She Love me NOT, She loves me

She loves me not, She loves me

A journey of finding oneself and true love

This is a Greenville Story

PREAMBLE RAMBLE: This is my first attempt at writing a lesbian based story. I know, I know. It's like any other story, but with women. I thought about placing this in the Lesbian Category, but decided on Romance because it's a love story.

I've been at this for almost 4 months. I've finished and posted 22 stories since I started this one. I wanted to tell the story of Yvette, but couldn't find the right storyline that was compelling enough. So it sat, I would write a little, then it would sit and I would write a little more. I wrote February Sucks in Greenville, and it had a character I felt would be great for this story. Several characters appear in previous stories.

I don't know about other writers but posting for me is excruciating. I know you can't please everyone. But I try my best, and hope you get some enjoyment out of it.

Thanks to my anonymous editor for making my story better. But, still, any mistakes are mine.,

I hope you enjoy the story.

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Yvette hated attending these types of events. This particular event was for Black Women in Business. Her brother and boss, Barry, and his partner, Darren, felt it was good, for business and for her, to attend these types of events. She was the Chief Financial Officer of the company, Allied Carolina Rubbish. Being one of the largest trash companies in the Southeast, it was expected for the officers of the company to attend these business and civic events. It didn't help that Darren landed one of their largest contracts by meeting someone at an industry function. At least this one was local. The worst was when she had to travel and stay overnight.

She was dressed in a nice blue blazer and matching pencil skirt, with two-inch heels. There was no need to be uncomfortable since she expected to be on her feet most of the evening. She drove her BMW M60 to the Greenville Marriott. She wondered why this was held on a Tuesday night. Some people have to work the next day.

She made sure she wasn't the first person there, nor the last. This wasn't expected to be a large event. Maybe 50 to 60 people. Black women-owned businesses are the fastest-growing business segment, with a growth rate of 20% since 2017. The problem is, most of them are micro businesses with fewer than 5 employees and revenues of less than a million dollars. The company she represented earned 12 times what everyone in attendance did combined. Darren and Barry believed in giving back. They had mentorship programs for small businesses to help them grow. They felt that someone helped them when they were starting, and it was only right to pay it forward. Yvette was currently working with Sally Jennings, who owned a soul food restaurant, and Sharon Bryant, who was trying to obtain funding to start a company that recycles tires into decorative paving stones.

Entering the event hall, she was greeted by several people she knew personally. Having grown up in the city and having the position she does, makes her pretty well known. She was making the rounds when she noticed more people approaching her throughout the evening than normal. It wasn't the usual conversation. She noticed ladies pitching their business ideas or talking about expanding their business. She realized the cat was out of the bag. Darren and Barry had been talking about investing in small businesses in the city along with Reggie Baynard, one of their Vice Presidents, who made quite a bit of money investing in the stock market. They were only in the planning stages right now. She could understand their eagerness to get their foot in the door.

While talking to a young lady about her nail salon, she spotted a woman who was standing off by herself. She wasn't really circulating. She was very attractive, a little above girl-next-door pretty. Dress professionally. Mocha colored skin, 5'5' medium weight with braided hair and long legs. Yvette was intrigued. She thought about how she would look in a skirt and high heels with those legs. Her gaydar went off, and she was trying to figure out a way to approach her. No one knew of Yvette's sexuality. It's something she kept to herself.

She remembered how she always found girls more attractive than boys. She's never had a boyfriend. She was never interested in them at all. And the girlfriends she had didn't last long because she was afraid of being found out.

She remembered her mother calling a girl in the apartment building a bull dyke, and her saying how nasty that is. She knew then that she could never share her secret with her mother. She didn't dress like a lesbian, if there was a lesbian dress code, at least to her. She always wore dresses, skirts, or nice pantsuits. She had her hair long. She didn't dress like the bull dykes in the neighborhood. They acted more like men than women. She wasn't attracted to those types of women. She preferred a more feminine girl. She liked softness over hard.

That made it hard to find a partner at first. How could you tell if someone was a lesbian if they didn't "Look" gay? In college, she met a girl who used to be in the Navy and was obviously a lesbian. She had short hair with a fade, always wore jeans and t-shirts. She was always with a girlfriend or girlfriends.

Gayle, the navy lesbian, approached her one day after class. She was lucky to be in college. She never thought she would be in this position; except for her brother's company, which was paying her way through Greenville Community College. It allowed her to take some business courses. She was going to work for their company when she graduated.

Gayle asked her out to lunch one day. She was surprised because they never really talked, even though they shared some classes. Intrigued, she accepted. Gayle had a sly smile when Yvette agreed to the lunch date.

They met off campus at Libby's Diner the next day. Gayle was waiting for her when she got there.

"Glad you showed up, I was worried you might change your mind," Gayle said, giving her a hug.

"No, I was running late. My mom asked me to drop her off on the way here. Needless to say, I was surprised when you asked me out. It came out of the blue."

"Why would you say that? You're an attractive woman. I've noticed you the first time I saw you in class."

Yvette blushed at the compliment. Before she could respond, the waitress came to take their order. Yvette ordered a chef salad, and Gayle got fish and chips.

"As I was saying, I was surprised you asked me out. I saw you with that girl, Sharonda, for a minute. What's up with that?"

"Yeah, we were tight for a minute. Were being the keyword. She decided she liked dick more than pussy.' She leaned forward to whisper the last part with a laugh. 'Plus, we weren't that tight anyway. She was more of a distraction than anything."

"Oh, so you're trying to make me your next distraction? Is that what this is about? And I have to ask, what made you think I would be interested in this type of relationship?"

Gayle smiled as she doused her fish with ketchup and took a bite. "I knew I was gay when I was 11, and I punched a boy for trying to kiss me. That's the closest I've ever come to a straight relationship,' she said with a laugh.' I've known all types of lesbians, butches like me, Femmes, Lipstick, Studs, and LUGs, you're definitely a Femme"

"Feeme, what the hell is that?"

Laughing with a mouth full of fries, Gayle said, "It means You present as a straight woman. You probably get approached by men quite a bit don't you?' Yvette gestured yes. 'I'm notthe type of woman you're attracted too. You like a more feminine woman right?"

"Well, not to be rude but you're right." Yvette responded, not wanting to hurt Gayle's feelings.

"And its hard for you to identify who is gay and who isn't huh?"

"Well, its not like we walk around with a sign or something."

"Yeah, true, I can tell you haven't got your gaydar up yet. You speak up in class and are very friendly to everyone. But when you like someone, you get quiet. That's what told me you like girls. I saw the way you looked at big booty Bethany in accounting class, Clarissa in Business 101. You look but never say anything to them, not even a hello. I also know you've been asked out several times by really good-looking guys and always turn them down. I'm not the only one who noticed."

"What do you mean, not the only one?" Yvette asked.

"Relax, Yvette, nobody cares who is screwing who anymore. Don't you see the groups around campus? The Gay & Lesbian Alliance for one. People are out and proud. Look at me, you can tell from a mile away I'm a lesbian, and no one treats me any differently. I'm not going to say I never had issues. Especially when I first came out. But nowadays it's no big deal."

"Easy for you to say, my mom hates lesbians. I see the way she looks at them and the things she says." Yvette said sadly.

"Girl, you have to live your own life. Until you do, you'll never be happy." Somehow that proved to be prophetic.

Gayle and Yvette became good friends, but they never had a relationship. Gayle became her unofficial "Guide to the Gay Life". She showed her all the spots to go to in the city and the surrounding area. How to tell if a woman was gay or not. She found out that quite a few straight women were open to a lesbian experience. They were best friends until Gayle moved to Pittsburgh for a job a few years later.

Finishing school, she went to work for ACR. She started as a secretary. Barry had her work in different departments to see how the business worked. She even had to work on a trash truck for a week. After that, she had a new appreciation for what they do. The week she worked, it rained for three days and snowed for two. Like the post office, the trash has to get picked up rain or shine.

She finally found her niche in accounting. They only had two people working in accounts receivable at the time. The company hadn't grown as much back then. They had just purchased the Greenville Sanitation Company and were trying to integrate their accounting systems. It was a mess. They were losing track of where the port-a-potties were, how long they were out, and who had paid and who didn't. Even though she was the lowest person on the totem pole, she figured out how to blend the systems to make it work.

Work was good, better than her social life. She still hadn't come out publicly. She was relegated to one-night hookups with women she met at the gay bars outside of town. She was so afraid of being found out that she felt like she was tiptoeing through life.

Two years after starting at ACS, she met Lori at the Pink Lilly in Lowell. She had expected it to be another hook-up like all her other relationships. But something about Lori attracted her more than the physicality of the relationship. After sex, they talked. Not just the trivial talk people sometimes have after sex, but she wanted to know who Yvette was and her history. She asked questions and listened. As they talked, Lori would touch her to emphasize a point. Not to re-initiate sex, but in a caring way, a lover touches someone they care about. It was her first real loving relationship. But she still wasn't out, and Lori couldn't deal with being a secret. Yvette found that she did love her, but was still afraid to come out publicly. She would always hear her mother in the back of her head. After six months, she gave Yvette an ultimatum, and when Yvette wouldn't relent, she left. That was Yvette's longest relationship.

That was three years ago, and she was still single with the occasional hookup. Breaking away from a couple of young ladies pushing their potential therapeutic scent business, she made her way to the woman who was still standing off to herself. "Hello, I'm Yvette. I noticed you taking in all the action." She said in greeting.

"I'm Lisa, Lisa Gardner. You seem to be the center of the action tonight. Everyone seems to want to talk to you."

"Yes, my company has been talking about starting an investment fund, and I guess word has gotten out. Everyone wants to be first in the door." Yvette said with some exasperation. "Bad thing about it is we're only in the planning stage. There's a lot that needs to be done still."

"Who do you work for? I'm an associate with Spencer, Pohl, and Dawson."

"Oh, they're our law firm, well, it seems like they're everyone's law firm in the city. I'm with Allied Carolina Rubbish." Yvette replied.

"What do you do there?" Lisa was curious who this woman was, whom everyone wanted to talk to.

"I'm the Chief Financial Officer, and I've been in that position for four years."

"ACR, that company is really growing. I read about them all the time in Greenville Business magazine. Our firm handles your company's legal work. What made you decide to become a CFO?" Lisa was interested in hearing her story. They talked for a while about each other's background. Yvette told her her brother was a partner in the company. She always felt people judged her as unworthy of the position. Lisa noticed people hovering, attempting to get Yvette's attention. Yvette found out Lisa had been with the firm for almost two years and had just made associate. So they exchanged business cards and spoke about getting together for lunch.

The rest of the week was a little hectic. There were some issues in the Rocky Mount office. Rachel had noticed some discrepancies that needed to be looked into. This was the first time it ever happened at ACR. They didn't want to think anyone was stealing, and hopefully it was just an honest error. Yvette assembled a team to do a complete audit, including Rachel, who found the problem, and would lead the team. There were three others, one each from the Athens, GA, Gatlinburg, TN, and Roanoke, VA offices. A week later, they found out it was caused by theft, and mistakes by the accounting department for not catching it. Some heads rolled, some were transferred, and others retrained.

Yvette called Lisa the following Monday and made arrangements to get together that Friday. She didn't want to call it a date because she still didn't know if Lisa was interested in that way. They decided on something casual.

Meeting at Lotus Chophouse and Sushi Bar on Hoffman that Saturday night. They greeted each other with a hug. When seated, they ordered their drinks and decided to split a starter of calamari, and looked at the menu. They found out that they both had been there before. They talked about their past. Lisa grew up in Kings Mountain until she went to Duke Law School on scholarship. She was raised by a single mom. She has an older brother who was always in and out of jail and a younger sister who is in her third year of college at Johnson C. Smith. She moved her mom out of the hood, and she now stays with Lisa in Mt. Holly.

While they were talking, Lisa ordered the Salmon "Oscar Style" and Yvette got the pan-seared Chilean Sea Bass. Yvette told her story about how her brother and best friend started the business. How he had paid for her to attend college and then hired her. They laughed about Yvette working on the truck during the snow and rain.

They continued the conversation when the mains arrived. "So why is a successful, attractive lady like yourself still single? I know it's not because there's a lack of available men in the city. You can't go 30 minutes without meeting a qualified man, no matter what your qualifications are. So what gives?" Lisa asked.

"I can ask you the same question. There are many reasons for being single right now. I'm very busy at work, and the job is demanding. I feel like I have to work three times as hard to prove myself since my brother is a partner in the company and hired me.' Yvette answered without revealing the true reason for her being single. 'So what's your reason?"

Lisa waited a few beats before answering. "I'm not looking for Mr. Right. Never have and probably never will.' Looking Yvette in the eyes, she said, 'I'm looking for Ms. Right." Yvette choked on the bite of Sea Bass she had just taken. "Slow down, Yvette, it's not that serious. I'm sure you're looking for the same thing, am I right?"

This wasn't the first time she had been in this position. She felt she could be honest with Lisa. "I don't know if I'm looking for Mrs. Right or Mrs. Right Now.' Yvette said with a laugh. 'Most people don't know about my interest

shall we say. I'm not comfortable with people knowing my business."

"Is that the real reason, Yvette? I know how hard it is to be a lesbian in the business world. Let alone a Black woman.' Lisa responded, voicing some of Yvette's unspoken concerns. 'Men don't like it because they know they won't be able to use sex for their advantage. Some think a woman will sleep with them to move up. I get it. And then the stigma of being Gay. Even in this day and age. Most of the high-status executives are old school and still say faggot or dyke. But I don't think that's your problem, is it? You work for basically a family business where everyone knew you before you started working there."

"Yeah, but none of them know I'm Gay. They do ask why I'm not dating. I've used a purse every now and then at some events."

"Purse?" Lisa asked questioningly.

"Yeah, like a gay guy using a woman is called a bread, I use a guy the same way and I call it a purse."

Lisa broke out in laughter. "Purse, I have to remember that. It's 2020 Vette; no one really cares about these things nowadays. I came out to my family after I graduated from college. They just looked at me like I was crazy. They had figured it out a while ago. My mom said she would love me no matter what. It took a huge weight off my shoulders."

"Well, I don't think it would be that easy for me. My mom hates gay people. She says it all the time."

"So you're living for your mother, is that what you're saying? When will you start living for yourself?' That's a question Yvette asked herself all the time.'If she truly loves you, she should love you no matter what or who you love. She should want you to be happy."

Yvette had been thinking the same thing for a while. They had a nice dinner, and conversation flowed. They made plans to meet again next week, Lisa's choice. When Yvette got home that night, her mother was up watching TV.

"You got a big smile on your face. You had a date tonight?"

"Yes, I did, and I had a great time," smiling as she greeted her mother.

"Good, I need some more grandchildren."

"You set a new record, Mom, not even a minute before mentioning grandchildren. They will come when they come." If by some miracle, Yvette thought to herself. It was an ongoing discussion about why she hasn't settled down yet. She could never bring herself to tell her mother her true nature. At 29, she was still living a lie. The internal battle raged on inside her head. Her mother was saying something, but she didn't catch it.

"Mom,' trying to interrupt her, 'Mom, I'm Gay."

"What?' her mother replied, being caught off-guard. 'You're gay?"

"Yeah, Mom. I'm a lesbian. I had a date with another woman tonight and would like to go on more with her." Yvette stops to gauge her mother's reaction.

First, she just stared at her daughter, whom she thought she knew so well. "How do you know you're a bull dyke? Is that why you don't go out on dates? Have you given men a try? This could be a phase." She says, grasping at emotional straws.

Shaking her head, "Mom, I'm not a bull dyke as you call us. I'm a lesbian. I have been since I realized I liked girls in the 6th grade. I've never had a boyfriend, and will never have one. I'm not looking to "give it a try" She said using the quotation fingers. "If you can't accept that, then it's going to be your problem, not mine. I love you, Mom. But, I have to live my life for me and no one else."

I can't believe this. Is it because your father wasn't around? Did someone mess with you when you were little? It was that damn Jessica on the third floor. I knew she was a butch. She looked more like a man than a woman."

"Stop, mom, just stop.' Her mother looked at her open-mouthed, 'No one touched me unless I wanted them to. This has nothing to do with you and how you raised me. This is who I am. And I'm not going to hide it anymore."

"This is so embarrassing. What will my friend think? What will they say in church? How can you do this to me?" She pleaded with Yvette.

"If I'm so embarrassing to you, then maybe you should live somewhere else and not have to be around me. Because I plan on having company come over. Maybe a girlfriend, but definitely more friends over than I have been. And some will be gay and some won't.' Her mom was shaking her head. 'You can shake your head all you want, I'm living my life the way I want from now on. No more hiding my truth."

"You would put me out? I'm your mother."

"Well, mother, if you love me, it should be unconditional, love me for who I am. It's late and I'm tired. I'm going to bed, Mother. I love you, but you need to make a choice, love me for who I am or don't, it's up to you." She left her mother sitting on the sofa, looking into space.

She woke up Sunday morning feeling good. She slept the sleep of dreams. She hadn't woken feeling this since she graduated from college. Not only was she well-rested, but she was at peace. She looked at the clock next to her bed and saw that it was 8:47. During the week, she would be walking into the office by now. Most Sundays, she would be getting ready for church. She decided to be selfish and make it a me day. She put on her robe and used the bathroom before going into the kitchen. Her mother was sitting at the table drinking coffee.

"Good Morning, Mom," she gave her usual greeting. Her mother took another sip of coffee.

"I don't know how good it can be when you confess you're a lesbian." The disapproval was more than evident in her voice.

"It's a good morning because I decided I am who I am. I'm not going to apologize for being me. I'm not just a gay woman, I'm successful in business, have good friends, and I hope, well respected. And if any of them have a problem with who I decide to love, it's not my problem, it's theirs."

"It's sinful, is what it is. It goes against the bible," Was her mother's rebuttal.

"So I guess it's okay for Pastor Jenkins to sleep with Sister Martha, or for Deacon Jacobs to be drunk every Saturday and come to church smelling of alcohol? How about Bobby the organist sleeping with the Choir Director? How does God feel about that?"

"Those are lies. You're trying to turn things around."

"Come on, Mom, we all know Jacobs is a drunk. And everyone knows about Bobby and Leon, let alone Pastor Jenkins and all the dirt he does. Don't hide behind the bible. Like I said, mother. If you can't deal with it, then this is where we need to part ways. I'll help you get another apartment. I'll get Darren to split the rent with me." She said with finality

Shocked, her mother said, "You would put your own mother out on the street?"

"I'm not putting you anywhere, mother, I said, if you can't deal with my lifestyle choices, then it's best if you live somewhere else. And I would help you pay for it.

"Does Barry or anyone else know about this?"

"No, he doesn't, but he will shortly. I'm done hiding, mother. Enjoy church, mother. I'm going out for breakfast."

"I'm going to pray for you, Yvette." She yelled at Yvette's back.

Once dressed, she came out to find her mother gone. She headed to the Chat-n-Nibble in Kings Mountain. Why she chose that place, she had no idea. She had heard good things about it but had never thought of going there. The food was pretty good. When she was done, she took a ride to Top Golf in Charlotte. She was still learning how to play. Darren explained how it would help business if you could meet your contemporaries on their own ground. Most of the Executives at the company had learned to play. She had a pretty good short game, but had to work on her long game. She hit a couple of buckets of balls.

She texted Joann to see what she was up to. She had her first child, Reggie Jr. She had been married to Reggie for 4 years now. They met at work. He was working for Greenville Sanitation, cleaning and working in the yard, when it was merged with ACR. He won a small lottery prize and grew it into millions by investing in the stock market. Now, he is a Vice President for the company. Joann was a receptionist when they met. She's taking a year off for the baby.

"Hey, stranger, how ya doing?" Yvette asked when Joann answered the phone.

"I'm doing good now, I got this big ass baby out of me."

"What are you doing for lunch? Let's get together, my treat." Yvette invited.

"I don't have a babysitter."

"Girl, stop, I'm only asking so I can see RJ," Yvette said gleefully, talking about her Godson.

"You can babysit anytime you want."

"Yeah right, you ain't letting that baby out of your sight." Joann had RJ at 32. She was worried she wouldn't find Mr. Right, let alone have a baby. We were all so happy when she met Reggie. We didn't know him as he worked at one of the branches. But he turned out to be Prince Charming. They live in the same development as Barry and Darren, a house off the golf course.

"I'm up for lunch, say 1:30 at the club?"

"Sure, I'll see you there." Yvette stopped home to shower and change before heading to the club. She knew her mother wouldn't be home yet. Church usually lasted until 2, and then they went to Golden Corral.

Arriving at the dining room, she spotted Joanna sitting with the baby across the room. She leaned down to kiss her on the cheek, then reached for the baby. He was the spitting image of Reggie. "How is motherhood treating you?

"Besides marrying Reggie, it's the best thing that ever happened to me. I'm going to try for a girl next." The smile on her face was lighting up the room.

"You're not coming back to work, are you? Motherhood agrees with you too much."

"Right now, I'm thinking probably not. I know what it's like being a kid and having both parents working. I would like to raise them until RJ starts school. And I can always find something to do to keep my mind busy."

"Now you can be a country club girl," Yvette said, laughing, knowing Joann was the total opposite of these snooty, stuck-up bitches in here. Most of them couldn't look past their nose at someone. Looking around, she could see the fakes and frauds. Cheaters or cheated. The waitress came and took their order.

"Girl, the only time I come here is for lunch or to meet Reggie for dinner. Look around, most of these women came from the same streets we did, or close to it. Now they act like they grew up with the Queen of England. Enough about me, what have you been doing?"

"Well, I started dating someone." Smiling at Joann.

"What, congratulations, do I know him?" Joann was genuinely surprised. Yvette had never talked about dating anyone before. "Come on, give me the tea."

"Well, first off, you don't know him.' She had a twinkle in her eye. She wondered how Joann would react to her announcement. "Because he is a she."

Joann looked at her long-time friend. She had known Yvette since they were kids, even though she was older than Yvette. "When did this happen? I mean the dating thing, not the lesbian thing, unless that's something new."

"No, it's not new at all. At least the Lesbian thing. I've been Gay for a while. I just never have admitted to anyone before. Well, besides my mom last night. I've always been afraid to come out. 'Yvette saw Joann tearing up with a smile on her face. "You're the first to know."

"Oh my God, Vette, I... I don't know, I feel honored. I'm so happy for you. So, who is this person you're dating? She must be special for you to come out like this." Joann could not keep the happiness out of her voice.

The waitress bought the food, and they started eating. "I met her at one of those events that the guys like us go to. She's a lawyer who works for Spencer, Pohl. We had a really good date and are going out this Saturday."

"So, what's so special about her? She got your nose all open already." Joann snickered.

"Slow down, it's only a date with another planned. I decided to stop hiding who I am. I mean, damn, I'm 29 years old, the Chief Financial Officer for a multi-million dollar company. It's 2024, let me live my life!"

"Yes, girl. Yes! Let Yvette be Yvette! I'm so happy for you. We need to have a coming-out party!"

"Sis, you're crazy. But a party does sound good. I'm going to be honest. I'm a little worried about how some people will react. My mom said some crazy things last night and this morning."

"Let me guess, she's going to pray for you? Yvette nodded. 'She said you should talk to that nasty Pastor Jenkins," More nodding. 'And you need to meet the right man, huh?"

"You know my mom, don't you. I told her if she can't deal with it, maybe it's best if she lives somewhere else.' Seeing Joann's reaction to that, 'No, I'm not kicking her out. I would pay for an apartment for her. I'm not going to have her around making rude or snide comments all the time. I've been hiding this too long."

"Don't let her get to you. When are you going to tell Barry?"

"I don't know. I don't think it's something where I would walk into this office and say 'Hey Barry, guess what, I'm a lesbian".

"That would be more funny than anything. I would pay to see that." Joann chuckled.

"Maybe if this thing with Lisa goes well, I'll let more people know. I'll just play it by ear."

Getting home later that day, she walked in to find her mother and Pastor Jenkins sitting in the living room. "Hello, Mother, Pastor, she said in a short greeting. She knew this wasn't going to be good.

"Honey, I want to talk to you," her mother said.

"Okay, Mother, do we need Pastor Jenkins here to have this talk?" Knowing full well why he was here.

"Yes, he does. We need to talk to you about your choice of lifestyle." As she was rubbing her hands in a nervous manner.

"Yvette,' Pastor Jenkins started, 'Sister Roberta tells me that you decided that you're gay now."

"Wait, Pastor, one, I didn't decide I was gay, I've always been gay. And two, this is none of your damn business. I'm a grown woman. I make my own decisions about who I love or sleep with, thank you very much."

Pastor Jenkins was caught short by her outburst, but he quickly recovered, "Sister Yvette, the Bible says,' that was all he was able to get out.

"I don't care what your Bible says. God made me this way. As I said, Pastor, I make my own decisions. As this is my home, I am asking you to leave, now. He turned to look at Roberta. She was just as shocked as he was.

"Yvette, that's no way to talk to a man of the cloth and a guest. You need to apologize, right this minute."

"Mother, do you remember when I was born?' She responded in the affirmative. "Then you know damn well I am over twenty-one years old. And not only that, but I bought this house, and you are also a guest. Pastor Jenkins will be leaving. Don't tempt my patience and have me ask you to join him. What will it be, mother?" As she stared her in the eye unblinking.

"Sister Roberta, I think it's best if I do leave. Maybe we'll have this talk at a later time." The pastor said, trying to save face. Roberta got up and walked him to the door as Yvette went to her bedroom.

I'm so sorry, Pastor. I don't know what has gotten into her. I didn't raise her to talk to people like that. I'm so embarrassed."

"Think nothing of it, Sister. We all have our trials and tribulations we have to deal with. I'll say a prayer for both of you."

He was on the phone with Deacon Jacobs before he got to the end of the street, telling him the tea. Roberta thought it best to let Yvette calm down today.

Being a busy executive and Lisa being an in-demand attorney made it difficult to get together as often as they wanted. The second date was at Constantine's, followed by some dancing at Club Metro. In the parking lot before parting they kissed for the first time. It left Yvette light headed and smiling all the way home.

They didn't get together for another two weeks. Lisa was involved in a case involving a failed merger with one company based in Tennessee. She was going back and forth for depositions. Yvette was able to get away and have lunch with her one Wednesday. They went to Route 74 Diner.

"So how are things at home? Has your mother calmed down at all?" Lisa asked as she looked at the menu.

Shaking her head. "Getting on my last nerve. I told you she had her pastor over, I guess to straighten me up. No pun intended. I'm going to have to find her someplace else to live. It's not getting any better."

"It will get better, you'll find out who loves and who doesn't. I'm not going to say I had an easy road when I came out. I lost some cousins who I thought we were tight. Turns out we weren't as tight as I thought. At least my Mom supported me. Have you told anyone else besides Joann?"

"No, there's no reason to make an announcement like those celebrities do. People will find out when there is a reason for them to find out. So how is the trial going? I'm looking forward to spending some quality time together."

"I'm pretty sure it will be another month before we go to trial. We may be able to get a settlement before then. If they are smart, they will settle."

"Well, they are going up against Lady Orca," the nickname she earned by taking on some of the biggest attorneys in the state.

"I hate that name; it makes me sound fat." They both laughed.

"You know, Lisa, I want to thank you. You made me realize I have to live my own truth. I haven't made any big announcements or anything, but I feel free now. People have even commented on it. When the trial is over, I want to do something special for you."

"Is that a threat or a promise?" Lisa smirked

"A little of both, smart ass."

They continued to talk and text every day. They knew there wasn't anyone in each other's lives. The more they talked, the closer they got. Not having the time to meet, they have yet to be physical beyond a kiss. Things at home finally came to a head for Yvette. Her mother finally plucked her last nerve.

Yvette got home one night to find a bunch of cars in front of the house and in her driveway. It had been one of the days, and she didn't want to deal with any bullshit. Well, that's what she got. A living room full of people. She automatically knew they were from her church. Roberta had only found religion when her kids got money. Like most women in the church, she was from the streets and acted like she was better than everyone else. Hardly ever wore the same clothes to service.

She stopped when she saw the gaggle sitting in her living room, knowing it wasn't going to end well for her mother.

"Yvette, can we talk to you for a minute?" Her mother asked somewhat timidly.

"What do we have to talk about, Mother?" Letting her know by the tone of her voice that she wasn't happy.

"You're lifestyle. I've been praying about it and....' Yvette cut her off.

"If you're going to talk about my lifestyle, are you going to talk about Sister Brody's son's crack habit? How about Sister Murphy's daughter having 4 kids before she was 26 by 4 different men? Maybe we should talk about Brother Johnson, who is sleeping with...' and her mother cut her off.

"Vette, that's enough. You're being disrespectful to our guest. You need to apologize, right now."

Turning towards the now stunned throng, "You're right, I do need to apologize.' Smiling sweetly, 'I apologize that you all need to get the hell out of my house. NOW, before I call the police. You have 5 minutes to get your sanctimonious asses out of my house." Women gasped, not being used to being spoken to like that. They didn't know how to respond. "You think I'm joking? Sit around and find out. I hope they give you bail for trespassing."

"Yvette, I invited them here and they are my guests," her mother made the mistake of saying.

"Mother Dear,' saccharin dripping from her voice. 'This house is in my name, I pay every bill, I buy the food, you are my guest. And as of now, your guest privileges have been revoked. I'm giving you two weeks to find another place to live." Turning back to the crowd, "You are all down to three minutes before I call the police and press charges. Don't tempt me."

First, one person jumps up to leave, which causes a wave of people to run out of the house. Sister Bertha turns to Roberta, "I'm sorry, sister," and joins the group leaving.

Roberta is standing by Yvette, stunned. "I can't believe you would be so rude to my friends. I'm so embarrassed. I'll never be able to set foot in church again."

"Mother dear, anything that happened, you caused. You bought this on yourself. You can't accept me the way I am; that's your problem, not mine. If you can't love me for who I am, then we need to part ways. I want you to find another place to live. I'll pay the rent and bills. But you won't be living here. She went to her bedroom to change, leaving her mother open-mouthed.

Yvette had never been so mad and disappointed in her life. She always knew how her mother felt about gay people. She hoped her love for her only daughter would be stronger than her hate of gays. She was saddened that she had been wrong.

While she was sitting on her bed, her phone rang. She looked and saw it was her brother. "What's up, brother man?"

"What's up is Mom calling me crying, saying you put her out, that's what's up. What the hell is going on?"

"Can you meet me at Legends on Main St. in 20 minutes?" She asked

"I'll be there," Barry responded.

18 minutes later, Barry was walking into the bar. Neither one of them was a drinker, so this place was a surprise to him. He spotted Yvette sitting at a booth. He stopped at the bar and got an orange juice. Taking a seat on the other side of the booth, "What's going on, Sis? Mom was freaking out when she called me. You put her out?"

"No, I didn't put her out. I told her she had to leave. I gave her two weeks to find a place."

"What the hell, Vette, what's going on. I thought you two were good," he said incredulously.

"We were until about a couple of weeks ago. I told her I was Gay and she freaked out."

It took Barry a minute to gather his wits after her announcement that she was gay. She said, like she was saying she was Black. Like it should be obvious. "You're Gay?"

"Yes, I am."

"Since when?"

"Since I knew I didn't like boys, 12 or 13, I guess. So I've always been a lesbian."

"I... I don't.... I never, Damn Yvette, how come you never said anything?"

"And what would I say, 'Hey brother, I'm a lesbian, pass the salt'. It wasn't like we were the most communicative family back then. Plus, you know how mom was, always calling people dyke and faggot. Did you think I would tell her? Hell no, so I kept it to myself. It was nobody's business."

"I could understand not telling mom, but me, I wouldn't judge you like that.' Sounding more hurt than judgmental.

"I don't know Barry. It just never came up. It wasn't like I was out there hanging with a bunch of lesbians. I just never said anything. Maybe I was hiding it, I don't know."

"So why now. It's obvious you told Mom."

"I'm seeing someone and its becoming something serious. Plus, I'm at the age where I need to live my truth. I shouldn't have anything to be embarrassed about, especially in this day and age."

"So, you got a girlfriend. When do I get to meet her?"

"She's an attorney and in the middle of an important case. As a matter of fact, she works for Spencer, Pohl. Maybe we can get together for dinner or something. I'm sure you would like her. She's really smart." She smiled as she thought about Lisa.

"I would like that. To meet someone you care about would be nice. See if she's free next Saturday. We can have a barbecue and invite some friends over."

"I'll ask her."

"Great, so what do you want to do about Mom?" he asked

"Well, she can't stay with me. First, she tried to have that nasty ass Pastor Jenkins talk to me. I came home today to an intervention. Like I was a drug addict or something. I guess they thought they could pray the gay away' causing them both to laugh. 'All these people in my house are trying to judge me. I told her before that if she can't accept me for who I am, then she needs to go. I'll pay her rent, but it won't be at my house."

"I'll help out of course, just let me know what she found and how much. I know she can be a handful. I'm surprised you lasted this long."

"She wasn't bad until she joined that church. Of all the churches, she decides to join that one." They both laughed. They continued to talk and then went about their own way.

Yvette and Lisa continued to text and talk to each other. Barry invited Yvette to a barbecue only if she was going to bring Lisa. Luckily, she was free, so they planned to attend. Yvette had some apprehension since this would be the first time in public with any woman she had dated. They had been dating for almost two months. Because their schedules were so busy, they had only been able to get together 6 or 7 times. Neither had they met each other's family. Yvette went over a little early to meet Lisa's mother. She was in the same boat, with her mother living with her.

Pulling up to a nice single-story ranch in an older area of the North Greenville area. This area was known for having more retirees than younger couples with kids. The yard was well kept with several flower beds in full bloom. Yvette rang the bell, and shortly, an older woman who looked like she had no choice but to be Lisa's mother appeared. She was an older version of Lisa. Same height and weight, but with a different hairstyle. "Hello, you must be Yvette. I've heard so much about you," as she pulls Yvette in for a hug. Parting, she steps back, taking in Yvette, "I'm Antonia, Lisa's mother. It's so good to finally meet you." She guides her to the living room.

"It's good to meet you also. Lisa talks about you all the time." Yvette says, looking at her girlfriend's mother. They talked while waiting for Lisa. Antonia was born in Georgia and moved to North Carolina after getting married. Her husband passed away 10 years ago in a car accident. She retired from teaching elementary school 5 years ago.

Lisa came into the living room wearing a yellow and blue sundress. They looked at each other and started laughing. Yvette had on almost the same thing. "No, you're going to have to change. We will not be the couple that dresses alike." Lisa turned around to change. "Ms. Antonia, would you like to join us? Yvette offered.

"Oh no, honey, you two go have fun."

"I would like you to come unless you have plans, Ms. Antonia. It's a family barbecue and your family. It will be fun to get out." She could see the indecision in her eyes. "My sister in law will be there. They make barbecue chicken with Ethiopian seasonings. She and her husband own that restaurant downtown called Almaz."

"I've been there before, and the food is delicious. You talked me into it. Do I need to change?"

"Not at all. It's family, no need to worry. Everyone will be wearing shorts and probably T-shirts. Most of the kids will be in the pool."

"Thank you, Yvette, you are as sweet as Lisa says." Lisa came back into the room in a red sundress. "Is this better?"

"Much, your mother is coming with us," Yvette told her. They got into Yvette's BMW for the 25-minute ride to Barry's. He had a house just off the golf course of Greenville Country Club.

Pulling up to the house, Yvette was surprised to see so many cars already parked out front. She thought it would be immediate family and a few friends. She recognized many of the cars from work. When she parked, she felt Lisa grab her hand, "Are you really ready for this?"

Looking over at the woman, she had grown so fond of over the last several months. She felt the strength she needed to do this. "Ready as ever. I am who I am and with who I want to be with." She leaned over and kissed her on the lips."

"Get a room, you two," Antonia said from the back seat, laughing.

They got out and around the house to the back yard. She sees Barry standing by the grill, talking to Darren, Reggie, and Nashan. Geveda, her sister in law, was talking to Joann, Haset, her sister, Carol, and several other women. She saw her nieces and nephews, and other kids chasing each other in the pool. There must have been 30 people there.

The first person to see them was Geveda. She walked over to them. Gave Yvette a hug, "So are you going to introduce me to your friends?" Looking over to Lisa and Antonia with a smile.

"Yes, This is my Girlfriend Lisa and her Mother Antonia." She didn't realize how easy that would be to introduce someone as her girlfriend for the first time.

"You have to help me out. Which one is the mother and which one is the daughter?" Geveda said.

"Oh, I like this one. I'm Antonia, it's good to meet you." Geveda took her by the arm and led her deeper into the yard, where she began more introductions.

Yvette took Lisa's hand and walked towards her brother. By then, most people noticed that Yvette had arrived with some guests. The men stopped talking when Yvette and Lisa walked up, still holding hands. "Lisa, this is my brother Barry, his brother-in-law Nashan, He owns Almaz downtown, and Reggie, he's a VP with the company."

"This is the Lisa you told me about,' Barry said, 'I don't know if you remember me. Your firm handles our legal business. Tom is around here somewhere." Lisa shook hands or hugged in greeting, then was dragged away to meet the next group. They spent the next 30 minutes making the rounds. Occasionally, they would spot Antonia chatting with different people as if she knew them all her life. Lisa met Joann and of course Yvette's God son. Lisa was pulled away several times to be introduced to different people. She was introduced to Darren and his wife Roxanne, as well as Barry and Darren's children. She had been surprised that her boss was there, especially with his new girlfriend. She guessed it was his coming-out party.

Yvette was somewhat shocked that Lisa and her relationship were being so accepted. She didn't notice any sly looks, and the talking didn't stop when she approached a group. People asked the usual relationship questions. Several people even told her they were happy she finally found someone.

*****************

The BBQ started to wind down. As people were leaving, many stopped to talk to Yvette and congratulate her on her new relationship and give Lisa one last hug. They rounded up Antonia, who now had offers to get together with several people. Yvette thought today was a huge success. She was kicking herself for not doing this sooner. She was finding out who her true friends were.

Jackie even came and told her how proud she was of her coming out. That she was Gay herself and hadn't come out yet. They both promised to get together later in the week for lunch.

As they were driving home, "Well, how do you feel now?" Lisa asked as she rubbed Yvette's shoulder.

"Like I was stupid for waiting so long to come out. I don't know why I was scared of what people would think.' Antonia and Lisa smiled as they listened to Yvette.'Taking those guys to business events. Or worse, going alone so I wouldn't have to answer questions. God, I was so stupid."

"No, Honey,' Antonia said from the back. 'You did what you felt you had to do. Don't let the past dictate your future."

"Yes, sweetie, we can look towards the future and not worry about the past. Everyone seemed so happy for you. A couple even told me I better treat you right or else. I'm glad they had a smile on their face when they said it."

"You said we have a future?" Looking sideways at Lisa as she drove.

"Well, unless you don't want me in your future."

"I just introduced you to my family. The first person I've been romantically involved with, by the way. So you must be special to me." At the next red light, she reached over and kissed her. "Get a room, you two," Ms Antonia said from the backseat.

"Did you enjoy yourself, Ms. Antonia?"

"Girl, I had a ball and Joann and I are having lunch Wednesday, and I'm babysitting for her next weekend."

"What? Joann is letting you babysit? What the hell, she won't let anyone babysit for her." Yvette said incredulously.

"Don't be jealous, Yvette, babies love me. Haset and Nashan invited me to their restaurant, and Roxanne and I are having lunch at the country club next Monday."

"Well, weren't you just the social butterfly today. I'm glad you had a good time."

"I really do appreciate you inviting me. I would just have sat at home today." Antonia gushed.

"It was my pleasure."

They pulled up to Lisa's house. Ms. Antonia went inside, and Lisa and Yvette sat in the car together for a minute.

Yvette looked over to Lisa. She reached over and pulled her in for a kiss. "Thank you, sweetheart," and she kissed her again.

"You can keep thanking me if you keep kissing me. But why are you thanking me?"

"Because without you, I would still be in the closet, hiding who I am."

"It would have happened eventually. I'm glad I was there when it happened. I have to say, you've made me happier than I've been in a long time. This case should be over soon. Would you be interested in a getaway?"

"I don't know, my girlfriend might get mad."

"What if your girlfriend is the one who takes you on this trip?" Lisa said as she kissed Yvette.

"I would go anywhere with you, honey."

Monday, going into work, Yvette was greeted by everyone as usual. Until she got to her office. She found it filled with pink balloons. It was filled to the point that when she opened the door, some floated out into the hall. She didn't know how to take the prank at first. She heard someone behind her and saw her assistant smiling, coming to give her a hug. "I hear you got a girlfriend and didn't tell me!" She said in mock anger.

"I didn't tell anyone." She said, returning the hug and seeing others from the accounting department coming towards her. She was greeted throughout the day.

Lisa won her big case. The legend of Lady Orca continued to grow in the legal community. Yvette took the time to sit in on the trial one day to see Lisa in action. It was eye-opening to see her pick apart the defense's witness piece by piece.

When the case was finished, they took the promised vacation. They took a week and flew out to San Diego. It was two days before they left the hotel to go sightseeing. They did all the tourist things, including going into Tijuana.

Yvette had never been so happy in her life. Being able to share things in her life with someone she loves. Lisa was as affectionate as she was. They were always holding hands or touching each other.

The only fly in the ointment was her mother. She finally had to get a place for Roberta, as she wouldn't look for one herself. Barry had to get involved, and she stayed with him until the apartment was ready. The last thing she said to her daughter was that she would pray for her soul since she's living an ungodly lifestyle.

Lisa had known how hurt she was, even though she tried not to show it. A few days after her mother had moved out, Antonia came by. "Yvette, baby, I know how hard it is for your mother not to accept you as you are. But I'll always be here for you. No matter what happens between you and Lisa, I'll be your mom." It was one of the few times Yvette openly cried.

Yvette and Lisa's relationship grew stronger and stronger. They attended each other's industry events and social functions. They became one of the city's power couples. They have been talking about marriage. Antonia is talking about Grandchildren. Waking up next to the woman she loves makes Yvette appreciate every day. She feels her journey is complete.

THE END