Page 173 of Rather: The Therapist

“I don’t understand,” Rather claimed as she shook her head.

“There’s no time to explain. I have less than thirty minutes to match your fly, though I find that impossible. You’re far too mesmerizing.”

Nervously, she observed the room. Something told me everyone in the room were aware of our connection but the person I shared the same blood with.

“Priest?” Kleigh shrieked.

“I’m sorry, baby girl.”

She rushed toward us, confusion crinkling her pretty face. A single arm halted her stride. The fierceness in the eyes of the woman who’d stopped her was taxing enough for us both.

“Sit down,” she demanded, “Before I sit you down.”

With a tilted head, she patted her thigh. Because I knew where Rather kept her piece, I was sure at least one of Rugger’s was hiding there.

“Rugger!” Rather yelled out.

With a shrug, she folded her arms, “She hasn’t shut up since we met her. My ears are on the brink of bleeding.”

“You–” Rather started, again.

“Rose,” I addressed her, cupping her chin.

“Yes?” She softened.

“This isn’t ideal and I’m fully aware you deserve the grandest gesture, but this is where we are and my presence is all I have to display my love for you today. That and my willingness to give up everything I’m in possession of except your love. You’ve been exactly what I’ve needed over the past three months. Your blessing didn’t end with me.”

“It has become part of Princeton’s weekly routine. Just like me, he looks forward to time with you. What you’ve given me, I’ll spend my life trying to repay you for. In this lifetime and the others I often hear you refer to, I promise to love you, cherish you, protect you, and meet you where you are time and time again.”

“My life was shitty without you. You’ve managed to bring me purpose, peace, and a newfound sense of priority. I’m ready to wake up to you every morning. I’m ready to wrap you in the covers every night. I’m ready to dig into the corny ass Romance novels you love so much. I’m ready for coffee in the morning. I’m ready for countless dates.”

“I’m ready for extra shampoo bottles in the shower. I’m ready for around the clock therapy from the best therapist in the fucking world. I’m ready to run your bath after a long day. I’m ready to build. And, more than anything, I’m ready to give my son the mother he deserves. But, first, I need to know if you’re willing to take a chance on us and meet me at the altar.”

Silently, Rather nodded, trying her hardest to keep her tears from ruining her makeup. She failed miserably.

“Yes.”

I released the breath I’d been holding as she wept, “I was ready the day I met you.”

I practiced self-control and maintained the bit of distance between us. With every fiber in my being, I wanted to comfort her. To kiss her. To take her by the hand and leave everything and everyone behind.

But, instead, I turned and left Rather with the women who cared for her most. My absence would only last for a little while. She’d agreed to meet me at the altar. I’d be damned if I kept her waiting.

Six women stood to the right of me. The seventh of the bridal party was on the piano, polishing the keys with her fingers. The cadence of her rendition of Etta James’, At Last, was flawless.

Rome was gifted beyond words. They all were. Each and every one of the Childers sisters. And, I was blessed to have the chance to join their tribe.

The doors of the chapel opened and there Rather stood. A veil concealed the face I wanted to wake up to a million times or more. Since she descended the steps at The Mansion, I’d secretly waited for this day.

Beside her was the man who’d made it all possible. The Chemist held Rather close as they took the first step simultaneously. My heart expanded. Another step and it widened a bit more.

“Uh Mm.” I cleared my throat, trying my hardest to keep my composure.

At last, my love had come along and she’d made my world a place I no longer wanted to escape. She brought light. She brought love. She brought passion. She brought purpose.

“If this motherfucker put this camera in my face again knowing my shit busted up, I’m shooting everybody in this bitch,” Kofi whispered, causing Killian and I to break character.

I placed a fist over my mouth to conceal the laughter. Killian had already snorted, drawing attention to himself.

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