Miss me?
KateyBee42, clockwork'sFinest, ladyrere1985, QuestionyTheQuestionMark, SuadamPanyuthapum, jazzyhue20, Guest(1), Guest(2), Katie, taydo-the-potato, kingofmonsters1, Firegirl19, LovinHueyFreeman, and Guest(3).
PROPER THANK YOU'S COMING SOON!
I can only apologize so many times... but I'm still sorry for the wait :x
I've thought about this chapter for so long and have wanted it to be damn near perfect, which would explain the slow/non-existent start, a million edits, and hella writer's block during every flippin' scene.
But we's made it. Wedding time with this extra special chapter just for you. Extra long to make up for all the lost time (longest chapter this series, and second longest chapter I've ever published). Have to admit my spellcheck was having some annoying glitches and I'm super exhausted and have given this thing a very speedy proofing just because I've been eager to get this out, so fair warning. Also my cat just ran across my laptop twice so if you see any random string of letters/numbers that I missed, please forgive his badass XD Be kind and enjoy my loves.
Btw please see the author's note at the end for an important announcement.
Relax, I'm not cancelling any of my stories haha ;)
Disclaimer: I do not own any part of Aaron McGruder's The Boondocks or any of his characters.
"See, boys? See why I tell you marriage is bad?"
"I don't care what nobody say. I ain't NEVER gettin' married!"
~Robert Freeman (AKA Granddad) and Riley Freeman; Tom, Sarah and Usher
Week 21
Saturday, November 3rd
"Can you pass me that other mascara?"
"Almost done, let me just comb this out and spray it."
"Ooh, could you hold that pose for a second? That's a really cute shot."
"...Girl, if you don't smile."
"It's a candid though. It's supposed to be natural."
"Then smile natural!"
"I'm going to fight you natural, how bout dat?"
How did this day arrive so fast?
She laughed along with the others, leaning out of the way as a beauty blender was tossed at Lorena sitting in her parlor chair. The salon girls chuckled as well while they continued to work, already seeming accustomed to the antics of the group after the past few hours. They had been there since early in the morning, still in their bridesmaid robes as they had their nails manicured, hair laid, and makeup set, all while getting their pictures taken by one of the floating photographers.
"How do you like your hair, hun?" The hair stylist, Jaye, asked her, giving a final mist of hairspray.
"It's gorgeous, thank you." She told her sincerely, admiring the elegant and natural up-do in her reflection.
"I love it." Lorena added, possibly to herself as she gave her long locks a flip in the mirror. She closed her eyes as her stylist began spritzing her face with setting spray.
"I can't believe today is here already." Anthia mumbled in between her lipstick application, echoing her thoughts as she shared a glance with her.
"You read my mind." She replied, right before taking a quick intake of breath.
"You okay?"
"Baby kicks." She smiled, rubbing her hands on her large and active stomach, still in disbelief to how much it grew.
"They're probably gonna be kicking all day." Jaye grinned.
"Oh, I have no doubt."
"Ready to get your face done yet?" Li, one of the makeup artists, spoke while heading over with her bag. "...No? Still?" She asked in confusion at the immediate shake of the head.
"Not yet."
"We don't want to run out of time though and have you all rushing-"
"You have to do my makeup last." She interrupted her gently, still shaking her head.
Li glanced at Jaye who shrugged in return. "The bride is almost finished though. We try to wrap up everyone around the same time so there's additional time for photos."
Jazmine blinked at her, managing to hold back her sigh. "I'm telling you. This is the only way we're going to get out of here on time. Cindy has to be done first. Otherwise I'm going to look at her when she is finished, cry all of my makeup off, make her cry because she's emotional and ruin her makeup, and we'll all be here for another hour to fix everything."
Cindy, who had her own eyes closed as her makeup was being put on, simply lifted a finger and pointed over towards Jazmine.
"She's not wrong."
"No need to worry, I'm almost done here, Li. You can start on her in about five minutes." Cindy's stylist said over her shoulder.
"I won't take too long anyway." Jazmine added. "I only want the bare minimum of eye makeup."
"For obvious reasons." Lorena cracked as Li nodded and walked away.
"Look, I have your cousin to thank for making me an emotional wreck today." Jazmine grinned.
"I think we both have the kids to thank for that." Cindy spoke up again, her eyes still closed while her hands traced circles across her stomach.
Jazmine smiled, leaning comfortably in her chair while she admired Cindy. She was absolutely glowing today, even before her makeup was added. From the minute they all woke up after spending the night together at Anthia's house, Cindy had such a presence about her. She didn't appear anxious, nervous, or the least bit emotional (at least not yet). Just... radiant. Seamlessly happy, yet peaceful at the same time.
"Have you heard from my soon-to-be cuzzo yet?" Lorena asked, spinning towards Cindy now that she was finished.
"Not since we texted this morning."
"That probably means they're actually getting ready and staying on schedule." Anthia spoke up as she stood from her chair and headed over.
"I have no doubt that Huey is keeping them on task." Jazmine chuckled.
"Cracking the whip as usual." Cindy smirked, her eyes closed while her stylist fanned her face after applying the makeup spray.
"Alright lovely, you are done." She told her, removing the smock that covered up her white satin robe. Jazmine held her breath as Cindy turned to look at her friends.
DON'T CRY.
"Daaaammnn mama, you look GORGEOUS!" Lorena exclaimed at once.
Hold it back.
"You look stunning Cindy, oh my gosh." Anthia added, her voice in awe.
You got this.
Jazmine took in a deep inhale before she managed to speak.
"You're beautiful." She told her softly, knowing that the fewer words she uttered, the better. And she felt it. She was on the cusp of course, and if she stared at Cindy too much longer it probably would cause the tears to overflow, but Jazmine was actually handling it! As long as she kept concentrating on her deep breathing and kept her thoughts light, she could get her makeup done and be good-
"Not just yet!" Another stylist spoke up as she hurried over, concealing something behind her back. "Not without the finishing touch." She grinned, pulling it around to reveal to the girls.
The bridal veil.
"Yes, yes, yes, put it on!" Lorena and Anthia cheered excitedly.
No, no, no.
Cindy beamed and nodded as she turned more to her stylist so she could place it in her hair.
Look away before it's too late! Jazmine's thoughts screamed at her, but her eyes refused to cooperate, already getting wider and feeling heavier in anticipation.
"Now you are ready." The hair stylist smiled warmly, staring at Cindy after she securely fastened it to her hair and took a step back. Cindy turned towards the mirror along with the girls as they took in her final look.
Dammit.
Cindy's hands flew up to cover her mouth as her stared at her reflection, Lorena let out a high-pitched squeal, Anthia was gaping as she fumbled with her phone to take quick pictures, and Jazmine fanned at her eyes to no avail, as the tears were already rolling down her cheeks with no chance of stopping anytime soon.
But at least in her defense, everyone else was already crying too.
The sound of heavy bass vibrated through the air and along the ground as they all stood on the sidewalk.
"What in the hell?"
"What... is that?"
"Five bucks says it's our chariot."
They all turned towards the direction it was coming from, louder and louder as it finally appeared at the corner.
"Called it, somebody pay me."
"Only the best for my nigga, you feel me?!" Ed yelled, waving the giant white Hummer limo over. They all grinned and chuckled at that (well, all but one) before they approached the vehicle and began piling inside.
He glanced around, taking in the interior of the massive limo. He'd been in some, a handful of times actually, and this one was no exception. Ed had clearly spared no expense.
"So what's the plan?" His right-hand man asked, leaning comfortably back in his seat. "Are the girls already there?"
"Boy, those women have been gone getting ready!" The oldest member of the party spoke up boisterously. "They've got to get the dresses, do their hair, their nails, their faces, and a hell of a lot more than we can think of. All we gotta do is show up dressed."
"How would we be expected to know that?"
"Common sense?" The friend sitting across from him countered with a raised eyebrow.
"We don't normally attend weddings, we just crash or rob them, feel me?" Ed shrugged alongside Rummy.
"...Well then." The brief silence was broken by the friend on his left, grinning as he played with the earbuds looped around his neck.
He snickered as he turned towards him, but his eyes fixated on the bar along the wall of the limo. Now seemed as good a time as any.
"Aye, pass over some of those glasses for me, Hiro." He asked, gesturing to the space beside him.
"Now you're talkin'." Ed said, his eyes lighting up with interest.
"Seriously?" Huey griped, not having time to reject the tumbler glass that was shoved into his hand.
"Relax, we're just doing a toast." He waved him off, reaching around Hiro to grab the bottle of Scotch.
"Yeah, relax boy." Granddad snipped, readily holding out his glass for liquor to be poured into it.
"You don't even like whiskey, Granddad."
"So what? It's a man's drink. And we're about to toast to this boy finally about to become a man."
He grinned, tapping his own glass after he finally poured everyone a round. "Aiight aiight. I'm gonna start this off. Call it the unedited version of the toast I'm gonna give later."
"Here we go." Huey said with the shake of his head.
"Tell us how you really feel." Hiro grinned.
"Well first of all... we all clean up nice as fuck, hot damn. Especially me." Caesar smirked playfully.
"Boooo." Riley jeered him right away.
"I'm about to come for you, don't worry." Caesar replied, gesturing his glass towards him. "I mean, can anyone else believe that we're here right now? Gathering to a wedding for this nigga? This nigga though?"
"NOPE."
"Damn, y'all really have to answer all at once like that?" Riley asked, almost indignantly.
"I mean I've seen you with a whooolle lotta chicks man." Caesar continued.
"Facts."
"Some decent, some more like 'what the fuck were you thinking.'"
"BIG facts."
"Shut the hell up." Riley shoved Hiro, nearly making him spill his drink as he laughed.
"My point is that one, I would've never expected you to actually settle your wild ass down in any capacity. And two, which I'm sure we all can agree on..." He paused to make eye contact with everyone. "I would've never ever thought you'd be lucky enough to have a match like Cindy."
"Word." Rummy nodded. "Like they were fuckin' made for each other."
"She's definitely made for me." Riley replied, seeming like he was more-so talking to himself. "I know I'm lucky. I probably don't even deserve her for real."
"Naw fam."
"Probably not."
"Unworthy."
"Heeellll no."
"Also facts."
"You're definitely marrying up."
Riley opened his mouth to respond, but closed it in the next second as he turned to the last person who spoke. Huey stared straight ahead while avoiding eye contact, clearly realizing he had fucked up.
"Sooo while that was a cheap insult at me, that was such a dope compliment to Cindy, bruh."
"Nope, unintended." He quickly shook his head.
"That's not what I heard." Hiro grinned.
"I can't wait to tell my fiancée about it when I see her."
"Please don't."
"Would you rather me call her your sister?"
"In-LAW."
"Damn Huey, you're gonna have to help me out when I'm doing my speech in front of everyone, you're being so nice." Caesar smirked, promptly receiving a death stare in return.
"Just wrap this up."
Caesar chuckled, gesturing for them to raise their drinks along with him. "In conclusion since I'm being rushed... I just want to say congrats, man. On finding your obvious better half, about to be starting a family together, and diving into the next chapter of your lives. You both will only go up from here. Cheers."
Everyone followed suit behind Caesar, lifting their glasses to their lips to toast to Riley... all except one.
"...Statistically speaking most marriages are bound to fail." His brother muttered into his glass before tossing it back.
"Just because you say something mean now, doesn't take back the nice things you said before, Huey!"
26 minutes.
He had watched him pace on and off around the room for the past twenty-six minutes. Everything was in order; the groomsmen (and Granddad) had already had some of their group pictures taken by the photographer, the ceremony area was set and ready, and guests were just starting to arrive. For once things seemed to be going just as they should and they were right on schedule.
Yet here he was still pacing.
With a sigh, he glanced at his watch. Granddad had headed out of the dressing room to chat with a few family members. Hiro had gone to the reception hall to finalize some last minute things for his playlist. Caesar was wandering somewhere probably. And there was about 35 minutes until they had to start making their way downstairs.
He supposed he had time to give some brotherly advice.
Huey clapped him hard on the shoulder just as he started to make his umpteenth lap around the room while passing him. He about jumped out of his skin in alarm.
"What?!" Riley exclaimed at once, obviously startled. "Why'd you grab me like that?"
"Why have you been pacing around the room nonstop?" Huey countered.
"I haven't been-"
"I've been watching you do it for the past half-hour."
"No homo."
"Are you alright?" Huey ignored his nonsense as usual, meticulously observing his body language instead.
"Mannn, would you relax?" Riley gave a half-hearted scoff as he crossed his arms, the opposite of relaxed. "I'm fine." He stressed, shifting his weight from one foot to the other. "I'm just gettin' the last minute energy out, that's all." He shrugged, now sliding his hands into his pockets as he glanced around. "But yeah, I'm... I'm uh..." He trailed off absently. Huey followed his gaze to the clock on the wall opposite from them.
"Good?" He suggested dryly, turning back towards him. Riley's eyes were still steadily locked on the clock, his arms slightly crossed again while he gripped his upper arms unconsciously.
"Yeah." He mumbled in return, sounding about as pitiful as he looked.
Huey sighed. "Sit." He ordered, walking around Riley towards the lounge chairs. He glanced behind to make sure he was following him and was almost surprised that he was, finally broken out of his daze. Huey waited until he sat down next to him, even more surprised when he did so without a comment or argument.
"What's going on? I'm assuming this isn't cold feet." Huey asked him directly, raising an eyebrow at the slight glare he got in return.
"No, it's not cold feet."
"How would I know?"
"You wish."
"I would prefer it happen before the day of, but beggars can't be choosers." He quipped, earning a slight smirk and an eyeroll.
"Whateva nigga."
"...So definitely not cold feet then?"
"No!"
"Then what?"
Riley huffed, rubbing his hands back and forth along his pants. "I'm just...nervous, man."
Finally. Huey thought to himself. It was a start anyway.
"About what specifically?"
"Nigga, are you serious?" He snapped at him lightly. "Everything. Everything's gonna fuckin' change. I'm gonna be a damn husband, a father, a provider... like fuck. What if I can't do this shit?"
"Well-"
"What if I'm a failure?" Riley cut him off, not even hearing him start to speak. "What if the studio fails and I lose my job? What if I can't make money while Cindy's off work? What if I can't provide for her or the kids and we lose everything?"
"I-"
"Or worse." Riley continued, looking even more somber. "What if I'm just a fraud, yo? What if I'm not the man she expects me to be? What if I can't be the man she wants and expects me to be? What if I'm trash and one day she wakes up and realizes it and takes the kids and runs off to Mexico and I'm just a deadbeat baby daddy with no-OW!" Riley yelled after Huey had whacked him.
"I tried to hold off for as long as I could." He offered by way of apology. "But you're just being ridiculous now."
"Nigga how?" Riley demanded, rubbing the back of his head.
Huey gave him a steady look. "Do you love her?"
"Yeah? I mean, duh." He replied, confused.
"And do you love your family? Your kids?"
"Yeah."
"You'd do anything for them?"
"Obviously."
"...That's that, then." Huey said after a brief pause.
"What does that mean?"
"It means that you're going to be just fine."
"How do you figure?"
"You're not a fraud, Riley." Huey told him simply. "Frauds don't react like this. Frauds don't put themselves through this and they leave before there's any real commitment."
"Still." Riley muttered. "What if I'm not good enough? For her... for them? What if I stop making her happy?"
"Let me tell you something. How you are with Cindy now is the way she expects you to be with her forever. You both are going to grow and evolve over the years, but the root of it is the same. Are you always going to be there for her? For your family? To want more for them? To do more for them?" It was a rhetorical question, but Riley eagerly nodded along anyway, causing the corners of Huey's lips to slightly upturn despite himself.
"Then you are always going to fight as a provider, Riley. Whether you have your current job or do something else. Even if you're in between jobs, you'll find a way. And you're always going to be a father to you kids, the best that you can be. I already know that. It's a learning curve but you'll figure it out, just like every parent does. You and Cindy both will. As husband and wife. I have no doubt that you'll be just as devoted to her fifty years down the road as you are to her now. Because in just... twenty-five minutes from now," He paused to check his watch. "You're going to start the next chapter of your life with her, as her husband. And I'll be honest..." He trailed off, slightly wincing and already regretting opening his mouth.
"What?" Riley pressed, noticing his expression.
"I'll deny I ever said it." Huey warned, closing his eyes for a moment. "Because there are a lot of couples that marry, and I often predict their separation or divorce almost right away, and I'm usually right... but..." He paused again, noticing the way Riley leaned in closer.
"I don't have that prediction with the two of you." He muttered quietly. "If anything, I could probably predict that you both will stay together for the rest of your lives."
The grin on Riley's face could've practically lit up the room, almost making the statement worth it. "So that comment in the limo was bullshit then, huh?"
"Uh no, it's still a very valid statement." Huey defended.
"But not about us?" Riley grinned even wider. Huey remained silent. "I can't wait to tell everyone."
And there's the regret... definitely not worth it.
"I'll deny it."
"Your predictions are never wrong."
"No one will believe you."
"You know, it's just crazy enough that they just might."
"Alright, conversation over. You're fine." Huey rolled his eyes, rising from his chair.
"Aye." Riley spoke again, standing as well while he held out his hand. "Thanks."
Huey took it, allowing him to pull him into bro-hug. "Anytime."
"Best-nigga for life, man." Riley told him, giving him a pound on the back.
"No homo." Huey returned the favor.
"Damn nigga!" Riley instantly pulled away, giving him a light shove. "Ruinin' the whole thing!"
Huey shrugged with a smirk, glancing back at the clock. "It's gonna be here closer than you think. Are you finally feeling more ready?"
"Almost..." Riley said distractedly, staring at the clock.
Huey turned to look back at him. "What do you mean?"
Riley was able to pull his eyes away from the clock this time, confusing Huey by the way he smiled at him. "I need a favor."
His hands were jittery as he paced back and forth in his small corner within the foyer. They also were sweaty, no matter how many times he kept wiping them off on his pants and jacket. He tugged at his bowtie again, the feeling of it being way too tight around his neck, even though it wasn't. If he loosened it anymore, it would probably come right off. He had to stop fidgeting. And pacing. But he couldn't help it. And the activity all around him wasn't helping his nerves any better.
He looked out the tinted glass doors, past the bridesmaids and roaming photographer that were bustling around excitedly in anticipation, out towards the courtyard. He could just make out the faint sound of music from the small quartet of violins that were playing outside near the archway. Every seat was filled except for just two in the very front row corner: one for him and his sister.
It was time.
"May I have your attention, everyone?" Like clockwork, Cookie appeared at the top of the stairs behind everyone. "We're just about to get started, alright?"She announced, causing the women in the room to start squealing and for him to swallow a big gulp.
"Come on, honey." She turned behind her, waving a gesturing hand for the person to follow as she started down the stairs.
"RILEY!" The women squealed even louder as he appeared behind her.
"Sup ladies." He smirked with a slight head nod. He barely got his foot off the last step when the bridesmaids rushed him in a group hug. The boy was instantly lost in a mass of flowy burgundy dresses as the photographer snapped pictures.
"You look so handsome!" Jazmine cried out.
"More like SEXY!" Cindy's wild little cousin practically yelled.
"I'm so excited!" Anthia exclaimed.
"Me too, me too!" Jamilah chimed in, right at her mother's heels.
"If y'all get lipstick and makeup on me!" Riley complained, managing to pull himself out of their grip, but with a big grin on his face.
"Now girls," Cookie chuckled, moving closer. "Listen carefully. We're about to start. Riley is going to escort me out to my seat. I've already let Cindy know that we're ready so after him and I exit through the double doors, let her know that she's okay to come down and line up. As soon as I'm seated and I give the motion to the band, they're going to start the music. Jazmine honey, you'll be first. As soon as you walk through the doors, Huey is going to be right there to meet you, the groomsmen are coming from the side. Anthia you'll be next, then Lorena, and then our flower girl and ringbearer together." She smiled warmly, looking down at the youngest members. Jamilah beamed up at her while Trey managed a shy smile, as quiet as could be the entire time.
"Just keep a nice, steady pace. The next bridesmaid can start heading out when the one before is about 10 feet down the aisle. But don't think about it too much. You all look lovely and it's going to be beautiful." Cookie told them, giving them each a smile. She then turned to her brother, giving him a slight look as she propped a hand on her hip.
"Robert..." She said expectedly, in that mothering tone of voice she always used with him.
"Yes?" Granddad asked stubbornly as he crossed his arms, in no mood to get a lecture two minutes before the ceremony. He was already stressed enough.
She shook her head at him slowly with the tsk of her tongue, reaching her hands up to his bowtie. "You look handsome." She told him kindly while she straightened it. "Now remember, you and Cindy are going to wait until the kids get all the way down the aisle. You won't start until the wedding march starts playing, alright?"
"In case you've forgotten, I have done this before, woman." He told her with a smirk.
"Mmmmhmm." She hummed, giving him a grin. "Stop stressing, stop worrying, and stop pulling at this tie, it's going to fall off." She instructed, giving it a tight pull back into place and making him choke.
"I can't breathe with it this tight!" He complained at once, already reaching to tug at it.
"Yes you can, now stop whining." She dismissed, smacking his hand away. "Anything last minute you'd like to tell our boy?" She asked him pointedly.
Granddad looked toward Riley while he stood tall next to his aunt. He looked sharp in his crisp black suit, easily the best he's ever looked. He also surprisingly had a calm confidence to him, which was strange because he seemed to be a nervous wreck barely an hour ago. He looked ready now, eager almost. Happy.
He smirked at his grandson. "Yeah. Try not to let your jaw hit the ground too hard when you see her."
Riley gave him a slow eyeroll with a grin, extending an elbow to Cookie. "I'll try my best." He replied, beginning to walk with her to the doors.
"Good luck girls! As soon as the doors shut behind us, give Cindy the cue to come out!" She told them.
"Got it!" The bridesmaids echoed.
They watched after them as they walked together down the hall and towards the doors. When they reached them, Cookie reached up to peck his cheek before whispering something quietly to him. Immediately after, she used her thumb to wipe off the traces of lipstick while the women quietly cooed. Riley grinned down at her and kissed the top of her head while reaching for the door handle.
"The door is open." Lorena announced quietly, looking more than a little antsy.
"Not yet." Jazmine held up a finger without looking at her.
"Omigod, look how full it is, it's happening!"
"Not yet." Anthia repeated.
"The door is closing... closing... closing-"
"Girl, if you don't knock that off, my blood pressure is already high as hell right now!" Granddad snipped, not being able to stand it any longer. She didn't even notice.
"THE-DOOR-IS-CLOSED-CIIINNDDYYYYY!" Lorena rattled off in a booming voice, whirling around to face the stairs. Before Granddad could even scold her for yelling in his ear, Lorena gasped loudly, causing them all to whip around.
"I heard the door close." Cindy said softly, already halfway down the stairs. When she reached the ground, no one said a word or moved as they stared at her. Somehow Granddad found his voice after a moment.
"They were walking pretty slow girls, you probably have time for a quick hug."
That seemed to snap them out of it as they hurried over to her, very similarly to how they did to Riley.
"Don't any of you make me cry!" Cindy giggled.
"I'm first, so I've got to go get in position." Jazmine said, fanning at her eyes. She lightly put her hands on Cindy's cheeks to gently cup her face. "You are beautiful. I'm so happy for you." They gave each other another brief hug before Jazmine pulled away, quickly stepping over to kneel down next to the kids.
"Jamilah, Trey, you both are going to do great and everyone will be so happy to see you." She smiled, taking each of their hands. "Granddad and Cindy will let you know when it's time to walk, okay? Just smile and have fun."
"They're about to start the music, I think." Anthia tapped Jazmine, gesturing over towards the doors. Jazmine nodded, giving a quick peck on the cheek to Jamilah and squeezing Trey's hand once more before standing up again and hurrying over down the hallway.
"Meet you down there!" She tossed over her shoulder, grabbing her bouquet from the side table before stopping at the door, right as two doormen opened them for her. Huey was instantly at her side the moment she stepped out and they both began their descent down the aisle.
"I'm next. You look gorgeous. Enjoy every moment." Anthia gave Cindy a light hug before heading down the hall to grab her bouquet and follow Jazmine.
"I can't believe this is really happening." Lorena gushed as they all started to move closer towards the door. "You're about to become a married WOMAN. Like holy sh-"
"SHIPS." Cindy interrupted her quickly, glancing down pointedly at the kids.
"My bad." Her cousin giggled, picking up her bouquet. Then she gave her another hug before starting backwards towards the door. "Love you. Proud of you. And thank you...for hooking me up with the hot Asian, crazy rich hopefully." She winked, turning around on her heel to walk outside.
"He only has a crazy girlfriend." Cindy smirked, shaking her head. They were near the door now, but far enough back that no one could see in. "Here you go, Mila." Cindy said, grabbing Jamilah's flower basket while Granddad took Trey's pillow with the fake rings tied to it.
"This is a man's job, son. Think you can handle it?" He asked him with a warm smile.
"Uh-huh." Trey nodded, taking the pillow gently as he seemed focused on the rings.
"Mama showed me how to throw the flowers too!" Jamilah said excitedly, twirling around in her light gold dress.
"Oh I know she did." Cindy chuckled, ushering them forward a little more. "Okay, you two. You both can start walking about...now!" She whispered, watching them go.
"Take your time!" Granddad added quietly, more-so for him. He was starting to feel sweaty again.
"I can't believe it's here already... wow." Cindy breathed out a sigh while she picked up her bouquet, watching fondly as the kids started down the aisle. She turned towards him after feeling his gaze on her. "What?" She grinned.
"You... are stunning, Cindy." He told her with a smile, quickly losing it after the photographer snapped a picture of them with the flash going off. "Boy, if you don't get the hell out the way and put that damn thing off flash, we're tryna have a moment and you over here ruinin' it, hell!" He snapped, causing the man to awkwardly wander off, making Cindy laugh.
"I love you so much." She said between her giggles. "Thank you... honestly. Thank you so much for being here for me." She told him seriously.
Granddad took her hand. "You've always been family, honey. It's just going to be evident on paper after today."
Cindy squeezed his hand, leaning her head on him to nuzzle into his shoulder. They watched the kids get closer and closer towards the archway.
"You almost ready to make it official-official? Become a certified Freeman with all that it entails?"
She chuckled. "I think I am."
"I've got to be honest, I don't think Riley's ready for you."
Cindy tilted her head up towards him. "What makes you say that?"
Granddad gave a light shrug. "I told him not to let his jaw hit the ground too hard when he sees you, but we're way past that. More like jaw through the floor. It's going to be broken."
"I don't know about that." Cindy beamed.
"I do, and I know my grandson. I see the way he looks at you on a regular day. Today? You've never glowed more."
Cindy blushed and shook her head, turning back to the doors. Jamilah and Trey had just gotten there and taken their places. "It's happening." She said, her voice slightly higher.
"Let me get your veil for you real quick." Granddad told her, thankful that he remembered. She turned to face him at once and he very gently lifted the veil over her head to cover her face. The music had just started to play and everyone started to rise as Cindy took hold of Granddad's elbow.
"I've got you." He promised.
"I know you do." She answered quietly.
"Let's do this, Cutie-Pie."
There wasn't much that could really make her happy.
Hell, there wasn't even that much that could really make her smile.
She knew that about herself. It didn't bother her really. Shit like that made you weak, she thought. People were so into feelings lately, like way too heavy. And they let WAY too much shit control their moods or emotions. And for what? It was ridiculous. The only thing that could ever make her happy was herself. Period.
Well... almost...
She couldn't control the grin as she watched the only love of her life mosey down the aisle. The way he walked, his dimpled little smile, that little outfit on him with those suspenders...
Trey had his mama's heart. The only one who probably ever would.
"He's so cute, man." Tyrone said near her ear, seated on her right.
"Shh." She shushed him quietly, a big smile on her face as she recorded him with her phone as they passed her. Even though Trey's focus was on the rings, he glanced up at his mother's presence and gave her a proud, beaming grin while he walked by. Jamilah had noticed the camera as they walked as well, pausing her flower-tossing for a moment to give her a wave. Kelly didn't give it much thought and waved back at her on instinct.
"Tell me you got that." Tyrone whispered to her again.
"Yes, now relax." Kelly told him, rewatching it back. The white girl had gotten her the hookup and allowed her to get there early to snag an aisle seat near the front.
She was surprised when she felt Tyrone's hand gently cover hers. She turned to glance at him, but he still had his eyes near the archway as Trey stood next to the other groomsmen.
"Don't tell me to relax when you're the one who caught a case over this whole thing from the jump." He said to her quietly, still smiling. He turned to smirk at her. "And look at you now. Can't keep the smile off your face."
"Boy, bye."
"'Boy, bye.'" He mimicked her, chuckling when she rolled her eyes at him. She would've said more but the music transitioned and everyone started to rise to their feet.
Kelly and Tyrone stood at the same time, but while he turned to look towards the back, Kelly kept her eyes ahead at the front. She stared at Riley directly, knowing that he wasn't focused on anything else but the girl at the end of the aisle. She could tell the moment he physically saw her by the way his eyes lit up and his stance immediately faltered. The open-mouthed smile on that boy was contagious by the way she felt her own lips turn upwards despite herself.
"Wow." Riley mouthed, her being close enough to read his lips. And dammit all, she was instantly pissed at the way that triggered her heart. She was over him. Completely. By a lot actually. She didn't even know why she was so infatuated with him to begin with because it would've never worked. Especially not with Cindy in his life. It had been a wrap. She saw the way they looked at each other, even back then.
And God... despite herself, despite those feelings, and despite that level of weakness... she would give anything to have someone, anyone look at her the way they looked at each other.
It was only by a slight shift in pressure that Kelly realized Tyrone was still holding her hand.
Man, he wished he could speed up time.
Not by a lot, just a little. He wanted them to have this moment. To have this day.
But damn... all he wanted to do was speed up the next 15 minutes so he could make this woman his wife already.
Riley hadn't kept his eyes off her since the moment he saw her in the aisle. Everything else faded to the background, even the noise. The officiant speaking was basically muted to him. He hoped he heard him when he asked him to repeat after him. But he couldn't get over her. And he couldn't take in anything else but her. Every last detail.
She was a vision.
Cindy's cheeks were rosy behind that veil while she stared back at him. He knew that she knew he was studying every aspect about her, practically ingraining it to his memory. Her glow made everything about her that much more breathtaking. From her smile, the way she walked down the aisle with such grace, and by her presence before him.
And that dress. It was as if it was made for her. It was a non-traditional style with the light ruffled sleeves that laid off the shoulder, and dropped to right above her elbow. The blush champagne color was gorgeous on her and the light reflected from it strikingly, especially with the lace design. Speaking of the lace... damn. It gave the entire dress and style a life of its own, from the intricate detail at top of the sweetheart neckline all the way to the bottom of the scalloped train. Then there was the middle...
Riley's eyes kept finding themselves back at Cindy's beautiful belly. The natural way the dress laid created such a prominent focus to her baby bump. He could tell their boys were active by the way she cupped her belly lovingly as they met at the archway, beaming at him happily before they took each other's hands. His smile matched hers as his eyes hovered over her belly, wanting nothing more than to rub her entire body down. He loved seeing her pregnant, she was so fucking gorgeous. He was completely in awe of her and couldn't wait for all of it. The official title of becoming her husband, their kids, their future together.
Everything had finally led them to this moment in time, and Riley could barely wrap his head around it when he thought about it for long enough. They were rivals when they first met all the time ago, maybe even enemies if he really wanted to go there. It took awhile for their combat relationship to dissolve into a truce. And then by some miracle, a friendship. He would've never guessed that from middle school into high school they would become best friends, and that he would ever start to develop feelings for her.
And her in return.
That was probably the wildest thing about it. He thought he had been crazy for all that time. That it was only him. Only him in jeopardy of fucking up their friendship because what, she was the prettiest girl he knew? Because they shared mutual delinquent instincts? He had tried to create so many lies and excuses in his head and almost tried to trick his brain out of having feelings for her, telling himself that they were just surface and not at all real. And more importantly that even by some chance his feelings were real, he wouldn't stand a chance and she'd never see him in the way that he saw her.
Dumbass. Riley thought to himself with a smile, barely holding back a chuckle. The stupidest thing he probably ever did was not tell her sooner. They could've saved so much time and unnecessary heartbreak. Not that it mattered now. The timing happened the way it did for a reason and they were probably better people now for it. He just couldn't believe that it's taken them so long to come to this.
He was ready, and again, couldn't wait for time to speed up. He tried to tune in to listen for a moment, but easily became distracted by the way she continued to smile at him. The vows were starting soon maybe? He wasn't sure, hopefully he'd snap back into it whenever he heard his name called. It had just become so hard to concentrate with everything going on in his head...
...Especially because of what already happened earlier.
"Like this, Mommy?" The little one asked in the dressing room, holding a small bowl of leftover flowers. She carefully picked up small handfuls and fluttered them gently through her fingers.
"That's excellent, baby." Her mother smiled down at her. "Don't be nervous, okay? I want you to have fun! You're allowed to toss the flowers wherever you like." She said, emphasizing her point by reaching into the bowl and giving the handful a vibrant toss. Jamilah giggled at Jazmine and Cindy chuckled from the loveseat across the room. They had just a little bit of time left before the start. Anthia and Lorena had went together to get their individual pictures taken by one of the photographers. Jazmine and Jamilah had already gotten theirs done and were waiting in the room together with Cindy.
Knock knock.
"Who is it?" Jazmine immediately asked, already crossing the room to the door.
"It's me."
"Daddy!" Jamilah beamed at her father's voice.
"Can you open the door for a minute?"
"Honey, Cindy's in here, you can't see the bride!"
"Why would I care? I'm not the groom!" He exclaimed, causing Cindy to laugh.
"You still can't see her." Jazmine told him, opening the door a slight crack to look at him.
"Fine, can you and Jamilah come out here then?" Huey asked instead.
"For what?"
"The photographer wants to take a few pictures of us."
"Me and Jamilah already were with the photographer just a few minutes ago."
Huey paused for half a second before continuing. "He told me he wanted a family photo."
"Why? And why wouldn't he tell me that?"
"I don't know, why don't you ask him when we get back there? Come on, Jamilah." He said, already retreating from the door. Jamilah happily went and followed him out right away. Jazmine glanced back in confusion at Cindy sitting in the chair.
"What's that all about?" Cindy asked, raising an eyebrow.
"I dunno, but I guess we'll try to head back soon?"
"Yeah, be quick, I'm sure we've got to head down in a bit."
"I will. Be back soon." She smiled, slipping out of the door and pulling it shut. Cindy stretched as she stood from the lounge, cradling her stomach right after with a smile on her face. The twins had been moving around all day. Could they feel her excited butterflies too?
Knock, knock.
Cindy glanced at the door. They had literally just left. "Did you forget something, Jazz?" She asked, heading towards the door.
"It's me." The voice said, and Cindy paused, her hand already mid-reach for the handle.
"Riley?" She replied in surprise.
"Yeah, it's me." He chuckled. "Would you mind if I came in to talk to you real quick?"
"Baby, I'm in my wedding dress. You're not supposed to see me yet." She told him, feeling ridiculous as soon as it was out of her mouth.
"Did you get superstitious overnight orrr...?" He cracked, making her giggle. "I won't look at you if you want but this really isn't the sort of thing I want to tell you through a closed door."
"Okay, just umm... ooh, give me a minute!" She said, heading over to the other side of the room. While the room itself was a spare dressing/changing area, there happened to be one large accessible stall in the corner. Cindy went to it and stepped inside, pulling the chair that was in the stall over towards the door. Once she closed it, she carefully stood on top of the chair so he wouldn't see the bottom of her dress.
She cleared her throat as she rested her elbows along the top of the stall and looked towards the door. "You can come in."
Riley slowly pushed the door open and stepped inside, pushing it closed and locking it behind him. Once he turned back around, he glanced towards the corner of the room and did a double take.
"Hey there, handsome." She smiled down at him in his fitted black tux. She didn't understand how he looked ten times more amazing than he usually did. She already knew his hair looked great, she'd literally just braided it two nights ago. And she'd already seen him after he shaved his facial hair. Aside from the suit, it was just his vibe and his energy. To her, he was the handsomest guy in the world, no question.
"Well first of all, wow." He replied, his smile wide as he walked closer. "...Damn, you're beautiful." He told her while he openly admired her face, causing her to blush.
"Thank you, baby."
"I take it you don't want me to come in there." He said, glancing longingly at the closed door.
"I gotta leave a little to your imagination since you wanna see me early and all." She grinned with a casual shrug.
"I'm sure you'll be worth the wait and reveal." He said huskily, staring up at her again.
She chuckled. "I know this is super romantic and very Romeo & Juliet-ish."
"To an extreme." He smirked.
"You're the one who wanted to see me."
"I do."
"And why's that?"
Riley blinked up at her, taking in a breath before clearing his throat. Then he paused again. "...I'm not always going to be the best husband."
"To me you will." She responded truthfully without hesitation.
"I'm not always going to be the husband you deserve." He clarified, looking serious as he stared up at her unwaveringly. "I'm going to fuck up. I'm going to overreact to things. I'm not always going to listen. I'm unintentionally going to cause you pain and hurt that you shouldn't have to go through."
Cindy felt her eyes tingle against her will. In the effort to make things simple, they'd opted for traditional vows. Yet here he was, being Riley. Spontaneous and perfect as always.
"I want to apologize in advance for all my shit babe." Riley continued, taking a step closer. "Cuz I can't promise that it'll only be one or two or a handful of times that you have to deal with it. But... I can promise that we will always have more good days than our rough ones. I promise that I am never going to go a day without loving the hell out of you. There will never be a day where you ever question my love for you, no matter what's going on. There is never going to be a day that I don't feel blessed and thankful as fuck that you're my wife."
Cindy bit her lip, raising her eyes to the ceiling as if it would stop the flood from coming. "You are going to make me cry." She told him quietly.
"I don't want to make you cry. I just needed to tell you this." He said, reaching up for her hand. When their hands met, he enclosed hers with his other hand as well, his eyes fixed on hers the entire time. "I love you so damn much. And no matter what happens or changes in our lives, I'm never going to stop trying to be a better man and a better husband for you. I'm always going to be your protector. Always going to be your rock. I'm always going to be your best friend underneath it all, just like you're mine. You've got me for life, babe."
Cindy stared down at Riley, not even having the words to express to him. "Baby, I-"
"Cindy?" Aunt Cookie's voice sounded from the hallway with a quick knock on the locked door. "It's almost time, honey. I'll be back to let you know in a few minutes, so finish up getting ready!"
"Yes, Aunt Cookie!" Cindy called back, suddenly feeling antsy.
"Has anyone seen Riley?" They heard her ask as her voice retreated from the door. Riley grinned with a fond eyeroll.
"That's my cue." He said nonchalantly, rubbing the back of her hand.
"Seriously?" Cindy chuckled. "You're really gonna come in here, say all of that, and then just walk out like it was nothin, huh?"
Riley gave her his trademark smirk before bringing her hand close and kissing the back of it.
"I'll see you at the altar, babe."
This man. She thought to herself, replaying the scene over in her head while staring at him. His perfect lips were moving as he recited the vows, repeating the words flawlessly after the officiant as he guided him. Yet the only words she could hear were the ones he told her in the dressing room. And then he placed the ring on her finger... that brilliant, perfect ring. The family heirloom that he thought she was worthy of.
You don't deserve me...? Not even close. It's me who doesn't deserve you.
"And now for the bride." The officiant's voice barely registered in her head. "Cindy, repeat after me-"
"I'm not going to be perfect either." Cindy blurted out, staring straight ahead at Riley. His eyes widened in surprise, clearly not expecting her to go off script. She spared a side glance at the officiant. "...Sorry, I just have to say this."
"By all means." He smiled, gesturing for her to continue. Cindy turned back to Riley who still seemed caught off guard.
"You're not the only one who's going to fall short on days, Riley." She told him simply. "As your wife, I know that I'm going to fail sometimes. Multiple times probably. My attitude is most likely never going to change. I'm going to have my occasional temper tantrum. I'm going to act like a brat every once in a while. I'm still going to fight and argue with you til I'm blue in the face, even when I know you're right deep down, only because I hate to lose." She grinned, earning a laugh out of him and most of their family and friends watching.
"I can believe that." He snickered, still smiling at her.
"But like you said, I can also promise that I'm going to give you more of my good days than my bad days. I promise that I'm still going to light up when I see you after a long day. I promise to always make up and apologize to you after I blow up, because I don't want to ever go to bed one night angry at each other. I promise to always and forever be your ride-or-die, even when we're poppin' wheelies in some nursing home together." She giggled, causing him to chuckle and shake his head lovingly at her.
"You are my greatest joy in life, Riley." She told him, feeling her eyes watering again but not being able to hold it back anymore. "And building a family and a future together with you is the best thing I could ever imagine. I can't wait to see where life takes us next. And I can't wait... to fall deeper in love with you every day for the rest of my life. I love you."
The guests slightly awwed and Cindy sniffled, beginning to slide the ring onto Riley's slightly shaky hand.
"So you're really gonna say all that and just put the ring on my finger like it was nothin, huh?" He told her quietly while she did so.
"Just like you did." She whispered back with a wink after she finished. He blew her a kiss back in return.
"Riley and Cindy," The officiant spoke again, smiling at each of them. "Prior to this moment, you each walked a separate path. Now, you embark together on a shared path. Today, you have stood before your friends and family and declared your intent to commit your lives to each other in marriage. Your road to this moment has not always been smooth, but you continued to fight for one another. I hope you will never forget the fight and perseverance it has taken to get to this moment. And I hope you will never forget the love and joy you feel today, because these are the values that will keep your marriage, family, and bond to one another strong."
"And for the moment I'm sure you all are waiting for," He chuckled.
"Yessir." Riley grinned.
"For too long." Cindy added, gazing up at him.
"By the power vested in me, I now pronounce you husband and wife. You may kiss your bride."
And it was in that moment that she shared the softest, sweetest, most intense, yet most tender kiss that she'd ever received from Riley, hands-down the best she'd ever had.
Because she shared it with her husband.
She hadn't expected to cry today. She had barely expected herself to well up. She wasn't really an overemotional person, despite what most people thought for some reason. Sure, she was in tune with her feelings, as were most women. But she believed herself to have a sense of resilience about most things. For the majority of situations and just life in general. There was very little that could truly unravel her.
However... once those boys come into the picture, all bets are off.
Including the big one.
Aunt Cookie dabbed at her eyes with her napkin as she watched Robert and Cindy share the father-daughter dance. She was so proud of him, and so proud to call him her brother. She probably didn't tell him enough, in fact she knew that she didn't. Compliments went to that man's head way too quickly. But still, he really had done a great job. Raising the boys had by no means been easy, so she's heard. And honestly, she had her doubts whenever he was given custody over them when they were such young boys.
But look at them now.
What men they had become. She knew that there had been struggles. She knew in her gut that her brother probably had not always been the best role model. Yet he did it anyway, somehow. He shaped and molded these boys into accountable, responsible gentlemen. She couldn't be prouder of all three of them. And she knew that their parents and Robert's kids would've been equally as proud.
She couldn't fathom the way that Cindy's father would miss out on his daughter. On being apart of her life. These moments were something he could never get back, and it was a shame. She prayed for reconciliation maybe one day between them. She also prayed for reconciliation between Cindy and her mother. If she wasn't mistaken, she had been at the service in the back row. She had never met her mother of course, but Cookie had noticed her during the recessional as guests started to follow Cindy and Riley out of the ceremony area. As she passed her aisle, she noticed and made eye contact with the woman. That face and those eyes were way too remarkably similar not to have been related to Cindy. She never got the chance to confirm since she hadn't seen her since, as she'd apparently had taken a opportunity to slip out.
Again, a shame. She hoped that she and her daughter would have a chance to talk again soon. For that chance of healing and resolution. Maybe her mother attending the ceremony portion of the wedding, even though she hadn't talked face to face with Cindy, was the first step and sign of willingness.
Aunt Cookie clapped her hands, snapping out of her thoughts as Cindy and Robert's dance came to a close. In the next instance, she felt a pair of arms wrap around her upper chest and shoulders from behind.
"You ready for our dance, Auntie?"
She smiled as he rested his head on top of hers. "The better question is are you ready? Don't have me out there lookin' no fool now."
"I would never." He told her, giving her cheek a kiss before letting his grip go and walking around beside her. "Besides... I'm the only one in this family that has rhythm."
"And who do you think you got it from, young man?" She grinned, propping a hand on her waist. Friends in their vicinity chuckled while Riley put a hand to his heart, pretended to be offended.
"I dunno Aunt Cookie, I might just have to teach you a lil somethin-somethin." He shrugged, moving backwards onto the dance floor with a smirk. Almost immediately after, three magical words were sung through the speakers of the room.
Love and happiness
The family surrounding her starting whooping right away, it was a known Freeman favorite, especially hers.
"This one's for you, Mama Cookie." Hiro cut in from his DJ stage, giving her a wide smile.
Yeah...
Something that can make you do wrong, make you do right
"Whoop his ass, girl." Granddad said as he approached her, bringing his fist up to dap her while Al Green vocalized.
"Show him how it's done, Aunt Cookie." Cindy beamed at her.
Aunt Cookie just raised an eyebrow out at Riley, now all the way on the floor waiting for her with that smug grin on his face.
Love...
"Baby, take notes cuz I'm about to school you." She boasted in the brief silence, earning another whoop from everyone else. In the next moment, everyone in the room stamped their feet along with the five iconic stomps in the song before those jazzy notes overtook the room with a hyped up energy as she joyfully danced over to her youngest great-nephew.
She watched them together while she was in his arms. The newlyweds hadn't come off the dance floor yet and seemed so blissful. She'd never seen Riley smile so big in his life. And Cindy... that girl couldn't keep her eyes off him. They were precious.
She was so happy for them. Not to mention excited. She couldn't wait to see what the next chapter of their future held for them. Here they were, new career paths, now happily married, and about to become parents. She couldn't be more excited to see what was in store. For all of them.
"You can't stop watchin' them, huh?" Her date asked her, glancing down with a grin.
"They're cute, what can I say?" She replied with a shrug.
He shook his head and gave her a graceful spin before pulling her closer into his arms. "You're cute." Caesar whispered, planting a kiss on her temple.
Anthia blushed, nuzzling against him. "I'm just really happy for them. They deserve it. This is perfect."
"Is this something you would want?"
Anthia looked up at him, slightly confused by the question. "What do you mean?"
Caesar shrugged slightly. "I mean, anything. The venue, an event or party like this... marriage?" His voice seemed to nervously falter at the word, which was so unlike him she giggled.
"Are you asking me if marriage is something I'm interested in?"
"I mean, it's never come up in conversation before." He said, still sounding so strangely unconfident and so unlike himself.
Anthia nodded, knowing that was true. "It is."
"You want marriage?" He repeated.
"With the right person, yes."
Caesar nodded, not quite making eye contact with her, but seeming a little more relaxed. "Okay. That's good to know."
She laughed. "Oh is it?"
"It is actually." He grinned, finally seeming normal-ish again.
"What, do you want me to catch the bouquet in a few minutes?" She teased. "Cindy's cousin is just waiting for me to let go of you so she can steal a dance."
"Girl, she's 17!" He laughed.
"And she wants herself a big, strong man!"
"So I'm your big, strong man?" He challenged.
"Yes." She told him honestly.
"Good, that's all I wanna be." He replied, pecking her lips.
"Mmmmhm." Anthia grinned, resting her head back on his shoulder. "Don't worry, I'll try reallyyy hard to catch the bouquet for you."
"You can if you want babe, but whether you do or you don't, the flowers don't matter."
She snapped her head back up to him, not knowing what the smirk on his face meant. "Meaning what?"
"Meaning the flowers don't have any indication on when I'm going to propose to you." He told her boldly, shocking the hell out of her.
"When?" She squeaked out without really thinking.
All Caesar did was wink at her.
She was ready. The rest of these biddies were not.
She didn't give one fuck, she had pushed her way to the front of the crowd and stood in the very middle for the best chance.
That gorgeous hunk of Asian DJ-ing had cued up Single Ladies, a classic choice that she appreciated. Got her in the mindset easily. She had been single way too long.
Not to say she wanted to get married anytime soon (or at all) because fuck all of that. She was seventeen for God's sake. Hell nah, she had way too much to explore before she tied herself down to one person when there would how many billion in the world. That was just stupid.
Honestly, other than bragging rights, she didn't know why she put herself front and center. Similarly to her cousin, she was also wildly competitive, so it could've been that too. Not to mention, maybe one of these fine ass men would slide the garter from the men's garter toss up her thigh all sexy-like. Oh yeah, that would do it. She was back in the zone.
"Ready, ladies?" Cindy shouted over her shoulder at them.
"YEAH!" The other women shouted.
"HELL YEAH!" Lorena shouted last. She managed to somehow censor herself, slightly at least.
"1... 2... 3!" She exclaimed, tossing the bouquet backwards over her head.
Lorena had this. She knew that she did. God, she was already fantasizing about one of those boys touching her leg. Okay, maybe not Huey because he was married. But the one with the dreads? He could get it. Or that hot one that was at the park with the son. He wasn't dating that mean-looking chick she didn't think. Oh, if only the DJ would be an option too. He was single maybe? He could just put a song on auto-play and come down to get in line and—
Before Lorena knew what was happening, the bouquet was snatched right above her head before she could even make contact. She whipped around in shock to see Kelly of all people, who looked to be in equal shock.
"Are you kidding me?!"
"Uhhhh..." Kelly stared back and forth between her and the bouquet in her hand, not seeming to know what exactly happened either. "Here?" She suggested, holding the flowers out.
"Oh no you don't!" Cindy snatched them away out of Lorena's reach again. "That ruins tradition and our luck for the rest of our lives. Do you want to be responsible for that?"
"Yeah Kelly, that's rude!" Riley shouted out from the crowd, causing everyone to laugh.
"You're joking, right?" Kelly deadpanned.
"Nope! Congrats to the catcher of the bouquet." Cindy grinned, initiating the light applause. "Stick around, we'll need you in a bit."
"Whateva, white girl." Kelly shook her head before walking away, still gripping the bouquet.
"Pissed." Lorena pouted, crossing her arms.
"You're fine." Cindy patted her arm with a smile, glancing away from her. "I'll be back. Hey Ceez!" She called out to him, that fine piece of work turning to look at her.
"Sup?"
"Walk with me, talk with me." Lorena heard her say discreetly, but there was a familiar mischief in her eyes.
Whatever it was about, she knew it was about to be good.
He smiled down at her. She scowled up at him. He gave a wave. She rolled her eyes and sipped her champagne. It made him laugh. She was so cute and funny.
He knew that she probably was annoyed that he couldn't be down there with her more, but it's not like he had a choice. He came down when he could and texted her multiple times to come up to him. Her text back wasn't surprising.
Come to me, Otomo.
He could do her one better though.
How bout we come to each other tonight?
He was so glad he had a good view of her when he sent that text. He actually had made her blush, which was a feat all in itself! He'd probably catch shit for that later. Ming never wanted to feel like the submissive one in the relationship, but there had to be a back and forth every once and while, right?
Hiro cleared his throat, lowering the volume of the current song. "Alright alright, party people! We're about to follow up that beautiful bouquet toss with the garter toss for my guys in the room. But first, we gotta remove that thing. So Cindy my dear, please have yourself a seat. And Riley... my dude... respect." He smirked, pressing the next song on his playlist and turning up the volume. At the start of the first four notes, everyone started cheering and wolf-whistling.
I've been really tryin', baby—
"Time out!" Huey rudely interrupted Let's Get It On by holding up his arms.
"Negro, what?!" Riley snapped from in front of Cindy, clearly ready to dive under her skirt.
"I'm escorting the children out of the room before you do... that." He said, wasting no time in scooping up Jamilah and surprisingly Trey as well.
"You're going to watch them both?" Jazmine chuckled from the other side of the room.
"I'd literally rather watch anything other than this." Huey responded, already halfway across the room to the exit. Everyone else laughed while Hiro shrugged, turning the volume back up on the song. Cindy's face turned bright pink immediately as Riley wasted no time "working on that garter."
He shook his head, glancing away almost shamefully after having to watch Riley and Cindy's (well, Riley's) display. He'd finally "found" that damn garter after what seemed like way too long to locate it. Thank God the kids had been taken out of the room, whether it was by Huey or not. At this point, he didn't care who had taken them.
"Well that was... somethin." Caesar said from his right, suddenly beside him.
"Yep, that's... that's a word for it alright." He agreed with a nod.
"He's not shy or anything."
"Doesn't seem like it." He shook his head.
"Allllright, well now that that piece is finally off, we can proceed to the garter toss." Hiro announced over the speakers again. "Are all the men who are willing to participate ready?"
"Surprised you're up here to be honest, I thought you were taken." Caesar spoke again.
"Me? Nah."
"Take it away, Riley."
"Oh ok. Doesn't seem like your thing though."
"Ready, y'all?"
"It's not. But I don't want Riley to call me out for not being up here, because I'm sure he would." He shrugged, making no move to prepare himself as he left his hands at his side.
"He definitely would." Caesar agreed, glancing behind him.
Riley didn't do a count-off or anything, but as soon as he went to throw. Caesar let out a loud sneeze... and suddenly no one was next to him, including Caesar himself. The garter landed right on his shoe and when he turned back to look, all of the groomsmen were at least three feet back!
"Congratulations to the catcher of the garter, Tyrone!" Hiro called out.
"What?!" He exclaimed. "I didn't even catch it!" He protested.
"It chose you, nigga!" Riley cracked up, coming over closer.
"Whoever is closest to the garter or whoever it lands on is the winner. Somehow both apply to you." Caesar added as he appeared back at his side, shrugging a shoulder.
Tyrone glared. "What the hell?"
"What the hell what?" He asked dumbly.
"Are you serious?" Kelly was suddenly in front of them, not looking too pleased.
"Oh perfect, they're both here!" Cindy said excitedly, now joining the huddle as well. "It's time, Hiro!"
"For what?" Both Kelly and Tyrone demanded.
"It's now time for the final part of the bouquet and garter toss, ladies and gents!" Hiro spoke into the microphone. "Kelly, if you'll please take a seat on the dance floor chair."
"I'd really rather not after what I just witnessed." She muttered as Cindy pulled her towards it anyway.
"Tyrone my man. As catcher of the beloved garter, you will now apply it to the catcher of the bouquet's leg, AKA your girl, Kelly."
"She's not my girl though!" Tyrone explained for the umpteenth time.
"And he's NOT my man!" Kelly practically squawked. He gave her a look at her tone. Didn't he just say that? Like she had to repeat it all hard like that.
"Relax y'all, just have a good time. It's just for fun!"
"And tradition, so DO IT!" Cindy added.
"That too." Hiro snickered, hitting a button for the music to start. The slow, jazzy tune of Death Of A Bachelor began to play through the speakers.
I'm walking the long road, watching the sky fall
The lace in your dress tingles my neck, how do I live?
Tyrone took in a deep breath as he slowly started to head over to where Kelly was sitting. Her arms were crossed and she looked extremely uncomfortable. She was wearing a floor-length dress so he'd have to at least slide up part of her skirt to get the garter on her thigh.
The death of a bachelor
Oh oh
Letting the water fall
The death of a bachelor
Oh oh
Seems so fitting for
By the time Tyrone had approached her, Kelly looked about ready to jump out of her skin. Before he even squatted down to touch her, she wrinkled her nose and whipped her head to the DJ booth.
"What the hell even is this?" She snapped. "I can't even concentrate or relax with this garbage."
The track ended with an audible scratch to the record. Hiro stared at her in brief moment of silence before raising the microphone to his lips.
"Oh I'm sorry sweetie, you don't like my songs?" He asked innocently enough.
"Not that one." Kelly shot back.
Hiro blinked at her. "Oh okay. No worries, I gotchu. New song comin' right up your alley." He said calmly, hitting a few buttons while he stared at her. When the music finally did hit, Kelly's face reddened and Hiro's lips turned upwards.
Pony by Ginuwine.
"OHKAYYYY!" Caesar shouted out while most of the men in the room whooped and laughed at the legendary intro. Tyrone pinched the bridge of his nose.
"Get it girl!" Lorena cheered from the crowd. Kelly was trying to make eyes at Hiro for him to change the song, but he simply shook his head, all while keeping that placid smile on his face.
I'm just a bachelor
I'm looking for a partner
Someone who knows how to ride
Without even falling off
Tyrone finally squatted down in front of her on one knee, staring at her face until she begrudgingly made eye contact with him. Then he grabbed her leg, causing her to blush even more.
"Way to go, Kel."
She wouldn't tell him it.
She wouldn't text him it.
Hell, she wouldn't even tell herself.
But... deep down... she supposed she could say that she was looking forward to the two of them finally getting out of here and away from these people.
She didn't know anybody.
Well... that wasn't exactly true. She did know a select couple. Or knew. How many years ago that was. She had been cordial with him when they met again. She stated his name and he stated hers. Then they kept it moving. Thankfully. The women weren't a problem. She didn't necessarily like them, but they were at least more tolerable than the men.
"So we playin' kickball after this or what?"
Ming snapped her head to the left to see none other than Riley Freeman leaning against the wall. He had clearly had more than a few glasses of alcohol. The party was starting to wind down and she'd heard that the limo for the bride and groom had already been called. Unfortunately for her, she was stuck until the bitter end because someone wanted her to ride home with him.
Riley took in her appalled face and immediately busted up laughing, which quickly pissed her off. And as much as she wanted to bite her tongue, he was not about to get the last word. "Only if you want your legs broke."
"There she is." Riley continued unfazed, still chuckling. "I knew Nice Ming 2.0 was a fraud."
"Coming from you? The original gangster of Woodcrest?" She scoffed. "That's rich."
He rolled his eyes, lifting his glass to his lips. "Yeah whateva, Ming."
She smirked, once again not being able to hold it back. "Whatever, Riley Elijah."
He literally spit out his drink, thankfully away from her. "Whhaatt?" He sputtered out, not even able to contain his surprise and it was glorious. "Who the fuck told you that?!"
Ming brushed off her dress nonchalantly as she stood from her chair. She gave him a doting smile as she began to walk past. "Who do you think found out and spread it around? Oops." She eluded with a light shrug.
"Honey... sweetheart, wake up. There's someone who wants to say goodbye to you."
She stirred, rubbing her eyes as she did so. She had fallen asleep long before the end, getting plenty of undisturbed rest between her father, mother, and great-great-aunt. When she opened her eyes, she was face to face with her uncle.
"Unca Reezy." She yawned, batting her eyes slowly.
"Hey sleepyhead." He smiled at her, and she felt herself being lifted from her mother's arms into his. "I'm gonna see you soon okay? Me and Aunt Cindy gotta go for a bit."
"Will I see you tomorrow?" She asked sleepily.
"Not tomorrow babe, but probably next week. We're gonna be outta town for a little while."
"I'll miss you." She told him, wrapping her arms around him.
"Awww, we'll miss you too sweetie." Cindy said from beside Riley's shoulder, leaning in to hug and kiss her cheek.
"I had fun, Aunt Cindy." She told her with a smile.
"I'm glad you did baby. Thank you for being the most perfect flower girl ever."
Jamilah giggled, still resting her head against Riley's shoulder. "Where's Trey?"
"I think they left." Huey said, rather grumpily.
"No Huey, they're right behind us I think. They were finishing up dancing." Jazmine hinted, glancing down the hall.
"Ew."
"Shh." Cindy hushed, noticing them approach. "Did y'all have fun?" She asked them.
"We did actually." Tyrone answered, one arm carrying his son and one arm linked with Kelly's.
"Looks like it." Cindy replied with a smirk. Kelly's eyes narrowed at her slightly, but the small grin on her face remained.
"Thank you for inviting us." She told her.
"Thank you for letting us have him for a ring bearer."
"You can probably tell him yourself, he keeps waking up." Tyrone said, turning more so they could see their son's face.
"Trey," Jamilah called him sleepily with a smile.
He opened his eyes at that slightly and looked at her over Riley's shoulder. "Hi Mila."
"Say 'bye Mila.'" Huey mumbled, earning a hard nudge from Jazmine.
"Thank you so much for being our awesome ringbearer, Trey. You did so good." Cindy told him with a smile.
"Thank you." He grinned back at her tiredly.
"We'll have to have a playdate soon." She added. Somehow his eyes lit up a bit more and he nodded.
"Yeah," Jamilah added, the sleepy smile still on her face.
"Well on that note."
"We do have to start heading out." Jazmine ignored her husband. "And so do you guys. Have so much fun, okay?" She said, giving Cindy a hug.
"Thank you. We'll keep in touch."
"But not too much." Riley smirked. Then he turned back to Jamilah. "Be a good girl while we're gone okay? I can't wait to see you soon."
"Will you be back in time for mama's baby?" She asked semi-seriously.
He chuckled. "Yes baby. I promise I'll be back in time for your mama's baby. Cuz guess what? Uncle Reezy and Aunt Cindy have to have our babies around the same time."
"The same day?"
"No, not the same day." He chuckled. "But it'll be close. The point is, we'll see you really soon okay?"
"Okay." She smiled, giving him one last hug. "I love you, Unca Reezy."
He squeezed her back even tighter. "I love you too, J. Meezy."
:) :) :)
So happy. I've missed you guys so much. I was up til 4:45am finalizing this after I was finally able to get back in the zone and write the second half of this all in one shot. God how I've missed this. Hope you liked it. Let me know either via PM or review, both are readily appreciated!
NOTE: So remember when I said this was going to be a 40-chapter story... nah. I'm thinking I'm going to end it pretty soon around roughly 20 chapters or so. I don't feel it necessary to drag it out as long with individual weekly chapters, so the next update is probably going to be a time jump to much further along in the pregnancy. Not to be alarmed, I do have more ideas for this story and future adaptations planned, but I do have to wrap this one up first. I also am still working on the Friends First, Benefits Second story, so be on the lookout for the next update from that. I definitely have a bit more to go with that one so I'm looking to switch gears and get back into that one too :D
As always thank you SO SO SO SO SOOO much for all the love that I still get from these stories. It still blows my mind everytime and really helps me regroup when I'm struggling with certain chapters. It's really humbling to know you all still enjoy and still read and support. So thank you.
Can't wait to write more soon! Life has been CRAZY (need I say more). This year I'm trying to be all about writing more. I've even started a creative writing class just recently, and already I can tell it's helped me to just get into the practice of writing without thinking too much about the act of writing, if that makes sense? Maybe not idk. Point is, it's already helped and is going to continue to help and challenge me. It's still my passion, my dream, my end career goal and baby 2019 is the fucking year to put dreams in effect.
Love you all and can't wait to write more for you guys! Stay tuned!
~Schweetie