by Pat Simmons
Not tonight, not now. He grunted. “Rain check. We have other plans.”
“You two need to go ahead and get married.”
“That’s exactly what I plan to do.” Jesetta was going down—tonight. He and Landon chatted until Rossi made it to his loft. Before showering, he made some calls.
Although they already had dinner plans, Rossi was about to up the stakes. He showered with a different fragrance gel, then shaved with precision. Next, he dressed with the intention of wooing her as she had done him with her appearance earlier. It took a couple of tries, fumbling with his bow tie, but finally he perfected it.
His phone rang at the same time as he lifted his car keys. “Mr. Tolliver, unfortunately, we’re one musician short, but we’re here, set up, and awaiting for your arrival,” the man said.
“I’m sure everything will work out.” Rossi grinned. “I’m on my way.”
Less than seven minutes later, he parked in front of Jet’s house. Across the street, three members of the quartet stood at attention. The catering service his company used for luncheons had set up a table for two with the white linen swaying in the evening wind. A dozen red roses were placed on top between crystal flutes of Sprite and a plate of hors d’oeuvres.
Everything was in place as he began his ascent up her many stairs. After ringing the doorbell, he waited only seconds for her to answer. She was trying to kill him in the dress that draped her well-toned body. The red, brown, or whatever color family was accenting her golden brown skin. It was neither too snug nor loose, but just enough to catch a man’s eye while reaffirming that she was a lady.
The violinist began “Sound of An Angel.” The cellist followed. His senses were on high alert as he caught the intake of Jet’s breath. The music seemed to coax her out the door. Briefly, she glanced at him, then began to glide toward the musicians as he escorted her. A small crowd gathered nearby. Even two motorists stopped to allow them to cross the street.
Once they were at the table, Rossi scooted his chair beside hers instead of facing her. He put his arm around her shoulder, and together they enjoyed the mini concert. When the wind stirred her hair, she resembled an angel in flight. She was so mesmerized by the music that she didn’t utter a word until the musicians touched the last note.
“This is so romantic,” she whispered, then added, “thank you.” Leaning closer, she brushed her soft lips against his cheek, pulled back, and gazed into his eyes with a dreamy expression. “You’re going to ask me to marry you again, aren’t you?”
“Yes.” There was no need for an element of surprise. She knew it was coming. “Do you plan to say yes?”
“Yes,” she answered as the trio played another selection. When she rested her head on his shoulder, Rossi relaxed.
She munched on the treats and gave him bites. If only she knew how powerful her simple gestures were as a tease, maybe she wouldn’t do them. But Rossi liked it, and as long as he could restrain himself, then they both were safe.
When the musicians finished their final selection, the audience applauded. Looking around, he noticed the crowd had enlarged. Plus, their horse-driven carriage had arrived. “It’s time to go,” he whispered.
Standing, he helped her to her feet. The wind stirred again, and her fragrance tickled his nose. Reaching into his pocket he pulled out money for the musicians’ tips. “Stay as long as you want.”
The violinist grinned at the two hundred-dollar bills Rossi placed in his hand. “We’ll give them a few more selections, Mr. Tolliver, then we’ll pack up.”
Some folks clapped and parted a path for their escape to the carriage. As the driver took the scenic route downtown near the riverfront, Jet snuggled closer. “I know you love me,” he whispered, then kissed her head.
“And I know you’ve loved me for a long time and I didn’t know it.”
The plan was for them to ride around downtown for about an hour and chat, but Jet was so quiet. He looked at her and noticed she was dozing or thinking based on her smile. He didn’t disturb her. He smiled too. Rossi wanted them both to cherish their engagement night.
Jet stirred when the carriage came to a stop in front of her house, and he helped her down. Her eyes widened when she saw the limo behind them.
“What’s going on?”
“Aren’t you hungry?” He grinned. “I’m working up an appetite, and I need my strength tonight.”
She lifted an eyebrow, but didn’t say anything as the driver opened the door for them to get inside. “You’re full of surprises, Mr. Tolliver. So where are we going?”
“Fleming’s Steakhouse in Frontenac.” Rossi had it on good authority that it was the most romantic place to propose. This time, Jet was chatty about her job, church, and Dori. Every few minutes, he would comment, but he was content to hear her voice, watch her expressions, and admire her beauty.
By the time they arrived at Fleming’s, both their stomachs were growling. They were greeted and seated immediately. Keeping a possessive hand on her back, Rossi felt like he was escorting a beauty contestant from the quick glances some men were giving them, in spite of their dining companions.
Once they placed their orders, Rossi reached across the table and took her hands. Looking into her watery eyes, he saw happiness, excitement, and a glimpse of sadness. He squeezed them and brought them to his lips. “My parents have been married for forty-two years, I’ve officiated more than six weddings. Each time I’ve asked God, when will it be my turn? I’ve waited for years, looking for the right person. Then one day, God led my heart to you.”
A tear fell, and he touched her face to wipe away another that splashed on his thumb. “Jesetta, when you weren’t ignoring me, we got along as friends. We’ve acted like siblings when you would allow me to give you brotherly advice. Now it’s time to let me love you as your husband who will never have any regrets for asking you to be my wife.”
Taking a deep breath, he stood, then knelt before her. He pulled out her ring box from his pocket and opened it. “Will you do me the honor of being my girlfriend, my lady love, and my wife?”
She was bawling by the time she mumbled yes. He slipped on the ring, then kissed her hand. God, help me to be sensitive to her needs and always make her happy, he silently prayed as he took his seat. While she fumbled in her purse, a woman next to them handed him tissues and congratulated them.
“Thank you,” he said, then reached over to dab the moisture off Jet’s cheeks before handing the tissues to her.
More congratulations circulated around them. Conversations dulled and their surroundings blurred as Rossi focused on his beloved. One thing he couldn’t understand was the sadness in her eyes that didn’t go away. “What’s wrong, babe?” he asked as he finished his meal.
She shrugged. “I’m fine.”
“On the outside, I couldn’t agree more, but what’s hurting you on the inside?” His question seemed to take her by surprise.
“Nothing.” She mustered a smile, but he still wasn’t buying it.
“If I’m willing to give you my heart, let me share yours.”
“Missing my parents, Diane...” She sniffed, and he thought she was about to cry all over again. Lord, please don’t let her.
Tend to hers needs, He whispered back.
“I always imagined sharing my news with them. I remember seeing the look of awe on Diane’s face when she admitted she had said yes to Levi’s proposal. I wonder if I’m wearing that same glow because of loving you.” She choked and Rossi moved his chair beside her and gathered her in his arms. He didn’t care that they were the center of attention for the second time within hours. As a matter of fact, he and Jet were surrounded by chaperones.
When she whimpered, he pulled back and lifted her chin. “You can always tell me when you’re hurting, and I’ll hold you and we’ll pray through it, okay?”
She nodded. Jet didn’t cry anymore as they shared dessert, but she was quiet. They needed some privacy, so he paid the tab, leaving a tip for the chef,
then stepped outside of the restaurant where the limousine was waiting.
Inside, she relaxed against his chest after he instructed the driver to take a long scenic route back into the city. He loved the smell of her hair and began to toy with a few strands. “Will you marry me tomorrow?” he teased.
She whipped her head around. “Of course not!”
“Babe, I can’t do the whole year planning thing. I’ve been wanting to marry you since the day you were baptized and God presented my bride to me.”
“Well, in that case, I’d better call Layla. She’ll be my maid of honor. Of course, Dori will be our flower girl… Do you think Levi and Karyn will mind Little Levi being our ring bearer?”
“Nope.” He grinned. “So how long does your fiancé have to wait for our honeymoon?”
She twisted her lips. “Six-month minimum. I just started a new job.”
“I was going to negotiate two months until you mentioned the job.”
Arriving back at her place, Rossi escorted her to the door. He watched as Jet turned around and squinted in the direction of the park where the musicians had set the mood for a memorable night.
“Every time I open my door I will always remember this day—always.” She smiled.
He took a series of deep breaths when she stared into his eyes. The moonlight captured the seduction that she probably didn’t know she possessed. Rossi stepped back. “Call me, not only tonight, but whenever you’re sad, hurting, or want someone to listen to a corny joke.”
She lightly tapped his shoulder. “Hey, I have a good sense of humor.” She paused. “Thank you for understanding how much I loved Diane. It doesn’t take away from how much I love you.” She wrapped her arms around his waist, and he trapped her in an embrace. When she looked up, he refused to indulge in a kiss, so he pulled back. “Four months. I’ll buy a couple of franchises if I have to bribe your boss.”
Chapter 28
Jet woke the next morning, stretched, and wiggled her fingers, admiring her engagement ring. Fairytales do come true. She smiled as last night’s events flooded her mind. Yes, she guessed she would always mourn her loss, Diane especially, but through Jesus, she had gained a good godly man. The Holy Ghost fell on her Spirit, she slid to her knees, and began to speak in an unknown language.
He’ll take care of you, God spoke as she whispered her Amen.
In her pajamas, she raced downstairs to the front door and opened it. It was early, and only a few joggers and dog walkers were out, but through that reality, her mind replayed the most romantic scene that took place practically in front of her doorstep.
She went back to her bedroom and called Layla. Her friend sounded zoned out, but that didn’t stop Jet from screaming, “I’m engaged.”
“’Bout time. Took you long enough. Congratulations. Now I’m going back to sleep to find my prince in my dreams.”
“Fairytales do come true,” she sang, then added, “with God all things are possible.” Jet said her goodbyes, then returned upstairs to shower and dress. She couldn’t sleep another minute. She was too hyped.
Rossi called not even an hour later while she was cooking omelets. Jet not only knew better, but had a better understanding of why inviting him wasn’t a good idea. After last night, their hormones were too heightened for temptation.
“How’s my beautiful fiancée this morning?” His husky voice seemed even sexier.
Staring at her engagement ring, she exhaled. “Incredibly happy, but hungry. I was about to eat, then call you afterward.”
“I’m a happy man this morning too. I love you so much.”
Her heart warmed, hearing him adding the “so much” part. “I love you too.”
“I know you want to get started planning for our wedding in three months—”
She gasped and laughed. “We agreed on four months. Keep it up, Minister Rossi, and I’ll make you wait three years.”
“Jesetta Hutchens, stop teasing.” He paused. “There’s somewhere I want you to go with me today.”
“Okay.” She paused to say grace, then took a bite. “Where?”
“You’ll see. Pick you up in thirty minutes.” He disconnected, then seconds later, texted her:
Forgot to say I love you.
She texted back,No you didn’t. You’ve been saying it for years. It’s only now I’m hearing it.
The man was prompt. Jet had to give Rossi that when he rang her doorbell exactly a half hour later.
“Where are we going?” she asked once she snapped her seatbelt. Rossi frowned and twisted his lips, but said nothing. That made her worry. “Is everything okay?”
He turned and winked. “Absolutely.”
Where was he taking her? Wedding shopping already? But there were no shops, malls, or bakeries in the direction he was traveling on Lucas and Hunt Road. Then it dawned on her that they were headed toward St. Peter’s Cemetery.
She had avoided this area of town to resist the temptations to stop and have some tranquil moments recalling memories with Diane. Her heart pounded in her throat when Rossi turned into the entrance and down the narrow road that would take them to Section 25, Block D, Lot 4 and Plot 6 to Diane Hutchens Tolliver’s resting place—correction—her remains. Didn’t he know this had been her hangout and she was trying to wean herself?
“What–what are we doing here?” she asked when he parked.
He shut the engine off and faced her. She couldn’t read his expression. Without a word, he got out and came around to open her door.
“Baby.” He reached for her hand, and in almost a trance, she took it and stepped out.
She swallowed as Rossi wrapped his strong arm around her waist. They stopped in front of the tombstone. Jet resisted the urge to kneel and sweep off the dried leaves that rested on the grave. She looked at Rossi for answers, but he only stared at Diane’s headstone.
“Lord Jesus, up in heaven, Hallelujah be Your name. We stand here today, talking to You for we know Diane’s soul rests with You. I have a message.” He squeezed Jet’s hand and smiled. “Tell Diane, I’ll take care of her sister. Tell her thank you for sending Jet my way…”
Jet began to bawl, and Rossi held her in his arms. His embrace was comforting and secure. She had picked the right man to fall in love with.
***
Wednesday morning, Rossi strolled into the office humming the song he’d heard on the radio. He passed Levi in the hall, and they exchanged a fist bump as a greeting. Since they had come to an understanding, the Lord had blessed their company with a new contract worth $1.7 million. They would hire local skilled workers and train others in an apprenticeship at a lower pay scale. That also meant more commerce for local businesses.
“My cousin’s engaged?” Levi chuckled. “I still can’t believe you asked Jet and she said yes. That’s a match made in heaven I never saw coming.”
Rossi laughed too and leaned against the door frame outside Levi’s office. “Me either when we first met, but God planted a Jesetta Hutchens seed in my heart, and when it was time to sprout, it did.” He grinned. “I’m happy.”
He continued down the hall to his own office. Minutes later, he got a phone call that made him unhappy. Halo’s application for the APA franchise was rejected. Rossi’s heart dropped as he tried to lift his friend’s spirits.
“I got the thanks, but no thanks letter today.” Halo paused. “Buttercup and I had so many plans. Just like a black man will always wonder if they don’t get a job, promotion, or loans because of the color of our skin, I always wonder if my felony background will always close doors of opportunity for me.”
“We’ll figure it out. Halo’s House is a done deal. Let me give Jet a call and tell her.”
“I’m sure she already knows,” Halo said dryly before ending the call.
Rossi paused. Did she know and didn’t tell him? Nope, the seed the devil was teasing Halo with, Rossi refused to buy. He called his fiancée. “I just got off the phone with Halo. His franchise application got denied.”
Jet gasped. “Oh no! I’m so sorry to hear that. How is he?”
“Devastated.” Lord, please turn his tears of sorrow into tears of joy.
“I hope he doesn’t think I had something to do with it. I don’t process those applications. APA is real strict on their franchises. They’re all about protecting their brand and work very closely with league operators to keep a clean image. Maybe he didn’t get past his background check. What can we do to help him?”
“Pray, babe.”
“I can do that. Please let him know I had nothing to do with their decision, and I want to see him blessed.”
“Amen,” he said. “I will. See you when I pick you up for church.”
Walking out of his office, he found Levi and gave him the bad news. Once his cousin got over the shock, they began to brainstorm about other options to bless Halo and Buttercup. “That would have been a good investment. Other franchises probably had the same requirements. Let’s pray and see what God’s game plan is.”
“Agreed.” So for the remainder of the day, he prayed, and before leaving work, he called Halo to check up on him and deliver Jet’s message. “She really is sorry.”
“Thanks.”
That evening while waiting for Jet to get home from work, he reviewed his notes for the youth Bible lesson he was teaching. Luke 10:25–37. As he was about to check the time, his phone vibrated from a text.
Just getting home. Give me 15 mins.
Rossi exhaled, glad that he and Jet wouldn’t be late. He grinned.I’ll see you in 17.
While en route to church, they discussed Halo’s situation. “Levi and I thought about Chaz. This might be the only thing to keep my brother’s interest in the business world. Otherwise, he may be in school forever.”
Jet laughed. “He did seem pretty fascinated that I worked for the association, and plays like a pro.”
They arrived at church with less than five minutes to spare. They veered right to the chapel where the youth were waiting for their service to begin.
They entered, and all eyes were on them. It felt good that he could now call Jet his fiancée. Once she chose where she wanted to sit, he joined her on his knees for them to say a prayer of thanks before he took his post on the front row or in the pulpit.