Thursday 25 October 2012

4. The Morning After - Flashback

*Okay so this is my first official chapter of this fic, since the other three belonged to Kellie, I just hope I can live up to her writing cause she's amazing! It's a lil' short cuz I just wanna see how people like my writing first so, here goesss....*

The next morning Nicki woke up first, she was still in Drake's arms as she adjusted to the amount of light in the room. Feeling her shift about he spoke without opening his eyes, making her jump.

"Mornin' you."

"Happy birthday baby." As soon as she said that he smiled before opening his eyes and looking at her.

"Thanks." Leaning in to kiss her she accepted before pulling away to look at him properly as he spoke again. "So? How does it feel?"

"How does what feel?"

"How does it feel to be datin' a pensioner?" Without warning she burst into a fit of laughter.

"Oh my God you're so silly! But that is scary though, y'know? You're officially in your twenties.

"I know. But I'm still a big kid at heart, you know that right?"

"Mmm, well you seemed pretty grown last night." She licked her lips as she trailed off remembering their night.

"Oh?"

"Mhmm." They continued to smile at one another and exchange kisses before there was a loud knock on their door. It was Candi's loud ass.

"Yo! Are y'all even gon' come out of that damn room all weekend? 'Cause we got food waitin' on the table for y'all down here. Hurry it up." She turned to walk back downstairs as they laughed quietly.

"She's right babe, we better get up."

"I'm already up." She followed his eyes down to his crotch area seeing the large bulge in the bed sheets.

"Oh, shoutout to mornin' wood!" Cackling to herself she slapped his chest playfully, asking him to move. She would have climbed over but after last night she wasn't sure if she'd be able to. "What are we gon' do 'bout the bed sheets?" He looked down as she asked and pulled the blanket they lay on off the bed to see the blood stains.

"I'll sort it, you just go shower or whatever you need to do, kay?" He kissed her head before she walked into the en suite bathroom and shut the door behind her.

Sitting at the breakfast table with Safaree was really silent and awkward. Everyone else had already eaten and Rex had driven them out to get more food for the weekend.

"So, y'all have fun watchin' the movies last night?" Nicki switched her eyes to Drake as he tried to make conversation with her best friend. It had always been kind of dangerous territory, she knew Safaree was protective and Drake wasn't exactly part of their little "gang" but that's why she invited him this weekend. She really liked him and wanted for him to be included too.

"Mm, was alright." Shaking her head she cut her eyes at Safaree but he didn't see. Not one to sit in an uncomfortable situation Drake picked his plate up and kissed Nicki's forehead.

"I'mma go take a shower."

"Kay, I'll see you up there later."

Waiting for him to leave Nicki slammed her spoon on to the wooden table. "The fuck is wrong wit'chu SB?! Why you actin' like a freakin' child?!"

"Oh, I'm sorry what would you like? For me to apologise? You think I like listenin' to y'all fuckin' under my roof?" Immediately cringing she rested her head in her hands and sighed.

"Safaree, we weren't meanin' to be disrepectful and I'm sorry for that but what I'm not apologisin' for is the fact that we had sex. 'Cause that's what you want ain't it? You want me to say sorry for sleepin' with him, right? Well, you don't own me Safaree! I can do what I want, I don't need your permission."

"Aight, whatever Nic, do what you want but let me tell you this, I am not gon' be there when everythin' comes crumblin' around you. I'm not gon' pick up the pieces." Throwing his dirty plate into the sink he stormed off to his room, slamming the door behind him.

Exiting the shower he furrowed his brow seeing Nicki packing all of their stuff up. She was crying.

"Woah, babe what's wrong, why you cryin'?" Without even hesitating he pulled her to him as she looked away and wiped her face,

"Nothin' but we're not stayin' here, can we go back to your place?"

"Course we can, is there a reason why?" He removed his towel from around his waist as he finished drying off. She was too upset to admire his assets as she finished zipping up the duffel.

"Ugh, just Faree actin' like a damn child. I can't be dealin' wit' his sulky ass right now." Sniffing again as she wiped the last remaining tears she sat on the bare bed, as Drake had stripped it an washed it himself.

"Ard, well just let me throw on some clothes and I'll go load up the car."

***

"Nic, you can't leave just yet boo! The weekend is just startin'!" TT was stood pouting as Nicki and Drake were saying goodbye.

"I know but things are a lil' tense right now-"

"Wait, you and SB had a row didn't you?" Lauren crossed her arms as Candi looked between them all. Safaree wasn't there though, he was still up in his room.

"He's actin' like a pathetic pre-schooler and to be quite fuckin honest I can't be assed with it so I'm jus' gon' go and cool off, let him do the same. I know how we work babe, we'll be fine." She hugged her friends and said bye to the guys as Drake lifted her bag into the car. Hopefully giving Safaree some space would clear the air a little.

"Can we go out tonight?"

"Sure, where'd you wanna go?"

"I'on know, surprise me!" She smiled widely as they pulled into Drake's Mom's driveway. He still lived with her but only for the fact that he'd just finished college, he was hoping to move out soon.

"Ard, I'll surprise you." He chuckled sweetly as he unbuckled himself. "You go get yourself inside, I'on think anyone's home, here's the key I'mma just get the bags out." Going their separate ways Nicki let herself inside as Drake followed with their duffels after getting them out of the trunk.

After unpacking their stuff they settled on the couch for while, just watching movies in between making out and sleeping. They wasted the whole day doing that only because they were tired and there wasn't much else to do. Noticing Nicki was asleep again with her head on his chest he was about to let himself doze off when he heard what sounded like a car pull up, his Mom was home. His Mom loved Nicki to pieces but she had a huge issue with her having only just turned sixteen and him now twenty. He was hoping that she would see how much he felt for Nicki, it was more than any other girlfriend he'd ever had.

"Oh, Aubrey you're home! Happy Birthday!" She smiled sweetly as she carried her bags through the door, she still had her midwife work uniform on.

"Yeah we been back a while, and thanks Mom." He looked over the couch as he whispered causing her to frown in confusion, she couldn't see Nicki laying on him and soon noticed as she walked over.

"Aww, she looks exhausted."

"Yeah we all stopped up pretty late last night watchin' movies and all that good stuff." He paused to look down as Nicki stirred slightly. "You need help cookin' dinner?"

"Oh, no don't worry about that. Thank you for offering though I should thank Nicki when she wakes up for bringing the best out of you!" She playfully scruffed up his hair and moved back into the kitchen to start making dinner. Sandi was right though, before Nicki was with Drake he was hanging out with all the wrong people doing all the wrong stuff. Constantly in trouble with the police and causing hassle for his Mother. But now, he was like the old Aubrey in fact maybe even better.

"Well don't do us a plate, I'm takin' Nic out to eat."

"Mkay, that works out then." She shouted back as she started running the kitchen tap. Not able to hear her he gently moved out from underneath Nicki and rested her head on a cushion to replace his chest.

"Whattya mean?"

"Well, promise not to cause a fuss Aubrey?"

"Aight, go on?" He raised his brow as he leant on the kitchen counter.

"Your father's coming over for dinner and I wanted it to just be me and him, y'know?" She waited for him to respond but he looked down and nodded slowly. "Aubrey say something, please?"

"I'on know what you want me to say Mom, the bastard left you pregnant and alone! I swear if Nicki, God forbid, was to get pregnant now there's no way in hell I'd leave her. Never."

"But there is no possibility of he getting pregnant, is there Aubrey?" She narrowed her eyes at him as he realised he'd probably just put his foot in it.

"No, of course not. I'm jus' sayin'...." He stopped and thought for a second seeing how hurt she looked. "Look, Mom, I want you to be happy and I guess if this is what's gon' do it then...I'm gon' accept that. But if he puts one toe outta line..." He trailed off and shook his head before hugging her.

"You really are a sweet boy, y'know that? Nicki's a lucky girl." She looked over in Nicki's direction but she was still out of sight as they figured she was still asleep.

"Nah, I'm the lucky one." He released her from the hug as he leant against the counter again. "Well I s'pose I better go wake her huh?"

"Oh, no don't do that. She obviously needs the rest and you can go out tomorrow night. Why don't you just get a take-out and chill in your room downstairs?" Drake turned quickly with a smirk on his face.

"Mom, did you just say chill?"

"Oh shush and get outta here would you!" She swatted him away with a tea towel as he went to get Nicki, carrying her downstairs effortlessly without waking her once.

Sitting on the edge of his bed he gently shook Nicki awake, she'd been sleeping for ages and the pizza had already been ordered and delivered.

"Babe? Wake up, food's ready."

"Huh?" She looked up at him grateful that he'd dimmed the lights to almost nothing because her eyes would have been overwhelmed by the brightness otherwise.

"The pizza's here, it's gon' go cold so you gotta eat some now." He smiled at how cute she looked as she sat up and yawned.

"Oh, what time is it?"

"Almost 8pm, why?"

"Woaaaah! I was sleep for that long?"

"Mmhm, you musta needed it. 'Specially after last night." He whispered the last part as he grazed his lips on the skin on her neck just below her ear lobe.

"Boy the pizza is for eatin'. Not me, now stop playin'." He pulled away laughing.

"Aight, my bad You don't mess around when it come to your food do you?"

"Hell fuckin' no!" She laughed some more before fanning herself. "Babe it's really hot in here."

"Oh? Would you like me to leave?"

"Boo, I'mma need you to take a seat." She spoke lowly as she glared at him.

"Yeah, but really though the heatin' system's fucked up, I don't stay in here part from when I'm sleepin' so usually I'm stripped down to my boxers."

"Word? So you just stroll around naked like it's nuffin?" She took a slice of pizza as he laughed again.

"Yep. You gon' do the same?"

"Boy I might have to, it's like, unbearable!"

"Don't let me interrupt the show." He licked his lips and moved the pizza box as she threw the comforter back and peeled her top off before doing the same to her bottoms. Clad in just her underwear she pulled the comforter back over her legs and stared at him.

"Well?"

"What?"

"Now you gotta get naked too. Don't be sittin' there thinkin' you can mind fuck me when I ain't got shit to stare back at in return!"

"Woah, calm baby. I'm gettin' there." Doing the same he settled under the comforter with her after throwing the empty pizza box further down the bed, there was one slice left.

"I want it Aubrey."

"Well so do I. So looks like we'll have to share it."

"Whatever, you can feed it to me though." He shook his head at her demanding attitude before slowly putting the pizza up to her mouth, letting her bite it slowly before shoving it all over the lower half of her face. "Aubrey! What the fuck? I coulda freakin' choked on a olive or somethin'!" He was now hysterical as she attempted to wipe all the sauce off of her face.

"No don't do that, I got it bae." Setting the slice down he gently grabbed her angry face and kissed her, smearing the sauce on to himself too before gently licking across her lips and letting her do the same to him. Keeping it up he moved lower and lower making her moan softly.

"Oh my God, Aubrey stop." She shut her eyes as he got to her chest but he wasn't listening. "Mmm, please?"

"Please what?" He detached himself from her right nipple as he looked at her flushed face.

"Stop it, I'm not abouta do this in your Mom's house Drake, you can think again."

"But the way you was just moanin' it really didn't sound like you wanted me to stop."

Suddenly hearing the door open they both flinched out of shock, sending the pizza box flying off of the bed as Nicki tried to pull the comforter back over her bare chest. Well, it wasn't completely bare but Drake had pushed her bra down to get access to her breasts.

....

*I'm super sorry for any errors or spelling mistakes or whatever! Hope this was good enough for Kellie's original idea! And thankyou so much to those who have commented! =]*


Monday 22 October 2012

3. The Very Start - Flashback


*All flashback chapters will say 'Flashback' in the post title just so you don't get confused, and this is the last chapter that Kellie typed so all chapters from now on are officially mine. I just wanna thank Kellie for handing this fic over to me, she's an amazing writer and I just hope I can live up to it!! Enjoy, this is my fave one she wrote by the way....Not cuz I'm a sex maniac or anything I just think it's cute!*

Safaree rolled his eyes at the pair of them, they'd been sat cuddling and kissing on the couch for most of the night. Standing up he announced to everyone that he was going to refill the popcorn bowl. Everyone being Nicki, Drake, Candi, Lauren, TT, Rex and Vince. They were staying over at his place for the weekend since his parents were away on holiday. Watching Drake and Nicki all evening was beginning to get on his nerves, he didn't think Drake was good enough for her and after all the shit she'd been though with her father he didn't want for her to get hurt anymore than she already had. Knowing that he was probably just acting too protective of her he then decided to go ahead and get more popcorn for them all before they put the next movie on.

"Faree could you grab me a water whilst you're up?"

"Sure, can one of y'all stick the next dvd on then?" He moved his eyes away from Nicki and to the rest of the group when Lauren offered and jumped up to do as he asked. He continued with his task at hand, leaving everyone talking as he moved into the kitchen.

"Why do we have to watch this? Y'all know I hate scary movies!" Candi looked over at Nicki as she spoke.

"You'll be fine Nic you got Drizzy sittin' by yo' side!"

"Mhm, she's right babe. I got'chu." He tightened his grip around her waist, pulling her closer as he pecked her lips momentarily. "But we don't have to watch it if you don't want though?"

"No, it's alright I'on wanna spoil your night babe. If I get freaked out I'll just stop watchin'." Snuggling into him some more she allowed one of her hands to venture beneath his shirt and lay soothingly across his sculpted abs. He returned a similar gesture by holding gently on to her wrist as it remained partially under his clothing. Returning from the kitchen Safaree tried to keep from scowling at the sight before him as he handed Nicki her water.

"Here, sorry it ain't real cool it hasn't been in the fridge."

"Thanks Faree." Reaching out for the bottle she soon settled in Drake's arms again. Lauren was still sat trying to get the movie to work when the menu volume blasted through the surround sound speaker system making them all jump.

"Holy shit!" The eight of them chimed in different reactions as TT screeched out. "Fuck! Lauren I just about freaking shit myself!"

"Hey! I'm sorry, ain't my fault SB got the damn sound on a million!" They all laughed and looked at Safaree as he resumed his seat on the couch with Rex, Vince and Candi. Lauren and TT were on the beanbags in front of their couch with Nicki and Drake occupying the separate couch on the other side of the room.

"M'kay y'all better shush now, it's startin'." Hotfooting it to the light switch Lauren cut the lights and leapt back on to her beanbag.

*** Forty Minutes Later ***

Burying her face into Drake's arm Nicki clutched on to him even more as yet another jumpy part was on the screen.

"You aight Nic?" Even though the volume was on full whack she still heard his gentle whisper.

Looking up at him in the dark she could see his eyes glistening from the TV light. "Mm, I'm good...."

"No you're not, you obviously ain't enjoyin' this. You wanna head upstairs?"

"Oh? And what do you have in mind for us to do up there?" She smirked as he wiggled his eyebrows. They'd never actually had sex before but they had done other things.

"Y'all better shut the fuck up or Imma come over there and do it for you!" They both giggled like naughty school kids at how angry SB sounded before Drake jumped up, pulling a lethargic Nicki with him.

"Ard, calm down we headin' upstairs now anyway." As soon as he'd opened his mouth everyone turned to look at them in the dark.

"If y'all are gettin' your freak on up there don't involve us, we don't wanna be sat down here listenin' to the moans and groans!"

"Candi shut the fuck up!" Nicki giggle whilst reaching over and snatching a couch pillow before throwing it roughly in her direction.

"Yo we can't fuckin' hear the damn movie!"

"Faree shush, we're goin' now." Before anyone else could contribute to the conversation the two of them darted upstairs, shutting the bedroom door behind them. They were staying in Nina's old room whilst Lauren, Candi and TT stopped in the guest room and Safaree and the guys in his room.

"Mmm I been dyin' to have you all to myself." Roughly pulling her into a kiss he let his hands roam over her body as she moaned quitely into his mouth.

She pulled away after a few seconds to talk slightly breathlessly. "Word?"

"Word." Continuing on he started kissing along her jawline, moving lower down on to her neck as he started pulling her shirt off. Soon enough she was stood before him in just her bra and the pink sweats she had on.

"My turn." Brushing her hands up inside his top she felt all up on his chest before snatching the material urgently over his head. He tended to his belt buckle as she finished yanking her sweats off. Picking her up he resumed kissing her lips as he lay her on the bed. "Mm Aubrey...Please...Don't stop?" She felt him disconnect his lips from hers briefly, but he was gravitating lower. Now lingering with his kisses on her chest her sat her a up a little in order to unclasp her bra. He loved the way her breasts were almost overflowing the laced fabric and how they bounced as soon as he removed the garment.

"I'm not, don't worry you gon' be beggin' me to stop soon. You'll see." He went back to planting kisses all over her soft skin, allowing his mouth to take in her right nipple he flicked his tongue over it playfully, causing her to shut her eyes and let out a slow moan. He felt her moving under him as her own hand connected with her left breast, her actions mimicking his movements. They stayed like this for a minute or so before he moved lower, kissing, sucking and nipping at her skin all the way down from her chest to the top of her thong. "You ready babe?"

"Uhh, yesss!" It came out as half whisper half moan but he heard nonetheless and showed no hesitation in pulling her thong down over her thick thighs. He loved every inch of her body and he was about to show her how much. Starting from her ankle he kissed all the way up her leg before switching and doing the same to the other, he could hear her pants intensifying as he got closer to her centre. "Ohh." Sucking air through her teeth she let out a series of words. "Stop. Teasing me." but before she could even attempt to say any more he licked her slowly making her instantly fix her hands on his head, holding him there as he repeated the same action. She was already soaking wet as he flicked his tongue faster over her clit making her moan out even louder.

Pulling away for a split second he held his finger to his lips. "Nicki, baby you gotta be quiet."

"Mmm I'm tryin' but you're fuckin' tongue game is so damn good." She started teasing her own nipples again as she waited for him to bury his face between her thighs once more. This time he did it with more intention, hardening the tip of his tongue he drew circles over her clit. Keeping up the rhythm he kept at it as her legs started to shake. "Uhh! I'm...I'm c-c-" She didn't get to finish her sentence as a wave of heat and pleasure coursed through her entire body. Licking up her juices her took his position back hovering over her tiny frame. She was still panting and her arms lay limply above her head, she'd obviously been grasping on to the bars on the headboard as her climax had become intense.

"You taste so good." Smiling devilishly her planted his lips on hers letting her taste herself during the process. "You wanna go shower?"

"Nup, it's my turn now boy." Sitting up she swapped places with him and pushed his back up to the headboard before sitting herself between his legs. He was still wearing his Calvin Klein's but she soon saw to that as she peeled them off.

"Nicki, babe you don't have to do th-"

"Shhh. I want to. You pleased me, now I wanna do the same for you." That's what she loved about him, he never once pressured her to do anything she didn't want. Ever. But now she wanted to take the next step, they'd been dating for almost nine weeks and he'd given her head a few times but that's as far as they'd got sexually. All that was about to change tonight though, and they'd picked the best time as their friends were sat with their eyes glued to the TV screen with the sound up to the max. Smiling sweetly she stroked the length of his penis caressing the tip before leaning down and kissing it briefly. She heard him draw in a breath and looked up to see if she was doing it right but his head was tilted back, his eyes were shut and his hands holding firmly on to his scalp. Continuing with the gentle strokes she decided to get a little more daring and tugged slightly at his fully erect dick. His throaty groan let her know he liked what she was doing, slowly moving her head lower she took the tip into her mouth and sucked ever so slightly before taking more of him into her. It was going to be a struggle seeing as he had a good nine and a half inches on him and he was thick.

"Oh..Fuck Nicki!" He tried to stop his movement but the urge to thrust overtook his mind as he gently took her head into his hands, guiding her mouth over his penis. He couldn't believe she was actually doing this for him. And then she deep throated him, taken completely by surprise he tried to suppress his groans but she could feel them in his chest as she stretched her hands up to rub on him. As his whole body stiffened he pulled at her hair he'd balled into his fists. "Nic...Babe, I'm 'bouta...B-bust." But she didn't stop. "Nic...Now! I'm gon'-" She felt his hands pulling at her some more and moved away from him, wiping her mouth as he came on the bed sheets. After regaining his composure he went to kiss her and lay her back under him. The way she was staring at him he could tell she was seeking his approval. "That. Was. Amazin'." He uttered between sweet kisses.

"I'm ready."

He stopped kissing her immediately and peered down at her innocent face. "You sure? I'm not pressurin' you am I?"

"I'm positive and no you're not pressurin' me babe, I want you." He closed his eyes in mild bliss as he felt her small hand wrap around his penis. "But is it gonna hurt?"

"I'm not gon' lie. Yes it will...But I'll be gentle and as soon as it gets to much tell me and I swear I'll stop, kay?"

She nodded nervously as she removed her hand from him and placed them instinctively on his lower back. "Wait! We haven't got a condom." She attempted to move but his weight stopped her.

"I'll pull out. I promise." She wasn't sure at first but looking into his eyes she trusted him. He wasn't a virgin but she obviously was and even though he was almost 19 and she was only 16 they were perfect for one another on so many levels. Apart from Safaree, Drake was the only person who fully understood her and knew all about her awful past. Snapping back from her deep thoughts she felt him pressing against her centre. "You sure you're ready?"

"Mhm, just do it." He felt awful for what she was about to endure as she winced in preparation for his penetration. Slowly he started to push into her. "Ahh, shit Drake!" Slapping her hands flimsily onto his chest he stopped immediately and started kissing all over her face apologetically.

"You want me to stop?"

"....No...I'm fine just, keep going." She opened her eyes slowly and stared up at him, he could tell she was hurting and truthfully the burning sensation of him stretching her was the most pain she'd ever felt. Gradually he started to push into her more and more, feeling how tight she was he was guessing she was probably holding back the tears but looking up he saw them already staining her face.

"Nah, Nic I'm gon' stop-"

"No! No, you can't you're almost there, please just keep goin'?" Allowing her hands to travel up to the sides of his face he reluctantly agreed and forced his way even further in until his entire length was inside her. He'd reached her barrier and now came the worst part for her. Bracing herself she nodded shakily letting him know he could go. He kissed her again before thrusting powerfully, he'd done it, he'd got through her barrier but her crying out caused him to avert his attention back to her as he kissed her neck lovingly, he didn't stop stroking into her though. Starting off slowly and gently he let her get used to the rhythm and soon enough she was pulling her hips up to meet his thrusts. "Oh...Aubrey! Mmm that feels....So, good! Uh!"

"Shhh, we gotta stay quiet remember?" He was struggling to hold back his own groans of pleasure. She was beyond tight and the grip she had on him right now was driving him wild. Trying to remain gentle with her he carefully grabbed her leg and pulled it up and over his forearm, letting it rest there as he angled himself to hit her g-spot. Repeatedly hitting it she muffled her screams into a pillow as she let go of his back and held the fluffy cushion on to her face.

"Uhh, I'm gonna c-c....Aubrey I'm c-" Her breathless moans turned into pants as her breathing quickened and her toes curled. Throwing her head back he buried his face into her neck, nipping at her skin affectionately. He felt her body tense up and she became silent, her brow furrowing as she climaxed. Letting her juices flow over his dick he continued to pump into her, he was about to come too and quickly pulled out of her just in time, again releasing himself on to the bed sheets. Collapsing next to her he grabbed her hand and kissed it repeatedly as she ran her free hand over her torso which was beaded with sweat. All that could be heard was their heavy breathing whilst they lay closely to one another trying to regain their energy and cool off.

"You wanna go shower now?" She couldn't answer for how exhausted she was but he saw her eyes connect with his as she nodded. Slowly getting up he hopped off the bed first and turned around to pick her up.

"Oh no..."

"What?" He stopped and looked at her worriedly as she stared down at herself, there was blood staining her inner thighs and the perfectly white bedsheets. "Oh shit, you kay?"

"No, it really hurts." Tenderly touching herself he pulled her hands away and picked her up gently.

"That's normal babe, y'know that right?"

"Yeah." She looked down as he carried on making their way to Nina's en-suite bathroom.

"Shower or bath?"

She pondered for a minute, she really didn't feel like standing but waiting for the bath to run seemed worse. "Shower." Placing her down cautiously he sorted out the temperature as she leant against the sink counter. She had her legs crossed tight, it was still burning but she didn't want to seem pathetic so held back the tears. How long was this supposed to last for?

"Mkay, how's that feel?" He let her stretch her hand in to feel the water temperature, it was perfect. Noticing she was still bleeding he helped her carefully step into the shower after him. He hated seeing her hurting but he knew it would stop soon. Taking his time he washed her tentatively before she did the same for him, he could tell she was ready to go to sleep even though it was only 9pm.

Once they were all showered up he let her get settled in bed before heading downstairs to get them both some water. Thankfully the others were all acting too noisily to notice him slip into the kitchen. they were playing on the Wii. As soon as he was back upstairs he saw her snuggled up under all the covers, she wasn't asleep yet.

"You okay babe?"

"Mm, just tired so hurry up and come lay wit'me." He laughed at her being demanding as she tried to keep her eyes open. Knocking the light off he set their waters on the night stand and climbed into bed with her. As soon as he was securely under the covers he felt her shuffling closer to him and re-take her usual sleeping spot, safely nestled chest to chest with him. Having her face resting in the crook of his and her head laying on one arm as he lay the other protectively over her waist. He'd never felt like this about anyone before and knew they'd be together for a very long time, if not forever. Before long she was fast asleep and heading the same way he kissed her head lightly and allowed sleep to take over. "Thank you Aubrey." Opening his eyes again he smiled down at her whispering.

"You don't have to thank me Onika." Smiling tiredly back at him she kissed him once more prior to getting comfortable again and drifting back to sleep with him soon following.

2. Olive Branch


As soon as she picked up Aubree from her neighbour she headed back into her cold apartment. Why didn't she just ask him? He was right there in front of her. Shaking her head at her stubbornness she carefully moved through to Aubree's room and lay her sleeping daughter gently into her crib. It was a fairly big crib but she wanted to get her a proper bed with the safety railings on it. If she had the money she would. As she moved back from tucking her in she felt her stomach growl, she didn't know how much longer she could hold this up. After watching Aubree sleep for a while she turned her light off and shut the door a little behind her making sure that some light still got into her room. This was what she couldn't stand the most. The silence. As soon as Aubree was down for a nap or in bed she was on her own again. Being forced back into memories of him being here with them. Making her laugh and playing with Aubree until she fell asleep in his arms. Turning the shower on she was pulled from her thoughts hearing a knock on he door. Quickly shutting the water off and grabbing her robe she threw it on as she put the chain across the door and opened it a crack. It was him.

"Nic? Please, let me in. We need to talk." She didn't answer and looked down, thinking about it. She really wanted to let him in but after what he did she was finding it hard to give in so easily. "Please? I brought food, it's your favourite, see?" He held up the takeout bag as his eyes remained locked with hers. He was right, it was her favourite and she was starving. Slowly giving in she tightened her robe and opened the door.

"You can't stay long, I wanna go to sleep." He sighed as he shut the door behind himself, he knew he'd have to prepare for this kind of attitude. But that was his fault.

"That's fine. I just wanna talk." He smiled and set the carrier bags down on the counter. "Shit Nic, it's fuckin' freezin' in here!" Rubbing his bare arms he saw her shift uncomfortably and look down. "Here lets get stuck into this, might warm us up." Reaching into the bag he pulled out Nicki's food and then his own as she grabbed them some cutlery before leading them over the couch.

"So?" She spoke up first, disturbing the silence.

"So, what?"

"Don't play wit' me SB. What did you come here for?" She took another spoonful of rice into her mouth as he sat forward on the couch opposite her.

"I came to apologise actually."

"Oh? And you think an apology and cheap ass take out is gon' fix what you fucked up?" Her venomous words cascaded over him as he shook his head in disbelief.

"Wow. And here I was thinkin' you'd actually act grown 'bout this Nicki! Shit, how wrong was I?" He stood up and threw his takeout carton into the bin. "Aight, don't say I didn't try. I'm outta here-"

"No! No wait! Please, don't go?" He frowned in confusion at how fast she jumped up. "I'm sorry, please just...Don't leave me." Looking into her tearful eyes he exhaled calmly before sitting back down where he was before as she gently sat next to him.

"You gon' hear me out this time?" Receiving a shy nod he continued talking. "As I was sayin', I came to apologise. I see you starin' in at me on your way home every night and I know you don't know I can see you. But I can. And every night I wanna go out and apologise like I am now but it's taken me this damn long to actually do it." He wasn't looking at her as she stayed silent next to him.

"You really hurt me Faree. When I needed you of all people, you weren't there."

"I know and I'm sorry for that! Really I am, if I could take back what I did I would. I should've been there for you. Both of you." He gently grabbed her hand and smiled weakly when she didn't pull away.
"I'm here now though and I promise you I'm not leavin' this time, you're my best friend and I'll always be here for you, from now on." Kissing the back of her hand he pulled her closer and kissed her forehead as she rested into him. Honestly she wanted to scream, yell and cuss at him but as soon as he had hold of her everything just washed away. They stayed silent for a while as he held on to her, but soon he broke the silence.

"When was the last time you saw him?"

"A few months ago. He doesn't wanna see me, or Aubree." Her voice hitched as she tried to force the tears back.

Pulling away he stared down at her tired, sad face. "What?" The confusion laced his short question.

"He told Sandi that he doesn't want us vistin' him anymore. He said it wasn't fair for any of us. What kind of fuckin' excuse is that?!" She pulled her sleeve over her hand and wiped her teary face. "Ughh, I'm sorry. You only just came back and you're hearin' me go on 'bout him already."

"Hey, don't apologise. You have the right to be mad....Y'know when he gets out yet?" He was treading carefully with his questions.

"No, I haven't heard anythin'." She sighed and turned her head in the direction of Aubree's room hearing her cries. "Hold on, I'll be back." She pulled her robe back over her shoulders some more and headed into her room. She was stood holding on to the crib railings as she cried. "Hey baby, what's that matter?" She reached in and pulled up her inconsolable child. After rocking her for a minute she sat her gently on her hip and moved back out to the lounge area. She saw Safaree looking at Aubree intently.

"She's so big now! Last time I seen her she was like this big!" He motioned with his hands as Nicki carefully sat Aubree down on the couch wrapping a little pink blanket around her. "Yeah, I can't believe she's two already. Like, where'd the time go?" Rubbing her small cheek she stepped back watching Safaree look at her some more. "I'm just gon' go get her a bottle."

                                                                                ***

A couple hours passed and Aubree was fast asleep again, snuggled up into Nicki's side.

"She looks like you y'know?" He brought his eyes back up to her face as he spoke.

"Really? Everyone says she looks more like Drake."

"Nah, she definitely looks more like her Mom. I mean you can tell he's her father, but she definitely resembles you more. For sure." He stopped as he watched her admiring the tiny toddler. "I know it's gon' take time for you to completely forgive me but we'll get there, I know it." They stared at one another for a split second, he could tell she was hurt but they needed each other. Her more than him at the moment. Just as she was about to reply all the lights cut out, plunging them into darkness causing Safaree to speak without thinking. "The fuck?"

"Shit." He heard Nicki's whisper as she gently moved herself away from a still sleeping Aubree. A couple of minutes later she returned with a torch. "I haven't paid the bill." Running her spare hand through her hair she exhaled deeply and sat down looking defeated.

"I didn't know things were that bad." He chewed on his lip as he thought for a minute. "Y'know there's a room goin' spare at my place if you wanna-"

"No, no I couldn't do that. I'll be fine I just-"

"Nicki, think about Aubree. Pretend you're not really doin' this for yourself." He knew how stubborn she was and this seemed like the only way to get her to agree. He'd noticed how barren her cupboards were earlier when he went to get them some glasses. As he continued to study her face in the torch light he saw her staring down at Aubree.

"How much do you want a week?"

"Don't act silly, it's nothin'. I need some company anyhow and I'm not abouta take no for an answer so, come on." He stood up carefully and took the torch with him leaving her in the dark until she whispered out his name, turning back to face her he shone the torch at her face. "Well? You comin' or what?" She couldn't believe the drastic turn of events, not long ago he was about to leave her in a mess, for the second time. And now? She had somehow agreed to move in with him without even opening her mouth. He knew she was crumbling because she didn't scream, shout or verbally abuse him. After what he did he deserved all of those things but it was like she'd lost her fight, hence her lack of protest about him coming into her home and just kind of demanding she come live with him. Aubree was the only reason she was doing all of this and he knew that. But at least she was agreeing, right? He watched her scoop the small child up and walk towards him with her tiny head resting on her shoulder as the rest of her body laying over her chest.

"Here, could you please take her? I needa go get her stuff." Without hesitating he took her little body into his arms. She was a deep sleeper he thought as he let her take the torch and waited patiently. Reappearing minutes later she had a large baby bag, a carrier seat and she'd changed her clothes. She was wearing Drake's hoodie which made him a cringe a little but he shrugged it off.

"You ready?" She nodded and followed him out of the door, looking back at her he noticed her struggling to carry everything. "Here, I'll swap you." Cautiously taking Aubree back into her arms she smiled at him as a thank you gesture. She was kind of relieved to be honest. Too tired to argue with him she was finding it in her heart to try and forgive him, he obviously wanted to repair their friendship and so did she. She missed him.

1. Lost Hope


Walking down the rain spotted sidewalk Nicki shouted out for the elderly man to hold the door for her. As usual she was ignored. Huffing frustratedly she did a circle with her daughter’s stroller and entered through the bank doors backwards. Suited men and women stared at her as she proceeded to move further into the building, she honestly didn’t blame them as she caught sight of her reflection in the pristine windows. Although it was miserable, rainy and dark outside everyone else still managed to stay dry and well kept but the wind had destroyed her earlier tied up hair into a dripping mess. She was grateful for the fact that her two year old daughter Aubree was sleeping in her stroller though, otherwise she’d fear her grumpy antics would bring more attention to them. As she approached the teller desk she started to fumble around with her bag, placing her card and ID on the counter. Hoping that some money would be there for her to have.

“Just a balance inquiry today ma’am?” The young man took her card as he clicked mindlessly away at his computer.

“Uhm, yes thank you.” Studying his facial expression she saw his eyes scanning the screen before typing extremely fast.

“I’m sorry, there doesn’t seem to be any credit in that account. Were you expecting to see some?” He looked at her, but her mind was blank. “Ma’am?”

“Sorry?”

“I asked if you were expecting to see this account with a balance larger than zero?”

“No, never mind…Thank you for your time anyway.” She tried to keep the disappointment from showing on her face but by the sympathetic look he was giving her she knew he’d seen. Without another word he slid her belongings back to her through the hole in the window.

How could this be happening? Things were so perfect not long ago, in fact they were the best they’d ever been. But now, she couldn’t even pay her own bills. Looking down at Aubree she leant over and pulled her little pink coat tighter around her small body, she shivered herself with only the inadequate shelter of the bus stop keeping them dry. The bus was running late and she had no idea how she was supposed to make them something to eat for dinner. Maybe it was time to swallow her pride? For her daughter’s sake.

                                                                             ***


Riding the bus home gave Nicki time to think as she sat watching Aubree sleep. She couldn’t wait until her car was fixed so they could stop using public transport, it was such a hassle especially with the stroller. Money had always been scarce since she had Aubree, she was only sixteen when she got pregnant and now at eighteen years old she was living in a crummy apartment alone with her two year old child. Kicked out by her father she had no other choice, it’s not like her mother was going to stand up to him. She snapped out of her daze when she saw Aubree stirring, thankfully they were almost at their stop. 

It was dark and cold as she pulled her key out of the door, pushing it open with her butt as she pulled the stroller through backwards. Her shift at Red Lobster started in less than an hour and she still had to find something for them to eat, bathe Aubree and take her to the apartment next door. Connie was a middle-aged woman and always took care of Aubree whenever Nicki was working. She didn’t charge her for babysitting either, Nicki figured it was probably some company for her. Shutting the door behind her she bent down to un-strap Aubree before securing the toddler on her hip.

“You hungry baby?” There wasn't much of a response as she just yawned and lay her head back on Nicki's shoulder. She looked so much like her father sometimes, it was scary. Pushing the stroller to the side of the door she skilfully grabbed her purse and Aubree's day bag from the handles and set them on the counter. "Well ladybug let's go get you all ready to go see Connie huh?" She bounced her a little as they made their way to the bathroom. She hated leaving her every night but this was her only source of income and besides which if Aubree was next door Nicki knew she'd be warm, safe and hunger free. Unlike herself at the moment, this was the second day she'd gone without a scrap of food. Hopefully she'd be able to sneak a few fries at work when nobody was looking or something.

After bathing and dressing Aubree in her all-in-one pyjamas they stood waiting at Connie's door. She was taking forever as Nicki tapped her foot impatiently and brushed off her uniform a couple of times. Finally the door opened.

"Hello Onika, and Aubree." She moved forward as Nicki returned the greeting and handed a reluctant Aubree over.

"Thanks for doin' this, she's already bathed and been fed so she shouldn't be too much trouble. Right baby?" She kissed her little cheek before stepping back out of the doorway.

"Oh don't mention it! She gets herself a lil' worked up when you're leavin' but as soon as you're outta sight she's fine." Nicki smiled gratefully before kissing Aubree one more time and leaving. She was almost fifteen minutes late, again.

Slipping through the doors quickly she tried to remain discreet but a stone faced Lauren stormed past her.

"Nic you betta hurry ya ass up! She already been lookin' for you! I told you I can't cover for you like this every shift!" She toned down her voice seeing how dishevelled her friend looked before talking again, this time more softly. "Look I know you're goin' through some shit I know nothin' 'bout right now but please...Just promise me you'll look after yourself?" Feeling Lauren's warm hand on her shoulder she nodded solemnly and made her way through to the kitchen. Candi was waiting on the other side and embraced her in a huge hugafter hearing everything. "You'll get through this babe and if not for yourself you'll do it for Bree. I know you will." Nicki smiled thinking about her. She really was the best thing in her life and always would be. 

Luck must have been on her side that night as Kelise never noticed her tardy entrance nor did she come patrolling the kitchen barking orders at her. Saying bye to Candi and Lauren she let out a long sigh as she pushed the swinging doors open and felt the cold air hit her. She hated walking home in the dark, another reason she couldn't wait until her car was repaired. It wasn't a long walk thankfully and she performed her usual mindless walking as she scanned the darkened windows of each shop, stopping at the only one on the street that still had it's lights on. He was still in there, packing boxes and tidying up. Wrapping her arms around herself some more she walked closer to the window seeing her breath ice up in front of her as it hit the cool air. He never usually noticed her drive past in her car but this time he caught the movement and brought his head up. Suddenly panicking she shook herself out of the awkward eye contact and continued walking home at a faster pace but she heard the store's door open followed by faster footsteps.

"Nicki?" His voice sounded so soft against the background noise of faraway traffic and distant sirens. "Onika, why do you do that?" That question stopped her as she turned around to face his direction, still not uttering a word back to him he walked closer to her. "Why do you always look in at me on your way home? I see you every night doin' the same thing. Why?" He threw the white towel in his hands over his shoulder as she still refused to speak.

"Please, I can't do this right now Safaree." Her quiet words washed over him as she folded her arms tighter and shook her head walking away, leaving him stood there. It had been two years since he'd heard that voice, two years since he'd even been that close to her.