Tony and I discuss business and how far he has gone in getting his broker’s licence."Jordan, you've had that look on your face for a while now," Tony remarks with a knowing smile. “What are you thinking of?"It's not what, but who I’ve been thinking about. Patricia has been on mind more often than usual lately. I can't contain my excitement as I respond to his question."Patricia.”"Hmmm."”We've been together for five months now, and it's been incredible. I've never been happier in a relationship."Tony raises an eyebrow playfully. “Five months, huh? That's a significant milestone considering how single you’ve been.”I roll my eyes at him, and he laughs. “I’m happy for you, bro.""She's amazing, Tony," I continue. "She's not only beautiful but also incredibly kind and caring. Thoughtful too. We have this connection, this understanding, that I've never felt with anyone else. I look forward to every moment we spend together, and she's brought a level of happiness into my life that I c
“Your home is so beautiful. The architect, the interior designer, and every other person who contributed to erecting this beast deserve an award. It’s beautiful and massive.”“Thank you very much. We bought it right before it got on the market.”“That’s nice. It must have cost a fortune.”“It did, but it was our dream home.”“Many people will literally kill to live here, and thank you, Brittney. That surprise getaway was so memorable.”“Thank Jordan. It was his idea, and he paid for both of us. Besides, hanging out with you was fun.”“Hanging out with you too was fun, and what if you didn’t agree to go with me? So thank you.”“It’s fine. What would you like to drink?” She asks. “Water, thanks.”She gives me a funny stare and then wiggles her eyebrows.“What?” I ask, confused.“I thought we bonded on our getaway. You sneaky woman.” She says, grinning.“I’m confused.”“You are pregnant.” She says, grinning even wider while doing a weird dance.I choke on my saliva, trying to make out w
Tonight, I'm proposing to Patricia; the stars are illuminating the dark sky, and the waves, softly splashing. There is something enchanting about the scene, making it the perfect place for a proposal. There's only one thing left to do: get down on one knee and propose, but I am nervous for some reason."You love her; she loves you; she loves you; she’s going to be your wife,” I repeat this mantra to myself to boost my confidence a bit.Although I meticulously planned every detail, I seem to be forgetting my lines, so I go over them again while she is in the washroom. I pace around the room, mumbling the lines softly and suddenly, Patricia’s voice startles me. How come I didn’t hear her come up?I take a deep breath, go down on one knee, and bring out the ring box from my pocket."Patricia, from the moment I met you, my life changed in ways I could never have imagined. You brought peace and joy into my world, and I can't imagine my life without you. You're the most incredible woman I'
“I'm so happy. One of my birthday wishes is coming to pass, and it's not even my birthday yet.” Ray says, squealing.She gives her dad a high-five and hugs him tightly.“Thanks, Dad. I have a mother now, and soon a sister, and then a brother, and one big happy family. Here is for a job well done, Daddy.” She says raising her hands for another high-five while Jordan and I watch in amusement.“I'm the happiest child in the world right now, Daddy. Dreams do come true.”"Yeah, baby, dreams do come true,” Jordan says, staring at me.“I'll leave you two lovebirds. I want to tell Ashanti that she has to come for the wedding.”“Okay, baby.”“Mom, I'll be back before you know it.” She clicks her tongue and sashays out before I can respond.“You make us all happy. I love you, Süsser. I wouldn't want to do this world with anyone else than you.”“I love you too, Jai.” The doorbell rings, calling our attention.“That must be mom and dad,” Jordan says.“I'm so nervous. What if they don't like me en
I'm quite enthusiastic about my engagement celebration, which is a few days away. I've been looking through P*******t endlessly for clothing inspiration because it's my first choice for almost anything related to fashion. I've at last decided on a theme for our engagement. I had no idea these things could be such a hassle. All that's left is to know Jordan’s take. Well, speak of the angel.“Hello, my sweet, sweet potato,” he says.“Jai hun, What do you think of a beach team for our engagement party?” I ask, showing him some pictures from P*******t."It's cool. I love the idea. Anything you want, susser, works well with me. Just keep me updated on the cost of payment and let me know whenever I'm needed for an input or something.” He kisses my forehead and snatches my cookie, throwing the entire thing into his mouth.“You are such a big bully!” I whine.“But you had the entire box to yourself, sweet.”“And you ate the last of it, and you know it's my favourite.”“We are about to be joine
The clouds begin to turn grey, giving the light from the lanterns and tiki torches more illumination.“Finally, the intended couple graces us with their presence." My cousin Jamal announces, surprising me.If I were to count my many blessings, my family would make it to the top of the list. Seeing how everyone travelled down despite how busy they are and how far they live, especially my cousins Jamal, Kendrick, Kendall, Helena, and Marcus, who all live on different continents, I thought Jamal and Kendrick wouldn’t make it due to the increased demand for gemstones from their customers.We make our way to the decorated sofa reserved for us. Mr. Jimmy Brooks and his wife, Samantha Brooks, are the only friends we invited aside from Tony and Brittney, who look as though that baby can pop out anytime soon.“Süsser, I wasn't aware you ordered an ice sculpture.”“I didn't, Jai. I just got to find out that the Brooks did.”“Oh, it's gigantic.”“You can say that again.”“They shouldn’t have, es
The smell of damp pine trees gave the air a clean, fresh feeling. A thick blanket of white snow shrouded the houses, the ground, and the trees. The telltale signs of Christmas are everywhere: twinkling lights, decorated houses, trees, a cheery atmosphere, the sporadic playing of hymns and carols, an abundance of green and red colours, flashes of silver and gold, busy ornament stores, and Santas ringing bells at every corner.Both the inside and the outside of the house have been adorned for Christmas. Ray, Jordan, and I constructed some enormous snowmen outdoors. The mansion is decked out in rainbow fairy lights. White fairy lights dangle from the stairwell, and Christmas trees with distinctive designs adorn every room in the house. The mansion is decked out for the holidays, with Christmas spirit permeating every space.There are so many elegant outfits that I have personally chosen for this unique event that I am having trouble deciding which one to wear. Ray and I are both incredib
“Are you sure you want to spend Christmas at my parent’s place?”"Yes, I am. Don’t you?”“If she wants us there, why not? I just want to make sure you are comfortable, and there’s the last-minute request.”“I am comfortable; besides, she doesn’t bite, and Ray is so excited."“Mother spoils her silly; of course she would. I wouldn’t be surprised if Mother gifted her another Birkin bag this Christmas.” He says he is arranging the last hamper in the car.“I’m guessing she got one last Christmas?”“And three Christmases’ before.”Okay??“Why do you have that look on?” he asks.“Because the Christmas gift I got her doesn’t even come close at all. What if she doesn’t like it?”“Süsser, you know she will. Anything that comes from you, she treasures."I cross-check the boot to see if all our loads are complete and intact.“Fingers crossed. Your mom’s calling.”“Ray? Come down, let’s go. Your grandma is blaring up my phone.”“Daddy, can I share food and gifts with you guys tomorrow?”“Sure,” J
Epilogue6 months later I tap my fingers on the driving wheel, humming along to the pulse of the road, feeling the beat echo within. Each song becomes a personal concert, and my audience is the world outside my window. With each note, the journey transforms into an adventure full of songs and delight, making every mile unique.The late afternoon sun cast a warm glow as I drive , my pregnant belly gently cradled by the steering wheel as I embark on a journey to pick up Ray from her mother Vanessa's house. The anticipation of seeing Ray radiates through me blending with the rhythmic kicks of the little one in my belly.Arriving at Vanessa's house, I take a moment to steady myself before ringing the doorbell. Vanessa greets me with a warm smile. "Thanks for doing this, Patricia, for allowing Ray spend the weekend even though it wasn’t my week.” Vanessa says her expression soft with gratitude."It's my pleasure. Ray and I have a special bond, and it’s important that she has that type of
“Son, we are so happy for you.” father says super proud “Your father is right and we are glad you are very happy because we see how your face lights up all the time.”“Thanks. I love how both of you show up for me every time and support me. How you guys helped me raise Ray with unwavering love.”“You are our child and she's our granddaughter. It's our duty.” father says.“All the same, thanks again.” “I’ll leave you two to discuss while I check on what's cooking.” mother says excusing us.“So how's work?”“Going smoothly, dad. Thanks for asking.”“Don’t you think it's high time you take a break?”“I was thinking so too. Tony and I are organizing a group trip for our ladies.”“Now that's my boy. How's Ray and how’s she coping with this new chapter?”“Surprisingly good. Vanessa is good with children and I'm wondering what changed.”“People change. You did too.”I nod, father's words sinking in. "Yeah, people do change," I agree, pondering the evolution of myself and those around me."Y
The car hums softly as we embark on the journey back home after an emotional reunion with Ray's birth mother, Vanessa. The air in the car is thick with a mixture of lingering tension and unspoken questions. Ray, sitting in the back seat, stares out of the window, seemingly lost in thought. I wonder how she must be feeling after meeting her mother and if she has any question on her mind. Jordan, his hands steady on the wheel, steals a glance at Ray. Concern etched on his face, he speaks gently, "Ray, how are you feeling?"Ray sighs , her gaze still fixed on the passing scenery. "I don't know, Dad. It's a lot to process." I turn in my seat reaching out to touch Ray's hand. "We're here for you, sweetheart. Whatever you're feeling, it's valid."Ray nods , a small smile playing on her lips. "I appreciate that, Mom." I love it when she calls me mom and the thought of having a little child growing in me that will call me mom as well is so exciting. The car moves in a comfortable silence
Vanessa stands there, seemingly untouched by time, her slender figure and unchanged appearance hinting at a timeless beauty. There's a momentary question lingering as to whether she could truly be the mother of the boys following behind, given the absence of any visible resemblance."Vanessa," I call out from the car."Welcome to my home. Jordan and Patricia, thank you very much for this. I do not take it lightly," she acknowledges."Hi, Rachel. It's so lovely to see you. I'm Vanessa.""Hi, Mom," Ray greets warmly.Vanessa's face lights up, glowing with joy like a myriad of stars."Can I give you a hug?""Yes, please," Ray responds, embracing her eagerly."These are my sons, Gabriel and Nathaniel Parker. My husband and their father are late," she announces."Sorry for your loss," we chorus, following the boys' greetings."It's alright. It was a long time ago. Shortly after I got married to him, he took ill and passed. Let's not waste any further time out here. Let's all go in."As we
It's a relief that Jordan and I were able to work through our issues and emerge with a renewed vow to never let secrets ruin our relationship. The lesson acquired from the difficult experience emphasised the critical value of honesty and transparency.What truly surprised me was Jordan's apology for his impulsive decision to ask me to leave without taking the time to process everything. Admittedly, my choice to withhold essential information felt like a significant breach of trust, casting a shadow over our relationship.However, Jordan's perspective on the dynamics of marriage startled me. Despite the hurt caused by my actions, he believed that a successful marriage necessitates navigating such challenges through open communication and forgiveness.At that moment, I felt conflicting emotions—my initial guilt for withholding information, Jordan's surprising apology, and his conviction in the essential aspects of trust and openness in a marriage. It forced me to rethink my concept of t
In the solitude of this past week, amidst the echo of my own thoughts, I've embarked on an odyssey within myself. In the wake of shattered trust, I find myself navigating a labyrinth of emotions, haunted by the echoes of betrayal. Yet, amidst the debris of fractured promises, there's a yearning to rebuild what was once a sanctuary of companionship. The road to reconciliation feels like walking on shards of glass, each step a cautious maneuver to bridge the chasm that divides us. But within this tempest of hurt lies a glimmer of hope, a desire to unearth the truth, to mend the rift, and perhaps forge a stronger bond, weathered yet resilient in the face of adversity.The air in my father's study hangs heavy with the weight of unspoken words and hidden truths. Stepping into this sanctum of memories, the familiar scent of aged books and polished wood offers solace amidst the impending revelation.Mother's absence is a blessing in this moment, sparing her the pain that lingers within the d
The ticking clock echoes in my quiet room, each passing second emphasizing the void left by three days of strained silence. The memory of the argument with Jordan replays in my mind, the pain still fresh, and the weight of regret settling in my chest.My phone lies untouched on the table, its screen devoid of messages or missed calls. I can't bring myself to break the silence, understanding that the wounds from my actions need time to heal. I feel empty without him, unable to eat or sleep properly, spending my days confined in the room, looking like a mess.Regret gnaws at my conscience as I replay the argument in my mind. I had kept a secret, thinking it would be a protective shield for Jordan, only to realize that it has become a barrier between us. Communication truly is key in a relationship; the outcome might have been totally different if I had spoken to him about it as soon as it happened and we had discussed ways on how to go about it. Now I feel like I’ve lost his trust and I
I lay in the hotel bed totally famished and emotionally drained. I don't deserve this. My head is spinning from days of trying to phantom everything that has happened.We were supposed to be on our way to Greece today. I hope she's out when I get back. I need a break from her to be able to think things through. If I'm going to have to get over her which I doubt is possible, I would have to see less of her or her things till I've made a decision. I feel so betrayed!I had to put off my phone because she kept calling non-stop. Only Tony knows my whereabouts and what's going on. I can't bring myself to tell my parents.A knock on my door draws my attention back to my surroundings. That must be room service. I can't let them see me like this.“I'm very busy at the moment, kindly check back later,” I say from behind the door.“It's Tony man.”Arghhhhhh. How do I conceal the wounds on my knuckles?“I'm waiting or else I'll have them bring down this door.”I open the door and resume back to m
The weight of reality hits me hard—I can't believe he found out before I had the chance to tell him. Not that his reaction would have been different, but I wanted to be the one to explain. The door closes behind me, leaving me on the floor, where minutes ago I was pleading with Jordan not to leave.Unable to stand, I remain seated, weeping, and wondering how it came to this. It's only been three months of marriage, and now this. What if he decides on a divorce? I can't lose him; imagining life without him feels unbearable.The gravity of the situation hits me, and I crumble into more tears, my shoulders shaking with the weight of heartache. Realizing I've lost something irreplaceable, coupled with the remorse for not trusting Jordan with the truth, devastates me. I should have mentioned it the very day Bryan sent the message, but I just couldn't. And now, my greatest fear has come true.I don’t know how long I sit crying, but by the time I wake up, it’s past nine. Summoning the courag