Free Black by T.l Smith Page B

not like he’s insinuated that he wants more. Actually, he’s the exact opposite—silent and emotionless.
    “You like him?” Casey asks as she walks in, watching me stare at my phone. I didn’t even realize she was home.
    “Who?” I ask, playing dumb.
    “Don’t who me, girly. I can see it.” Her eyes scan my face like she’s making a point.
    “He’s an enigma,” I say, more to myself than to her.
    “Sax says he’s bad and he doesn’t do what you’re after. Don’t force anything, Rose, you’re just getting better… getting your life back on track.”
    “He’s just misunderstood,” I say, standing and getting ready to leave for work.
    “You’re looking good, Rose.” I smile at her and make my way out the door. I feel better, more weight is starting to appear on my body, and my face is beginning to clear up. I can feel my willpower growing stronger. I haven’t caved, I haven’t touched any of that stuff for almost a solid month. It’s been hard, but worth it.
    Work is busy when I enter, it’s the afternoon shift. Families come in with their kids, people getting off work stop by for something sweet. I haven’t seen many people I once knew, but that doesn’t surprise me. They’re the wealthy types, not people to come out and mingle in an ice cream shop. Which is why I was surprised to see Roger in here a few weeks ago.
    The doorbell rings loudly and two police officers walk through. One of them has come in every time I’ve had a shift. He always smiles at me and is polite every time. Though he never makes conversation. I watch as they stop near the door, his friend nudges him and he shakes his head. He’s cute, handsome if you like. The uniform making him that much more attractive. The way his pants cling to his toned ass and the belt with the gun and Taser firmly attached. He looks completely different from Black, his hair is lighter, almost sandy blond, and he’s clean shaven. But his smile is very warming, whereas Black’s is sinister.
    I have no idea why I’m comparing?
    “Rose,” his voice startles me. I must have looked like an idiot, daydreaming right in front of him, just staring at him. His partner sits down on the seat near the door, while Officer Burk stands in front of me, warming me with his smile.
    “Officer, what can I get ya today?” I ask as nicely as possible, a slight blush taking over his cheeks. He looks down to the floor and back up to me. His shyness is sweet, so different to me and what I’m used to. I’m not shy, far from it. I’ve seen the bad, felt the bad. Not much makes me blush anymore. My skin has grown thick, thicker than it should be for a woman my age.
    “Actually…” his hand reaches up and he scratches the back of his head. His hair is short, and I can’t help but smile at him. “I was wondering what time you finish? And if you’d like to grab a bite to eat?” To say I’m shocked would be an understatement. I don’t think anyone has actually asked me out or taken me on a date for more than four years. After Roger, which there was no dating involved, I was on the streets in drug houses, clubhouses, anything. Now a handsome police officer is asking me out. One I could use to my advantage potentially. Except I wouldn’t want to do that. I know what it’s liked to be used and abused, to have your heart shattered. I’d never do that to anyone.
    “I get off at seven…” I trail off and smile at him. He releases a deep breath and smiles in return.
    “I’ll meet you here then?” I give him a simple nod and he walks to his friend who smiles at me as they leave.
    The shift drags, and by the time the clock finally hits seven I’m over it. Officer Burk walks through the door, right on time. He’s dressed up, nice jeans on his legs, and a dress shirt with a collar. I’m still dressed in my candy stripe uniform. I grab my bag and walk out to the front of the counter. His smile is big and bright and his teeth are perfect.
    “Sorry, couldn’t