Soulija
He glanced up at India, who was delicately cutting into her steak, seemingly oblivious to the what was happening online. Arell wrestled with the urge to confront her. They weren't officially dating, after all.
Finally, he cleared his throat. "So, uh, India... I couldn't help but notice some of the comments on your post. People are saying you're dating The Game?"
India paused, her fork halfway to her mouth. She set it down carefully, her expression a mixture of amusement and exasperation. "Oh, that," she said, waving her hand dismissively. "It's just a publicity thing."
Arell raised an eyebrow, unconvinced. "A publicity thing?"
India leaned forward, her voice lowering. "Look, The Game's management thought it would be good for both our brands to be seen together. But honestly? He's weird, Arell. And the age difference? I mean, I'm barely 19. He's what, 35? It's just... not real, you know?"
Arell nodded slowly, processing her words. He wanted to believe her, but a nagging doubt lingered in the back of his mind. Still, he decided to play it cool. "I hear you," he said, his voice carefully neutral.
India seemed relieved at his response. She picked up her fork again, gesturing towards his plate. "Speaking of wild, how's your steak? You said you don't eat it much, right?"
Grateful for the change of subject, Arell looked down at his plate. The perfectly seared ribeye stared back at him. "Yeah, it's not really my usual thing. But I figured, when in Rome, right?"
India laughed, a sound that seemed to lighten the atmosphere. "Well, let me teach you a thing or two about steak, Mr. Rapper. First off, see how it's got that nice crust on the outside? That's where all the flavor is."
As India launched into an impromptu lesson on the finer points of steak preparation and consumption, Arell found himself drawn into her enthusiasm. He watched as she cut into her own steak, the pink center a stark contrast to the caramelized exterior.
"Now, the key is to get a little bit of everything in one bite," India explained, spearing a piece of meat along with some of the sides. "You want the richness of the steak, the earthiness of the mushrooms, and a bit of that sauce. It's all about balance."
Arell followed her lead, surprised at the explosion of flavors in his mouth. "Damn," he muttered, "I've been missing out."
As their meal progressed, Arell found himself curious about India beyond her polished social media persona. "So, what's your favorite movie?" he asked, taking a sip of water.
India shrugged, her response almost rehearsed. "Oh, you know, I love all the big blockbusters. Anything with lots of action and hot actors."
Arell raised an eyebrow. "Come on, there's gotta be something specific that stands out to you. A film that really made you feel something."
India hesitated, her carefully crafted facade wavering slightly. "Well... there is one, but it's kind of old. You probably haven't heard of it."
"Try me," Arell encouraged, leaning forward.
"It's called 'A Bronx Tale,'" India admitted, her voice softening. "Have you seen it?"
Arell's eyes lit up. "That's my favorite movie! Chazz Palminteri and Robert De Niro, right? That film is tough."
India's posture changed subtly, her shoulders relaxing as she leaned in. "Wait, you've actually seen it? I thought I was the only one under 30 who appreciated it."
"Are you kidding? That movie taught me so much," Arell said enthusiastically. "The way Sonny takes C under his wing, showing him the ropes of the neighborhood..."
"But also teaching him about respect and the value of honest work," India chimed in, her words picking up speed. "And that scene where C's dad tells him it's better to be feared than loved..."
"But Sonny disagrees," Arell finished, nodding. "Says it's nice to be both, but it's very difficult."
India's eyes were shining now, her words tumbling out faster. "Exactly! And the way C has to navigate between these two father figures, trying to find his own path. It's just so..."
"Real," Arell supplied, watching as India's usual cool demeanor melted away.
"Yes!" India exclaimed, gesturing animatedly. "Like when C has to decide whether to rat out his friends or stay silent. It's not just black and white."
As India continued to dissect the film's themes, Arell found himself drawn in by her genuine enthusiasm. Gone was the calculated social media star, replaced by a young woman with depth and passion.
"And don't even get me started on the 'door test,'" India laughed, her eyes crinkling at the corners. "I swear, I judge every guy I date by whether he reaches over to unlock my door."
Arell chuckled, making a mental note. "It's solid advice. 'If he doesn't reach over and lift up that button so that you can get out of the car, that means he's a selfish person and all he cares about is himself.'"
India's jaw dropped slightly. "You remember the exact quote? Okay, now I'm impressed."
India leaned forward, her voice taking on a playful lilt. "You know, Arell, I have to say, you're full of surprises. Not many guys can quote classic movies and look this good doing it."
Arell felt a smile tugging at the corners of his mouth. "Oh yeah? Well, I aim to impress. Though I gotta say, you're not exactly what I expected either."
"Is that a good thing or a bad thing?" India asked, her tone teasing but with a hint of genuine curiosity.
"Definitely good," Arell replied, his voice low and warm. "I like a girl who can keep me on my toes."
India's laugh was like music, light and genuine. "Well, Mr. Rapper, I've got plenty more surprises up my sleeve. You'll just have to stick around to find out what they are."
As they bantered back and forth, the air between them seemed to crackle with electricity. Their eyes locked, and Arell felt a warmth spreading through his chest that had nothing to do with the rich meal they'd just shared.
Suddenly, India's expression changed, her eyes lighting up with an idea. "Oh! Speaking of surprises, I've been meaning to ask you something. That hoodie Miley was wearing in that photo... it's from your brand, right?"
Arell nodded, a bit thrown by the sudden change of subject. "Yeah, why?"
India bit her lip, her expression a perfect blend of coy and hopeful. "Well, I was wondering... do you think you could get one for me? I mean, it looked so good on Miley, but I bet it would look even better on me."
Arell chuckled, shaking his head in amusement. "You don't ask for much, do you? But sure, I think I can make that happen."
Arell's phone buzzed on the table. He glanced at it, seeing a message from Geoffrey: "Meeting with Patrick before the show. Need you here now. Sending location."
"Damn," Arell muttered under his breath. He looked up at India, her eyes still sparkling from their conversation. "I was hoping we could hang out more, but I got a meeting I can't miss."
India pouted slightly, but her smile didn't fade. "Duty calls, huh? Always the busy rapper."
"Something like that," Arell said with a grin. "But before I go, let's handle this bill." He paused, an idea forming. "How about we split it?"
India's expression shifted, a flash of surprise crossing her face. "Split it? You sure?"
"Yeah," Arell replied smoothly, watching her reaction. "I mean, we both ate, right?"
India hesitated for a moment before nodding. "Sure, I guess we can do that."
Arell smiled, pulling out his wallet. "Nah, I'm just messing with you. I got it." He handed his card to the waiter, who took it with a nod.
India playfully rolled her eyes. "You really had me for a second there. Thought I was gonna have to check that wallet of yours."
"Please," Arell scoffed, a grin playing on his lips. "You know I got it handled."
They stood up, the evening winding down but the energy between them still crackling. India stepped closer, her perfume hitting Arell's senses.
"So, Mr. Big Spender, you gonna make sure I get home safe too?" she teased, looking up at him through her lashes.
Arell chuckled, already pulling out his phone. "Course. Let me call you an Uber."
As he tapped away at his screen, India closed the distance between them, wrapping her arms around his waist in a hug. Arell tensed for a split second, surprised, before relaxing into it. He draped one arm around her shoulders, still holding his phone with the other.
"Thanks for tonight," India murmured against his chest. "It was... different. Good different."
Arell gave her a light squeeze. "Yeah, it was. We should do it again sometime."
India pulled back, a mischievous glint in her eye. "Oh, we definitely should. Maybe next time you can show me how you handle that mic of yours again."
Arell laughed, shaking his head. "You don't quit, do you?"
"Never," India winked. Just then, Arell's phone buzzed.
"Your car is here," he said, nodding towards the door.
They walked out together, the Austin night alive with music and chatter from nearby bars. Arell spotted the Uber and walked India to it, opening the door for her.
India laughed as she slid in. "Mhmm, you're learning. Night, Arell."
"Night, India."
As Arell's Uber wove through the neon-lit streets of Austin, the rapper's mind drifted from his dinner with India to the meeting ahead. The city hummed with life, a stark contrast to the quiet anticipation building in Arell's chest.
Arell hopped into his own Uber, his mind shifting gears as he headed towards the meeting. The Austin skyline glowed against the night sky as they cruised through the city.
Fifteen minutes later, the car pulled up to a sleek, glass-fronted building, its windows glowing. Arell stepped out, nodding his thanks to the driver, and made his way inside.
Arell stepped into the Puma office, the Austin skyline glittering through the floor-to-ceiling windows. Geoffrey nodded at him, already deep in conversation with Petrick and Puma's lead designer.
"Arell, glad you made it," Petrick said, extending his hand. "We've got some exciting stuff to show you."
They gathered around a large table covered in sketches and prototype designs. Petrick began laying out various concepts.
"So, we've been exploring different silhouettes and technologies," Petrick explained, gesturing to the spread before them. "We want something that really captures the energy of your music and style."
Arell's eyes scanned the designs, taking in the various shapes and color combinations. Some were sleek and minimalist, others bold and eye-catching. But one sketch in particular caught his attention.
It was a sleek yet bold shoe with clean lines and a unique pattern. He pointed to it, his curiosity piqued. "Tell me more about this one. What's the vision behind it?"
Petrick's eyes lit up, clearly excited to discuss the design. "Ah, good eye. That's a prototype we've been working on for a while. It's actually inspired by our future collaboration plans, incorporating both performance and lifestyle elements. We're calling it the Puma RS-X."
Arell nodded, impressed by the sleek design. "I like the look of it. What kind of tech are you planning to put in it?"
Petrick gestured for them to take a closer look. "The RS-X is designed with several key features in mind. First, we're using our RS foam technology in the midsole, which provides superior cushioning and responsiveness. It's perfect for both running and casual wear, giving you that extra comfort throughout the day."
Geoffrey leaned in, also examining the sketch. "What about the materials? Are you using anything new?"
"Absolutely," Petrick replied, his enthusiasm palpable. "We're incorporating a mix of mesh, suede, and leather overlays for breathability and durability. The upper design allows for a breathable feel, while the leather and suede give it that premium, stylish finish."
Arell nodded thoughtfully, envisioning how the shoe would feel on his feet. "I see the potential. The design is dope, and if it performs as well as it looks, it'll be a hit. Have you tested it out yet?"
Petrick smiled. "We're in the early stages of testing, but initial feedback has been very positive. The cushioning and support are top-notch, and the design really resonates with the younger demographic."
Arell's mind raced with possibilities. "What about customization? Can we play around with the colors and patterns?"
"Definitely," Petrick said, flipping through a few more sketches. "We want to make this shoe versatile, allowing for different colorways and unique collaborations. Your input on this would be invaluable."
As Arell and Geoffrey exited the Puma office, they were both buzzing with excitement. The collaboration plans were moving smoothly, and the RS-X prototype had Arell's mind racing with possibilities.
Geoffrey clapped Arell on the back. "You did great in there. We're going to make some serious moves with this collaboration."
Arell grinned, feeling a sense of accomplishment. "Thanks, I can't wait to see those prototypes in action."
Geoffrey's phone buzzed, and he glanced at it. "I've got a meeting with Craig. You good to head back on your own?"
"Yeah, no problem," Arell replied. Geoffrey handed him the keys to the BMW.
"Take the car. I'll catch up with you later," Geoffrey said, giving Arell a nod before heading off.
Arell climbed into the driver's seat, enjoying the luxury feel of the car. He started the engine and pulled out onto the street, deciding to take a leisurely drive through the city. As he cruised past the neon-lit clubs and bars, he soaked in the vibrant nightlife of Austin.
As he drove past a particularly lively stretch of clubs, his eyes caught sight of a familiar figure. J Soulja, the same guy who had tried to start trouble with him outside Stubb's BBQ, was walking with a girl on his arm. They were heading towards a nearby park, away from the crowded streets.
Arell's mind flashed back to their altercation, the tense moment hanging heavy in his memory. Now, seeing him again, a surge of anger and a desire for payback coursed through Arell.
Arell slowed the car, watching as J Soulja and the girl veered off into the park. The glint of jewelry caught Arell's eye.
He parked the car a few blocks away, ensuring it was well-hidden from sight. He pulled up the hood of his jacket, covering his face. He slipped out of the car and moved silently through towards the two.
The park was dimly lit, with only a few scattered lampposts casting weak pools of light on the paths. Arell kept to the darkness, moving quickly and quietly. He followed J Soulja and the girl, his heart pounding with anticipation.
J Soulja and the girl stopped near a bench, the girl sitting down while J Soulja leaned against a tree, his arm draped casually over her shoulders. Arell could hear snippets of their conversation, but he was focused on the jewelry.
Arell crept closer, his footsteps silent on the grass. When he was close enough, he pulled the gun from his waistband, the metal heavy in his hand. He stepped out of the shadows, his voice low.
"Don't turn around or I'll blow you down," he growled, the gun aimed steadily at J Soulja's back.
J Soulja's head snapped up, his eyes widening in fear. "What the fuck—" he started, but Arell cut him off.
"Shut up. Keep looking that way," Arell ordered, stepping closer. "Move and you dead."
J Soulja stayed still, his face pale. The girl beside him looked terrified, her eyes wide with fear.
Arell moved quickly, grabbing the gold chains from around J Soulja's neck. He stuffed them into his pocket, his movements swift.
"Yo, is this fake?" Arell muttered, noticing the weight was off.
"Fuck you," J Soulja spat, trying to keep his tough demeanor. "You ain't shit. I ain't scared of you."
Arell pressed the gun against the back of J Soulja's head. "Say that again," he hissed.
J Soulja stayed silent, his bravado evaporating. Arell took the diamond-studded watch from J Soulja's wrist, inspecting it closely.
"Fake-ass shit," Arell muttered, throwing the watch to the ground.
"Please, man," J Soulja stammered, his voice shaking now. "Just take the chains and go."
Arell ignored him, keeping the gun trained on him as he backed away. "Stay looking that way," he ordered, his voice a low growl. "Don't even think about moving."
J Soulja nodded rapidly, not daring to move. The girl remained silent, her eyes fixed on the ground.
Arell turned and disappeared into the shadows, moving quickly and quietly. He retraced his steps back to the car. He slid into the driver's seat and started the engine, driving away without looking back. He made sure to keep to the side streets, avoiding any areas with heavy traffic or surveillance cameras.
After a few minutes, Arell pulled into a dark alley and parked the car. He slipped off his jacket, threw it into a nearby trash bin, and sat back in the driver's seat. He reached into his pocket and pulled out the chains he had taken from Soulja, inspecting them closely.
He could tell that a few of the chains were fake, but the largest ones were real. There were even a few custom pendants encrusted with real diamonds.
"I can't wear this shit," Arell muttered to himself, shaking his head. "But I know some folks in the hood who'd love to stunt with this."
He thought about the kids and young guys in Atlanta, the ones who respected him and were always trying to make a name for themselves. Giving them these chains would not only boost their confidence but also help establish his own reputation even further.
Arell drove back to his hotel, his mind racing with thoughts of what had just happened and what he would do next. He parked the car in the underground garage and made his way up to his room.
Once inside his room, Arell locked the door behind him and pulled out the chains again, laying them out on the bed. He picked up one of the larger, real chains and held it up to the light, watching the diamonds sparkle.
He spent the next few minutes sorting through the chains, separating the real ones from the fake. When he was done, he stashed the real ones in a small duffel bag and tossed the fake ones into the trash.
Arell took a moment to check his phone. His social media accounts were buzzing with activity. The photo from his shoot with Miley was still trending, and fans were excited about his performance tonight. He scrolled through the comments, responding to a few, letting the positive energy fuel him.
As he was about to put his phone away, a message from Geoffrey popped up: "Everything set for the show. Need anything?"
Arell quickly typed back, "All good. Ready to kill it tonight. Saw the Soulija person and robbed him btw."