Chapter thirty-four

Becca

It was Thursday: the dullest day I've ever had to endure. The house was silent, with a hint of mystery and enigma about it, as it was only me and Kieran inside. For once he was alone in his room and not accompanied by a gonorrhoea infested hoe, which resorted to him being as quiet as a mouse.

I was relaxed, despite the bored state I was in. At least I had Natalie to talk to. This bitches voice was loud through the phone, was almost as if she was right beside me. Only problem was she was trying her absolute hardest to persuade me to do something for my birthday, which was literally 5 days away. I wasn't fazed to be honest. My birthday was the thing I had the least interest in. I lay there on my bed, flat on my stomach as I plucked at the stitching of my pillow, rolling my eyes at the bullshit Natalie was talking, providing me with different ideas about my birthday.

Me: "I'm not bothered Nat, seriously."

Natalie: "But why?"

Me: "No point." I heard her groan in annoyance, and then she paused.

Natalie: "Wait, what's that in the background?"

Me: "Radio," I answered. I turned to view the medium-sized Sony-CMT stereo that rested on top of my drawers. The speakers thumped excessively as music flooded from its system. I turned back to my pillow, lightly punching it, imagining Shanay's face there instead.

Natalie: "Oh."

It's been a few weeks since that incident with Tyreece, and since then people have been attempting to inspire me to do something extravagant for my birthday. I've already shot down such ideas from Brooklyn, Jessica, Dad, Shubdi, Grace, Chris and Gavin. Now Natalie thought it would be appropriate to give it a try. I was about to prove her wrong.

Natalie: "Rebecca...think about something big for the big day, you never know, you actually might enjoy yourself."

Me: "There's no point. Every birthday just reminds me that I'm nearing my death anyway." She fell silent.

Nat: "That's one way to look at it," she said reluctantly after a brief pause. I grunted and she continued. "Another way to look at it is celebrating another year of your life! This is your 18th in a few days, that's like a milestone. At least do something minor, something you wouldn't forget, then you don’t have to do anything live until your 21st." My eyes rolled at the suggestion.

Me: "You're not understanding," I muttered.

Natalie: "I just want you to have a good 18th. You deserve happiness right now." My face straightened at that.

Me: "Who said I wasn't happy?"

Natalie: "I know you're not completely happy, I don't have to say why either." I furrowed my brow in disappointment.

Me: "This has nothing to do with him."

Natalie: "It does. We both know it."

Me: "Are you tryna piss me off?" I asked.

Natalie: "We all know you're not the same without him here Becca. The sooner you accept it, the sooner you can move on and just enjoy life."

Me: "I am enjoying life. Tyreece has been a good friend." Not to mention Shubdi, but lately he's been too preoccupied with his new bitch girlfriend.

It was evident that she was trying to change him; make him something he's not. Can you believe the bastard called me the other day telling me I need to start searching for Universities? This is SHUBDI; he never once cared about education and the importance of it. That's how you know this harlot has created a monster. Natalie sighed deeply.

Natalie: "What am I gonna do with you?" I chuckled lightly and turned to the clock.

Me: "Call me back later." She agreed and I locked off.

I groaned inwardly and flipped onto my back to view the ceiling in despair. The tune K-CI & JOJO — ‘Crazy’ then began to play through the pulsing speakers in a gentle flow. My heart throbbed and the aching commenced as the images of whatshisface singing this exact same tune came back to me. The day of his birthday, when he showed me his brand new car...

He then turned on the radio, went into the glove compartment full of CD's, and picked out one. 

"Listen to this," he said quietly. He inserted the CD and KCI & JOJO - Crazy began to play. He turned the dial to boost the volume and looked at me. 

Why? 

He began clicking his fingers and singing along to it. "Baby I apologise for all the things I done, that I done!" He grabbed onto my hand and sang to me. "See I know I've been a fool, for far tooo loonnnggg!" He was passionate and getting into the song. I laughed. "Baby you had to go and run away, just come back to papa, please baby baby won't you stayyy!" I started creasing. He was so gay! He smirked...

I frowned slightly as the words began to captivate me.

I'm going crazy, crazy, (crazy, crazy) when I can't touch you,

Crazy, crazy (I'm going crazy) when I can't hold you,

Crazy, crazy, (I'm going crazy) when I can't see you again.

(Said I'm going crazy)

I've finally realized, that you are my true love,

And I had a lot of time to think, and you're all I seem to keep thinking,

To keep thinkin of, yeahhh.

And now I know I need you each and every day,

I can't live without you, so don't run away,

Baby you say that you love me, so why'd you leave me, why—

I quickly sat up and dashed my pillow forcedly at the stereo, causing it to fall off the side and crash to the ground with a clamorous thud. I breathed heavily and stared at the ceiling, just like old routine. My chest rose and fell from the excessive breathing and a heavy heart. I felt my eyes prickling as tears threatened to splash over my eye-lids.

Don't cry. Just do not cry...

The door swung open swiftly, rebounding off the wall as it did so. Kieran stood there watching me, but his eyes were soon diverted onto the demolished stereo on the floor.

"What happened?" he asked.

"Nothing," I replied blankly.

"Why would you mash up the stereo like that?" I ignored him completely, trying to subside the slight rage I was feeling as to why he would just burst in my room without permission. "Why are you crying?"

"I'm not," I muttered through gritted teeth. Just then the second tear left my eye and cascaded my cheek, creating a river of discomfort and pain on my face.

"What's wrong?"

"I'd appreciate it if you just fucked off right now. I'm not in the mood," I warned as calmly as possible.

He sighed and left the room, shutting the door gently behind him. I was actually sick of this; moping around about him and feeling depressed because he wasn't near. Everyday I'd have to explain to another prick that he doesn't cross my mind once, and I seem very convincing. Deep down he was the only person I ever thought about; every morning I woke up, and every night when I fell asleep. Despite this, I didn't want it that way. I knew I was simply a teenager in denial. I wished there was any other option to choose, so I can just forget about him—just forget about his existence.

It's been long enough now, I’ve matured into something that I wasn't a few months ago. I've learned of heartache and depression in the space of a month, I have literally evolved for the better and only in a short period of time as well. It was about time I moved on from him, for good. And I will be...starting tomorrow.

—???—

I searched through her Facebook, scoping a couple of pictures she was tagged in and scowled at the screen. The image of her and Kayden was displayed, I felt physically sick to my stomach. She was sat on his lap with the biggest grin on her face as he remained on the chair, with his cap just about covering his eyes as he gave a crooked smirk at the camera. They both seemed like the perfect pair, a typical cheerful couple. I felt completely neglected by him, by everyone—all due to her existence.

I banged my fists onto the computer desk in frustration and sighed deeply. I just wanted her taken care of. I didn't appreciate the fact that she was still alive and well. I had stuck to Marik's words; he had said she'll be gone within a month and I just couldn't wait. I was thrilled to hear such news, all I had to do was sit and play the waiting game.

I was sick of being fucked over by everyone, I won't tolerate it anymore. Soon both Kayden and Rebecca will know not to anger the wrong person. After all, every action has its consequences. By now her fate has been sealed. I scrutinised her profile picture, analysing every possible detail that was shown, that just made me grimace even more. I hated the fact that she was so beautiful. Yeah I admit it, she was a stunning sight. No wonder Kayden took such an interest in her, it aggravated me that he would choose her. She would always be his first priority no matter what.

Her lovely copper hair hung in loose ringlets past her shoulders, the small outline of her dark brown eyes concealed by her curly eyelashes. Not to mention her calm matured face and curvaceous body. She was quite slim, with average-sized breasts and a butt that I'd die for. It bothered me, the fact she was the image I desired to have, and she didn't deserve this appearance. She was a selfish bitch, and needed to be dealt with.

I soon scrolled downwards and clicked on her info, containing some simple facts about her. I noticed her birthday was illustrated in bold and took it down. As I wrote down the information my lips formed a delighted grin.

I'll be seeing you soon, Rebecca.

Becca

I dragged the zipper of my jacket higher as the vicious wind began to enthral me. Tyreece wrapped his arm around my shoulder in an attempt to keep me warm, but it wasn't successful. We crossed the road and entered Creams then chose a table.

"We picked the wrong day to come here," Ty said as he stepped aside, allowing Diamond to slide into the arched sofa of the circular table. He sat down after her and I gave him a look.

"A bit of wind doesn't stop me from having ice-cream," I replied. I watched my surroundings and smiled at all the sexy images of ice-creams/sundaes/desserts that were displayed on the wall.

It was a Saturday, the day that I agreed to take Diamond out and give her more of an outlook on London and what it had to offer...which was nothing really. London is shit, but I didn't want her to know that. I had decided to take her to the well-known ice-cream parlour, Creams, and thought it would be wise to drag Tyreece along with us since he had nothing better to do.

"It smells like cookie-dough," she commented as she sniffed the air. I laughed at her wrinkled nose and sat down beside Ty.

"What would you like you awesome child?"

She picked up the menu and began to look at all the different flavours and milkshakes.

"So much to choose from," she muttered to herself. She was beginning to lose her Caribbean accent, which I would miss, but it didn't stop her from being cute.

I turned to Ty who had the menu opened himself, pressing his index finger to the laminated paper as he followed the text and pictures. He looked like a little child trying to decide what sweet to pick. Bless him.

"What are you having?" I questioned.

"Diamond's right, too much to choose from."

"Don't have anything then, doesn't really bother me." I shrugged. I already knew what I was having anyway. Tyreece pinched my neck and I laughed as he sent a playful screw my way.

"Don't get cheeky Becc's." I rolled my eyes and soon they had picked their desserts.

I headed over to the front counter and ordered for the three of us before sitting back at the table. It wasn't packed as much as it usually was. Last time I was here it was RAMMED. I only remember briefly though, used to come here all the time with Dad, Kieran, and Andre. Now the two of them matured and fucked off to do their own activities, and dad was 'too busy working'.

Diamond watched the colourful lights on the ceiling and became fascinated with the slide-show full of various ice-creams. My mind began to wander and soon I had drifted away into my own bubble of thoughts. I wasn't going to fantasize about whatshisface any longer. Today was the day that I'd forget about him. I didn't even care how long it took, but I would definitely succeed. I felt Ty's hand rest on my thigh gently. He gave it a gentle squeeze, causing me to turn to him.

"You okay? You seem troubled."

I shook my head. "I'm fine."

He nodded slowly and soon our desserts came. Diamond licked her lips at the waffles and fresh strawberries that were placed before her. The waitress presented her with a spoon and watched Tyreece closely.

"More coming right up." She flashed him a flirtatious smile before walking off. I raised a brow and watched her as she disappeared round the corner.

"What was that about?" I asked myself more than anyone else. That skinny bitch better watch herself, she should know better than to flirt with customers!

"What?" Ty asked, completely oblivious.

"Nothing," I dismissed.

"This is banging," Diamond stated with a mouthful of waffles in her gob. She dabbed more into the strawberry sauce before stuffing it down her throat. If she wasn't so amazing I would've cussed her about her table manners—she had none!

"Eat with more etiquette Diamond," I informed.

She paused and watched me. "More wah?"

"Table manners," Tyreece intervened.

"Ohhh." Then she ate more slowly, still stuffing the treats into her mouth same way.

I shook my head and Ty laughed. The waitress appeared again, this time with two desserts in her hands. She placed them both in front of us with her eyes focused mainly on Ty. Her bronze skin shone in the colourful light, along with her olive-green eyes and lip-gloss. She smoothed back her straight brunette hair and pouted her lips in a sensual manner. My brow arched once again at this provocative bitch. What exactly was she playing at though?

"Enjoy your dessert," she said directly at him.

He gave a polite smile in return and nodded. "Thanks."

"No problem." Her smile widened and I cleared my throat loudly.

"Yeah thanks. Be gone now," I ordered bluntly.

She scrutinized me harshly and turned on her heel, walking away and swinging her hips in a fucked up exaggerated way. WHO is she to be screwing me like that? Tyreece started laughing as he noticed my expression, clearly amused by the short episode.

"That was out of order."

I shrugged and tucked into my Oreo sundae.

"She’s bright though, did yuh see how she luk pon you? Hmph." Diamond shook her head in disappointment and bit into her strawberry.

"Well Becc's started it," Ty whispered so only I could hear, carrying a smug smile on his wonderful face.

I watched him from the corner of my eye; admiring his strong jawbone and small button nose; identical to mine. His almond shaped eyes and miraculous hazel orbs, short wavy hair and succulent lips. I could take him right there and then, right on this table. I shook my head vigorously to rid of the incorrect thoughts in and sighed.

Soon we were finished and our table was cleared. We stood by the front counter ready to pay for our desserts.

"That'll be £22 altogether please," the man smiled amiably.

I delved into my shoulder bag and retrieved my badman purse bursting with notes. I took out £25 and was about to hand it over but paused when I witnessed Ty paying instead.

My eyes narrowed. "I was meant to pay."

He faced me. "Says who?"

"Me, you dipshit."

"I'd never allow you to pay."

I folded my arms across my chest. "And why's that?" I challenged.

"A female paying for the meal? You know how wrong that is?"

"That's incredibly sexist y’know."

He brought his index finger to his mouth, indicating for me to be quiet. I tutted in annoyance and turned to Diamond as she admired the chocolates that were on show through the glass. She liked her lips and I laughed.

"Gwaanin’ like you haven't just eaten," I commented.

"You know I love my chocolate," she said dreamily, eyeing the milk chocolate cake with chocolate flakes rested on top.

I noticed Ty was chatting to the flirtatious waitress by the table. She was leaning against the chair, flicking her hair behind her ear and laughing loudly at whatever Tyreece said. My eyes narrowed at the sight of them both, engaged in foolish conversation, chatting their bullshit. A feeling of envy burned within me and I couldn't bear to watch them. I held onto Diamonds hand and opened the main door.

"Let's go." We both left the parlour and began heading towards the car that was parked further down the road. I huffed in annoyance and sped up.

"Why you so vex Rebecca?" Diamond asked curiously as we approached Ty's car.

"I'm not," I answered.

She watched my face closely. "You are! You know if you keep your face like that and the wind blow, your face will stay that way and you'd always look vex."

Her remark made me chuckle. I turned to her and ruffled her hair. She was so amazing without even having to try. I attained Ty's keys from my bag and used it to unlock the Golf. We got in and I turned on the radio to hear Usher, Ludacris and Lil John play through the speakers.

Tell me again (Tell me again, my baby),

That we'll be Lovers and Friends.

Tell me again (Make sho' you’re right, ohh, before we leave),

That we'll be Lovers and Friends.

Sometime I wanna be your lover,

Sometime I wanna be your friend,

Sometime I wanna hug ya,

Hold hands, slow-dance while the record spins—

I hastily pressed the switch and turned the radio off as I stared ahead through the windscreen of the car. This wasn’t a coincidence. Almost every day a song played that related to my current situation, and I just couldn't take it anymore. I'll just stop listening to music altogether.

"I was listening to that!" Diamond retorted with a pout.

"It's a rude song, you shouldn't even know what it is," I countered.

She tutted and looked out the window and I chuckled lightly. I inhaled deeply and rested my head back. I had finally calmed down; my chest was no longer tightened which was a good thing. Just seeing Tyreece chatting to that hoe vexed me for some reason, I just had to get away. It was as if my heart couldn't bear to endure any more pain. It was weird, but that was exactly what it felt like.

At that precise moment my pulse quickened. I didn't understand why I felt that way but that was the sheer reality of it. Maybe I was aware that Ty ever committing himself to that bitch was a first class ticket to heartache city. Trust me; it wasn't a pleasant place to be in.

Just then the door opened and he stepped in and closed the door. He turned the keys that I had already left in the ignition and the engine rumbled throughout the car. I peered away from him to look out the window instead, annoyed at myself for being so bothered by something minor. I felt his eyes rest on me.

"Ready to go?"

I nodded, still facing away from him. He revved the engine a few times and finally began to drive. My mind was completely blank as silence filled the car. Ty switched the radio on and changed it to Choice FM. Most of the journey consisted of Diamond singing along to every tune that played. He offered to take her to the park and she willingly complied.

We arrived at BatterseaPark and left the car parked down the road to avoid any tickets. Once we neared the play-area Diamond ran off through the gate and quickly caught a swing. I laughed quietly at her eager self. I used to be just like that; whenever my mum took me to the park it was only the swing that caught my interest. Every other thing could fuck off; you would only catch me on a swing, slide, or monkey bars. Apparently monkey bars would be removed from parks soon due to an incident that occurred a few years ago. A child fell from them and cracked their skull open then died a few days later. Was in the papers—think his name was Shawn something.

Tyreece and I found a space near a tree and sat on the warm grass. I was confused by the change in weather; finally weave won't be blown away by the wind, as it had been replaced by rays of sun. I rested against the tree and breathed deeply, inhaling the fresh air of nature. Been a while since I've been in the park, nothing had changed much though.

Once again Ty's eyes were on me. I ignored his glare and smoothed my hand over the temperate grass.

"She gave me her number," I heard him mutter from beside me.

"Gonna call her?" I replied a little quicker than expected. I saw him withdraw a small piece of paper from the corner of my eye. He held the paper firmly then ripped it into two pieces, then four, and then eight. The pieces fell from his fingers like rain and landed on the grass. The breeze blew the pieces away and I watched him silently. He turned to me with an expressionless face.

"That answer your question?" he asked. I gave a weak smile and proceeded to pick at the grass. "You gonna tell me now?" he continued.

"Tell you what?"

"What's on your mind."

I looked at him. "How do you know anything's on my mind?"

"I've known you all my life, Becc's. Plus you're easy to read."

I shrugged lightly. "Just thinking about life," I answered after a lengthy pause.

"That's not a broad topic at all..." I chuckled at his sarcasm and lightly punched him in the arm. He smiled and we both laughed in unison.

"My love life. You happy?" He cooed at me like I was a little child. These times I'm the female boss, he needs to respect me.

"What about it?"

"It's shit," I stated blankly.

He laughed. "Same." I rested my head on his shoulder as he stroked my arm softly. "Even though I'm still young I wonder if I'm gonna get married, have children, a stable job. All that shit."

"Not me, I just think about the present."

He gave me an odd look. "You've never thought about marriage?"

"Never," I lied. The whole marriage fiasco was only a part of my dreams. They were out of my control, so it was never intentional. It became weird when my wedding dreams turned to whatshisface instead; I remember it like it was yesterday. From there, all my dreams were sexual...still are.

He nodded slowly and appeared deep in thought. "What would you do if you liked someone but you didn't know if they felt the same way?"

"Confront them," I answered casually.

"But what if you didn't want to like this person?"

I turned to him at his suspicious inquiring. "Is this a questionnaire or...?"

He smiled weakly. "Answer."

"Okay. Best thing to do would be to avoid them."

His jaw clenched and he turned away. Suddenly his attitude changed and he refused to make eye contact. I watched him with a questioning glare, wondering what exactly was on his mind. After a few moments of silence he faced me once again.

"I don't wanna have to avoid you," he murmured, his voice a low whisper.

I watched him closely, peering into his eyes to see if there was any glisten of humour, but there was none. He was being deadly serious. I remained frozen and unable to reply as quickly as I had wished to. I wasn't sure how to react. My face remained rigid and my lips firm. He analysed my face and expression.

"You don't have to say anything Becc's-..."

"I like you too," I muttered.

He fell silent and soon his lips broke out into a content smile. Seeing him beam in happiness made me smile all the more, and soon we were both grinning at eachother, and neither of us had the slightest clue why. I laughed, breaking the weird silence.

"Stop being gay," I said.

He chuckled and held me closer. I inhaled his delicious scent and closed my eyes briefly. I liked Tyreece a lot. It's been a while since I had come to the conclusion, I was just afraid to admit it to myself, let alone anyone else. I remained in denial in the hopes that I could wait for whatshisface to return in time. But I couldn't...I can't disguise these feelings anymore. Right now Ty was my main interest, I just couldn't believe it took me a while to realise.

The night we spent together at Chris' house—despite my head being fucked at the time—was amazing. I remembered everything, and I didn't regret it at all. The fact that jealousy can wash over me so quickly, when I saw him with the waitress it was just envy. I didn't want her anywhere near him, and I was troubled by it.

I should just face it. I have feelings for Tyreece.

We snuggled up together by the tree as he traced his fingers across my arm lightly. My mind eventually slowed and I rested my hand on his leg.

"Where do we go from here?" I questioned.

"We can take things slow," he suggested quietly. I hesitated. It wasn't like whatshisface was here; I'm more or less single. I eventually nodded my answer and he smiled weakly. "You don't know how long I've been contemplating this," he said with a chuckle.

"Enlighten me."

"About 4 or 5 months."

My eyes became wide. "Why didn't you tell me sooner?" I asked amazed. Like I could talk.

"Didn't wanna ruin what we had...you're like a sister, it's risky."

"Sometimes it's good to take risks," I stated. He smirked and gently kissed me on the forehead...

It was the day of my birthday. I awoke to a shitty Tuesday morning and over 12 different messages all saying the same thing. I stretched before hopping out of bed and yawned. Claycia slept soundly in the bed beside me; I cooed and grabbed my towel. Flinging it over my shoulder I strolled to the bathroom to prepare for a long day of work.

Since Footlocker got completely demolished during the riot, I decided to take up working in Caffe Nero just down the road serving from behind the counter. I work on Tuesday's and weekends, depending on the week. There was no hope of Footlocker returning, I had to be realistic and find another stable job. I'd never done a job like this before, but it wasn't any different than serving in Footlocker. It's been a few days since I started there, and so far it was going alright—considering I haven't had any arguments with customers. That's a record in my case. I enjoyed it though; feel freer than if I did in Footlocker.

However, working on my birthday should be illegal.

I was prepared for the many 'happy birthdays' I'd receive, and all the excitement everyone else would feel, apart from me. To me this was just like any other day. It had only just begun yet I wanted it to end already. Imagine. Being 18 comes with its benefits, but I couldn't really give a shit, I didn't want any presents either.

An hour later I had left the house; managing to escape the whole household singing happy birthday and Kieran giving me birthday beats. I was close to fly-kicking him into the fridge but I managed to restrain myself. I arrived at work roughly 10 minutes later and instantly went behind the counter. Chanel greeted me with a warm smile and moved aside so I could turn the coffee machine on. She was the only other worker I could actually tolerate; pretty light-skinned girl with nice eyes and a remarkable figure. We were pretty much alike, attitude and all; only difference is she’s in her early twenties. I loved her curly chestnut hair that was always left out, like a big frizzy mess on her head.

"You seem happy," she muttered sarcastically.

I laughed and fitted my apron. "It's my birthday," I said in a monotone voice. She cooed and gave me a light slap on the arm.

"Happy 18th," she chimed merrily.

"There's nothing happy about it," I grunted. "I don't want to draw any attention from people. I wanna have a normal day today."

"Not in the spirit?"

"Fuck no. I can't be bothered. Sometimes I just wanna crawl into a miniature hole and-..."

"Excuse me." We both spun around to see a customer stood there patiently, waiting to be served. I fixed a fake smile upon my lips and smoothed my apron down against my figure.

"Hello, how may I help you?" I greeted in my artificial working voice.

The small white woman rummaged her hand through her ginger curls as she peered at the menu. I heard Chanel giggle from beside me. She walked over to the other side of the counter and began to disinfect the surface before wiping it down. I stared this woman out, growing impatient as she stood there stroking her double chin. I growled inwardly.

"I ain't got all day," I spat coldly. She watched me startled and Chanel burst out into blaring laughter. The woman tutted at my annoyance.

"I'll have hot chocolate with cream," she ordered.

"Was that so hard though?" I kissed my teeth and turned to face the machine. I prepared this woman’s hot-chocolate and noticed Chanel still laughing in the corner. No doubt we'd both soon be fired if this behaviour continued, but right now I couldn't care less.

Time literally flew by and it was already reaching 7PM. I doused my skin and clothes with perfume before taking a last look at myself in the body-length mirror. I ran my hands over my widened hips and frowned at the amount of cleavage that was shown through my purple orchid satin dress. It was strapless and just above the knee. I wasn't sure whether to change or not.

I fingered my pearl necklace and fiddled with it endlessly. I wasn't up for getting ogled by the male public this evening. I'd hate to knock off a few blocks on my birthday; wasn't very lady-like. In a few minutes Tyreece would be here then we would leave for the restaurant. We managed to compromise as he stated I should at least do something memorable for today, so I chose the option to go for a meal with him, and him only. I fixed the curls in my hair that had turned into tight ringlets that rested on my shoulder and applied more mascara. The purple heels I purchased not too long ago actually looked good on my feet. I smiled weakly at my reflection; the creak of the door caused me to freeze. I turned and saw Claycia approaching.

"You look stunning," she commented.

"Thanks young one." She gave a wary smile and we both laughed.

"You're going with Tyreece again, aren't you?"

I raised my index finger to my mouth, indicating for her to be quiet. "Your dad can't know, he'd question me until my next birthday."

She sniggered and peered towards the door. "I didn't tell 'im."

I sighed in relief. "Good."

The doorbell rang and echoed through the house. He was here. I grabbed my shoulder bag and left the room, giving Claycia a kiss on the forehead before heading downstairs. I entered the living-room to say my goodbyes. Kieran, Andre, Dad and Uncle Clayton eyed me suspiciously, all carrying the same glare.

"I'm off," I announced.

"Yuh tink seh yuh big woman?" Uncle asked with wide eyes.

I laughed and shook my head. "Course not, uncle."

"Why's your dress so short though?" Kieran questioned. I rolled my eyes and dad gave me a brief hug.

"Enjoy yourself, Becc's," he said.

I gave him an odd look. "Aren't you gonna give me a curfew?"

"Not this time. Have fun." He smiled and I left the house.

Ty was stood by his parked car, waiting patiently as he rested beside it. He was dressed casual yet smart; looking mighty fine in his long-sleeved grey checked shirt, True Religion jeans, and silver Vans. His jewellery glistened in the light, along with his charming smile. He greeted me with a light peck on the lips and analysed me concisely. He then pulled me in closer by my waist, allowing me to inhale his sexy cologne.

"Happy birthday," he whispered in my ear. I squeezed him gently and smiled. "You look amazing."

"Not looking too bad yourself," I replied.

He chuckled and we stepped into the car. I waited for him to start up the engine, but instead he watched me closely. My brow arched as I questioned him mentally. He then delved into his pocket and handed me a tiny plastic case. I studied it and without any inquiries opened it to see a set of keys rested inside.

"Now you can come round whenever you want to," he said. I looked in his eyes and they became chinky once he smiled.

"Are you sure?"

"Why wouldn't I be?"

I held the keys tight in my palm. It suddenly occurred to me how committed he was to me and we'd only been together a few days. Maybe because it felt much longer than that. It really bothered me that I couldn't even do the same thing, as I didn't live alone or with a roommate like he did—in this case his twin brother. I put the keys back and beamed.

"Thanks," I muttered.

He rested his hand on the wheel and finally boosted the engine. The car came to life and rumbled beneath us. I rested my hand on his and rubbed it gently in appreciation then we finally set off down the road.

"I hope you don't think of that as a birthday present." I nodded my response and he tutted. "You'll get it eventually. Not today, but soon," he claimed.

"I don't want a present."

"You'll get one regardless." My eyes rolled and he noticed, releasing a light chuckle in return.

It didn't take long to reach West Kensington. We were just on time for our booking time at the Blue Lagoon, which was 7:30PM. We were shown our specific table in the far corner of the room and strode towards it. It was remarkable that even with heels this bastard was still taller than me. I was hoping we'd be the same height—the fact that he was 6'2 must've slipped my mind. He pulled my chair out for me and I cooed at his politeness. I took a seat and grinned at him.

"Thank you Mr. Freeman," I said with elegance.

He shook his head and laughed, taking a seat opposite me. "You're welcome Mrs. Freeman." I flashed a cheesy smile and he winked.

We ordered and the food came quite prompt. The atmosphere was really peaceful; dim lighting and calm chatter filled the room. I wasn't surprised; this was quite a fancy restaurant. Ty fed me a spoonful of his Beef Stir-Fry, I licked my lips and demanded for more but he shook his head.

"You have your own food to worry about."

I peered down at my Chicken Satay. It was sexy, but not as sexy as his stir-fry.

"I want yours," I muttered.

He stuck his tongue out and continued to eat. I kissed my teeth and kicked him underneath the table. He ignored my mild abuse and carried on eating. I decided to drink some of his Chardonnay instead, and it was the shit. I took a few sips until he managed to snatch it back.

"No Becc's, we wouldn't want you drunk again, would we?" He raised a brow and smirked. I was reminded of our lustful night together and kept my lips sealed. He chuckled at my embarrassment. "Thought so."

"I'm never getting drunk again," I mumbled.

"You say that now."

"I mean it. Being drunk is the worst state to be in."

He shrugged. "You weren’t saying that last time."

"Shut the fuck up," I said through gritted teeth.

He stroked his leg against mine in a sensual manner beneath the table. I kicked him once again and he burst out laughing at my attempt to make him feel pain.

"Fix your face birthday girl." I smiled sarcastically at his comment and he chuckled.

"Don't call me that. I don't wanna draw attention to myself just cos it's my birthday."

Just then I saw a few waiters bustle around the corner as the lighting became even dimmer. The background music ceased and suddenly every other table turned to face me.

"Happy birthday to you, happy birthday to you, happy birthday dear Rebecca, happy birthday to you," they sang merrily.

My mouth gaped open as five waiters stood around the table in a neat formation. One of them presented a chocolate cake right in front of me with 18 candles, all alight. Everyone began to clap and cheer and I slowly turned to Tyreece, who was smirking at me in a cheeky way. I made a mental note to get him back later.

"Make a wish," he said quietly.

I decided to comply and closed my eyes. After making my wish I blew out the candles effortlessly, causing everyone to cheer once again. I was handed a sharp knife and cut a piece for me and Tyreece, also one particular waiter named Pablo who just seemed awesome beyond belief. I handed Ty his slice in a bowl and he licked his lips. I tilted my head and became vigilant as he tucked into the cake. The way he ate was just so remarkable; I actually wanted a piece of him instead of the chocolate before me. I took a swig of my water and admired him. I was fortunate to have him here, with me. I cherished our relationship already and it had only just begun. I was prepared for our ups and downs; I'm willing to give Ty my all.

The rest of the evening we spoke and laughed, I genuinely had a good time. We eventually left after he paid the bill + tip and wrapped up the cake then got into the car. We sped off down the road and listened to nothing but the radio that played smooth R&B.

"Thanks for the meal," I said.

"No need to thank me, my treat." He lightly squeezed my thigh and smiled. "What was your wish?" he questioned, referring to my birthday cake.

"If I tell you it won't come true."

"What about a hint?"

"Nope." He tutted and I laughed at his annoyance. I turned the radio up and fixed my seatbelt.

"Gonna go back to mine and relax yeah?"

I leaned my head backwards and sighed contentedly. "Yeah," I agreed. The slow sensual voice of R.Kelly ran through my ears, I closed my eyes and rested for the whole journey...

"Rebecca..."

My eyes opened again and I looked to see we had now arrived at his house. I rubbed my eyes and grumbled foolishness. He chuckled and unhooked my seatbelt from around me.

"C'mon, we're here." I got out of the car and he shut the car door then locked it before taking my hand in his and leading me through his gate. He turned to face me. "A chance to use the keys," he said quietly.

I cracked a smile and fished into my bag to retrieve the brand new keys he had cut for me. Using the silver one I inserted it into its key hole and turned it sideways. We stepped in and all of the lights were off. The house remained quiet and still.

"I'm guessing Zion's not in?"

He shrugged. "He's probably with Olivia."

"I wouldn't count on that," I mumbled. After I finished her a long time ago, I doubt it. I chuckled to myself and he looked at me.

"What?"

"Nothing." I grinned at him in the darkness and he shut the front door. "I enjoyed myself tonight," I commented as he removed my jacket.

"I'm just glad you're all mine," he whispered. He pulled me into him and laid his lips on mine. I giggled as he sucked my bottom lip into his mouth. I rested my arms around his shoulders, pulling his body even closer. I couldn't help but groan into his mouth as he nurtured my bottom lip hungrily. He then trailed his lips to the nape of my neck instead, nibbling it gently and palming my ass whilst groping it firmly.

"Ty..." I breathed heavily.

He edged me closer into the wall and proceeded. With his hands still glued to my backside he lifted me up and I subconsciously wrapped my thighs around his waist. By now his manhood was pressed right against my core, I could feel the thickness of it and it was exacerbating the matter. I was already turned on. His lips moved in a steady motion and soon they had made their way back to my mouth. We kissed deeply; our passion filled the dark air quickly. Suddenly he detached his lips from mine and licked his own.

"I can't get carried away," he said on my lips, his warm breath tickling my face.

I smiled and he steadily let me down back on the ground. I was beginning to wonder why he had left the light off, but I didn't bother to question it. He held my hand and led me into his living-room, which was also pitch black.

"Is the electricity cut or some-..." Before I could finish the lights were switched on and different faces popped out from every piece of furniture.

"SURPRISE!" they all cheered in unison. I saw familiar faces of friends and family members, all clapping and applauding at my amazed facial expression.

I turned to Tyreece in awe and he winked.

Great.