The Forbidden Hustle: A Love Story From The Streets

Jade and Kadda's story began in the most modern of ways through a random Facebook friend request. One evening, as Jade scrolled through her notifications, she noticed an unfamiliar name. Curious, she clicked on Kadda's profile and saw they shared a few mutual friends. Intrigued by his charismatic profile picture and the idea of expanding her circle, she accepted his request. Their initial conversations were light, filled with the typical getting-to-know-you questions. Kadda seemed genuinely interested in Jade's life, asking about her job and interests. Then, one day, he revealed a significant detail about himself he was currently incarcerated. It was a shock to Jade. She had never considered the idea of dating someone in jail. However, Kadda's honesty and charm were disarming, and Jade found herself giving this unconventional relationship a chance. As days turned into weeks, they settled into a routine. Jade, busy with her work commitments, found comfort in their frequent conversations, while Kadda, careful to avoid getting caught with his contraband phone, cherished the connection that broke the monotony of prison life. They became each other's escape, confiding in one another and sharing dreams of the future. However, cracks began to appear when Kadda first showed signs of deceit. One evening, he told Jade he needed to charge his phone and would call her back after a shower. Hours passed without any word. Unbeknownst to Jade, Kadda had been talking to her former best friend, not realizing the two women knew each other. When Jade discovered the betrayal, her heart sank, and she ended things What followed was a barrage of apologies from Kadda. He called and texted constantly, insisting it was a mistake that would never happen again. Eventually, his persistence wore Jade down, and after nearly a month, she took him back, hoping things would be different this time When Kadda was released from prison in December, their relationship seemed to blossom briefly. They spent time together, and for a short while, it felt like they had found their rhythm. But by February, old habits resurfaced. Kadda became distant, making vague promises of seeing her but rarely following through. He stopped answering phone calls, and when he did appear, his visits were brief and unsatisfying. Jade continued to hope for change, especially with their anniversary approaching and the excitement of expecting their daughter. But Kadda's behavior only worsened. He became disrespectful, and their interactions grew volatile. Even after their daughter was born, the cycle of neglect and mistreatment persisted, leaving Jade to question the love story she had believed in. Their tumultuous journey marked by love, trust, deceit, and forgiveness revealed the reality of a relationship that began with promise but was ultimately undone by broken promises and unresolved issues. Jade's story is one of hope, heartache, and resilience. In her past relationships, Jade had always kept love at a distance. Whenever a partner expressed deep feelings or said "I love you," her instincts screamed for self-preservation, and she would end things to protect herself from the vulnerability and pain love often brought. But Kadda was different. From their first conversations, he broke down the walls she had carefully built around her heart. His charm and persistence drew her in, and before she realized it, Jade found herself falling deeply in love with him something she had always avoided. As time passed, love became entangled with pain. Kadda's actions began to contradict his promises. He cheated, and although it hurt, Jade stayed. She held on, hoping things would improve, believing in the man she thought he could become. Even when he treated her poorly and respect was lacking, she clung to the remnants of their love. The breaking point came when Kadda contracted an STD.