Page 105 of Risks

“Crazy indeed,” I whisper againsthis chest. “But I love how unconventional we are. I wouldn’t change anything. It’sour family, and I love everything about it.”

47

Two years later…

The violinist begins playing, and alleyes turn towards the patio doors.

Kenya makes her exit first, causingFinn to harrumph beside me and adjust his collar. Alison follows next. My bigsister gives my arm a loving squeeze when she reaches my side.

Drawing deep breaths, I try to remaincomposed as I wait for Toya. Soft oohs erupt when the woman I love more thananything in this world emerges in a jaw-dropping, strapless white gown, curlsneatly styled in braids with hair jewelry enhancing her elegance.

My eyes immediately start to waterfrom the rush of emotions. I blow nervous breaths and shift in place, my heartrapidly lashing against my ribcage like a trapped animal as Toya walks acrossthe yard.

God certainly took time on her.

She’s stunning. Sepia-brown skinmore radiant than ever on this bright spring day, makeup subtle, an excitedsmile on her face as she stares at me.

The cherry blossoms sprinkling fromthe trees only emphasizes the moment, making it more magical and heavenly.

Pausing at Jesiah and my dad, theyaccompany her down the runner, adorned with rose petals.

Toya smiles at her grandparents andmine, then carries her gaze to Lisa. Mother and daughter share a sweet nodbefore Toya sets her focus back on me.

Our dads let her go when she reachesme, and Jesiah shakes my hand before taking his seat beside his wife, Shanice.

I trail my eyes over Toya, ever inawe of her.

“You’re so beautiful,” I breathe outand turn my head slowly.

Toya beams in return. “We’re finallyhere.”

Indeed. It feels like we’ve waited aneternity for this moment. I’m tempted to skip to the end, slide the rings ontoher finger, and run off with her.

Throughout the ceremony, we hold eyecontact, never lowering our heads from shyness or flicking to the officiant.And before I know it, we’re exchanging vows.

As the lady excitedly announces usas husband and wife, indescribable happiness explodes inside my chest.

We crash into each other, kissingmadly to the loud cheers of our family and friends.

“It’s you and me forever, VarenKirby,” Toya whispers at the end, tears flowing down her cheeks.

“Forever, Latoya Kirby.”

Laughter bursts out of her when I lifther into the air and twirl her around.

Everyone draws closer, celebratingus. Even Hope is clapping and bouncing in Lisa’s arms. Our two-year-old babysister is just as immersed with joy.

Toya throws her arms around me whenI set her back on her feet, and we hold each other for a bit longer before takingpictures as newlyweds. Then we mosey over to the tent to enjoy the reception.

I was ready to give Toya whatevershe wanted for the wedding. But she insisted on something small, and withLisa’s help, having the ceremony in the backyard at their home turned out to bea great idea, especially since we’re by the water.

Toya and I barely leave each other’sside for the rest of the evening.

After yet another passionate kiss inthe middle of slow dancing, I say in a near whisper, “You have no idea howhappy you’ve made me.”

She tilts her head back and looks upat me, eyes glistening with pure affection. “Just as happy as you’ve made me.”

I kiss her once more, press myforehead against hers, and we continue to sway to the romantic melodies of EdSheeran’sPerfect.

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