Page 60 of Russ

After attempting to greet everyone—including Mayor Harris and his wife, Desire, everyone who worked at Black Reign, and the Porters—our family insisted we say something on the mic. Rose insisted I go first.

“First of all, throwing us a reception on the day we were flying back into the country was risky as hell, but I’m glad nothing happened to stop us from celebrating our union with all of you. To my family, thank you for everything. Y’all rooted for us even when we questioned our future together. God has a way of working things out, and His timing is perfect. Baby, I didn’t plan to tell you this in front of an audience, but now is as good a time as any.”

“What are you talking about, Russell?”

“We are now officially the parents of Oaklyn Kennedi Rush. The adoption has been finalized.”

While everyone clapped and cheered, Rose looked confused, at first, then her eyes filled with tears before she covered her mouth with her hand. I held Oaklyn in one arm and pulled Rose into my body with the other. Everyone was excited, so it was loud, but we were in our own little bubble.

“Baby, are you serious?” she asked, lips quivering.

“Mayor Harris was able to pull some strings. We are officially Oaklyn’s parents.”

She looked at Oaklyn and said, “Do you hear that, sweet girl? You get to stay with us forever.”

“Daddy, tell Mommy don’t cry,” Oaklyn said, using her little hand to wipe Rose’s tears.

“Did she just call us . . .”

Rose couldn’t finish because she was overwhelmed with emotion. I had to fight like hell to hold back my tears. If I took my last breath today, I’d die the happiest man on Earth.Life is beautiful when you’re surrounded by love.

THE END