Chapter 89 - When It Feels Like Home

Sadé's POV:

— Tuesday

I was currently up early this morning, packing for my Chicago trip. My flight was set to leave within the next two hours. I needed to move fast since the airport was already an hour drive away. I got my outfits together for the next six days.

I needed quite a of things because not only was I flying back to Chicago for the next three days for business & personal reasons, but afterwards I'd be flying straight to California for an additional three days. I was back to being booked and busy, but this wasn't even nearly as much work as I'd normally do because I was easing my way back into the spotlight - Not that I ever left, but you know what I mean. Then I touch down in California I have to get a lot of things done. I have a photoshoot with both Skims and Savage X Fenty/Fenty Beauty for promos and modeling gigs, the launch of my perfume collab, and most importantly the Streamy Awards. I was super excited about all of it. I love what I do and wouldn't trade it for the world.

I finished packing some time ago and was currently putting my clothes on. I selected a chocolate brown turtleneck dress that just barely covered the bottom of my butt, matching knees length-heeled boots and a matching brown leather trench coat jacket. I threw on some shades that were apart from my collection that would be available to the public in the future and went down the stairs where Marshall was waiting for me.

He was going to be dropping me off at the airport whilst on his way to work. He had already put my bags in the car earlier and was just waiting for me to get ready. As per usual, he grabbed my hand helping me down the last few steps of the stairs like the gentleman he is. When he saw how I was dressed, he raised his eyebrows. His eyes scanned over my body, taking in my outfit that wasn't fit for the current weather.

"Go change." Was all he said as he stood there, an unreadable expression on his face.

"Why?" I challenged, catching an attitude.

I am not changing my outfit. I don't think there's anything wrong with it.

He didn't respond though. He just gave me a stern look. I wasn't backing down though.

"I'm not changing, Marshall." I rolled my eyes.

"Sadé, you're dressed like it ain't cold as hell outside. It's, what, forty-eight degrees. And not only that, but we both know that dress is too short." He criticized.

"Okayyy? What's that supposed to mean? Forty degrees or seventy, and I'm still gonna wear this outfit." I waved my hands around, not seeing the big deal or caring.

Yes, it's cold outside, but I was not about to let a good outfit go to waste. Nuh uh. I have to wear this before it snows. It looks too good on me.

"You'll be freezing your ass off then you'll get sick. And don't ignore what I said about that dress being too short. I know you heard me." He argued.

"It's not. You act like I'm going to be out here shaking my ass or walking outside. I'm going to be inside all day long." I huffed out.

"No? It ain't too short? Turn around." He demanded me.

I grudgingly turned around, my backside facing him. He lifted my jacket, checking out my dress. He pulled on it to see if it would go down any further, which it did, but not much. It ended up riding back up almost immediately. I heard him let out a grunt, letting my jacket go as I turned back around. He held a blank look on his face as he started to speak.

"One wrong move and it's literally over for you, girl. But go ahead. When you get cold and you start feeling that breeze go up your pussy, don't say I didn't tell you so." He shook his head in disapproval.

He started walking away, grabbing his car keys from his endless collection in the foyer. Whatever. I know he's technically right, but I still wanted to wear the outfit, nonetheless. I couldn't resist it. It was so cute, and I felt like I was eating it down. Anything for fashion. Even if it does mean I might catch a cold - At least I'll look cute while doing it.

I quickly caught up to him, walking ahead. He allowed me to walk ahead of him to exit out the front door as he locked it up.

"Little Miss Stubborn." I heard him grumble under his breath.

Then without warning, I felt a large hand smack and grab my ass. I shook my head, letting out a small laugh, at his antics. We got in the car, making our way to our destination.

— Chicago, 11:37 AM

I had gotten out of a meeting with my entire team (Those part of my team for my career, my manager, the staff at my business/filming suite, and all of my employees that help run my brand), and was on my way to my next move. In the meeting, I touched base with everyone, went over some important details, talked through kinks that needed straightening, and discussed the future of the brand. I also discussed the future of my social media platform & presence.

We had officially decided that I would post my first video for a long time in a while before this month was over. Of course, I wanted to make it a whole thing where I came back with a bang so we discussed all the possibilities of how I could do that as well. I had time to decide, but I wasn't entirely sure. Some of the options were to post the video I made a few weeks ago where I addressed the situation, I could post my Aspen trip, or could do something where I announce my brand. I wasn't feeling them though because they weren't up to my level of dramatics and I wanted to wait to announce my sunglasses until next year. So I turned all of those options down, but I knew that whatever I chose, it was going to break the internet. So in the meantime, it was my duty to think about what that video should be.

Next up on my schedule today was to visit the headquarters of the sunglasses brand. The contractors that I had hired to do the renovations had finished the job a few days ago, and I wanted to check it out. They must work fast because it hadn't even been that long, and they were already done with everything. I was thrilled to see what they had done with the place. Jordyn had checked it out periodically to make sure things were running smoothly, and she said it was amazing and that I'd like it. I trusted her judgment.

We eventually made it there, parking the car in the car lot. I had one of the men from my security team bring me my G Wagon from my family's house so that I could use it to drive around the city since I obviously didn't have my Range Rover to drive. I wanted to be able to drive on my own since I'd be here for basically half a week.

Jordyn pulled up behind me, the both of us walking inside. As soon as I entered, my face lit up as I let out a gasp. Everything was perfect. The lighting, paint job, decorations, and everything. They went above and beyond.

"Oh my gosh! It's so PRETTY. Eeee!" I squealed not being able to contain myself.

I went around inspecting everything, adoring what I saw. I had no complaints whatsoever. Even my office that I had here was decked out. It held a throne-like chair in front of a computer desk, some of my achievements were displayed, and it had the paperwork of Trademark & ownership for the company displayed in a golden case.

I felt extremely proud of myself. Of course, I had support along the way from those around me, such as my team, Jordyn, and Marshall, but overall - This was all me. I worked my ass off to be able to afford this, worked day and night to make it happen, and went through so many obstacles to make this a reality. All of this is here because of my hard work and dedication. It went from just an idea to a discussion to a conversation to a building. And soon it'll be a whole production. It was all coming to life exactly how I envisioned it. Soon I'll be able to share my baby with the world. That's what this felt like: My baby.

Couldn't no one tell me anything. No one can say that anything was handed to me, or that I was given a silver spoon or a platter. Nuh uh. That's not me - I'm all about being self-made. This was all me. This is what success looks like. I had achieved yet another dream of mine. I couldn't be any happier.

I continued walking around the place, appreciating it all. It was gorgeous, and I was grateful.

— House Hunting

My last order of business for today was more personal. I was going house hunting with Jordyn and a real estate agent she recommended to me, named Camilla Hudgens. We're going to be touring a few different options today. Some would be in the city and some outside of the city, but those would be saved for tomorrow. I was hoping I'd find one in the inner city though because I love it here more than anything. I wasn't going to be upset if I lived 45 minutes away from it, but there was the option of convenience and that little ounce of extra happiness that came along with it.

Nonetheless, I was ready to start the process. I'm not going to lie, I was nervous. Nervous because I didn't know what to expect. Marshall had given me advice last night as well as this morning on our drive to the airport, but I was still anxious. I also had Jordyn by my side, who purchased a home a few years ago, so I knew I was in good hands. This was actually the same agent she had used so I did not doubt her. Jordyn eased my nerves by simply being here because I knew I could always ask her questions, ask for her opinion on things, or whatever the case may be. At the end of the day, she was my best friend before my manager. She'd keep it real.

There was another part of me that was very joyous, however. I knew that this was an exciting time for me. I was purchasing my very first home! That's something to celebrate and be in good spirits about. I wasn't about to take anything for granted and wanted to experience it all in full force. I wanted to see where this road was going to lead me. I didn't want to think about the past anymore and was only focused on looking forward.

— House 1:Cost: $594,800

We arrived at the first house of the tour, and the exterior was beautiful. It was modern yet simplistic. All three of us walked through the door whilst Camilla, the realtor, began talking about the home.

She spoke of the dimensions, specifics, the area, and other details. She mentioned how it was brand new, not inhabited before, which I quite enjoyed. I liked the thought of being the first one to live here because then it would feel like mine and not like it was used or handed down to me.

There was a total of four bedrooms and three and a half bathrooms. It was a two-story home that didn't include a basement or attic. It wasn't very big at all. It was giving family home. I was unsure about that vibe and size, but I didn't immediately shut it down. I'm sure with the right decor, it would fit my style better.

We walked through every room, my eyes scanning over everything. I was being very observant of it all. I made sure I didn't miss not one detail, whether it be big or small. I noticed in the master bedroom there was a walk-in closet. It was cute, but there was a problem with that. It wasn't big enough. It wasn't nearly enough room to fit all of my things. At most, I could fit my purse collection and a few shoes. That's it. The walk-in closet in my apartment was bigger than this. Then again, that was its room so I digress.

Not only that, but we were in a regular neighborhood. That didn't bother me at all. I was completely fine having neighbors. I did live in an apartment after all where my neighbors were on the other side of the wall from me so I didn't mind at all. But because of the area and how close our houses were, I wouldn't be able to have security guard the house. Camilla said that it would go against the HOA policy put in place in the community, meaning if I did live here, I had no form of protection. Jordyn had said that it be in my best interest to have 24/7 security so this house wasn't even an option for me, unfortunately.

Overall, the house was nice, but it wasn't for me. I wanted something a little bigger and with a little more privacy and safety. So on to the next one.

— House 2:Cost: $10,567,000

The second house we toured was breathtaking. It was huge! It strangely enough reminded me of Marshall's house - The vast amount of land, how big it was, the brick walls with black trimming. It was almost identical. I already knew that it would be too much space before even seeing the interior.

Once again, we walked inside, checking it out. Don't get me wrong, it was grand. It had an enchanting feel to it. It reminded me of a castle from the olden days, but the inside was the complete opposite. It wasn't old at all and very well kept. It had three floors, 12 bedrooms, 14 bathrooms, and a basement. It had two kitchens, multiple living & lounge areas, and a nice big walk-in closet. Even if the closet wasn't big enough, it wouldn't matter because I could just convert one of the other rooms into one.

We walked outside, touring the rest of the property. I scrunched my nose up, crossing my arms as I shivered: I was cold. Okay, so Marshall may have been right when he said I'd feel a breeze. It was bearable at first, but I hadn't expected to be outside this much. I didn't take into consideration I would be walking around the outside of the properties too. The breeze was quickly turning into wind. I was freezing my butt off, but there was nothing that could be done now. It was too late. This is what I chose to wear, and I shouldn't have. I should've changed into something more warm yet still cute. I mentally rolled my eyes at my stubbornness.

Chile, anyways. The back of the house was even bigger. It overlooked a lake, having a beautiful view. There was a huge pool, a guest house, a tennis court, a basketball court, and all. It was so big that there were golf carts included so that I wouldn't have to walk everywhere because it would take forever. We eventually went back inside to discuss what we thought of the home. We sat around the table in one of the living rooms.

"So, how do you like it?" Camilla asked, taking notes to get an idea of which houses would be tailored to my needs and wants.

"I like it, but it's very big - Too big." I gave my honest opinion.

"You said you like big." Jo looked at me confused.

"Yes, but not gigantic. This is way too much space for me. I could get lost in here. Plus, I don't even play tennis. Why would I need a tennis court?" I pointed out.

"Fair enough." Jordyn agreed.

"Okay. No tennis court and less square footage. Gotcha." Camilla noted.

"I must say, I do like how I don't have neighbors, and the amazing view of the lake out back." I complimented the place.

"Okay. We have a few more houses to look at that I think you might like. Don't forget that we also have more to look at tomorrow too." Camilla said.

"Okay, let's go!" I replied cheerfully, ready to keep looking.

— House 3:Cost: $7,523,000

The third house of the day... I love it. It's the perfect amount of space. 5 bedrooms, 7 baths, a nice large living room, very long windows that mimicked floor-to-ceiling windows like my old place, a gorgeous kitchen with all stainless steel appliances and granite countertops, and a backyard that had a pool area, a small guest house, and a basketball court. Space: Check.

There were no neighbors until the next mile because the houses were spread far apart. This meant that I could have my security. Safety and privacy: Check.

The house alone was also visually pleasing. It wasn't bold enough to draw attention and was rather mute. It had a unique cottage feel to it nonetheless. It wasn't as modern and swanky as you'd think it be considering that's what I tend to lean towards, but I still loved it. It was different from my usual style, and I think that's why I was so drawn to it. Looks: Check.

We once again sat somewhere to touch base about how I felt about it; To see where my head was at and see if we were getting anywhere in the process or if we should look at completely different options altogether.

"Do you like this one, Sadé?" Jordyn asked me this time.

"I love it. It's very grand, has a great amount of space, and is in a nice private community... I have no complaints about this house." I smiled.

I turned to Camilla who was looking over the paperwork of the home. I was about to ask her some more details about it and if she thought it would be a good buy. However, her face had a look of horror on it. She started at the paper, rapidly flipped through others and searched for something on her phone, then cleared her throat.

"Everything alright?" I asked her, feeling concerned.

"Oh, I'm fine. This house on the other hand, not so much." Camilla nervously chuckled, clutching her pearly necklace.

"Why not?..." I looked at her confused.

I gave Jordyn a weird look, who shrugged her shoulders, mouthing to me that she didn't know either.

"Well let's just say this house... The previous owner didn't exactly give it up." Camilla said with wide eyes as she scrolled on her phone.

"What do you mean? How's it on the market if he didn't give it up?" Jordyn piped up in a puzzled tone.

"I just ran a background check on the owner and he's deceased." Camilla said baffled, "His son put it up for sale thirty days ago because his father, the owner, was murdered. He was the owner of a multimillion-dollar company and his business partner wanted it all. So he strangled him in the pool outback then dragged his body inside..." She squinted her eyes to read the article off her phone screen better, "The kitchen, where he stabbed him." She finished.

Oh?... OH.

"WHAT?! THIRTY DAYS AGO?" I said jumping out of my chair.

I failed to mention that we were sitting in the very kitchen she just told me someone brutally got murdered in! Oh HELL no. And thirty days ago, one month? That's a fresh murder! Shouldn't this still be a crime scene or something?! How is it even legal to sell a home that fast after someone died in it?!

"OH MY GOD. OH FUCK THAT SHIT, CAMMY. FUCK. THAT. SHIT." Jordyn screamed running out of the house to her car.

"Yeaaaa..." Camilla gave a blank smile.

"We should... Go." I suggested, slowly but surely grabbing my things as we left the house.

I felt like I had the heebie-jeebies all over. That's wicked. And so SICK. WHO does something like that?

Everything I enjoyed about the house, forget about it. Nope. Nuh uh. I was no longer interested. Instead of giving rich & expensive, it was giving deadly & haunted. I wanted no parts. I can't believe this even happened. I was getting fed up now and was getting ready to call it a day, but we still had a few more places to go. Here go nothing.

— At Dinner

Jo and I were out having dinner at Giordano's Pizzeria. It wasn't that many people in the restaurant since it was a late Tuesday night, but it wasn't empty either. It was a nice way to conclude the busy day I had because I was so hungry. I hadn't eaten all day and just wanted to sit down, relax, and enjoy some good deep-dish pizza.

We had already ordered our food and we were waiting for it to come out. Whilst we were waiting for our order, we had ordered drinks and were sipping on them as we held a conversation. I had a margarita and she had a rum & coke.

"I still can't believe someone died there and then his son dared to sell it. I mean, what's wrong with people?" Jordyn reminisced in disbelief.

That was a crazy incident. Only would something like that happen to us. I swear when we're together there's always a means for trouble. It's like the universe couldn't help but put us through the wringer.

"Well thank God Camilla did a background check because I was about to put an offer in until we found that out." I shook my head in a joking manner.

"...You think the son is in on it though?" She whispered to me across the table with all seriousness.

Jordyn has a habit of coming up with all types of conspiracy theories. She loves all things true crime, but yet she ran out of the house like a fool. Don't get me wrong, I love true crime too, but sometimes she can get a little too ahead of herself.

"What?" I chuckled.

"The son. You don't think he's suspicious? His father was brutally murdered for his wealth by his business partner, and he's selling the house thirty days later. Shouldn't he be mourning him not making a profit? If his dad died, his business partner wouldn't get his money. I mean, he'd get the business, but that's it. Everything else would go to his one and only son. And he was really quick to sell the house, which is listed for a couple of millions. You don't think they're teaming up or something? All I'm saying is that I wouldn't be surprised if the business partner ends up dead next." She intriguingly told me.

"No way, Jo. Maybe he just doesn't want anything associated with his dad because it brings him bad memories, including his home. You need to lay off the true crime documentaries, girl." I said to her, giving her a knowing look.

"You're probably right, but we both know I won't. Anyways, are you ready to do this all over again tomorrow?" She wondered out of curiosity as the waitress sat our pizza and wings on the table in front of us.

Honestly, I wasn't looking forward to touring more houses. I was impressed by what I had seen today, but nothing truly stood out to me. Nothing screamed at me to buy it. We toured so many different properties, and they were all not quite it. It wasn't the one. I'd either find something I liked then something else about it would cause me to dislike it or it didn't fit my needs and wants. I don't know why, but I felt like I was losing hope that I would find a home to call my own. And since apartments are out of the equation, my options were practically cut in half. I just wanted something that made me feel comfortable and happy. Something cozy and homey.

So I was feeling pretty bummed about that. I was starting to feel unsure about it all, having moments of doubt. I was wondering if this was even the right move or not. Was I making the right choice?

"No." I answered in a saddened tone, "I don't think I'm going to find anything I like." I admitted, taking a bite of my pizza.

"Why not?" She furrowed her brows, wanting to know my reasoning.

"Because nothing truly excites me. The houses are nice and all, but nothing feels like home, you know what I'm saying. What if I don't find myself another home?" I frowned.

"You will, trust me. We still have tomorrow, and if you don't find anything tomorrow then we keep looking. It's a process so don't rush it. This is something that's a big part of your life so you need to choose wisely." She reassured me.

She's right. Maybe I was moving too fast. I need to slow down, consider everything, and then make a choice. Tomorrow will be a new day, and I'll have a clearer head after getting some much-needed rest. Hopefully, I'll have some better luck then. Especially since I have a better understanding of what I'm looking for.

Marshall's POV:

— Detroit, Midnight

I had been at the studio all day and was still here even though it was the next day because it was midnight. I really wanted to get this work done and make progress on my album so that I wouldn't miss any more deadlines. That and also because I wanted to make some time for my family and Sae for the holidays so I needed to get the work done if I wanted to take any time off. Otherwise, I'd be working up until Christmas, which I wasn't about to do. And since Sae wasn't at the house, I didn't need to be home at a reasonable time so decided to stay as long as I possibly could, working late through the night - Grinding.

Currently, I was shuffling through my vault of songs I had recorded and was listening to them to see if any of them were good enough to include on the album. I had concluded that the issue wasn't me producing the music because I was on a roll with that, but rather deciding what was going to be included on the album and what was never going to be released to the public.

My brain was fried though. I was so tired and needed to take a break. I had been working nonstop. I paused all the work I was doing and checked the time on the clock hanging above the door to my office: 12:17 am. I groaned as I ran my hands over my face. I grabbed another can of Red Bull, cracking it open. I leaned back in my chair, pulling my phone out. I went over to Sadé's contact, debating on whether I should call her or not.

It was already super late and I'm sure she'd be sleeping, but my heart was longing for her. I just wanted to hear her voice, but I also didn't want to be inconsiderate. I tapped my fingertips on the desk, going back and forth. Fuck it. I hit call, hearing the phone ring. It kept ringing so I thought she wouldn't pick up. I was about to hang up when I saw the screen display change, showing that she answered, and then heard her voice through the speakerphone I had her on.

"Hi, MarMar." She mumbled sleepily.

There was no doubt that I had woken her up from a deep slumber. I smiled at the nickname she had given me, and at hearing her voice. Man, this lady really turned me into this soft guy.

"What's up, pretty girl? Sorry for waking you up." I immediately apologized.

"It's fine." She replied nonchalantly, letting out a little yawn.

"How was your day?" I made small talk.

Honestly, I just wanted to hear her talk. I didn't care what it was about. She could talk about sheep and I'd willingly listen.

"It was alright. I had fun looking at all the houses for the most part, but it was stressful. I didn't think it would be this hard, to be honest." She said softly.

She continued to talk about all she did today: How I was right about her wearing that short-ass dress in the winter, the renovations for her headquarters, her having dinner with Jordyn, and how one of the homes apparently had some type of bad juju or something. I could hear the sound of worry in her voice. She didn't sound as happy as she should have been.

"What's wrong? Something happen?" I asked, squinting my eyes.

"Nothing." She tried to lie to me, but I knew her.

I can tell when she isn't being truthful with me. Not that she ever has about anything serious, but when she's tried to cover up her feelings. She's sad about something and I can hear it in her voice. I can tell. She's probably snuggling herself up in a blanket right now to make herself feel better.

"What's wrong?" I asked again, hearing her let out a breath of air this time.

"I'm feeling a teeny weeny bit discouraged, but I know I'll be fine. There's this small sense of insecurity I'm feeling in the back of my mind, and it's making me have second thoughts. I'm wondering if I'm making the right choice, if I'll find my perfect home, and wondering if I should be doing this." She confessed, mumbling the last part lowly.

"Baby- " I started, but she continued.

"Marshall, how will I know if I found the right place?" She blurted out.

"You're worried about finding the perfect one, huh?" I asked, now understanding why she was in such distress.

"Mhmm. I just don't want to commit to something I'll regret."

She can be such an overthinker sometimes. Often too much for her own good often. I genuinely wish I was there to support her and help her, but I couldn't because of work. I was tied up, and there was nothing I could do. I felt guilty, but it is what it is, unfortunately. She knows she can always call me or FaceTime me if she ever needs anything.

"You'll know it's the right house when it feels like home to you. If it only feels like a house, a regular building with no sense of direction, then it's not the one. Home is where the heart is, where you feel safe, and where you can go at the end of the day to relax. Don't just buy something just because." I told her truthfully.

It was quiet for a few seconds and I could've sworn I heard her say something along the lines of "You're home" or "Your house is home" to me, but I was probably just delirious at this point. I'm probably just making things up.

Deep down, in the back of my mind, I wish she did say that though. I'd love nothing more than to have her move in with me full-time. It's what I'm used to now, and I don't want to let that go. I know it's selfish, but I couldn't help myself. If she lived with me in Detroit I swear I'd make her the happiest woman on this earth. She wouldn't have to worry about anything. No finances, no bills, no nothing. I'd cover it all.

I know she can't though. It's not physically possible with our successful and demanding careers. I wouldn't force her to give that up just to make me happy. I couldn't. I'd never be able to forgive myself if she gave up everything just for me and my selfish needs and wants. But before I could even stop myself, I was saying it out loud.

"You can always continue to take over my headquarters, girl. You ain't gotta go anywhere." I said in a playful tone.

I may have masked it as a joke, but I wasn't joking. I was dead serious. She can take over my house and I'd be happy with that. She already added her own touches of her personality here and there. My home used to be so masculine before and now there are small things scattered around the house left by her that I leave there because it lets me know that she feels comfortable here. For example, there are throw blankets on the couch, her perfume in the bathroom, her clothes in my closet, her lip liner in my car, a candle on my kitchen countertops, or the plant she bought for the foyer. As soon as you walk in you could tell that there's a woman in my life just from the atmosphere and a few items on display alone whereas before it screamed single and fuck me. They say women tend to do that, taking over your headquarters almost as if they're marking their territory once you enter a relationship.

When I realized that she didn't say anything, remaining silent, I quickly corrected myself. Shit. I might've come off too strong for her liking.

"I'm joking, Sae. It's just a joke. I'm not pressuring you." I felt my face heat up.

"I know... How was your day?" She finally replied, changing the subject.

"It was good. I've been productive all day, working and sorting things out." I told her, "I should be heading home, but I decided to stay back and work tonight."

"You're going to be really tired. You don't have to go that hard, you know." She tried scolding me.

I know I don't, but if I want to make certain things happen then I need to. It's a sacrifice that I'm willing to make at the end of the day. Been doing this my whole career: Sacrificing and working hard. It's never-ending.

"I know." I let out a sigh, pulling my hat lower over my face, starting to feel flustered.

"Well, have you at least eaten anything?" She asked me with concern laced in her voice.

"No. I'm not hungry." I lied, feeling my stomach growl.

I was running off of nothing but energy drinks and the waffles I had this morning. I had been too busy to even think about eating anything. I was so in my zone that I guess I forgot to.

"Go eat." She said sternly.

"Sae, I'll be fine." I tried telling her, being stubborn but knowing she was right.

"Marshall, I'm not asking you. I'm telling you. Go eat." She repeated herself more dominantly this time.

Man, she can be so bossy when she wants to be. I thought it was attractive how she was getting mad at me for not eating. It's such a non-sexual turn on how she really does care about me. No woman has ever cared about if I ate or not, or made sure I was good like that. They were only worried about themselves, but Sae, she's so selfless. She genuinely cares about my well-being. That's one of the reasons why I love her as much as I do.

"Ight, fine." I chuckled deeply to myself, "I'm convinced you got a kink for trying to fatten me up or something." I joked, making her laugh.

I got up from my chair, walking to the kitsch here at the studio. I grabbed a box of cereal and milk.

"You can't survive off of Red Bull and Coke, love." She shot back, now making me laugh out loud.

I was now in a way better mood than I was before I called her. I poured the milk into the bowl followed by the cereal.

"Also, if I did have a thing for that, would it be an issue?" She questioned, and I could practically see the smirk on her face.

"Nah, of course not. I don't mind being a part of your wicked fantasies if it means I get to eat good." I said smugly.

I took a spoonful of my Fruit Loops as I sat at the kitchen island. The phone was lying by the cereal bowl as we continued talking back and forth.

"That's what I thought." She replied sassily.

I rolled my eyes, shaking my head at her antics even though she couldn't see me. She had me grinning to myself as if I'd never had a girlfriend before.

There was a brief moment of silence where neither of us said anything. I was munching away at my cereal deep in thought. I had almost forgotten I was even on the phone with her. I was so caught up on work, that I couldn't even turn my brain off for a few minutes to talk to my lady. It was ridiculous. Almost as if we had soul ties, as if she could sense my mind straying away and wondering, she caught my attention, noticing something was off with me.

"Love?" She called out for me.

"Hmm?"

"Are you okay? Like from work and everything, are you okay mentally and emotionally?" She checked in with me.

I thought over my answer. That question forced me to think. Am I okay? Was the stress from work getting to me? I let out this strangled breath I didn't even know I had. I felt like I was suffocating - Drowning myself in work.

"I'm gonna be real, work at the studio can be a lot at times, baby. It can be very draining. It's stressful, and it feels never-ending sometimes. I'm making all these sacrifices for my career and the return isn't always worth it. Yet this is the norm for me. It's been like this for as long as I can remember, and I've been worse. This ain't nothing I can't handle. Trust me, I'm okay." I rambled, continuing to spill my guts to her.

She quietly listened to everything I was telling her, not interrupting once. I trust her, and I feel safe with her. I can tell her anything. She waited until she knew I was done talking to speak up.

"In case I haven't told you lately, or if no one else has, I'm proud of you. And I'm not just saying that, I mean it. I'm proud of you and your hard work, and it's something you should be proud of too. You take pride in what you do and that dedication shows. I love you." She voiced through the phone sincerely.

At that moment, I could feel myself starting to be overcome with emotion. I've been behind on work, working my ass off to get back on track, and I felt as though all of it went unnoticed recently. Her words reassured me of everything. I needed to hear that. And it meant a lot more coming from her. I felt tingles in my stomach when she said it. It was so honest and kind.

"Thank you. I love you too." I replied rather shyly.

Damn. I ain't think that shit would make me cry, but it did. I wiped away a stray tear, scratching my beard.

I heard her let out yet another yawn, and I knew I couldn't keep her awake any longer. I bid her goodnight, telling her to go back to bed, and that I'll call her tomorrow. We hung up the phone and I emptied my bowl of milk in the sink, putting the dish and spoon in the dishwasher.

I returned to my office and grabbed my keys and work bag to go home. I was calling it a night, but her words were the perfect motivation I needed to keep going for the next few days, and for me to finish the rest of the album.