by Kendra Riley
“Huh?”
“You promised me harder liquor. I told you what was up with Dad, now let’s go.”
Russell brushed off Morgan’s attempt to get him up. A loud pop echoed throughout the room before the sound of Morgan sucking air through his teeth.
“Dude, you know I have a bad shoulder.”
“You know you have a bad shoulder too.” Russell helped Nariah up and headed out the door, leaving Morgan crumpled in pain.
###
Later in the evening, Nariah met Stephanie, affectionately referred to as Stephy by Scott. The stress from having to bear her husband’s wrath and perhaps the guilt of not being able to protect herself showed themselves as deep lines etched about her face. Despite them, her smile was still pleasant.
“Very nice to meet you Nariah. It’s great that Russell has met a woman he feels good enough about to bring home.”
“You’ve never brought a girl home?” she questioned.
“Been waiting on you.” He grinned.
The conversation was as lively as the spices mixing with the elements in the air. Nariah couldn’t keep up with the stories being spewed about Russell, each family member cutting one another off. From what she gathered, by the passion in their voices and faces, they were all proud of the man he had become. As they all left to prepare for the feast, she and Russell settled at the table. “You’re blushing.”
“They’re never like this. I wouldn’t be surprised if all of them were high.”
One of the waitstaff announced a new arrival.
“Dddaadddyyy.”
Russell was barely able to get out of his seat before a small body collided with his. His smile took up his face, the only one rivaling it was when he was playing with Carson. He smothered the little boy with affection, their laughter mixing as Russell whisked him around.
Seth tapped Russell on the shoulder, eyes on Nariah. “Daddy?”
“Yes.”
“Who’s the pretty lady?”
Now Nariah was the one blushing. She couldn’t deny how much he looked like his father, even more so than the pictures she saw of him.
“Why don’t you introduce yourself and ask her,” Russell suggested. He set Seth on the ground, retaking his seat so he couldn’t hide behind his legs. “Don’t be shy now. Your mom told me how you talk to all the girls in your class.”
Seth waved, his chin tucked into his chest. “Hello.”
“What did I teach you?”
Seth raised his head and puffed his chest. This time his greeting had more confidence. “My name is Seth, what’s yours?”
“My name is Nariah.”
“What next?” Russell insisted.
Seth offered her his hand. He dropped his chin once again as she took it. “Nice to meet you.”
“Nice to meet you too. You’re a very handsome little boy, just like your daddy.”
“I think you’re pretty,” he said with a giggle, running behind Russell’s chair.
“Is that my big boy I hear,” Scott called.
“Papa!” Within an instance he was gone.
“No Mom?” Nariah asked.
“We’re still getting used to co-parenting. Maybe in the future.” Russell caressed her cheek before kissing her. “Thank you for being so understanding.”
“I love you.”
“I love you too. I know I mentioned wanting to introduce Carson and Seth on my own, but it only feels right that you do it with me.”
“Of course baby.” Nariah left to wake Carson from his nap. When she returned, Seth and Russell were tucked into a corner away from the rest of the family. She watched as Seth listened intently to Russell’s every word, subject to the same spell as his younger brother. He nodded, looking in her and Carson’s direction, his eyes lighting up.
“This is your little brother,” Russell said.
The two took some moments to examine one another, sure to be determining if the other was an enemy. “He’s so small. Was I that small Daddy?”
“You sure were. I could hold you with one hand.”
Seth used the corner of the blanket to wipe Carson’s nose, already proving to embrace the responsibility of being a big brother. The connection between the two was sealed as Carson wrapped his little fingers around Seth’s thumb.
Russell said, “He’s going to need you to show him how to be a big boy. And he’s going to need you to protect him.”
“I’ll never let anything bad happen to him. I promise. Your big brother’s here now C.C.”
Nariah wiped the tears that began to flow.
“Oh my goodness. I’ve got to have a picture of this,” Stephy announced.
Russell set Seth in his lap, Nariah resting Carson in his lap and showing him how to hold him before taking a seat next to Russell. A flash commemorated the event, while also assuring Nariah there were good things to come in the future.
###
Conversation flowed around the table, the various courses unable to keep up with the speed at which topics changed. Nariah helped Seth feed Carson, making funny faces that made him laugh, allowing Seth to sneak the spoon into his mouth.
“So Nariah,” Stephy asked, “how are you liking motherhood? You seem to have adjusted easily.”
“I’m glad you think so, because it has been quite the adjustment. Honestly, I didn’t think I would be a good mother.”
“Why is that, it seems so natural for you?”
“I didn’t know if I wanted kids. And I was scared.”
“Well, you’re doing a great job,” Stephy complimented.
“I agree,” Russell added.
“To family and our newest additions,” Scott raised his glass, “who will receive nothing but the best life has to offer.” They all sipped from their glasses at the same time.
Nariah could see something brewing within Scott’s spirit. The shift in his mood was subtle, so much so that the other people at the table were oblivious. Despite not having dealt with someone who suffered from his disease, she felt justified in acting if he began to get out of line, if not for the mere fact of protecting her son.
Scott wiped his mouth and leaned back in his chair, observing the rest of his family. His face showed no malice, nor did it show joy. His body was tense as if he was fighting to keep whatever was trying to spill out contained. No longer able to hold it in, he said, “Nariah, would you mind putting the boys to bed.”
She took Seth by the hand, cradling Carson in her free arm.
His mood swallowed everyone else’s by the time she retook her seat. His presence commanded respect and undivided attention. He transformed into the man that built a billion-dollar empire, one that would provide a life without want for generations after him. Only his eyes moved. The back of his chair was without the warmth of his body. “Now that I have you here—”referring to Morgan and Russell—“there are some things you need to hear from me.”
“You don’t have to do—”
“I do and I will say them, whether you are ready to hear them or not, whether you want to hear them or not.”
Morgan jogged down the hallway, a fresh bottle of Jack Daniels hanging at his side. “I can’t be the only one that needs a drink.”
“I’ll take one,” Russell said.
Soon everyone had a half-filled glass sitting in front of them. Russell forewent trying to convince Scott not to mix alcohol with his medication. He was strapped in for the ride.
“As you all know, I’m not one to beat around the bush. I treated you like shit when you were growing up.” Scott tossed his drink back. “Now that I have a clear head, I can see that. I won’t make mistakes for it. I was weak. I let my disease control me.”
“Come on Dad,” Russell interrupted. “You didn’t know.”
“But I did know. Your grandfather, my father, was bipolar.”
Nariah spotted the shock in Russell’s face out of the corner of her eye. She grabbed his hand, his flesh cold.
“What?” Morgan belched. He was too unde
r the influence to be shocked, his reaction more along the lines of curiosity versus anger.
“What!” The degree of the redness in Russell’s skin correlated directly with how loud his voice was. “And you didn’t get treatment?”
“I thought I could control it,” Scott said.
“You didn’t think differently after the first time.”
The first time.
The fact that he didn’t have to recall the events that took place in the memory showed how fresh and significant the attack was. Nariah traced the outlines of his scars, able to see them through his white dress shirt.
“Or the second time. Or the third time. Or the—”
Scott held up his hand. “I won’t make excuses for why I didn’t. I’d be speculating myself if I offered any. Perhaps I was dying from my struggle with alcoholism as well. All I can do is apologize and though it may be late, I’m under the supervision of one of the best doctors in the country, in addition to a highly touted psychiatrist.”
“What’s the psychiatrist’s name?” Russell questioned.
“I’m a grown man. I don’t need you checking up on me.”
“You were a grown man when—never mind.”
“I know it’s going to be hard, son, but you’re going to have to trust me. I know I have to earn that, as well as your respect. I’m willing to do what I have to for as long as I have to, to repair what I’ve broken. Understand I wouldn’t allow myself to be around my grandchildren if I felt I didn’t have this under control.”
His point had merit. It was also one Russell hadn’t considered as he glanced down the long hallway. He relaxed into his seat, taking a sip from his glass. He gestured for Scott to continue.
“I will show you things are different, that I’m different. I have forgiven myself for the physical pain I caused you, Morgan, and your mother. You have all managed to heal from your physical wounds.”
Nariah winced. She swallowed the bile in her throat, the bitter alcohol causing to appear once more.
“I haven’t been able to forgive myself for the emotional scars I’m sure you all still carry. Therapy has helped me to realize that what you have for me, your loyalty, is given out of fear. Russell—”he didn’t blink as he stared into his eldest son’s eyes—“thank you for protecting your mother and brother.”
“You don’t have to thank—”
“I do,” Scott insisted. “You took the majority of my wretchedness. I also owe you a personal apology. I apologize if in any way you are like me.” His gaze found Nariah. “I gave you everything I had for better and worse. I have molded you into an excellent businessman, but I can’t say that with confidence regarding your personal life.”
“He’s a great man and a great father, to both his kids,” Nariah interrupted. She kept her face straight despite Russell squeezing her thigh, afterward entangling his fingers with hers. “If no one minds me saying, Scott, I think it’s brave of you to be doing this. I’d be lying if I said I didn’t have an image of you in my head before I met you after what Russell has told me. But now I have no doubts about the man you are. I know that what you couldn’t do and be for Morgan and Russell, you’ll do for Seth and Carson.”
Several moments passed before Scott reacted. A smile broke across his face, reaching his eyes. “That means the world to me Nariah. Thank you.”
Russell pressed his lips to her temple, whispering how much he loved her into her ear as he hugged her.
“Now, I’d like to hear from you boys,” Scott announced. “I’m sure there are things you’ve been wanting to tell me for quite some time.”
“You already know how I feel Dad,” Morgan slurred. “I love you. I’m still in the process of forgiving you, but I’m happy we’re taking steps to repairing our relationship.”
All eyes fell to Russell, who remained quiet, spinning his glass on the table. He looked up for a second, looking down once more. He downed the rest of his drink in one gulp. His eyes closed, he tapped a beat on the table.
Nariah caressed the back of his hand with her thumb, hoping to feel what he was feeling, though she’d much rather know what he was thinking.
He opened his eyes. “Thank you for your apology, Dad. As Nariah said, I’m nothing like you. I made a conscious effort to distance myself from that part of myself. After today, I won’t be drinking anything other than wine. And I’ll limit myself to a couple of glasses of that.” He went on to describe the lessons he learned as a result of his childhood, specifically how not to treat the people one claims to love. He chronicled his struggles to trust anyone, women in particular to his perceived view of Stephy’s lack of action. This was the main reason for his failed relationships.
“I’m proud of you son,” Scott said.
“Everything I went through made me a stronger man, so I have to thank you for that,” Russell said. “I wouldn’t be who I am today if it wasn’t for you.” He slid his chair back, directing his attention to Nariah after he stood. “I see now that everything in my life prepared me for you.”
There was a clear shift in the room’s atmosphere, everyone breathing a bit easier, their shoulders dropping a bit. Stephy’s mouth was cocked into a grin, the only one recognizing what was happening.
“I’ve waited my whole life for you,” Russell continued. “I would be remiss if I said I didn’t lose faith at some points. I have the reputation of being a bachelor and that very well may be true, but each relationship brought me closer to you. I love you more than I ever thought possible. I’ve disappointed and failed you more than is acceptable, but each time you’ve found it in your heart to forgive me.” He dropped to one knee.
“What are you doing,” Nariah whispered.
“You wouldn’t let me do it in your basement and I don’t want to wait any longer. I don’t have a ring, but we can go shopping for one tomorrow if you want.”
Nariah’s head spun, the blood rushing to her brain. She didn’t know what to think, not that she could think at all. She held onto his hand in an effort to hold on to reality. Heart in her throat, she focused on Russell’s nostrils, which flared each time he inhaled, mirroring the movement.
“You stood by my side in spite of everything I put you through and the only way I know how to show my appreciation is by standing by yours, for the rest of my life. Will you marry me? Please.”
She remained silent. The feeling left her fingers, the numbness traveling up her arm before overtaking the rest of her body. Tears streaming down her face, she nodded.
“Yes,” Russell encouraged.
“Yes.”
He swept her into his arms, twirling her around. Cupping her face in his hands, he confessed his love once more before kissing her.
“Here, here,” Scott said standing, holding his glass in the air.
“You finally decided to listen to me.” Morgan and Russell exchanged a handshake and a hug. “Congratulations, bro. She’s pretty perfect. Don’t screw this up.” He hugged Nariah. “Welcome to the family, sis. If you ever need a babysitter, I’m only a phone call away.”
“And 3,000 miles.” Nariah laughed.
“Actually, I’ve been thinking about moving to the East Coast.”
“Is that right?” Russell asked.
“Now that Dad’s doing alright, I’m not needed around here anymore.” Morgan answered the question on Russell’s lips. “Mom’s fine with it.” He poured the rest of his drink down the nearby sink.
“I’ve literally never seen him do that,” Russell said to Nariah.
“Since you’re not drinking anymore, neither will I. I still wanna be just like you bro.”
The hug the men shared solidified the strengthening of their bond, also ushering in a new chapter in their lives.
Stephy, who had sneaked off, gathered everyone back around the large dining table, holding something behind her back. Nariah could tell she still hadn’t gotten used to her newfound independence, habit causing her to glance at Scott for permission to speak. She cleared her throat, remi
nding herself that she no longer needed it. She locked eyes with Nariah, her smile giving her extra courage. She set a small red box on the table in front of her.
Scott’s eyes widened with recognition.
“I never thought this day would come,” Stephy started. “I wasn’t able to protect you boys the way a mother is supposed to and I’ve just now come to terms with that fact. I’ve always thought neither one of you brought a woman home because you were embarrassed of me. It means the world that you brought Nariah here.” She let her tears fall, beckoning her oldest son to her. “I’ve been saving this just for this occasion.”
With her urging, Russell opened the box to reveal a modest vintage style ring, a deep blue sapphire stone sparkling in his pupils.
“Your father gave me this when he proposed. It’s also the ring Grandpa proposed to Grandma with.” Stephy held his face. “I’m so proud of you. You’ve exceeded everything I ever wanted you to be.”
“Thank you, Mom. Now I can do it the right way.” Once again, Russell dropped to his knee in front of Nariah. “Third time’s the charm.” He chuckled. “Nariah Alexander, will you do me the honor of being my wife?”
“Yes.” Nariah held her arm to keep it from shaking as Russell slipped the ring on. “It’s beautiful. Thank you so much, Stephy.” The women exchanged a loving embrace, one that offered strength and healing.
“Call me Mom.”
“And call me Dad,” Scott added.
“What are you gonna give me when I’m ready to get married,” Morgan joked.
“You’ll find out when that happens.” Stephy laughed. “If it ever happens.”
Nariah and Russell found themselves snuggled up on the couch, marveling in the beauty of her ring. She laid her head on his chest, finding comfort in the thump of his heart on her eardrum. There was safety in his touch, surety in his presence. She knew she wouldn’t have to go through anything alone again. “What are you thinking about?”
“You. The future.”
“What about it?” she asked.
“I don’t want to wait to marry you. I’ve waited for you long enough.”
