by Darrien Lee
Craig waited nervously with Venice’s brother, Galen, Joshua and Skeeter. He paced the floor, occasionally stopping to check his watch. He had chosen a tailored tuxedo, which fit his tall, masculine physique to perfection. Any woman in her right mind would have had to be blind not to notice him. He was one gorgeous, sexy man.
Galen had been one of his closest friends at college. He straightened his tie and said, “Dang, Craig, you’re about to wear a hole in the carpet. Chill!”
Skeeter agreed. “Yeah, man, you’re making me nervous. You don’t have anything to worry about. Venice is not going anywhere.”
Craig stopped pacing for a moment.
“You guys just don’t understand. I’ve dreamed of this moment more times than I can remember. All those times in the past, I woke up. It’s not a dream anymore. I just want everything to go as planned.”
Joshua went over and patted him on the shoulder. “Craig, relax. I told you that I would take care of everything and I have. This is your day. The day you’ve been waiting on. Enjoy, man.”
A few minutes later, Craig’s sister, Bernice, came and informed them it was time.
Craig gave each of them a brotherly hug and they exited the room.
In the sanctuary, Venice’s and Craig’s families, as well as her former in-laws, witnessed what they felt was a blessed union. Jarvis’ parents were elated that Venice had not given up on love and had found a wonderful man that their grandson adored. Their immediate family and close friends were all in attendance. As the music began, Venice appeared in the doorway on her father’s arm. From the moment Craig laid eyes on her, he stopped breathing. She was absolutely stunning. Her slow journey toward him allowed him to have flashbacks from the moment he first met her in college until he last saw her at her wedding to Jarvis seven years ago. Some of the memories were happy and sensuous, while others were sad and depressing. Yet this day had become the happiest day in his life. He thought about his mother and father and how much he wished they were there to share in his joy. Today, the only woman he had ever loved would become his wife and soon the mother of his children.
Venice finally made it to Craig’s side with tears streaming down her lovely face. Seeing her so emotional caused his eyes to mist. He reached up and gently wiped away her tears as he whispered, “I love you.”
Brandon proudly stood next to his mom, waiting to give her away along with his grandfather. Once the music ended, the minister began, “Dearly beloved. We are gathered here today to join this man and this woman in holy matrimony.”
Katrina stood outside the doorway of the chapel. She turned and asked Nathan, “How do I look?”
“Spectacular, Kat. Are you ready?”
“Just as soon as the minister asks, ‘If anyone here has any reason this man and woman shouldn’t be joined, speak now or forever hold your peace.’ Then, Nathan, my darling, this party is on.”
Katrina and Nathan listened tentatively as the Reverend recited passages, which the couple repeated. He made it to the section, “If anyone here has any reason this man and woman shouldn’t be joined, speak now or forever hold your peace.”
Katrina looked at Nathan and said, “Showtime!”
She burst through the door with Nathan in pursuit and shouted, “I do!”
The small audience of guests turned to look at a beautiful, statuesque woman strolling toward the altar. Nathan flashed pictures at Katrina and the stunned guests.
Katrina said, “I object because this woman doesn’t deserve this man! She is a backstabbing whore who cheated on her dying husband!”
Katrina put her hands on her hips and smiled.
“I am the only woman who could make Craig Bennett happy. Venice Anderson is not fit for any man!”
At that moment, the minister said, “Miss Simmons! Please, there must be some mistake! This is not the Bennett/Anderson wedding.”
Katrina was so into making her speech and facing the camera, she didn’t look up at the couple. When she did, it was not Craig and Venice. Her hands covered her mouth in shock.
The Reverend said, “Miss Simmons!”
“How do you know my name?”
The bride, groom and minister all said, “We’re Chicago police officers and we have a warrant for your arrest for the murder of Tyrone Waters a.k.a. Gunner.”
Katrina froze as a female police officer posing as a guest handcuffed her. She couldn’t believe what was happening.
Katrina screamed, “I didn’t kill Gunner!”
The officer told her that she had the right to remain silent, etc….
About that time, Lynette and Francine entered the room.
“Boogie! I’m so glad to see you. Tell them I didn’t kill Gunner.”
Lynette ran up to the officers. “I’m her sister. Please let her go. She didn’t kill that awful man.”
The officer said, “I’m sorry, Ma’am. If you want to talk to her, you have to come with us.”
Francine asked, “Katrina, are you all right?”
Katrina turned and asked, “Where’s Craig?”
“I don’t know, Kat. Honey, I think you need to see a doctor.”
Boogie agreed, saying, “Trina, you’re my sister and I love you. I’m going to take you home so you can have the best of care. Okay?”
Katrina looked at her sister, dazed, and calmly said, “Whatever you say, Boogie. I’ll do whatever you say.”
Manley entered the room.
“Release her, officer.”
Lynette, Katrina and Francine all turned and looked at this striking man. He was about six feet four with broad shoulders and handsome features. His dark complexion was smooth and his scent was all male. He moved toward them in a confident stride.
When he stood before them, Lynette asked, “Who are you?”
Katrina said, “He’s one of the officers who came to my house.”
Manley didn’t confirm or deny Katrina’s statement. He waited until she was uncuffed and told everyone to exit the room.
Once the room was empty, he sat Katrina, Lynette and Francine down saying, “Have a seat, please.”
They sat and waited as he took his jacket off. Francine, in particular, noticed his professionalism and the fact that he was hiding a very fit body under his suit. They continued to wait in silence as he pulled out a small notepad and a tape recorder. He recorded the date and time.
“For the record, I need each one of you to say your name.”
Boogie asked, “What is going on here?”
Manley said, “Ma’am, we’re trying to wrap up a murder investigation and the only way to do that is to interview the last person he was known to be with. We’ve tried to interview Miss Simmons in the past but faced difficulty.”
The ladies did as they were told. After Manley finished the interview, he said, “Miss Simmons, I found out in our investigation that some crimes were committed against you as a child. It’s unfortunate, and I feel because of your experience, you are having some problems in your adult life. We also received a report that you have been blackmailing an individual whom I will not name. This individual does not want to cause you any problems, but I will say if you continue the harassment, I will have you arrested. I don’t believe jail is where you belong, but I do recommend you seek some professional help as soon as possible. Lastly, to satisfy all parties involved, you need to consider resigning from your job or changing careers.”
Boogie said, “Thank you, Sir. I’ll take Katrina home so I can see to her health.”
Manley stood. “Good. Katrina, you are not to have any contact, verbal or otherwise with the unnamed parties, ever. If you do, you will find me in your face again and you won’t like it. Agreed?”
Katrina dropped her head. “Agreed.”
“Well, this meeting is over and, ladies, have a safe flight. Miss Lynette, I will be checking in with you from time to time to see how Miss Katrina is doing.”
“Thank you.”
Manley extended his hand. “Good day, ladies. It’s be
en a pleasure.”
He happened to hold Francine’s hand a little longer. It wasn’t until she blushed that she pulled her hand away. He just smiled and exited the room.
Lynette hugged Katrina. “Let’s go home.”
Katrina turned and hugged Francine.
“Thanks, Francine. You’ve been a great friend.”
Francine hugged her back. “I’ll always be your friend, Kat. I’ll come visit you as much as possible. Okay?”
“Okay. Please tell Craig that I’m sorry and that I didn’t mean to hurt him. I just love him so much.”
Francine said, “I’m sure he knows, Kat. You’re a valued employee and just maybe when you get better, you can come back to work.”
“I hope so, Francine. I love my job and living in Philly.”
Katrina looked at Lynette. “Well, Boogie…I guess we need to be getting back to the Windy City.”
“Let’s go, Trina. Francine’s going to secure your house for you.”
Nathan was nowhere to be found. When those officers flashed their badges, he disappeared with the quickness.
CHAPTER Twenty Nine
Back in Dawson, Craig and Venice finished reciting their vows and exchanging rings. After Craig found out Katrina saw the itinerary of their Ocho Rios wedding, he changed everything to his hometown.
The ceremony was at the part for Brandon to do his thing. He walked over and lit a candle in remembrance of Jarvis. He then returned and stood beside his mother while smiling up at Craig. Venice had always loved the beautiful sanctuary of Craig’s hometown church. She had spent many Sundays there during the time she attended college. Before pronouncing them husband and wife, the minister announced that Craig would be singing a song dedicated to Venice. She looked at him in disbelief as he took her by the hand and led her over to the piano and proceeded to serenade her with a beautiful song he’d written especially for her. Needless to say, when he finished, there was not a dry eye in the room.
Joshua turned to look at his wife, Cynthia, who was clearly overcome with emotion. His pager vibrated and he pulled it from his jacket. The text message read, All is well in Ocho Rios. The fat lady has sung.
Joshua smiled, then leaned over and kissed his wife. When he turned back, the minister said, “With the power invested in me, I now pronounce you husband and wife. Craig, you may now salute your bride.”
He smiled as he embraced her.
“I love you, Venice.”
Their kiss was tender and long. Finally the pastor said, “Son, you have time for more of that later. Amen.”
Craig broke the kiss and smiled at his childhood minister.
“Ladies and gentlemen. I present to you Craig and Venice Bennett.”
Everyone stood and applauded as Craig took Venice and Brandon by the hand and proceeded down the aisle. Venice stopped when she reached the Andersons and hugged and kissed each one. Mrs. Anderson and Portia were crying tears of joy. Brandon went over and hugged his grandfather, who picked him up into his arms. Craig and Venice continued out into the reception hall where Nanna and Bernice had church friends set up dinner as well as a wedding cake. The rest of the guests followed for what was to be a night to remember.
Joshua walked over to hug and kiss Venice. He embraced Craig, then showed him the text message on his pager.
Craig asked, “Is it really over, Joshua?”
Joshua patted Craig on the shoulder. “It’s really over and I’ll send you my bill in the mail.”
“I owe you, man. I also owe my assistant, Francine. If she hadn’t told me Katrina saw the itinerary of the wedding in Ocho Rios, we would have never known to change the plans. “
Joshua laughed. “All you owe me is your commitment to take care of Venice and Brandon and I know you’ll do that. As far as your assistant, I’m sure you’ll find a way to compensate her.”
He answered, “You know I will.”
Skeeter came over to embrace Craig. “Man, you did it! I’m so glad I don’t have to look at you walking around looking whipped anymore.”
Craig smiled. “Go ’head on with that, Skeeter. You’ll understand one day.”
“You know I’m just playing. Now, let me go kiss your lovely wife.”
“Don’t make me hurt you, Skeeter.”
Skeeter walked off in search of Venice, ignoring Craig. When he found her, she was tying the sash on little Samantha’s dress.
Skeeter said, “May I please kiss the most beautiful bride I have ever seen in my life?”
“Of course, you may…Mr. Winston Carter III.”
Skeeter gave her a loving kiss.
“You enjoy calling me by my real name, don’t you?”
“I think it’s nice. It fits you Mr. Big Shot Attorney. When you get to Philly, maybe you can slow down.”
Skeeter took her by the hand. “Maybe. Look, Venice, I want to apologize for the way I treated you back in the day. It’s just that…Craig’s my boy and I didn’t want to see him hurt.”
Venice hugged him. “I understand and thank you. Craig couldn’t ask for a better friend. Now! When are wedding bells going to be ringing for you?”
He took her by the hand. “She has to find me. I’m not going to stand here and lie. I have been thinking about settling down, but you know me, Venice. I haven’t been one to be tied down to one woman.”
“Skeeter, darling, that will change as soon as you meet her. More than likely, she will slip up on you. You won’t even see it coming, then boom! You’re in love.”
He burst out laughing. “Yeah, right! I have to give it to you, that was pretty good.”
“Laugh if you want to, Winston Carter, but I’m going to have the last laugh. You’ll see.”
Skeeter laughed even harder.
She kissed him on the cheek. “You are so silly. Now stop laughing and escort me to my husband.”
Nanna walked up, kissed her grandson, and said, “Craig, go get your wife out of Skeeter’s clutches so the minister can bless the food.”
“Okay, Nanna, and thank you and Bernice for all you did.”
“You’re my grandson. I’ll do anything for you.”
Venice was across the room talking with different family members while holding Brandon’s hand. Craig walked up and said, “There you are, Mrs. Bennett. The Reverend is getting ready to bless the food so Nanna sent me to get you.”
“I’m all yours, Bennett.”
Craig took her hand and they walked over to their seats.
Venice’s brother, Galen, was one of Craig’s best friends in college. He was in attendance with his wife, Sidney, and daughter. He hadn’t seen Craig in years and was glad this particular occasion brought them all together again. Craig’s aunts and cousins, as well as some of his closest friends, helped make up the guests. They ate dinner and prepared to enjoy the rest of the evening with music and dance. During their first dance, Craig informed Venice that Katrina would no longer be an issue in their lives. He also decided he would never reveal to her that Joshua made it all possible. Halfway through their dance, Brandon tapped Craig on the arm and asked if he could dance with his mom. Craig smiled and stepped away so Venice could dance with her son. “Ooohs” and “aaaahs” could be heard from the guests.
Venice said, “Brandon, I am so proud of you. You stood by me like the little man I know. Your daddy would be proud of you, too.”
He smiled and looked up at his mom. “I know, Momma. I’m glad you married Pops.”
“Pops? Where did that come from?”
“He told me he didn’t want me calling him Mr. Craig anymore, so he told me to think of something else.”
They continued to dance.
“I see, so that’s the man stuff you guys have been discussing. Do you like calling him Pops?”
“Yes, he likes it, too. I used to hear my daddy call my granddaddy Pops, and I like it.”
Venice bent down, kissed him, and said, “I love you, Brandon. I always have and I always will. I want you to remember that your daddy loved
you so much. Don’t you ever forget that. Okay?”
“I won’t, Momma.”
“Good, now go ask your grandmothers to dance.”
Without an answer, he went and asked Mrs. Anderson to dance first, then Mrs. Taylor. He was his father’s child.
As Venice stood and watched him, Craig embraced her from behind. “Can I have another dance with my beautiful wife?”
She turned into his embrace, kissed him, and said, “Lead the way, handsome.”
Hours later, after tears had been shed, cake had been cut, and pictures taken, the evening came to a close. Craig and Venice sat and talked with Bryan and Craig’s Uncle Victor.
Bryan said, “If I wasn’t here, I wouldn’t have believed it. It’s a miracle you two are together.”
“You got that right. This boy lost weight, and looked like hell when ya’ll broke up,” Victor said.
“If you two don’t mind, I’d rather not talk about that. What’s important is now,” Craig said.
Venice agreed, saying, “You’re right, Babe, and I’m a little tired.”
It was going on eleven o’clock and they knew they were going to be leaving the following day for their honeymoon. That night they were staying at Craig’s house. Venice’s family and the Andersons stayed between Nanna’s and Bernice’s homes.
They said goodnight and headed to the house while the rest stayed back to help clean up. On the drive there, Venice asked, “Are you going to tell me what went down with Katrina?”
“I don’t want to talk about her, especially tonight. My main concern is getting you out of that dress. I remember you challenging me. Something about who was going to have whom screaming on our honeymoon.”
Venice couldn’t believe he remembered their playful conversation, but he had. He also seemed anxious to hold her to the challenge. She laid her head against his shoulder and asked, “Are we there yet?”