After she expressed she wanted to go, we left. We said our goodbyes to Kim and Petey before leaving. She gave me more details in the car. While listening to her story, I recalled having to test drive “The Easy” pills to see if there was a market for them before we copped them in large quantities. They didn’t make much noise in the hood so the goons took them out into the more affluent areas. It didn’t pan out for us in the end because the expense it came with; traveling outside of our normal parameters and the risk of getting knocked by One-Time, also known as law enforcement, exceeded the profits. I passed the connect off to my white counterparts with more selective clientele. The potential hazard didn’t fit my profile either. Along with the fact that it was an illegal substance, was the sex crimes behind it. It carried too much liability. But I did recall the area Rayna mentioned where she encountered their attackers being one of the test locations. This shit was crazy.
I knew on the surface this was a long shot, but I was convinced she was correct with her conjecture. My dilemma now was, we know who raped and even impregnated Michelle but who fucked Rayna? Those fucking clowns! I couldn’t have them or anyone else knowing that they fucking smashed someone I’m pursuing or in a relationship with. That could be bad for my reputation and therefore business.
All I could do was be sympathetic to Rayna. I told her I’d look into it, but couldn’t give her details as to exactly what that meant. And if I could be of any help to Michelle I would. Of course, I couldn’t share with her my level of culpability in this matter. I knew this had to be handled underground. I couldn’t let it get to the law, which meant I had to handle this shit tonight.
I was tight that night so after the club I dropped Rayna off and went home. I was surprised to see Tara at my front door. I hadn’t seen her in almost two months and hadn’t talked to her, practically, since then as well. She’s called almost every day but I haven’t been taking any of her calls. I had been too tired to deal with Tara’s shit. There was no need; nothing would change my mind.
As I approached I asked, “Can I help you?” When I looked in her eyes, I noticed she’d gained a few pounds…in the face at least.
“Hey.” She wore a glum expression, even her body lacked its usual grace and posture.
“What?” My tone was terse. It was just not a good night for me and Tara needed to know this.
“Azmir, we need to talk,” she bellowed dramatically. I wasn’t interested. “Look, I can see you’re serious about this break up thing. And I…I…I don’t think we have to throw in the towel that easily. There’s so much to look forward to…” her voice trailed off as she tried to capture my gaze.
“Things like what?” I asked curious for even half an answer. That’s when her eyes traveled down towards her shoes.
“Azmir, I’m…I’m pregnant,” Tara announced and her gaze returned to mine with tears in her eyes. I froze. I was numb. I stole a few moments to compose myself and think. There was something about this impromptu announcement that didn’t feel right to me. I don’t think I’ve touched Tara since her birthday sometime last fall.
“Really.” I snorted. It wasn’t intentional but I couldn’t believe her audacity.
“Yes!” she exclaimed in her baby voice. There was a long pause.
“When did you find this out?”
Tara shifted in her stance. I could tell she was uneasy. “I’ve known for a while but couldn’t deal with it and us at the same time.”
“…by who?” I snipped.
She swung her head back and gasped for air before hissing through gritted teeth, “What in the hell are you implying?”
“Look, you and I both know you were fucking Dwayne. I am well aware of your diddling capabilities; we’re past that now. Let’s not go girl scout, okay?” I looked at her ready for rebuttal.
She spoke so reserved, “Azmir, I did not sleep with Dwayne. I told you, that was between—” I interrupted.
“…Essence and them,” I finished for her. "You’ve been singing that song too long now and I’m not buying. Honesty can take you a long way with me. Tara, if you’re pregnant and it’s my baby we’ll talk…but don’t try to use bogus excuses like this to spark something. Move on,” I stated with conviction.