xxxvi. TIME WILL TELL.
February 4, 2018. | Third Person POV.
Los Angeles, California.

Sedona adjusted her laptop on the kitchen island, the golden morning sunlight spilling through the windows of her home. Her Zoom meeting with Dr. Garcia was about to begin, and although she was eager to talk about the latest developments in her life, a flicker of nervousness danced in her chest. As soon as the familiar video feed loaded and Dr. Garcia's kind face appeared on the screen, Sedona felt the warmth of reassurance wash over her.

"Good morning, Sedona," Dr. Garcia greeted, her tone gentle but attentive. "You look like you have something to share today."

Sedona grinned, her fingers idly tracing the edge of her coffee mug. "I do. There's... been a bit of a change in my life. A good one."

Dr. Garcia leaned forward slightly. "Let's hear it."

With a deep breath, Sedona began. "So, Kenn—Kendrick and I... we're dating now. Officially." Her cheeks flushed as she said the words, and she couldn't help the small smile that tugged at her lips.

Dr. Garcia's face lit up. "That's wonderful, Sedona. Congratulations. How do you feel about it?"

"Honestly? I feel good. Really good. But also... cautious," Sedona admitted, her smile fading just a touch. "This is different. So different from Marco. With Kendrick, I feel like we're on the same wavelength. But I don't want to rush into anything. I've been down that road before, and it didn't end well. I want to do things right this time."

Dr. Garcia nodded thoughtfully. "That's a very healthy perspective. What does 'doing things right' look like for you?"

Sedona took a moment to gather her thoughts. "Taking our time. Being open with each other. Communicating. I want us to build something real, something that isn't based on rushing or expectations. I even brought up the idea of a 3-month dating rule... you know, no sex for the first three months."

Dr. Garcia raised an eyebrow, intrigued. "Tell me more about why you're considering that."

"It's not just about waiting," Sedona explained, her tone serious. "It's about building a connection outside of the physical stuff. Don't get me wrong, the chemistry is there, but I want to know him—really know him—and I want him to know me. I want us to figure out our boundaries, what makes us tick, without the distraction of jumping into bed. I think it'll be a good test for both of us, to see if we can be patient and build something solid."

Dr. Garcia nodded again, a smile tugging at her lips. "It sounds like you're setting a strong foundation, Sedona. The three-month rule isn't about a hard and fast rule—it's about what works for you and aligns with your values. Have you talked to Kendrick about it yet?"

"Not yet," Sedona admitted, shifting in her seat. "I plan to bring it up soon. I think he'll respect it, but I also know it's... unconventional."

Dr. Garcia's smile deepened. "It sounds like you've given this a lot of thought. I think it's a great way to establish trust and set the tone for your relationship. Just remember, communication is key. Be honest with him about how you feel and why this is important to you."

Sedona nodded, feeling a bit lighter after the conversation. As they wrapped up the session, she felt ready to approach Kendrick with her thoughts, knowing that she was setting her own boundaries and expectations.

—

That, Sedona curled up on the couch with her phone, texting Kendrick.

𝐓𝐨𝐝𝐚𝐲 9:30 PM

Sedona
Hey, can you tell the guys to come by tomorrow? I'm putting something together for everyone before we head out on tour.

She stared at the screen, half expecting an immediate reply. A minute later, her phone buzzed.

Kenny
Say less. They'll be there.

Sedona smiled to herself, already envisioning the day ahead.

—

The next morning, Sedona was up bright and early. She called Jasmine and Monica, who arrived shortly after with coffee in hand, ready to help. The three women worked in harmony in the kitchen, chopping, stirring, and seasoning as Sedona prepared a spread of Jamaican dishes she'd grown up eating. It was her way of being nice plus food always brings people close, even though it was short notice.

As Sedona diced fresh mangoes for her chutney, she shared her thoughts with her friends. "I'm going to talk to Kendrick about the 3-month rule today."

Monica raised an eyebrow. "You really think he'll go for it?"

"I hope so," Sedona replied, her tone firm. "It's important to me. I want us to build something solid, and this is one way I can make sure we're not rushing."

Jasmine grinned. "It'll be hard, though. You and Kendrick? The energy is insane between y'all. But I get it. You're trying to thug it out."

Sedona laughed. "Exactly. Temptation's a beast, but I can handle it. I just need to make sure he's on board."

Monica took a slow sip of her coffee, eyeing Sedona over the rim of her cup. "Girl, I admire your self-control. But let's be real—Kendrick Lamar? That man look at you like you hung the damn moon. You really think he's gonna be able to last three months without folding?"

Jasmine cackled, nearly dropping a piece of chopped bell pepper. "Right? That man can't keep his hands nor eyes off you now, and y'all just made it official. Three months is basically a prison sentence for him."

Sedona smirked, tossing the diced mangoes into a bowl. "Y'all are so dramatic. It's not a punishment, it's a foundation. If he really wants this to work, he'll understand why I need this time."

Monica leaned against the counter, arms crossed. "Mmhmm. And what happens if he starts dropping hints? You know, the subtle touches, the late-night voice... the deep ass 'come here, baby' that make your knees weak?"

Sedona rolled her eyes, but a knowing smile tugged at her lips. "I'll stay strong."

Jasmine scoffed. "Sure, sis. Let's just hope he respects the rule, 'cause I know damn well if Kendrick was my man, I'd have lost already."

Monica laughed, nodding in agreement. "I mean, have you seen the way that man moves? You in for a real test, Sedona."

Sedona shook her head, laughing. "Y'all act like I don't have willpower. I got this."

Jasmine wiggled her eyebrows playfully. "We'll see. If you crack before the three months are up, you have to tell us."

Sedona sighed dramatically, tossing a piece of mango at her. "Fine, deal. But I won't crack. I've managed to survive these past few months without any, who's to say I won't for three more months."

Monica snorted. "Yeah, okay. We'll be here when you do."

As Sedona stirred the pot of simmering curry, she glanced over at Jasmine with a curious smirk. "Wait, hold up. Jas, did you do the 3-month rule with Q?"

Monica perked up instantly, eyes darting between the two. "Ooooh, now this is what I wanna hear."

Jasmine paused mid-chop, then burst out laughing. "Hell no." She set the knife down and wiped her hands dramatically. "Girl, let me tell you something—Quincy is not the type of man you put on a three-month hold. I tried to act like I had standards, I really did, but that man is a menace."

Sedona and Monica leaned in, already invested.

"So what happened?" Sedona pressed, trying to suppress her grin.

Jasmine exhaled, shaking her head. "Okay, so when we first started talking, I told myself I was gonna keep it cute, you know? Set boundaries, play it smart. But the first time we hung out alone, we were just chillin', right? Watching a movie, vibing. Then this fool leans in and says, 'You comfortable, baby?' with that deep-ass voice."

Monica clapped her hands together. "Oh nah—not the voice."

Jasmine threw her hands up. "The voice, Monica! I was done for! It was like my brain just short-circuited. And before I knew it—"

Sedona gasped, pointing at her. "You folded on the first night?"

Jasmine groaned, dramatically dropping her head onto the counter. "Like a damn lawn chair! I didn't stand a chance, y'all."

Monica was wheezing at this point. "Not you having zero resistance! Thankfully I don't have that issue."

Jasmine sat up, shaking her head. "None. I thought I had willpower, but that man knows exactly what he's doing. And the worst part? Afterward, he had the nerve to say, 'See? Told you it was gon' happen sooner or later.'"

Sedona and Monica screamed in unison.

"Oh, he cocky cocky."

"The audacity!"

Jasmine threw a hand over her chest. "The disrespect! And the crazy part is... he was right."

Sedona shook her head, laughing. "Wow. You really ain't have no 3-month rule at all."

"Girl, I ain't make it past three hours," Jasmine admitted, before stirring the pot. "That man is a walking temptation. So, Sedona, I salute you for even attempting this."

Monica smirked. "Mmhmm. 'Cause Kendrick got that same smooth energy, and we all know how he looks at you."

Sedona rolled her eyes, but the warmth creeping up her neck betrayed her. "Listen, I'm determined, okay? Unlike some people, I have self-control."

Jasmine side-eyed her. "Uh-huh. We'll check back in one month and see how that's working out for you."

Sedona laughed, shaking her head as she continued stirring the pot. Deep down, she knew she was in for a challenge.

Because if Jasmine couldn't hold out against Q... would she really be able to hold out against Kendrick? She believed that she would.

The women burst into laughter again, the playful energy filling the space. Even with the teasing, the gossip, and the endless jokes, Sedona couldn't shake the excitement bubbling in her chest. Today was the day she'd talk to Kendrick about the 3-month rule.

And no matter what her friends said, she would stick to it.

...Right?

—

By the time the boys arrived later that afternoon—Schoolboy Q, Jay Rock, Ab-Soul, Dave, and Kendrick—the house was filled with the warm, enticing aroma of spices and herbs. Sedona greeted each of them warmly, making sure they removed their shoes at the door.

"Welcome, everyone!" Sedona greets, flashing a smile as Kendrick walked in last. She wrapped her arms around him in a warm hug. "Hi," She said softly, her eyes meeting his.

"Hi," Kendrick replied, his lips curving into a small smile.

The group settled around the dining area, plates piled high with Sedona's dishes. Q was the first to dive in, his eyes widening after his first bite of the mango chutney.

"Yo, Sedona," He said, holding up his fork. "This? This right here? I'm gonna need seconds."

Laughter filled the room as they ate, complimenting Sedona's cooking and teasing her and Kendrick about their new relationship.

"Damn, Sedona, you can throw down," Jay nodded in agreement. "Mind sharing a recipe?"

"Sorry, family secret," Sedona replied with a playful wink.

The afternoon was filled with laughter, jokes, and music. As the group got caught up in a heated game on the TV, Sedona saw her chance. She gently tugged Kendrick's arm, leading him out to the patio.

The afternoon sun cast a golden hue over the patio as Sedona and Kendrick stepped outside, the distant laughter and playful banter from inside fading into the background. The warmth of the day clung to her skin, but it was nothing compared to the heat she felt under Kendrick's gaze. 

He leaned against the railing, arms crossed, watching her with quiet curiosity. "Alright," He began, voice low and smooth, "what's on your mind, D?" 

Sedona swallowed, suddenly hyper-aware of how close they were. The patio wasn't small, but the way Kendrick's presence filled the space made it feel intimate. She tried to focus, fingers fidgeting with the rings on her hand, before finally meeting his eyes. "Kendrick, have you ever heard of the 3-month rule?" 

He raised an eyebrow, interest flickering in his expression. "Yeah, I've heard of it. Why?" 

Sedona took a deep breath. "I wanna try it." 

His brows lifted slightly, but he didn't interrupt. She took that as her cue to continue. "I just... I want to take my time with this. With us," She explained, voice steady but vulnerable. "I've rushed things before, and I don't want this to be like that. I want to build something real—without jumping into the physical side of it too soon." 

She watched him closely, searching for any sign of resistance or disappointment. Instead, Kendrick just studied her, his gaze deep and unreadable. The silence stretched, and for a moment, doubt crept in. Had she miscalculated? 

Then, he nodded. "I'll admit, it caught me off guard," He said finally, his voice thoughtful. "But I get it. And I respect it. If this is what you want, I'm with it." 

Relief flooded her chest, but before she could respond, Kendrick leaned forward, resting his elbows on his knees. His dark eyes locked onto hers with an intensity that sent a slow shiver down her spine. "So, no red zone, huh?" He murmured, his voice dropping just enough to make her breath hitch. "But hand-holding and kisses are cool?" 

Sedona felt warmth creep up her neck. The way he was looking at her, his tone teasing yet laced with something deeper, made it hard to focus. He was testing her already, and she knew it. 

She straightened her shoulders, forcing herself to hold her ground. "Exactly," She said, lifting her chin. "Anything beyond that is off-limits." Then, she smirked. "Except, whenever I feel like letting you be my personal masseuse." 

Kendrick chuckled, shaking his head. "You got jokes." 

She grinned, finally feeling the tension ease a little. The playful energy between them was still there, but now there was something else—a quiet understanding, a shared promise. 

Kendrick reached out then, tracing his fingers lightly over the back of her hand before lacing them with hers. His touch was warm, grounding. "I respect you for this," he said, squeezing her hand gently. "And I respect us." 

Sedona felt her heart swell, her earlier nervousness replaced with something much sweeter. They were building something real, step by step, and as she sat there with him, the evening breeze rustling through the trees, she knew one thing for sure—this was only the beginning.

As the evening wound down, Sedona stood by the door, bidding everyone goodbye. Each of the guys thanked her for the incredible meal, their satisfied expressions proof that she'd outdone herself. 

"Sedona, I'm not even playing," Schoolboy Q said, cradling a hefty to-go plate in his hands. "This chutney is life-changing. You have gots to set up a shop, I'll be there everyday." 

Sedona laughed, shaking her head. "You're ridiculous, Q. Just make sure you don't eat it all in the car." 

"No promises!" He shot back, grinning as he walked out the door. 

One by one, everyone left, expressing their gratitude. Before leaving, she had tasked them all with tidying the living room—a small price to pay for her cooking. The boys had grumbled but eventually got it done, leaving her to deal with the mountain of dishes in the kitchen. 

When the house was finally quiet, Sedona leaned against the counter, surveying the chaos left behind. Piles of plates, utensils, and pots were stacked high, all waiting for her attention. She let out a deep sigh, exhaustion tugging at her limbs. "Let me get into these dishes before I fall asleep," She muttered to herself, already dreading the task ahead. 

Kendrick, who had lingered behind, appeared in the doorway, his hands in his pockets. "Need some help?" 

Sedona turned to him, shaking her head. "You've done enough. You should get going before it gets too late." 

Kendrick didn't budge. Instead, he stepped into the kitchen, gently taking the sponge from her hand. "Scoot over," He urged, his voice soft but firm. "I got this." 

"Kenny," Sedona protested, though her tiredness was evident in her tone. "You don't have to—" 

"I know I don't have to," He interrupted, flashing her a small smile. "But I want to. Now, pass me the soap." 

Reluctantly, she handed it over, moving to his side as he started scrubbing the first plate. She grabbed a towel to dry and put away the clean dishes, falling into an easy rhythm with him. 

"Thanks for staying," Sedona said after a moment, her voice quieter now. 

"Of course," Kendrick replied without looking up. "You cooked for everybody and hosted. Least I can do is help clean up." 

They worked in comfortable silence for a bit, the clinking of dishes and running water filling the air. Then Kendrick spoke up. "You ready for the tour?" 

Sedona hesitated, her hands pausing over a dish. "I'm excited," She admitted, "But also a little nervous. It's not really my audience, you know? I mean, your fans are... well, they're there for you. What if they don't vibe with me?" 

Kendrick glanced at her, his expression reassuring. "You'll be fine. You've got the talent, Sedona. They'll see that. And if they don't? Who cares? You're doing your thing." 

She smiled at his confidence in her. "I guess so. I just want to give them a good show, you know? Make it worth their time." 

"You will," Kendrick said simply. "You've got it in you. Besides, you've got me right there if you need backup." 

Sedona chuckled, handing him another plate to rinse. "Good to know I've got you in my corner." 

"Always," He replied, and the way he said it made her chest feel warm. 

As the last dish was dried and put away, Sedona stretched, letting out a yawn. "I don't know how I'm still standing right now," She joked. 

Kendrick smirked. "You've been running on adrenaline all day. Go get some rest. I'll lock up on my way out." 

She hesitated for a moment but finally nodded, the exhaustion too heavy to argue. "Thanks, Kenny. For everything." 

"Anytime," He said softly. 

As she made her way toward her room, Sedona glanced back at him one last time, a small smile on her lips. Even though the day had been long and tiring, she couldn't help but feel grateful for how things were unfolding—both with the tour, the change in dynamic, and with Kendrick.

—

©kashdemi
Volume I- Redamancy.
Chapter Thirty-six.
— ０１／２９／２５
———————

When will WATTPAD fix its issue because it's been days now and I still can't see the bottom of my texts in order for me to update. It's annoying and it's bothering me.

The 3-month rule. Do you think either will survive because if we're being honest it will test them both in ways like never before. Do you honestly have faith in Sedona? Kendrick?

Thoughts on the chapter? And what do you expect for the next one?

Stay tuned for the next chapter, & til next time!
-shea