Unexpected Pass

by A. Blossom

Jazmine Sullivan appeared in the foyer and began singing our song “Let it Burn,” and Phileigh froze.

“Phileigh Cheese, I’ve loved you since that day I saw you posted up in that stairwell, hiding away from the world.” I took a deep breath to blow away my nerves. “You looked like you needed a friend. I didn’t know if it was really me that needed you and Baby J. Baby, you have brought me peace. You’ve made me a father. You’ve made me a better man. Baby, you made me believe that happiness isn’t just something other people get to have. It’s something I can have because I deserve it.”

“And proposed.” I grinned. “Had to remind you who your man is. I told you on day one this was our fairytale, baby.”

“The best fairytale ever.” She laughed through her tears as Vogue’s lead editor approached us with her camera crew trailing just behind her.

“I’ve known KB since before the cleats and contracts. I knew the version of him that ran from anything too deep, that didn’t open up, stayed in the house, and stayed to himself. You know? The type of nigga that pops out engaged and expecting a child overnight. Phileigh…” He turned to her. “Sis, you’ve gave him peace and purpose.” He paused. “And to my godson, you already got a father who would burn this whole world down behind you, and that’s a flex, kid.”

She’s more herself now than she’s ever been. And you, Kellon, that’s because of you. Thank you for showing her what real love is. I’m so proud of y’all.”

My son is my son in every way that matters—blood, bond, and love. End of story.”

Everything I never knew I needed came wrapped in faith, fate, and an unexpected pass I was lucky to have caught.