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  Her feelings for Devin were powerful. Alana had completely lost her will to fight against them any longer. Sitting buoyantly against his chest, she listened as his heart thumped a pleasant beat against the side of her face and sent melodic sounds into her ear. Turning slightly, she wrapped an arm around his waist and let go of her last bit of tension.

  She’d never been in love until Devin come blasting into her life. She wasn’t sure of many things lately, but she knew love was present.

  The time she’d spent away from him helped her realize how much she’d come to care for him. Finally, she allowed herself to be carried over the threshold of pain and carried into a world built on shared emotions.

  ***

  The sun’s bright rays kissed her cheek and enticed her to raise her eyelids. Usually, she knew she’d slept well when she couldn’t remember dreaming. It took her a moment to realize that she was lying atop her husband’s chest.

  He kissed her on the forehead. “Good morning, sleepyhead.” His hand ached to fondle the natural softness of her curves as his eyes traveled the span of her body lying so fittingly atop his.

  Smiling, her attempt to get up was stopped and a sudden onslaught of nervousness grabbed her.

  Devin swept her hair away and placed tender kisses along the nape of her neck. Her hair smelled of freshly cut roses, making him savor the curly strains as they tickled his face.

  His words caressed her as much as his lips. “I think it’s going to be hard to fall asleep again without you pressed so securely against me. This feels good.”

  Although she tensed at his words, he needed her to know how much she had come to mean to him. “I would love to continue to come and see you if that’s okay with you?”

  She found it hard to say no to him while in his arms. “Yes.”

  He commented, “I don’t want to leave, but I don’t want to overstay my welcome either.” Reluctantly, he let her up. He put on his shoes, grabbed his keys from her coffee table and found it challenging to walk away. She reached for the hand he held out to her. It pleased him immensely, seeing that she no longer hid that she wanted to be near him.

  “Can you promise that you’ll call me, text, email, send a pigeon if you have to, just contact me. I want to know that you’re safe. I also want to know how much you miss me.”

  He brushed his lips across her cheek and let them linger at the delicate skin just below ear. “I know it won’t take long for you to miss me, so call me in a few hours okay.”

  Unable to hide a smile, she spoke sarcastically. “If… I miss you; I’ll give you a call.”

  Right before he stepped away, he gave her a lingering kiss and whispered, “You’ll miss me. I can feel it all over your body.”

  ***

  The Nazaris ensured Alana didn’t spend Christmas alone. Sue accompanied Devin to Alana’s apartment and let it be known that they weren’t leaving until she came back home to enjoy Christmas Eve and Christmas with her family. Alana’s father was invited, making it the best Christmas she’d had in a long time.

  Alana learned a bit more about how much her husband cared about her when she found her room looking like a high-end boutique. Devin didn’t have to get her one special Christmas gift because every gift he’d bought for her was displayed about her room and there were many. The display allowed Alana to see better that her husband cared for her more than she’d allowed herself to believe.

  Her mother- and father-in-law had given her blank tickets to anywhere she wanted to go to in the world.

  Alana promised she would spend New Year’s Eve with friends, but it hadn’t stopped Devin from visiting New Year’s Day.

  Not used to the attention she was receiving from her husband, Alana forced herself to relax and enjoy it. Devin stopped by her apartment often, saying he'd give her just enough time between visits to miss him.

  For the first time in his life, Devin chased a woman. The realization scared him, but Alana gave him something that no other woman had. She was the ember that sparked meaning in his life and surprisingly she provided him genuine companionship. She was honest with him in a way that no one else had been. The fact that he was completely in love with her was also a first.

  Chapter 21

  Story Teller

  Still on her leave of absence, Alana was glad it was her turn to host her group’s book club meeting. It gave her something to do. The book being discussed this week was The Bone Garden by Tess Gerritsen.

  Her book club consisted of eight ladies, two born males that lived as females. Calvin went as Kelly and Kenneth went as Kendra. Although male, Alana believed they were both more feminine than she would ever be. They had certainly taught her about style and dress and had helped her decorate her apartment. Other members of the book club consisted of Sandra, Laura, Julie, Paulette, and Nora. They had all met each other through work or college.

  Now, all seated comfortably in Alana’s living room, they chatted about the latest gossip before getting into the book. The topic: Who was sleeping around with whom at the huge medical complex in which most of them worked?

  Kelly abruptly changed the subject. “Alana, what’s happening with you and that handsome husband of yours? Why did you leave that mansion to come back here? How come you’ve never invited us to that mansion when you where there? Better yet, why haven’t we been introduced to your husband?”

  Eyebrows raised, Alana glared at Sandra who had been the only one to visit her at the mansion as they called it. Sandra had easily seen at least a few hundred-thousand of their wedding pictures. Sue had them flashing on digital picture frames throughout Nazari house.

  Guilty of telling all that she’d seen, Sandra eyes didn’t meet Alana’s as she hunched her shoulders in shame.

  Looking towards Kelly, Alana prepared to answer her question. Knowing every eye in the room was fixed on her for answers, her shoulders tightened. “We’re working things out, per my request.” Not knowing what to do with her eyes, Alana stared at the carpet. Her words projected a hint of uncertainty. “Although lately, I have been thinking that I may have made a huge mistake leaving. I think I’m being silly and selfish.”

  Kelly stared at Alana with her lips parted. Alana didn't know if she was shocked or waiting for more information.

  Kelly continued, “I don’t know why you up and got married without inviting or telling any of us, but hon-tee, if he is as hot and fine as Sandra says he is, I don’t blame you, I’da married him too.”

  It was time she told them the truth. They were her friends. Just as quickly as she thought to tell them the truth, Alana changed her mind. Who am I kidding? She had no clear idea of why she had agreed to marry Devin. She couldn’t tell them that she had no idea who she truly was and her marriage may be the only thing keeping her alive.

  Instead of spilling the beans, she attempted to deflect. “Why you all up in my business Kelly? I thought we were talking about work affairs?”

  Kelly raised her hand, holding it as one would a sign. “Don’t you get snippy with me Missy. You’re the one that up and got married one day and didn’t tell any of us about it until after you moved into the man’s house. Then, you keep him hidden away from all of us. Then, you bring your li’l behind to work every day and into these book-club meetings like nothing’s changed. Do you truthfully expect us not to pry or ask questions?”

  Alana dropped her head. She hated that she hadn’t shared her marriage with her friends, but she had never quite figured out how to tell them the story of how she had come to be married.

  A bit softer, Kelly continued, “You must really like this man because I have never known for you to be so secretive and defensive.”

  A guilty smile found her face. “I’m sorry for not telling you guys. The circumstances surrounding my sudden marriage are complex and you guys probably wouldn’t believe me if I told you the whole story.”

  The entire room stared silently, waiting for more information. The chime of the doorbell saved Alana from further scrutiny.
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br />   Running towards the door, Kendra announced, “I got it.”

  ***

  Devin watched the man eyeball him up and down a few times with a pleased smile. He wore a full face of make-up and what looked like a silk robe. With his most flamboyant attitude, he asked, “Hon-tee, if you’re lost, please let me be your guide.” He swayed his hips and turned his head slightly, no doubt enjoying the splendid vision standing in front of him.

  “My name is Devin. I’m here to see my wife Alana.”

  At his words, the man straightened quickly. You’d have thought he was being yelled at by a Drill Sergeant in Basic Training. Immediately embarrassed, he placed a hand atop his mouth and spoke through the cracks of his fingers. “I’m so embarrassed; please forgive my big ass mouth. Please come in, Devin.” He turned towards the group while saying "Devin" louder than the rest of his words.

  The group fell silent so suddenly you would have thought that time had found a way to stand still. The audience now stared towards the door and the man speaking in a sing-song tone, “Alana, your husband is here to see you.”

  Alana stood quickly, part shock and part happy to see Devin. She walked the short distance to greet him, but stopped herself from running into his arms like she wanted to. Not allowing her a chance to be modest, Devin pulled her into his arms. She enjoyed the temporary warmth, but shock filled her when he leaned in and kissed her, first on the lips then on the cheek.

  The book club members were frozen, some had hands over their mouths. No eyes were blinking. Glancing around, Alana thought they had all become fossilized. Is my behavior with Devin that shocking? Have I been such a prude that my friends are shocked to see me with a man?

  She announced, “Devin, this is a group of my closest and dearest friends.” She went around the group reciting everyone’s name. Alana pointed at Kendra. “And you’ve already met Kendra.”

  Devin nodded. A quick study, he knew that some of women in attendance were certified queens. His Uncle Jimmy, who went by Jellisa, was a queen and proud of it.

  Devin announced, “I didn’t mean to disturb you ladies.”

  Kelly and Kendra both smiled their appreciation, likely relishing the fact that a hot man had taken notice of their fabulousness.

  Devin continued, “I was just stopping by to check on my better half.”

  Kendra spoke for the group. “You’re not disturbing us at all. Sit and join us, please. We were only gossiping like a bunch of hens.”

  Happy to be invited, Devin looked to his wife for approval. She shrugged her shoulders as Laura moved so that Devin could sit next to Alana on the couch.

  Not wasting a moment, Kendra told Devin, “Most men wouldn’t know to address this group as ladies considering that there are technically two men present. I know we are fabulous, but how do you know the deal?”

  Devin told the group about his uncle Jimmy.

  This was news that Alana was hearing for the first time as well. After six months of marriage, there was still a lot she had to learn about her husband.

  Sitting comfortably among the group, Devin asked, “What book are you discussing?”

  Kendra answered. “The Bone Garden, but we forgot all about that book when you came strolling in here. We can talk about the book next week because there is nothing more interesting than you and this lady sitting here.” Kendra used accusing eyes to look at Alana.

  Devin loved telling stories, especially with an audience as captivating as this one. He was a better entertainer than any of them knew. Because of his arrogant attitude he had the ability to ad lib on the fly and got lots of practice, especially in the harsh business world he worked in.

  With a mischievous shine to his eyes, Devin asked, “What would you ladies like to know?”

  Glancing between him and Alana, the group was likely deciding if Devin was kidding. Alana had been so secretive about their marriage it was likely hard for them to believe he would so easily volunteer information.

  Kelly addressed Devin. “Are you really going to tell us your business? Your little Missus there has been holding out on us for months.”

  Devin was eager to entertain them. “I think my wife is ashamed of me. She means to keep me her little secret.”

  Alana glared at him. She couldn’t believe he had told her entire group of friends a total lie.

  Amused, he sensed Alana’s eyes on him. “Did she tell you guys how we met?”

  Everyone shouted, “No,” in unison.

  Interested in knowing where he would tell them, Alana turned towards Devin to hear the details.

  He began, “I was walking along Washington Avenue when I noticed her. I was nearly hit by a car because she had captured my attention so completely. She didn’t give me the time of day when I spoke to her. Instead, she gave a pathetic wave and continued on her path. I caught up, asked if she could point me in the direction of the courthouse. I knew where it was located but I posed the question as my ice breaker. Do you guy know that all she did was point? She pointed in the direction of the courthouse and kept stepping. I guess I wasn’t worthy of her words, but my persistence wouldn’t let me give up.”

  The group was so riveted by Devin’s words; you could hear the water dripping in Alana’s kitchen sink. The wine and cheese sitting in front of them had been forgotten.

  Smiling at their eager expressions, Devin continued creating the story. “I quickly got to the point. She walks fast for someone so petite.”

  Alana interrupted, “I’m not petite. Five-five is average.”

  The group waved her off. She'd had her turn. They were only interested in what Devin had to say.

  Giving Alana a smile, he corrected, “She walks fast for an average sized woman.”

  Alana could tell that he enjoyed himself. Giving her a quick wink, Devin continued, “I asked her out right there on the street.”

  The group all stared at him waiting in anticipation for more.

  He continued, “She stopped, kind of like a car slamming on breaks. Then, she stared at me long and hard without saying anything. Honestly, I thought she was about to slap the hell out of me. Instead, she looked me up and down like I was the one average sized and asked me why I wanted to go out with her. She hadn’t said no, so I told her that she had captured my attention, I thought she was beautiful, and that I’d like to know more about her. She assessed me some more, then reached into her purse, wrote her number, and handed it over. Noticing my reluctance, she put a little wiggle in her neck and ensured me it was her real number. In a real smart tone, she addressed me as whatever-your-name-is and asked if I always approached strange women, asking them out and feeding them those tired outdated lines. This hurt my ego a bit, but it also made me laugh, so I gave her my name. I attempted to engage her in more conversation, but she’d had enough of me. She started walking again, but I followed. I continued to follow while dialing the number she had given me. I could make out the sound of her phone ringing inside her purse, but she didn’t answer it. I asked if she planned to answer her phone. She said no, it was probably some crazy dude she’d met on the street bothering her while she was trying to make an appointment.”

  Devin paused and surveyed the room. All eyes remained on him. He continued, “She had a wicked sense of humor that drew me in even more. She managed to be serious, sarcastic and funny all at the same time. I greeted how nice to have met her and ensured her that I would be calling. She revealed to me the most beautiful smile and told me in a sarcastic tone not to get too excited because she hadn’t decided yet if she was going to answer her phone. I swear; I fell in love right then and there. No woman had dismissed me like that. Strangely, I liked it; so spicy and sassy. It took me at least ten calls to get her to go out with me. For our first date, she didn’t want me knowing where she lived, so she met me at Tony’s Fun Zone. To her surprise, I’m sure, we had fun. At her obvious reluctance, she agreed to go out with me again. I have to tell you, she wreaked havoc on my ego and stood me up on our second date. My persistence hel
d strong and her seemingly intriguing disinterest in me made me want her that much more. I called and called and called until she agreed to go out with me again. She’ll never admit it, but I started to grow on her at some point because she allowed me to take her out, twice in one month.”

  Kendra shook her head at Alana. “Twice in one month is a lot for Mrs. Lockdown.” Kendra waved her hands towards Devin. “Baby. I’m sorry, please keep going.”

  Alana watched Devin intently, not believing how much she was enjoying his story. It was much better than what had actually happened.

  Taking a quick glance around at his audience, Devin thought about what direction he wanted to take his story. He continued, “Before you knew it months had slipped by. She hadn’t invited me to her place, but I wasn’t going to give up. She eventually started letting me take her out more frequently. A few more months, she finally allowed me into this apartment. For someone like me that is used to getting my way, it felt like I had won the lottery. I knew from the day I met her that I wanted to marry her, so I remained patient. I know you’re all wondering and the answer is ‘no’. She didn’t give me any kind of play. I took a lot of cold showers after our dates.”

  The entire room erupted in laughter, including Alana.

  Happy he could entertain the group, Devin continued, “Another month and my hormones and I were on the verge of a nervous breakdown. I wondered what it would take for us to get to the next stage of our relationship, but I knew enough not to push her. I went out on a limb and asked her to marry me. She looked straight into my eyes and asked me if I was crazy. I took that as a no. I asked for her hand in marriage repeatedly and the answer was always….”

  The group all shouted, “Nooo!” as Alana dropped her head in laughter.

  Smiling, Devin continued, “After about what had to be the hundredth try, she finally said yes to marriage. I was so sure she’d tell me no again, I’d left the ring at my house. Determined to get her to the altar, I set a date for the very next week. Unbelievably, she agreed to it.”