"Preach"

Hey,

I am working on a new set of stories that I found to have an interesting concept.

I find that I like writing. It frees your mind and allows me to escape in a world of my imagination.

Here is a small snippet of one of the stories I am working on.

Let me know if you like it. If you don't, tell me. I really valu your opinion.

Preach

Mysha watched Clay work in his yard as she did every morning since he moved in over a year ago and became the new minister at the church. Mysha hated the fact he was a minister, because in the town of Gospel there were two classes of people: Saints and Heathens.

Clay, in all of his blond glory, was a Saint. He followed the straight and narrow path. Every morning he would go for a jog. Returning home to pray in the alcove in this living room Mysha knew this because from her living room, she could see clear through the front of his house. After praying for twenty to thirty minutes, he would disappear in his bedroom and the come out dressed usually in dark slacks with a crisp white shirt.

Where Clay was a Saint, Mysha was definitely a Heathen. She didn’t attend church. Went out and partied with her friends. Wore the most provocative outfits she could create whenever, she was out to have a fun time.

Most of the time Mysha dressed normally, she’d wear jeans, t-shirts, or maybe a work uniform depending on the day of the week.

Weekends were a whole new deal and she loved to wear comfortable sweats and tees. She usually had Saturday mornings off and this gave her plenty of time to watch her gorgeous neighbor.

Mysha remembered when he moved in two summers ago. All of the members of the local church flocked to the house across the street. They were so excited about the new young minister.

Mysha saw a few of the girls she’d gone to school with and decided to walk over and talk to them. That’s when she saw him. He was stunning. His golden locks were held in a band at the nape of his neck. He was sweaty from the exertion that it took to help unload the moving van.

Very few things rendered Mysha speechless, but the appearance of her handsome neighbor was one of those events.

“Young Lady, you need to go back to your house. Your kind is not welcomed over here.” Mysha heard the scraggly voice of Mother Thomas, an elder lady from the church.

Mysha turned to face the older lady and was met by the disdain and disgust in her eyes.

The first time it happened, Mysha was hurt. When she moved to town a few years earlier, she actually went to the church. At first the people at the church were friendly, then one day she was going out with her friends and Mother Thomas saw her.

The look the old lady gave her was cold enough to freeze fire. That Sunday, when Mysha decided to go to church, she was invited to the Office of the First Lady of the Church. Apparently Mother Thomas, Mother Williams, and the First Lady of the Church felt the need to share a few home truths with the young lady.

“Well, Mysha, I understand that your mother has not taught you how respectable women dress, but as the head woman in this church I am letting you know that in this church you cannot dress and act like a streetwalker.” The First Lady told her rudely.

Mysha took offense at her harsh tone. “Mistress, I don’t see the need to insult my mother. I feel you are out of line.” Mysha retorted.

“Ahhh!” Mother Thomas gasped. “So rude and with no respect for your elders. You cannot talk to her like that. She is the head woman in this church.”

Mysha then turned on Mother Thomas. “Look, Mother Thomas, she had no right to insult my mother. The same way you don’t have the right to judge me. I thought you were supposed to be Christians. But the way you-“ First Lady cut her off.

“That is enough. If you are not going to be more respectable, I will ask you to leave.” The First Lady interjected.

Mother Williams sat and watched. She didn’t think it was far for these two women to team up on this girl so she decided to try and diffuse the situation.

“First Lady, Mother Thomas, maybe you two should calm down. I’m sure we can all talk about this.” she stated.

Both of the furious n older women turned on her. Mysha at this point had seen enough. She immediately jumped to Mother William’s defense.

“She is a member of your church and because she speaks with reason you attack her. You two women are a set of old hypocritical bitches and I will not come back to this fake ass church.” Mysha emphatically stated.

Mother Williams was hurt, because she didn’t expect her friends to turn on her. She felt that the young girl had been treated unfairly.

Mysha stormed out of the office and left. After she left, First lady apologized to Mother Williams for being short. And then she admonished her for not being willing to do God’s work and stand against evil.

Time passed and the old pastor retired. The church’s affiliation sent in a new young man to run the church.

He sparked Mysha’s interest. He seemed different from the other people in the town. Every morning when Mysha would leave for work, Clay would make sure he spoke and wished her a good day.

Once he realized she worked at the coffee shop, he came by to chat with her every morning. He seemed completely oblivious.

Dianna Chapter 2

Dianna 

At this point she had made it to her house. She got out of her car and went inside thinking about the handsome man at her job.

That night she decided to give Bryce a chance. She would arrive at work early so she could talk to him the next morning and let him know about her decision.

The next day at work, Bryce had made a complete one eighty degree turn around. He decided to stop his romantic pursuit of Dianna, giving her the space she demanded, and treat her as he would any other colleague.

Dianna arrived at school early to set up for her students. Today the classes would rotate in two hour blocks and she would meet the other children she was responsible for teaching. She was unsure what to expect from the students. Even though day one with her homeroom class had went well, she was meeting the other students for the first time today. Even though, she tried to ignore negative remarks, a few filtered through concerning some of the older students.

When Bryce arrived at work, Dianna walked to his room. The first thing she wanted to do was apologize for running out, and then she needed his advice on how to approach the upcoming day.

Dianna made it to Bryce’s door and knocked.

“Come in.” Bryce called. His heartbeat accelerated when he looked up and saw her enter the room, but his face remained impassive.

“Good morning Bryce, I wanted to-" Bryce stopped her abruptly.

In an emotionless, cold voice he stated, “Good morning Ms. Bouvier, you stated that we should maintain a professional relationship and I agree. I will no longer attempt to approach you or converse with you in any way that can be deemed inappropriate.

While we are at school we will address each other with our surnames and strive to work together and keep any personal feeling about each other under wraps. I apologize for coming on too strong to you yesterday, and I assure you it will not happen again.”

Dianna was shocked. She felt as if someone had ripped her heart from her chest and stomped on it. His word cut her to the quick. She’d just built up the nerve to tell this guy, she’d like to give him a chance and he cut her off at the knees. She was hurt, but hid it behind an angry outburst.

“Well, it seems you are capable of comprehending simple directives. I am glad you finally get it. I would have hated to take a complaint of harassment to the principal which I had considered doing. Since you seem to get it now, I will try my best to not allow my dislike of you to cloud my time here at Armstrong. Have a nice day, Mr. Yearly. I will see you this afternoon when we meet to discuss my students.” Dianna then turned and marched stoically out if his room.

Bryce watched her walk away and it felt as if his world had ended. He knew he had just made a fatal mistake. He heard her angry words, but he also heard the pain she was struggling to hide behind them. He saw the tears as they gathered in her eyes. He never meant to hurt her and he’d find a way to earn her forgiveness.

Dianna had to get away from him for a moment. She walked into the teacher’s lounge where she spoke to a couple of people that she passed and marched quickly into a restroom stall, locking the door behind her. It was then that she allowed the tears she’d been holding back to fall.

He hurt her. Bryce Yearly, hurt her and he didn’t even realize it. She never should have allowed herself to begin to care about him. <i>I can’t believe this, I finally, … Well….. Forget it. Momma is right.</i> She wiped away her tears and went to the mirror to fix her makeup.

Mrs. Towers came in. She could tell something was wrong. “Ms. Bouvier, what’s wrong?” She queried.

“Nothing,” Dianna answered, “Just being reminded of a lesson my Momma taught me. I’m fine.” She smiled at Mrs. Towers. “Now let’s go face these new students today.”

The two women exited the lounge and walked back to their classrooms.

Mrs. Towers had been at Armstrong for many years, and she knew a falsehood when she heard it. She felt that Dianna could handle whatever it was that upset her and decided not to press. But she was curious as to what upset the young woman.

Dianna made it to her classroom door and prepared to greet her students: Summer, also stood in her door, as well as Mrs. Towers and Bryce. A part of Dianna wanted to look at Bryce and see if his expression or demeanor had changed, but refused to acknowledge his presence. She did give in and sneak a peek at his door, and saw him staring back at her.

Mrs. Towers noticed the subtle exchange and finally realized part of the puzzle as to why Dianna was crying early in the morning.

Dianna continued working that day and not allowing the thoughts of a certain man dominate her brain. She would find herself glancing towards his door hoping to catch a glimpse of him

Sitting at her desk, Dianna began to questions herself, <i>What is wrong with me? I’m gone over some man. I know he’s fine, but he’s not worth all this stress. I'll just have to stop thinking about him.</i>

Another class was lined up and ready to enter Dianna’s room. These students were Mrs. Thyme homeroom class, and Ms. Thyme had already told her about two of the boys in her class.

The class entered her room quickly and quietly, all except the last two boys.

As soon as the boys arrived at her door, she stopped them. “Excuse me, gentleman,” Dianna said standing in front of the young men.

“Are you serious? Do you really think I am going to allow you in my classroom behaving the way you are?” Dianna asked the young men sternly.

 “Dang! Shorty, calm down.” Marcus replied. “What’s got you all hot and bothered? I can help cool you off.” He added winking at Dianna lewdly grabbing his crotch area.

Dianna was annoyed. Even though she had been warned about their outrageous behavior, she didn’t think little boys would really be that bold.

Keamon thought that his buddy was hilarious and fell over from laughing so hard.

Giving both boys a stern look and saying in her most serious voice, she let it be known that such lewd and lascivious behavior would not be tolerated in her class.

Keamon calmed down immediately; however, the Marcus became belligerent and aggressive as he angrily approached the teacher.

Bryce heard a commotion in the hall and came to his door, immediately. As soon as one of the boys became overly aggressive, Bryce interceded and called for security.

Taking out his phone, Bryce called for the resource officer. At this point Mrs. Towers and Ms. Thyme had stepped out to investigate the disturbance.

“This is Mr. Yearly, on the sixth grade hall, we need Officer Thigpen immediately.” Bryce said into his phone.

Upon hearing this Marcus decided fight. He swung at Bryce and Bryce grabbed him in a secure hold. Marcus’ movement actually frightened Dianna and she yelped.

“Ms. Bouvier, please stand in your door to witness this until the resource officer arrives. I want to make sure, Mr. Bright here does not try anything and fabricate these events into his favor?

The rest of the day progressed and finally ended. Dianna exited her classroom and met Summer in the hall. Summer had heard about her altercation involving the two boys from her class and was concerned.

“Ms. Bouvier, are you alright? I saw some of what happened with Marcus and Keamon.” Summer asked. She was terrified of the two boys and couldn’t imagine how she would handle a situation where they became overtly aggressive.

“I’m fine. Fortunately, Mr. Yearly came out and helped to get the situation under control.” Dianna explained as she breathed a sigh of relief.

The two women were walking past Bryce’s room when Bryce called out to them. “Ms. Thyme, Ms. Bouvier, will you come in please? I need to speak to you.

Both women turned and walked into his room. When Dianna’s eyes fell on him, Bryce’s heart rate increased. He wondered if she could hear the thumping that was so loud it seemed to roar in his ears.

He toned down his desire. She’d been more than clear that she wanted nothing more than a professional relationship with him, and he’d honor her wish.

Dianna and Summer entered his room. He asked both women to sit down and offered them bottled water. They then proceeded to talk about the events that occurred that day.

Both women learned that Marcus Bright would be transferred to Carver Alternative School for the rest of the school year and Keamon Battle, was given a four day suspension with strict supervision upon his return.

Both Dianna and Summer were relieved. Although one of the young men was going to comeback, he was not the more violent one. The three teachers continued to recap the day and address any concerns the novice teachers had.

Eventually they all headed home. Summer was being picked up by her friends leaving Bryce and Dianna alone.

“Well, Ms. Bouvier, I certainly hope the day’s events haven’t made you want to leave our profession.” Bryce said jokingly.

“No, I met tougher characters at the detention center. That young man is in for a surprise when he gets there.” Dianna added chuckling.

Bryce looked across the parking lot, then at Dianna. “Look, this morning, I was out of-“.

Dianna waved her hand to silence him. “Don’t worry about it. It’s OK.

I told you I wanted a professional relationship and you just reminded me of the parameters I put in place.”

Walking away she added, “I won’t forget and cross that line again.”

Bryce stood and watched her walk away. He felt sad, as if he just blown a fantastic opportunity.

The rest of the week went by uneventfully. The teachers taught classes and had faculty meetings as usual.

Finally, the weekend came, and it was time for a short break. Dianna had been depressed about the events that occurred earlier that week, particularly, her conversation with Bryce.

Dianna decided to simply, let it go. It was a Friday night and she wanted to get out of the house. She called her friend, Jamarkius, and asked if he was busy.

Jamarkius met Dianna at the local club. Tonight a local deejay was spinning records and air was buzzing with energy.

Dianna wanted to forget about her horrid week, so she spent a lot of time on the dance floor.

Summer came in with a group of friends and the two women exchanged pleasantries. Summer spoke to Jamarkius, even though he made her a little uncomfortable. But Dianna liked him, so maybe he wasn’t so bad.

Dianna had a few drinks and was beginning to feel tipsy. All of a sudden the deejay popped in her favorite dance hit. Dianna grabbed Jamarkius’ hand to dance, but he waved her off.

She went on to the dance floor alone, where Summer joined her in the fun.

Trey Songz’s voice boomed out of the speakers to a hip hop beat.

<i> Bottoms up, bottoms up.

Hey what’s in yo’ cup.

Gotta coupla bottles, but a coupla ain’t enough.

Bottoms up, bottoms up.</i>

Dianna and Summer were deep into the dance dominating the dance floor surrounded by scores of people. Everyone was gyrating, bucking, and engrossed in the music.

Bryce walked into the club. He had decided to just go out to try and get over a stressful week.  As he entered the club, he bumped into someone.

“Excuse me,” he said then looking up. He looked straight into the angry eyes of Jamarkius.

Jamarkius didn’t like him because he recalled how he watched Dianna the last time they were here. What really bothered him was the fact that Dianna watched him back. He didn’t mind the man checking out his woman, but he knew that for her to notice him, that meant she held some feelings for him.

“Hey, son Bruce, right.” Jamarkius greeted the competition glaring at him with cold dark eyes..

“Actually it’s Bryce” Bryce replied squaring his shoulders to show this man he was not intimidated.

“Hmmmm! Whatever.” Jamarkius responded, “Dianna is here with me. Unlike last time, if I have to leave, she leaves with me. You understand, teacher man.” Jamarkius addressed Bryce in a derisive tone while patting him on a shoulder.

Bryce glared at the pompous jerk standing in front of him. The stare down lasted until a young lady interrupted the two men as she passed by them on her way to the restroom.

Bryce walked away from Jamarkius and up to the bar to order a drink. On his way to the bar, he noticed Dianna and Summer in the middle of the dance floor. The two girls were having a great time. He did not miss how relaxed and happy Dianna looked while she danced.

Just for a moment, he hoped that one day she would look at him and smile that way. But this week, he’d messed up royally. His little speech earlier that week definitely blew any chances he had to get next to her.

Dianna felt her skin begin to tingle while she was dancing. Slowly she looked around the club. She saw her date, Jamarkius, flirting with a cute blonde that had just walked in. She saw Summer friends each laughing and having a good time.

Then, the music stopped and as she and Summer were leaving the dance floor to take a short break, her eyes strayed to the bar. Sitting in the center of the bar was Bryce, the man that starred in her fantasies. He was nursing his drink, so she quickly looked away so he would not think she was staring at him.

She returned to the table where she and Jamarkius was sitting just as her date returned from flirting.

 “Well, did you get her number?” Dianna asked Jamarkius jokingly.

Chuckling as he sat down, he replied “Girl, you know I only see you. I ran into teacher boy earlier and had to put him in his place.”

Dianna perked up. “You talked to Bryce.” Squinting her eyes and glaring at him she asked, “What did you say to him?”

Leaning back and becoming slightly irritated Jamarkius stated. “What did I say to him, Damn girl. You didn’t ask about what he might have said to me?”

She didn’t really want to argue with him tonight. He was her friend after all and she did invite him out. “You’re right Jamarkius. I should have asked. But I know you have a temper and I really don’t need the headache. But, hey. Let’s forget about him and enjoy the rest of the night.”

Bryce watched Dianna and Jamarkius the entire time they were in the club. A little after midnight, Dianna and Jamarkius left.  Bryce noticed how he kept his hands all over her the entire time they were there. He became angry at the thought of her being with that bastard.

Bryce called for his tab, paid it, and decided to call it a night.

Meanwhile, Jamarkius drove Dianna to her house. Dianna prayed that Tasha was home, because she really didn’t feel like fighting him off tonight. When they reached her house, Jamarkius walked to her door and invited himself in. Dianna went along with him for a minute and made coffee for them as he talked.

“Hey, Jamarkius, I have to be up early tomorrow to take care of some things. I think you should leave.” Dianna suggested after listening to him talk for a while.

“Give me some sugar, baby, and I’ll go.” Jamarkius replied as he scooted over next to her on the couch.

Dianna allowed him to kiss her as a way to accelerate his leaving. Fortunately for her Tasha was home and she came into the room. So Jamarkius ended his wet, slimy kiss and headed home.

“Dianna, I don’t like that guy. He’s dangerous” Tasha told Dianna after Jamarkius left.

“He’s not so bad. Besides, I’ve known him a while. He just takes getting used to.” Dianna stated trying to relieve Tasha’s concern, but really she was not very comfortable around her old friend anymore.

Another couple of months of the school year progressed. Dianna and Summer met with Bryce at least three time each week for an evaluation on their performances, to work on their curriculum, and quick Q and A sessions.

Bryce cleverly scheduled a couple of their meeting during their conference periods so that they didn’t have to stay afterschool late more than two days a week.

He rarely spent time alone with Dianna during these few months, but that didn’t mean he did not watch her. He noticed everything she did. However, they kept all of their interactions completely above board.

One Wednesday at the end of the day a faculty meeting was held. The meeting was extremely long and it was turning dark when it ended. Dianna left the school to walk over to the bus stop when Bryce offered her a ride home. She immediately refused.

“Dianna, you are not catching a bus this late in the afternoon. Let Bryce take you to your house. There is nothing wrong with allowing someone to help you.” Mrs. Towers chimed in as she was headed to her car where her husband was waiting.

Feeling like she was on the spot, Dianna reluctantly accepted his offer. Bryce walked her to his car, and held the door for her.

Once Dianna was in the car, Bryce tried to make small talk.

“So, how are you? Are you still dating that guy? I haven’t seen you at the Club in a while.”

Dianna adjusted herself in the seat. Dianna replied. “I’ve been fine and Jamarkius and I are off again.”

“Dianna, I know I have no rights here, but that guy… Well, I really don’t like him.” Bryce took a deep breath inhaling the scent of Jasmine that permeated her skin. “Will you go out with me? Before you say no, just think about it.”

Dianna’s heart pounded in her chest. Her body betrayed her and her panties became soaked. Her nipples hardened, and she crossed her arms across her chest to hide them.

Bryce noticed her movement and took it to mean that he had annoyed her again.  Soon, he pulled in front of her house and helped her get out of his car. As he gripped her hand, an amazing sensation shot through their arms.

Dianna gasped and he noticed her erect nipples poking through the fabric of her dress. His cock throbbed and he knew that as soon as he got home, he’d be pounding his meat raw at the thought of her.

“I’ll think about it. Going out with you I mean.” Looking away from his face and blushing, Dianna thanked him for the ride home and rushed into her house.

Bryce smiled as she closed and locked her door. He felt better than he had in months. If her body’s reaction was any indication, she was not as immune to him as she pretended to be.

Whistling to himself, Bryce drove home with a smile on his face.

The next day at school, Bryce made sure he stopped by Dianna’s classroom to speak to Dianna. She looked across her room and saw him standing in her doorway. Smiling, they greeted each other warmly. The rest of the day progressed uneventfully.

Before long, half of the school year was over, and it was time for a winter break. The students were dismissed early and the staff had a pre-holiday party. Gifts were exchanged and everyone went home. Dianna had several packages to carry so Bryce gave her another lift home.  Dianna happily accepted his offer, because secretly she wanted to spend time alone with him again.

While driving her home, Bryce decided to see if she’d thought about going out with him.  “So, Dianna, have you thought about going out with me?” Bryce queried.

Dianna was nervous, she wanted to scream yes, but she didn’t want to seem too eager. As she chewed her bottom lip, she shyly answered, “Ok, I’ll go out with you.”

Bryce was ecstatic. “Really, wow, that is great! So is Tuesday night good for you.” He’d already made preregistrations at his favorite restaurant Lillo’s. He just needed to confirm.

Dianna smiled at him, and he felt amazing. “Yes, Bryce. I would love to go out with you Tuesday. “

Tuesday night arrived quicker than Dianna thought it would. She had told Tasha about her date with Bryce and Tasha declared immediately that they had to go shopping.

So equipped with a new navy blue dress that shaped to her body voluptuous body accentuating her slim waist, along with sexy lingerie that matched the dress with matching pumps, Dianna would look amazing for her date.

Bryce picked her up at six.

Dianna finished her shower and started to get dressed an hour early.  She oiled her skin with the Jasmine scented lotion that she loved and proceeded to dress in the sexy lingerie that she was sure he would not see but the strapless bra and tiny panties made her feel wanton and sexy.

She then shimmered into the form fitting navy dress that she’d purchased just for this night. The dress covered her body and hugged her curves like a second skin.

She sat at her vanity applied a light coating of makeup and removed the silky wrap cap from her head. She then stood in the full length mirror to see how she looked. Dianna had to admit that she was stunning.

The doorbell rang and since no one else was home so she went to answer the door. Looking outside, she saw that Bryce had arrived early. Her heartbeat accelerated.

Opening the door, she let him in and wondered if he could hear her heart beating in her chest. Standing before her was a perfect male specimen. Her body shivered as she looked at him from head to toe.

Her eyes absorbed how his pinstriped navy suit hugged his upper body as if it was tailored just for him and the crispness of the collar of the dress shirt that peaked out from underneath.

Her eyes traveled down the length of him drinking in the slim tapered waist leading to the long sexy legs encased in a dark pair of trousers ending at the top of navy and black wing-tipped Stay Adams.

Bryce’s eyes were riveted on the beauty that stood in front of him.  He always thought that she was a lovely woman but tonight a Goddess stood before him. She looked amazing the dress she wore. It covered her like a second skin.

He inhaled the scent of Jasmine on her skin and his body was as hard as steel. When Dianna came to the door wearing the dress she had chosen, Bryce could not help as his imagination ran wild at the thought of what she was wearing underneath.

Bryce, who was speechless until now, spoke “Dianna, you look amazing. I, Wow!, Amazing!”

Blushing and just as stunned, Dianna said, “Thank you, Bryce. You look handsome as well.” Looking away Dianna added, ”Please have a seat. Would you like a drink?”

“No, I’m fine. I can just sit here until you’re ready.” Bryce replied.

After making sure her guest was comfortable, Dianna went and put the final touches on her makeup for the evening. When she came out from the back, she and Bryce headed out for the evening.

Bryce had made reservations at Lillo’s. The couple was greeted by the hostess and led to their seats.

“Wow! Dianna, you look amazing. If I’m dreaming, please let me sleep” Bryce said staring at the lovely woman sitting in front of him.

Dianna was so nervous. <i>This is just dinner with a guy from work. It’s really no big deal. I’ve got to calm down.</i>

“So, Dianna, other than you rented a house from my dad and now teach, I don’t know a lot about you. Tell me what makes Dianna tick?” Bryce asked after they’d ordered drinks from their server.

“Well, there’s not much to tell. I was raised by my Mom. She never talked about my Dad. But I had a great childhood.” Dianna explained. She told him about getting her first job, starting her own babysitting company, and even saving enough of her own money to go to school.

If Bryce was not infatuated before, he was captivated by her when she reached the end of her tale.

Dianna realized that she was talking so much that Bryce was not talking. ”Oh I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to monopolize the conversation. Tell me something I don’t know about you Bryce?”

“Well, I was also raised by my Mom and grandmother from the time I was eleven. Joseph, really didn’t want a family. He only married my Mom because she got pregnant with me.”

“He reminded me every day that I cost him money and ruined his life. The year I turned eleven, times were really hard. I broke my arm so they now had medical bills. Joseph got mad one day, and let’s just say I thank God for my Grandmother. She was the glue that held us together.”

Dianna held his hand across the table as he revealed her the horrible memories from his childhood.

At the end of his story, Dianna had gained a whole new level of respect for him. Bryce Yearly was definitely his own man. She could not find any reason at this point to not give him a chance. She liked him.

After eating dinner, the couple decided to take in a movie. Even though the movie was not one Dianna would normally watch, she truly enjoyed seeing the movie with Bryce. Before long the evening came to an end. As Bryce pulled into her driveway, and escorted her to her door, she invited him in for coffee.

Bryce wanted more than anything to accept, but he didn’t want to risk pushing her too fast. He knew if he went in, they would end up doing more than drinking coffee. So he kindly refused, but gave her a fervent good night kiss. He waited until Dianna was safely inside before he drove off. Dianna stood watching him drive off from her window.

“Ooooooh girl, tell me the dirt.” squealed Tasha. Dianna jumped because she was so enthralled by the man that drove away, she didn’t realize her friend was even in the room.

“Hey, I thought you had to work tonight?” she asked Tasha.

“I did, but it was slow, so they sent me home. Dish!” Tasha demanded.

“Well, he’s nice. I like him.” Dianna stated and then tried to change the topic. “So, we need to plan Christmas Dinner this year. We need to decide which one of us will cook?”

Tasha was pensive for a moment and then burst out laughing, “Mrs. Lucas and Mrs. Sanchez, girl you know they’d spank us if we went near the kitchen.”

Dianna and Tasha share a nice laugh. Their unconventional family celebrated Christmas together every year. Mrs. Sanchez and Mrs. Lucas cooked all of the meals and declared that Tasha and Dianna could make the drinks. The first year Dianna and Tasha wanted to host the dinner and tried to cook it.

After the fire department left, Mrs. Sanchez and Mrs. Lucas, banned the two young women from preparing the holiday meal.

Dianna and Tasha talked a while longer and then they went to bed. Right before she lay down, Dianna’s phone ring.

 “Hey beautiful, I wanted to tell you I had a great time tonight. Do you have plans tomorrow? I would love to spend the day together.” Bryce’s smooth tone flowed through the phone line.

Smiling into the phone, excited to hear his voice, Dianna answered, “I need to do some Christmas shopping. I have to buy gifts for everyone. So I’d love to spend the day with you.”

“I’ve got to buy my Mom’s gift. Maybe I can bribe you to help me find her something. So can I pick you up early, say seven?” Bryce asked.

“Great see you at seven.” Yawning, Dianna bid him a good night. Then she fell asleep with a certain dark-skinned God starring in her dreams.

The next morning, Dianna was up early waiting for Bryce to arrive. Bryce arrived, rang her doorbell, and Dianna invited him. Bryce entered and waited for her to get her coat and they headed to Hardee’s for breakfast.

“So, do you have any idea of what you want to buy for your Mom? My Mom basically told me what she wants, and as her only daughter I am required to get her whatever she asks for.” Dianna informed him smiling.

Laughing, Bryce asked. “You mean your Mom told you exactly what she wanted. Man, I wish I was that lucky. My Mom always say, <i>”I’m happy with whatever you get me son.</i> Then, I can always tell when I disappoint her. She pulls this fake smile and the pitch of her voice rises and she thanks me.”

Dianna laughed, “Hey call her and she if she can give you some hints today. Together, I’m sure we will find something she likes. I have my Mom’s list, so we’re good on that front.”

After that they finished breakfast and started on their adventures for the day.

They started at the mall. It was busy and crowded. Bryce took every opportunity he could to touch and hold onto his companion. Each time he held her by her waist or took her hands, he would always look at her face to see if she objected, but each time he held her she smiled a little more.

They stopped for lunch at a local pub and had a wonderful time chatting.

Before long it was night, and Dianna was tired

.

“Hey, I know it’s late. Are you ready to head home? I hate for this evening to end. Let me make you dinner.?” Bryce asked.

“Ha, When tonight? Are you serious?” Dianna laughed. They had been together since seven that morning, and it was almost nine o’clock at night. It was too late for someone to cook a dinner.

“Well, not tonight, I meant maybe another day after Christmas. How about it?" Bryce queried.

“Well, you are a slick one, aren’t you? You’ve got a deal, but I get to bring dessert.” added Dianna chuckling.

“It’s a deal. One thing, I don’t like nuts of any kind.” Bryce added.

The mood inside the car became quieted as they arrived in her driveway. Dianna saw that Tasha was home. “Hey, my roommate is in, do you want to come in and meet her? Well, you met her at the meeting years ago, it’s just…” Dianna stammered.

Bryce reached over and touched her chin. “Yes, I’d love to meet your roommate. I just hope she doesn’t hate me, too much.”

They got out of the car and entered the living room where Tasha was watching a movie. 

“Hey, Tasha, I want you to meet Bryce. Bryce, this is my roommate and best friend LaTasha Black.” Smiling as she introduced two people who were important to her.

‘Well, so this is the mystery man. Tell me Bryce, what are you plans for my best friend?” Tasha asked giggling.

Bryce smiled, he liked her. “Well, I’m hoping to get to know her better and maybe, well.. Who knows?”

Dianna pushed her friend playfully and admonished her to quit teasing him. Eventually Tasha went to bed, and left them alone.

“Bryce, can I kiss you?” Dianna asked timidly.

“Baby, that is one question you never have to ask.” Bryce chuckled.

Pulling her close in his arms, she leaned into him and covered his lips with hers. When their lips met, her heart pounded in her chest. Bryce’s spirit soared as he reveled in the feel of her lips gently caressing his.

As the kiss ended and their heartbeats slowed down, both exhaled. Then noticing the hour, Bryce stood to leave. “I hate this part, but baby, I’ve got to go. I’m visiting my Mom for the next few days, but I will call you every day I am away.”

His hand was stroking his cheek, she grabbed it and kissed his palm, smiling and said, “I’ll miss you and you’d better call.” Dianna whispered softly.

He then kissed her passionately and then went home.

Bryce went to visit his mother and over the next few days Dianna was extremely busy. She finished Christmas shopping on her outing with Bryce. She and Tasha collected toys for needy children and delivered them to the Our House Shelter. They both even helped serve Christmas dinner on Christmas Eve at the homeless shelter.

Bryce called her everyday just to say hello. Christmas day arrived and Dianna received a great surprise. When Mr. George arrived he brought a special guest with him. Dianna opened the door and was overjoyed, to see her mother Genevieve at the door with Mr. George. Her mother decided to spend Christmas with her daughter and her extended family this year.

As they were sitting down for dinner, she thought about Bryce and hoped he was having a wonderful time with his Mom. She missed him. While she was musing, the doorbell rang and Bryce walked in accompanied by his mother. Dianna rushed from the table and leaped into his arms.

He even brought gifts to her and everyone in her family. Christmas day was very special to both of them. They were ecstatic to spend the day together. They all had a great time.

When dinner was over and Bryce’s mother, Catherine, and Genevieve were talking with the other house guest. Bryce asked Dianna to go for a ride with him.

They let Tasha know so she could tell anyone that missed them that they’d be back. Bryce drove to his house. He wanted to spend some time alone with Dianna and give her a special surprise he had bought for her.

Dianna had never been to Bryce’s house and was very impressed with how immaculate it was. He led her to his den and offered her a drink. He then presented her with his gift. He was so nervous.

“Dianna, I bought something for you. I hope you like it.” He gave her a beautifully wrapped package. Dianna opened it and inside the package was a huge stuffed white bear wearing a blue and green plaid tie.

“Bryce,” Dianna gasped, tears forming in her eyes. “I can’t believe this, where did you find him?” She asked hugging her new friend.

“I remember you telling me about wanting a bear like this when you were little, and you didn’t tell you Mom because you didn’t want to upset her. When I was driving to Mom’s the other day, I stopped at a small eatery and saw him sitting in the window at shop across the street and had to get him for you. Do you really like it?” Bryce asked nervously, becoming concerned at the tears that were flowing from her eyes.

Leaping into his arms and hugging him tightly, Dianna declared, “Baby, I love it. Thank you. This is the best gift ever. Ohh Bryce…” Dianna was speechless as she held on to him.

Bryce rubbed her back with both of his hands and reveled in the feel of her luscious body as it was pressed tightly against him.

Slowly his body began to heat up. “Hey baby, so what will you name him?” Bryce asked as he tried to get control of his libido.

Dianna began laughing, because she had the perfect name for her new friend. “Mr. B., his name is Mr. B..

She started to slide down his body as he slowly released her.  “Mr. B., what does it mean?” Bryce asked curiously.

At this point she was out of his arms, and had moved over to cuddle with her new friend.

Dianna stroked the side of his face as they stood together for a moment. She was staring to have deep feeling for him and after tonight she could tell he made a great impression on her family

“Dianna,” Bryce sighed as he closed his eyes and luxuriated in the feel of her stroking his skin. Bryce caught her hand and kissed it gently. Then he kissed her passionately. Leading her to the futon in the den, Bryce laid back and gently pulled Dianna on top of him. “Baby, I lo…” he stopped.

“Wait, what did you say?” Dianna asked.

Bryce didn’t want to scare her away by moving too fast, so he covered. “Nothing, I was saying I loved having dinner with your family today. We’d better go. Mom is supposed to be staying with me for a couple of days and I shouldn’t leave her alone for so long.

“Um, You’re right. I need to get home. I do have guest.” Dianna said getting off the futon. Bryce stood and pulled her into a passionate embrace and kissed her slowly. Then he drove her back to her house.

When they got back to her House, Bryce opened her door for her and Dianna walked into the house carrying her new friend Mr. B in her arms.

At this point everyone was tired and Mr. George needed to get back home. So, Bryce offered to drive him home and he gathered his Mom and left, kissing Dianna at the door before leaving for the last time.

“So, do you have a date for New Years’ Eve? Dianna asked. “There’s a gathering at the Club, I was wondering…?”

Bryce chuckled, “You think I’d miss a chance to kiss all over you. I’m there girl.”

Bryce was excited about joining Dianna on New Year’s Eve at the local club. New Year’s Eve arrived and Bryce picked both Dianna and Tasha up and they headed to the club. Tasha was meeting some friends at the club and simply needed a ride.

Everyone at the club was mingling, dancing, and having a great time. Bryce and Dianna danced to a few songs when she decided to take a break. Bryce was dancing with Tasha as Dianna found her way to the table to sit down.

“So, I see, you let teacher boy hit that” Dianna flinched at the sound of Jamarkius’ voice. He sat across from her and she felt extremely apprehensive. “You know I don’t want you going out with him.”

“Jamarkius, we are not together. You don’t have the right to tell me who to date. Please leave.” Dianna ordered with more confidence than she felt.

Months ago after her last date with Jamarkius, he was extremely forward with her and she found herself actually afraid. If Tasha had not been home, well, she didn’t want to think about it.

Jamarkius stroked her cheek with his finger and she felt her stomach lurch. “You like Teacher Man, right. If you want him to stay pretty, this is your last date with him.” he then walked away.

Bryce finished dancing with Tasha and joined Dianna at the table. He could tell something was wrong. “Hey what happened? Are you alright.?”

Dianna plastered a smile on her face and answered, “I’m fine. I just had a bad feeling that’s all.” Then, she went on to enjoy the rest of their evening. They even culminated the night by sharing a mind-numbing kiss at the stroke of midnight.

After midnight, Dianna looked around and didn’t see Jamarkius anymore, so she felt a sense of relief.

Bryce drove both women home. Before leaving he and Dianna spent a few minutes talking on the porch. “So, now am I your boyfriend?” Asked Bryce sheepishly, kissing the tip of her nose.

“Hmm, never wanted you as a boyfriend, I would prefer to call you my man. What do you think?” She asked smiling and was rewarded with a hot kiss.

“That makes you my woman, right? I like it. So my woman, I will see you later this morning.” Kissing her one last time, he bid her goodnight and drove home.