by Zi'ere
Angel jerked out of reach and scrambled for the door as Darrell suddenly lunged at her.
“Darrell Haywood! Control your temper!”
Daddy would not stand back and allow anything physical to take place between a woman and a man. However, I really felt like he would have allowed me to kick Angel’s ass all day! We could hear Angel screaming through the house attempting to round up her kids who were in return screaming that they were not ready to leave yet. We all remained in the sitting room listening to the drama unfold. We did not resume conversation until Charles the butler came to announce that Angel was off the property. Darrell grabbed my arm and guided me to a high back armed chair. I literally had nothing left for Angel, she had violated in the worst ways.
“Baby Steph, look around you. God gave you 2 new sisters to replace the one you just lost! Everything is not all bad, Baby. Hold your head high young lady.”
“Yes, mama I will.”
“I love you Baby”
“I love you too mama”
“We still have to meet new family members, are you ready?”
In an instant Mama had lifted the anger in the room for the time being.
Mama addressed John who was standing beside his Jessica Rabbit looking blond bride. She had a bright smile towards the woman but with a scowl towards John.
“I could go up side your head for hiding my new daughter-in-law….. for how long has it been John?
“It’s only been a week mom”
“So you mean to tell me she was home alone while we traveled to another state & lost your sister yesterday?”
“No ma’am! Samantha’s flight just came in this morning. Tonight will be our first night living in our home as husband and wife.” John beamed with pride.
“Excuse my bluntness Samantha, I usually have more couth but my children have attacked all my good nerves in the last 24 hours; you are not pregnant already are you?”
“Mrs. Haywood, John has explained to me all of the events leading up to this special fireworks display I have been invited to, so I understand the situation. But no ma’am I am not pregnant.”
“For now any way!” My mom added.
Samantha giggled, “yes ma’am, as of right now I’m not pregnant.”
26
Doris appeared in the doorway and announced the meal was ready to be served. We all filed into the formal dining room with a spread laid out fit for a king and queen’s luncheon. As soon as we were paired off, Charles reappeared stating we had two more guests to arrive. As Charles moved aside two chocolate, life-sized Barbie dolls appeared with obvious grace that could only be obtained from old money.
“Oh my heavens, I forgot I invited the Barton girls over for dinner! Everybody this is Emani in the black and that is Amina in the brown. Emani have a seat next to my son Darrell Haywood and Amina have a seat next to Carlos Haywood my middle son.” Mom’s recited speech sounded so genuine.
My dad’s eyes lit in amusement as it was very obvious both of his sons were taken aback by the beautiful Barton women.
“Ladies, this is my daughter Stephanie Haywood but we all call her Baby or Baby Steph and her fiancé Cedric Goldman. This is my baby boy John Haywood and his wife Samantha. Next is my eldest son Terrell and his fiancé Simone who is expecting our first official grandchild. Of course you ladies know my sweetheart Greg Haywood.”
“Wow-“ both twins stared to speak, we all laughed. “You have a budding family on your hands Mrs. Haywood!” Amina spoke up.
“Oh please, that is the last time I want to hear Mrs. Haywood. It’s Mom, Mama, Mother, or Mama Anna- that includes everybody I didn’t give birth to!”
“Yes ma’am” all the newcomers agreed.
“Mom did you say Barton twins, as in the Barton Agency?” I couldn’t contain my speculation.
“Yes Baby, one in the same.”
These women were the epitome of beauty and brains with big bank to stand on. With so many competitive business powerhouses sitting at the table I could only imagine the rise of African American influence in our fields. We were all featured in Essence magazine’s most influential and wealthiest bachelors and bachelorette’s. Out of all the blind dates Mama had set up, it appeared this time she’d struck gold.
27
Sitting back in my chair, I wiped the corner of my mouth, and returned my napkin to my lap. I felt so at ease in the moment. I felt like the picture that was enclosing me would be the first of many in our new family album. I looked around the room, taking note of every detail. My eyes shot straight ahead to the floor to ceiling window that gave a breathtaking few of Arizona’s rural side. A single potted palm tree sat at each side of the window. The sunlight streaming into the bright yellow padded chairs with cognac mahogany finish gave the room such regal elegance. Behind me, nestled against the wall was the royale china & buffet on the adjacent wall was the matching royale sideboard & mirror. On the far wall sat a royale curio. I took in the décor of the table-clothed circular table with fresh flower and candle centerpiece. Beautiful china matched with crystal glasses were always used in my parent’s home. Water goblets, wine glasses, saucers, soup bowls, dinner chargers, linen napkins, and six- piece real silverware per setting were also the norm. The furniture alone screamed wealthy comfort.
My eyes scanned each of the beautiful faces surrounding the table. Those that looked alike also looked really well with those who’d just met today. All twelve individuals were dressed in their Sunday best and nothing less. The twelve of us amounted to a combination of the genetically gifted, education, power, prestige, class, and elegance. Even though I was spaced out for a second, I couldn’t help but realize how calm the conversation tone was. Chatter, as if to be between old friends was intriguing and respectful. There was no competition in the air, everyone seated here today deserved to be here.
“Baby, are you feeling okay?” Ced attempted to whisper in my ear but when I looked up to catch his eyes I noticed everyone else staring at me intently.
“I’m fine; I was just lost in thought for a moment.” I supplied a generous smile to the table.
“Baby, why don’t you stay here at the big house for a few days until all of that outside commotion has been resolved properly? I know your mother and I would not be able to rest with such a vindictive woman tearing through the city.” My father reached for my mother’s hand as he spoke.
“Daddy, I’m sure I will be fine. There’s no need to be concerned, I know Angel knows better than to try me.”
“Baby Steph, we agree with dad.” Darrell was the first to speak up.
I looked at Terrell wondering why he wasn’t the first to speak. Next my gaze settled on Ced.
“The big house or my house, are your only two options; end of discussion.” Ced was slowly turning into daddy number six and I really didn’t know how I felt about it at the moment.
“Okay, okay, okay- I will stay here.” I noticed a hint in disappointment in Ced’s eyes.
I reached for his hand and gave it a squeeze. I knew the conversation I would have to endure and I wasn’t sure how Ced would react. Being thrown into instant mommy mode was terrifying to me. Everything was happening so fast. I had yet to be introduced to my soon to be step kids. There was no way I could go home with them tonight. My mother gave me a knowing smile and reassured me everything would be fine, I could feel it in her look.
“If I know my friend, I know that she must be feeling pretty overwhelmed right now. I remember when we pledged, honestly I think the only reason she went through with it all was because I wouldn’t shut up about it.” Simone attempted to lighten the mood.
She made me smile with that memory. I was taken down memory lane at the thought of all of a sudden having seventy sisters at one time was overwhelming. I couldn’t stomach sharing the spotlight or taking on any type of uniform at first. I was truly used to hanging with the boys and I had no desire to change that fact. She went on and on about pledging from the time she introduced herself until the initiation ceremony where both o
f us became sisters for life.
Simone continued, “yesterday it was only Baby having all the attention of these charming men, just like normal; today she’s gotten four new women thrust into her life. I know it has to be a bit much.”
“You’re right Simone, I am feeling a bit overwhelmed. But, the five of us have had many conversations about moving on to the next phase of adult life. Of course I knew that one day my men would welcome beautiful, intelligent women into their lives and it would forever change the dynamics of our relationship.” I tried to remain strong, but thirty years of being spoiled doesn’t just go away in a couple hours.
“Baby, we talked about this but we also talked about how things would not change no matter what. The only difference is that we will need more than one car to travel!” Terrell spoke, trying to uplift my mood. “Or better yet, just think your gifts have doubled in quantity!”
“You know what, now that you put it like that- I can see the silver lining in this situation!” I stood to my feet and reached across the table to give Terrell a high five.
“I knew that was going to pull her back into reality. Just a mention of a gift and she’s game for anything!” Daddy kept the banter going.
“Seriously, I don’t want any ill feelings between any of us. I feel really good about the energy in the room right now and I’m sure we all will get along fine. Maybe now these men will stay out of all my business, no offense- of course I’m not talking about you daddy.” I shot a wink to my dad as I was talking.
“Don’t worry, sweetheart. Cedric is my new best friend; you will still see me quite often. I will be all up in both of you all’s business.” Daddy raised his glass to toast his words.
There was the sound of someone whistling to express mercy on Ced, followed by chuckles and giggles from everyone except Ced.
“Seriously, I don’t want any ill feelings between any of us. I too feel really good about the energy in the room right now and I’m sure we will all get along fine.” Ced’s recital of my words made the table erupt in full blown laughter.
I had to wipe the tears from my eyes. There was no way Ced could get rid of his new shadow, Greg Haywood.
Why don’t we take some time and get to know each other better?” Simone suggested.
“Oh, that’s a great idea!” Samantha co-signed.
“Simone, Samantha- will it just be the three of you? Amina & Emani might as well get on this ‘get to know each other better train’ as well. There’s no sense in starting from scratch in few months.” My mother was truly on a roll today and she was betting big!
I looked across to the table expecting so see the twins with shocked expressions, but they were intently waiting on an answer. I breathed a sigh of relief, yes this was truly happening; the circle was complete.
“No mom, I think us girls will be traveling in a pack of six for now on.” Every Haywood man seated at the table had a smile, the same smile to be exact.
“Well, that’s law and we’re sticking to it!” Samantha exclaimed, clapping her hands. “The official first all-girl date will be tomorrow for lunch, my treat.”
The women set definitive plans for the lunch date while the men sat back and absorbed the beautiful energy being created around them. Soon after, the table was cleared and we all were once again seated in the sitting room. Darrell brought all mindless chatter to a stop, announcing his needed to start preparing for the work week ahead. Not realizing how much time had passed as we caught up like old friends, general laziness after a good meal set in. Contact information, which included office and cell numbers were exchanged. In a matter of thirty minutes only two couples remained at the big house: my parents and Ced and I.
28
I took Ced by the hand and led him into my bedroom. After I changed into shorts and a t-shirt we both took a seat on the bench nestled into the bay window. I could only stare into his eyes for the longest time, afraid to say anything. It was as if he could sense my worries. He kissed me tenderly on the forehead, moving down to my nose, and then both my cheeks. He took me into his arms and gave me a big squeeze. A chill swept over my body that I felt all the way down to my baby toes. I inhaled his sweet, masculine scent then exhaled doubt out of my head.
“Baby, I understand. I won’t pressure you and I’m certainly not going to rush you. This is meant to be, so that means it will stand the test of time. I’m not going anywhere. We will take things slow and let the feelings develop naturally. I have total faith in you. I will be by your side during it all. I have unending faith in you.”
I could only continue to stare deep into Ced’s eyes. What had I done to deserve so many dedicated men in my life? Most women only had one, if they were lucky. I’d gone my entire life with a minimum of five. Now, the sixth sat beside me with the same dedication, strength, and love I had knew all too well.
“The feelings are there already. I love you, there is no way I couldn’t love your children just as much. I’m afraid of failing. I don’t want to fail you or them. I want to give them everything they need. I don’t even know how they feel about their dad being with a woman other than their mother.”
“They are ready for you to complete our family. They know that there is only one woman for me and her name is Stephanie Haywood. They also know that you don’t have any kids of your own, but they are just as excited about this transition as I am. All they want is for me to be happy, receiving the love I deserve. Only you can do that for me Step.”
I blinked my eyes and one tear leaked from the right socket. Ced immediately kissed it away and took me into his arms once again. I kissed his neck.
“I love you”
“I love you more, baby”
“Can I meet my kids?”
Ced smiled and jumped to his feet. He sprinted to the nightstand and dialed the house phone to connect with Doris’ extension.
“Yes, Ms. Doris; can you bring the kids in here please?”
I went to the door to await the new loves of my life. My heart began to pound as the children began to walk towards me. I couldn’t contain my tears as I looked into CJ’s face, at thirteen he was a mirror image of his father no doubt. CJ and I met eye to eye. He was dressed as if he was about to start a Miami Heat basketball game in the next ten minutes. Official NBA sweat suit, t-shirt, and signature Air Jordan’s on his feet. Chloe’ and Chyna were two walking dolls. Chloe’, ten was already a diva in training I could tell. Her jet black hair hung to the middle of her back in a single ponytail. She looked so cute dressed in a graffiti tank top, tutu, matching tights, and bedazzled high top sneakers. I couldn’t help but notice the miniature Gucci book-bag strapped to her back. At three, Chyna was an evident daddy’s girl. Her outfit looked virginal compared to Chloe’s. She was dressed conservatively in a Sunday dress, lace trimmed church socks, and leather Keds. Her hair was in three pigtails, matching ribbons with chin length curls flowing from each ponytail. Chyna clutched a plush tan teddy bear.
“Hello, my name is Stephanie”
“Hi, Stephanie. I am Cedric Goldman, Jr but everyone calls me CJ. These are my sisters Chloe’ and Chyna Goldman.”
Twenty first century children with manners; I fell hook, line, and sinker in that instant.
“You are all so charming and beautiful. I am so lucky to have the chance to get to know you all.
“Daddy, is she ‘the’ Stephanie Haywood?”
I couldn’t help but giggle.
“Yes sweetheart, one in the same.” Ced beamed in pride.
“Stephanie, I’m sleepy.” Chyna walked right up to me as if she was uninterested in the introductions, she had bigger matters to address.
“Ok baby, let me rock you to sleep”
“You know that can be completed at my house right?” Ced whispered in my ear.
“Hush”
I knelt down to scoop Chyna into my arms, leading everyone else out of the door way and into my room. I sat down on the side of the bed, back against the headboard, and began to gently rock my new toddle
r to sleep.
“Would you guys like to watch tv?”
“Can I watch the football game?” The two Ceds spoke in unison.
“Yes, you can. I you know I am a fan as well!”
CJ walked over to the bench and grabbed the throw blanket and made himself comfortable at the foot of my bed on the floor.
“Can I see your closet Stephanie? I love fashion, I live for fashion, and if I’m right about you- I think you do too! I promise I won’t break anything- I want to see what you’ve got.” Chyna spoke as if she were thirty instead of ten.
I was really impressed by the obvious great parenting that had been done with the children.
“Sweetheart, you can see my closet. I completely trust you to handle the items with care. But, I must confess that this is not my home. This is my parent’s home and this is the bedroom I grew up in. I have a few things here but the good stuff is at my house, inside my closet.”
“Oh, ok. If this is your parent’s home, I can’t wait to see your house. Your dad seems a lot like my dad- there is no limit to what he would do for one of his kids.”
“You’re right Chloe’. That makes you and Chyna lucky girls!”
She walked into the bathroom in search of the closet.
“Yes, yes, yes! This is what I’m talking about! Finally someone who can understand what I’m doing with my clothing!”
Ced lowered his head in shame. Chloe’ was so full of life and I could tell she had an old soul. It seemed as if I was listening to a long-time friend, instead of a ten year old. She continued to ramble on about everything as if she and I were the only two in the room. She told me about the upcoming father-daughter dance and asked if I would be able to help her prepare for it. There was no hesitation in my response of “of course I can sweetheart.” We remained behind the closed door of my bedroom talking and watching the game.
A few hours later Chyna woke from her nap. Ced decided to take the kids home so that they could get ready for the school week. I gave CJ a hug and the girls hugs and kisses before I walked them out. A bond had definitely been formed between the five of us and I really felt as if everything was going to be okay. When we made it to the truck CJ invited me to his football on Tuesday. There was no hesitation in my voice in accepting his offer. Ced gave me a smile of encouragement. After everyone was seated and strapped in their seatbelts Ced drove down the winding driveway off the property, I stood and watched until the truck was out of sight.
