Page 161 of Rather: The Therapist

Alone in the bridal suite, I patted my eyes dry for the last time. I began counting down from twenty in an effort to steady my shaky hands and jagged breathing. Slowly, my lids closed as my body began to regulate.

You’re okay. Everything is okay. My father’s voice played in the back of my mind. You’ll never be able to see your future if you’re busy with the past.

His advice resonated with me. It was most fitting for the moment. If I didn’t let Priest go, then I’d never learn to love Kofi. It was time to put the past three months behind me so I could begin building the foundation for a prosperous, fruitful future with my husband.

I pulled myself together and headed back into the ballroom. It was then I had a change of heart. I made a personal promise to embrace the moments leading up to the rest of my life. Ashland and Kleigh had put so much work into Kofi and I’s big day. It was time to enjoy the fruit of their labor.

“There you are,” Kleigh called out to me. “Kofi’s been looking all over for you. Is everything okay?”

“It will be.”

Kofi was waiting by our seats to take my hand. I joined him at the table that was reserved for our family and the wedding party. My nerves had settled and so had my raging heart.

Everything will be everything. I coaxed, taking Kofi’s hand. He leaned in closer. His cologne was becoming more intoxicating with each passing second.

“I thought I had a runaway bride before the wedding could even begin.”

“I’ve done many things in my life, but ran from my responsibilities has never been one.”

“Good. That means I’ll see you at that altar tomorrow?”

“In my white dress.”

“That’s what a nigga wanted to hear.”

He joined his hands and clapped silently. I grabbed them and pushed them down until they fell by his sides.

“Don’t start, Kofi,” I warned with a smile, knowing that he hardly had any reservations.

There hadn’t been a time I’d spent with him that didn’t end in uncontrollable laughter. Things were always good with Kofi, which led me to believe we’d be fine. Only time would heal my brokenness and help me learn to love him. I was looking forward to the day I did.

Grace, Rather. You deserve grace.

The decor was beautiful. My dinner gown was flawless. My sisters were by my side. And, my husband-to-be was right next to me with a smile that nearly reached his ears.

Because of my status, a legal, court-appointed marriage in the United States wasn’t plausible. But, we’d managed to arrange the legalization of our union in St. Catana for the following week. There, we’d participate in a smaller, more intimate ceremony for my family.

In the two hours the girls and I had alone, we’d come up with the plan and I was anxious to see it through. Our honeymoon would last over a six-month span. We’d travel the world, visiting three countries that our families deemed as safe zones.

It was crucial I kept a low profile, and steered clear of government officials. We weren’t in the clear yet, but I was certain it wouldn’t be long before we were.

Everyone settled around us, taking their assigned seats and preparing for the dinner to officially begin.

“Um Mm,” Ashland cleared her throat as she tapped the side of the wine glass in her hand.

From the swaying of her body and her loose limbs, I could tell it wasn’t the first glass of wine she’d finished.

“I’d like to start by thanking everyone for joining us tonight. Not all of you will have the chance to witness Kofi and Rather’s ceremony tomorrow, so tonight is very special. I’ve dreamt of this day since I found out I was pregnant with Killian.”

“Standing in front of guests, saying all the great things a mother can think of about the child she birthed while everyone struggles to keep their tears at bay. Well, this isn’t one of those times. Admittedly, Kofi has been a pain in our asses since he came two weeks later than his due date.”

Laughter erupted.

“Even with all his foolishness, there’s one thing I can’t take from him. He’s a good man. Marrying the woman standing next to him will be his greatest accomplishment. I can feel it. So, I’ll save the tearful speech for the renewing of vows when I actually have something good to say about my son. Until then, congratulations, Kofi and Rather. May God be the center of your unity. May it last forever more.”

Cheering followed Ashland’s words. Kofi raised his glass and the rest of the guests joined him. I, too, raised the glass in front of me.

“To Kofi and Rather,” Killian yelled.

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