Free I'd Rather Be Single 2 by LaShonda DeVaughn Page B

smile stretched across my face. It was just about the first smile I flashed all day, after Stax’s bullshit. Courtney's gesture was so thoughtful. I found it sexy that he was worried about me.
    Sure babe, bring me some Spicy crab rolls.
    Okay, I’ll be there in an hour.
    I text ed him my apartment number and tossed my phone down. I stared around the living room, aggravated by all of Dalia’s clothes scattered on the couch and floor. I bunched them all in a pile, and threw them in her room. I washed the dishes and sprayed Lysol in the air. I took a shower and put on a violet thong and lace bra. I was anxious to spend the night alone with Courtney. It was much needed.
    Afte r the house was up to par, I tied my robe tight and lay on the couch, waiting for my man to arrive. I felt myself dosing off, and when I woke up, I was frantic because it was the next day and I was running late for work. I scurried into my room, pulled out my scrubs and tossed them on. I left a text message on Dr. Raphael’s cell to let her know that I’d be in soon. I called a cab since my car window was fucked up and gave the cab driver directions for the shortest route to work.
    I barged into the office and noticed Dalia was already there.
    “Your shift isn’t until 10 . What are you doing here so early?” I asked her, placing my purse on my side of the desk.
    “Seary went to work out this morning , so I had him drop me off early. I know that you’re not mobile right now, because of your car window, so I decided to come in early just in case you didn’t make it in time. I let Dr. Raphael know that I was covering for you.”
    I sat in my chair , relieved. “I appreciate that, thanks D.”
    “Mm m hmm.” She scrolled her mouse over her pink mouse pad, not taking her eyes off the screen. It was apparent that she was still mad.
    “ Listen, I apologize for taking the whole car situation out on you, but I hope you understand where I’m coming from.”
    “It’s cool. I’m sorry too.” she said.
    I really did feel bad, because it wasn’t her fault. She couldn't control what her ex was doing, but I just felt like I was getting the sharp end of the stick when it came to that nigga. I knew he was an unsavory character when I first met him, but I'd never have thought he would pull off all the dumb shit he was doing. But Dalia was my girl, and I couldn’t stay mad at her. I stood her up and gave her a hug. It was thoughtful of her to have my back, and besides, she was becoming more and more like a sister. Shit like this just made us closer. All of our misunderstandings were usually talked out and swept under the rug, so this was no different. At the end of the day, we needed each other and we made a great team.
    Dr. Raphael walked up on us. “Tyra, it was very responsible of you to have Dalia cover your shift when you knew you’d be late. It was a mad house in here . As soon as we opened the doors, we had four walk-ins.”
    “Thanks Dr. Raphael, I try to stay on top of things.” I said, pretending to have shit under control.
    Dalia flashed a smile my way and I winked at her.
    All the morning commotion had me forgetting that I was stood up by Court. There was not a single message or missed call on my phone from him , explaining himself, and I was pissed.
    What happened to you last night? I texted him.
    I swear three hours went by before he texted me back , because I had forgotten that I had texted him in the first place.
    He finally responded. My fault babe, I fell asleep.
    I scrunched my face at his wack excuse and I tossed my phone across the desk.
    “Girl , what’s wrong with you?” Dalia asked.
    “Nothing.” I couldn't hide the attitude in my tone.
    My phone vibrated again, and I reached over to pick it up.
    Sorry babe, I’ll make it up to you tonight. He sent back.
    I had no words for Courtney. The games were now beginning to get old , and he had the wrong bitch. He kept sending question marks and I decided to turn off my phone and