by Ancelli
Jazmine chuckled. “I wonder why?” Haven turned in his arms, looking at the book cover. “You even turned Haven against me.”
“Mi muñeca de chocolate.” He kissed her cheek. “Daddy’s little girl.”
“Are you ready for tomorrow?” Jazmine sat on the edge of the bed.
Javier handed the baby to Jazmine, and she whined at bit. “Haven, you’re a traitor.” She rocked her to sleep. Javier sat behind her with his feet on each side.
“I’m as ready as I’ll ever be. Our parents will love or hate each other.” He kissed her neck and began massaging her shoulders.
“I think they’ll love each other.” She closed her eyes, enjoying Javier’s magic hands.
“We’ll see.”
Haven fell asleep, and Jazmine placed her on the bed next to her brother.
“Javier…”
“What happened to, Javy, baby, sweetie.” He smiled. “Whenever you call me by my name, it means I did something wrong.”
She got up and handed him a gift bag, and as soon as he saw the bag, his eyes got big. “Naw…”
She couldn’t help it; she burst out laughing at the look on his face. “No Javy, I’m not pregnant, it’s just a gift.”
“You didn’t have to.” He took the bag from her.
“I know, but I couldn’t resist.” She watched him excitedly.
Javier opened the bag and pulled out a small, gold-framed picture of his little boy and girl. It said Number One Daddy. He pulled Jazmine into a hug, a little emotional.
“And that’s because of you.” He kissed her with his talented lips.
“There’s something else in the bag.”
Javier looked inside, finding two airplane tickets to Puerto Rico.
“We never had a honeymoon, and I want to see more of your culture.”
“Baby, I love you.” Javier grabbed her hand. “I got you something, too.” he dug into his pocket and handed her a Tiffany’s blue box.
“Tiffany’s, but we’re celebrating your accomplishments.” She slightly jumped.
“Tomorrow is our day. A happy family makes a happy sailor. I wouldn’t have gotten promoted if I didn’t have your support.” He moved the bag. “You don’t want it?”
She grabbed it from his hand. “What is it?” she squealed.
“Open it.”
Her breath caught in her throat as she pulled out a diamond solitaire ring. “Javier, you didn’t have to.” The stone was crystal clear. “It’s beautiful.”
He rubbed her ring finger. “I never really proposed, so this is your engagement ring to match your band.” He slid it over her wedding band. Jazmine hungrily kissed him, slipping her tongue in between his lips, until he took control of the kiss.
Jazmine pulled back, touching her lips. “I almost forgot we have guests in the house.”
“Jose isn’t a guest.” Javier fixed his pants.
“He’s not, but Connie is.” She grazed his erection with her ass. “I’ll take care of that later.”
Javier’s smiled naughtily, wiggling his brow. “I know you will.”
“This came in the mail for you.” She smiled, opened the drawer to the nightstand, and handed it to him. “You need this.”
Javier took the white envelope and read the name.
Jazmine picked Haven up. “I’m going put her down.” She turned to look at him. “I don’t want to leave Connie and Jose alone for long. Your brother is something else.” Javier didn’t answer; he just stared at the envelope. Jazmine left the room and went down to the nursery.
~~~
Javier carefully opened the envelope and unfolded the letter.
Dear Javier,
Thank you for being my hero. If it wasn’t for you, I might have lost my life that day. You did everything you could to keep me alive, and in return, I blamed you for losing my legs. I’m so sorry for what I put you through. I never stopped and realized that you went through that horrifying day too, and you needed me. I was selfish and only thought of myself. I was in a dark place, and I took it out on you. I turned away from family and friends. I didn’t want no one’s help, until I met Lucas. He taught me that I should be grateful that I was alive, and I needed to stop feeling sorry for myself and get up and live. I went to therapy and got myself together. I realized my legs didn’t define who I was, and I could live a normal life. Some days are better than other, but I can finally say I’m happy again. I’m married to a wonderful man, and we have a two-year-old son, and all that was possible because you never left my side. I wanted to get in touch with you, but I didn’t have enough courage. I was afraid that you would close the door in my face, like I did. I see you’ve found a wonderful woman, Jazmine. She sent me a message with her phone number, giving me a choice. I called her, and we talked for nearly an hour. I was happy to hear about you. She told me you didn’t hold any anger or resentment toward me, but you did have guilt. Please let go of the guilt, because you didn’t do anything wrong. I’m alive because you kept me that way. You should be proud of yourself Javy, you are dear to my heart and will always be. Thank you for not hating me, and for giving me a chance to be happy. Don’t be mad at your wife, she loves you. And we decided, together, that we both needed closure. Take care my friend.
Sandra
Javier wiped a falling tear from his cheek. He felt like a ton of bricks had been lifted off of his body. He folded the letter and placed it where Jazmine had grabbed it. He was married to a fantastic woman; he wasn’t mad, he was thankful. He picked up Nicky, carried him to his room, and stood in the hallway, watching Jazmine as she laughed at Jose’s corny jokes. Connie didn’t find him funny.
Jazmine’s eyes met his, and she got up and strolled over to him. “Are you mad at me?”
He cupped her face and gave her a soft, sweet kiss. “Jazmine, what would I do without you?”
Her lips curled up, defining her dimples. “You’ll never have to find out.” She covered his hand with hers and pulled him into the living room. When they entered the room, they were shocked.
Jose and Connie were kissing, but as soon as Connie caught a glance of them, she pushed Jose.
“What do you think you’re doing?” Connie asked, jumping up.
Jose smiled. “Oh, now you’re playing games. Okay…” His chuckle was deep, and he winked at Connie.
Connie gave Jose a dirty look. “I have to go.” She grabbed her purse. “Jazmine, Javier, see you guys tomorrow.” She rushed out of the door.
Jose leaned back in the chair, placing his hands behind his head. “I have a sweet tooth for caramel and chocolate all of a sudden.”
Javier busted out laughing. “You can’t handle her.”
“How much you want to bet?” Jose smiled.
“Nothing.” Jazmine sat. “Jose, Connie is a good girl, she’s not your type.”
Jose sniggered. “I like a challenge.”
Javier took a seat next to Jazmine. “Leave that girl alone.”
“She’s no girl. She’s a grown ass woman.” Jose stood. “Can I borrow your truck?”
“Where you going?” Javier grabbed his keys and threw them at his brother.
“Sight-seeing.”
“At night?” Javier raised an eyebrow.
“Be careful,” Jazmine said.
Jose grinned, “Always,” and strolled out the door.
Jazmine and Javier didn’t say anything about what just went on, they sat and finished watching the movie that was playing.
Javier moved over, pulling Jazmine closer to him. “You owe me.” He nibbled on the sensitive skin of her neck.
Jazmine’s eyes closed, as she moaned. “Javy … Jose might be back soon.”
He unbuttoned her shirt and then her pants, and he started slipping them down her legs. “Trust me, he won’t be back anytime soon.”
She kicked off her pants. “Then what are we waiting for?”
He continued his assault on her neck, leaving a trial of wet kisses down to her breasts. Jazmine opened her eyes, gazing into h
is. She unhooked her bra, releasing his favorite toys. “Mmm … my favorite candy.” He licked her nipples and sucked them in his mouth like a starving child.
“Javy…” She pulled him closer to her chest, moving him to the other breast. “That feels so good.”
Javier released her nipple, making a popping sound. His fingers made their way into her pants, moving her panties and playing with her clit. “You’re already wet for me.”
“I’m always wet for you.” She ground against his fingers.
He slipped his finger out and licked the juices off his digit. “Mmm…”
Javier picked her up and straddled her on his lap, she started grinding on his covered bulge. “If you like those,” he tugged on her lacy panties, “take them off.”
Jazmine bit her bottom lip, and then they curled up into a naughty smile. “These are my favorite.” She lifted up and guided them down her calves. Javier pulled them off and rapidly disposed of his pants and boxers.
She sat back down and rubbed her pussy on his dick. Damn, she was overly wet, and in a swift move, his cock slipped into her core. He placed his hands over her ass and pushed her down.
“Oh God…” Jazmine’s head fell back as she rocked her hips back and forth, rotating from side to side.
“Fuck … baby…” Javier thrust up, and her core contracted around his staff. He smacked her ass. “You like it baby?”
“Oh yes, papi, I … love … it…” She placed her hands in his hair and tugged him forward, devouring his mouth, her tongue played a game that he loved, and she tasted every crease of his mouth. She took his breath away, and she moved back, gasping for air. “Harder … more … yes….”
“Damn, woman…” Her ass bounced up and down. He gripped her hips, trying to keep up with her rhythm. He smacked he ass again, and her moaning became louder.
“Yes … papi … I coming…” She rolled her hips, and her muscles clamped down on his rod.
Javier’s mouth was slightly agape, gazing at Jazmine as her climax rocked through her body. She gripped his shoulders, digging her nails into his flesh as her body shook into ecstasy. “Jazz…”
Javier’s body slanted over, and he thrust up into her without mercy. Another orgasm rocked through her body, and he fell over the edge of ecstasy, too. His fingers dug into her hips, and he growled her name. “Jazz … mine.”
They sat on the couch in each other arms, catching their breath. Her head rested on his chest. “You make me the happiest woman in the world.”
His fingers caressed her ass and then up to the arch of her back. “Sandra said you’re wonderful, but she is wrong.”
Jazmine raised her head and looked up at him. “I thought you weren’t mad at me?”
He smiled. “She was wrong because you’re amazing.” He kissed her smiling lips. “Thank you for taking care of me, and knowing what I need before I even do.”
“Javier Alexander Martinez.” She kissed him back. “We make each other better…”
***
“Lucy, are you sure you’ll be okay with the two of them?” Jazmine tried to put Haven to sleep before going to the ceremony. “You don’t want to go?”
“Nope, I want to stay with my niece and nephew. I hardly see them.” She gently took the baby out of Jazmine’s arms. “I babysat Carlitos when he was a newborn, and if anything happens I will call you.” Lucy answered. “You don’t trust me?” she pouted.
“Of course I trust you, but Nicky is a handful.” Jazmine watched her son run from room to room.
“I can handle him.” Lucy grabbed Nicky’s hand. “See you when you get back.” She walked back to the guest bedroom.
“She’ll be okay.” Maria entered the room.
Maria looked beautiful in a black, casual dress. “When are your parents coming?”
“They should be here soon.” Jazmine smoothed her beige and black dress.
Papo entered the room in a black suit, looking handsome with his hair sleeked back. His dad was an attractive older man; he and Maria made a beautiful couple.
Jazmine smiled, looking at her father-in-law. “You look great.”
“Thank you.” He grabbed Maria’s hand. “My woman takes good care of me.”
The doorbell rang, and Jazmine strolled to the door and pulled it open. “Hi dad, mom.”
Her dad hugged her first, giving her a kiss, and then her mom kissed her cheek.
“Come in.” Jazmine ushered them in.
“Where’s my son-in-law?” Her dad searched the room. “I’m proud of him, one more step and he’ll be a Master Chief.”
“He’s getting dressed.” Jazmine looked up the stairs.
They entered the living room where his parents were.
“Mr. and Mrs. Martinez, these are my parents, Lauren and Paul.”
Papo’s face went pale as he looked at her mother. Maria strolled up to them and extended her hand.
“So nice to meet you.” Her parents shook Maria’s hand. “You raised an amazing woman.”
“Thank you, she is amazing,” her dad said.
“Yes, she is. We’re so proud of her and all her accomplishments,” her mom proudly said.
“We’re proud of both of them,” her dad said.
Jazmine stared at Papo, it’s like he’d seen a ghost. “Papo, are you okay?”
“Yes, sweetie.” He walked up and shook her dad’s hand. “I’ve heard great things.”
Her dad smiled. “Good, me too.”
Her mom had a weird look on her face, but she still extended her hand.
He took her hand in his. “Papo, it’s nice to finally meet you.”
Jazmine’s mom was actually being nice to her father-in-law.
Papo still held her mother’s hand. “Lauren, do I know you from somewhere?”
Her mom gently pulled back her hand. “I don’t think so.”
“You look like someone I knew.” Papo moved toward his wife.
Her mom’s lips curled up into a smile, a genuine one. “It wasn’t me,” she stared at him. “I think I would remember if I had ever met you.”
Maria glared at her mom, and Paul just gazed at them.
Javier entered the room, making all of them turn. He was wearing his khaki uniform. “Bendición.” He looked gorgeous, down to his shoes. Javier’s hair was freshly cut, and his muscular frame could be seen in his uniform. He placed his cover on the table.
“Que Dios te bendiga,” Maria answered.
Jazmine smiled and walked up to him. “You look stunning.” She kissed his lips, caressing the side of his head.
Javier took her hand and kissed it. “Honey, you look beautiful.” He lifted her hand and looked at her from top to bottom as she spun around.
Someone cleared their throat. “None of that,” her mom said.
Her father ambled toward Javier and shook his hand. “You’re looking sharp son.”
“Thank you, Sir.” Javier fixed the six rows of ribbons and two warfare devices.
Maria strolled up to him. “Mi hijo, estoy tan orgullosa de ti.”
Javier’s arms tightened around Maria, and he kissed her head. “Gracias, Ma.”
His dad gave him a bear hug.
“Let’s go, we’re going to be late.” Jazmine picked up the car keys; Javier placed his hand on the arch of her back and then guided her out with their parents in tow.
***
Jazmine, Jewel, Jose, and Javier’s parents sat in the second row of the auditorium, her parents were in the back. Jazmine stared at the large American Flag decorating the back of the stage. Javier and five other chiefs stood at attention as the commanding officer spoke. Jazmine was so proud of Javier; everything he’d been through and he still felt honored to serve in the Navy.
“I was so terrified when I got the call that he was hurt. I thought I’d lost my baby.” Maria wiped the falling tears from her cheeks, looking at her son. “But look at him now—he’s grown up into a fine young man.”
Papo smiled. “He turned his life
around. I’m so proud of him.”
“Your husband is the cutest,” Jewel leaned over, whispering in Jazmine’s ear.
“He is.” Jazmine was in awe looking at her husband. He stood on stage like he owned it. His sleeves were tight around his bulging biceps. Javier’s shinning eyes met hers, and they smiled at each other.
The officer at the podium started with the female chief first; he called her family and mentor to the stage, so they could pin her new rank on her collar.
“Chief Javier Martinez,” the officer called.
“Yeah, that’s my brother!” Jose shouted, and Jewel whistled, making the audience laugh.
Javier shook his head and paraded to the front of the stage.
“You are authorized to assume the title and wear the uniform of a Senior Chief Petty Officer, U.S. Navy. You are entitled to all the privileges of that grade except those restricted by law…..” The officer finished reading the letter in his hands. “Chief Martinez will be pinned by Commander Wood, his wife, and parents.”
Jeremy walked down the aisle and gave Jazmine a hand getting out the seat.
“Thanks.” She strolled toward the front with his parents and Jeremy following behind.
Javier’s lips curled into a huge smile when they stood next to him. Jazmine took the new rank out of her pocket and replaced the old one on his collar as his parents did the other. He was now a Senior Chief. Jeremy placed his new cover on his head.
“Well deserved.” Jeremy shook Javier’s hand.
Maria finished pinning his new device on his collar, an anchor and two stars. The Public Affairs Petty Officer had them pose for a picture. Javier waved at his brother; Jose and Jewel stood and clapped, making the audiences join in, too.
Jose and Jewel had become great friends in the few months they’d known each other. Javier was proud of his brother. He was turning his life around, becoming a better man and father.
Javier bent down and hugged his mother. “This is all because of you. You believed in me.”
Maria began crying again. “No puedo estar mas orgullosa de ti. Te amo mi cielo.”