Where There's Smoke... by Erosa Knowles

Author:Erosa Knowles [Knowles, Erosa]
Language: eng
Format: epub
Tags: Literature & Fiction, Genre Fiction, Urban Life, United States, African American, Romance, Urban
Amazon: B0052YOSTS
Publisher: Sitting Bull Publishing
Published: 2011-05-26T04:00:00+00:00

Chapter 12

Vianca stood on the patio of Smoke's condo looking at the water, and listening to the night crickets and insect sounds. Fernando had finally answered his phone. He’d misplaced his charger. After she updated him on Veronique’s actions, he’d become quiet. Experience taught her to wait. He wouldn’t be rushed.

“Vee, I’m thinking about retiring.”

Her heart dropped, she gasped as a nauseous feeling invaded her being. Digging deep for patience, she attempted to speak normally.

“Really? Why?” No she screamed. I'm not ready to handle life alone.

He sighed. “I’m tired. I want to settle down, create a family.” She’d known he’d met someone he cared for but he never spoke of it and she didn’t pry.

“You got somebody lined up?” She softened her voice, not wanting him to hear her pain of his abandonment, or the fear of being alone again.

“I met Samantha a coupla years back.” His tone was weary. “Whenever I’m in town we get together. The last time, she wasn’t available and it bothered me. A lot. So, I need to piss or get off the pot.” He chuckled. “I don’t want to get off the pot. I like her quite a bit. But being on the road, away from home, is no way to start. I figure I'll find a nine to five or something that keeps me close to home.“ His voice warmed as he talked about his plans.

With an aching heart and watery eyes, she released him in her heart. “I’m happy for you, Fernando.” She wiped the moisture from her cheek. “I hope she realizes she’s getting a good deal.”

“I’m the one getting a good deal.” He paused. “She’s a blonde.” Vianca straightened.

“What?” Her eyes dried as she calculated what his comment meant. “She’s gringa? White?” Her eyes widened.

“Yes.” Neither spoke. Fernando was her first cousin. Their fathers were brothers. No man in her family had married outside their ethnicity in fifty years, it was considered taboo. “I know she’ll be snubbed by the rest of the family, but I’d hoped you’d stand by me in my decision.”

Shame engulfed her. Fernando had been the one to rally around her when she lost her job, miscarried her baby her last year of high school. He’d listened to her cry when Anna played her in college. In short, he’d been her older brother. “Of course, Nando. You don’t have to ask. I was surprised, that’s all.”

“Good.” His voice lightened. “What is happening with you and Smoke?”

“What? There is no me and Smoke.” She said bending over the rail, trying to keep their conversation quiet.

“Vee, I knew you were attracted to him at the cabin, and I don’t believe you haven’t made a move.” He laughed at her expense. Heat ran up her face as she glanced toward the sliding door. “How’s his place?”

“Nice.”

“Just nice? The man couldn’t keep his eyes off you and you were no better. I hope this stuff with the pictures is settled soon, so you can see if there’s anything there.” She stared at the phone, a frown marring her brow.

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