It's Above Me Now.

13: Hidden Messages

But enough of Ruben and all the mess that came with him for one night. Him nor Margo wasn't going to ruin the mood I was in. Jogging lightly down the massive staircase, I met up with Lou at the entrance of the Moss mansion. He looked more relaxed than usual, and was in casual clothing. I nodded in approval, and Lou smiled at my facial compliment. I guess I wasn't the only one taking a break from all things Veronica and Ruben.

When Lou and I walked out, I couldn't help but notice the enchanting view before us. It was dark out, but the lights around the house kept a soothing vibe present. The tranquility of the waterfall from the outside fountain was not only visually pleasing but euphonious, while the lion statues gave an edgy and mysterious feel towards the house. The Moss premises was surely a sight to see. I shook my head annoyingly as I entered the car, because a thought of bringing Chanel here and doing some cute shit popped into my head. I really needed to stop thinking about that bitch. We were over. Done. Finito.

"So where to?" Lou asked, buckling his seat belt.

I gave Lou the address and he smirked. Yeah, he knew what time it was. My demeanor alone told him what was going down. Miranda been throwing it at me for a while now, and it was about time I caught it. I didn't have a reason to dodge it anymore.

Lou and I actually had a great car ride. He was definitely more in his element and gave decent conversation, opening up to me a bit. I learnt some interesting facts about him and his brother Bud during the ride, for they were working for Ruben from the time my father was a child. Bud and Lou basically raised Ruben when his father was away on different trips and work events, which was very often. Lou shared some small details about my grandfather, stressing about what a powerful man he is although he could be very cold hearted towards his children. Lou also commented on the untimely death of my grandmother, noting that she was a remarkable woman who was the glue that kept the family together. Everything went downhill when she passed. And apparently Lou and Bud played a monumental part in my mother's life as well. Hmm, the things you learn when you shut up and listen.

"This isn't such a bad neighborhood. Your new girl must be doing pretty well for herself." Lou said, pulling up to Miranda's home.

"Whoa." I said, laughing. "She ain't no new nothing."

"Then what is she?" Lou asked, sounding genuinely confused.

The car came to a stop and I glanced over at Lou. "Let's just say she's my distraction for the night."

Lou scoffed. "You young kids are something else. Whatever happened to meeting a lady, going on dates, meeting the family, getting married? Tell me that shit's not dead. What is this hook up culture everyone's partaking in?"

"Now come on man." I responded. "Doing things the traditional way is absolutely not dead. I prefer it that way if I'm being honest. But don't try to tell me you ain't ever explored your options before. Sometimes you gotta try all the samples before you select the main course."

Lou laughed aloud, opening the glove compartment which revealed a strip of condoms. "Look at you tryna school me. You're gonna need those. Please be careful with these women out here. They aren't all as sweet as they look. You have a whole new life now. A rich, luxurious one where women will cling to you just because of it. Sad to say but most of the time these women just want piece of the pie. Chance, I see you. You're incredibly smart with so much potential. Don't let anyone deceive you. Always keep your eyes open, and watch your back."

I nodded, deeply moved and grateful for Lou's advice. I could always respect someone who gave genuine insight and kept it real. Although I knew what could come with the territory of living a wealthy and envious life, I'm glad Lou still took the time out to share wise words. I was warming up to the idea of constantly having him around. Maybe he wasn't so bad after all.