All That and a Bag of Chips

by Darrien Lee

  Venice’s eyes overflowed with tears. “Thank you, baby. I needed to hear that.”

  “Baby, I have faith in what we have. There’s no doubt in my mind that you’ll be my wife. I love you more that anything. Just trust me.”

  “I do trust you, sweetheart, and there’s nothing more I want in this world than to be your wife. I have no problem marrying you right here tonight.”

  “Venice, I’d love to take you up on your offer, but we need to get you well first. I don’t want you to say that you married me under the influence of medication.”

  “I’m sorry I didn’t get a chance to tell you about the baby. I just wasn’t sure.”

  “Stop apologizing and get some rest. I’m going to stay with you, all right?”

  She nodded in agreement and he gave her one last kiss and said, “Well, I’d better let the rest of the family have a chance to come check on you. I’ll be right outside, okay?”

  “Okay.”

  One by one, each family member came in to see how she was doing. Craig and Bernice were the last ones to come in. After Bernice checked the medical equipment and gave Venice a kiss, she allowed Craig and Venice to have some privacy.

  He looked at her and asked, “Did I cause this?”

  She reached for his hand and motioned for him to sit on the bed. “Of course not. It was nobody’s fault but mine. I should’ve gone to the doctor when I couldn’t shake that headache weeks ago.”

  Craig hesitated because he didn’t want to upset her. “Was that my baby you were carrying?”

  “We used protection, remember?”

  Craig sat down and held Venice’s hand tightly. “Well, Venice, the last time we were together, it didn’t hold up. But all that is meaningless now.”

  Venice was stunned, then turned and said, “I’m sorry to put all of you through this drama. It also looks like the wedding is off for now.”

  Craig wanted to scream words of joy, but felt like he shouldn’t. He asked, “Have you told Jarvis yet?”

  “He was the one who suggested that we probably should wait and he apologized for pressuring me. Anyway, why don’t you go on to the reception and get something to eat?”

  “I really don’t want to leave you, especially now, but I know you and Jarvis need some time alone right now.” Venice smiled as Craig brushed her tangled curls from her face. “Taylor, I love you.” He then leaned down and kissed her as hard as he could. Before leaving the room, he said, “If you need me, just call.”

  “I will and, for the record…I love you, too.”

  After Venice got out the hospital, it was Sinclair who made sure that all the guests were sent special cards of thanks with their returned gifts. Jarvis returned to school in Michigan and Venice returned to her life at Dawson University. Craig and Venice were hanging out again. Meanwhile, Venice and Jarvis decided they should not discuss marriage again until after graduation. Things basically went back to normal. They all decided not to put any demands on each other and just to let things flow. Venice did not commit to either one of them to the full extent. At the moment, all were in agreement and felt that they would live with this arrangement, especially after what they’d all just endured. Life was too short.

  Forty-Nine

  Knock, knock, knock. The loud noise startled Venice. She had to collect her thoughts and finally realized that she had fallen asleep. She looked at herself and noticed her wedding dress hanging up. She finally realized she had been dreaming. But how much of it was a dream? She couldn’t tell.

  Again, there was a knock on the door. Venice, still somewhat delirious, said, “Come in!”

  “Baby, it’s almost time and you don’t even have your dress on.”

  “Daddy, I fell asleep. Just give me a minute.”

  Mr. Taylor had come for her. He hadn’t seen her in her dress and when he finally saw her in all her glory, tears welled up in his eyes.

  Venice was still a little fuzzy and confused when she said, “Daddy, don’t get me started. You’re going to make me ruin my makeup.”

  He grabbed her and gave her a big kiss. “Baby, you look beautiful!”

  “Thank you, Daddy.”

  “Are you okay? You look a little dazed.”

  “I’m fine. I had a weird dream, but I guess I’m okay.”

  “Jarvis is a nice young man, Venice. I trust him with you. But if you feel in any way that you want to call this off, just say the word. Your mother and I will stand by you because we recognize that you have feelings for Craig…”

  Venice kissed her dad on the cheek and said, “Thanks, Daddy, but I’m fine. Let’s go. Jarvis is waiting on me.”

  He smiled and led her into the hallway.

  Venice hadn’t been able to figure out if Craig really came to her or whether it was in her dream.

  They made it to the church doors where Venice took a series of deep breaths, praying the sickness wouldn’t return. She was still baffled about her dream. The music began to play and when the doors swung open, the first face she saw was Craig’s. He was sitting near the back with Bernice and J.T. When she saw him, she almost lost it. He had on the exact same clothes he had on in her dream and he looked wonderful as expected. Venice almost stopped in her tracks. When she passed him, she read his lips, which said, “I love you.” Venice smiled at him as she walked on down the aisle. She then turned and looked toward Jarvis who waiting for her at the end of the long aisle. He was smiling and visibly misty-eyed. When she finally made it to the altar, she could hear sniffles from people all around her. She didn’t want to turn around to see who was crying for she was afraid she would start crying herself.

  The ceremony went on as planned. Venice didn’t know whether Jarvis realized Craig was in the audience or not. Her heart started pounding when the minister got to the part stating, “If anyone here can show just cause why these two people should not be married, speak now or forever hold your peace.” That’s when Venice nearly fainted. A part of her wanted Craig to speak up and proclaim his love for her. A part of her didn’t want him to.

  Jarvis felt her trembling and gave her hand a comforting squeeze. Bernice looked over at Craig, who had his head down and eyes closed. She reached over and held her brother’s hand. Bernice knew his heart was breaking at that very moment and there was nothing she could do to help him besides holding his hand. He finally stood up and left the sanctuary.

  Venice felt like Pastor Greene paused just a little too long at that particular part of the ceremony. Once they got past it, Venice felt a little disappointed, yet relieved. She really believed Craig would stand up and proclaim his love. She still was a little troubled about her dream. Could it have been a premonition?

  Pastor Green finally got to the end where Venice and Jarvis were pronounced man and wife. He kissed his new bride and they exited the church.

  The photographer took the rest of the wedding party pictures. A few people stayed behind to watch. Bryan had a limousine out front to take the happy couple to the reception. Jarvis asked the driver to take the long way.

  As they rode around the city, Jarvis said, “Niecy, when you came down that aisle, I thought I was going to pass out. You looked like an angel. You’re so beautiful!”

  Venice snuggled against his neck and replied, “Thank you, baby. You’re looking fine yourself.”

  He held her in his arms and asked, “Did you see Craig?”

  “Yes, I saw them.”

  “Are you cool with him being here?”

  “I invited him, remember? You’re still okay with it, aren’t you?”

  “I’m fine. I have everything I need right here.”

  He lowered his mouth to her lips and gave her a deep, demanding kiss.

  Venice enjoyed his embrace and kisses for the rest of the ride.

  When they reached the reception hall, Venice was amazed at the results of Sinclair’s hard work. The room erupted in applause as they entered. They went through all the formalities for the photographer. Crimson ran over to Venice and ga
ve her a hug. She really did look like a little princess.

  Sinclair came over and Venice gave her a big hug and a kiss and said, “Thank you, Sinclair! Everything is beautiful! I love you.”

  Sinclair teared up and said, “You’re welcome, Venice. I love you, too.”

  After finishing all the pictures, Venice and Jarvis danced their first dance. As they danced, Jarvis couldn’t help but confess his love for her over and over. They affectionately kissed each other throughout the song. Venice also confirmed how much she loved him into his ear. She finally felt contentment and peace.

  The reception was going along fine when Venice asked Jarvis if he would object to her dancing with Craig. He told her it was fine by him and Venice started scanning the crowd.

  She found him coming out of the bathroom. “How about a dance, mister?”

  He grinned at her and said, “You look unbelievable. Did you get the flowers?” She grabbed his hand. “I sure did. Now come dance with me.”

  She pulled him onto the dance floor and Jarvis was no longer worried. He had finally married the love of his life.

  Craig held Venice in his arms and confessed, “I almost stopped your wedding today. I just couldn’t do it.”

  “I love him, Craig. I tried to dismiss it when I came to Dawson, but it was too strong. I had to face the fact that it wasn’t going away. I never meant to hurt you and my love for you is just as clear and permanent in my heart. I don’t ever want to lose you.”

  “I’m never going to get over you, girl. I guess under different circumstances, you would have been mine.”

  “Without a doubt.”

  “Taylor…I mean Anderson…”

  “Venice will do, Mr. Bennett.”

  “Sweetheart, I would love nothing more than to have you in my life in whatever way I can. My broken heart will eventually heal, I hope. I guess if you hadn’t fell in love with me, it would have been some other poor soul.”

  “Craig, I’m glad it was you. I’ll always love you, baby.”

  “I love you, too.”

  The song ended and she gave him a tender kiss on the lips. “Save me another dance.”

  Craig slowly let her hand slide out of his and said, “You bet.”

  After their dance, Venice made her way back over to Jarvis and attempted to eat her food. She was afraid to eat because she didn’t want to get sick. Jarvis convinced her to at least try the fruit. She did and it didn’t upset her stomach. They finished up with the ceremonial cutting of the cake and throwing of the bouquet. The hours passed and the reception was winding down. Venice was exhausted and after a long night of dancing, she was ready to call it a night. Venice saw Galen and Joshua talking to Craig as they got ready to leave. Venice and Jarvis gave their parents hugs, kisses, and many thanks for all they had done, then left the reception.

  When they reached their room, she lay down on the bed and let out a deep breath. Jarvis took off his jacket and crawled over next to her. She wrapped her arms around his neck and pulled him down to her for a long, passion-filled kiss.

  “That was nice, Mrs. Anderson.”

  “I’m glad you enjoyed it, Mr. Anderson.”

  He continued to kiss her neck and lips as their bodies became enflamed.

  She whispered, “Let me get out of this dress. I want to try out that Jacuzzi.”

  He helped her up and unzipped the dress for her. She slipped out of it and he hung it up for her in the closet. Since her veil was held in her hair by so many bobby pins, he had to help her out of the veil also.

  Venice slipped into her lingerie as Jarvis opened the bottle of champagne. She entered the room with a long, white satin gown with spaghetti straps. The neckline plunged deep between her breasts and the back was out down to her firm round hips.

  He said, “Damn, baby, that’s sexy!”

  She blushed. “Thank you!”

  He sat beside her on the bed and handed her a glass of champagne. “Thank you, Niecy, for making me complete. You have always been my girl and I feel blessed that you allowed me to make you my wife. Again.”

  They laughed together and Venice said, “Thank you for not giving up on me and for having faith that we would be together again and forever this time. I love you.”

  They kissed each other then took a sip of their champagne.

  Venice asked, “Are you ready to test drive the Jacuzzi?”

  He smiled and said, “Right now, I’m aching to feel my body inside your body. You’re all I want.”

  “I’m aching for you too, baby. Make love to me…now.”

  “My pleasure.”

  Back upstairs at the reception, the guests were still partying. Joshua and Craig were sitting at a nearby table talking about Japan and school. Joshua had had his fair share of champagne and was talking a mile a minute.

  “Craig, you know I’m really going to miss my girl. So, I can only imagine how you must feel. I don’t see how you handled it today. If I were in your shoes, I don’t know if I would’ve been able to deal with it. Hell, I probably would’ve gotten me a few drinks and stepped up and stopped the wedding.”

  “Don’t think I didn’t have that very thought.”

  “Hey, you know Venice really cares about you. She was torn and I think she wanted you both, but realized she couldn’t have it that way.”

  “Joshua, I don’t think I’ll ever get over her. She’s special. It almost killed me when she told me she was getting married.”

  “I can imagine.”

  Craig played in his food and said, “Well…what’s done is done.”

  Joshua smiled and glanced out on the dance floor at Chanelle and some of the others. He then asked Craig, “So what are you going to do now?”

  “I’m going back to Dawson to graduate and then I am going to attempt to move on. I’m not going to be in any hurry to start another relationship anytime soon.”

  “You don’t mean that.”

  “Yes I do. I thought Venice was it for me. She was the one.”

  “Well, if it’s worth anything, I think she felt like you were the one also. Under different circumstances, you two would be together.”

  Craig finished off his drink. “Whatever, man.”

  Joshua paused for a moment and asked, “Hey, man, when was the last time you and Venice got together?”

  “What do you mean?”

  “You know…together. Hit the sheets.”

  “The day she came back to school after Christmas break. Why?”

  “Look, don’t repeat this. I’ve never, ever betrayed Venice and this will be the first time I did something she told me not to. She will kill me if she found out I told you.”

  “What is it? Is Venice okay?”

  “She’s not sure right now, but her period is late. Real late.”

  Craig fell back in his chair. “Is she pregnant?”

  “It’s possible, but she’s not sure yet. Nobody knows, not even Jarvis.”

  Craig leaned toward Joshua and asked, “She hasn’t told him yet?”

  “Nobody! I’m the only one who knows. I bought her a test but she hasn’t taken it yet. I don’t think she wants to. If she is pregnant, it’s deja vu for her. She was pregnant the last time she married Jarvis. Her doctor up’d the strength of her birth control pills cause the first ones weren’t strong enough. It’s a trip cause she’s been on the pill for a while. I hope she’s not pregnant cause she needs to get out of college before she starts a family.”

  “Damn! That’s messed up.”

  “I know. Look Craig, I’ll holler at you in a minute. I’m going to hit the dance floor.”

  “Okay.”

  Joshua hit the dance floor just like he said, not sensing the storm about to erupt.

  A baby? I might be having a baby. Talk about luck.

  Jarvis and Venice enjoyed the warm waters of the Jacuzzi after a heated session of making love. Straddling his lap, she wrapped her arms around his neck and kissed him as he caressed her back. His body renewed itself and he was
anxious to consume her once again. She took a deep breath as he slowly entered her heat.

  Venice tightly wrapped her legs around him and continued to push her tongue into his warm mouth while saying, “I love you, Jarvis.”

  He smiled and stared into her eyes, noticing that he was hitting her hot spots. Venice closed her eyes and threw her head back and let out a series of moans as he moved deeper inside her.

  He groaned, then whispered, “Baby, you feel so good.”

  Jarvis continued to work her body slowly and erotically while covering her hardened nipples with his mouth. He felt her body tremble as he emptied his seed into her enflamed cavern. She released a loud moan as she clung to him lovingly, feeling him shudder with his release.

  “I don’t want this night to end.”

  “Who said it has to? I’m just warming up, baby.”

  He toweled her dry as he whispered his love in her ear. She closed her eyes, feeling her body tingle and shiver from head to toe. He wrapped a towel around his waist and they fell upon the bed. He covered her body with his and immediately parted her lips with his tongue aggressively. Soft whimpers escaped her throat as she savored the taste of him. His roaming hands and lips devoured her soft body as his desire pushed against her leg. Then, in a surprising move, he started kissing her between her thighs.

  Venice moaned out loud, “Oh-h-h, Jarvis!”

  He didn’t answer as he kissed, licked, and devoured all her sweetness. This was a total shock to Venice since he had never done that to her before. She breathed loudly and moaned to the pleasure. She trembled and moaned even louder as he orally made love to her forcefully, yet tenderly. Venice began to speak in Spanish as Jarvis worked his tongue and lips over her body. He finally stopped and thrust himself into her and made love to her plunging deep and hard into her moist cavity. Venice held onto him securely and felt a little lightheaded from the session. He was burning with hot desire and love until his body was hit with explosive spasms. He exploded inside her body as Venice screamed out in erotic moans.

  “Baby, where did that come from?”