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Can't Help but Love You
Aisha owns her own printing company, creating custom shirts, mugs, and other things. She's guarded and has a hard time allowing men to get close to her on a serious level. One heartbreak was enough for her. She eventually learns the only one who can heal that hurt she felt years ago is the same guy who caused it. But is that possible knowing the secret she's holding onto?
Gage is doing the only thing he ever wanted, playing professional basketball. After being injured he finds himself coping with it in unethical ways. A trip back home is meant to help him regroup and refocus to get back into the game, but when he's hit with another blow, he sinks deeper. Now he's stuck battling internal demons and trying to stay above water. Will he be able to bounce back or will he lose it all from life humbling him?
These two deal with forbidden love, secrets, deception, and hitting rock bottom. Is there love enough to overcome it all?
Contains mature themes.
Gage is doing the only thing he ever wanted, playing professional basketball. After being injured he finds himself coping with it in unethical ways. A trip back home is meant to help him regroup and refocus to get back into the game, but when he's hit with another blow, he sinks deeper. Now he's stuck battling internal demons and trying to stay above water. Will he be able to bounce back or will he lose it all from life humbling him?
These two deal with forbidden love, secrets, deception, and hitting rock bottom. Is there love enough to overcome it all?
Contains mature themes.
Audible Audio
Published April 18, 2023
341 people are currently reading
260 people want to read
About the author
Tay Mo'Nae
97 books899 followersTay Mo'Nae is a 27-year-old Urban Romance author who pens about Black Love. She create stories to help her readers escape reality and create a movie in their head. She loves writing about characters that at least one reader can relate too.
With 50 books under her belt, Tay Mo'Nae hopes to gain at least one new reader with every release and have them connect to her characters and story in some way. If she would have to explain her writing she would say she loves "penning complicated characters that find a path to love".
With 50 books under her belt, Tay Mo'Nae hopes to gain at least one new reader with every release and have them connect to her characters and story in some way. If she would have to explain her writing she would say she loves "penning complicated characters that find a path to love".
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 126 reviews
May 17, 2023
This is my second time reading this book...the first time I actually read it and this time I listened to the recently released audiobook....I did enjoy the story....and if it were not for Winston James I would have been unable to get through this audiobook...the female narrator was not good for this story or characters....Authors listen....Narration is everything , especially when you are investing more resources/revenue into your project for Audiobook Lovers....I'm really not trying to be mean...BUT, the female narrator on this project was terrible and I'm angry I spent my credit and didn't borrow this audiobook from the library.
November 29, 2021
Can't Help But Love You was full of secrets, broken hearts, addiction, and forgiveness. Aisha and Gage were so young to have gone through so much. These two started a secret love affair when she was 14 and he was 17. They had to keep it on the low because of Aisha's age and because Gage was her brother's BFF. During their relationship (if you can call if that), Aisha put up with a lot from Gage. He was the star basketball player with an oversized ego and cheated every chance he got. When she finally got tired of the disrespect, Aisha blocked him and cut off all communication for four years. They reunite when Gage comes home after an injury almost ends his career. When a secret is revealed, he and Aisha try to figure things out while dealing with past hurts. Between Gage's insecurities and Aisha's mistrust, these took me through it. Their journey to a second chance was not easy at all but, it was so worth the ride. I enjoyed watching the growth between Aisha and Gage. When they finally got it together, you couldn't help but root for them. Can't Help But Love You was an intense but, sweet love story. I loved the character development and how well the storyline flowed. It's definitely worth the read.
May 14, 2022
I really enjoyed reading about the growth of Aisha and Gage both individually and as a couple. They went through some challenging times but they pulled through. The support from each other as well as their families was heartwarming. Gage did a full 180 and he was finally able to give Aisha what she deserved and Aisha’s confidence and self worth even after heartbreak was a joy to read about.
Read
June 5, 2023DNF @ 60%
December 14, 2023
While I liked the story line I didn’t not rate Gage at all he’s always been and continued to be very selfish getting mad at everyone for his poor decisions. The way he spoke about Aisha to his friends in front of her brother just disgusted me he clearly had no respect for her or his friend in the moment.
Also the underage thing is not ok and shouldn’t be portrayed at though it was.
The female narrator read like an infomercial there was just no emotion, the male narrator took a minute to get used to too.
Also the underage thing is not ok and shouldn’t be portrayed at though it was.
The female narrator read like an infomercial there was just no emotion, the male narrator took a minute to get used to too.
December 20, 2022
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Whew! Gage was a lot, yet I empathized with him. I had plenty of “bless his heart” moments while reading this. I have to say I was WAY more interested in Tae and Brenna.
I was conflicted about Aisha. There were moments when I understood her pain and still thought she was doing too much. Yet I cheered each time she let Gage know she was no longer a doormat.
Bailey was the real star here! Oh and their support network.
Whew! Gage was a lot, yet I empathized with him. I had plenty of “bless his heart” moments while reading this. I have to say I was WAY more interested in Tae and Brenna.
I was conflicted about Aisha. There were moments when I understood her pain and still thought she was doing too much. Yet I cheered each time she let Gage know she was no longer a doormat.
Bailey was the real star here! Oh and their support network.
March 14, 2021
Great story
Great story focused on redemption. It seemed that Gage couldn’t get out of his own way. Aisha despite all the bad blood between them, she was the definition of a ride or die. I’m glad Gage got with the program and focused on what really matters. His family and those who were with him for himself.
Great story focused on redemption. It seemed that Gage couldn’t get out of his own way. Aisha despite all the bad blood between them, she was the definition of a ride or die. I’m glad Gage got with the program and focused on what really matters. His family and those who were with him for himself.
May 23, 2023
3.5 stars I liked the story but I got frustrated with Gage until he admitted his feelings. Then it was a bit boring after that point.
dnf
December 10, 2024DNF @12%
April 14, 2022
“Being a 22-year-old single mom wasn’t ideal, but I never allowed my age to hold me back from being a good mother”
“Gage was a fling from the past. I knew he wasn’t thinking about me, and the last thing I needed to be doing is worrying about him.”
“It had been two years since I last laid eyes on her physically, but that didn’t stop my heart from racing at this moment.
Aisha was beautiful. Curly, honey-blond hair framed her oval face. Her bright, golden brown, doe-shaped eyes were squinted from how hard she was smiling. I chewed on my bottom lip, zeroing in on her pink, full ones.
There were so many things left unsettled between us. I wasn’t sure if we’d ever be able to hash it all out, but I wanted to try while being home. She was one thing I needed to make right in my life if I wanted to do better.”
“Stepping forward, I didn’t wait for her to reply. I grabbed her and pulled her into me, hugging her tightly.
It had been years, but her body still fit perfectly into mine.”
“Shit with us had always been sticky, but the two of us made it work. Then out of nowhere, it was all over.
I never questioned why she cut me off suddenly because our situation wasn’t ideal, and I was selfish as hell in the past, especially when it came to her.
None of that mattered right now though, because laying eyes on Aisha again caused feelings I thought were juvenile to come rushing back to me”
“NO!” I quickly shut her down.
I sat straight up. “Do you know how this would play out if the truth came out?”
“At this point, you don’t have a choice, Aisha! You have to tell Gage he’s Bailey’s dad, and you have to tell your family you’ve been lying for the past four years.”
“You gone tell me why you snuck out my room in the middle of the night then blocked me all those years ago?”
She pressed her lips together and glanced off to the side.
I chuckled lowly.
“Still no legit reason?”
“You know we should have never been sleeping together in the first place.”
“I didn’t have the best track record. I even kept Aisha in the shadows for my own selfish reasons, but it didn’t change the fact that I did have feelings for her. It didn’t sit well with me that she didn’t realize or understand that.”
“Just when I was about to speak, I was silenced by his lips on mine. My heart threatened to leap from my chest when his tongue invaded my mouth, sending a shiver through me. The tension I was feeling moments ago seemed to disappear and was quickly replaced with hunger”
“Abruptly, Gage pulled away from me.
He stared at me again with a blank expression and now swollen lips.
“You’re just like everyone else. Only ever see the worse in me.”
I was lost by Gage’s words and confused when he walked off”
“I had finally decided to come clean about who her father was. After being around him, I knew there was no way to continue this lie without my conscience consuming me.”
“Back when I was sneaking around with Gage, I ignored all the fuck boy signs. He didn’t want me messing with anyone else but didn’t want to be with only me, and I complied with that because I was in love with him. I couldn’t complain because we were messing around in secrecy”
“I tried to tell my body to get up and go over there, but I couldn’t move. “You’re a pretty little girl Bailey,” Gage told her.
“Thank you!” Our daughter smiled brightly.
Gage’s expression suddenly fell. His head tilted slightly and his eyes squinted.
His tongue swiped across his lips.
“How old is she?” Gage suddenly asked.
My heart sped up even more. I felt like it about to leap out of my chest.
“Three.”
My fists balled up at my sides. The room suddenly felt hotter than usual.
Gage’s dark eyes went around the room until they found mine. His nose slightly flared.
An icy fear twisted around my heart.
“Who’s her dad again?” Gage asked, keeping his eyes on me.
The walls suddenly felt like they were closing in on me. I blinked a couple of times, wishing I was anywhere but here.
This wasn’t how I wanted Gage to find out about Bailey. This wasn’t how I wanted anyone to find out.”
“Gage,” I finally said, unable to take the silence anymore.
“Is she mine?” His expression darkened.
I swallowed hard. “Why would you ask that?”
“Answer the question, Aisha. Is. She. Mine?”
“she continued. “I was in love with you, Gage. I had been since I was fourteen, but I continued playing the background because I was simply happy to be in your life. For years I watched you with a bunch of women unable to say anything because we were a secret. When I mentioned them to you, you always told me not to worry and stay in my lane. I was so young and dumb that I listened. I allowed you to flaunt other women around in my face then sneak around and be with me when it was convenient for you.
The last night I was with you, we were talking about you going pro. You were bragging about being the number one draft pick, about how you were about to go pro, and the changes that were coming to you. You talked about the plethora of women you would have at your disposal, how much money you were going to come into, and how life was about to go up for you.
I sat there in silence, listening to you brag and light up about everything you were about to experience. My brother called you right after[…]”
“Gage, you would be off playing pro ball! Traveling the world, partying, living the dream! Where did a baby fit into that Gage? I didn’t want you to have to put limitations on that. I thought what I was doing was best.”
“For whom, Aisha!” I shot up out of my seat. “Who the hell did you think you were helping by keeping my child away from me! All the shit you’re spitting is bullshit! I don’t give a damn about me going pro. I had the right to know we made a child!”
“Instead of feeling upset, I was angry. I know I should have been said something, but Gage knew he had a kid now, and instead of trying to deal with the reality of that, he was off partying and rekindling with some skanky ex-girlfriend.
Scrolling through the pictures and re-reading the caption only confirmed why I kept Bailey from him. I knew Gage wasn’t ready to be a dad, and I wouldn’t subject my baby to any inconsistency from him.”
“I also knew I couldn’t ignore my issues back home forever. I just didn’t know if I was even ready to be a dad. Kids weren’t on my radar. I enjoyed living my life as I wanted. Having a kid thrown into it was a huge culture shock.”
“Your life will never go back to that, son. Until you wake up and face the music, you’re never going to be able to move forward and heal,” my mom said, coming back into the room.
She sat next to my dad. “Maybe you should call the rehab back, Gage.”
“I don’t need rehab.”
“Maybe they could introduce you to a therapist to help you.”
“I don’t need help. I just need my life back. I want to be paid the money I’m worth and not be seen as some broken has-been!”
“He shook his head. “You know one reason why I was pissed about Aisha fucking with you is that I know you aren’t good enough for her. All you give a fuck about is yourself and my sister and niece both deserve better than that”
“This is why I didn’t want to tell you! This is why I kept her away. You don’t even want her!”
“NO, you kept her away because you were bitter! Stop trying to make me the bad guy in all this!”
“Leave Gage, just go! You don’t want this, and my daughter doesn’t need you! I told you I won’t let her have anyone inconsistent in her life!”
I snatched my door open, but Gage pushed it closed. “When did you become like this? The Aisha I knew before was never this bitter and angry!”
“The Aisha you knew before was a pushover for you. She let you walk all over her and disregard her feelings just to have a spot in your life. I’m not that girl anymore, and I’ll never be that girl again. Now my daughter and I have a date, move!”
“I didn’t know how to feel right now. I wanted to be upset with Gage for freezing up, but I couldn’t force him to be ready.
“I’m your dad!” Gage exclaimed, making me halt.”
“Maybe an off button is what I need.” His head dropped. “I’m not going to say I’m going to be perfect at this, Aisha, but give me a chance before you count me out.”
I swallowed the knot that formed in my throat. “Okay,” I told him lowly. “I don’t mind you getting to know her. I don’t know how this will go, but I won’t get in your way. She deserves to have a father, and I don’t want to be the reason why she doesn’t.”
“I shrugged. “I had love for her, I did, but if you’re asking me if I was in love with her, then I honestly don’t know. I didn’t give a fuck about love back then. Like you said, I had females flocking to me left and right. I didn’t take any of them seriously. Aisha though, I didn’t see her like that, but I was selfish with her. I didn’t want to share her with anyone else but wouldn’t just be with her. No matter if I loved her or not, I cared about her a lot”
“I rolled my eyes. “I told you I didn’t have a man.”
“You just out fucking random niggas?”
I was uneasy by how cold his voice was and disconnected his eyes looked but also had some satisfaction when I realized Gage was jealous.
“What I do and with who isn’t your business. Worry about Bailey.”
“Back in high school, when he found out that I was dating someone else.
It was the first time I actually saw Gage show that he had genuine feelings for me.
A small smile formed on my face.
I wasn’t trying to beef with Gage since we been doing so good, but at the same time, I enjoyed seeing him get riled up like he was. It showed me what I saw back then, he actually did care.”
“I wasn’t expecting knowing Aisha being with someone to affect me as much it did. However, she never straight out told me she was fucking other guys, even though I suspected she wouldn’t save herself. When I was dealing with Aisha when we were younger, I knew she kept her pussy on lock for me. Knowing I was the first and only one in her always made me feel some ownership of her. Finding out firsthand that wasn’t the case anymore, lowkey stung.”
“I had never been jealous of anyone. I never had a reason to be. What I wanted I got, but right now, seeing how cozy Aisha and West looked had me ready to tip this table over.”
“Aisha was frowning at me, breathing heavily. I guess she had been sitting on that shit for a while now. My eyes went to her lips. They were poked out and begging for me to taste them.
Ignoring everything she just said, I grabbed her wrist and snatched her into me, crashing my lips on hers. She tried to protest, but I wrapped my arm around her waist, pulling her closer.”
“I went to close the door, but she called my name.
“You know you can get your girl back, right?”
“What?”
She rolled her eyes. “Don’t look like that. I see how you be checking her out. I also noticed how upset you got when she was talking to West.”
I chuckled. “Aisha not fucking with me.”
“Because she thinks you’re the same guy you were four years ago.”
“It was time for me to show Aisha exactly how far from that old nigga I truly was.”
“Yeah, I think we’re due for a storm all night.”
Bailey instantly popped into my mind. My baby hated storms and got extremely antsy in them. There was only one thing that helped her with them, and she didn’t have it with her”
“Bailey, look at me. What’s wrong?” Her small hands left her eyes.
She looked up at me with tear-filled eyes stretching her arms to me. “Daddy!” she cried.
For a moment, I paused. Joy shot through me, hearing Bailey acknowledge me as her dad for the first time. I couldn’t explain the giddiness that filled my stomach or how my heart expanded in my chest”
“I don’t know if it was a stroke to my ego or what, but I enjoyed kissing you, and I wasn’t a big kisser back then, shit still ain’t.”
“You could have fooled me,” she mumbled.
I smirked. “Maybe I just like kissing you.”
“I dropped the ball when I let you slip from my grasp, but I don’t want to be the reason why you’re alone. If anyone deserves to be catered to and loved, it’s you.”
Aisha didn’t respond right away. Sluggishly her head lifted, and I saw tears clouding her eyes. Panic shot through me, thinking I said something wrong to her.
“What’s wrong?”
A small smile forced its way on her face. “I just, I never thought I would hear you apologize to me. I mean, that just isn’t you.”
“Because Gage, you have your flaws, but I know you have so much potential to be greater. Look at how you’ve stepped into being a father. You’re so stuck at looking at how your life was that you don’t see the good things still going. You’re so much better than those pills, and I don’t want you to lose yourself in them. Regardless of what happened between us, Gage, I still love you and never want to see you down bad. So please, if you have those urges, say you’ll call me.”
My heart thumped against my rib cage. It fought for space within my chest with the air frozen in my lungs. For the first time, I was tongue-tied on how to respond. I wasn’t used to feeling so open.”
“Stop acting like that, man.”
Confusion filled my face. “Like what?”
“Like I don’t fucking know you. I don’t know how many times I have to tell you I fucked with you heavy. You might have thought I didn’t always pay attention, but I did. You weren’t just some random ass girl I was fucking Aisha. The sooner you realize that the better.”
“Ignoring him, I gave it a light squeeze. “I’m hungry for you, Gage. I want your dick buried inside of me.”
I instantly noticed his breathing changing.
He turned to look at me for a second. His eyes were now darkened.
“You sure you want that?” His tongue swiped over his lips.
“You always told me not to be afraid to ask for it, right?” My eyebrow rose.”
“I’ll never hurt you again, baby, I promise.” I stared into her eyes so she could see I was serious. I was done running.
Aisha had been here this whole time, and my ass was too caught up to see it. But I wasn’t about to miss out on her again”
“I had to play this situation with Aisha right. I had a habit of fucking up everything good that happened to me lately, and I didn’t want to add her to the list again.”
“I’m ready, Aisha,” I confessed when she didn’t answer.
“For what?”
“For this, for us. I’m ready to love you like you always wanted”
“You’re still the same manipulative guy you were back then!”
I sat up and watched her stomp around her room. “What the hell are you talking about?”
“Because you need me to help you, you suddenly want to love me. What about when I begged you for that shit, Gage! What about when you confessed your addiction to me and I told you I had you. You didn’t mention anything about wanting to love me, not even when we first slept together, but now that you need a favor, you’re ready!”
“So, what can I do to change that? Tell me what you need from me.” His eyes pleaded with me, and it almost made me cave, but I couldn’t.
“I told you I would be there for you and I meant that, but Gage, you and me, I just can’t.” I shook my head”
“I still don’t know why you chose me.” He brushed a few curls from my face. “You’re too good for me, always have been.”
“Don’t talk like that.”
“I don’t want to be in love alone again.”
Gage moved his face closer to me. “Show me how to love you correctly and you won’t. I swear to you, it’s you and me in this together. No funny shit.”
“Being selfish and fixated on just my problems had me off my game.
So, I’m letting go. I’m not stressing over anything anymore. I’ma step back and allow you to take the lead on rebuilding my brand. If it works, then it works, and if it doesn’t.” I shrugged. “I have more important things in my life that should have my attention.”
“I don’t know what I did to get you in my life, but I’m thankful as fuck, man. Most women would have given up on me or not given a fuck, but not you. I should have been made you mine.”
My heart threatened to leap out my chest.
“It just wasn’t our time.”
Gage licked his lips. “You right, but now it is and I’m never letting you slip out my grasp again. I promise you that. Whatever I need to do to ensure this works, I’ma do.”
“I want to love you how you’re supposed to be loved and spoil you every day. I want to be strong for you when you need me to be. I have never been in a serious relationship before. I want to try with you. I told you I can’t lose you again, and I’m willing to do whatever it takes to keep you. I want you more than I’ve wanted anything in my life.”
“I kissed my way to her ear and pecked it softly a few times. “I love you,” I grunted, digging deeper into her.
At that moment, I saw our future flash through my eyes. I knew there was no one else for me. Aisha had come and wrapped herself around my heart, and I never wanted her to lighten up.”
“That cool with you? Giving me two more?”
I pondered over his question. “I don’t mind having more kids, but I don’t want to be pushing out all these kids with no ring on my finger.” I lifted my left hand and wiggled my fingers.”
“You defending me was sexy as hell. I almost thought you was gone try and slap her.”
Aisha rolled her eyes. “I should have.”
Smiling, I leaned down and dug my face into her neck, kissing it. “You for real love a nigga like me, huh?” I lifted my head to look at her.
Aisha lifted her arms and wrapped her arms around me. “I do, and I won’t hesitate to speak up when someone tries you.”
“I’m making you my fiancée before this year is over,” Gage said into my hair while I laid in his arms.
I was exhausted from our sex session and my eyes were growing heavier by the minute.
“And we’re getting married next year.”
I lifted my head from his chest and stared at him. “You mean that?” I searched his eyes. “I don’t want you to feel like you have to right now if you’re not ready.”
Gage tightened his hold on me. “I know, and I don’t. You changed me and helped me become a better person. There’s nothing I want more than to make you mine officially.”
“Gage was a fling from the past. I knew he wasn’t thinking about me, and the last thing I needed to be doing is worrying about him.”
“It had been two years since I last laid eyes on her physically, but that didn’t stop my heart from racing at this moment.
Aisha was beautiful. Curly, honey-blond hair framed her oval face. Her bright, golden brown, doe-shaped eyes were squinted from how hard she was smiling. I chewed on my bottom lip, zeroing in on her pink, full ones.
There were so many things left unsettled between us. I wasn’t sure if we’d ever be able to hash it all out, but I wanted to try while being home. She was one thing I needed to make right in my life if I wanted to do better.”
“Stepping forward, I didn’t wait for her to reply. I grabbed her and pulled her into me, hugging her tightly.
It had been years, but her body still fit perfectly into mine.”
“Shit with us had always been sticky, but the two of us made it work. Then out of nowhere, it was all over.
I never questioned why she cut me off suddenly because our situation wasn’t ideal, and I was selfish as hell in the past, especially when it came to her.
None of that mattered right now though, because laying eyes on Aisha again caused feelings I thought were juvenile to come rushing back to me”
“NO!” I quickly shut her down.
I sat straight up. “Do you know how this would play out if the truth came out?”
“At this point, you don’t have a choice, Aisha! You have to tell Gage he’s Bailey’s dad, and you have to tell your family you’ve been lying for the past four years.”
“You gone tell me why you snuck out my room in the middle of the night then blocked me all those years ago?”
She pressed her lips together and glanced off to the side.
I chuckled lowly.
“Still no legit reason?”
“You know we should have never been sleeping together in the first place.”
“I didn’t have the best track record. I even kept Aisha in the shadows for my own selfish reasons, but it didn’t change the fact that I did have feelings for her. It didn’t sit well with me that she didn’t realize or understand that.”
“Just when I was about to speak, I was silenced by his lips on mine. My heart threatened to leap from my chest when his tongue invaded my mouth, sending a shiver through me. The tension I was feeling moments ago seemed to disappear and was quickly replaced with hunger”
“Abruptly, Gage pulled away from me.
He stared at me again with a blank expression and now swollen lips.
“You’re just like everyone else. Only ever see the worse in me.”
I was lost by Gage’s words and confused when he walked off”
“I had finally decided to come clean about who her father was. After being around him, I knew there was no way to continue this lie without my conscience consuming me.”
“Back when I was sneaking around with Gage, I ignored all the fuck boy signs. He didn’t want me messing with anyone else but didn’t want to be with only me, and I complied with that because I was in love with him. I couldn’t complain because we were messing around in secrecy”
“I tried to tell my body to get up and go over there, but I couldn’t move. “You’re a pretty little girl Bailey,” Gage told her.
“Thank you!” Our daughter smiled brightly.
Gage’s expression suddenly fell. His head tilted slightly and his eyes squinted.
His tongue swiped across his lips.
“How old is she?” Gage suddenly asked.
My heart sped up even more. I felt like it about to leap out of my chest.
“Three.”
My fists balled up at my sides. The room suddenly felt hotter than usual.
Gage’s dark eyes went around the room until they found mine. His nose slightly flared.
An icy fear twisted around my heart.
“Who’s her dad again?” Gage asked, keeping his eyes on me.
The walls suddenly felt like they were closing in on me. I blinked a couple of times, wishing I was anywhere but here.
This wasn’t how I wanted Gage to find out about Bailey. This wasn’t how I wanted anyone to find out.”
“Gage,” I finally said, unable to take the silence anymore.
“Is she mine?” His expression darkened.
I swallowed hard. “Why would you ask that?”
“Answer the question, Aisha. Is. She. Mine?”
“she continued. “I was in love with you, Gage. I had been since I was fourteen, but I continued playing the background because I was simply happy to be in your life. For years I watched you with a bunch of women unable to say anything because we were a secret. When I mentioned them to you, you always told me not to worry and stay in my lane. I was so young and dumb that I listened. I allowed you to flaunt other women around in my face then sneak around and be with me when it was convenient for you.
The last night I was with you, we were talking about you going pro. You were bragging about being the number one draft pick, about how you were about to go pro, and the changes that were coming to you. You talked about the plethora of women you would have at your disposal, how much money you were going to come into, and how life was about to go up for you.
I sat there in silence, listening to you brag and light up about everything you were about to experience. My brother called you right after[…]”
“Gage, you would be off playing pro ball! Traveling the world, partying, living the dream! Where did a baby fit into that Gage? I didn’t want you to have to put limitations on that. I thought what I was doing was best.”
“For whom, Aisha!” I shot up out of my seat. “Who the hell did you think you were helping by keeping my child away from me! All the shit you’re spitting is bullshit! I don’t give a damn about me going pro. I had the right to know we made a child!”
“Instead of feeling upset, I was angry. I know I should have been said something, but Gage knew he had a kid now, and instead of trying to deal with the reality of that, he was off partying and rekindling with some skanky ex-girlfriend.
Scrolling through the pictures and re-reading the caption only confirmed why I kept Bailey from him. I knew Gage wasn’t ready to be a dad, and I wouldn’t subject my baby to any inconsistency from him.”
“I also knew I couldn’t ignore my issues back home forever. I just didn’t know if I was even ready to be a dad. Kids weren’t on my radar. I enjoyed living my life as I wanted. Having a kid thrown into it was a huge culture shock.”
“Your life will never go back to that, son. Until you wake up and face the music, you’re never going to be able to move forward and heal,” my mom said, coming back into the room.
She sat next to my dad. “Maybe you should call the rehab back, Gage.”
“I don’t need rehab.”
“Maybe they could introduce you to a therapist to help you.”
“I don’t need help. I just need my life back. I want to be paid the money I’m worth and not be seen as some broken has-been!”
“He shook his head. “You know one reason why I was pissed about Aisha fucking with you is that I know you aren’t good enough for her. All you give a fuck about is yourself and my sister and niece both deserve better than that”
“This is why I didn’t want to tell you! This is why I kept her away. You don’t even want her!”
“NO, you kept her away because you were bitter! Stop trying to make me the bad guy in all this!”
“Leave Gage, just go! You don’t want this, and my daughter doesn’t need you! I told you I won’t let her have anyone inconsistent in her life!”
I snatched my door open, but Gage pushed it closed. “When did you become like this? The Aisha I knew before was never this bitter and angry!”
“The Aisha you knew before was a pushover for you. She let you walk all over her and disregard her feelings just to have a spot in your life. I’m not that girl anymore, and I’ll never be that girl again. Now my daughter and I have a date, move!”
“I didn’t know how to feel right now. I wanted to be upset with Gage for freezing up, but I couldn’t force him to be ready.
“I’m your dad!” Gage exclaimed, making me halt.”
“Maybe an off button is what I need.” His head dropped. “I’m not going to say I’m going to be perfect at this, Aisha, but give me a chance before you count me out.”
I swallowed the knot that formed in my throat. “Okay,” I told him lowly. “I don’t mind you getting to know her. I don’t know how this will go, but I won’t get in your way. She deserves to have a father, and I don’t want to be the reason why she doesn’t.”
“I shrugged. “I had love for her, I did, but if you’re asking me if I was in love with her, then I honestly don’t know. I didn’t give a fuck about love back then. Like you said, I had females flocking to me left and right. I didn’t take any of them seriously. Aisha though, I didn’t see her like that, but I was selfish with her. I didn’t want to share her with anyone else but wouldn’t just be with her. No matter if I loved her or not, I cared about her a lot”
“I rolled my eyes. “I told you I didn’t have a man.”
“You just out fucking random niggas?”
I was uneasy by how cold his voice was and disconnected his eyes looked but also had some satisfaction when I realized Gage was jealous.
“What I do and with who isn’t your business. Worry about Bailey.”
“Back in high school, when he found out that I was dating someone else.
It was the first time I actually saw Gage show that he had genuine feelings for me.
A small smile formed on my face.
I wasn’t trying to beef with Gage since we been doing so good, but at the same time, I enjoyed seeing him get riled up like he was. It showed me what I saw back then, he actually did care.”
“I wasn’t expecting knowing Aisha being with someone to affect me as much it did. However, she never straight out told me she was fucking other guys, even though I suspected she wouldn’t save herself. When I was dealing with Aisha when we were younger, I knew she kept her pussy on lock for me. Knowing I was the first and only one in her always made me feel some ownership of her. Finding out firsthand that wasn’t the case anymore, lowkey stung.”
“I had never been jealous of anyone. I never had a reason to be. What I wanted I got, but right now, seeing how cozy Aisha and West looked had me ready to tip this table over.”
“Aisha was frowning at me, breathing heavily. I guess she had been sitting on that shit for a while now. My eyes went to her lips. They were poked out and begging for me to taste them.
Ignoring everything she just said, I grabbed her wrist and snatched her into me, crashing my lips on hers. She tried to protest, but I wrapped my arm around her waist, pulling her closer.”
“I went to close the door, but she called my name.
“You know you can get your girl back, right?”
“What?”
She rolled her eyes. “Don’t look like that. I see how you be checking her out. I also noticed how upset you got when she was talking to West.”
I chuckled. “Aisha not fucking with me.”
“Because she thinks you’re the same guy you were four years ago.”
“It was time for me to show Aisha exactly how far from that old nigga I truly was.”
“Yeah, I think we’re due for a storm all night.”
Bailey instantly popped into my mind. My baby hated storms and got extremely antsy in them. There was only one thing that helped her with them, and she didn’t have it with her”
“Bailey, look at me. What’s wrong?” Her small hands left her eyes.
She looked up at me with tear-filled eyes stretching her arms to me. “Daddy!” she cried.
For a moment, I paused. Joy shot through me, hearing Bailey acknowledge me as her dad for the first time. I couldn’t explain the giddiness that filled my stomach or how my heart expanded in my chest”
“I don’t know if it was a stroke to my ego or what, but I enjoyed kissing you, and I wasn’t a big kisser back then, shit still ain’t.”
“You could have fooled me,” she mumbled.
I smirked. “Maybe I just like kissing you.”
“I dropped the ball when I let you slip from my grasp, but I don’t want to be the reason why you’re alone. If anyone deserves to be catered to and loved, it’s you.”
Aisha didn’t respond right away. Sluggishly her head lifted, and I saw tears clouding her eyes. Panic shot through me, thinking I said something wrong to her.
“What’s wrong?”
A small smile forced its way on her face. “I just, I never thought I would hear you apologize to me. I mean, that just isn’t you.”
“Because Gage, you have your flaws, but I know you have so much potential to be greater. Look at how you’ve stepped into being a father. You’re so stuck at looking at how your life was that you don’t see the good things still going. You’re so much better than those pills, and I don’t want you to lose yourself in them. Regardless of what happened between us, Gage, I still love you and never want to see you down bad. So please, if you have those urges, say you’ll call me.”
My heart thumped against my rib cage. It fought for space within my chest with the air frozen in my lungs. For the first time, I was tongue-tied on how to respond. I wasn’t used to feeling so open.”
“Stop acting like that, man.”
Confusion filled my face. “Like what?”
“Like I don’t fucking know you. I don’t know how many times I have to tell you I fucked with you heavy. You might have thought I didn’t always pay attention, but I did. You weren’t just some random ass girl I was fucking Aisha. The sooner you realize that the better.”
“Ignoring him, I gave it a light squeeze. “I’m hungry for you, Gage. I want your dick buried inside of me.”
I instantly noticed his breathing changing.
He turned to look at me for a second. His eyes were now darkened.
“You sure you want that?” His tongue swiped over his lips.
“You always told me not to be afraid to ask for it, right?” My eyebrow rose.”
“I’ll never hurt you again, baby, I promise.” I stared into her eyes so she could see I was serious. I was done running.
Aisha had been here this whole time, and my ass was too caught up to see it. But I wasn’t about to miss out on her again”
“I had to play this situation with Aisha right. I had a habit of fucking up everything good that happened to me lately, and I didn’t want to add her to the list again.”
“I’m ready, Aisha,” I confessed when she didn’t answer.
“For what?”
“For this, for us. I’m ready to love you like you always wanted”
“You’re still the same manipulative guy you were back then!”
I sat up and watched her stomp around her room. “What the hell are you talking about?”
“Because you need me to help you, you suddenly want to love me. What about when I begged you for that shit, Gage! What about when you confessed your addiction to me and I told you I had you. You didn’t mention anything about wanting to love me, not even when we first slept together, but now that you need a favor, you’re ready!”
“So, what can I do to change that? Tell me what you need from me.” His eyes pleaded with me, and it almost made me cave, but I couldn’t.
“I told you I would be there for you and I meant that, but Gage, you and me, I just can’t.” I shook my head”
“I still don’t know why you chose me.” He brushed a few curls from my face. “You’re too good for me, always have been.”
“Don’t talk like that.”
“I don’t want to be in love alone again.”
Gage moved his face closer to me. “Show me how to love you correctly and you won’t. I swear to you, it’s you and me in this together. No funny shit.”
“Being selfish and fixated on just my problems had me off my game.
So, I’m letting go. I’m not stressing over anything anymore. I’ma step back and allow you to take the lead on rebuilding my brand. If it works, then it works, and if it doesn’t.” I shrugged. “I have more important things in my life that should have my attention.”
“I don’t know what I did to get you in my life, but I’m thankful as fuck, man. Most women would have given up on me or not given a fuck, but not you. I should have been made you mine.”
My heart threatened to leap out my chest.
“It just wasn’t our time.”
Gage licked his lips. “You right, but now it is and I’m never letting you slip out my grasp again. I promise you that. Whatever I need to do to ensure this works, I’ma do.”
“I want to love you how you’re supposed to be loved and spoil you every day. I want to be strong for you when you need me to be. I have never been in a serious relationship before. I want to try with you. I told you I can’t lose you again, and I’m willing to do whatever it takes to keep you. I want you more than I’ve wanted anything in my life.”
“I kissed my way to her ear and pecked it softly a few times. “I love you,” I grunted, digging deeper into her.
At that moment, I saw our future flash through my eyes. I knew there was no one else for me. Aisha had come and wrapped herself around my heart, and I never wanted her to lighten up.”
“That cool with you? Giving me two more?”
I pondered over his question. “I don’t mind having more kids, but I don’t want to be pushing out all these kids with no ring on my finger.” I lifted my left hand and wiggled my fingers.”
“You defending me was sexy as hell. I almost thought you was gone try and slap her.”
Aisha rolled her eyes. “I should have.”
Smiling, I leaned down and dug my face into her neck, kissing it. “You for real love a nigga like me, huh?” I lifted my head to look at her.
Aisha lifted her arms and wrapped her arms around me. “I do, and I won’t hesitate to speak up when someone tries you.”
“I’m making you my fiancée before this year is over,” Gage said into my hair while I laid in his arms.
I was exhausted from our sex session and my eyes were growing heavier by the minute.
“And we’re getting married next year.”
I lifted my head from his chest and stared at him. “You mean that?” I searched his eyes. “I don’t want you to feel like you have to right now if you’re not ready.”
Gage tightened his hold on me. “I know, and I don’t. You changed me and helped me become a better person. There’s nothing I want more than to make you mine officially.”
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Read
January 12, 2024DNF at 83% which seems crazy but I found myself skimming pages. The MMC was so unlikeable and didn’t feel a connection to this couple or the story.
July 14, 2024
Audiobook & EBook Review
Audiobook
3.5 stars
The female narrator was not good at all. It was hard to listen to her. Her voice just didn't fit this character personality.
The male narrator saved this audiobook!
If I didn't have the eBook and just had to listen to the audiobook, I would have skipped all of the female parts. And just listened to the males.
EBook
5 stars
The storyline and character development were good.
Audiobook
3.5 stars
The female narrator was not good at all. It was hard to listen to her. Her voice just didn't fit this character personality.
The male narrator saved this audiobook!
If I didn't have the eBook and just had to listen to the audiobook, I would have skipped all of the female parts. And just listened to the males.
EBook
5 stars
The storyline and character development were good.
February 11, 2025
Can't Help But Love You
Business owner Aisha and professional basketball player Gage deal with real life drama. It's always a good book when you read the author Tay Mo'Nae's work.
3/23/2021.
Business owner Aisha and professional basketball player Gage deal with real life drama. It's always a good book when you read the author Tay Mo'Nae's work.
3/23/2021.
September 20, 2022
Try
Gage and Aisha were a lot, yet once they got over all the trials, I liked them.
Gage was super selfish and at first I didn't like him. Once he truly hit rock bottom, did I see his true self start to seep out. I thought he'd relapse, yet with his family and Aisha supporting him, he found a new addiction in her and they're daughter. I can only see things going up for him.
I was infuriated at Aisha for keeping the truth of their daughter from not only Gage, but her family too. I love that her best friend, Brenna, was there for her and told her to spill the beans sooner, yet the way it all played out was the only way it would come to a head, and boy did it. While I get that her brother, Tae was upset with finding out his sister and best friend not only had been sleeping with each other for years, but they'd also had a baby together, he was super hypocritical to be secretly messing with her best friend behind her back too. Either way, once it all cooled down, everyone was able to talk about it all and move forward.
I love that Aisha was so persistent with helping Gage. She was firm in her love and stance on him not controlling her, yet being by his side at his lowest points as well. She is a great person and mom and I'm glad Gage finally woke up to see that he's always had a winner in his corner in Aisha.
The whole Adrianna, his ex, situation with Gage was toxic. He only sought her out when he was spiraling and I'm glad he let her be. She thought that being with Reggie, a teammate and weak dude imo, of Gages would make him jealous, yet he said good riddance and let them both be. I'm glad Gage got to knock Reggie out. He was a jealous punk and talked too much.
The family and friends bond in this story was one I loved. I can't wait to read more about all of this crew.
Great read. Highly recommend.
Gage and Aisha were a lot, yet once they got over all the trials, I liked them.
Gage was super selfish and at first I didn't like him. Once he truly hit rock bottom, did I see his true self start to seep out. I thought he'd relapse, yet with his family and Aisha supporting him, he found a new addiction in her and they're daughter. I can only see things going up for him.
I was infuriated at Aisha for keeping the truth of their daughter from not only Gage, but her family too. I love that her best friend, Brenna, was there for her and told her to spill the beans sooner, yet the way it all played out was the only way it would come to a head, and boy did it. While I get that her brother, Tae was upset with finding out his sister and best friend not only had been sleeping with each other for years, but they'd also had a baby together, he was super hypocritical to be secretly messing with her best friend behind her back too. Either way, once it all cooled down, everyone was able to talk about it all and move forward.
I love that Aisha was so persistent with helping Gage. She was firm in her love and stance on him not controlling her, yet being by his side at his lowest points as well. She is a great person and mom and I'm glad Gage finally woke up to see that he's always had a winner in his corner in Aisha.
The whole Adrianna, his ex, situation with Gage was toxic. He only sought her out when he was spiraling and I'm glad he let her be. She thought that being with Reggie, a teammate and weak dude imo, of Gages would make him jealous, yet he said good riddance and let them both be. I'm glad Gage got to knock Reggie out. He was a jealous punk and talked too much.
The family and friends bond in this story was one I loved. I can't wait to read more about all of this crew.
Great read. Highly recommend.
March 5, 2021
I swear I didn't want this book to end...
Dayyyuuummm Queen Tay put her all into this one, like I could read about Gage & Aisha all day, lbvvs. Then her brother Tae & bestie Breanna needs their own story, fr fr🤞🏽👀.
I ain't gonna lie Aisha kinda had me pissed of when I found out she had lied about who her bd was and never told him about the baby. I get her reasons, but just like she accused Gage of being selfish, so was she. Making the decision to move on if he didn't wanna he involved ok, but just keeping a child from their father cause you're feeling some line a way about how y'all relationship played out is selfish as, period.
Her bestie Breanne was the truth, she ain't sugar coat ish, especially when it came to her keeping Bailey from Gage. Her & Tae tho, they make since and I'm here for it😜.
I loved both their parents and they didn't hold back when it came to the tough love. Their families were amazing and the support from them was priceless.
Poor Martin & Rickey didn't stands a chance once she gave Gage the😺😂😂😂. Rickey was super salty and his mitch ways showed when he tried to come for Gage, smdh.
I freakin loved Bailey, she was such an amazing little girl. She was the perfect combination of her parents😍
That 'ol trifling Reggie and his thot Adrianna deserved each other and although that ass whooping gave gave him cost him, Reggie deserved it.
Aisha & Gage were made for each other and I'm glad they were able to move pass the past and build a future together. The sex, Bay-be😜💦💦💦! When Gage asked her "who😺is this"I felt that ish in my middle😜🤦🏽😂.
I would love, love, love to get an update on them through reading Tae & Breanna story🤞🏽🙏🏽👀👀👀. Definitely a must read😘
Dayyyuuummm Queen Tay put her all into this one, like I could read about Gage & Aisha all day, lbvvs. Then her brother Tae & bestie Breanna needs their own story, fr fr🤞🏽👀.
I ain't gonna lie Aisha kinda had me pissed of when I found out she had lied about who her bd was and never told him about the baby. I get her reasons, but just like she accused Gage of being selfish, so was she. Making the decision to move on if he didn't wanna he involved ok, but just keeping a child from their father cause you're feeling some line a way about how y'all relationship played out is selfish as, period.
Her bestie Breanne was the truth, she ain't sugar coat ish, especially when it came to her keeping Bailey from Gage. Her & Tae tho, they make since and I'm here for it😜.
I loved both their parents and they didn't hold back when it came to the tough love. Their families were amazing and the support from them was priceless.
Poor Martin & Rickey didn't stands a chance once she gave Gage the😺😂😂😂. Rickey was super salty and his mitch ways showed when he tried to come for Gage, smdh.
I freakin loved Bailey, she was such an amazing little girl. She was the perfect combination of her parents😍
That 'ol trifling Reggie and his thot Adrianna deserved each other and although that ass whooping gave gave him cost him, Reggie deserved it.
Aisha & Gage were made for each other and I'm glad they were able to move pass the past and build a future together. The sex, Bay-be😜💦💦💦! When Gage asked her "who😺is this"I felt that ish in my middle😜🤦🏽😂.
I would love, love, love to get an update on them through reading Tae & Breanna story🤞🏽🙏🏽👀👀👀. Definitely a must read😘
February 8, 2022
Whew!
Ms. Mo'Nae I do not know where I need to start in this review on Aisha and Gage. One thing is for sure, I am glad I took the time to engage in this masterpiece. Gage and Aisha experienced so much from family secrets, addiction, to anger management. The secret that Aisha withheld about Bailey was detrimental to the families but it was also a blessing in disguise. Gage was heading down a dark rabbit hole going about 100mph however learning of Bailey changed his direction. He needed that type of responsibility to have his wake-up call. Little Miss Bailey woke him half the way and Aisha meet her and woke the other half. It was great to see him transition into a real man. His healing and growth were admirable. I was glad when he finally accepted the recommendations his PR suggested. All of the recommendations were spot-on.
This is one of those books that just makes you feel good once you read it from cover to cover. It Is almost as if you are on the sidelines fist-pumping for the couple to make it while anticipating the pivot in Gage's life. It took an almost life or death event to fully wake Gage but that event changed the trajectory of his life. You will enjoy this book especially if you are into basketball and second chance loves. I am looking forward to any upcoming books hopefully 🤞🏾 one with 👰🏾 and expansion of the family 🤰🏾. I would love to know if Tae and Brenna became a couple. I feel like they had more than a 'friends with benefits" relationship. I highly suggest this book, get into it. It's worth every word written.
Ms. Mo'Nae I do not know where I need to start in this review on Aisha and Gage. One thing is for sure, I am glad I took the time to engage in this masterpiece. Gage and Aisha experienced so much from family secrets, addiction, to anger management. The secret that Aisha withheld about Bailey was detrimental to the families but it was also a blessing in disguise. Gage was heading down a dark rabbit hole going about 100mph however learning of Bailey changed his direction. He needed that type of responsibility to have his wake-up call. Little Miss Bailey woke him half the way and Aisha meet her and woke the other half. It was great to see him transition into a real man. His healing and growth were admirable. I was glad when he finally accepted the recommendations his PR suggested. All of the recommendations were spot-on.
This is one of those books that just makes you feel good once you read it from cover to cover. It Is almost as if you are on the sidelines fist-pumping for the couple to make it while anticipating the pivot in Gage's life. It took an almost life or death event to fully wake Gage but that event changed the trajectory of his life. You will enjoy this book especially if you are into basketball and second chance loves. I am looking forward to any upcoming books hopefully 🤞🏾 one with 👰🏾 and expansion of the family 🤰🏾. I would love to know if Tae and Brenna became a couple. I feel like they had more than a 'friends with benefits" relationship. I highly suggest this book, get into it. It's worth every word written.
April 28, 2022
So let me tell y'all how much I loved this. I didn't know if I could hang with a book about people so young, but I really enjoyed reading it. Aisha and Gage have a complicated relationship, and they both have secrets. It was fun watching them let their guards down and learn to trust each other. Their love is a stumbling, fumbling, mess, but they get it right--and they learn from their mistakes. I love their supportive families, and they way they all rely on each other. They have a village; that was really nice to see.
Their passion is my very favorite part of this. Y'all know I love me a hot couple and Aisha and Gage are hot. The teasing and the wanting, it was perfect. They were passionate, and very very sexy. Gage was demanding and dominant, which I love, and Aisha was free to be herself, which I also loved.
I am definitely going to find something else by her to read. Fantastic.
Their passion is my very favorite part of this. Y'all know I love me a hot couple and Aisha and Gage are hot. The teasing and the wanting, it was perfect. They were passionate, and very very sexy. Gage was demanding and dominant, which I love, and Aisha was free to be herself, which I also loved.
I am definitely going to find something else by her to read. Fantastic.
March 24, 2021
Can't Help but Love You
Reggie was clearly salty. He was doing too much but his bitterness was yet another thing that pushed Gage to do better. Aisha got caught up but revealing the truth not only lifted a burden off her but also gave Bailey and Gage the opportunity to bond. Gage was clearly all about self and held a lot of anger. It seemed as if life kept throwing him curveballs. I wasn't surprised about Brenna and Tae because there were some hints that gave them away. I hate that Bailey had to deal with a scare but it helped Gage realize what so many people had been telling him. I loved what Aisha and Gage were building because they both deserved happiness. Gage really changed once Aisha came back into his life and she proved she'd always gave his back regardless of what happened between them.
Reggie was clearly salty. He was doing too much but his bitterness was yet another thing that pushed Gage to do better. Aisha got caught up but revealing the truth not only lifted a burden off her but also gave Bailey and Gage the opportunity to bond. Gage was clearly all about self and held a lot of anger. It seemed as if life kept throwing him curveballs. I wasn't surprised about Brenna and Tae because there were some hints that gave them away. I hate that Bailey had to deal with a scare but it helped Gage realize what so many people had been telling him. I loved what Aisha and Gage were building because they both deserved happiness. Gage really changed once Aisha came back into his life and she proved she'd always gave his back regardless of what happened between them.
January 11, 2023
There is not much that I can add to what my fellow reviewers have already stated. This was a very good read by Tay Mo'nae. This is my third or fourth read from this author and she did not dissappoint. I enjoyed reading about the challenges and accomplishments as well as the growth and development both Aisha and Gage displayed in this book.
Aisha was the more mature one of the two however, she showed that at the age of 18 that she still had a lot more to learn. I was very surprised that with the amount of love and support her family showed that she felt like she had to keep her child's father a secret, when she conceived she had already turned 18. I would have been more embarrased to share that I had gotten pregnant by a complete stranger and one night stand vs a childhood friend and my brother's best friend.
Gage was very immature and self centered. I was disaapointed that he waited until he was grown to use his parents as resources for help and advice. His family also provided lots of love and support to him and only wanted to see him succeed.
Great characters and story building, I look forward to reading more books from Tay's catalouge.
Aisha was the more mature one of the two however, she showed that at the age of 18 that she still had a lot more to learn. I was very surprised that with the amount of love and support her family showed that she felt like she had to keep her child's father a secret, when she conceived she had already turned 18. I would have been more embarrased to share that I had gotten pregnant by a complete stranger and one night stand vs a childhood friend and my brother's best friend.
Gage was very immature and self centered. I was disaapointed that he waited until he was grown to use his parents as resources for help and advice. His family also provided lots of love and support to him and only wanted to see him succeed.
Great characters and story building, I look forward to reading more books from Tay's catalouge.
February 17, 2025
This wasn't an easy book to get through. I really understood why Aisha kept her secret. Gage needed to do a lot of work on himself. I can't believe he hadn't been in therapy for years because dude had some serious issues. He had absolutely no insight into his issues and no one around him had the balls to call him on his crap!
It made it really hard to root for him because he genuinely didn't have much likable about him. He did have a lot of growth but the majority of the book was him being a clueless dickhead.
The epilogue was extremely short and I was hoping to see more of the after part but hopefully we'll see more of them around Butter Ridge Falls.
This definitely wasn't a favorite of mine from this author but I liked the premise of the story for sure.
It made it really hard to root for him because he genuinely didn't have much likable about him. He did have a lot of growth but the majority of the book was him being a clueless dickhead.
The epilogue was extremely short and I was hoping to see more of the after part but hopefully we'll see more of them around Butter Ridge Falls.
This definitely wasn't a favorite of mine from this author but I liked the premise of the story for sure.
February 1, 2022
A second chance at love ❤️
This book was everythingggggg. I was mad Aisha wanted Gage to just be on board after she got exposed for keeping his child away from him. He eventually got it together and became a great father.
Gage was going through so much, fighting his own demons, and getting in his on way. He needed Aisha and didn’t even know it. She and Bailey made him want to do better and for them he did just that.
I absolutely loved their love story. The storyline character development and dialogue was perfect! I’m sad it had to end 🥺
I knew Tae and Brenna was creeping around and would love to read a story on them.
Absolute amazing work queen 👏🏾
This book was everythingggggg. I was mad Aisha wanted Gage to just be on board after she got exposed for keeping his child away from him. He eventually got it together and became a great father.
Gage was going through so much, fighting his own demons, and getting in his on way. He needed Aisha and didn’t even know it. She and Bailey made him want to do better and for them he did just that.
I absolutely loved their love story. The storyline character development and dialogue was perfect! I’m sad it had to end 🥺
I knew Tae and Brenna was creeping around and would love to read a story on them.
Absolute amazing work queen 👏🏾
January 11, 2024
Coming full circle
This was a great read. Now Aisha knows she was wrong for not telling Gage about Bailey. Her reasons were somewhat valid but it was mostly personal. Gage was going through a lot, his injury, slight hiccup with addiction and a bruised ego. It took him some time but he finally got it together. Aisha to was a little spoiled and it was a bit annoying but she definitely had built a good life for herself and Bailey. I loved how both families supported them but also got in the behind when needed. I’m glad everything worked out in the end. Great job as always Tay!!
This was a great read. Now Aisha knows she was wrong for not telling Gage about Bailey. Her reasons were somewhat valid but it was mostly personal. Gage was going through a lot, his injury, slight hiccup with addiction and a bruised ego. It took him some time but he finally got it together. Aisha to was a little spoiled and it was a bit annoying but she definitely had built a good life for herself and Bailey. I loved how both families supported them but also got in the behind when needed. I’m glad everything worked out in the end. Great job as always Tay!!
February 9, 2025
Redemption
Gage really played in Aisha’s face when they were sneaking around behind everyone’s back. Sëxíng her in private but flaunting other females in her face publicly. The best thing that could have happened to Gage was his injury because it made him have a different perspective on life and showed him the life style changes that he needed to make. Life humbled him and he saw exactly who really had his back. I like the fact that Bailey made him work to hear that “Daddy” title and that Aisha made him prove his love for her with actions as well. I’m excited to read their wedding edition book next.
Gage really played in Aisha’s face when they were sneaking around behind everyone’s back. Sëxíng her in private but flaunting other females in her face publicly. The best thing that could have happened to Gage was his injury because it made him have a different perspective on life and showed him the life style changes that he needed to make. Life humbled him and he saw exactly who really had his back. I like the fact that Bailey made him work to hear that “Daddy” title and that Aisha made him prove his love for her with actions as well. I’m excited to read their wedding edition book next.
March 8, 2021
Yessss.... second time is the best!
This was so refreshing and so nice. These two started out young, very young, lost contact due to life and selfishness and immaturity, but they reunite and from there had to learn again.
I thought Aisha’s character was good. A little bit too much at times and to righteous but the pain and the quick growing up made her this way. Where as Gage was just a spoiled, annoying little boy in a man’s body, and yet only MS. Monaye could have gotten such characters and made them work.... very well
This was so refreshing and so nice. These two started out young, very young, lost contact due to life and selfishness and immaturity, but they reunite and from there had to learn again.
I thought Aisha’s character was good. A little bit too much at times and to righteous but the pain and the quick growing up made her this way. Where as Gage was just a spoiled, annoying little boy in a man’s body, and yet only MS. Monaye could have gotten such characters and made them work.... very well
March 18, 2021
Second chance at love
This was a great read. I loved the character development and how well the story flowed. A second chance at love 💜💜💜. Gage and Aisha were a handful. With all the secrets coming to light did the most instead of facing the issues as adults. However once they got it together, they were stronger than ever. Being the parents bailey need. Aisha loved him thru his demons without judgement. The growth of the characters in the end were commendable. Definitely worth the read ❤❤
This was a great read. I loved the character development and how well the story flowed. A second chance at love 💜💜💜. Gage and Aisha were a handful. With all the secrets coming to light did the most instead of facing the issues as adults. However once they got it together, they were stronger than ever. Being the parents bailey need. Aisha loved him thru his demons without judgement. The growth of the characters in the end were commendable. Definitely worth the read ❤❤
March 9, 2022
Second chance
First thing first an editor is needed. This book had so many errors I stopped so many times because I couldn’t keep up. Also she was very repetitive every other chapter she mentioned how much of a f*ck up Gage was and how much he hurt Aisha back in the day and blah blah blah I was so tired of reading that. Gage was very likable in other books I read with him in it but his book didn’t give me what I thought it would so that was disappointing. The character development was there and some really cute moments but that’s about it. Definitely not what I expected
First thing first an editor is needed. This book had so many errors I stopped so many times because I couldn’t keep up. Also she was very repetitive every other chapter she mentioned how much of a f*ck up Gage was and how much he hurt Aisha back in the day and blah blah blah I was so tired of reading that. Gage was very likable in other books I read with him in it but his book didn’t give me what I thought it would so that was disappointing. The character development was there and some really cute moments but that’s about it. Definitely not what I expected
August 23, 2022
Aisha and Gage were together when they were younger. Aisha hadn't seen Gage in 4 years but happened to run into him again when he came back to town. Gage was in town due to troubles he was going through with his NBA career and in his personal life. With secrets being revealed and emotions emerging, Aisha and Gage eventually find their way back to each other. This is a emotion-packed second chance at love story that also has moments of drama and humor. Pick this book up and you won't be disappointed.
May 21, 2024
ugh
First of all the age gap of when they started messing around was disgusting . Two, I didn’t like Aisha . Despite how the issues between her and Gabe Aisha was just as selfish as Gabe . She literally didn’t tell that man he was a father because he broke her heart and then instead of the people around her holding her accountable they gave her a pass and was disappointed at Gabe for his reaction . Make it make sense ? The book had some good parts but overall it wasn’t anything I haven’t read before .
First of all the age gap of when they started messing around was disgusting . Two, I didn’t like Aisha . Despite how the issues between her and Gabe Aisha was just as selfish as Gabe . She literally didn’t tell that man he was a father because he broke her heart and then instead of the people around her holding her accountable they gave her a pass and was disappointed at Gabe for his reaction . Make it make sense ? The book had some good parts but overall it wasn’t anything I haven’t read before .
March 3, 2021
Worth the wait!!!
Yessss I love love loved it. I just loved everything about aisha and gage. Things started off rocky when he first got back in town and she dropped that bomb on him about Bailey but to see them rebuild their friendship and turn it into more was so dope. I loved how no matter what Aisha was still there gage. I would to have a story on tae and brenna. Overall 5 star read
Yessss I love love loved it. I just loved everything about aisha and gage. Things started off rocky when he first got back in town and she dropped that bomb on him about Bailey but to see them rebuild their friendship and turn it into more was so dope. I loved how no matter what Aisha was still there gage. I would to have a story on tae and brenna. Overall 5 star read
March 4, 2021
Can’t Help but Love You
Tay Monae knows how to tell a story!!! Although this was a story about Aisha and Gage... when I tell you she developed the heck out of Gage I mean every word!!!! The growth of this character was phenomenal and as a reader I could feel his every struggle and triumph.
He was annoying in the beginning in my opinion but his why is what made him my favorite part of the story! Read it and enjoy 💖
Tay Monae knows how to tell a story!!! Although this was a story about Aisha and Gage... when I tell you she developed the heck out of Gage I mean every word!!!! The growth of this character was phenomenal and as a reader I could feel his every struggle and triumph.
He was annoying in the beginning in my opinion but his why is what made him my favorite part of the story! Read it and enjoy 💖
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