Page 56 of Breeze and Melodie

“Unpopular opinion here . . . She kinda has a right to be mad. You and Breeze played in that woman’s face for months,” Mari pointed out.

“I was thinking the same thing,” Yvonne agreed.

“I didn’t play in her face. That was all Breeze. Ain’t no way I’d still be in my feelings about a man who left me for another woman. She should be over him by now.”

Our first few customers arrived, which forced us to end the conversation. Although most of our clients felt comfortable sharing all their business with us, we chose not to do the same and kept it mostly professional.

It was a little after six o’clock in the morning, and Breeze and I were on our way to surprise my parents. The ride was only two and a half hours, so we’d get there right on time for breakfast.

“Are you nervous?” Breeze asked.

“Not nervous . . . Anxious might be a better word.

“What about?”

“I couldn’t come up with a creative way to tell my family about the babies.”

“Just tell them.”

“I wanted to do something special but couldn’t come up with anything unique. Since it’s my mother’s birthday weekend, I ordered a cake from her favorite bakery. Instead of saying happy birthday, I had them put a picture of the ultrasound and the words ‘Twice the blessing.’”

“What’s wrong with that idea? It sounds good to me.”

“Nothing, it’s just not as creative as I wanted.”

“I’m sure she’ll love it and be too surprised and happy to care about anything except the fact that we’re giving them two grandchildren at once.”

“True.”

“Is something else bothering you?”

“No.”

“I don’t believe you. Talk to me, baby.”

I sighed. “I’m worried about the fallout after they hear Harmonee’s plans.”

“Harmonee is a grown-ass woman. She’s had some struggles but has been on the right track for years. It’s time for your parents to loosen the reins.”

“I agree. I just hope we can get our parents to see that.”

“I ain’t trying to start no shit with your family, but as I said, Harmonee is grown. She doesn’t need their permission to move out.”

“True, but it’ll be a lot easier if they’re on board.”

“I think you’re worrying too much, and your parents will surprise you. Everything will work out. Maybe a nap will help you calm your nerves.”

“Good idea.”

It didn’t take me long to fall asleep, and when I woke up, we were parked in front of my parents’ house.

“How was your nap?”

“Amazing, but it doesn’t seem like I was asleep for that long.”

“You must have been tired because you were snoring and drooling.”

“Shut up! You know I don’t snore or drool,” I denied as I wiped my mouth.

---