Read Online Flaw Less by Shana Burton - Free Book Online

indoor track, Kina prepared to leave, unaware that someone had been watching her.
    â€œSo, how many pounds have you lost?”
    Kina turned around. “Excuse me?”
    A woman with sister-locked twists offered a kind smile. “I know a success story when I see one. I’ve been coming to this gym for a while. I’ve seen you here a few times, enough to know that you’ve shed some serious LBs, so how much have you lost?”
    Kina grinned, ecstatic that someone had noticed. “I’ve lost thirty-three pounds and counting.”
    The woman’s eyes widened. “Wow, that’s impressive. How long did it take to come off?”
    â€œI’ve been seriously working out and watching what I eat for about six months now.”
    The woman outstretched her toned arms. Kina caught a glimpse of her strong, sculpted mahogany legs as well. “This is what six days a week for five years in the gym will get you.” She put her arms down. “It wasn’t that long ago that I couldn’t stand to look at myself in the mirror. Now, I can’t stay out if it!”
    Kina laughed. “I can’t wait until I’m at that point, but I definitely like what I see more than I used to. I decided to make some changes after . . .” Kina bit her lip.
    â€œAfter what?”
    Kina shook her head. “It’s not important.”
    The woman encouraged her. “Sure it is. What were you going to say?”
    Kina exhaled. “After my husband died a year ago.”
    â€œOh, I’m so sorry to hear that. Was he sick?”
    â€œNot the way you mean.”
    The woman nodded, understanding. “Well, look, if you ever want to talk about it, I’m a great listener.” She laughed a little. “I guess it would help if I told you my name first. I’m Joan.” She extended her hand.
    Kina received it. “I’m Kina.”
    Joan smiled. “That’s pretty. I like that . . . Kina.”
    â€œJoan is nice too,” complimented Kina. “It’s a name that evokes strength and confidence.” She paused. “Plus, I was a huge fan of Girlfriends . Joan was always my favorite.”
    Joan chuckled. “Joan was a little neurotic for me. I always liked Toni. She was just so fiery and sexy.”
    â€œAnd a complete witch—don’t forget about that!” added Kina with a laugh. “I actually have a very close friend who’s just like that.”
    â€œDon’t we all?” retorted Joan. They both laughed. Joan’s laughter was infectious. “Hey, listen, have you finished up your workout?”
    Kina wiped her sweaty brow with a towel. “Yeah, why?”
    Joan checked her watch. “It’s after six o’clock, and I haven’t even had lunch yet. You wanna grab a bite to eat? It’s my treat. I know we just met, like, five minutes ago, but I’d love the company. Truth be told, I hate eating alone. It’s one of the downsides to single life.”
    â€œDon’t I know it!” Kina patted her stomach. “You know I could use a li’l something on the belly, but you don’t have to pay for it.”
    â€œNo, I want to. Don’t worry—I’ll let you treat next time! Hopefully, this is just the first of many meals together.”
    Kina was thrown a little by the invitation, but she too hated eating alone and agreed to a bite at a café across the street. Besides, Joan seemed cool. Kina was amazed by how quickly the two of them hit it off.
    â€œSo, Kina,” began Joan once they’d sat down, “tell me what you like to do for fun.”
    â€œ Fun?” repeated Kina. “I hardly know what that is anymore! Fun is one of those things I’ll get to eventually. Right now, everything is all about work, school, my son, and, of course, my church.” The corners of Joan’s mouth dipped into a frown. Kina picked up on it right away. “Did I say something