowing I was worrisome.
Upon opening the door I was met with the sight of O'Shea. Once he had pulled his eyes from the ground and up to mine, a smile found it's way to his round face. I felt almost flattered, as that frown he sported seemed permanent. "Ma, you look good." He commented simultaneously observing me from top to bottom.
I can admit it brought some heat to my face as I returned the sentiment. "Thank you, you know you look good too. Clean up well in a thug, gangsta rapper kind of way." I teased.
"Not nearly as good as you, but for your information I'm dressed for the occasion since we're headed to Skateland. You don't know how well Ice Cube can clean up." He confidently corrected me. I felt a jolt of enthusiasm at the mention of the city's hot spot skate rink. It seemed perfect timing, since everyone where we're from knew there was no place like Skateland on a Friday night... except maybe Skateland on a Saturday night.
"Good choice, I haven't been there in weeks. Now I get to go back and embarrass you with my skills on the floor?" I joked. He looked at me and nearly scoffed, as if there was something hilarious about what I had said. "Embarrass me? I'm cold with some wheels on my feet and a good record playing, come on now don't set yourself up for disappointment, Lopes. I think I'll take it easy tonight though, this is supposed to be fun, we don't want you leaving in tears." O'Shea attempted to intimidate me.
I tossed my head back to laugh at that idea. "Alright now, let's get out of here then. 'Cause I'm bad on some skates, so this is definitely gonna be fun. For me at least. I think you're just trying to impress me or something, thinking you're better than Lisa Lopes on wheels." And on that note we left out, leaving Tionne at my place.
•
Montell Jordan's 'This Is How We Do It' echoed throughout the building as everyone around us including ourselves had the time of their lives. The atmosphere was a light hearted one where reality seemed altered, as if we were in some movie.
By the time the song had come to an end, it had also come time for us to leave as the rink was closing. Strolling out towards the parking lot O'Shea checked in on my enjoyment of the night. "You had fun?"
It felt amazing to have had such a good time. It felt like a lifetime since I'd genuinely enjoyed myself to the extent of that particular night. "Of course, that was amazing. Ten out of ten, would do it again." I told him nodding and grinning slightly.
"Yeah this was such a nice break from writing. I needed it." He expressed as we very slowly stride back to the car.
"All of it'll be worth it when y'all get big. The hard work is gonna pay off, y'all are gonna be something special."
"You think so?" He asked, glancing over at me.
I scoffed. "I know. You and the rest of the boys are giving a voice to those of us in the struggle. Who can't appreciate that?"
"I just hope we can get people listening."
"Give it some time, you will. You have an amazing skill, don't doubt yourself."
He just looked at me. "You know you're really supportive for somebody I just met."
I shrugged. "I'd like to think I recognize greatness when it crosses my path."
After I said that, we pulled up in my driveway, and he kissed me again. Actually, more so making out.
O'Shea said, "I want you to be my girl." and I could only ask him how he was sure of that so soon. He told me, "I could have met you two hours ago, and I'd still know that right now I have to snatch you before anyone else can get the chance.
I smiled warmly at him. I was concerned that it was such short notice and too soon, but somehow I was comfortable and content with that proposal. "Alright, yeah. I'll be your girl."
A smile now broke out across his face before he kissed me and I went in the house. Tionne had been watching tv in the living room, just waiting for me to come in and fill her in on every detail.
