Chapter 23: Payday

Karas POV

Mother gave me a hug. She was more upset by her death than I was. I did not know the woman. She may have. But I did not remember her. When I met her I was so young. I was sad because she died. She was my father's mother. So I might give my father a call and give my condolences.

I went upstairs and took a shower. I then decided to call my father. It was just ringing. He finally answered.

" Yes honey." he asked.

" I was calling to apologize about grandma passing away," I stated.

" Thank you honey." he stated.

" Your welcome." I stated.

I then hung up the phone. Today couldn't get any worse? Could it. First the business at the diner, then my grandma died. It was just not a good day. I decided that I might take a bubble bath to relax. I needed it today. I know I have already taken a shower. But sometimes you need a little TLC.

I went downstairs where mother was cooking dinner. She was making smothered burritos. I loved smothered burritos.

" Can I help you?" I asked.

" Sure, baby doll." she stated.

I went to work filling the tortilla shells. Then I wrapped them up and placed them in the cake pan. Mother had made her homemade green chili sauce. So I knew it was going to be good. I then cut up the lettuce and tomatoes and started to cut the avocado. Mother liked to make guacamole.

I finished helping mother with dinner, and she put it in the oven. I then helped her set the table. The timer on the oven went off. Dinner was done. We sat down to eat.

" How was your day?" she asked.

" It was OK." I responded.

We finished dinner. I then went upstairs and laid down. I was thinking about putting on a movie. But I decided to go to bed. I was tired. I fell into a restless sleep. The next thing I knew it was time to get up. I started getting ready for work. I had to be there at 8 this morning. I finished getting ready for work.

I got to the diner at 7:55. I was right on time. It looked like we were already busy. The tables were full. I started waiting on my tables. Today was payday as well. I was going to get my check after I got off. I was going to walk to the bank on the corner. I was going to open a checking account.

I finished my shift and went to the office and got my check. I opened the envelope. My check was $400. I was surprised that it was that much. The biggest check I have ever had was $250. I worked long hours at my last job. I clocked out and went to the bank. I walked with Marcus following me in the car.

I understood that David wanted to keep me safe. But I can defend myself. I knew enough karate now that I could put up a fight. I may not win, but I could get away if necessary. I walked into the bank. Those men were there conducting their own business. They looked to be getting alot of cash out. I finished opening my checking account. I got 200 dollars in cash for spending money.

The rest I put in a checking account. It would take 7-10 business days for my debit card to arrive. So I would have access to cash until then. Also, I will get paid again between now and then. My legs were starting to hurt. From being on my feet and from walking. I haven't stretched in a while. I decided that I would go home stretch and go for a run.

I also wanted to stop at the gym that was down the street. I needed to start building muscle in my legs and arms. I went into the gym and the front desk girl gave me the price list. It was only going to be about $200 a month. Which was fine. I also needed to work with a personal trainer while going through this.

My personal trainer was a female, who I was happy about. I'm trying to keep myself as busy as possible. I was about to turn around and leave when David walked in.

" Hey baby." he stated.

" Hey." i responded.

"What are you doing here?" he asked.

" I want to start working out in the gym," I stated.

" OK." he stated.

" I think you look great the way you are," he stated.

I gave him a kiss and he grabbed my hand.

" Where are you going?" he asked.

" I'm going home to stretch and go jogging." I stated.

" Why don't you go next door and buy a work-out outfit and join me," he stated?

" OK." I stated.

He gave me a handful of cash. I was shocked. There must be at least $600 in this bundle. I did not know what to think. Why was he doing this? I knew we were trying to date and everything. But I could afford to buy my own things. That is why I'm working at the diner. I did not want to rely on a man to take care of me.

I went next door to the little exercise store. There were outfits, weights, and equipment all over. The cheapest outfit was $150. But it had everything with it. It came with two different sports bras and underwear to match a pair of shorts and a pair of jogging pants. Two jackets and a gym bag. I also bought a new pair of shoes.

I went next door and went and changed in the locker room at the gym. I then went to find David. He was running on the treadmill. I stopped and admired his back side. He had a nice muscular butt. I was standing there when a woman came up to him and started flirting with him.

I was impressed he stopped her.

" Ma'am I'm taken thank you." he stated.

It was kind of rude the way he said it. I did not care. I have never been with anyone who would state that they are taken. Usually they let them flirt and get their number. But David did not. She tried to give him her number, and he refused to take it. I was glad. I then walked up to him and kissed him hard on the lips.

" Baby you keep giving me those kinds of kisses, we will end up having sex where we are," he whispered in my ear.