Naughty No More Read Online Free PDF Page B

wounded by our loss too, but there was a small part of me that believed there never was a baby. For me, some things didn’t add up. When she came to me crying, and broke the news, I kind of expected it.
    Either way, we were still a couple. Over the weekend we’d been ice skating, to the movies, and last night, Scorpio and I went to the Jazz Corner. I was so, so tired, but I didn’t want to get too far behind on my work. Scorpio was still asleep, but she told me to wake her at noon. I didn’t, but around 2:00 P.M. that day, she woke up. She came into my office, rushing to put on her clothes.
    â€œBaby, why didn’t you wake me?” she asked. “I was supposed to open up Jay’s for one of my stylists, Bernie.”
    â€œI did wake you, but you wouldn’t get up. Besides, have you looked outside? There’s no way you’re going to make it to Jay’s with all that snow and ice out there.”
    She pulled the curtains aside to look out the bay window. “When did all of this happen?”
    â€œIt started early this morning. According to the weather channel, it’s going to get worse.”
    â€œShane, I have to get home. If Bernie hasn’t called my cell, then I know she’s cancelled her appointments. Still, I need to get home.”
    â€œGo call Bernie to make sure everything is cool. If so, I’ll take you home because I’m not about to let you drive in that mess all by yourself.”
    Scorpio pulled out her cell phone and left the room. As soon as she left, my phone rang. I looked at the caller ID and didn’t recognize the number. Not wanting to be bothered, I let the call go to voicemail. A few minutes later, the phone rang again. This time, Jaylin’s phone number came up. I hesitated, but then answered.
    â€œHello,” I said.
    â€œShane, its Jay. What’s up?”
    â€œNothing much,” I said, keeping my response short. I hadn’t heard from him in a while. The last time we spoke, he seemed kind of bitter because I decided not to make a move to Florida.
    â€œI’m, uh, sorry to bother you, but I need a huge favor. I was wondering if you could help me.”
    â€œIt depends on what it is.”
    â€œNokea attended her friend’s baby shower this weekend, and now, she’s stranded at the airport. Because of the weather, they have no idea when her plane will depart. Nokea said it could be a couple of days and she’s ready to come home. Would you mind picking her up for me and bringing her home? I would really appreciate it.”
    St. Louis to Florida was a nineteen hour drive. With the weather being so bad, I knew it would be longer than that. Damn. “That’s a long drive, Jay. Are you sure she won’t get home faster by waiting on a plane?”
    â€œThe way things are looking, I don’t think so. I know the streets are pretty bad, but if you take your time things should be cool. Besides, being at the airport all day is driving her butt crazy. I know she’s ready to get the hell out of there.”
    I thought about when Jaylin and Nokea drove to St. Louis to see me in the hospital. I had to be there for him, just like he was there for me. “I’m sure getting her safely to you is of key importance and it sounds like you might be missing your wife.”
    â€œPossibly,” he said. “Not only that, but it’ll give us a chance to talk face to face. I know I haven’t called you that much, but I’ve been trying to work out some things.”
    â€œIf you remember, I suggested that you take all the time you needed. Wha . . . what entrance is Nokea at?”
    â€œTake down her cell phone number and call her. She’ll tell you exactly where she’s at. Your generosity will be well rewarded.”
    â€œYou don’t have to pay me, Jaylin. I’ll call Nokea and I guess we’ll see you soon.”
    Jaylin gave me Nokea’s number and I wrote it down.