too.”
“Yeah, I still have it. I have to have it because all of my work wouldn’t fit in my apartment. I have it paid up for the next few months, so right now, it’s not a problem. I hate not knowing what the future holds, but I’m determined to bust my ass to make sure I’m not out on it. Something has to give, man.”
“I tell you what, let me give you a loan, okay? It’s no sweat. You were there for me a few years ago, and I—”
“No, no.” King waved his hand and closed his eyes for a spell. “I’m not taking any handouts. I’ve got to figure this out on my own. I’m a grown ass man.” He swung his bag around and unzipped the front to ensure he had everything he needed. “My mother tried to do that too—offer money. I hadn’t even told her that the clothing store closed and I’m barely squeaking by. Someone must’ve told ’er.” He shrugged. “I’ve got a little saved up, but it’ll be gone soon. I’ll be okay though. I’ll figure this shit out.”
“Okay, well, since you won’t take a loan and I understand your reasons why, how about I get some of my friends from work to come to your art show and support, all right? Some of them I know are definitely into the whole art scene.”
“That works for me. I want to earn every dollar. I’ll make sure you get some flyers for the show, okay? That’ll help.”
“Definitely. I’ll put one in the break room, too.” They bumped fists. “So, are you going to Coney Island anytime soon?”
“Hold that thought, Jeremy. I’m going to put in a bid for the wall. Be right back.”
“You’re going to try to paint tonight, aren’t you?” Jeremy said with excitement. King nodded. “Oh, man. I can’t wait to see you in action again. Hopefully Jalal and Tyson will show up soon.” He took a hard chug of his beer.
“Yeah, I think they might be coming over together.” As he made his way to the hostess area, he noticed a group of women come in.
“Damn! All the cuties in here tonight!” Shane yelled practically in his ear, making him startle.
“Why are you creepin’ up on me like that, Shane?” King laughed. “But yeah, I’ve noticed that there are some nice views tonight, if you will. I may have to partake.” He didn’t try to hide his enthusiasm for a prospect as he rubbed his hands together.
Shane grimaced. “What about that long ass lecture you gave me earlier today about not worrying about any women? You said you weren’t going to chase any ass.”
“I’m not chasin’ it. I’m walking over to it.” They both burst out laughing. “Hey, I’m about to talk to this guy over here about the wall.”
“All right, bet. Tyson sent me a text. He’s on his way.” Shane took a sip of something brown in a short glass. Probably his signature drink. Hennessey.
“Is Jalal with him?”
“Yeah.”
“Cool. I left Jeremy across the way. Keep him company. He probably feels like a fish out of water since he hasn’t been here in forever.” He stepped away from Shane and took another glance at the women who were now congregated at the bar. One in particular caught his eye. She stood about five-foot-six and had rich deep caramel skin with reddish undertones. A natural sheen made her heart-shaped face glow, accentuating her broad, high cheeks and delicate chin, framed with thick, textured ebony waves that flowed against her shoulders. A golden peacock barrette adorned her hair, and her body was curved in all the right places. Utter perfection. Despite her diminutive stature compared to his own, she had long legs that went on for days.
Her red jumpsuit crisscrossed across the breasts, showing ample cleavage. Those breasts were more than a spoonful. His mouth watered at the sight of them as they pressed against the material. She possessed a nice round behind, not particularly large but big enough to squeeze, and he liked how the pants gathered at the ankles, accentuated with tiny red bows. Then he noticed her shoes. The pointy-toed red heels matched her outfit and looked expensive.
He stroked his beard slowly as he took her all in. She didn’t seem to notice him, but he made it his mission that before the end of the night, she sure as hell would. He turned away for a second. There he is. The host I need to speak to.
“Hey, how you