Chapter 6: Bobbie

"Nice back hand," Justin flirted as return the ball to me. I smiled. I had just started learning how to play tennis. I thought it would be a great way to fit in with these corporate bitches and give me an excuse to get some exercise. So I found a private coach. Justin was a tennis pro who had just finished undergrad at Duke. He was smart, cute and young but I could tell his preppy ass was into white girls or others period so I didn't respond to his flirty ways.



"Thanks Justin," I responded hitting the hell out of the ball. Justin and I continued to play until as usual Justin killed me. I accepted defeat and retreated to my bottle of water on the bench. I was sure that Justin typically charged his clients 10 times what he charged me to help me out so I didn't trip when he was ready to end our session earlier.



"Where's your man?" Justin asked as he walked toward me with his racket in hand.


"I think he will be here soon. It's only 5:45."


"Okay. Good game Bobbie. You are my star," he smiled put his hands on my shoulders.


"Told you I would get this tennis shit and rock it," I laughed.


"Well you my friend are a natural. I think we need to get you in a league. That way you can put those skills to use."


"Sounds good," I blushed.


"Oh by the way, my girlfriend is performing tonight at Apache. I was wondering if you and your man might want to come out and support. She needs a full house. The show starts at 9." He announced putting his balls and racket in his tennis bag.


"That sounds like a plan. I will definitly come out Justin."


"Cool, well are you going to be okay if I leave. I know your dude's not here yet but he should be here shortly right?" Justin asked. "I mean if your not comfortable I could wait with you but I need to run a few errands before the show."


"No its cool. You can go. He better be here soon." I snapped picking up my bag.



I walked up the stairs chatting with Justin about a tennis league and then waved good bye as he got into his black infinity. I waited about a half hour before I called Ramon trif behind. As usual he didnt pick up. I was beginning to get irriatated so I sent him a text and walked over to the recreation side of the park. I could at least continue the work out as I waited on that fool to hurry up. Another half hour went by with no response or word so I decided to call Elle. She lived close to Piedmont park so she should be able to pick me up in no time.



"Hey girl, are you home? I need you to pick me up from the tennis courts." I explained.


"Sure, your lucky I just got home from the airport," Elle sighed.



She hung up and I texted Ramon again. I was hoping his stupid self would get to the park and not find me and be frantic. He knew he was wrong for driving my car and not picking me up on time. I sighed. I really needed to get rid of him. I knew he was too young and too full it but I loved his young ass. I should just put him out for a little while. Then he will learn not to try my patience.







Elle pullled up five minutes after I called. I hopped in her car and looked over to my tired friend. Her hair was pulled back into a pony tail and she was wearing jeans and a pair of flip flops. Her baby tee looked to be from one of her marketing campaigns because it definitely wasnt one of the designer t-shirts I was use to her wearing.



"Should I take you home?" Elle asked



"Yeah girl,please take me home. I am about to whip Ramon's butt when I catch up with him. Having me wait here this long."





"Girl... You and Ramon. How was your day?" she asked trying to cheer me up.





"It was okay until he ruined it for me. Girl, I really need to get rid of Ramon," I sighed. We rode in silence to my house. The good thing about Elle was she knew how to just let things be. No questions asked and I apperciated that.


"Do you want to go to Apache tonight with me?"


"Why not..."

We got to Apache pretty early. It had it usual buzz of weirdos and artsy people. Elle was definitely in her element but I wasn't. I mean I like live music but I didnt like all the weirdness it attracted. I didnt see Justin but I was definitely looking for his white girlfriend. I never meet her but I was sure that she was one of those artsy white girls that experimented with black men.

"Do you see Justin yet?," I asked looking around until I finally spotted a red head white chick talking to a guy carrying an instrument to the stage.

"Not yet, do you think she's the girlfriend," Elle asked darting her eyes in the direction of the red head. "You said she was white right?"

"Yep, never meet her but I am sure she is the one. She is over there with the band," I responded. At least she was a pretty white girl. I thought. I guess that was better than getting a busted one.

"I need a drink," Elle said motioning the waitress. "Go, Justin. She is really pretty!"

We were both watching the red head girl as she prepared for the show. She was wearing an eggplant purple silk slip dress and fire red pumps. Had to admit the pumps were bad. As I stared I couldn't help but wonder how she meet Justin and how she won his devotion. My thoughts then turned to my own situation. I still couldn't believe Ramon still hadnt shown up with my car. I got so pissed before Elle came to pick me back up that reported my car stolen. All I could think about is his trif behind being laid up with some bitch while I sat waiting for him to pick me up.

"Can I buy you two drink," a familar male voice exclaimed from behind. I turned around to see Justin with a cocoa brown girl on his arm.

"Justin!" Elle exclaimed rising from her seat to give Justin a hug.

Justin returned the hug and kissed Elle on her cheek and then reached down to hug me.

"Bobbie and Elle, this is my girlfriend Alexis,"

I was in shock. His girl was black and she was beautiful. She was wearing a vintage gold mini dress and flat simmering gold boots. She looked too stylish to be an starving artist.

"Nice to meet you both," she exclaimed exposing her dimples from the big smile she flashed in our direction. "Thank you so much for coming out and supporting. Enjoy the show."

She kissed Justin and headed in the direction of the red head white girl that we initially thought was his girlfriend. Justin pulled up a chair and sat between Elle and I.

"Do you mind if I sit with you two lovely ladies and catch the show?"

"Sure, your girlfriend is beautiful." Elle commented as she gently kicked my shoe under the table. "How did you guys meet?"

"We meet in undergrad. I have always had a huge crush on her but she didn't give me any play until we meet up here in Atlanta about a year and half ago. We have been inseperateable ever since," he responded with a school boy grin on his face.

Awww... how cute. I guess there are some guys that get a little senitmental.

"Have you been her before Bobbie?" Justin asked.

"Laugh out loud... you know this isnt my scence huh?" I giggled.

Chapter 5: Elle

"I think you need to look into going back to law school," my mother chimmed as we rode home from church in her new merecedes clk.


I rolled my eyes and ignored her. She was all about me going back to law school. She couldn't believe I dropped out when I did. My mother always tried to control my life. I guess that was most of my problem.


"Baby, I am not trying to tell you what to do but I really think you need to consider your future dear. You just float along doing God knows what with Jay and the rest of the crew. I love Jay but I think you need to get it together girl."


"Moma, I have told you before I hated law school. I didnt want to go in the first place. I like working at the marketing firm. I enjoy what I do and I enjoy my life. Leave me alone," I retroted back. I sunk back in my mom's comfy leather seats and stared into the sceary watching familiar sites go past as we rode in silence.




When we finally got back to my mother and stepfather's home, I immediately headed to my car. My mother sadly waved to me from the garage as I jumped into my car. I wasn't sure where to head or what to do. I wanted to dial some guy and try to be in the company of the opposite sex for sunday brunch and mimosas but I didnt have a number to call. So I decided to drive home then my phone rang.


"Hello," I answered.


"Wow, can't believe I am talking to you. How are you?" a sexy male voice asked.


"Who is this?" I retroted back. I know it was rude but I didnt know who the hell it was and I didnt have time for games.


"I'm sorry this is Adam. You probably don't remember me. I meet you a long time ago in DC. I am JT's line brother. Not sure if you remember me but you told me to hit you up if I ever make it Atlanta. I moved here like two weeks ago. I ran into one of your sorors you use to kick it with in DC Nicole and I begged her for your number," he explained. "Now here I am calling you about two years late I guess."



I was stunned. I remember Adam. He was a cute Alpha who was in Medical school at Howard. I didnt even have a clue he was even interested in me. He was really nice but he was hella quite and he didnt get out too much. JT on the other hand was a nut. I partied like a rockstar with JT. It was a miracle that I didnt flunk out of law school. My DC crew was nuts.



"Hi Adam. Its been a long time. So you're in Atlanta. How is JT?" I asked. Maybe I should have said more but it was a weird conversation.



"He is good. Just being JT. He is doing some party promoting in New York now. You know how he does it." Adam laughed. "So what are you doing today? I actually have a day off from the hospital. I would like to catch up with you."



"I don't have too much going on. I am just leaving church with my mom headed home. I was actually entertaining the thought of brunch."



"Lets meet for brunch then. Where do you recommend? I mean unless you have other plans with someone else.."



"Lets go to West Egg."





When I walked into West Egg it wasn't as packed as I expected. Typically its full of young urbanites enjoying brunch and chatting about their upcoming week. I wanted to go home a change from my church pale pink sun dress but Adam said he was pretty close to the area so I figured I didn't want him to go someplace else and then get lost trying to get to me. The waitress sat me by the window in the backroom and I ordered a cup of my usual ginger tea. Adam strolled in about five minutes later. He was dressed in jeans and a thermal tee. He flashed me a smile as I waved at him.


He was about six feet tall, medium brown guy with dimples and a great smile. He had a nice frame, good build and was wearing a pair of wire frame glasses. Adam was one of those super nice guys that went to your church that your mother wanted you to marry. I rose up from my seat and gave him a hug as he approached the table.


"Wow, your still beautiful," he said as he sat down. "Its so great seeing you Elle. I was so nervous calling you. Didn't know if you would even have a clue who I was."



I flashed him a warm smile and pushed my bone straight hair back behind my ears. I was flattered. I had no idea this guy had a crush on me. He barely talked to me in DC. I just remember a few conversation at a few random house parties and I remember seeing him at Howard's homecoming a year and some change ago briefly.



"I am glad you called. So I am assuming you are working on your residency here now. What part of town do you live in? How do you like your job? How do you like the ATL thus far?"



"I am living in Marietta right now with an older chapter bruh and his family until I get a place of my own but thus far its cool. I like it here. I haven't really done much. I don't really know alot of people here expect a few classmates. Thinking about joining a grad chapter to meet some people. I can't believe your actually here. I know this is going to make me sound really wack but I have always had a little crush on you. Its so good to see you."



"Its good to see you too Adam. I am glad you called."



Adam and I talked for hours and then went for a little mini tour of the area. I explained and showed him a few places and apartments to look at and we agreed to do dinner later this week. He explained that when he was in DC he didnt really date because he was focused on school and he thought women would be a distraction. He also said that when he got a job offer in Atlanta he was so excited to try to reconnect with me but he figured I had a boyfriend. I was flattered but I thought he was a little too stakerish for me. He would however be a good distraction from my screwed up love life so I thought it would be cool to hang out with him.





"ELLE!!!, Did you approve this ad?" Felicia asked as she slammed a copy of a print ad on my desk.





I looked over the ad. It was for the new Red shoe campaign. I was working on it with the advertising agency we hired.





"No, Felicia I haven't approved it yet. I was waiting on Blair to send me the other mock up. Why?" I question staring back up at Felicia.





Felicia was a tall fair women with the thickest natural lips I had ever seen on a white woman. She looked like she was probably a model back in her day. She had sharp features and the most perfect pale blonde hair I had ever seen. She looked like an elegant snow queen. She was one of the partners at the marketing consulting firm I worked at.




"Hmmp, tell Blair never to send garage like this over again. I knew we should have went with Grey," She signed. "By the way, I need you in San Francisco on Wednesday. We have a sales pitch that I need you to present at."




I immediately focused in on Felicia words when I heard San Fran. It was afterall my favorite city.




"Great, I'm there. Can you send me your intenary?" Lately I was getting quite a few opportunities to travel with Felicia and Jeff when they are out selling business. We were a small niche firm that handled buzz marketing campaigns. Its funny, I meet Felicia at a bar three days after I dropped out of law school. She was one of the most elegant women I had ever seen. We both ordered the same cocktail the same way. She was randomly talking about a project she had and I gave her a suggestion. She told me I was a genius and asked if I had ever considered a career in marketing. I shrugged and explained my whole sad law school story. She gave me her card and told me to call her on Monday.





"Will do. Get me Blair new proof asap. We need to get this to the client by eod today," Felicia said making turning away from my desk toward her office.

I nodded and began drafting an email to Blair. It was already 4 and I knew Felicia would want a few more proofs to choose from. She was very picky and I knew whatever Blair sent next would not be to Felicia's liking. As I sent the email to Felicia I caught a glimpse at Mark's card. It was under my mouse pad. I picked it up and considered calling him. I had been wanting to call him since I saw him at MJQ but I wasnt sure. It wasnt that he was a white boy. I had dated white guys before. I guess it was just the whole fact that his homeboy had seen me naked that bothered me. I wasnt sure he would take me seriously.

But my mind wondered to the possibility of going out with Mark. So I decided to email him.

Hey Mark. Its Elle. Just thinking about taking you up on you offer to shoot me. How much does the gig pay? - Elle

I think that was simple, sexy and flirtatious enough.

chapter 4: Jordan

"My mother named me Jordan because she use to date him in college," I joked.
"No way, " he laughed.
"I'm joking silly," I said grabbing his muscular arm.
He laughed harder.
"You are a very clever girl Ms. Jordan Campbell," he remarked taking a gulp of his cognac.
We were finishing after dinner cocktails at Mortons. Chuck was a huge beef eater. He was 46, married with two bratty teenagers, and loaded with tons of real estate money. I entertained Chuck a few times during the month. Chuck was one of those men that you didn't want to get attached too. He was dawg plan and simple. He thought the fact that he had money entailed him to all the young ass he could get. I had meet Chuck on a flight to the NY. I was on my way to join one of my beaus in New York for a shopping and theater trip. Anyway, Chuck talked my ear off about investing and real estate. I listened and laughed at all his corny jokes. We exchanged number and he blew my cellphone up all week. I finally returned his phone call two weeks later. He was outraged by the fact that I didn't get back to him sooner.
"So what are you going to do with yourself for the rest of the week? Any out of town excursions? or business trips?" I asked enjoying my coffee.
"I would love to take you to Capetown with me next week," he grinned.
"I didn't know you were doing business in South Africa," I flirted.
"Internationally known, local respected." he laughed "Yeah I have a condo development going up down there. Have you ever been, its a beautiful country?"
"Actually, I haven't but I have heard wonderful things about the country." I lied. I always liked to make these kinda men believe everything was a new adventure. They didn't like knowing that my real father was a corporate expariate who had moved his family all over the world before he lost his big time corporate job.
"I would love for you to join me. I will be there for about two weeks." he said grabbing my hand.
I was already booked up for next week so this little trip wasn't doable at all and Chuck was full of shit. I knew that this trip wasn't going to happen and I hated setting myself up for disappointment.
"I would love to but, I have to go to California next week," I politely declined.
"California? I guess it must be important. I'll miss u. What are you doing later tonight? I have a business meeting to run to soon," he grinned looking down at his watch.
Yeah right I thought. You have to get over to another women and then you want to come over and have sex with me.
"How about you give me a call when you return from your trip? I enjoyed dinner. Thank you." I said warmly leaning over to kiss him.
"Your welcome. Enjoy another cocktail on me sweetie and I look forward to seeing you when I get back. Are you sure I can't twist your arm and presuade you into joining me, the following week?"
"I'll think about. Tell your travel agent to get in touch with me and we will see. Have a safe trip!"
With that he rose from the table and put down a knot of cash. He put on his coat, kissed me the forward head, and made his way out of the restaurant. I picked up the wad of hundred dollar bills and placed my american express on the table. Our waiter came over and took my card. I gave her a polite nod and stared off into the restaurant. I was growning tired of my lifestyle everyday. I enjoyed the jet setting and spending other people's money but I hated all the pain and disattachments. My cell phone vibrated inturupting my thoughts.
"Hello," I answered. It was a private number.
"Hey girl. What are you doing?" my cousin's voice chimed into the phone.
"Hey, Elle. I am at Morton's. Do you want to join me for a cocktail?" I asked as the waiter brought me back my card.
"Well, I was hoping you would join Jay & I at the Grape by your place," Elle laughed.
"Why not, I will be there in a few." I remarked back as I completed my signature on the receipt.

I hated parking in atlantic station. I could never find a space. Typically, I would walk over because I lived right across the street in one of the townhomes but it was chilly out and I hated walking in the cold. Elle & Jay were sitting in the window making faces at me as I walked up to the Grape a local wine bar.
"Hey girl," Jay sang wrapping his arms around me. He was wearing a pair of brown tinted Lucky jeans and a gray Ralph Lauren crewneck sweater. Jay smelled of Burberry Touch.
Elle grinned up at me and reached her arms up to embrace me. I knew her lazy ass wasn't going to get up from the table.
"What were you up to today?" Elle asked.
"Ummm... just went to dinner with Chuck," I explained. "I went shopping earlier. Cherry Bomb just got a new shipment of shoes."
"I wish I could afford to buy shoes," Elle whined. Elle was my first cousin. Her mom and my mother are sisters. We got really close when my parents got a divorce and we moved to Atlanta in high school. Elle was like a sister to me. I was a year older than Elle but because my birthday was late we were always in the same grade in school.
"You can come over tonight and pick any pair that you want," I smiled.
Elle smiled back. Her long hair was pulled up into a bun and she was wearing a long strand of pearls and a white blouse with puffy sleeves. I could tell that she had probably worked late today. I looked over to Jay who was taking another sip of wine.
"Chuck, I think that guy is creepy. I like the white dude better," Jay said putting his glass down.
I laughed. Jay was off the chain.
"So what nonsense are you two getting into tonight?" I asked picking up the menu to make a wine selection.
"I am going home and going to bed. Jay is going over to his puerto rican lover place." Elle giggled.
"Puerto Rican lover?? Que?" I teased.
Jay throw his hands up and rolled his eyes at Elle who was waiting for the signal to spill the beans on Jay's new love interest.
"Can I tell the story please?" Elle begged
"Can I tell my own story please!!!" Jay grumpled
"Will somebody please hurry up a pour the tea please," I exclaimed. Whenever we had juicy gossip we would say pour the tea.
Jay rolled his eyes and gave me a crazy look.
"Well, I meet this one at brunch last Sunday with my mom. He goes to GA. State an he is a bartender at the Ritz Carlton. Nice body, cute face and he gives one hell of a blow job." Jay explained. "Anyway, he gets off at 10 so I am going to swing through to his place for a few cocktails."
"What kind of cocktails?" Elle teased.
"Grown folks business baby," Jay said slapping my hand in a high five.
I laughed as Elle took another sip of wine.
"So whats up your love life miss thang?" I asked directing my attention to my cousin.
"Its a hot mess as usual," Elle moaned. "I am sick of men. They are all liars, cheaters and assholes."
"No just the losers you date!!!" Jay laughed. "My baby just found out that artist nigga she was kicking with is engaged."
"No!!!! Are you serious?" I exclaimed trying to be extra dramtic for Elle's sake.
"Yeah girl and he had all the nerve to say that he thought he told me that." Elle snapped. "Well I know one thing if he is getting married he has no business trying to kick it with me."
Buzz. Buzz. I could feel my cell phone vibrating in my purse. I receached in my bag to spring my cell phone. I looked down to see a text from my football star Jonathan. He must be in town. I placed my phone on the table and decided not to respond until later.
"Who was that?" Elle asked.
"Jonathan, guess he is in town this week." I responded.
"Interesting... I wish I could land some dude with ends. All I get is broke ass losers." Elle whined.
"Honey you are too picky and you don't like men to think that you need them. Its an art to doing what I do." I laughed.
"Then why dont you share your secret with your girl," Elle laughed.
"Girl, I can't reveal trade secrets. But, I do think its all about confidence and girlfriend you don't have game. You got to handle a man and you got to make him feel that he needs you. You also can't fall in love too quick and most importantly you have to date like a man!!!"
Elle sighed.
"So anyway, I am trying to convince Ms.Elle that she needs to call the fine ass white photographer," Jay interupted.
"Fine ass photographer??? You love struggling artist... dont you girl?" I laughed.
Elle smirked.
"He is Brice homeboy. The one that I told you flirted with me at his opening and then I saw him at MJQ a week ago," Elle retroted.
"Yeah I think I remember you mentioning it," I responded. My cousin was so into broke struggling dudes it was ridiculous. If he wasn't a starving artist he was a broke grad student or a do gooder vegan starting his own non-profit. I shook my head.
"Well, I am considering calling him but i promised myself I was done with dating," Elle moaned placing a slice of cheese on a cracker.
"I keep telling this heifer she needs to get some. I dont know why she doesn't just go ahead and call the white boy," Jay exclaimed. "Anyway, who has time to talk about things as depressing as Elle's love life. I am going to NY next week. Anyone want to join?"
I looked over to Elle. I knew she was dying for a trip to the NY but I wasn't trying to pay her way so I shook my head to decline.
" Yeah, I have to work I guess. Speaking of I need to go home soon and check email," Elle announced.
I smiled at her and Jay and tuned in to the chatter of my surroundings. All I coule think about was what my next move would be. I was 28 and I was getting too old for the lifestyle most people wish they lived.

chapter 3: Elle

"I don't like women that smoke," my lastest date announced as I pulled out a clove cigarette.
I rolled my eyes and continued to light my clove. I need a good temporary high and another red stripe. I had know this guy for less than a week and he was already trying to run my life.
"If the smoke bothers you, I won't be offended if you take a walk," I responded as I inhaled the smoke from my clove.
"I just think its a bad habit and unladylike. You are too cute to be over here puffing away," he said looking down at me as we watched a couple in front of us on the dance floor grinding it up.
"Yeah, well its my lungs right?" I snapped back.
Typically I wasn't ever this fiesty with anyone but this guy was getting on my nerves. If I didn't ride with him here I probably would have ditched him an hour ago. Who invites a girl to a club but doesn't dance and only buys her one drink and expects them to sit around the bar people watching all night. I should have known this one wouldn't work. My newly married line sister introduced Jaden to me at her housewarming party last week. She has been ranting and raving about her husband friend from business school for months now. Anyway, at the party he seemed pretty cool. He just relocated here from Calli. He lives in the Grant park area so he is not to far from me. Anyway, we had been playing phone tag all week when he finally caught me today and asked if I wanted to hang out.

I said cool and he said he wanted to see some ATL nightlife. I asked him what type of crowd and vibe was he into. He told me lowkey but he wanted hear some real hip hop. So I took him to MJQ. Now I will admit that MJQ is very hole in the wall spot. It takes a certain type of person to apperciate it. But where else can you go in Atlanta and listen old Wu Tang Clan songs, watch Japanese kids pop n' lock, and spot local celebrities? MJQ seemed like a pretty interesting peak at what Atlanta's night scence has to offer.

He comes to my loft to pick me up around 9. Who goes out to party that earlier ??? So of course I am not ready. I make him a vodka tonic, seat him politely on my couch, and continue getting dressed. I finally decide on a denim bcbg mini shirt a fitted pale yellow cashmere sweater and some thigh high camel colored laceup boots. I pulled my hair back into a high ponytail and put on my yellow threaded earrings. I thought my outfit was pretty hot. I walk out to my living room and Mr. Jaden gives me this stank look and says
"Tammie didn't tell me you were so into fashion. I didn't get those materialistic vibes from you. Don't you think you outfit is a little too much for just hanging out?"
I look back at him and say, "I thought you from Calli, I am sure those girls can run circles around me. We are going to check out a club right? Did you want to do something more low key?"
He shakes his head and I grab my coat. We get to his car Toyota Camry and he doesn't even bother to open the door for me. Now I am thinking this mofo is rude as hell. In his car he is playing an old Outkast cd. I am bobbing my head and giving him some cool points back for liking Outkast when he snaps at me for singing the words to the song. Okay the rest of the car ride is silent. We end up being the first people in line at MJQ and the club isn't even open yet. When we finally get inside and here I am now standing by the bar bored out of my mind. To make matters worst, my feet are killing me.
"I'm going to the bathroom. Don't get too lonely without me," Jaden announced bringing his eyes back to me and away from the dance floor.
"Cool," I said putting out my clove in the ashtray on the bar.
Jaden walked away and I did another survey of the bar area. My eyes lingered over to a tall familar face. I would recognized those eyes from anywhere. I smiled. He smiled and motioned for me to join him on the otherside of the bar. I shook my head playfully and motioned for him to join me instead. He adhered to my request and made his way to me.
"Hello, beautiful."
"Whats up?" I responded back. It was Mark, Brice's friend from the gallery. He would hang out at MJQ. He looked pretty hot tonight though. He was wearing a black collar shirt, loafers and dark rinse diesel jeans.
"Where is Brice?" he asked
"Not sure, I haven't heard from him in a while." I hadn't heard from his inconsistent ass in three weeks now.
"Too bad. I still want you to model for me," he said looking me over. "You look really good tonight by the way. Can I buy you a drink?"
"Sure, my date hasn't bothered to notice that I am almost done with this red stripe." I laughed holding my damn near empty bottle.
"Your date. So you are with that guy that was standing here earlier. He looks like fun." Mark said sarcatically with a smirk on his face.
"Cute, who are you here with?" I smiled. I guess it was clear that I was not having a good time with Jayden.
"How about we leave here and I take you to a better spot?" he said grabbing my hand.
"No, I can't leave my date." I laughed back.
Mark gave me a smiled and licked his lips.
"You must not be into white guys?" he asked leaning back on the bar.
"I don't discriminate but its a little rude to leave one guy to hang out with another." I said back. Where the hell was Jayden anyway? It did not take that long to go to the bathroom.
"Okay, Ms. Elle. How about we meet up later after your date then?" he said motioning the bartender over.
"Maybe another time Mark," I flirted.
"What can I get you sweetie?" the short blonde bartender asked.
"The lady wants another red stripe, I want a vodka tonic and her date would like whateever he was drinking before," Mark ordered and then directed his attention back to me. "We should get together soon then. I will leave you to your date and drink."
The bartender walked up and sat my red stripe and Jayden's drink beside me. She returned a few seconds later with Mark's drink. Mark lifted his drink to mine and said cheers. Just as our drinks meet Jayden walked up looking crazy.
"Hello, I'm Mark," Mark said introducing hisself to Jayden.
Jayden looked Mark over and then looked at me. I shrugged not knowing what to say or do.
"I am one of Elle's friends. I saw her standing here and so I just wanted to say hello," Mark said taking another sip of his drink.
"Nice to meet you man, is that for me?" Jayden asked noticing the full drink beside my red stripe bottle.
"Yeah, well it was great seeing you Mark," I said directing my attention back to him.
"Likewise Elle, I will make sure to stay in touch." Mark nodded at Jayden and walked off.

Saturdays were always slow for me. I got home from my date with Jayden around one. I told him that I had a headache to leave the club. I couldn't take another moment of boredom plus I found myself watching Mark bounce around with a few of his friends on the opposite side of the bar at little too much. I could tell that Jayden was getting annoyed by my occasional glances in Mark's direction so I figured I would go ahead and throw the towel in. Jayden tried to go in for the kiss but I sarcastically reminded him that he hated women that smoked and I leaped out of his car into the night air.
I wanted to dial Brice's number one more time before I entertained the thought of possibly going out with this guy Mark. It wasn't that I didn't do white guys but I had a rule against hooking up with friends. I liked Brice prior to him ignoring my phone calls. He was pretty hot but Mark was kinda hot too. So I gave in and let my fingers do the talking but I made sure to dial *67 first.
"Hello," a deep sleeply voice answered.
"Hey Brice, how are you?" I asked. I got you now mofo!!!
"What's up, who is this?" he asked. I could tell I had awakened him.
"Damn, you already forgot me. This is Elle. Long time no hear," I asked.
"Oh, Elle. Hey whats up girl? Yeah, I have been meaning to call you I have been out of town. Whats going on with you?"
"Ummm... nothing much. I have been trying to get in touch with you for the past month. Where did you go?"
"Yeah, I saw that you called I have been so focused on this piece that I am doing for my opening in San Fran that I havn't had time to call you or anyone."
"Oh, when is your openning?"
"In a few months. This is the final piece to the collection. Yeah, plus my old lady came back from Berlin two days ago so I 've been caught up. But we need to hook up soon. I enjoyed that thing we did a few weeks ago in my studio. Your cocoa skin looked good in midnight blue paint," he laughed.
I could tell he was grinning ear to ear. My thoughts drifted back to that night. I couldn't believe that I let Brice paint my body. We didn't have sex but he did get very familar with me. Wait a minute... did I just hear him say old lady? Was he referring to a girl or his mom!!!!
"Did you just say your old lady? What was your mom doing in Berlin?"
"Ummm... not my mom, meant my girl. She been gone for a year touring over there,"
Silence.
"You have a girlfriend?" I finally asked.
"Its complicated, we have an open kinda thing going on. I see who I want to see, she sees who she wants to see. I thought we talked about this?"
"We had no such conversation. I didn't realize you had a girlfriend."
"Actually, we're engaged."
At this point my face was burning. I wanted to cry my eyes out. I almost had sex with this dude and he is engaged. I felt so stupid. No wonder he blew me off his finacee was back in town.
"You know what Brice, I need to hang up now. Have a nice life!!!"
I throw my cell phone down and buried my head in my lap. I couldn't believe this dude was engaged and still trying to kick it with me. I wanted to scream. Men defenitely aren't shit!!!!! I looked over to my cell phone to see Brice's number pop up on my caller id. Did he really think I was going to pick up my phone after he told he that crap? I rolled my eyes, picked myself up from the couch and made my way to the kitchen. I was still in my pajamas and it was already noon. I surveyed my cabinents for something quick to eat but then decided on ordering pizza from nancy's.
I couldn't believe that once again some guy played me. I am a smart, pretty girl. Why am I 27, single and living in my gay best friend's loft? I haven't had a decent relationship since undergrad. Its been guy, after guy, after guy... I need a break from dating.

Chapter 2: Bobbie

"I thought I told yo ass to get the fuck out of my house," I yelled as I flung the remote at Ramon's head.
"Bobbie, if your crazy ass doesn't calm down, I'm gonnna... I'm gonna, well shit I don't know but you won't like it," Ramon whined back as he dodged the remote.
I smacked my teeth and folded my arms across my body. Ramon had pissed me off for the last time. He was always trying to watch sports on my television that I pay the bill on. I couldn't believe this mofo had the nerve to walk up and change my television. Plus he had been staying with me for the past month and he was working my nerves.
Ramon and I had been dating for about a year and a half now. I meet him when I first moved to Atlanta from DC. I had just graduated from law school and I relocated because I got an offer from a firm here in Atlanta. I was out hanging out with one of my home girls Elle (whom I meet my first year of law school) at a club in Buckhead when I noticed Ramon. I have always had a thing for pretty boys with light eyes. Ramon was pretty as hell. He walked up to me and asked if he could buy me a drink.
"I said hell yeah! I want a bud light,"
He laughed his ass off.
"Are you fo' real?" he asked.
"Hell yeah, I want a motherfuckin' bud light," I repeated.
"Bud light for the lady," Ramon said to the bartender. "Whats your name sexy?"
"Bobbie," I said back.
"I'm Ramon," he smirked moving in closer to me.
"That bitch is taking forever with my drink," I retorted as I watched the bartender mix someone else's drink.
"Damn, girl you are off the chain. Where are you from?" he asked.
"MIA baby," I proudly answered.
"I'm from LA," he volunteered.
"So are you going to ask me for my number or keep chatting about some bullshit," I proclaimed as I grabbed my beer that the bartender finally brought back.
"Damn, girl! I like the way you just handled me," he responded.
And I have been handling him ever since. Ramon is a young dude. I'm 26 and he is barely 22. Matter fact he is still in undergrad at Georgia State. He is cool sometimes but he doesn't have no common sense and he is always gettin' into shit. He is staying with me now because his dumbass got kicked out of his spot because he took his rent money and promoted a party that ended up putting his dumbass in the hole. I don't mind him staying because I'm 26 and a six figure bitch so I can afford it but he wasn't about to try to run my house while he is here.
"I'm sorry baby," Ramon said kissing me on the check as he watched me pout.
"Niggah, get out of my face," I retorted back as I pushed him away.
"Girl, why do you act sooo damn hard all the time," Ramon laughed.
"I told you to get out of my house!!!!" I yelled.
Ramon raised up off my couch and made his way to the kitchen area.
"Where are you going?" I asked twisting my body in his direction.
"Bobbie, I don't have time for your crazy ass mood swings. I'm about to go to Jamal's house. If you want me out, I am gone. I will be back tomorrow to get my stuff," he responded calmly as he grabbed his subway sandwich from the counter.
"Fine, let Jamal take care of your ass. You can drive Jamal's car, eat his motherfuckin' food and while your at it let that niggah suck your dick too!!!" I yelled getting up from the couch and following him into the kitchen.
"Bobbie, this is some bullshit. I knew, I shouldn't have moved up in here with your crazy ass. But its cool, I'm gone. You don't have to worry about me," Ramon muttered as he walked over to grab his gym bag and coat.
"Bye, but if you leave don't come back!!!"
"Baby, I'm good. I can't be around yo craziness. Good night."
Ramon walked past me and headed to the door. He looked back at me and shock his head. I shot him an evil look. With that he calmly opened the garage door and walked out. I stood frozen as I listened to his car crank up. Then I smacked my teeth and returned to the couch. Shit I worked too damn hard to let that niggah ruin my saturday night. I had been working crazy hours for the past three weeks. Fuck Ramon.

The sunday morning, I woke up on my couch to my cell phone buzzing next to me.
"Hello," I answered throwing on my professional tone.
"Hey girl," Elle sang into my ear. "What are you up to?"
"Shit, enjoying my weekend. Trying not to let that dumbass niggah Ramon ruin it," I answered.
"I told you not to let him move in with you," Elle lectured. "I was calling to see if you wanted some company. I am on pins and needles over here."
"Why are you on pins and needles?" I asked. I knew she wanted me to inquire.
"I told you about that guy, I'm talking to. Anyway, I haven't heard from him in a week and I need to keep myself busy so I won't call him anymore. Yesterday I wen shopping with Jordan. Today I want to spend sometime with you."
"I so you trying to use me heifer!!!" I laughed.
"Whatever, can I come over or what?" Elle responded.
"Yeah, girl bring you little behind down here to the SWATS honey!!!" I said as I hung up.
Elle was one of my favorite people. When I meet her, she was crying after class when one of our legal professor embarassed the hell out of her. She was like a little fragile doll. She spent the whole year complaining until second semster of our second year when she told me she was coming back home to Atlanta. Most people drop out of law school their first semester. Not Elle, her crazy ass left when she only had one more year left. Anyway, Elle was one of the only black girls at Georgetown that I actually liked so when she left I buckled down really hard. I graduated top of my class. Pretty big accomplishment for a girl from the projects in Miami. I was one of those people that always excelled. I had never made a B in my life. I was the first person in my family to go to college and now I was chillin' at 26 with a phat house, my first car and a six figure salary.
Elle arrived to my house about an hour later. I came to door to see Elle standing at my doorstep with Jay trailing behind her. Elle was about 5'3, with coco brown skin and hair to her ass. She was wearing a winter white coat and black pant stretch pants, bright pink sneakers and her hair was pulled back into a long braided ponytail.
"Hey girl, I brought Jay and he brought Panera," She smiled as she entered my house from the cold.
"Hey Bobbie!!!" Jay sang as he entered after Elle carrying two large bags.
I gave Elle and Jay a hug and urshered them in from the cold air in the foyer area.
"Is Ramon here?" Jay asked as he walked toward the kitchen to put the bags down.
"Hell no I put that bitch out last night!!!" I announced as I followed them into the kitchen.
"Bobbie you are one crazy mofo," Jay laughed. "What did his ass do now?"
"You didn't tell me you put Ramon out," Elle chimmed in as she searched the bag for her food.
"Biatch, you didn't ask you was busy talking about you as usual." I teased.
Elle rolled her eyess.
"Tell the story heifer," Elle responded plopping her butt up on my bar stool at the kitchen counter.
I looked over to Jay. Jay was busy trying to fix his tea. I kinda giggled to myself. Jay was a tall light bright guy skinny guy. I never pictured myself hanging out with such a trendy gay dude but Jay had been more than welcoming when I meet him. I started in on the story. I told them about how I picked a fight with Ramon over the tv and how he said he was going to move out and go to his homeboy house until he gets on his feet.
"Why are you always picking fights with that man?" Jay laughed. "Your crazy ass shouldn't be fucking with that immature ass niggah anyway. How old is he like 19?"
"You know Ramon is 20, why you acting Jay!!!" Elle teased.
"Fuck ya'll, you know my baby is 22. Plus I'm younger than ya'll mofos anyway," I responded defending myself.
"Girl please, you are only a year younger than my ass!" Elle joked pushing my arm.
"So he is your baby now," Jay teased. "I need you to meet some men your age and on your level. Girl you are too cute and smart for immaturity. Especially considering the fact that you can't handle him being younger than you!!!"
"What?? I have been handling it for a year and a half!" I said finishing my bagel.
"Bobbie, Jay is just saying you always cussing him out for acting his age. He is still in undergrad, you are a young professional. You make a lot of money, have gone to the best schools in the country and you are very mature even for your age. Ramon isn't you sweetie. He likes to party and do his music thing. When you were in undergrad you studied 24/7. Ramon is not you and you need to stop trying belittle that man because he isn't you."
"Preach it girl!!!" Jay laughed as he clapped his hands dangling his gold tiffany toggle bracelet.
"Well he is out now!!" I retorted back rolling my neck.
"By the way, Bobbie. Girl I am lovin' your cut," Jay said as he ran his fingers through my short do.
"You know betta than to touch a black woman's hair boi," I said backing away from Jay.
Jay laughed.
"Whats up with you and the artist, Elle" I asked. I knew she was dying for me to ask.
Elle was one of those people loved to talk about her. True enough I liked to talk about me too but that little girl could run her mouth. Her and her sidekick Jay would gossip backward and forward all day with you.
"Nothing, I thought we were vibing but now he is not returning my calls," Elle answered.
"Thats because this heifer scared him off too. You know how she does," Jay lashed.
I shook my head. Elle and Jay were like the black Will & Grace. They hung tight, finished each other sentences and would probably end up spending the rest of there lives together. It was a shame too because Elle was a beautiful girl and Jay was fine ass he wanted to be too. Jay wasn't even really flame. He acted like a really fashionable straight guy. If I didn't know any better I would think he was straight. He was from Atlanta like Elle and they had known each other forever. Jay was short for Jarod. He hated Jarod and had gone by Jay all his life. His parents were very wealthy. His dad was a real estate mogul and his mom was doctor. Jay called is self being a real estate agent/ investor. I wasn't sure if he really ever sold anything but he did do a good job with the investing thing. Hell he owned Elle's loft.
"I don't understand why I'm always getting dumped," Elle said sadly.
I didn't understand why she always got dumped my damn self. Typically, Elle was a push over but with dudes she kinda acted like she had some sense. We spent the rest of the day watching lifetime movies and bitching about men until Jay got a phone call from some guy to go out tonight and told Elle and I, he had to bounce. I offered to take Elle home later if she wanted but she said she need to cook and get prepared for work tomorrow. I shook my head a walked them out.

The next day I didn't get home until eight that night. Ramon hadn't came by on sunday to pick up his stuff and I hadn't heard from him either. I thought about calling him to check on him but I wasn't going to bitch up. I warmed up some leftovers from sunday and decided to take a long bath. Just as I stepped in the bath I heard my door chime.
"Bobbie," I heard Ramon call from downstairs. "Are you here?"
I rolled my eyes and continued to soak in my garden tub. I was had my candles going, a glass of wine and some mellow music in the background humming. I was going to enjoy my bath.
"Bobbie" I heard him call.
His call was a lot closer now. I figured he was probably in my room. I closed my eyes and continued to ignore him. Then he knocked on the bathroom door.
"Baby, are you in there?" he called.
Of course I'm in here fool. Go AWAY!
Then Ramon turned the door knub and stumbled into my bathroom. He was wearing some grey sweat pants and a black Sean Jean long sleeve t-shirt. I could tell that he had just gotten a fresh cut because his curly hair was cut lower than on Saturday. His green eyes meet mine as he stared at my naked body. Ramon flashed me a sexy smile and I remained unchanged trying to act hard but I am sure he noticed my nipples instantly get hard as I eyes meet.
"I was about to get my stuff but, I am not so sure you want me to leave," he said standing above me. "Was all this for me?"
"Hell no," I responded back. "It's for me."
"Can I join you?" he said pulling off his shirt to realize his amazing body.
"Hell no, I thought you was leaving?"
"Girl stop frontin' you know you missed me," he said continuing to strip.
"If you get in this tub, I'll scream," I threatened still trying to play hard.
"Don't you want me to make you scream?" he teased.
He stepped into the tub and I moved over to the other side of the tub. He grabbed me and pulled me toward him. I gave in. I wanted him to do it anyway and he knew what I wanted it too. He bent down and gave me a hard passionate kiss and I put my arms around his head and returned the love. He swifted his body to force me on top of him to thrust hisself inside of me. I yielded to his whim and allowed him inside. I began riding him and kissing him everywhere I could reach. We made love all over my bathroom and clasped on my bed 45 miutes later.
I went to bed that night in Ramon's arms, loving my baby all over again.

Chapter 1: Elle

We meet on Thursday at Art Center train station. I work by Lenox Mall and live in midtown so I typically take Marta to work. Anyway, I had just slipped on a pair of pumas for my two mile walk down to my apartment when our eyes meet. He was a chocolate brown cutie with a killer smile. He was carrying a large canvas bag and a toffee colored briefcase. The subway train doors opened and I got off at my stop and he trailed behind me.

"Excuse me miss," he shouted as I made my way ahead of him.

I spun around to greet him and now I am preparing for our first date. He is an artist so he invited me to tag along with him at one of his friend's openings at a local gallery. I don't know what it is about me but I love the artsy type. My last boyfriend was a broke ass musician that couldn't keep his dick in his pants. Hopefully, Brice would be different. I have never been the girly type that spent forever getting dressed. I slipped on a lavender v-neck cashmere sweater, a bcbg chocolate brown skirt and a pair of sassy chocolate brown pumps. Mr. Brice finally arrived at seven.

"You look beautiful," he said as he gave me a warm hug.

"Thanks," I replied back smiling.

Brice looked damn good too. He was wearing a caramel brown velvet suit jacket, a white Ralph Lauren button up, dark rinse jeans and caramel colored loafers. He smelled so good as I hugged him I wasn't so sure I still wanted to go out anymore.

"Are you into visual art?" He asked as we walked out of my building into the cold air outside.

"I'm not an expert but I did take an art apperciation class in college," I laughed.

He smiled.

Okay, I thought it was funny. I guess he didn't.

"Where is your car parked?" I asked. I told him to park on the street considering how scare parking is down here.

"Up the street. Hey I really like your building? Do you own your spot?" He asked.

"Nope, I actually rent this place from a friend. I have a loft unit," I replied back. Most people just assumed I owned my place because I lived in one of those buildings that screams privately owned biatch!!!!

"My car is right here," he said as we walked up on a lime green VW beetle. I wanted to laugh at this dude. He is 6'3 driving a bitch car like this. And then this guy had the nerve to have it in lime green. He unlocked the car and I hopped in.

"This gallery is down off Peoples Street. I'm glad you came with me. I get cool points when I bring a pretty lady with me to these things." He said as hell gave me a sexy smirk.

Damn did he look good when he smiled. That smile just made up for this bitch car. After riding up and down the street we finally found a spot on the street. We walked up two blocks to a older refuburished building. As we walked through the door he grabbed my hand and led me to a receptionist area with two tall blonde girls in black stood.

"Hey Brice," one girl retorted as we approached.

"Abby, how are you?" he responded back. "Whats up Sam?"

The other girl smiled and winked at me.

"Ladies, this is my date Elle. Isn't she beautiful?" he said giving me a kiss on the cheek.

"Well, Mark is in the blue room. You know where to go. It was great seein' you baby," Abby said turning her attention to an older white guy in all black as he entered the gallery.

"Sam, thinks your hot," he whispered in my ear as we walked into a room lite dimly in blue, crowded with people.

I blushed but I wasn't sure if he was being funny or trying to turn me out.

Surprisingly, it was different than I expected. I guess I watch too much Sex in the City because I expected something way more sexy. His friend was a photographer not a painter and his collection consisted of ten photographs of black women from Honduras. The collection was entitled "Las Negras". Beside each photograph there was a short story about each woman. Brice guided me through the exhibit attempting to explain each photograph until we were interrupted by a tall skinny white guy with tattered jeans and a grey thermal shirt. He had short sandy blonde hair and icy sea green eyes.

"Whats up man," the guy said as he reached out to Brice to dap him up.

"I'm lovin' the set up guy! Congrats man," Brice responded after they finished the homeboy greeting.

"Thanks man, just happy to be here in the A dude. Who is your lady friend?" he said turning his attention to me. "This is my new lady friend Elle. Elle, this is my man Mark. This is his exhibit,"

Brice smiled. I looked over Mark again. I couldn't believe this kid didn't even bother to dress up for his own opening. He was a very attractive guy though. Maybe he thought it didn't matter.

"Mark is from Atlanta. We went to NYU together," Brice explained. "I lived with this guy for two years in New York."

"Well, its nice to meet you Mark. I'm from Atlanta too and your photography is beautiful," I responded placing my hand in front of him.

"Nice to meet you Elle. She's pretty, Brice. What the hell does she see in you?" he joked as he grabbed my hand and held it.

Is this guy flirting with me?

"Yeah, I told her I only bring the pretty ones around my friends," he joked putting his arm around my waist. Mark let go of my hand but gave me a sly grin and then brought his attention back to Brice. "So whats up with you man? I heard you are teaching an art class down at the art school these days. When are you going back to finish your PHd?" he asked. Damn, I was impressed I had no idea Brice was working on his PHd or anything other than his artwork for that matter. "Not sure, I am enjoying doing this thing at the art school and working on a few pieces. I might have some people interested in doing some stuff with me at this gallery in San Fran. Plus I found a new reason to stay in Atlanta for a little while," he said squeezing me tighter. "Thats whats up my friend. Hey, I'm glad you came. I got an opportunity I want to discuss with you a little later. How about we talk soon man?" Mark requested as he let his eyes linger back over to me. "Sounds good my man," Brice responded back. "You know how to find me." "Elle, you should let me shot you sometime," Mark said unexpectedly. "Excuse me?" I questioned. I was sure what he meant and I wasn't sure if I liked the way this guy was flirting with me in front of Brice. He laughed. "I meant, you should let me take a few pictures, you know shots...," he responded back. "Here let me give you my card. I would love to have you do some work with me." With that he walked off to mingle with more people and left Brice and I to his photography.
sunday a week later...

Brice called at noon saying he would be in my area and he wanted to do brunch at the Flying Biscuit. I told him okay, I'll meet him. Typically, I walk everywhere in a four mile vinicity but I had on heels so I decided to actually drive. Flying Biscuit, was off 10th street in the gay district of midtown a few blocks away from my place. I had walked up there a few times to hang out with my friend Jay who lived around the corner.

I got to Flying Biscuit a little before Brice so I got a table by the window and people watched.

"Elle Simone Powell, girl don't act like you didn't see me sitting down up in here," I heard from behind. I looked around to see Jay's friend Ms. LouisV.

"Hey girl," I said giving Ms.LouisV a hug.

Ms. LouisV was the alias of a 5'4, fair skin guy with freckles that rocked the hell out Louis Vuitton. His real name was Lewis and he was one of the craziest guys I knew.

"I'm lovin' those jeans girl. What are those sevens? You know I'm going to have to go shopping in your closet tomorrow," he laughed patting me on my booty.

"Honey, you know you are way more petite than I. What are you like a 2 or 4? I doubt I have anything you can get into."

"Chile, please you act like you aren't fabolus yourself. Are you meeting Ms. Jay up in here this morning? That bitch told me he was going to church." Ms. LouisV said looking around for Jay.

Ms. LouisV was fly as ever. He was wearing a navy blue fitted button down shirt with a wide collar popped up, a pair of Rock and Republic jeans, a pair of yellow snake skin Kenneth Cole loafers, and a Gucci messenger bag.

"Nope, honey I have a date and I know you don't believe Jay's crazy ass went to church. We went to a party at Jordan's place. Jay was trashed he should be suffering from a hangover with his head in a toilet," I laughed.

"Damn, Jordan had a party and didn't invite moi. I hate that bitch. You are way cuter than that damn groupie bitch Elle. We need to get you one of those guys she fucks with." Ms.LouisV said rolling his eyes. "Shit, I can pull one of those homothugs she fucks with too. Where is your date ms.thang? and why is he meeting you here?"

"He should be on the way. I'm a little early."

"Who is this one? Girl you know you go through men like me chile!!!"

I laughed. Ms.LouisV did have a point. I couldn't keep a man and neither could he. Just as I was about to respond in walked Brice.

"Thats him now," I responded signally Brice to my table.

"Yummy," Ms. LouisV uttered under his breath.

"Good Afternoon sweetie," he said as he bent down to give me a kiss on the cheek.
"Hey, man how are you?" he said turning his attention to Ms. LouisV who was all in his seat.

"Hola homie, I'm Lewis but my friends call me LouisV. Relax honey, Ms. ESP is one of my dearest friends and fans," Ms. LouisV replied not bothering to rise from Brice's seat.

"Nice to meet you. ESP??" he said looking at me.

"My intials, Elle Simone Powell. Ms. LouisV coined the nickname," I said smiling at LouisV.

"Well since you are a dear friend of Ms.ESP, you should join us and tell me more about this lady," Brice remarked as he looked around for another chair to pull up.

"I would love to join you kids. Its not like I have any thang to do this afternoon anyway," Ms.LouisV exclaimed. "Let me go get my drank."

"You look nice today," I said looking over Brice. He was wearing a tan Ralph Lauren crew sweater and wool brown slacks.

"Thanks, as always you look gorgeous," he responded back flashing me his perfect white teeth.

"Elle, chile did I tell you about that new spot Malcolm and I found last friday," Ms.LouisV interupted holding his drink.

"Nope, but Jay told me about it. He said they had a really good happy hour." I responded looking over to Ms. LouisV.

"Girl you and your man should go. Whats your name sweetie? Elle is sooo damn rude," Ms.LouisV remarked rolling his eyes.

"Brice Key," Brice spoke up directing his attention to Ms. LouisV.

"I like that name honey and you look just like Mr. Brice from Groove Theory too. What do you do? You look like a corporate brother." Louis V asked.

"I'm an artist and I teach a few art classes at the Art Institute," Brice explained.

"Umphh, you don't look broke. Damn your an artist? What type of art do you do?" Ms.LouisV remarked slyly.

I want to interupt because I was a little embrassed by Ms.LouisV remark but I had no clue of what type of art. I had never seen any of Brice's work. Hell I had only know him for about two weeks now.

"Well, I am a scupltor." Brice explained.

"What have you done?? Do you do those ugly little figurines? My momma loves them. I hate them. That heifer got those damn things all over the house."

Brice and I laughed.

"Na'll man I don't do those figurines that you are talking about. I done a few cool thing but nothing big here. I am actually working on a few pieces for an exhibit that will be featuring my work in San Francisco," Brice explained. "Enough about me. Tell me everything about Elle that she doesn't want me to know."

"How about we order first and then I tell you about this chile. It won't take long Elle is sooo southern belle and boring as hell," Ms. LouisV said signaling someone to take our order.

Over brunch Ms. LouisV ran his mouth about how he meet me when he was in undergrad at Morehouse. I was good friends with his roommate Jay who had not figured out he was gay yet. He talked about how I use to hang out with them when I came home for breaks and how him and Jay went to DC to move me back to Atlanta when I dropped out of Georgetown law school. Brice laughed at all of Ms. LouisV's crazy stories about me.

After brunch Brice and I parted with Ms.LouisV and headed to Piedmont Park to walk brunch off.

“That dude is crazy,” Brice laughed. “Being a member of the art community I know so many gay guys. But LouisV is a trip. I can’t believe he calls hisself that.”

“I know, he is a nut. You have to meet the rest the crew,” I remarked looking up at him.

I couldn’t believe I was walking around Piedmount Park in the middle of January. It was cold as hell outside.

“Who is the rest of the crew? And when do I get to meet them?” Brice laughed.

“Well, there is Jay. You heard all about him at brunch he is my best friend. Then there is Jordan my gold diggin cousin who went to UCLA. She is crazy. There is Leah my homegirl from undergrad. She is off the chain. Meisha the one that went to NYU that I told you about and the crew wouldn’t be official without the queen of crunk Bobbie aka I’ll beat that biatch with a bottle. I meet her in undergrad too.”

“Your friends sound comical,”

“They are and crazy ass hell too.”

I smiled inside. I was really enjoying Brice.

Intro to Elle

My twenties have been so crazy that I decided to write a book based on my life and my friends. My the main character in my book is a twenty-something year old named Elle living in Atlanta, Georgia. Here goes...