Page 85 of Mia

“I know I didn’t do this right the first time. So, I’m coming to you as a man to ask for your blessing to marry your daughter again.”

He smiled and crossed his arms. “Is that right?”

“Yes, sir. I ain’t the most romantic nigga, so I might need some help to pull this off. I want to plan a recommitment ceremony. We’ve been through a lot, man. We’ve fucked up, but we’re both trying to be better people.”

He nodded. “I see that, son. Both of you are growing, separately and together and it’s been a blessing to be here to witness it. I love my baby girl. All I ever want is for her to be happy. I know she loves you, and I know you love her. I have no doubt that you’ll take care of her. Knew it the day you came and asked me to hand over the reins with paying her bills and shit. I don’t play about my babies, and that made me gain a new respect for you.”

“My Pops doesn’t play that not taking care of your women shit. You’re her father, and I respect that, but as a man, and more importantly, her man, that was my job. I don’t take providing for her lightly. Ever.”

He chuckled. “Well, I’m glad I know you make good money, because that’s my most expensive child.”

“Trust me, I know.”

“You have my blessing. Ima tell you like I told my daughters-in-law and Quaid, once you take them, you can’t bring their ass back.”

I chuckled. “If I did, I wouldn’t have far to bring her.”

He slapped me on the back. “Come on here and tell me what you’re thinking for this impromptu ceremony.”

Thank God my father-in-law knew people who knew people. He hooked me up with Somya, the event planner, and Cartel, the chef who was catering the food. His sister, Alaina, was also here to take pictures. While Senior wanted to pay for everything, I declined. I was a man and, while I appreciated his help, it was up to me to take care of and provide for my wife.

Mia’s head jerked back in my direction before her eyes settled on her parents standing in front of us.

“Titan, what is this?”

I took her hands in mine. “This is us recommitting ourselves to each other and this marriage.”

Tears pooled in her eyes as she did a little stomp. “You planned a wedding?”

“I had a little help,” I said, looking at Ms. Maddie and Senior.

“That’s why you were acting weird, Mama?”

Maddie smiled. “I was trying to keep my shit together,” she said. “It was so hard keeping this a secret.” She cupped Mia’s face and kissed her cheeks. “I love you so much, baby. You deserve this.”

Senior nodded in agreement. “She’s right. I can say a lot of things about this young man, but what I can say for certain is that he loves you without a doubt. He’s a good one, baby girl. You keep giving my boy a real chance to show you that. You don’t have to be afraid.” He kissed her temple and swiped the tear from her cheek. “You ready for this?”

Mia looked at me. “Are you ready?” she asked.

“Been ready, mamas.”

“Okay, then, let’s do this.”

Jaeda, her big belly, and Quaid stepped up to the platform, Bleu resting comfortably in his arms.

“I think you’re gonna need a few things,” Jaeda said.

First, she handed her a bouquet of flowers. Then she presented her with a piece of folded fabric.

“This is the veil from my wedding,” she said, fighting back tears. “Kalia has a while before it can be my something borrowed for her own wedding, but it’s perfect for you.”

Both of them were in tears as Jaeda pinned the veil in her hair. When she was done, they shared a tight embrace.

“I love you, sissy,” Jae said, kissing her cheek.

“I love you too, Jaeda. Thank you.”

Jaeda stepped back and Quaid stepped forward.