You and Stack were already broken up when you found out you were pregnant. There wasn’t a big blowout or a cheating scandal. It was just bad timing and too much pride from both of you. Even so, Stack never really let you go. He wasn’t your man anymore, but he still showed up like he was. Every doctor’s appointment you had, he was there. When he’d text you unexpectedly and see if you needed anything. It was crazy.

Now your daughter is two, all curls and attitude, with Stack’s eyes and your mouth. He’s a good father. Too good sometimes. Which is how you find yourself here at his family’s home. The family reunion is his idea. His family’s idea, really. You pull up with your daughter on your hip, and the moment they see you, it’s over.

His aunties are hugging you like you never left. Stack’s mama eventually finds you through the thicket of family members and kisses your cheek and smiles too knowingly. Not only does she love the beautiful grandbaby you brought into the world, but you as well.

“I wish you two would quit bein indecisive. That baby needs her parents together,” she whispers, like it’s settled. And before you can even get a word out, Stack is already suddenly there beside you, butting in.

“Not wit her new nigga around.” He just drops that bomb in such a petty fashion. You’re seeing someone. Everyone knows. But he’s still salty about it.