Keep Calm--Love Takes Time.

Love Takes Time
 Love Takes Time
  Love Takes Time
   Love Takes Time
    Love Takes Time
     Love Takes Time
      Love Takes Time
       Love Takes Time
        Love Takes Time


If you don't mind, please check out this story I am co-writing with @MissMinaj321. If you enjoy it, tweet her, tweet her, tweet her, asking for more ^_^.

http://aandejustforthesummer.blogspot.com/2012/06/introducing-chapters.html

Chapter 39 - Shock of a Lifetime.

That Thursday, Nicki found herself among her friend, Lauren, as she explained to her what was going on in her life. It wasn't at all like Nicki to complain or act as if the world had just come down on her shoulders, so there had to be something bothering her to make her not seem herself. Drake, of course, knew that the situation they were going through was going to put a lot of stress on her but his job was to be there as her husband, and be there as her friend. When he had to leave for some hours, he put her closest associate to where she can watch over.

Lauren tried so hard ever since Nicki arrived to her house to get her to enlighten her just a little. But with Nicki being in a trance, it was difficult to try and see pass whatever it was. The liquid nearly came down the aisle but Nicki tried to be stronger. It was just something that her mom wanted to be. It was something that her mother was. So she had to keep that in mind every time a hardship came about.

"Onika, whatever it is, I'm here. I want you to talk to me about whatever it is that you feel is a burden over you." It's true that Lauren already kind of knew of the situation because of Drake, but she wanted Nicki to answer herself so that she could have follow up questions and assure that she would have to go through the tough things first in order to receive that gaiety, as it occurs in most situations.

"Lauren, I am so sorry," Nicki alerted, the tone shifting in her voice.

"Sorry for what?"

"I'm just not being myself. It-"

"I understand, Onika. You don't have to explain to me. There's a perfect reason why you feel the way you do and I don't blame you. Just do me a favor and tell me what has put you in an extraterrestrial state. I want to know why I lost you there for a second. You came to my door and you greeted me and whatnot. Then, all of a sudden, Bam! My Nicki went somewhere and I don't know to where. Talk to me."

"Well, it's just been a rough couple of weeks for me. Ever since Drake and I returned from Bora Bora, I've just been meeting a lot of stress. Like seriously, I haven't had this much stress since I was in school. I just don't understand why so much of it, you know? Like I feel this is unnecessary and it's cruel to me. I'm not like this. It's a different ball game when you're not the one in my shoes but I really don't think people realize that and it's just annoying. Plus I'm---nothing, it's just all over the place."

"No, it's not nothing. Is there something specific that you want to talk about. I know it may be hard to opt the main thing that may be bothering you but I know it's there."

"Well..." Nicki wanted to really say what was wrong but she felt that if she talked about it then it would just make her upset and uncomfortable. "Honestly, Lauren, I don't want to speak of it."

"But I know you and so I know that if you don't talk about it to someone then it shows in the way you carry yourself. I mean, I'm totally fine if you want to just talk to D about it because it might be more suitable with your husband but please understand that you need to get it out and that I am here."

"Okay..." Nicki started, taking a deep breath. "It's work and meeting expectations, it's the family driving nuts about certain things, it's the baby..."

"The baby? As in child? As in infant? As in pregnant?"

Nicki looked up from playing with her gold bracelet and bit her lip. "I'm nervous. I have a bad feeling."

"Onika, you're pregnant?!?"

"Well... no, I don't think I am right now and that's the issue. On top of everything else, I basically feel like I'm living up to this expectation of having children and pleasing everyone else. You see, me, I wanted to just wait a little longer but it's hard when you're in the middle and everyone is looking down on you, wanting and pleading, and getting upset over the fact that they want something and you haven't given it to them yet. It's frustrating  But I agreed to go ahead and start now but I don't feel time likes me. It's been a couple days and here I am still going about my day like I was, say, a week a go. Something's not right with that."

"You're focusing on the negative. Putting that stress on yourself doesn't make things better. The fact that you've just come back from vacation and you feel the need to stress--something's not right with that. Sometimes it just takes a couple of times to try, kind of like a test. Or maybe you just didn't get any symptoms  I will still get checked out to make sure and stop your trouble. But I want to tell you that it's a beautiful thing what you're doing. You're taking that time in your life to please your family, which it a hard thing to balance. But I'm sure you're fine. Don't become discouraged. I wish you nothing but the best. BTW, I can't wait to become an auntie," she smiled. "Oh girl, come and give me a hug."

Lauren pulled Nicki in for an embrace, which surprisingly cheered her up. Nicki kissed Lauren temple and thanked her. She then sat back and pulled out her cellular. She would have to take advice this time around because it was helpful to her and put her at ease.


Onika gleamed at one bland pregnancy home test two days later that sat among others, awkwardly positioned on her marble brown, white and gray sink. It was torture. It was bringing stress. Icy liquid surfaced her eye lids as she began to think and worry. Why did it have to take twenty tests to finally deliver a positive message? If that was even the case. All the test she took was saying the same thing. Disappointment and surrender made her stop. She angrily got up and stormed to the kitchen to get a zip lock bag and returned. As soon as she reached the bathroom, she grabbed all of the tests from the sink and stuck them in there. Because the situation was becoming stressful, a nap was a must to calm her nerves. She lie across the bed as if someone had just thrown her there and left for better.

Nicki was still asleep as Drake came into the house. As he ran up the stairs, happily to dish out good news, he found little clear pebbles trailed from his bedroom to the outside bathroom, but with no specific pattern. It didn’t seem right. He, with no rush, entered the room to see his wife crossed over the lace spread. Her hair reached from out her roots to any place elsewhere. He walked over to her and caressed the top half of her back. Then he picked up the clothes bin and took it to the laundry room.

Just as soon as he shut the door behind him, Nicki flamed up like a fire would. The heavy pressure of the door was too much. That was also starting to become a problem. Scratching the side of her head, her body made its way off from the bed. She followed his scent all the way to the lowest level. He had a delightful smell that wasn’t hard to find. He had been pouring some detergent in the washer. While he did, Nicki pulled one of the three doors shut; the laundry room had three doors for entrances because of how large it is. His head quickly made same direction to the nose that came from the door. How all of a sudden did the door shut with no air breezing through? Going to the door closest to him, the door diagonal to him shut. He stopped and stood there for a moment until the third door swung open. He made it over in time before that door decided to magically shut also. Behind the wall and outside of the door, he found a dry pair of eyes occasionally looking up to his. He brought his hand up to her forehead to feel it.

“Baby, what are you doing?” He stepped out of the room. “And where are your pants? Not that you not having on pants is a problem b--”

Her eyes traced up to his. He was befuddled, yet worried.

“I couldn’t sleep,” she admitted.

“Um, is everything good with you? You seem kind of out of it.”

She grabbed him and began to lead him somewhere.

“We need to talk.”

“Well okay then.”

They sat on the comfortable couches, her facing more to him. Sadness filled her eyes. There was something that was just really off. Out of all the time Drake had been with her, he never saw her look like something big had just walked out of her life.

“Baby, tell me what’s wrong,” he told her, impatiently.

“Okay so I think we need to make a trip to the doctor’s office.  I’ve taken these pregnancy test and they are all saying the same thing. It’s almost been two weeks, Aubrey, so I’m just so confused. I didn’t know conceiving a baby was supposed to feel like this.”

“But are there any signs?”

“Yeah,” she said, gently. “I didn’t get my menstrual.”

“Oh yeah?”

“I’m four days late. I’m hoping that means a good thing but I’m tired of worrying so I just want to see our progress.”

“Right. Whatever you want to do is fine with me; I’ll be there. We can do that. Do me a favor… go and take a hot shower and let me get dinner situated or did you eat yet?”

“You are truly everything,” she commented. “No,” she said, holding her stomach with the intentions of feeling and hearing growls. She wanted to tell him she wasn’t very hungry but it was best to do what he thought was best for that moment. The heavenly thoughts of hot water dressing her body with droplets were postponed as she said nothing and made it back to her room. At the exact same time, Drake contemplated on what to cook and or where to get it from. But before he did that, he had to make a personal call to Nicki’s doctor. It was only out of blessings that he would be able to check on her the next morning. Immediately after, he had to call 40.

“Yeah, what’s up?” 40 said through the other line.

“Hey, I need you to do me a favor. You’re with Ana right?”

“Yup.”

“I need y’all to cancel for tomorrow. I probably won’t be able to make it. Onika is stressed. I’ve been observing this for a couple of days, truthfully. Just let me make sure she is okay and I’ll get back to you.

“Oh word? Take care of that woman for me, okay?” 40 joked.

“Ha! I will. Thank you. Later.”

“Alright, later.”

He was now standing in front of the sink, letting the suds of soap flatten on his skin. He rinsed and dried his hands with the deep gray cloth that was dangling on the side f the cabinet. Then he grabbed the contents needed to start dinner. This being his first time making a casserole, he google searched some recipes for goodness sake. The thing keeping him focused wasn’t how good the food was; he merely wanted to feed his despaired wife. He sprayed and assorted the veggies and other ingredients in the clear dish pan. Quickly he sprinkled spices over every layer. That process had only taken him a few moments. The next thing he has to do was work on the side dishes and drinks.

Nicki, almost an hour later, came strolling down the stairs, quietly. The mouthwatering and invigorating aroma of the assumed garlic bread brought her tongue to both of her lips. She stood back so she could watch the love of her life finish dinner. He was weighing the two cups of his hand, pouring a nice and very red drink into the glasses, his army green shirt hugging his muscles. The radio, near the window, played soft jams. Being that his serious and focused face had appeared, she couldn’t refrain from snickering. He looked sexy to her while he sat the glasses back on the counter. She knew he was almost finished so she went in the den and watched some TV. In the interim, Drake turned off all the sires and made sure his plates were nice. He then headed upstairs to get her not knowing she had already come down. She figured he was looking for her after hearing her name bring called. Once he found her in the den, he smiled softly and offered his hand out to her. He took her in the dining room area and got her settled. Her brought her plate and drink and said a little grace over the food.  Just as soon as he was done, Nicki had dived into her food. She grew hungry over that hour and was really ready to eat. He smiled to himself knowing that he had done okay on the food. Either that or she was just really hungry.

“This is heaven,” she commented.

He grinned at her then asked, “Are you feeling any better?”

“Actually, I feel much better, thanks to you. I called my mom and talked to her for a couple of minutes too so I’m good. Enough about me. How was your day, babe?”

“No, never but it was good.” He decided to with hold on the good news until a later time. At these moments, he knew she was working hard and some attention wasn’t hard to give her. From his view now, she looked as content as she said she was. That’s truly where his happiness came from; knowing she was good emotionally, physically, and what not, set him on a road to being a happy man, rapper and husband. After dinner, Drake took the dishes to the sink. He had a little surprise for her after she wasn’t feeling so bloated. He peeked in the den every now and then to check on her as he stood against the wall in the hallway. Sooner than later he made way into the kitchen to make her dessert. It wouldn’t take more than five minutes to prepare. Since he once saw this on the television and had the factors for it, he knew exactly what he was doing.

For a splash of excitement, he drizzled a fresh lemon on top of the miracle whip and then delivered her dessert. She looked up when she felt his presence.

“Since you don’t like blueberries, lemon cranberry yogurt parfait for you, lovely.”

Her eyes grew animated the same time her tongue. She clutched the little floral bowl inside her hands and ate. She took a spoonful and put it up to his mouth so he could taste what he made.

“Mm, good but you go ahead. I’m not feeling dessert right now.”

“No, stay with me.”

“Okay,” he responded.

 He laid his head against the couch and they watched ATL for a few. Drake made little comments on how funny some of the scenes were. He rubbed and massaged her leg as she finishes eating.

“Thank you, baby boy,” she said after a while. “Weird, I am getting tired." She said, her legs reaching the floor and her finger pressing the power button on the remote.

“Alright. I’ll be up shortly.” He kissed her lips and found himself back in the kitchen, washing the dishes and putting up the food.

Making his way into their bedroom, he found her knocked out. It was starting to feel stuffy so he adjusted the temperature on the central air, hooked his phone on the charger, and then got into bed.

His alarm got then up the next morning. They were a couple of seconds on their way out the door to the doctor’s. They made it to the appointment safely, although there were multiple cars that seemed to be dealing with some outer space issues while driving. Walking off the elevator, they witnessed a young girl, shouting at the top of her lungs. Blood was seeping though the ace bandage that had covered her cut she got from a knife, they overheard her mom tell another woman. Cautiously the two went to the desk to alert the clerk why they were there and were on time.

“Your name?” April, the clerk, had said.

“Onika Maraj-Graham.”

“Gotcha. Just fill this out,” she said, handing over a clipboard, “and someone will be with you momentarily.”

They took a seat. Drake picked up a magazine and scanned through it, Nicki still filling out the papers. A nurse with short, gray and curly hair and skin the color of a milk chocolate bar had appeared.

“Onika Graham?” She looked around until she saw Nicki gather her purse and papers. All of her emotions hid behind her as she walked through the corridors that seemed to expand more and more the more she walked. She was directed to a room painted with blue and green circles. She got her blood pressure, height and weight checked. After being asked of any health concerns, she was left to scan the designs on the wall. Out of nowhere, she was starting to feel sick. Maybe it was the typical smell of a hospital. Or maybe it was just that her doctor was taking his time to come. He came in seconds after that thought.

“Onika,” he greeted. “Mr. Graham.” He also greeted Drake who was sitting in the leather chair in the corner.  “How are we feeling today? I got a call from hubby last night,” he chuckled. “He sounded like he needed some help shall I come to the rescue?”
“Yes,” she replied, nonchalant.

“All right, good. Now lay back.” He went over to the sink and washed his hands. Then he came back over to check on her body. He asked a few questions, her answering to the best of her ability. When he was done, she sat up and babbled on after being asked what problem she was having. She grabbed her purse and proceeded to pull out the zip lock bag. By now, anger had germinated within her soul.

“Dr. Parker, we’ve been trying for almost two weeks straight,” she started, individually slamming every pregnancy test down on the white patty-like paper until she slammed down the thirteenth one. “And I don’t and can’t understand these results. I was trying to let it not rattle in my bones but I’m a few days late for my period and I really don’t know what’s going on.” Drake was surprised. For one, he didn’t know she took so many and second, he didn’t know that she brought them and had the audacity to pull them out of the clear, plastic bag. The doctor looked as if this was the first time he saw someone do this.

“Okay…” he said, going to put on a pair of gloves. “Let’s take a look here.” He picked up the test and watched the black line go across the small screen. “What we’re going to do is look at an ultrasound just to make sure we don’t see anything that can be harmful and then we will continue with test.”

He picked up all the pregnancy test and tossed them in the trash. Then he had her lie on her back and lift up her shirt. He poured some cold, blue jelly on her stomach and rolled over her belly with the mouse. From what he could see, she seemed normal. There was nothing unusual that was there. He then went out and had her do another pregnancy test, in the style of a hospital. He left the room for a moment to give her some time to herself. Someone would have to come and do her blood work. She looked over to Drake, shaking her head but not saying a word. He didn’t want her to be worried about it so calm he remained. He began reading the information on the posters hanging around the room.

The nurse had been in the room a little after the doctor left. She made convo. with Nicki to try and draw some of the worry out of her. It was a tactic used for kids too. If they need shots done or even stitches, you make funny faces or you give them candy. This was the same. Nicki felt alleviation after talking to the nurse. Nurse Cindy cleaned the site with an antiseptic first. She took an elastic band and wrapped it around Nicki’s upper arm to apply pressure for the vein to bulge with blood. Nicki waited patiently as the nurse brought the needle closer to her skin. She inserted the needle to the inside of the elbow. She looks away to Drake feeling heavier pain than before. The nurse removed the needle and covered her skin with an adhesive bandage to cease the bleeding that had occurred.

After feeling a little light headed and throbbing in her arm, she sat back. The nurse left to cook up the results of the blood test. Drake got up and stood by her side. He grabbed a small rectangular notepad sitting by the sink and started fanning her face. He kissed her forehead and watcher her Dr. come back in after he received the results. Nicki sat up, slowly and waited for her doctor to speak.

“Well… I have the results of your test.”

Their ears flared up and they listened to what was next. He started to explain the point of taking the test and what it would it detect.  He went on to imply that her HCG level wasn’t very high and FSH levels elevated. This made her grab onto to Drake’s hand.

“…and this diminished ovarian reserve is a condition where the quantity of eggs is decreased, this making it a little difficult… you know, to conceive,” his words so careful constructed to deliver the news to not augment the bruises already breathing on her sentiments. “What are like to do in these cases is give the patient a list of different options since there are a number of reasons behind the cause of it.” And then he went on about getting this list, plus additional information about infertility. Nicki had nothing else to do but be shocked and in a daze. After she had looked at the papers, she didn’t want to have to go through another process to have a baby. She wanted to do it the normal way and everything be okay.

Drake, lost for words and also shocked, could only do what she wanted and what she needed. He held her tight in his arms, her forehead pressing through the fabric of her shirt. Once he gave her few words, it made her realize that although this is something she would have never thought of dealing with, she has a purpose in life and they were both strong even to deal with it together.  He wasn’t trying to make her forget about it because news like that was just simply hard to forget. He just didn’t want her to fall into a deep and life threatening depression.

They headed out after the doctor’s appointment to pick up a prescription then to home. Drake was quiet and wanted to say something but didn’t want to upset her or make her anymore sad. He held her hand and flashed a quiet grin at her although she wasn't looking at him.

Randomly while almost falling asleep, Nicki sat up and reached over to kiss him on the cheek while he was driving. She had dried tear stains on her cheeks but that didn’t stop the lovely feeling of support she got from him.

“Thank you, Aubrey for always being there for me. We will get through this… I know that’s what you want to tell me.”

For a new Dricki story, you can follow this link and engage yourself!  http://aandejustforthesummer.blogspot.com/2012_06_01_archive.html Tweet @MissMinaj341 for more.
Simmy :*

Chapter 38 - Beauty of a Lifetime

For the most part, the trip in Bora Bora was astonishing. The weather was soothing, the people were friendly, and the stress was put away. The cabin house was full of life—chandeliers hanging from the ceiling, beautiful lotus flowers in certain areas, complementing the celestial designs, marble flooring and space grand for two.

Austere paint flared across the room greeted by the antiquated artwork in the bathroom. It was something like paint wall the way its design formed into any kind of design.

Time seemed to fly as the trip whined down; Drake and Nicki would leave near midnight. But now as they sat above the water, at the table, eating a savory and famous dish, the atmosphere whispered in bubbles of tranquility and true love. Shortly they would go for the private dusk cruise tour to admire the peaceful environment and the gleaming basin of water.

The scenery was as great as Alexander himself. The two got to experience something different in their vacay time, opposed to always being in an environment where they are sealed to other people.* Not that it is ever a bad thing… it’s just the whole point of going somewhere with someone is to be with that person. At least that is what one would think.

“She wouldn’t believe all of this, I’m telling you,” Nicki commented, adding a snicker before popping something into her mouth.

Before Drake replies, he chuckles, his head in a downward position and his hand sweeping around his hair line.

“But you know what? TM or Drizzy fans probably wouldn’t either.”

“I know but shush. Don’t open your mouth about it, okay?”

“That’s not even to worry about.”

She took a break before opening her mouth again. “As much as I enjoy it here, I kind of miss being on my feet. I’m not used to being off for this long. Feels amazing though, I must say.”

“You know what your peeps would say about that. I think you deserve this. Don’t worry about anything, you hear me?”

“Mhm,” she responded. “I think I’m done eating.”

“Alright. No dessert?”

“No, I’ll save that for later,” she winked.

“Oh, okay…?” His face in a questioning, yet happy glance.

“Um, yeah. It’ll be on the cruise, the refreshments and junk to make me fat.”

“Oh.”

“Ha-ha, I love you pumpkin pie.”

Just as soon as she was pushing her chair in to leave, two recruits came over to clear their table.

“Did you guys enjoy your dinner?”

“Yes,” they said on accord.

Smiling, the recruits responded, “Can we get anything else for you lovely people?”

“Nah, we’re good,” Drake responded. “Thank you.”

He remained in his seat, finishing his drink as they cleaned up the table.

Nicki made her way back in to start getting ready for the prolonged cruise. First she had to begin to get her stuff back in her suitcases. Right after the cruise, they would be heading back home. This time they felt leaving late in the night was a little better. Plus the grumpiness would have to wait its turn. In the time that they had been there, they had promised they wouldn’t answer any calls or emails unless it was from family. Although Nicki hadn’t found out yet, Drake had to send something urgent to 40 because he didn’t want him to worry. Not a big deal, right?

Speaking of the Devil, Drake had trailed in to also freshen himself. He was starting to get his stuff together but then something on the television caught his eye so he watched it. Then something on the television made him look at his phone. He pulled it out and turned it on. While searching through something, Nicki came out the bathroom. He hadn’t heard her but definitely knew she was there when she started pounding on him. With him laughing, he picked her up and slammed her on the bed.

“What is this?” she questioned.

“Damn, calm down. I wasn’t doing anything.”

“Looked like you were doing something from my view. No phone, Aubrey.”

“And you are?”

Instead of receiving a response, he received a strangle around the neck. She made it on top of him, whacking him with just her hands and then she brought in the pillows. A pillow went from his neck to his chest. Yet again he picked her up, she losing her diamond painted towel, and placing her down gently. He slowly kissed her lips while slowly removing the pillow from her hand. He took it and banged it near her abdominal area. The room was starting to fill with laughter and “stops.” Eventually he did, but that wasn’t it.  She was putting on her tank top for her dress when she felt something heavy go across her hip and knock her down. Being on her stomach, she flipped over and looked up to a grinning Drake. She stared at him until he wasn’t grinning anymore. Faking a hurt, he started to fall for it. He reached down to pick her up but she pulled his arm then climbed on top of him. She then grabbed the cover he had hit her with and smuggled him.

“How you like that?” she asked, getting up from the floor. “Keep playing with me and watch me kick your ass for real.”

He quickly got up and picked her up by her stomach. “What you say, girl?” He pinned her to the wall and tickled her.

“Ha-ha-h stop. Ha-ha. Please stop. I’m done. Please, I just showered.”

“Oh all right.” He let go of her arms and went to turn around. Out of nowhere, she jumped on his back.

“Bitch!” She laughed her way to the bed where he took her and dropped her off. It made him laugh too.

“Baby, we’re going to miss it. I haven’t even washed yet,” He said in a serious tone.

“Okay, my bad. Go ahead.”

He left for the bathroom and she finished getting dressed. When the both of them were finally ready to leave, they shut everything out and left for the cruise.

Within a couple minutes, they were boarded onto the ship and shown to their own personal space. Although this was a private tour, there were a few other people joining them on the cruise.

Nicki looked out the window of her gigantic room with anticipation loaded on her shoulders. She had looked forward to this. Being from the islands, she always welcomed the water. And Drake being fascinated with boats, jets, ships, and whatever else watercraft, also looked into ended their vacation time as so. Now as he settled into the setting of the ship, the time came to do the cruise. The first stop on the list was simply to pass by the dining room and deck and to be able to capture memories through lens of a camera. They made their way pass the halls and into the spacious dining room. It wasn’t anything to be expected. The space displayed a very modern and fresh look. Nicki excited to see a painting of Marilyn Monroe right above the side panel; near that was an audacious portrait or the President. After exploring the deck and library, they went off to the main setting to hear about the animals far deep in the water.

Going back, they grabbed some refreshments and desserts that were being held out on a tray. Glasses of champagne with strawberries slit in the middle to sit on the rim of the glass, red and white wine, and martinis were on one. On another, they were all type of pastries and mints.

“Mm, Drake, I can’t help myself. Just let me do this,” she told him, referring to the food that wasn’t in her food regimen.

“Hey,” he said, throwing both his hands up. “I ain’t saying nothing. You do you.”

Just to be on the safe side, Nicki grabbed a bowl of fruit and took it with her.

They settled in a deep brown sofa only for a short period of time to eat before landing at the side of the boat, listening and watching. As the talking went on Nicki’s attention wandered elsewhere. Something caught her attention and she kept her eyes on it.

“…covered in tiny ridges that are actually…”

“Babe, what are you doing?” whispered Drake, still hearing about sharks and their skin.

She turned her head to him quickly. “You see that right over there?” she pointed.

He looked and only saw usual and normal. “What?”

“I just see a huge button. It looks like part of the tour,” she shrugs. “Let’s go check it out.”

“You sure?” He asked, unsure.

“Mhm.” She took his hand and slid over there. There were two other women nearby but they were positioned in the front.

Nicki, a few seconds later, decided to push the button slowly without reading what was above it. A loud noise encircled the whole ship. She sat back trying not to look suspicious just before an announcer came through. No one knew it was her being that there was more than one button identical to that one. Time passed and the spiel of animals was over. There was roughly over an hour left so Drake and Nicki headed to their room. Immediately, Nicki crashed on the bed, a bit weared out. Drake placed his arm up her shirt to her back to massage it. She was gone.

He hadn’t passed out yet. He only treasured what was around him. Sooner than later, they were arriving back to the cabin house. Nicki awoke just in time to walk herself off. The both of them decided to take a walk in the sand before leaving and heading back to the states.

Walking hand-in-hand, they made conversation.

“Onika,” Drake laughed loudly to himself. She already knew what he was about to say. She wiped her eyes, letting out a smile to awake her fully.

“I know, I know.”

“Like, what were you thinking?”

“I don’t know. Oh my goodness, that was so embarrassing!” she said, suddenly gaining a burst of energy.

“Well, no one knows it was you.”

“I was the closest,” she yelled in a laugh.

He shrugged. “Just don’t touch anything next time. I was playing to take you to the Museum too.”

“No you wasn’t.” She hit him in the stomach with her bag.

“I know,” he chuckled. She yawned and they stopped walking, losing their feet in the grains of sand. The sand was like soft, golden marshmallows.  

Nicki averted to the shore. Her eyes, identical to the waves, were peaceful and compromising. She laid her head against his chest and shut her eyes.

“You know where I would like to take you, next?” Drake asked, his fingers strangling her strands of hair.

“Where?”

“I can’t tell you; it’s a surprise. You’ll have to wait and see.”

“So what was the point of you bringing it up then? You know what, Aubrey,” she giggled. “You always dot his stuff to me. I’m not even worried. As long as you’re…,” she trailed off. “ I hate you tho’,” she smiled softly.

They stood there looking out into the water. The moon shined on the water, reflecting the waves. Nicki yawned and stretched her arms.

“Tired?” he asked, pressing his lips to the side of her neck and caressing her waist. In response, she loudly moaned. She turned around to him, hugging around his backside and lying her head in the middle of his chest. After a short minute of inhaling her sweet scent, Drake began walking back. They got into the door to start getting ready to leave.

With forceful motive, Drake shoved his mouth on hers. And then he pulled away and looked directly into her gray eyes. “Come babe, let’s get ready to go.”

“No baby, I’m tired.”

“Alright, I’ll get the stuff together, aight?”

“Okay. Thank you. I love you.”

He gathered their stuff and double checked the room. Then he got both of their cell phones and turned them  on.

“Here,” he said to a half sleep Nicki. In his mind, he was wondering if she would make it to the car and to the private plane. Her eyes were barely open and her responses were bland. They only thing to do next was hurry.

One last night was all it took absorb the beauty of such an exotic place. Drake stared out the car’s tinted windows one last time. The magical time they spent there was humbling and full of schooling; they learned about things they hadn’t known before.

One last night was all it took absorb the beauty of such an exotic place. Drake stared out the car’s tinted windows one last time. The magical time they spent there was humbling and full of schooling; they learned about things they hadn’t known before.

Zzz…

Four thousand miles and many snores later, they landed back into the United States. It was exhausting for both of them. This was the longest trip away from home. There would be less than forty-five minutes before they would actually be at their home. This time Nicki was wide awake and Drake was still asleep on her lap. She took the time to get on her phone again and see what was going on in her personal world and also in social media.

Drake suddenly awakes from benightment and scrunches his eyes from the bright ray of light. Nicki looks down to her left and lets out a slight grin.

“Hey. Good morning, snoring beauty.”

“Morning sweet duck lips.”

“Mhm. The same lips that…” she gave him the side eye. “Uh huh.  I won’t even ask how you slept because I heard it all.”

“I slept well. What about you?”

She sighed. “I didn’t get too much sleep. It’s like I’m nervous or worried.  We’ve been gone for so long.”

“Well, we should be home pretty soon now,” he said, glancing out the window.

“Yeah, he said about forty-five minutes. I miss those damn dogs of ours. Our parents. Our parents. Everything.”

“Baby, it’ll be fine. We’ve only been gone for two weeks.”

“A very long two at that.” She paused in her thoughts. “Thank you. I know I’ve already said this like a thousand times but I really, really enjoyed my time there. I’m still in shock at the scenery.”

“Yup,” he agreed. “And the scenery below.” He pointed down, the direction of her lap.

Blushing and grinning, she responds, “Only you. But that’s there whenever you like. You can’t just hop up and leave the country as much as you go to the scenery,” she points down, “below.”

He leans in and kisses her on the lips. She kisses his cheek right after while he smirks. She starts thinking and looks out the window. “Guess what it is. It’s big. Very tall. Beautiful. Gets a lot of attention.”

“Statue of Liberty?”

“Gets wet when it rains. Lots of people take pictures of it.”

“Um… hair?”

“No. Come on, you got this playboy.”

“Um pus-“

“Aubrey. No.” She looks his direction. “I kind of expected that from you. It’s silver, well gray. More than one.”

“More hints, please. Is this in the U.S or out of the country? ”

“Damn it, it’s a building. And it’s in.”

“Wow, that was so simple and I didn’t get it.”

“So…? What is it, smart one?”

“Twin towers?”

“YES! About time!” she exclaims. “Good. Good job.”

“Ole, I got one. Okay so it’s long but not wide. It goes into holes. And it is propelled fast. You can get a thrill ride from this thing.”

“Ole. Of course I know this one. A pipe cleaner! Ha-ha, trust me, I’ve had those days where my sink got clogged.”

“Uh, no. Try again. It’s long but not wide. It goes into holes.  Propelled fast. You can get a thrill ride from it.”

“Really?” she said, shocked. “Oh okay. A roller coaster; gives me the thrill of my life.”

“No. Try again.”

“Damn it. What the fu—okay so it’s long but not wide… goes into holes…  Okay! I got it! A hoola hoop.”

“No.”

“Okay, then what is it? I give up.”

“A train. Shaking my head.”

“Well babe,” she laughs. “I said a roller coaster. It’s… like the same? I guess… Alright I guess it’s my turn. This thing is big. It’s pink inside. It projects a lot of things. Once it starts, it’s hard to stop.”

“Ha. Even I know that one,” the driver buds in.”

Nicki’s head turned toward the front. “Um, I’m talking to him though?”

“A penis.”

“Um, no.”

“Damn it.”

“Okay so it’s obviously moist,” she rolls her eyes. “Huge, may I mention.”

“Vag?”

"Nooo boy. Got daggit."

“Uh then?”

“Safaree’s mouth! That boy talks up a fuggin storm.”

“Wow, really?” He chuckles.

“Um, yes. I don’t mean to talk about my best friend but good golly. And he emailed me a thousand times talking about nothing. That’s why I decided to use him.”

“I figured.”

“Yes. He’s always up my ass. Did he email you this morning?”

“No.”

“Wonders.”

Before anyone knew it, they were home. The driver pulled up and they sat there for a minute. He took a hold of their luggage and that’s when they got out of the car.

“Ahhh!!!” Nicki exclaimed as she breathed the air and took glance at her surroundings. “Okay, let’s go.”

Being settled into their home, Nicki started to read the important emails and letters. She sat on the couch, one leg under the other. Meanwhile he was about to go upstairs to go back to sleep.

He could feel tension when she got up and started looking around. Safaree and Ana took watch of their home so they had delivered boxes and papers into their living room. She started to look in, phone still in one hand.

“What the… What the hell is all of this?”

“What?” Drake said, thrown off guard.

“So much shit!” Nicki sighed in frustration. “I can’t. Aubrey, no, I can’t. Please call Safaree or Ana. I can’t do this.”

“Huh? Onika, we’re not doing this now. Come on, let’s go to bed.”

“No.”

“It’s four ’o’ clock in the morning! Why are you worried about that shit when we just walked in the door?”

“Okay but look at how much stuff put on us since we’ve been gone! I can’t just not deal with it. Part of my job…”

“But it’s not getting done right at this moment because we’re going to bed.”

“No, you are.”

“Well, don’t ask me for help because and I’m tired. It’s not going anywhere.”

“Really, Aubrey?”

“Onika, don’t start. I’m going to bed. Good night.”

“But-“

Before he let her finish, he covered her mouth, picked her up and turned off the lights. “Shush. We’re going to bed now. Don’t say anything else.”

A week and days later, with a lovely evening and minds pondering, Drake, Nicki, and their mothers sat around Sandi’s table enjoying a sip of tea and biscuits. Carol perused in the kitchen, washing the dishes, and cleaning around. Nicki stood above her husband, chewing and sipping. Something had been on Sandi’s mind and it needed to be known. So as they chatted about the mundane things in life, the conversation started to take an aberration.

Just then Drake excused himself for the bathroom. Sandi smiled across to Nicki, about to speak but looking for the words.

“Onika, how is everything, huh? How is the fragrance coming along?”

Nicki sat down her mug and wiped her mouth. “Actually the fragrance testing went really well, better than I expected, and it will be out in less than two weeks. I’m really excited.”

“And you should be. I can’t wait to wear it.”

Nicki stood back as Drake walked in. “I can’t wait for you to wear it,” she giggled.

Sandi grinned again, letting her hands fall to her lap. Silence fell into the room, but only for a very short period of time. Mama Sandi spoke on something. “So… Mother’s Day is rapidly approaching.” Her eyes specifically for Nicki.

“Yeah.” Nicki listened.

“The day is yours?”

“I think so.” Ill, at ease, creped in her voice.

“Well your mom and I were talking the other day at the park and we couldn’t help but notice the cute little kiddies. Oh Nicki, I would really love some grandchildren!” Sandi pouted and shouted, all at once.

Nicki looked down to Drake, then her mother, then to Sandi. Tension within her soul built faster than any rocket. “All right, mother,” eyeing Sandi, “and mother,” eyeing Carol. “I see what this is about. I’ll see what I can do about it.”

“I don’t mean to bug you, Onika. Neither does your mother but I think you understand where we’re coming from. No pressure,” Sandi stated.

“No pressure,” Nicki promised. She then sat down and pulled her phone out. The attention was drawn off of her and to Drake. He rubbed her back as she looked down. He knew her demeanor changed.

“Ma, she’s got something else in store besides the fragrance.”

Nicki look up to Sandi, eyes twinkling. She waited for Drake to explain.

“It’s a secret so don’t share.” He became quiet.

“Okay, what is it, Aubrey?”

“Uh… a clothing line featuring Drake.”

Sandi’s eyes stood the same for a couple of seconds. “You,” she pointed at the both, “Two are doing a clothing line?! Wow!!! Guys, ‘proud’ just isn’t enough at this point. It’s beyond that. Congratulations and may it be blessed with nothing but good.”

“Thank you,” they said. Mama Carol heard and came in. She also told them congrats and grateful of how hard they work.

On Twitter, Nicki tweeted:

@NICKIMINAJ Barbz, really soon you’re going to be in for a surprise. Fav this tweet and stay patient. Luv HB xoxoxo.

RT @NICKIMINAJ @MinajikalMuzik Hm, I wonder what. Soon please, missy

RT @NICKIMINAJ: @MissMinaj341 I can’t wait!!! *favorites tweet*

RT @NICKIMINAJ: @GabJ_TeamMinaj *favs* askljbvjakbgvalkbviebglubvdkabvdjbs. ^_^

RT @NICKIMINAJ: @JustErika_ I’ll be waiting!

RT @NICKIMINAJ: @Tee_Suave  :O but Nickiiii?!?

RT @NICKIMINAJ: @DutchessOfPink MOD happy
RT @NICKIMINAJ: @XOSimmy ^_____^  What is life?!!!!! 

RT @NICKIMINAJ: @_TERRICA_MINAJ Aw H.B you got me excited!!! But… *stays patient*

RT @NICKIMINAJ: @liddobarbieboo !!! Yaaaaaay thanks HB!

 “Babe, I’m ready to leave. I want to go home now,” Nicki said after two hours. She was getting tired and they had to get ready to meet up with Wayne. A couple times a year, Young Money got together to go out and party. Tonight was one of those nights. Tyga was flying in from Miami, Mack from Dallas, Chuck and Twist from a different part of L.A.

The hours of darkness came in a flash like lightning. The entire group sat around in the booth at the club, chatting and having drinks. The soul purpose of the gathering was to catch up and enjoy a night together. As usual, the head of the group, Wayne, was being outgoing and funny. Many people continued to refer to him as “little man” being that barely anyone was shorter than he.

“Girl, guess what?” Lauren said to Nicki. Lauren looked her direction but noticed she wasn’t looking the same way. She looked over to see what she was looking at. And there was a girl standing there talking to Drake.

“Hey!” Lauren said, a little louder this time.

Nothing changed. Nicki stared until he came over to her. His smile didn’t match hers. She pulled him close to whisper in his ear. “What was that about?”

“Huh? She was talking about the new video.”

“And?” Her eyes were talking more than her words. “Looked like flirting to me.”

“Onika, wow. You think I’m going to let another woman try to put me on like that? You are pretty much tripping right now. Hit the chill.”

She watched him walk away. Rolling her eyes, she turned her head Lauren’s direction. Meanwhile Lauren was already staring at her.

“Um, hey girl!”

“Oh… sorry. What? What were you saying?”

“Is everything good with you two? You look  kind of pissed.”

“I’m good.”

“Alright. Guess who is coming tonight.”

“Who”

Lauren grinned. “Khlomar, Kimye, and Krott. They are on their way.”

“Say swear.”

“I swear.”

Gudda came in a little before. He went over to the girls to greet and hug them. Nicki was surprised to see him. Out of the whole crew, he was the one she saw the least.

“Guddaaa! Hi baby, how are you?” Nicki exclaimed, her voice elevating.

A chuckle came out of him. “All is good, Nicki. Thank you.”

A couple of people had moved to another booth because more and more people came. Most boys were at the second booth. They were drinking, smoking, talking, joking, and dancing in their seat.

“Nothing was the same,” Wayne said, diluting the success of this upcoming album.

“Nothing was the same,” Mack repeated.

“Yup. That’s right,” Drake said, adding a chortle. He took a sip of his drink and looked at the girls from the side of his eye.

“This calls for a celebration,” Wayne said, holding up one of his three cups.

“Isn’t this already one?” One commented.

“You, hush,” Wayne responded. “Let me teach y’all this one dance right here.” He excused himself out of the booth down to the main floor. “It goes a little something like this. With both of his hands up, he started to lift his right leg to where his knee was straight across. He then started to kick it out and hop back. “Then you do this…” He swayed his hands, his drink swooshing and splashing out of the rim. “Oh shit. That’s not a part of it.” All eyes were on him. They couldn’t help but laugh. When he’s building up his intoxication, he does silly things. By the time he was done showing off his new dance, he was eight feet away from them. He had hopped his way all the back there, thinking the crowd now beside him was his own.

“Mack, and you are looking at what?” The people looked at each other. He looked at them until he felt Lauren tug on his arm.

“Would you come sit down?” She brought him to the booth. Gudda jumped up and stood where Wayne was the first time.

“Y’all I think I got it.” He laughed as he was about to mock Wayne. “What you have to do is stick your leg up and toot that ass some.”

“HAHAHA. Yo, that sound just like him to!” Mack commented. Future was enjoying his first time out with the crew plus his girl. They continued to drink and talk more. The fast jam came on and everyone wanted to dance. Wayne took Lauren, Kanye took Kim, Mack grabbed a girl, Tyga took his new girl, Chyna, Lamar to Khloe, Future escorted Ciara. There were only four of them.

“Come, let’s dance.” Drake told Nicki.

“No.”

“Yo, what the fuck is your problem, Onika?”

She put her finger up. “First, don’t talk to me like that. You know better than to talk me like that. Second, you can chill. You really can.”

“Why? Why do you have an attitude?”

“It’s been a long day. I just want to get in my bed.”

“Cool.” He got up and walked away, leaving her to sit on the couch and watch everyone else. She was sitting near Scott although he was up by the bar conversating with women. Kourtney went to sit with her.

“Hey,” she told Nicki, watching the people who were just sitting with her dance with each other. She had her phone lit up in her hand.

“Hey Kourt. No dancing for you either?”

“No. Scott is being himself again, if you know what I mean.”

“Yeah honey child, I know what you mean.”

Thread-by-thread, the group started coming back in to sit down much later after they left.

“…and all I want to do is touch it,” Wayne sang. He went and sat by Nicki, putting his arm around her shoulder.

“What’s up?” He said in his more concerned voice. She looked to him, giggling before she responded.

“Nothing.”

“You’ve been sitting in the same spot for almost the whole time you’ve been here. Loosen up some, would you? Let the breeze hit your nips.”

“I can’t.” She covered her mouth to not laugh as loud. “Bye, Wayne.” Shortly, Drake made his way back over to them.

“Can I see you for a minute,” he said.

“I’ll be back, T,” she told Wayne.

Nicki went with Drake to the side of the wall, outside of V.I.P.

“You want to leave now?” he asked.

“Why all of a sudden you want to leave? What is it?”

“Um, you told me you wanted to get in the bed, did you not?”

“And did you not walk away from me? And don’t think I didn’t see that little heifer again.”

“What?”

“Why is it that I saw the same girl come up to you again? What is it that she had to tell you now? She likes your moustache?”

“I checked her. You are blowing this up. You have to understand, Onika. You’re mine. You’re the person I want. You can’t get mad at me because groupies want to come up to me but best believe I always put them in their place. I’m not going to let a woman disrespect you. You pick the time to treat me like ice when I’m really standing up for you and doing something nice for you. You just don’t see sometimes.”

She said nothing. She just stared in his eyes. She knew what he was saying was true and she was overreacting. Without a word, she went to Wayne to tell him goodbye. She told everyone else goodbye and to Drake she went.

“We should go home.”

“Alright. I’ll meet you in the car,” he told her.

From the club door to the car door…

From the car door to the house door…

From the house door to the bedroom door.

From the bedroom door to the door of trust.

Drake started speaking the truth. “Come here,” he said, leaning on the bed. He held her chin up and looked at her burgundy lips.

“Do you hear me, Onika? You really have to stop with this issue. I don’t treat you like that so I deserve the same thing from me. Better yet, let me mention that I know you’ve been under stress ever since we got back from that trip. It’s not going to kill you. You have to learn to just chill sometime. Let the candle burn. Enjoy the vanilla scent. Sip on a margarita. You know?” He chuckled lightly lifting her chin up again. “Alright? I got you, baby. I told you that from day one and I meant every word of it.”

Drizzles of water poured down her face. He held her head on his chest, letting every one of her tear drops individually ooze into his shirt. Then he put both his hands on her neck and looked into her eyes. Slowly but surely, their lips met each other. It was becoming deeper and more filled with enthusiasm. They stepped back away from the bed. She began to lift his shirt and told firmly grip to his body.

For the last time, Drake’s hand landed on her chin.

“Let’s start. Let’s make a baby.”

She smiled through her tears, excited and willing to want to do this now. He didn’t know but ever since they his mother’s house, she had been secretly thinking about the whole thing. It was time she took a break for herself and do what her family desired. It was time she did what she knew would make them happy and proud. It was time to do what her heart told her.

As more and more of their clothes came off, Drake said, “Let the rest be history.”

Sorry4TheWait. Next chapter up very, very soon! I hope everyone is well, xo.

*They aren’t in a hotel with a lot of people around and paparazzi are yet to come.