Page 14

Kybella Vonshire

It had been a year since Kybella had seen her mother and sister.

The day had come to pick them up from the airport.

All she wanted to do was hug her mother and lay on her lap while telling her all her problems.

Her mom was always there to solve every problem, except the abuse she endured by Brian.

Life had changed for Kybella.

If anyone had told her that accepting Jesus’ calling over her life involved enduring hardship, not as punishment, but as way to grow in strength, empathy, faith, and starting anew, she would have rebuked it.

Her suffering wasn’t meaningless; it was a part of a greater plan to serve others through what she’d overcome.

The airport was bustling with people trying to make it to their plane on time.

The airport schedule on the screen read that their flight was on time.

She waited patiently to see her family appear in the baggage claim area.

As she observed all the people, she noticed her family hadn’t arrived.

Fifteen minutes later, there they were with their baggage in hand.

Bella ran to her mom.

“Mom, you made it! I’m so happy to see you.”

“And what am I chopped liver?” Samantha asked.

“Hey sister. “So what’s the label, boo, bae, or just some dude?

”

“Dang, nosey. You didn’t give me a chance to tell you. Malik, this is my sister Kybella. Bella this is my boyfriend, Malik Brewer.”

They both looked at each other like they’d seen a ghost.

“What’s wrong baby sister? Why do you look so scared?”

“Oh. Your boyfriend looks like a bodyguard I know.”

“My boyfriend is a bodyguard at my university. I’m an assistant coach. We have several high earning NIL players that require guards. I met him while he was working. What a small world.” Samantha giggled as she held onto Malik’s hand tightly.

“Well, isn’t that ironic. I’ll tell you all later about how I know him. Malik, please allow me the chance to talk to my family in private. I know you all will only be here for a few but I hope you all will enjoy your stay still. I wanted to share my news with you in person.”

She grabbed her mother’s hand and walked them to the car.

Malik walked away so they could converse privately.

It was evident he was in an uncomfortable situation.

He clinched his bottom lip the entire way to the limo.

“Lovely! My daughter is always so thoughtful. She got us a limousine ride from the airport. Are we going to your new home or to a hotel?”

“Mom, you ask too many questions. You will see once we’re there. I’ll tell you everything once we arrive.”

After a restless hour drive, they arrived at Chateau Ferguson.

“Welcome, Ms. Vonshire.” The guard said and opened the gate.

“Bella, whose home is this? Are you taking us to one of your celebrity friend’s home my darling?”

“Come on mom. You can get out of the car now. We’re here.” Bella giggled.

“Well, baby, you can’t trust anyone but Jesus. My mother always said, ‘If you don’t know where you are or who you’re with, you’re already in danger, and closed mouths don’t get fed.’” Mama Vonshire projected, eyes narrowing.

“Welcome to Chateau Ferguson,” Adonis greeted them all at the door.

He extended his hand to shake hands of all that came through the door.

That was until Malik stepped up.

“Um, what’s going on? Why did you bring Malik to my house? I made it clear we were done.” Adonis announced.

“Babe, let’s go in the room for a second.” She smiled to play everything off.

“We’ll be right back family. Please make yourself comfortable in the living room.” She announced while taking Adonis into the bedroom.

“Babe, I wasn’t aware Malik was coming with them. I didn’t know until I met them at the airport. My sister, Samantha, just informed me that he’s her new boyfriend. She’s clearly catching feelings for him. He’s got her sprung. I guess it runs in the family.” She giggled.

Adonis took a deep breath.

You should have texted me first before bringing him.

It would have been easier to deal with the situation if I’d have been more prepared.

I fired the man abruptly because he didn’t do his job.

What if he was still upset about it?

It could’ve been a situation that resulted into a fight.

”

“I’m sorry honey. You’re right, I should’ve communicated better with you. It won’t happen again. Please forgive me.”

He pulled her close to him.

Towering over her, he reached down and gave her a loving kiss.

“You don’t need to ask me for forgiveness. Everything is okay. Nothing or no one could ever come between us. I was caught off guard, but we’re good.” She stared at him in his eyes like he’d taken a piece of her soul with his kiss.

“Malik is here because of your sister. I know you care about your sister. I care about you, So, I’m willing to work things out with him, for you. Now let’s go and catch up with your family. I need to get to know them better.”

“Mother Vonshire, my name is Adonis Ferguson. I’m Kybella’s new boyfriend. It’s nice to meet you. I see where she gets her looks from, as you are as beautiful as your daughter.”He spoke admiring her all-white linen suit and pearls she wore.

Standing tall with a natural long grey ponytail that flowed to the middle of her back.

She reminded him of Tina Knowles.

Mother Vonshire blushed from the compliment.

Thank you darling.

It’s nice to meet you as well.

My daughter has a lot to tell me about her new life.

I have many questions.

I’m a widow.

I wish you could have met my wonderful husband.

I miss him so much.

” She said while looking down in disappointment.

“Hi, I’m Samantha Vonshire.” Please excuse my mother.

She’s still grieving.

She’ll snap out of her despair soon.

Then she’ll talk your head off.

I understand you’re acquainted with my man, Malik.

I hope it’s okay we’re here.

If not, we can stay at a hotel.

”

“Nonsense. I wouldn’t dare allow y’all to stay at a hotel. We’re all family now. Malik and I will go to the kitchen and have a beer while you ladies talk.”

∞∞∞

“You look so beautiful, mom.” Bella spoke to brighten the mood.

“Here sweetie, I have something to give you. A letter came in the mail addressed to you from Paris. I wanted to open it for you, but I didn’t want to pry.” Mama Vonshire replied as she reached into her bag to retrieve the envelope.

She handed the envelope to Bella.

It was from Brian.

All eyes were on her to open the letter.

“Well, go on and open it.” Mama Vonshire urged her.

There was silence in the room as Bella tore open the letter with her red, almond shaped fingernails.

Taking a deep breath, she read the letter aloud, causing her eyelashes to flutter.

“Dear Bella, my beautiful fiancé. I hope this letter finds you well. I’ve been in jail pondering how to muster up enough courage to reach out to you. I know I’m the last person you want to hear from. I’ve done horrific things and treated you less than you deserved. I wanted to tell you that I’m terribly sorry. I’m begging for your forgiveness. I’ve met a chaplain in jail and joined the church. Things have gotten better ever since I’ve joined the church. I’ve found brothers in Christ. They pray for me and the chaplain has helped me understand the Bible better. You know I wasn’t a Bible thumper before, I was too worried about the flesh. I’ve changed and I’m becoming a new man in Christ. I don’t think I would’ve been able to handle these days in jail without God. As you may know, I have to go to trial next week. Pray for me. Although I know I won’t get released, I pray that the judge shows mercy on me. If Jesus endured death on the cross, I can handle my time in prison. Love always, Brian.” She closed the letter and put it down.

The mother and sister exchanged a look, a silent understanding passing between them.

They knew Bella had recently gone through a difficult breakup.

Now seeing her hold a letter from an ex was enough to spark protective instinct in both of them.

Without saying a word, both her mother and sister went to her side and hugged her.

They didn’t know what to say.

They both wrapped their loving arms around Bella.

“What happened to you sweetie? Tell me more about it.” Sandra spoke.

“Basically mom, I’ve been physically, mentally, and emotionally abused by Brian for three years. I’ve suffered in silence to keep my life. When we were in Paris for the Olympic games, he beat me so badly I ran away from him. I ran out of our hotel room into the hotel lobby. That’s where Adonis found me and saved me. Brian found and kidnapped me, holding me hostage for a few hours.. Adonis called the Federal law enforcement to search for me until I was found. Malik was our bodyguard when I slipped away from Adonis’ hotel room. Since he was the bodyguard on duty, Adonis fired him. He blamed him for me being kidnapped. Even though it was my fault because I left without telling anyone. I knew better but I didn’t think Brian would still be looking for me. I was wrong and I paid for my disobedience with more abuse while I was held hostage. He even put a gun to my head and threatened to kill me. I was scared but God heard my prayers. The police found me, and I went back to Adonis. Adonis has treated me like a princess from day one. I’ve been truly blessed to have him. At first, I wouldn’t dare move in with another man, but the way he pursued me, I couldn’t resist.”

“I’m sorry to hear you endured that trauma from Brian. I wish I’d known before now. I would’ve done something to help you. I’m just happy my baby girl survived. Now you’re able to tell your story and help someone else. It could’ve been worse. Lord, we thank you. We give God all the glory.” Mama Vonshire responded, throwing up her hand in praise.

“At least God blessed you with a better man. Sis, I’m sorry but that man Adonis is fine. He’s the star player of the Dallas Maverick. I also read his recent GQ article, he’s an intelligent business owner. You’re winning with him. The only thing you’ll have to worry about is keeping the ladies off him.” They both burst out laughing from Samantha’s statement.

She couldn’t deny her sister from acknowledging her man.

Adonis was different.

He was a Godly man with Godly values.

Therefore, she didn’t worry about competing with another woman.

∞∞∞

The house had a unique layout, with a sturdy wall separating the kitchen from the living room.

Though the two rooms were in close proximity, the wall created a natural divide, giving each space its own sense of privacy.

The kitchen, with its soft hum of appliances, was tucked away from the more open, cozy living room.

“Are y’all alright over there? It’s too quiet. I want to make sure Malik isn’t over there upsetting my man.” Bella stood up and asked.

“Of course, we’re good. First off, you know my hands are trained in boxing. I think Malik knows not to try me.” They both clanked their beers, continuing their conversation.

“You’re a lucky man. You got fired from one job and immediately began working for the University of South Carolina. How did you do it?”

“Man, it was God’s favor. I was devastated when you fired me. I’m not gone lie. I went back home and asked God in prayer to put me in a better position. I told God about all my wants and needs. I even told God about the woman I wanted in my life. After putting in tons of applications, I got a call the next day. I flew in for the interview and was hired immediately. I met Samantha while she was working out. She was in the gym attempting shots and missed one. I caught the basketball and threw it back to her and we started talking from there.”

“Basically, you were flirting on the job. He chuckled.“See…

You never stay focused on the job.

You can’t blame me for firing you.

I’m just kidding man.

My fault for firing you.

I was upset Bella was kidnapped.

Thankfully, we were able to get her back safely.

I went crazy searching for her all over the hotel.

”

“It’s all good, bossman. I understand. I would’ve done the same if it was Samantha. She’s truly special to me.” Malik replied and shook hands with Adonis in truce.

Mama Vonshire took notice of Kybella fidgeting.

She raised a brow in concern.

“Kybella Vonshire what is going on with you? Why are you acting nervous? Do you have anything else you’d like to share with us tonight?”

She could always tell when something was wrong with her daughters.

It was her discernment and mother’s instinct that kept her in tune.

Mother Vonshire’ s discernment always kept her daughters out of trouble when they were teenagers.

It was like she’d had an antenna to know if they were planning to sneak out.

Bella thought about the times her mother caught them sneaking out for a party.

Both sisters would have on their mother’s perfume and makeup.

She’d make them clean their faces and work to replace her favorite Dior perfume.

They couldn’t keep their door closed after getting caught trying to sneak out.

Afterwards, she’d have them on every church committee to occupy their time.

Bella decided to tell them the real reason for the visit.

“Have a seat mom, I have something to tell you. I didn’t ask you to visit me to tell you about my abusive relationship with Brian. The real reason I’ve asked you to come is for your support. I- I- I, um. I have signs of cervical cancer.” Her mother gasped.

“I want you both to fly in the morning of my treatment I’m having a cancer treatment. I didn’t want to go through it without y’all.”

“Baby, I’m sorry. Oh my God. I had no idea. Yes, we’ll be there with you. Come here my baby.” Mama Vonshire held Bella tightly in her arms.

She cried in her mother’s arms.

Samantha rubbed her leg to assure her she was there.

“Don’t cry. My God is a healer. He’ll heal you. She began to pray over Bella and speak in tongues. Samatha touched and agreed with the prayer. The men gathered around them and joined in prayer too. The Holy Spirit was in the room. After praying, Bella wiped her eyes. Having her family there made her feel better. She became hopeful that she could fight cancer.

The next morning

The alarm rang and Bella hit snooze. She fell back on the bed and sighed. She looked to the side of her and saw the bed was empty. The aroma in the air smelled like bacon and coffee. She wanted to sleep a little while longer, but she had to make it on time for her doctor’s appointment. Wiping her eyelids, she stretched and put on her robe to walk downstairs. To her surprise, she saw her mother cooking breakfast. Adonis, Samantha, and Malik were all waiting at the table for the food. “Well, good morning beautiful!

Have a seat for some bacon, eggs, and pancakes.

”

“I tried to tell her that Mr. Davis could make breakfast babe, but she insisted on cooking. Your mom is a tough cookie. I hope you slept well. We have a full day ahead of us today.”

“I did sleep well but I was surprised to wake up in bed alone. I’d rather stay in bed all day than receive an awful cancer treatment.” Mama Vonshire began to play gospel music to lighten the mood.

“Oh, God! Mama it’s too early for loud gospel music. I see you still wake up blasting gospel music like you did while we were growing up. I knew once you cut it on it meant it was time to wake up and clean the house.”

Adonis reached out for Bella to give her a hug.

He gave her a soft kiss on the forehead as well.

“Stop fussing baby. We’re going to have a good day. Eat your food, so we can go.”

Bella ate her food in silence.

Her family tried everything to cheer her up, but nothing worked.

She touched her head like she was in pain.

“Baby, are you alright?” Adonis asked.

“My head is in excruciating pain. Can you please hand me a couple of ibuprofen pills?” As she went for the pills she fell back into his arms.

“Bella!” Adonis yelled.

“Oh no, let’s get her to the hospital. I think she fainted.”

Everything faded for Bella.

Somewhere in the dark she thought she heard the stove click off.

She felt her mama’s hands on her.

Maybe she grabbed her purse.

Maybe she prayed asking God to heal her.

Maybe she dreamed it all.

The car was silent all the way to the doctor’s office.

Everyone was in the car nervous in anticipation of Bella’s health.

Adonis sped up the highway to get to the hospital quickly.

The silence was killing him.

He just wanted to make it to see a doctor.

He parked in an emergency parking spot and picked her up like a newborn baby in his arms.

“We need to see the doctor now. She just passed out. Can someone please go to get a doctor now!” Adonis yelled at the front desk nurse.

“Calm down, sir. Please fill out the paperwork. I need her I.D. and insurance card. Go ahead and put her in emergency room one. Only two people can go in the room with her.” The nurse pleaded.

Mama Vonshire looked disappointed, so he urged her to come along with them.

Samantha and Malik took a seat in the waiting room.

Samantha paced the hospital floor.

Anxious thoughts ran through her head.

She was worried about her sister.

They were always close sisters.

Their mother taught them to stick together.

Whenever she caught them fussing, she would tie them together to work things out.

It taught them to love each other unconditionally.

Malik stepped toward her and grabbed her hand, pulling her to sit.

“She’ll be alright Samantha. When I worked as her bodyguard, I noticed her resilience and tenacity. I watched the new report about her overcoming a severe beating and hostage situation. She’ll fight through her illness and beat cancer too.”

“I hope so Malik. I didn’t even know my sister was going through an abusive relationship. We used to talk as much as we could. I became busy with work and couldn’t talk to her every day. It’s my fault. If I were a better sister, then my sister wouldn’t have gotten sick.” Samantha clenched her fist and swung jabs into the air.

Malik grabbed her into his arms and held her tight to calm her down.

Meanwhile, Mama Vonshire was in the room filling out the paperwork.

Adonis sat on the hospital bed with Kybella stroking her hair.

She began to open her eyes.

“Where am I?” She whispered while squinting her eyes for clear sight of the room.

The scent of Adonis’s cologne made her hold her hand out for him.

She knew he was nearby since his scent lingered in the air.

“Baby, you passed out at home. We brought you to the hospital. We’re waiting for the doctor to come in to check you now.”

“I don’t understand why I keep going through so much suffering. What did I do to deserve all these problems, Lord?” Adonis shook his head.

His mouth was agape, contemplating a response.

“Darling, you didn’t do anything wrong. We all suffer for a little while, but joy comes in the morning. Mama Vonshire chimed in to respond.

Before she could reply, there was a knock on the door. “Hello, I’m Doctor Frasier.

I’m just going to scan your bracelet really quick.

” ” He announced while peeping over his glasses looking at his clip board.

He extended his hand gently toward her wrist, waiting for her to offer the hospital band.

“Yes, sir.” She extended her arm out to allow him to scan her hospital band and sat up in bed.

“I heard you had a fainting spell. What are you doing scaring your family? He chuckled. Let me check your breathing.” The doctor put his stethoscope over her heart.

After a few minutes of listening he responded, “Your breathing sounds good. I’ll check your blood pressure.” The doctor put the cuff over her arm to receive a blood pressure reading.

“Your blood pressure is elevated, one forty over ninety. You may have fainted from high stress levels. Normally the nurse would’ve collected your information, but we’re a little short-staffed today, so I’m handling some of my patient care. “Did you have a headache before you fainted this morning?

”

“Yes, as a matter of fact my head was banging.” Bella responded.

“For my many years of practicing as a doctor I can conclude that the emotional stress of coming to the doctor for the cancer treatment spiked your blood pressure.”

“I am scared and upset still. I don’t want to endure cancer treatments. I don’t want my hair to fall out or become a burden on my family.”

“I’ll have my nurse come in to draw some blood from you. We’ll run some tests to check your blood levels. After the test results are back, then I’ll return to see you.” The doctor spoke and patted her on the arm.

He had an old, kind soul.

His spirit shined bright and made her feel a little better.

”

“Maybe it was your mother’s cooking. After you took a bite of her bacon you complained of having a headache.” Everyone burst into laughter except for Sandra.

“She’s never complained about my cooking before. My cooking made her into a strong and healthy WNBA player. I think you’re mistaken darling.” She responded and turned her nose up.

“Mama, he’s only playing with you. Adonis is quite a jokester. It’s his way of lightening the mood. Don’t take him seriously. We love your cooking.” The nurse came into the room with her bucket of needles.

Bella’s smile turned into a somber look.

“Hi, I’m Kelly. I’ll draw some blood from you. I’ll need about four vials. I’ll also need to insert an IV to give you fluids. I can tell from your cracked lips that you’re dehydrated.” She announced.

Bella nodded her head in agreement.

Adonis held her hand while the nurse took the blood.

It was hard inserting the IV but after three attempts it was inserted successfully.

“We have advanced technology lab equipment called Stat labs that can allow doctors to have results in under an hour. So, the doctor will return soon with your results. If you need anything, push the call button.”

Adonis tapped his fingers out of boredom.

He took out his phone to check for messages.

While checking his phone, Twitter gave a notification.

The NBA’s twitter account made an announcement.

Brian Porter has been suspended from the NBA indefinitely.

He is being charged and held in Paris jail awaiting trial on Murder-for-hire, domestic violence, assault, and kidnapping charges.

Although Brian had been in custody for over a month, the story has been kept under wraps, no official charges had been announced.

The team and league had remained tight-lipped.

But now, with court documents finally made public, the media couldn’t ignore it any longer.

The news had broken late, but loud.

He went on to read the comments.

He was stunned by the many negative comments against Brian.

A lot of women bashed him for the domestic allegations and supported the NBA for taking a stand against the violence.

“Game, why are you so quiet? Let me see what you’re looking at on your phone.” She moved his hand and grabbed his phone.

She read the tweet and read one comment that said, His girl Kybella got what she deserved.

She slammed the phone down.

“Honey don’t pay it any mind. You know you didn’t deserve it.” The monitors began to beep, signaling an abnormality in her vital signs.

“I’m sorry. I shouldn’t have been on my phone. Baby, please don’t cry.” Adonis pleaded while rubbing her shoulders.

“It’s not your fault, Game.”

“Are you alright in here?” Nurse Kelly asked as she checked the numbers on the monitor.

Bella merely looked at the nurse and nodded her head.

She didn’t respond and silence filled the room once the monitor stopped.

She laid back and closed her eyes.

The dream she’d had the night before made sense.

In her dream, a crowd of people stood around her pointing and laughing.

Some people threw rocks and stones at her.

Maybe the dream meant people with sin were casting stones at her.

They were judging her about a situation surrounding their favorite basketball player.

Brian was loved by some and hated by many.

After reading the tweet, Bella knew she needed to prepare for the worst at Brian’s trial.

She sighed heavily.

“Don’t worry about the trial next week. We’ll have a grand opening at your new bakery.”

“Excuse me, did I hear him say you have a new bakery?” Mama Vonshire asked.

Bella leaned up and smiled.

“Oh yeah mama, I forgot to tell you. I am the proud owner of a new bakery. It’s called, Love At First Bite. I can’t wait to show it to you once renovations are done. I love it already!”

“Aw, see Kybella. I told you that suffering doesn’t last long. After all the suffering, you found the courage to start a new venture. I remember buying you an Easy Bake Oven for Christmas when you were a kid. After that you would watch me bake cakes in the kitchen and imitate me. It was the cutest thing. Then when you became older your father brought you a basketball. You found love for the basketball game. You imitated both of us while we practiced at home. You see your love for both of us allowed you to learn both our passions. You were so smart that you mastered baking and basketball. God doesn’t give us just one gift. He gives us multiple gifts. I’m proud of you.”

Bella wiped her tears with her gown and began to laugh.

She was happy to have her mother there.

Just like that, she’d made her somber mood go away.

Seeing her use her gown to wipe her face, her mom spotted a sign for supplies and went to grab some towels, then used one to run a washcloth under the hot water.

She gently wiped her daughter’s face.

She pulled a hairbrush from her purse to gently brush her daughter’s hair.

As she brushed Bella’s hair, there was a knock at the door.

“It’s me, Dr. Frasier. I have some good and bad news to share with you.” He announced as he pulled the stool closer to Bella’s bedside.

The room was filled with silence as everyone leaned in to hear the doctor.

“Before we talk, I want to ask would you like me to share your medical update with everyone here or would you prefer to speak privately?” The room stilled for a moment.

Her gaze shifted from the doctor to her visitors, then back again.

She gave a small nod, her voice steady but calm.

“It’s okay. You can talk in front of them.”

I’ll go ahead and give you the bad news first.

You have high blood pressure along with high cholesterol levels.

During your pelvic exam in Paris it was detected your uterus was enlarged.

You also have two giant size fibroids that I would like to get rid of with a surgery procedure because they will impact your quality of life.

My only conclusion is that you fainted from stress.

I’m ordering you to rest quietly for the rest of the day, and avoid strenuous exercise for at least 48 hours, and drink plenty of fluids.

No heavy work for you.

” Bella put her hand on her heart distraught from the word surgery , sighing heavily.

She mShe mumbled.

“Do I have to take the surgery route? I’d rather take a more holistic route to get rid of the fibroids.” “Okay, we ran the tests and the results were shocking. I know you told me the hospital in Paris told you that you have signs of cervical cancer. I don’t know if you had a quack doctor, or a miracle happened but I’m here to tell you the cancer is gone!” I would suggest you have another doctor’s visit to thoroughly test to make sure you haven’t received another misdiagnosis.

”

“Doctor Fraiser, are you serious? I don’t have any signs of cancer anymore?”

“Right, sweetheart. You’re cancer free. The Paris hospital must of made a clinical mistake. When the pelvic exam was performed in Paris scarring tissue may have been found. A tumor did not develop in your cervix. So, I can believe the initial report of cancer. I want to go head and give you the test results now before discharge since we are short staff. My recommendation is for you to have surgery to remove your fibroids. I would like to set up a follow-up appointment with you to discuss specific dates for surgery. During the follow-up appointment with you, we will discuss specific information about what’s to be expected during the surgery. We will also discuss all the steps that will need to be taken prior to the actual surgery. So please stop by the my nurse’s desk to set up your follow up appointment with me. Take care of yourself.”

As he left the room Mama Vonshire and Adonis gave Bella a hug.

“Praise God! Thank you, Jesus for healing my baby!” Sandra yelled.

She threw her hands up rejoicing.

Afterwards, she left the room to gather Samantha and Malik.

Adonis continued to hug Bella while giving her a kiss.

“You did it. You beat cancer. I don’t know how, but you did it.” He smiled from ear to ear.

It was the biggest smile she’d ever seen on his face.

It brought her joy to see her man happy for her.

Since the doctor just discharged her, Sandra came into the room with Samantha and Malik.

“Bella has something to tell y’all. Well, go ahead tell them.”

She raised up from the bed.

“The doctor told me that the tumors in my cervix are benign. I’m cancer free now. I have two fibroids, and he wants to do a surgical procedure to remove them. I also have high blood pressure and cholesterol. The main illness is gone by the grace of God!”

“Aw, big sister, I’m grateful to hear it. We prayed that God would heal you and God did his big one! I’ll call you every day to make sure you’re eating a healthy diet.”

Mama Vonshire looked confused by Samantha’s slang.

Even still, she rejoiced with them.

Even Malik was happy about the good news.

“

“Oh, since arriving at Adonis’s house I noticed the open patch of land beside it, perfect for a garden.

It’s all the space I need.

From now on, I’ll eat things from what I can grow in my garden.

” She giggled.

“I can’t wait for the nursing staff to discharge me from this depressing hospital. I want to enjoy my family before its time to take y’all back to the airport.”

“Speaking of spending time with family. I was thinking I should move closer to you now. Your recent health scare has made me aware that we’ve been separated for too long. I can buy a house in Dallas closer to you. What do you think darling?” Mama Vonshire asked.

“I would love to have you closer to me. We can start looking tonight mom! She looked at Adonis. I know we just got here, but is it alright if my mom stays with us in the meantime?

“Um, sure.

She can stay with us.

I don’t have a problem with it.

” He smiled.

“Thank you for the offer but I’m used to my own space. I want to buy a small home or townhouse near you. I’m hoping he will take your hand in marriage and then afterwards maybe a grandbaby or two.”.

” She winked her eye.

“I know you’ve only been together a month, but time flies, you never know.”

“Come on, let’s go. Now mom is talking about grandbabies. I’m already in the hospital for stress. You’re going to make me faint again.”

Adonis raised a brow at Bella’s response.

“Are you saying you don’t want any kids Kybella?” He inquired with his hand out.

“Oh, I didn’t mean I don’t want kids. I don’t even know if I can have children. Do you realize I was told that I had cancer? First, we need to discuss your thoughts on marriage before a conversation about having kids. We haven’t talked about marriage or kids yet, that’s all I’m saying. I would like to have a marriage first then a child.” She replied.

Adonis began to help her walk from the bed.

As the nurse escorted her out in a wheelchair for safety reasons, Bella looked back.

She took one last look at the room.

It was difficult to discuss having children.

Life was funny how fast it moved.

One minute she was trying to survive an abusive relationship, the next, she was trying to beat cancer.

Bella shook her head.

“This has been a journey. Thank you for being here by my side, Game.”

“I’m never leaving your side Kybella Vonshire.”