Chapter 24 - Windy City

A/N Warning: This chapter contains mature themes & themes of self harm, depression, and suicide.

A/N P.S: We're at over 7k views??!!! What?! Thank you so much to everyone who reads and interacts with this story. Just for that I need to give you all an EXTRA long chapter. 🤧🤎

Sadé's POV:

— Saturday The 24th, Chicago

I woke up to light snores from Marshall, whose arm was wrapped tightly around me. I gently, but firmly, moved his arm to get out of his grasp to get ready. I don't want to make him up so I tried to be as quiet as possible. When I was finally free, I made my way to the bathroom where I took my morning tinkle, brushed my teeth and began my relaxing shower. I should definitely film a shower routine or show everyone what products I use since a lot of my supporters have been asking me for that type of content. During my shower, I used the calming Dove beauty bar soap to get all the base dirt and body oils off my body. I then lathered my body with the Native vanilla cupcake body wash, exfoliated with the Tree Hut vanilla body scrub and repeated with the body wash again. I didn't need to shave since I get full body waxes every two to three weeks. Once I got out the shower, I did my skincare routine of washing my face, adding my daily face moisturizer, toner, and face oil. After that, I applied some body oils and the native vanilla cupcake body lotion. I love self care, skincare, and I take my showers very seriously so this was my normal routine. I slipped on a robe and promptly did my hair and makeup.

Once I was all done in the bathroom almost two hours later, I went back into the bedroom to get changed for the day. Marshall was still sound asleep when I returned. That man is seriously knocked out, huh. I decided on a soft white long sleeve dress because it was officially the last day of summer and tomorrow would be fall. So I wanted to take any last advantages of the semi-warm weather. I'd decide on what shoes and accessories I'd pair with it later. I spritzed on some Dolce & Gabbana The Only One perfume that Marshall and gotten me for my birthday before heading to the kitchen to make some breakfast.

I wasn't going to make anything too much, just something light since I had planned for Marshall and I to go out later. I turned on Kendall Rae's true crime podcast, and started cooking. I whipped together eggs, Parmesan, bacon, salt, pepper, a few basic seasonings and chives before putting them in the oven. I had decided that this morning, I'd make Bacon Parmesan & Chive Egg clouds. It's basically like fluffy eggs, but it's so delicious! I also made a tropical fruit salad since the eggs alone probably wouldn't fill us up. It consisted of watermelon, red & white dragon fruit, mango, papaya, pineapple, kiwi, banana, fresh squeezed lime juice, drizzled honey, and coconut flakes.

"Need me to help you cook?" Marshall's deep morning voice boomed, taking my focus off the podcast.

"No, I just finished." I replied, plating our food, "How was your sleep?"

He was still in his grey sweats, no shirt on, like he had been last night. Lord save me.

"It was so good. That's the best sleep I've had in a while if I'm being real. I think it's something about your bed." He said as he took a seat, taking a sip of his orange juice.

"Mhmm. I could tell. Maybe it's the silk sheets." I replied as we both ate.

"Or maybe it was just you. But that too." He flirted, shrugging.

"Maybe." I winked at him, flirting back.

We ate in comfortable silence for a few minutes before I spoke up again.

"So... I have something planned for us today." He looked up at me from across the kitchen island table, waiting for me to continue.

"We're going out in the city so that you can get a feel of Chicago." He opened his mouth to say something, but I started talking again before he could get the chance, " Aht Aht, and before you even start, I already hired security and called the places ahead of time to close up so that we would be secluded and you'd feel safe slash comfortable, Mr.Hollywood." I finished.

I already knew what he was going to say about going out with no security and possibly getting seen by paparazzi. However, I already thought it all through while I was in the shower and called up the necessary people while I was getting ready this morning. I knew he wouldn't go anywhere if I hadn't. It's just something that comes with his fame and status. He's a way bigger celebrity than I am. I can walk around freely for the most part (sometimes I will need security) whereas that's something he can never really do unless he goes incognito. It's something I'll have to accept if we're ever going to date... I mean hang out. If we're ever going to hang out.

"Yo, calling me Mr.Hollywood is crazy. Ms.Boujee." He laughed, causing me to fake gasp, "But ight. I trust you and it seems like you took care of everything. So what are we going to do?"

"So I'm going to start off by showing you my hood. Ya know, where I grew up and spent most of my life so you can really see all of the Windy City for what it is, not just what people want you to see. Then we're going to eat some deep dish pizza and Italian beefs because that's a Chicago food staple. Then after that we'll end the day with a surprise..." I smirked.

"Alright, cool. I'm actually pretty stoked." He nodded his head as he took the last bite of his food.

I grabbed both of our dishes, placing them in the dishwasher. I felt arms snake around my torso when I finished. I felt Marshall begin to leave little kisses along my jawline and neck. I sucked in a breath of air from the pleasant feeling.

"Mhmmm. You smell so good. That perfume suits you well. And so does this dress." He stated, pressing his front to my back.

"Thank you." I said suddenly, feeling shy.

"No; Thank you for the breakfast, Pretty girl. I'm always thankful for when you cook your amazing food for me." He said in between kisses, "One day I'll show you how thankful I really am." He said as he grabbed a handful of my ass.

He was talking in that same low, husky tone. It was extremely sexy, and such a turn on. He knew what he was doing. If he wants to play that game, let's play. He backed away, apparently done teasing me, so that he could go get ready for the day. Nope.

I grabbed his arm as he started walking way, bringing him back to me. I felt a sense of courage now.

"What's wrong, Sae?"

"Shh. You're talking too much right now." I whispered in his ear, stretching my body to reach.

His eyes went slightly wide as he cocked his eyebrow.

"What do you - " he started, I licked his neck, making goosebumps appear, "Shit, baby." He shakily breathed out.

I made direct eye contact with him as i made him lean his back against the counter. I began kissing down his body, starting with his chest, making my way down to his belly button, to his lower abdomen. I raked my acrylic nails down his toned torso as I continued lower. I licked his rot in pieces tattoo, sucking to make sure I would leave a mark.

He never took his eyes off of me, licking his lips from time to time. I palmed him through his sweatpants.

"Tell me what you want, Marshall."

He closed his eyes, letting out a moan.

"Don't you always say to use your words? Use them."

"Sadé. I want you. Stop teasing me."

That alone was all I needed to hear. I pulled his sweatpants down along with his boxers. His dick sprang free, hitting his stomach. I licked my hand before I started to slowly and agonizingly stroke him.

He must've forgotten who I was. Or that he was the one who decided to tease me first. He thought he could walk away scot free? Nah, I'll make sure he pays the price. This is also a little payback from last night.

"Sadé." He said sternly.

"Hmm?" I looked up at him innocently with my big brown eyes.

"Stop teasing me."

"Awh. No can do, love." I said as I started leave kisses all on the base of his erect dick.

His moans only grew louder.

"I'm serious." I licked the tip of dick, sucking all the precum off, "OH fuck."

I continued kitten licking him, watching as he grew more frustrated.

"I swear to fuck, Sae. I'm - "

"Didn't I tell you that you talk too much? Why are you speaking?" I asked, stopping all movements.

"No no no. Okay, I'll do whatever. Just...fuck." He grunted out.

I decided that was enough messing with him. So I took his hardened dick into my mouth, hollowing my cheeks and sucking. He moaned out, throwing his head back. His hands immediately flew to my hair.

I bobbed my head up and down at a steady pace, my hands stroking whatever couldn't fit in my mouth. My glossed lips shined as they were wrapped around his manhood as I continued to give him head. About a minute later he grew close. I knew this because he had started to move my head, the muscles in his stomach flexing. I hummed around him, adding additional pleasure.

"Oh my god, Sadé. I'm about to cum soon." He panted.

I took him out of my mouth. I proceeded to lick the prominent vein on his dick, starting from the base to his tip. I swirled my tongue over the head a few times, pumping him fast. Right before he was about to cum, I took him back into my mouth, pushing him deep inside me. I deep throated him while massaging his balls gently. That was enough to push him off the edge as he came, his eyes rolling back.

"UUHHHH, just like that, baby. FUCKKKK!" He growled as he released his thick, milky, cum deep inside my throat.

He held my head down, making me gag, while he road out his orgasm. He eventually released me from his hold. I sucked him clean as I pulled him out of my mouth then swallowed everything.

"Damn." He simply said as he passed me a napkin to wipe my face off with.

Once I was done, I pulled his pants and boxers back up before getting back on my feet.

"Don't underestimate the things I can do to you. Two can play that game." I said as I grabbed his neck.

With that I walked off, leaving him speechless, to fix myself up.

— Some Time Later

I was sat on the couch, scrolling through my social media, interacting with my supporters while I was waiting for Marshall to finish getting ready. I was surprised to see the amount of hate I was getting from my recent vlog that I had posted to YouTube yesterday. Don't get me wrong, all the positive comments outweighed the negativity as per usual. Internet hate is nothing new, and just a part of the industry. Haters gonna hate. However, this time was different. I don't know what it was. I had gained millions of new followers over the last couple of months so maybe that equates to increased haters? There was also this hate account that recently surfaced about me and only me so maybe they sent their little hate squad after me? I really don't know, but it was really starting to get to me. I took a few deep breaths to calm my anxiety down, locking my phone in the process. I don't need to look at that right now. When I opened my eyes again, I saw Marshall's intense blue gaze staring right back at me. I placed my had over my mouth, quickly stopping myself from letting out a loud scream.

"Jesus. You can't keep scaring me like that, popping up in places, bruh." I hissed at him as a faint grin hinted his face.

I took note of his outfit. He wore a white tee, a grey sweater, black jeans, and a pair of white Nike air forces. It perfectly matched my soft white dress that I wore with my silver/grey heels, jewelry, and white purse. I like how he took note of how I said that I'm not particularly fond of people when they don't match or coordinate their outfits for an outing, and he genuinely tried to match. The same way he did the first time we went out together. He's very observant to details, and the little details matter for me. Interesting.

I focused my attention back on him after my examination of his fit.

"My bad." He held his hands up defensively.

"You okay, though?" He asked concerned.

"Yea, I'm fine. Why?" I laughed, trying to play it off.

"You're a terrible liar. You know that?" He deadpanned.

Shit. I was really hoping he wouldn't catch that lie. Why is it he's able to read me so well? Literally he's been able to read me and clock me on everything ever since our first conversation on Hailie's doorstep. I mentally rolled my eyes.

"It's nothing. Let's go." I said getting up to walk past him.

"No you don't." He said, scooping me up by the waist and sitting me down on his lap. "I'm only going to ask this one more time. And you better tell me the truth. What's wrong, Sadé?"

"Fine. I'm getting a lot more hate than usual and it's sort of getting to me." I mumbled not wanting to look at him.

"That's it?" He asked.

I just shook my head yes.

"Ight look. As long as you've been doing this online-social media-persona shit, you should know that there's always going to be somebody who doesn't like you."

"But - " I started before he cut me off.

"No buts! Ignore it. Don't let that ruin your day or put you in a funk. You see all this shit you got? All the hard work you put in? Don't let them take that shit away from you. Be unapologetically you, yo. You need to learn & understand that. I know you're young, but don't be naive. While they're tapping away with their Twitter fingers being miserable, or whatever you young cats call it these days, you're up here. Remember that. Ight?" He, unintentionally, harshly spoke.

"Alright. Thank you." I hugged him, "Now, let's go!"

— On The Drive

It was just Marshall and I in the car, him in the passenger seat while I drove. Security followed closely behind us in a separate car so that we could have our privacy while they made sure we were still safe. We had been driving for 20 minutes now, listening to music while I told Marshall about some of the places we drove by. 'Crazy story' by King Von started playing in the background and I had to turn it up. This was one of my jams.

[There should be a GIF or video here. Update the app now to see it.]

"Got a drop on this flexin' nigga, he from TennesseeI had a thot she be with the shits, she told me where he beI said, "Fo' sho', baby, let me know if you wanna eat"She like, "Von you already know, just put your girl on fleek"I'm like cool, I can do that booWhat you want some shoes? Jimmy Choo, with a handbag too, red or baby blue?She gets to smilin' she ain't used to this, 'cause she ain't use to shitI'm just laughin', could've been a pimp the way I move my lipsI be speedin' could've been a driver the way I push the whipYou a hoe, coulda been a bitch, the way you throw a fitBut fuck that, right back to the script 'cause this a major lickHe got bricks, plus his neck is icy and it match his wrist" I rapped with one hand on the wheel while my other did hand movements.

Marshall gave me a side eye. Then he cracked and started laughing at me.

"You not gonna join me or you just gonna continue to laugh?" I side eyed him.

"Ight, Ight." He said composing himself.

With that being said we continued to rap the rest of the song together.

"I grab my Glock, it been through a lot, but it still shoot like new (boom, boom)We at the top, yeah we lost a lot, but that just how it goBut check the score, if y'all lose one more, that's six to twenty-four (yeah, yeah)Let me focus, can't be zonin' out, he pullin' up nowHe double park, he ain't gettin' out, he in that push to start (there he go right there)That new Porsche it's built like a horse, colors like the 'foHe got a ring, I guess he ain't divorce, wife probably a whoreNow she walk up, she struttin' her stuff, this bitch thick as fuckGot in the truck, kissed him on his lip, he cuffin' her buttNow I sneak up crouchin' like a tiger, like Snoop off The WireThe block on fire, so I take precaution, mask on Michael MyersI'm on his ass, he finna be mad, he gon' beat her assBut this what happen, I got to the door, I thought I was cappin'I was lackin' 'cause there go the opps, yellin' out, "What's crackin'?"I'm like, "What?" I'm like, "Nigga, who? I was born to shoot"I got aim, I'm like Jonny Dang, when it comes to chainsSo I rise, hit one in his arm, hit one in his thigh, this no lieBitch it's do or die, you said you gon' slideYou got some nerve, your shit on the curb, boy we put in workFrom 64th, and from 65th, we not from 63rd"

After the song ended and I turned the volume on the car speakers back down we were laughing our asses off. We settled down after a while. That's when I slowed down the car as we arrived at a Portillos drive through. It was a famous restaurant here that was well known for their Italian beefs and hot dogs. I rolled my window down, ordering two Italian beefs double-dipped and two chocolate cake shakes.

We got our food and I continued to drive as I made my way to my childhood home. I ate with one hand as I continued to drive with the other.

"This is so good. I can't believe I've never had one of these." Marshall said as he bit into his sandwich, "Do you know what exactly the flavors are? Since you know your flavors and cook and all." He inquired.

I chuckled lightly at his harmless question that he didn't want to seem to offend me by.

"Well it's thin slices of seasoned roast beef, simmered and served au jus on a long French roll. So the meat is usually seasoned with Italian herbs like oregano and basil, plus spices including red and black pepper, and occasionally nutmeg and cloves. And the au jus, which is a French term for the words "with juice", hence why it's dipped and called Italian [roast] beef and not just [roast] beef. Anyways, that part is flavored with Worcestershire sauce, beef broth or the juices from roast beef, and red wine. But don't worry, you can't taste the red wine. Plus, the alcohol cooks out of it when it's molecules reach a boiling point because...well because chemistry. So it won't affect your sobriety, love." I told him.

"Damn. You know how to cook, and you're smart... that's what's up." He said in amazement.

I gave him a funny face as we came to a red light. Because what's that supposed to mean? Women are more than just cooks and smart. I must've forgotten he can read me because immediately he spoke up.

"Not like that, Sae. I wasn't saying that in a misogynistic manner."

"It's fine. I get it." I nonchalantly say.

15 minutes later we're in my hood. The not so good side of Chicago, where I grew up, was raised, went through traumatic experiences, and made it out of: The south side. It was pretty popular, actually. It's where a lot of famous rappers grew up at as well, such as King Von, Polo G, Lil durk, G Herbo, and Chief Keef. It's also home of Michelle & Barack Obama, Jennifer Hudson, R. Kelly (Ew), and a few others.

I showed him where I went to school, the playground I used to play on, and a few of my favorite spots. We then make our way to my childhood home. When we arrive, I park the car, security parking right behind us, and getting out.

"And this is where I lived." I said as we made our way towards the old home.

"Wow. Can we look inside?" Marshall asked, looking around the neighborhood.

"Yea. My family actually still owns the house even though I moved them out a while ago. That's why it's still kept up."

I grabbed my keys, unlocking the door. I stand at the doorframe for a few seconds, looking at Marshall then the foyer. I take a deep breath in, then walk inside, Marshall following behind me while the security stayed outside the front doors. I haven't been here since I moved out when I was 15. I was emancipated so I was seen as an adult even though I was still a minor, meaning I had free will to do whatever I pleased. All the memories immediately flooded back to me. I tried to control my anxiety as best I could.

We entered the living room, and continued to walk and talk as I showed him around, telling him stories and memories from my childhood. Then we were inside of my old bedroom. It was still the same as I had left it. Purple walls, white curtains, and stuffed animals on the bed.

We sat down on the bed, facing each other. I grabbed one of the stuffed animals, hugging it.

"Nice home. Do you still visit here?" He questioned, trying to make conversation.

He laid down on the bed. I let out a deep sigh, knowing I'd be opening up to him even more today. It's not that I don't want to, but I simply don't like to talk about it.

"No. I haven't been here in years. I moved out when I was 15 because I was emancipated." I replied honestly.

As if on cue, he shot up from the bed, a questioning look on his face.

"What?!"

"Yea. I had been working jobs since I was 13, been posting on YouTube since I was like... 10-ish maybe? It was just for fun. You know, the lame shit kids post at that age. Nothing serious then, but then I blew up from going viral at 15 from this stupid video I posted. So that's when I started taking it seriously and working my ass off, then the money started rolling in. I kept saving everything I had until I could prove that I was financially able to support myself to be seen as a legal adult. So that's when I got emancipated at 15 and immediately moved out. I went to none other than California for like 3 months then moved back here because I didn't like it as much out there."

"Tell me more. Why?" He seemed intrigued.

"Because I knew that if I stayed here, I wouldn't make it out alive." I said seriously.

"Sadé... I - I know what that feeling is like all to well. You're not alone. I had it bad too. I was dirt poor practically until Dre saved me. I understand." Marshall sympathized.

But I didn't want his sympathy. I wanted to felt understood. I wanted him to understand. And he did. He truly is one of the few people who gets it because he grew up like I did. In the middle of the hood, just trying to make it out alive and better ourselves and survive. Even though I had my girls they could never really relate. Alabama grew up in the spotlight because her dad is Travis Barker, Jordyn had a lawyer for a father & doctor for a mom, and well Hailie is Marshall's daughter so... there's that. There was a short moment of silence.

"Can I ask you something? Yesterday you mentioned being suicidal and self harming. Was that here? Is that why you left?" He looked me in the eyes, almost as if searching for an answer.

"Yes. I... experienced all of my trauma here in this very house. I cut myself here and contemplated taking my own life here multiple times. Why? Because I was depressed. I was sad. I was upset that this was the life I had been given and it seemed as if there was nothing I could do about it. I mean I was so young but was going through a lot. I was getting bullied, I was going through eating disorders, I had depression & anxiety, I self harmed, and I grew up without a father. There was really nobody who was there for me. If I'm being real, when my mother died, that's what really broke my family apart. They weren't always toxic. My grandmother didn't always use to physically or mentally abuse me. She didn't always use to hate me. I still wish I knew the real reason why, but I can't dwell on the past. And me and my siblings were super close. We still are, but it's not the same. My mom is what kept us all together, Marshall. She was the glue. She kept us sane. Then when she left... it was just a lot for all of us to handle. We all closed each other off and shut each other out. We stopped talking to each other because it was too much to handle with all the pain and emotions and none of us openly spoke about it. So we drifted apart and took out all of our grief on each other. Even though we lived in the same house we were...strangers. We continued to grow, but separately. I mean, I'm not making excuses for what they did to me or how they made me feel or even how I made them feel, but I... recognize that it was hard. We all lost someone important at the end of the day. And it fucked us up for life. So I can only love them from a distance. That's why I moved out so early. Because I had to do what was best for me and my mental health. And once I did that, I made sure to help them too." I somberly recalled.

That was my childhood. I put it all out and open on the table. Now whether, he accepts me for who I am and all of my flaws or not is up to him. I didn't even realize I was crying until Marshall took the sleeve of his sweater and wiped my face with it, to which it returned damp.

"Sae, what you went through is nothing to sneeze at. I really do appreciate the effort you put into opening up to me. From the sound of it, I know it might be difficult because you try to suppress it, but don't. You don't have to hide anything or any emotions when you're with me. I promise you that. I'll be right here...You know about that friend I told you about? Proof? He was like you're mom in a sense, like how you said she was the glue and held everyone together. He was the exact same for me and my homies. With him we used to be like a family. Whenever shit popped off, he'd be the mature one to fix it. He was like a brother to me. Still is even tho he ain't here no more. Then he got shot. And I love my family from a distance too. Take my own mom for example. I love her to death in a twisted way, but we're toxic when we're around each other. I know your pain, Sadé. I mean everything I say to you, girl." He said caressing my leg soothingly as I sat cross-legged.

"I'll be right here for you too, love. You think I don't notice how you always try to not let things affect you or those around you, but I notice. You're not alone either. I got you like you got me."

I placed my hand on top of his reassuringly to soothe him. I could see that he was getting worked up, and I didn't want him to feel like that.

"Thanks. I really appreciate that." He spoke quietly.

"...Why though? Why me?" I asked after some deep thought.

I couldn't shake the feeling. I valued how much he connected with me and vice versa, but why? He could have any girl he wanted in thee world. And he decided to get to know me?

"What do you mean why you?"

"Why me? Why did you choose me? I mean I'm so much more younger than you; You're out of my league." I looked at him.

"I didn't choose you. It just happened. I tried to get you out of my head, tried to forget about you because I was supposed to have nothing to do with you for obvious reasons. But clearly I couldn't. I kept thinking about you and wanting to know more about you because you interested me. I know I wasn't supposed to have you, but I wanted you. You're like my guilty pleasure. I feel this guilt knowing that you shouldn't be what I want, but this pleasure knowing that I got you anyways. And nobody knows but us and the people close to us. The world doesn't know. And I don't care about your age. You ain't just some twenty-some year old bimbo. If anything we're on the same level." He reassured me.

"Good because I don't care that you're older than me, I actually kind of like it. Knowing that you have your shit together and all. Ya know? And your fine as hell!" I said trying to lighten the mood.

"Yea? I know I am, pretty girl." He said smirked.

He grabbed me, forcing me to straddle his lap. His hand rested on either side of my lower cheeks. Our lips collided as we kissed each other roughly. I suppose we're over the guilt and are now focused on pleasure.

I softly moaned into his mouth, allowing him to slip his tongue inside. He flipped me onto the bed, placing his body in between mines. We continued to explore each other's bodies as our hands roamed free. I tugged at the belt he was wearing, wanting more.

"Baby." Marshall moaned as I slipped my hand inside his boxers.

"Baby...Sadé" He said a bit louder this time.

"What's wrong?" I hazily asked while I scanned his face.

"Nothings wrong. I just don't want to do it like this. And I know you don't either. I don't just wanna fuck you. I wanna treat you like a real lady. Do it right. We ain't gotta rush."

I can tell he was being sincere. He's right. I didn't want to go all the way there with him yet and wanted to take things slow still. I still wasn't ready for all of that yet. And neither was he. He's so respectful, and that just makes my head spin even more with feelings towards him. Ugh, why's he have to be such a great guy? I'm playing a dangerous game with him, and I just hope it doesn't lead to heart break again.

"Yea. You're right." I sheepishly replied.

"I still want to show you a good time though. A little present for earlier." He said looking at me as he made his way down.

He hiked my dress up as he pushed my panties to the side and began eating me out. Right here. Right now. The entire time I felt bliss. Once that was all said and done, he came back up, wiping his beard with his sweater sleeve.

We then cuddled under the covers, taking a short nap.

— Later that evening,

We had left the house some time ago and were back in the neighborhood of my apartment: Downtown Chicago, thee heart of the city some like to call it. We had just arrived at Giordano's Pizzeria.

The security has already given the go ahead to get out the car after making sure it was clear for us to do so without being seen. So we headed inside with security enclosing us. Once we got inside, some stayed out front while two came with us inside and sat at another table far from ours. We were sat near one of the window seats, the sun beaming on us as it would be setting in the next few hours.

After talking for a few minutes and looking over the menu, the owner of this particular shop came by. I come here pretty often, especially with my girls, so it's no secret that we're on a first name basis at this point.

"Why hello, Sadé. How've you been?" Edwardo greeted us.

"I'm great! And you?" I politely asked with a smile.

"I'm good as usual. And this is Mr.Mathers I'm assuming? The reason you wanted to reserve the pizzeria." He joked, shaking Marshall's hand, "It's all jokes. It's nice to meet you."

"You too, man." Marshall greeted, keeping up his stone cold expression that he does whenever he's out in public.

"Now, what can I get you both? Drinks?" Edwardo asked, taking out a notepad & pen.

Marshall tilted his head for me to order first.

"May I please have the medium deep dish pizza with pepperoni, bacon, and spinach? And for the drink I'd like an iced sweet tea."

"Okay, and for you, Mr.Mathers?"

"May I please have the medium deep dish with sausage, and a Diet Coke?" Marshall ordered.

"Got it. Anything else for you two?"

"Oh, and a margarita pizza please!"

"Of course. A waiter will be out with your drinks in just a minute, and your food will be ready for the lovely couple shortly." Edwardo said walking away.

Marshall and I just silently looked at each other because of what he said. I was frozen still in my seat, and my face was heating up to extreme temperatures.

"The lovely couple, huh?" Marshall teased, licking his lips, "Did you tell him that when you called to reserve the place?"

"What, no! I don't know why he said that." I quickly tried to deescalate the conversation.

"You like the way that sounds?"

"Uhhh." I said nervously taking a sip of my tea the waiter had dropped off a few seconds ago.

"It's so funny when you get all shy on me." He let out a hearty laugh, clapping his hands together.

"Leave me alone." I joked, covering my face with my hands, "You're so corny for an old man."

"Okay, okay, okay. I'll cut you some slack."

"Would it be crazy if I said I do like the way it sounds?" I pursed my lips together.

He began to choke on his drink, causing me to giggle at his sudden dismay.

"What was that?" He croaked out.

"I said would it be crazy if I said that I do like the way it sounds? To answer your question from earlier, I might." I repeated myself.

"No, it wouldn't be crazy." He said as he leaned back in his seat, a smug expression on his face.

"Good to know."

Almost 20 minutes later, all three of our pizzas same out. I made sure the security had gotten their own pizzas as well. I had paid for everything in advance this morning when I called so anything on the menu was fair game. We were eating and talking. Marshall had told me how it's similar to Detroit style pizza, which is basically nothing but crust, while this is basically nothing but cheesy goodness.

We also discussed both of our upcoming work projects. He said he just needed to finish up some songs on his album. He mentioned that he wanted to hopefully release it by December or January. I, in return, told him how I was invited to be a guest on the Jennifer Hudson Show in California in a few weeks then will be in Milan, Italy for Fashion Week as a model.

Once we finished up with our dinner, we were headed to our final destination. It was only five minutes away so we made it there in no time.

— At The Riverwalk

The security went through the procedure of making sure it was all clear once again before we were able to walk down on the doc. I had planned a cute little boat ride for the both of us to watch the views as the sun set. It was perfect timing. Once we stepped onto the boat, Marshall gave me an expecting look.

"What's this, pretty girl?"

"The surprise. I wanted to do something nice for you because you're always so nice to me. And because I do value your presence."

"Damn, thank you. I've never had a girl do something for me before. Like forreal, it's usually just me." He explained, giving me a kiss on the cheek as we made our way to the balcony as the boat began to sail along the river.

Marshall pulled me close to him as we looked at the views. The sky had already began to set, and the city had started turning on its lights. It was beautiful. A lot of people don't appreciate the city for what it is. For all its beauty and diversity. They only see the violence, crime, and hoods. Those who live here, who are from here though, know that Chicago is so much more and holds a special place in a lot of peoples' hearts.

There was a comfortable silence for about 10 minutes before Marshall said something.

"I think... I love the Windy City." Marshall said softly.

I didn't respond because I don't think he wanted me to hear it with how low he said it. I simply smiled to myself instead.

"Sadé, mayb - "

I turned my head to look at him, but he was cut off by the sound of fireworks going off. It was to signal the end of summer. They do it every year on the last day of fall.

Immediately, Marshall grabbed me by the back of my neck, pulling me close, as his hands tangled in my hair, kissing me deeply. I kissed him back with no hesitation. It was slow and sweet.

I felt... like I wanted more. Like... maybe just maybe I was ready for something more - the next step. I'm really not too sure, but this kiss let me know that my feelings for him were intensifying.