CHAPTER 173: A PROBLEM SHARED

DAMIAN "Why do you look so happy, bro?" I teased after Ray opened the door and pulled me in for a brief hug. "I'm glad you noticed so quickly," he replied as he stepped aside so I could walk into the house. "I didn't think you could make it," he continued as he shut the door and began trailing after me into the living room. I shrugged in response, taking in the slightly unfamiliar decor with a tiny frown of confusion. Something was off. Ray must have sensed my line of thought because he chuckled. "My girl repainted," he explained. "She thought the first paint was bland." I shot him a bemused look of surprise as one eyebrow shot up. "Really? Your girl?" His eyes were unfocused and softened as they fixed on a particular spot behind me. So, I whirled around and immediately saw her—tall, warm brown skin and the most gorgeous curls I'd ever seen. "Hi, you must be Damian," the tall lady chirped as she walked closer, her hand stretched out for a shake. I took it, shooting Ray another