All I Want Is Forever Read online

  Every opportunity I get to make you smile I’m going to take it.

  Love, DJ

  Awe, he shouldn’t have, she thought while dialing his number.

  “Hey baby,” he answered.

  “DJ! These roses are beautiful, baby. Thank you!”

  “What?! Somebody’s sending you roses, Denise? Let me find out!” He laughed.

  “Cut it out,” she chuckled

  “You’re welcome sweetheart and I meant every word I said. I owe you so much.”

  “You don’t owe me anything. Your love and affection is repayment enough,” she admitted. “So, how’s your day going?”

  “It’s going. I just got off the phone with this singer who wants me to remix her single.”

  “Really?”

  “Yeah. She wants me to use one of my upcoming artists.”

  “That’s great!”

  “Yeah, it’s a good look. What about you? How’s your day?”

  “My day is going good. I just finished my meeting with Ted and now I’m about to work on these articles. Pray that I can get them done.”

  “You’ll get them done. I have faith in you love. So, I’ll see you tonight for dinner, right?”

  “Promptly at 8. Oh, we’re supposed to have our business meeting tomorrow, but can we do it next week?”

  “Yeah, that’s cool. Hey, baby. I gotta go. Kane’s buzzing in and I have to get this track done before I fly out on Friday. Call if you need me. I love you.”

  “I love you, too.”

  Denise sat back in the chair and turned on her computer. She began typing one of the articles due while chanting to herself. Believe it and you can achieve it. I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.

  CHAPTER TWO

  “Hey, we’re gonna do the ad-libs real quick while you're still 5 houred up,” DJ said pressing the talk back button.

  “A’ight,” Kane replied.

  “I’ma run it back. You ready?”

  Kane shook his head.

  “A’ight. Let’s go!”

  DJ pumped his hand to the beat while reciting some of the lyrics. When Kane finished he draped the headphones on the hook and opened the door.

  “It feels like hell in there! Is the air on?”

  “The air’s always on,” DJ laughed. “It’s your nerves, Kane. Just relax.”

  Kane sat down in the chair next to DJ.

  “Can I hear it?”

  “Sure, when we come back. We’ll do a few mixes before I bounce it down.”

  “Come back? Where we going?”

  DJ looked at his watch. “It’s lunch time. We’ve spent almost two hours knocking out these vocals. I’m hungry.” He grabbed the keys from the engineering board. “Come on.”

  They headed to the elevators then out the front door.

  “You get a new ride?”

  “Naw, man. This one’s the Mrs.”

  “This is nice,” Kane complimented as he opened the passenger side door.

  “Thanks. So, what you got a taste for?”

  “Shoot, we can grab something off the $1 menu at McDonald’s for real.”

  “NOT!”

  “Oh, you too good for the $1 menu?”

  “Bruh, you have no idea. I started from the bottom, for real. Just because I have a little bit doesn’t give me the mindset of being “too good” for anything. However,” DJ emphasized. “I do believe that a person’s perception is their reality.”

  “What you mean by that?”

  “It means that if you think you can’t have it then you won’t, but if you think you will then you can.”

  “I like that.”

  “Don’t like it! Understand it, believe it and apply it.”

  “It’s all good and I will apply it, but it won’t be today. I would like to have a nice meal, unfortunately, today won’t be the day. I literally have two dollars in my pocket,” he laughed, “enough for a burger, some fries and a water to wash it all down.”

  They laughed.

  “Lunch is on me, Kane. We’ll have to talk about your financial situation. If you want better you have to think bigger. Don’t limit yourself to what you see. Don’t allow your situation or circumstances to control you. You have to control them. My wife would always tell people ‘when you know better you do better’ and I would think she was being a smart aleck. I came to realize it’s as true as the statement, ‘my people perish from their lack of knowledge.’ I hope you’re ready to learn today.”

  Kane nodded. “But for the record. I haven’t always been broke. It wasn’t until I decided to give up that lifestyle for this rapping thing. Maybe that wasn’t a good idea.”

  “Why you say that?”

  “It’s rough. I don’t know how I’m going to pay my bills from day to day. Sherese is constantly complaining about what she doesn’t have. It’s really rough,” he stressed.

  “You know what I’ve learned?”

  “What’s that?”

  “I’ve learned that if you want something different you have to do something different. It’s not going to be easy, but I guarantee it’ll be worth it.”

  There was an awkward silence.

  “So, since we’re not going to McDonald’s, where are we going?”

  “Morton’s.”

  “The Steakhouse?”

  “You got a problem with that?”

  “Not at all. Morton’s is fine with me. Sherese and I used to go out to eat all the time, but we never went to Morton’s.”

  “Kane,” DJ paused momentarily. “Look, I’m telling you, start making a list of your wants; start preparing for the house, car, business, and kid’s college funds.”

  “I’d like to have all of that, D.”

  “Do you believe you can have it?”

  Kane shrugged.

  “There’s the problem. If your works and faith don’t align then it’ll never happen.”

  “You are truly ‘bout this faith stuff. I believe in God and all ‘at. I just get so frustrated at times when I feel like I’m doing the right thing and getting the wrong results. I stopped slanging to pursue this rap career and I’m still waiting to see the fruit of my labor,” Kane stated as they exited the car.

  DJ handed the keys to the valet and then walked inside. They were greeted by the hostess and seated within minutes. They took a few seconds to look over the menu.

  “To answer your question, yes. Yes, I am ‘bout this faith stuff.’ My faith and belief in God are the force behind every successful thing that is happening in my life. My business is a result of my prayers being answered by God. My wife and her business are the result of my prayers being answered by God. My kids, their health and successes are a result of my prayers being answered by God. I believe in His promises and His favor. I believe in His Word and I believe in His Son, Jesus.”

  “I feel that,” Kane nodded.

  The waiter approached the table, introduced himself, and took their orders.

  “I’ll return in a second with your drinks,” he stated before hurrying across the room.

  “So, what’s going on with you, Kane? Tell me why you want to get in the industry and what you’re hoping to get out of it.”

  “D, for as long as I can remember I’ve been beating on things and rhyming like Dr. Seuss. The Cat in the Hat was one of my favorite books. I still know Green Eggs & Ham by heart. ‘Not on a train! Not in a tree! Not in a car! Sam! Let me be!”

  They laughed.

  “But on the real, D. I have a story to tell and it’s one that cats can relate to, one that will possibly guide a few of these young brothers thru some of the obstacles and pitfalls that await them.”

  DJ shook his head.

  “I don’t think I’ve endured this struggle for nothing and if I don’t’ share my story then who will?” He paused while in thought. “Yea, I’d rather tell my story, my way, and with my own voice before some false prophet stands over my grave and wrongly misconstrues it. You feel me?”

  “I feel you.�
��

  The waiter arrived with two plates on a tray.

  “This Filet Mignon looks really good.”

  “Well, enjoy my friend,” DJ stated. “This is only the beginning. Where the mind goes, the man follows.”

  “Is that from the bible too?”

  “You know it.”

  Kane blessed the food then they began to eat.

  “Yo, D. Can I talk to you on some personal stuff?”

  “Sure. What’s up?”

  Kane exhaled deeply. “My boy came to me yesterday and propositioned me with a come up. I told him I was straight, but he could see straight through me. He read me like a Kindle Paperwhite,” he sighed. “The game is my security blanket. Whenever situations look dim, the game gives them light. It makes stuff a lot easier and less stressful.”

  “So, what are you saying?”

  “I’m saying that I don’t know how much longer I’m going to be able to do this trying something new stuff. What works for you may not work for me. Ya know?”

  “You’re giving up already? You come into some financial hardships and wanna give up – go back to what’s easiest? Man, anything that comes easy usually comes wrong. Think of the consequences, the risks, and the dis-ease which leads to disease and health problems. It’s not worth it, Kane. I promise you it’s not.”

  “I know the risks. Again, this isn’t my first time in the arena. The rap thing is taking too long.”

  “Right! I forgot we live in a world of instant gratification. Why cook something for 45 minutes in the oven when it’ll only takes five in the microwave? People and their faith is the same way. Faith takes too long when you want things right now.”

  “I have bills, D.”

  “So do I.”

  “You’ve made it! You don’t have the financial struggles that the average person has.”

  “That’s what you think?”

  “That’s what I know,” Kane stated matter-of-factly. “You have over two hundred thousand dollars worth of equipment in your studio, you wear designer clothes every day, and you and your wife are driving around in expensive cars” he laughed, “damn right you’ve made it. I’ve supposed to wait for that?”

  After lunch they returned to the studio.

  “I’ll mix this song so you can get out of here.”

  “We done?”

  “Yep. I have another artist coming in at 2:30.”

  “When do you want me to come back, tomorrow?”

  “Come back when you’re serious. I’m not going to keep investing my time and money in an artist who doesn’t want it. Why use my resources and material on somebody who’s able to get what they want much quicker than I can…obviously? A person should never let their left hand know what their right hand is doing. Know that ever seed you sow, whether good or bad, is gonna come back. I didn’t get caught up in mine…I’ll be damned if I get caught up in yours.”

  Kane’s jaw dropped.

  “Exactly.” DJ said placing the headphones over his ears. “Let me finish this and I’ll have you own your way.”

  ***

  Denise sat at the dining room table in her black, deep v-neck gown which complimented her slim neckline. She crossed her legs as she anxiously awaited DJ’s entrance. The candles illuminated the room as the music calmed the air. It was the perfect ambiance for such a special occasion.

  Helen set the table for two. One red stemmed rose lay in the center of the table.

  “I didn’t mean to keep you waiting my love.”

  Denise smiled at the sound of the voice coming from behind her.

  “All that matters is that you’re here.”

  DJ kissed the top of her head while tracing her shoulders with his fingertips.

  “Baby, you smell really nice.”

  “I do it all for you girl.”

  Denise chuckled as DJ took his seat.

  “What am I going to do with you?”

  “Continue to love me.”

  “That’s easy,” she smiled.

  “Good evening Mr. and Mrs. Chatman,” Helen interrupted, filling the wine glasses with Denise’s favorite red wine, Voyager Estate Shiraz. “Dinner is ready if you are.”

  Denise looked at DJ who replied, “We’re ready, Helen.”

  Helen returned a few minutes later with a cart containing the food she had prepared for the occasion.

  “We have salmon, asparagus and garlic mashed potatoes. I added those because I know how much you like them, Mr. Chatman,” Helen spoke softly to DJ.

  He smiled. “Thank you so much.”

  “Happy anniversary to the two of you. May God continue to bless you with many more and may you find new reasons to love one another as you are loved. See you soon.”

  “Thank you for a beautiful meal and be careful going home.”

  Helen smiled then disappeared down the long hallway.

  “A toast,” DJ announced, raising his glass as Denise followed suit. “To my wife. You are every fiber of a virtuous woman. Thank you for fourteen years of friendship, seven years of marriage, and a great expectation of what’s to come. You are a model wife, a wise mother, and an outstanding best friend. God has truly shown me favor with you. Might I add, you look absolutely stunning in that dress,” he smiled as their glasses touched. “So, to you and to us. To our union, our commitment and our love. Happy anniversary baby.”

  ***

  “I can’t believe we still watch this movie and react as if it’s our first time seeing it. Why?”

  “I guess because each time is truly like the first time. Each time we see something different, ya know?” DJ asked.

  “I guess. Ooh, this is my part. ‘Dre I need you to be happy for me. I need you to be there for me, just like you asked of me. So - so I can have tea and eat cucumber sandwiches with the crust cut off!’ I love that!”

  “You are something else.”

  “Well, I’m your something else, Mr. Chatman.”

  “That you are. That you are.”

  He wrapped his arms around Denise’s waist and pulled her close.

  “All I want is forever,” he whispered.

  “Forever’s all I’ve got.”

  CHAPTER THREE

  “DJ! Where are your business cards?”

  “Look in my office on the second shelf,” he replied.

  “I found them. Are you ready? We have thirty minutes to get you to the airport.”

  “I’m waiting on you.”

  Denise ran down one side of the split staircase.

  “You’re wearing that to the office?”

  “What’s wrong with it?” She asked surveying her attire.

  “Nothing’s wrong with it. I just don’t see you wearing jeans and polos to work that often.”

  “Well, today is a special day. I’m actually having an employee appreciation cookout.”

  “Who’s grilling?”

  “I am.”

  “Denise, you don’t know how to handle a grill.”

  “Ugh! I’m insulted,” she said placing her hand over her heart.

  “Whatever. You want me to call dad and have him come thru and grill? You know he’ll do it.”

  “I can’t believe you don’t have faith in me and my grill skills.”

  “I’m calling dad,” he laughed.

  “You suck all the fun out of life. I’ma hurry up and get you to the airport,” she joked.

  “It’s okay because you’ll be the first one missing me while I’m gone.”

  “Oh, hush! Come on here! We have to be on the 112 by 12!” She yelled as she playfully slapped him on the forearm.

  ***

  “We could’ve taken my car.”

  “You must have gas today.”

  “The same gas you put in it the other day.”

  “Figures.” Denise shook her head. “So, how you feel about your meeting today?”

  “I feel really good. I have everything I need in my bag and briefcase.”

  “I’m so excited for you and I can’t wait
to hear all about it when you get home tomorrow.”

  “Oh shoot!”

  “What? What’s wrong?”

  “I forgot to pick up my tux for the party.”

  “Don’t worry about it. Either myself or Helen will pick it up for you. I gotcha’ covered.”

  “Thank you,” DJ sighed.

  “Delta, right?”

  “Yes, love.”

  Denise pulled over to the curbside.

  “I love you, have a safe flight and I’ll see you when you get back.”

  “I love you, too.”

  He leaned over and gave her a sensual kiss before grabbing his bags from the back seat.

  “Be careful.”

  “I will.”

  DJ waved as the automatic doors opened then closed behind him.

  As Denise pulled off, merging onto the interstate and into traffic, she smiled. We are truly living out our dreams. This is freakin’ amazing!

  Several minutes later her phone rang. She answered via speaker phone.

  “You miss me already?” She questioned.

  “I missed you once I got out of the car. You almost at the office?”

  “No, I have to stop at Publix’s first and pick up some meat.”

  “You’re really serious about this grilling thing aren’t you?”

  “Why wouldn’t I be? You really don’t think I know how to grill, do you?”

  “I know you can, baby. I was playing with you; however, I also know there are some articles that need to be finished.”

  “I’m going to finish them, DJ.”

  “When?”

  She didn’t answer.

  “That’s what I thought. We have the party tomorrow, then next week’s schedule is as busy as this week’s. So, I’ve called dad. He’s going to meet you at the office.”

  “DJ!” Denise whined.

  “DJ nothing. He’s already in route. I’ll call him and let him know you’re stopping at the store first, but you’ll be there shortly. Okay?”

  “Okay,” she sighed.

  “I’m only doing it because I love you and I need you to finish those articles.”

  “Thank you.”

  “You’re welcome. Okay, well they’re boarding my flight. I’ll talk with you later. Be careful.”

  “You too, baby.”

  ***