Page 87 of My Heart Belongs to You

“I don’t even remember. Probably said something witty which caused her to change the subject. You know she doesn’t want us depicted on TV as anything other than perfect.”

“Do you blame her?” I said with a mirthless laugh.

“Not at all. But she doesn’t need to create a storyline at my expense. I already don’t want to be on the show and last night didn’t help.”

“So, is this brunch going to be okay?” I wasn’t in the mood to referee my mom and sister today.

Raven picked up a bag of gummies from the table and smiled. “It’s going to be great. I’m not going to bring it up because today is still about you. I just needed to vent before she got here.”

“Come here,” I said, reaching for her arms. Raven sighed when I squeezed her. “Your feelings are valid, and if you decide to say something, I’ll back you up.”

She patted my back. “Thanks, baby sis.”

Raven hurried past me to go inside.

“You need a hand?” I called out

She waved me off, which was expected. While awaiting her return, I sipped my champagne and admired their view. Moments later, Raven returned with our mom closely behind her.

“Hey baby,” she squealed. Raven and I shared a look then laughed. My mom ignored us and hugged me like she hadn’t seen me less than twelve hours ago.

Unlike the lavish spread she made for me, Raven prepared my mom’s favorite dishes. We started with a strawberry salad, then eggs Florentine and French toast on challah. By the time she pulled out the mini berry Chantilly cake, I was ready for a nap. We kept things light, only talking about my parents' last trips and business ventures. I sighed in relief. We successfully ignored talking about the show.

“So, Robyn. I was expecting to meet someone last night.” My mom’s perceptive eyes were penetrating. I coughed, then reached for my drink. I spared a glance at Raven who was looking at her nails.

“Someone like?” I probed my mom for details.

“A new boyfriend or special friend.”

“Sorry to disappoint you.” I tried for humor.

“I just assumed since Raven said you took the engagement news better than expected.”

I laughed. “Actually, I didn’t take the news well. In fact, I cried my eyes out.”

Thinking back to that day stirred up mixed emotions. The news was gut wrenching considering all I went through with Terrance, but it was also the beginning of me being honest about my attraction to Nadir.

“Oh baby,” my mom said, rubbing my shoulder.

“I’m fine now. After the initial shock wore off, I realized he wasn’t meant to be my husband. Marriage was just one of the issues we had. He couldn’t even be there for me as a friend when I took my test.”

I thought about Nadir and how he was there for me every time I needed him. There wasn't a time I questioned his loyalty. Small and big gestures were met with the same intention.

“To answer your question, I am seeing someone you’ve already met, by the way.”

My mom’s eyes lit up. “Are they here or back home?”

“Here. Do you remember Nadir? You met him last time you visited. He owns a lounge and has helped me with B&B’s opening.”

“The one with the hair?” she asked, leaning closer.

Raven laughed then confirmed, “Mhm. That’s him.”

My sister happily reminded her that he’d surprised me in Portland and how instrumental he’d been with the opening. I sipped my champagne, pleased to hear such a glowing review from Raven.

“So you’re Team Nadir?” I questioned with a lifted brow.

She nodded. “Been, even before Joseph came around. Nadir is such a great person. I know you wanted to protect y’all’s friendship, but you two are such a good match.”