The Final Chapter
House was a massive understatement for the building they pulled up to. The estate sat on at least ten acres, the mansion 24,000 square feet. Russell fiddled with Carson, instructing Leo and the waitstaff on where to take their luggage. He held Nariah back, waiting until everyone disappeared to close the distance between them. “There’s something very important that I need to tell you.” Seriousness creased his brow, the feeling so intense, Carson stopped moving. “Everything I told you about my father is true.”
“Okkaayy.”
“But I didn’t tell you everything.”
The hairs on the back of Nariah’s neck raised. “Like what? Does he know I’m black?”
Russell dropped his head, smoothing the new stubble on his cheeks, which seemed to just have appeared. “Yeah but—”
“But what?”
“He doesn’t really approve of interracial dating. He’s not against it, but it’s not something he wants his sons to engage in.”
“What the fuck, Russell?” She dropped her voice. “Why didn’t you tell me sooner?”
“I didn’t think I’d ever bring you to meet him.”
Nariah walked around to the other side of the car, disappearing as she sat in the back seat. Her skin was hot with anger. Once again, he kept a secret from her. Taking deep breaths to calm herself, she remembered her and her mother’s talk. As she calmed, she was better able to consider his reasons for not telling her. She saw that she had done the same thing in prolonging the meeting between him and her family.
“I’m sorry, baby,” Russell apologized when she reemerged. “I didn’t mean to spring this up on you. Dad was trying to back out, that’s what the call was about.”
“We’re here now.” She checked her hair in her compact, smoothing it down.
“You look beautiful.”
“Thank you, but I’m trying not to look too black,” she spat.
Russell laughed off the remark. “Keep that up and he’ll love you.”
When they were halfway to the door, it swung open. A shorter, less tanned version of Russell came bounding out. “There’s the superstar.” He and Russell exchanged hugs, slapping each other hard on the back. “And you must be my soon to be sister-in-law.”
“If I am, no one told me.”
“Baby, Nariah, this is my little brother Morgan. He’s named after our mother.”
“Why is that the first thing you have to tell her? Why didn’t you tell her that I hold the record for making three pointers at our high school?”
“Because that doesn’t matter,” Russell answered.
“Did he tell you he was king of the pine?”
“He did. And I’m proud of him anyway.” Nariah chuckled.
“I can already tell she’s a keeper.”
“That’s my girl.” Russell passed Carson to Morgan, who tossed him in the air, their giggles mirroring one another’s. With an arm around Nariah’s waist, he led the way into the house.
The interior was vastly different than what Nariah had imagined, closer to the contemporary style of the Florida house than what the traditional exterior suggested. As she walked through the massive foyer she slipped her shoes off, placing them on the rack in the wardrobe. The first signs of life occurred as they entered the great room, a six-person kitchen staff hard at work. Morgan told them to make themselves comfortable as he went to retrieve the rest of the family.
“Your parents and brother live here by themselves?” Nariah asked.
“Technically yes, but they have dinner parties at least every other night, so they’re not without company.”
Nariah continued to observe her surroundings, feeling as she would dirty the couch just by sitting on it. For the first time in a long time, she became uncomfortable with her skin tone. For the most part, after Olivia convinced her, Russell being a different skin color shouldn’t stop her from loving him, she was colorblind. In fact, she had forgotten he was white at all. It didn’t help that the entire kitchen staff looked like her. She was able to dismiss her concern, betting their food was exceptional.
“You can sit down,” Russell said, bringing her a tray of fresh fruit. “It’s not rigged, I promise.” After they sat, he slid his arm across her shoulders. “You’re nervous.”
“That obvious?”
“I can feel you shaking.” He covered his mouth as he laughed.
“What’s funny?”
“I always thought you were indestructible.”
“Rock climbing and meeting parents are my weak points,” she admitted.
“You’ll be fine, babe. Daddy’s here.”
Nariah’s head snapped around when a scratchy voice repeated the words behind her. Russell looked just as perplexed as a well-dressed older man entered the room. He had Russell’s eyes and jawline, the rest of his features resembling Morgan’s, who was following close behind him, still enthralled by Carson.
“My oldest boy.”
“Uh, hey Dad.” Russell stepped into his father’s hug, eyeing Morgan in confusion. “You’re different, I mean, how are you?”
“Honestly son, I’ve acquired a new lease on life, but we’ll talk about that later. Tell me who this beautiful young lady is.”
“Dad, this is Nariah Alexander, Nariah, this is my dad, Scott Haines.”
“The pleasure is mine,” Scott assured, placing his lips on the back of her hand. “We have a little while until the others arrive. It also won’t be a while until dinner.” He instructed the chefs to prepare a light lunch. “I’m sure you must be famished.”
“We’re fine, Dad,” Russell insisted.
“Well, go show Nariah around the house, while I play with my grandson. Morgan, you should go with them.”
“Yes sir.” Morgan’s heels thumped on the light gray hand-scraped hardwood, leaving a clue to his path as he disappeared down a long hallway.
After the tour, they settled in the large game room, boasting three custom pool tables, several arcade games, air hockey, two 60-inch TVs, and a ten-person mahogany card table in the center. Russell graced Morgan and Nariah with a glass of wine before joining them on the couch. He punched Morgan in the shoulder. “Too close.”
“We were just talking. He’s nervous because I used to steal all the girls he liked.”
“Not this one,” Russell taunted, kissing Nariah’s cheek. After taking a sip from his glass he asked, “What’s wrong with Dad?”
“Straight to it, huh?”
“You know I don’t like to bullshit.”
“You want that short or long version?” Morgan asked. He nodded to Nariah, “How much does she know?”
“Enough, but just give me the need to know,” Russell answered.
Morgan downed his drink and refilled his glass, finishing that one in three huge gulps. He wiped his mouth with the back of his hand before patting his stomach. A large belch was the result. He remained quiet after a long sigh. Memories made his temples throb. He stared out the bay window, a smile lifting the corner of his mouth. “You know, we didn’t have that bad of a childhood. We were rich and we got to live here.” Burgundy droplets bounced off the liquid at the bottom of his glass as he poured.
“Is it that bad?” Russell asked. “I’ve never seen you drink like this.”
“I woulda stopped already if I had some Jack,” he held his glass at eye level, “then again, maybe not.” A third glass disappeared down his throat.
Russell snatched the bottle off the table, tucking it between him and the couch arm. “I’ll get you something stronger after you tell me what’s going on.” The move seemed to be too natural to be its first use for bribery.
With a huff, Morgan revealed, “Dad is bipolar. Bipolar II to be exact.”
Nariah was already searching Google for the specifics of the diagnosis. Reading aloud, she said, “It involves mild episodes of hypomania and severe episodes of depression.”
“I would have been more impressed if you knew that without having to look it up.” His words ran into one another, his eyes cloudy and drooping. “Give me some more wine. I’m parched.” Morgan cleared his throat.
“That makes sense,” Russell said more to himself than her. His eyes were on his feet as he recalled the memorable days of his and Morgan’s childhood. He jumped when Nariah touched his back, but didn’t move away. “He must not have taken his medication when you called.”
“Bingo.”
Despite having gotten used to his scars, feeling them, knowing why they were there still disgusted her. Scott’s diagnosis did nothing to change that. She wasn’t caressing them to soothe him, but instead to quell her anger. She was feeling their stories, his stories. The degree to which they raised off his skin denoted a particularly violent attack.
She wondered if Scott was wired, sensitive to every sensation his brain proceeded or if he was depressed, numb to the pain and anguish of those around him, pain of which he was the likely cause. Russell moved underneath his shirt, guiding her to another tale he hadn’t yet built up the courage to tell her. She cut her eyes away from Morgan as he looked in her direction. Did he bear the same map of their history on his skin?
“What made him seek diagnosis?” Russell asked.
“He and Mom got in a big argument. She threatened to leave him.”
“So, she knew?”
“She knew something was wrong,” Morgan admitted, “but you know how stubborn Dad can be. Don’t blame her.”
“Kind of hard not to.”
“She did the best she could.”
“If you mean standing by and doing nothing, then I agree.” Russell opened his mouth just enough to allow his words to slip between his teeth.
Nariah found it interesting how seamlessly and effortlessly the brothers traded roles. It told her that Russell was the primary receiver of their father’s torment; the curse of being the eldest sibling, the de facto protector. The scene also put emphasis on how little she knew about Russell and just how fast they reached this point in their lives.
Did he take time to process what happened?
Or did he block it out?
Is it the reason for ambition? His drive?
Can she help him heal? More importantly, will he be willing to let her?
She thought back to the night she accused him of trying to satisfy a fetish. She now understood why the accusation had the effect it did. She accused him of being like his father.
Russell grabbed her hand, acknowledging her telepathic apology. “How long has he been taking medicine?”
“A couple of months. As you can see, the drugs are working.”
“I need the doctor’s info as well as the names of everything he’s taking,” Russell demanded.
“You can ask him yourself. I wasn’t even supposed to tell you. He wanted to.”
“Well, this is gonna be an interesting dinner conversation,” Nariah joked, trying to lighten the mood.
“You’re damn right it is.” Morgan lugged himself to his feet, catching the couch before he fell to his back. He patted himself down before digging into all of his pockets. His keys hit Russell in the chest. “You’re driving.”
“Huh?”
“You promised me harder liquor. I told you what was up with Dad, now let’s go.”
Russell brushed off Morgan’s attempt to get him up. A loud pop echoed throughout the room before the sound of Morgan sucking air through his teeth.
“Dude, you know I have a bad shoulder.”
“You know you have a bad shoulder too.” Russell helped Nariah up and headed out the door, leaving Morgan crumpled in pain.
###
Later in the evening, Nariah met Stephanie, affectionately referred to as Stephy by Scott. The stress from having to bear her husband’s wrath and perhaps the guilt of not being able to protect herself showed themselves as deep lines etched about her face. Despite them, her smile was still pleasant.
“Very nice to meet you Nariah. It’s great that Russell has met a woman he feels good enough about to bring home.”
“You’ve never brought a girl home?” she questioned.
“Been waiting on you.” He grinned.
The conversation was as lively as the spices mixing with the elements in the air. Nariah couldn’t keep up with the stories being spewed about Russell, each family member cutting one another off. From what she gathered, by the passion in their voices and faces, they were all proud of the man he had become. As they all left to prepare for the feast, she and Russell settled at the table. “You’re blushing.”
“They’re never like this. I wouldn’t be surprised if all of them were high.”
One of the waitstaff announced a new arrival.
“Dddaadddyyy.”
Russell was barely able to get out of his seat before a small body collided with his. His smile took up his face, the only one rivaling it was when he was playing with Carson. He smothered the little boy with affection, their laughter mixing as Russell whisked him around.
Seth tapped Russell on the shoulder, eyes on Nariah. “Daddy?”
“Yes.”
“Who’s the pretty lady?”
Now Nariah was the one blushing. She couldn’t deny how much he looked like his father, even more so than the pictures she saw of him.
“Why don’t you introduce yourself and ask her,” Russell suggested. He set Seth on the ground, retaking his seat so he couldn’t hide behind his legs. “Don’t be shy now. Your mom told me how you talk to all the girls in your class.”
Seth waved, his chin tucked into his chest. “Hello.”
“What did I teach you?”
Seth raised his head and puffed his chest. This time his greeting had more confidence. “My name is Seth, what’s yours?”
“My name is Nariah.”
“What next?” Russell insisted.
Seth offered her his hand. He dropped his chin once again as she took it. “Nice to meet you.”
“Nice to meet you too. You’re a very handsome little boy, just like your daddy.”
“I think you’re pretty,” he said with a giggle, running behind Russell’s chair.
“Is that my big boy I hear,” Scott called.
“Papa!” Within an instance he was gone.
“No Mom?” Nariah asked.
“We’re still getting used to co-parenting. Maybe in the future.” Russell caressed her cheek before kissing her. “Thank you for being so understanding.”
“I love you.”
“I love you too. I know I mentioned wanting to introduce Carson and Seth on my own, but it only feels right that you do it with me.”
“Of course baby.” Nariah left to wake Carson from his nap. When she returned, Seth and Russell were tucked into a corner away from the rest of the family. She watched as Seth listened intently to Russell’s every word, subject to the same spell as his younger brother. He nodded, looking in her and Carson’s direction, his eyes lighting up.
“This is your little brother,” Russell said.
The two took some moments to examine one another, sure to be determining if the other was an enemy. “He’s so small. Was I that small Daddy?”
“You sure were. I could hold you with one hand.”
Seth used the corner of the blanket to wipe Carson’s nose, already proving to embrace the responsibility of being a big brother. The connection between the two was sealed as Carson wrapped his little fingers around Seth’s thumb.
Russell said, “He’s going to need you to show him how to be a big boy. And he’s going to need you to protect him.”
“I’ll never let anything bad happen to him. I promise. Your big brother’s here now C.C.”
Nariah wiped the tears that began to flow.
“Oh my goodness. I’ve got to have a picture of this,” Stephy announced.
Russell set Seth in his lap, Nariah resting Carson in his lap and showing him how to hold him before taking a seat next to Russell. A flash commemorated the event, while also assuring Nariah there were good things to come in the future.
###
Conversation flowed around the table, the various courses unable to keep up with the speed at which topics changed. Nariah helped Seth feed Carson, making funny faces that made him laugh, allowing Seth to sneak the spoon into his mouth.
“So Nariah,” Stephy asked, “how are you liking motherhood? You seem to have adjusted easily.”
“I’m glad you think so, because it has been quite the adjustment. Honestly, I didn’t think I would be a good mother.”
“Why is that, it seems so natural for you?”
“I didn’t know if I wanted kids. And I was scared.”
“Well, you’re doing a great job,” Stephy complimented.
“I agree,” Russell added.
“To family and our newest additions,” Scott raised his glass, “who will receive nothing but the best life has to offer.” They all sipped from their glasses at the same time.
Nariah could see something brewing within Scott’s spirit. The shift in his mood was subtle, so much so that the other people at the table were oblivious. Despite not having dealt with someone who suffered from his disease, she felt justified in acting if he began to get out of line, if not for the mere fact of protecting her son.
Scott wiped his mouth and leaned back in his chair, observing the rest of his family. His face showed no malice, nor did it show joy. His body was tense as if he was fighting to keep whatever was trying to spill out contained. No longer able to hold it in, he said, “Nariah, would you mind putting the boys to bed.”
She took Seth by the hand, cradling Carson in her free arm.
His mood swallowed everyone else’s by the time she retook her seat. His presence commanded respect and undivided attention. He transformed into the man that built a billion-dollar empire, one that would provide a life without want for generations after him. Only his eyes moved. The back of his chair was without the warmth of his body. “Now that I have you here—”referring to Morgan and Russell—“there are some things you need to hear from me.”
“You don’t have to do—”
“I do and I will say them, whether you are ready to hear them or not, whether you want to hear them or not.”
Morgan jogged down the hallway, a fresh bottle of Jack Daniels hanging at his side. “I can’t be the only one that needs a drink.”
“I’ll take one,” Russell said.
Soon everyone had a half-filled glass sitting in front of them. Russell forewent trying to convince Scott not to mix alcohol with his medication. He was strapped in for the ride.
“As you all know, I’m not one to beat around the bush. I treated you like shit when you were growing up.” Scott tossed his drink back. “Now that I have a clear head, I can see that. I won’t make mistakes for it. I was weak. I let my disease control me.”
“Come on Dad,” Russell interrupted. “You didn’t know.”
“But I did know. Your grandfather, my father, was bipolar.”
Nariah spotted the shock in Russell’s face out of the corner of her eye. She grabbed his hand, his flesh cold.
“What?” Morgan belched. He was too under the influence to be shocked, his reaction more along the lines of curiosity versus anger.
“What!” The degree of the redness in Russell’s skin correlated directly with how loud his voice was. “And you didn’t get treatment?”
“I thought I could control it,” Scott said.
“You didn’t think differently after the first time.”
The first time.
The fact that he didn’t have to recall the events that took place in the memory showed how fresh and significant the attack was. Nariah traced the outlines of his scars, able to see them through his white dress shirt.
“Or the second time. Or the third time. Or the—”
Scott held up his hand. “I won’t make excuses for why I didn’t. I’d be speculating myself if I offered any. Perhaps I was dying from my struggle with alcoholism as well. All I can do is apologize and though it may be late, I’m under the supervision of one of the best doctors in the country, in addition to a highly touted psychiatrist.”
“What’s the psychiatrist’s name?” Russell questioned.
“I’m a grown man. I don’t need you checking up on me.”
“You were a grown man when—never mind.”
“I know it’s going to be hard, son, but you’re going to have to trust me. I know I have to earn that, as well as your respect. I’m willing to do what I have to for as long as I have to, to repair what I’ve broken. Understand I wouldn’t allow myself to be around my grandchildren if I felt I didn’t have this under control.”
His point had merit. It was also one Russell hadn’t considered as he glanced down the long hallway. He relaxed into his seat, taking a sip from his glass. He gestured for Scott to continue.
“I will show you things are different, that I’m different. I have forgiven myself for the physical pain I caused you, Morgan, and your mother. You have all managed to heal from your physical wounds.”
Nariah winced. She swallowed the bile in her throat, the bitter alcohol causing to appear once more.
“I haven’t been able to forgive myself for the emotional scars I’m sure you all still carry. Therapy has helped me to realize that what you have for me, your loyalty, is given out of fear. Russell—”he didn’t blink as he stared into his eldest son’s eyes—“thank you for protecting your mother and brother.”
“You don’t have to thank—”
I do,” Scott insisted. “You took the majority of my wretchedness. I also owe you a personal apology. I apologize if in any way you are like me.” His gaze found Nariah. “I gave you everything I had for better and worse. I have molded you into an excellent businessman, but I can’t say that with confidence regarding your personal life.”
“He’s a great man and a great father, to both his kids,” Nariah interrupted. She kept her face straight despite Russell squeezing her thigh, afterward entangling his fingers with hers. “If no one minds me saying, Scott, I think it’s brave of you to be doing this. I’d be lying if I said I didn’t have an image of you in my head before I met you after what Russell has told me. But now I have no doubts about the man you are. I know that what you couldn’t do and be for Morgan and Russell, you’ll do for Seth and Carson.”
Several moments passed before Scott reacted. A smile broke across his face, reaching his eyes. “That means the world to me Nariah. Thank you.”
Russell pressed his lips to her temple, whispering how much he loved her into her ear as he hugged her.
“Now, I’d like to hear from you boys,” Scott announced. “I’m sure there are things you’ve been wanting to tell me for quite some time.”
“You already know how I feel Dad,” Morgan slurred. “I love you. I’m still in the process of forgiving you, but I’m happy we’re taking steps to repairing our relationship.”
All eyes fell to Russell, who remained quiet, spinning his glass on the table. He looked up for a second, looking down once more. He downed the rest of his drink in one gulp. His eyes closed, he tapped a beat on the table.
Nariah caressed the back of his hand with her thumb, hoping to feel what he was feeling, though she’d much rather know what he was thinking.
He opened his eyes. “Thank you for your apology, Dad. As Nariah said, I’m nothing like you. I made a conscious effort to distance myself from that part of myself. After today, I won’t be drinking anything other than wine. And I’ll limit myself to a couple of glasses of that.” He went on to describe the lessons he learned as a result of his childhood, specifically how not to treat the people one claims to love. He chronicled his struggles to trust anyone, women in particular to his perceived view of Stephy’s lack of action. This was the main reason for his failed relationships.
“I’m proud of you son,” Scott said.
“Everything I went through made me a stronger man, so I have to thank you for that,” Russell said. “I wouldn’t be who I am today if it wasn’t for you.” He slid his chair back, directing his attention to Nariah after he stood. “I see now that everything in my life prepared me for you.”
There was a clear shift in the room’s atmosphere, everyone breathing a bit easier, their shoulders dropping a bit. Stephy’s mouth was cocked into a grin, the only one recognizing what was happening.
“I’ve waited my whole life for you,” Russell continued. “I would be remiss if I said I didn’t lose faith at some points. I have the reputation of being a bachelor and that very well may be true, but each relationship brought me closer to you. I love you more than I ever thought possible. I’ve disappointed and failed you more than is acceptable, but each time you’ve found it in your heart to forgive me.” He dropped to one knee.
“What are you doing,” Nariah whispered.
“You wouldn’t let me do it in your basement and I don’t want to wait any longer. I don’t have a ring, but we can go shopping for one tomorrow if you want.”
Nariah’s head spun, the blood rushing to her brain. She didn’t know what to think, not that she could think at all. She held onto his hand in an effort to hold on to reality. Heart in her throat, she focused on Russell’s nostrils, which flared each time he inhaled, mirroring the movement.
“You stood by my side in spite of everything I put you through and the only way I know how to show my appreciation is by standing by yours, for the rest of my life. Will you marry me? Please.”
She remained silent. The feeling left her fingers, the numbness traveling up her arm before overtaking the rest of her body. Tears streaming down her face, she nodded.
“Yes,” Russell encouraged.
“Yes.”
He swept her into his arms, twirling her around. Cupping her face in his hands, he confessed his love once more before kissing her.
“Here, here,” Scott said standing, holding his glass in the air.
“You finally decided to listen to me.” Morgan and Russell exchanged a handshake and a hug. “Congratulations, bro. She’s pretty perfect. Don’t screw this up.” He hugged Nariah. “Welcome to the family, sis. If you ever need a babysitter, I’m only a phone call away.”
“And 3,000 miles.” Nariah laughed.
“Actually, I’ve been thinking about moving to the East Coast.”
“Is that right?” Russell asked.
“Now that Dad’s doing alright, I’m not needed around here anymore.” Morgan answered the question on Russell’s lips. “Mom’s fine with it.” He poured the rest of his drink down the nearby sink.
“I’ve literally never seen him do that,” Russell said to Nariah.
“Since you’re not drinking anymore, neither will I. I still wanna be just like you bro.”
The hug the men shared solidified the strengthening of their bond, also ushering in a new chapter in their lives.
Stephy, who had sneaked off, gathered everyone back around the large dining table, holding something behind her back. Nariah could tell she still hadn’t gotten used to her newfound independence, habit causing her to glance at Scott for permission to speak. She cleared her throat, reminding herself that she no longer needed it. She locked eyes with Nariah, her smile giving her extra courage. She set a small red box on the table in front of her.
Scott’s eyes widened with recognition.
“I never thought this day would come,” Stephy started. “I wasn’t able to protect you boys the way a mother is supposed to and I’ve just now come to terms with that fact. I’ve always thought neither one of you brought a woman home because you were embarrassed of me. It means the world that you brought Nariah here.” She let her tears fall, beckoning her oldest son to her. “I’ve been saving this just for this occasion.”
With her urging, Russell opened the box to reveal a modest vintage style ring, a deep blue sapphire stone sparkling in his pupils.
“Your father gave me this when he proposed. It’s also the ring Grandpa proposed to Grandma with.” Stephy held his face. “I’m so proud of you. You’ve exceeded everything I ever wanted you to be.”
“Thank you, Mom. Now I can do it the right way.” Once again, Russell dropped to his knee in front of Nariah. “Third time’s the charm.” He chuckled. “Nariah Alexander, will you do me the honor of being my wife?”
“Yes.” Nariah held her arm to keep it from shaking as Russell slipped the ring on. “It’s beautiful. Thank you so much, Stephy.” The women exchanged a loving embrace, one that offered strength and healing.
“Call me Mom.”
“And call me Dad,” Scott added.
“What are you gonna give me when I’m ready to get married,” Morgan joked.
“You’ll find out when that happens.” Stephy laughed. “If it ever happens.”
Nariah and Russell found themselves snuggled up on the couch, marveling in the beauty of her ring. She laid her head on his chest, finding comfort in the thump of his heart on her eardrum. There was safety in his touch, surety in his presence. She knew she wouldn’t have to go through anything alone again. “What are you thinking about?”
“You. The future.”
“What about it?” she asked.
“I don’t want to wait to marry you. I’ve waited for you long enough.”
“What? You wanna get married tomorrow?” Nariah looked up, seeing the underside of his chin.
He shifted underneath her. “If you’re up for it.”
Nariah was quiet for a moment as she observed her environment. Outside, there was an endless field of grass, the cherry blossom trees creating a breathtaking environment. She imagined it dressed up and filled with people. A night wedding spoke to her. “What about my family?”
“Private jet.”
“What about my dress and your suit?”
“I’ll marry you naked if you wanted.” Russell chuckled. “I lied, maybe in a towel.”
“Can we make it a couple of weeks? I know you can get a wedding planner and all that, but I’m sure my mom will want to help. What about your bachelor party?”
“Don’t need one. But I’m sure Jacoby, our dads, and Morgan can come up with something fun.”
His stubble scratched against her skin, a sensation she had come to love, inspiring a twitch between her legs. After telling him so, she casually returned the conversation to the wedding, using her hand to build the heat. She laughed as he struggled to answer her questions.
“We can have the wedding after we get back from our honeymoon.”
“Nope,” Nariah denied. “And you can’t have none until then.”
“When does the two weeks start?” Russell asked.
“Tonight.” She made sure no one was watching as she slipped her hand into his pants. He grew instantly upon feeling her touch. Stroking him to full length, she soiled her panties as he slipped a finger inside her. They struggled to maintain a natural position as pleasure twisted their bodies. She came twice before bringing him to climax. After cleaning themselves with a blanket, she stood. Russell stood as well, ready to take her to one of the many bedrooms. Spotting his eagerness, she shut him down, saying, “That’s all you get pal.”
“You can’t be serious.”
“I’m not playin’. We’re sleeping in separate beds until I become Mrs. Haines.”
“You’re lucky I love you,” Russell said.
Nariah left him standing in his spot as she left to ask Stephy about the accommodations, her devilish wink lingering behind her. “Love you too.”
###
The two weeks whizzed by. Nariah and Tyra were at the wedding dress shop doing a final fitting for their dresses. Nariah ran her hands down her torso, continuing on to her train, reaching as far as she could. She avoided looking in the mirror for fear that what she was experiencing and feeling wasn’t real. It was all too good to be true; even with the mishaps in her relationship. She couldn’t wait to see Carson and Seth. She might have been more excited to see them than Russell.
The dress was a cream-colored halter top, her shoulders strong and toned. Her skin popped against the cream intricately sewn patterns, the hints of black interwoven within, bringing out her dark eyes and hair. She turned round and round in the dressing room, soaking in the rare display of femininity.
“Hurry up in there before I die,” Tyra complained.
“How much champagne have you had?”
“I’m a little tipsy,” Tyra admitted, “but not enough to make time slow down. Now come on.”
Despite her mom already seeing her in the dress, this time was different. Nariah was nervous. It had been a long time since she allowed her mother to see her in such a way; vulnerable, open. Since she was a teen, she and Tyra butt heads about the roles and limitations of being a woman. After their talk, she realized that being a woman isn’t a one-size-fits-all type of thing. Being a woman is subjective, defined according to the person.
“Ugh, come on Nariah. I can see the bottom of the bottle.”
Nariah ignored her, looking at the woman in the mirror. Tears blurred the outskirts of her vision and slowly traveled inward. She used the tissue stuffed in her bra to wipe them, laughing at herself. She listened. There was nothing. She closed her eyes and concentrated harder.
You look beautiful.
You deserve this.
You’re strong, smart, and worthy.
It was funny how quickly things could change. A little less than a year ago, she suffered from low self-esteem, her belief in love at an all-time low. Now, she couldn’t imagine herself without it, wondering how she survived so long without it. As she reflected, she realized like Russell, everything she had been through was preparing her for the moment. She held her waist, no longer ashamed of her stretch marks. Looking into her eyes, she liked what she saw. She was proud of the woman standing before her.
“Nariah,” Tyra called.
“Here I come. Jeez lady.”
“About time,” Tyra shot back. She sputtered on her drink as Nariah stepped into the light. “Oh my God.” She set her glass down and covered her mouth with both hands.
“That bad?” Nariah spun in a circle.
“Is that the same dress?” Tyra walked a circle around her, readjusting the fabric as she went. “It fits so good. You look amazing, baby girl.” Their eyes connected, recognizing the significance of the nickname. Tyra hadn’t called her it since she was a little girl. “You better not cry.”
The threat was short lived as Nariah enclosed her arms around her mother’s shoulders. “Thank you so much, Mommy.”
“It’s my job, sweetheart,” she pulled away, “and judging by the way you look, I did a great job.” She used the back of her hand to dab the moisture away from Nariah’s cheeks. “Every man in attendance is going to fall over.”
“The only men I care about are my boys.”
“I felt the same way,” Tyra admitted. “They’re all that matters, except for me, your dad, and Jacoby.”
“Of course.” Nariah observed them in the mirror, hugging Tyra’s arms after they wrapped around her shoulders.
Tyra held her tighter, placing a kiss on Nariah’s temple. “You really deserve this. You deserve everything, Russell, Carson, Seth. You deserve to be happy.” Both of their eyes closed as they released their breaths. “Are you ready?” she asked, stepping off the platform. After refilling her glass, she handed one to Nariah.
“I’m a little scared.” Nariah was too busy turning to the left and right, drinking herself in. Convinced her newfound confidence wasn’t just an illusion and that she wasn’t in fact dreaming, she stepped off the platform, Tyra helping her unzip.
“Rightly so, but trust me when I say this is the best decision you’ll ever make.”
Nariah believed her. There wasn’t a doubt in her mind. Because of the speed of everything and her and Russell’s sleeping arrangement, she saw very little of him in the past two weeks. It was good for building her anticipation, also helping her to realize how much she craved his presence. It would all be worth it in 24 hours.
The next morning was a frenzy. There was so much to do; hair, makeup, getting dressed, and the like. Stephy and Tyra were in charge as they worked in tandem to make everything run in a smooth method. The two women got along immediately, their personalities contradictory, yet complementary. Tyra barked orders at the set-up crew, while Stephy explained her vision to the makeup artist. What they couldn’t handle, Olivia took care of.
Nariah had received a full beauty treatment, complete with a full body massage, manicure and pedicure, and a facial. She was conversing with the bubbly makeup artist when small raps on the door caught their attention. Love filled her as Tyra led Seth into the room, a hand covering his eyes.
“N-Nariah.”
“You look so handsome Seth,” she said, complimenting his sharp black suit and fresh haircut.
He uncovered his eyes, his smile wide. He hurriedly snapped his hand back into place. “Can I look?”
“Sure sweetheart.”
Seth peeked between two fingers before peeling them away one at a time. His mouth dropped open as he laid eyes on her lightly made up face, wearing just enough to highlight her features. “You’re even more pretty,” he said, hiding his grin in his shoulder.
“Did Dad send you in here to spy?”
“No,” Seth denied, nodding his head.
“You can stay in here with us until it’s time for me to get dressed.”
“Okay,” he exclaimed. Inheriting his father’s calm, he sat on the couch, his heading following each person that passed in front of him.
Ten minutes later, there was another knock on the door. Nariah listened as her mother turned away the familiar deep silky voice. A storm swirled inside of her, a mixture of anxiety, excitement, and wanting to get it over with. She winked at Seth, who was trying to see through the sea of people. He hid behind the couch as Tyra told Russell he wasn’t allowed in the room, peeking over the top after the door closed.
“What’s wrong?” Nariah asked, noticing the somber look on her mother’s face.
She was silent for a few seconds. Suddenly, her mouth curled into a smile. “He looks as good as you. His suit—”Tyra fanned herself—“if I wasn’t married to your dad.”
“I’m telling,” Nariah teased.
“He’ll never believe you.”
The sun was just beginning to set when it was time to get dressed. Once again, Nariah found herself in front of a mirror. She smiled at herself as she smoothed the fabric down.
I am beautiful.
A final pirouette and she was ready. She winked.
I love you.
Olivia didn’t bother knocking before she opened the door, all smiles as she laid eyes on her best friend. They exchanged an embrace only friends of 20+ years were familiar with, not letting one another go until Nariah felt something wet on her skin.
“Don’t you dare.”
“Whatever,” Olivia sniped. “This won’t be the only time I cry today.”
“What are you crying for ‘Liv, this is supposed to be a happy time.”
“You’ve been through so much. No one deserves happiness more than you, Nariah. I’ve seen you through your worst times and you never once complained.” Olivia presented her with a rectangular silver box. “I had this made a while ago.” She flipped the top. “I figured you wouldn’t be up for matching tattoos.”
“Damn right,” Nariah agreed. She held her wrist out, so Olivia could clasp the custom-made bracelet around it. The half of a broken heart had their nicknames—RiRi and ‘Liv—along with the year they met engraved on the back, the word ‘best’ on the front.
“Mine says ‘friends.’ Put them together and—”
“I love it,” Nariah interrupted, wrapping her arms around Olivia’s neck.
“Can’t breathe, sis.”
Nariah held her hands after letting her go, sincerity in her eyes as she stared into Olivia’s. “Don’t know what I’d do without you.”
“I know.”
“I love you, asshole,” Nariah scoffed.
“Love you too hardhead.” With that, Olivia left, fighting off questions about how the bride looked.
A collective gasp sucked the air out of the room as Nariah stepped out. Mouths agape, a lack of sound and movement, and nonstop tears all told her she looked the part. Each person in the room took the opportunity to tell her how incredible she looked, hugging her carefully. She tapped an empty glass, standing in the middle of the circle they formed.
“I just want to thank you for helping out. Every person in this room has helped make me feel more special than I’ve ever felt. I won’t get into my past, but it’s been a long time coming. I look forward to starting the new chapter with you. Thank you so much.”
After a short round of applause, the activities resumed at double the previous speed, only a few minutes before the wedding was due to start.
Nariah met Maxwell and Jacoby at the panorama doors leading to the backyard. They both held out their arms, Jacoby stone-faced, Maxwell’s lips and eyes twitching as he did his best to contain his emotions. No words were exchanged between the trio. The care with which both men held her hands demonstrated their love for her. The strength with which she gripped their arms symbolized the trust and love she had for them. With a single nod, she signaled her readiness.
String lights and strategically placed lanterns helped the pale moon and distant stars bring light to the area. Nature provided the song, matching the rhythm of Nariah’s heartbeat. She and Russell decided to limit the festivities to their immediate families and close friends, a total of a dozen people. Other than Tyra and Carson, all of them disappeared as she spotted her man, seeming to float her way to him.
Maxwell and Jacoby kissed each of her cheeks before shaking Russell’s hand.
The officiant’s voice faded as did the rest of the sounds around her. Her gaze was affixed to Russell’s lips, reading his admission of his love.
“Nariah, please repeat after me.”
Swallowing the fear sticking to her tongue, she stuttered through the vows. “Do ya’ll not see how fine he is? Don’t judge me.”
Russell’s eyes didn’t leave hers as he recited his vows. His grin gleamed as Seth presented him with the rings. Nariah halved her size so Seth’s lips could reach her jaw. He and Nariah continued holding hands after placing the rings on one another’s fingers.
“By the power vested in me, I now pronounce you man and wife.. You may kiss your bride.”
The crowd’s thunderous applause engulfed all other sounds, but did nothing to disrupt the passionate kiss. Russell placed his lips next to Nariah’s ear, its heat causing her to shiver. “The two weeks is officially over.”
“Just like a man, always thinking about sex.”
“Do you not see how fine you are,” Russell snickered. “Don’t judge me.”
The new couple was showered with cheers and rice as they walked down the aisle.
In the car, Russell attacked Nariah with an animalistic hunger, only stopping after she placed a hand on his chest. “What?” he asked, chest heaving. He made sure the privacy glass was up.
Nariah smiled as she took in his features, tracing them with her fingertips, committing every dip, wrinkle, and pore to her memory. It was real. He was real. Their life had been a whirlwind for the past year. She placed a light kiss on his lips. “We don’t have to rush anymore.”
Russell nodded in understanding. Taking his rightful place next to her, he pulled her into his chest, resting his chin on the top of her head. “We have the rest of our lives.”
Epilogue
Two years later
Childish giggles filled the air, hiccups infiltrating attempts to take in exhaustion as the boys ran from their father. Another baby boy, Sebastian, joined the family a year earlier, fulfilling Russell’s wish for more children. Nariah watched absentmindedly as she chopped vegetables and seasoned the meat in preparation for the grill.
Morgan jogged down the stairs, greeting her with a warm embrace. “Ready yet, sis?”
“Just finished,” Nariah said, handing him a tray, following him outside.
“Uncle Morgan!” the two oldest boys cheered. They held their hands high after he asked who wanted to help him barbeque.
Russell made a beeline for Nariah, slithering his arms around her waist.
“What’s that smile for?” she questioned.
“Because my wife is the most gorgeous woman in the world.” He kissed her forehead and nose before placing a deep kiss on her lips.
“Say more.”
“I’ll show you later.” Russell chuckled with a slap to her butt. “Looking good, love.”
Nariah offered a devious wink as she increased the switch in her hips. “I know.”
The sound of the sliding doors drew everyone’s attention to the four bodies walking out of the house. The boys’ bodies thudded against Scott’s sturdy frame. They were calm as they hugged Stephy’s waist.
“Come on, Grandpa,” Seth said, leading Scott in the direction of the thick cloud of smoke, “Uncle Morgan is teaching me and Carson how to use the grill.”
“Where’s my littlest grandson?” Stephy asked.
“He should be just waking up. You can take him if you want.” Nariah’s heart cracked open as Stephy’s eyes lit up.
As soon as she disappeared, Maxwell’s booming voice ruptured through the door. “I smell something burning.”
“Must be the neighbors,” Morgan shouted back.
Both of the Alexander men offered abbreviated greetings, anxious to observe and critique Morgan’s technique. Stephy arrived with Sebastian, the women fawning over him.
“So how are you and Scott adjusting to New York?” Tyra asked.
“I miss the California weather,” Stephy admitted, “but I’m loving it. Mostly because I’m close to my family.”
The past two years contained healing and the restrengthening of fractured bonds, while also lending themselves to creations of new ones. Surrounded by the people she loved most, Nariah felt complete. She had everything she could ever ask for, everything she ever wanted. Love surrounded her on all sides.
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