#woc | Explore Tumblr posts and blogs

classfiedyapper · 1 day ago

Text

LADS MEN SEEING YOU IN TRADITIONAL WEAR FOR THE FIRST TIME. (Desi version pt 2)

AN: Hey! So reposting again. Since last time I posted it got messed up and all that.

So yeah this is it, the awaited part two for our boys sylus and Caleb. Enjoy!

SFW, fluff, mildly suggestive (MDNI)

Remember: request are open!

PS: not proof read.

Caleb

it was the day of the festival and you were rushing around your home trying to get ready on time, threats of your father claiming to leave without every one booming through the house, falling deaf to your ears.

All because you were going with Caleb anyway since by now Caleb was part of the family, which meant he also got scolded by your parents, but it was rare since he was the golden child of the family. The one who had set the bar so high you and your siblings just couldn't reach.

once your parents leave Caleb who had taken your fathers to scold you for being so late burst through the doors of your room.

"hey pipsqueak!" he calls out,but whatever scolding remarks he had died in his throat the moment he laid his eyes on you, sure he had seen you in Kurti and long shirts from time to time but not like this, looking like a delicate flower wrapped in the most fanciest bouquet.

while you tried to fix your Sahara he gave you a once over, almost as if over analyzing each and every single thing about her. even the tiniest detail.

you were is wearing a soft mint green anarkali with delicate gold and peach embroidery. The skirt features detailed floral patterns with gold threadwork and small peach accents, especially along the lower portion, giving it a graceful and elegant look. The hemline is finished with a thick gold border.

The bodice is also mint green, with matching embroidery on the sleeves and front, blending seamlessly with the skirt. She is draped in a sheer mint green dupatta that has a gold trim, complementing the outfit’s design. The dupatta also features a striking ombre effect towards the end, transitioning into a warm rust-orange shade for a unique contrast.

"what ya staring at" you spoke from your vanity snapping him out of his trance.

he clears his throat "nothing, just did not knew you were a girl pipsqueak"

already annoyed with the world you could not take his teasing sarcasm well and there one of your heel right at him that he easily catches .

"ooof still stuck on that?"

"obviously"

you helplessly put another bobby pin in hopes it will keep it up but to no avail.

Caleb was not going to sit here and see you struggle so he walked over "looks like I gotta help you out with this too" he sighs and takes charge of the situation while you sit there without complaints, you look at him through the reflection. you watch him as he is laser focused on doing up your hair, he was methodological even while doing simple tasks like such, he was so reliable always willing to help you no matter how big or small. you felt a wave of affection for him. "done!" he spoke and you looked at yourself he had fixed it so neatly you were surprised, guess he was rightfully the golden child.

"thank you Caleb, seriously." you sayturni g your vanity chair to face him.

Caleb steps back, his head tilted as he marvels at you "beautiful...really beautiful" he says making you blush slightly, and before you could say anything Caleb was already kneeling in front of you, to put on the heel you had threw on his face. "Caleb its okay I can-"

"please" he says with such pleading eyes you could not say no to him....

you can never say no to him

you watch as he he puts it on. your heart betrays you by beating so loud for your best friend. the shades of pink on your cheek turns darker and stand up quickly as soon he was done, he follows suit, that blush does not escape his sight and he just could not let it pass.

"my my, look at you pips, blushing so hard, is it cuz of me" he grins and you scoff as if it was some and not the cold hard truth, lie he was spewing, you raise your hand to smack him "you wish you giant goofball" but before you could hit he grabs your wrist and pulls you flush into him.

you gasp softly up at him cursing the fact you loved the closeness "uhm..Caleb" your voice softens as twisting your wrist to set it free but his trip was as firm as it was gentle.

"relax" he says fetching orange gajray from the coat pocket slipping it on her wrist, he knew you loved them so how could he not.

"prettiest flowers, for my favorite girl" he says kissing the top of your head "now let's go pips.

And so begin the story of two lovers who were always just right for eachother

Sylus

your first birthday together and sylus had went all out. from renting out to amusement parks and theaters to romantic dinner at a yacht,he had it planned it all, and that was after you told him you wanted something small and intimate, you however had not taken in account of the fact that sylus's definition of intimate was much different then normal people's.

your day was spent going all around the city on his bike, doing everything he had planned for you.

when the sky darkens, he drops you off at home before leaving he tells you to get ready so that the twins could drop you off at the yacht. sylus had went there first in order to make sure everything was planned accordingly.

when you walked in to your room you saw a huge gift box set on the bed with a hand written note on top.

for the prettiest girl, and the love of my life.

have some pity on this love sick fool and wear this tonight.

sylus.

you grinned to yourself and pressed a kiss on the note, slipping it inside your diary. everything sylus ever gave you no matter what it was, it was nothing short of a treasure for you and so you keep ever single thing close to your heart.

The gift box contained everything, from branded makeup to expensive accessories and a very beautiful wine red Saree. sylus had it all arranged for you flying out the twins to your country to get them for you, no wonder the twin were gone for so damn long.

the need to see sylus again and kiss his face silly, urged you into getting ready as soon as possible.

The twins, as promised brought you to the yacht which was well decorated with fairy lights and red roses, there was a table for two in the middle and on the other end, sylus stands with his back on you, stating at the vast sea, he was lost in his thought most of them surrounding his beloved you.

the clicks of your heels makes him turn around snapping him out, his ruby red eyes now laser focused on you, clad in everything he had given you and the thought alone made sylus' heart throb.

she was wearing a rich red wine saree with gold detailing. The saree features small gold motifs scattered across the fabric in a classic fashion. The border is wide and heavily decorated with intricate gold patterns.

The blouse is maroon with short sleeves, and it has a subtle gold design on the edges that matches the saree’s border.

he had gotten her some with bold silver jewelry, including a choker necklace and large square-shaped jhumkas. a stack of Bengal on her wrist to complete the over all look.

To say that sylus was taken back by the sheer force of her beauty, that was increased ten folds by the traditional charm was an under statement.

when you stop right in front of him, he doesn't spare a second before reaching out, his strong arm wraps around his waist as he pulls her flush into him "looks like my kitten finally learned to take orders" he says, his tone had the playful lightness as usual that he only used with you whenever he got the chance to tease you.

when you scoff he only smirks "so the only thing you liked about me tonight is that I followed your....'orders' " you retort with a scoff, earning a dry chuckle from him. "hmm so you wanna know what I like about you tonight" his arm that was on your waist dips lower till your thigh, picking you up effortlessly with one arm.

"well of course" you cross your arm allowing him to man handle you, his steps taking you the table where he sets you down on the table, taking a seat in the chair in front of her. His eyes raking your form once again. "well, sweetie I love how this color makes your doing look so sinfully delicious." he leans down to kiss the skin of your waist peeking out from under the blouse.

a soft gasp escape your lips, sylus looks up at you "how much I want to unwrap my present now that its placed right in front of me" his fingers cascade down on your pallu wanting nothing more then to peel t right off. His intentions being clear as the summer skies when it came to his desire for you, how he wanted to make love to you, wearing nothing but jewels he gave you.

your poor little heart couldn't take his intensity, you had to distract yourself, distract him.

"uhm sy, what-what are we having to dinner?"

"you can have anything you want, I am gonna have you".

89 notes · View notes

xoxorealitygalore · 3 hours ago

Text

Plan B 6

Jey Uso x Afro-Brazilian OC

Summary: In her thirties and single after a breakup, Hamisa decides she wants to become a mother, despite her friends' and family's objections. Unable to wait any longer, she chooses to have a baby on her own. However, she unknowingly ends up using her ex-boyfriend sperm after he drunkenly swapped her donor’s sample for his own. As Hamisa raises her child, she starts noticing striking similarities between her ex-boyfriend and her baby, leading to questions about the true origins of her child's conception.

Plan B Masterlist

Taglist: @xbriexx @christinabae @blackchickinthedesert @princess-saki1 @skyesthebomb @raya-hunter01 @theusotwinzcom @yana3sworld @mindairy @wwecrazed2010

Hamisa sat quietly in Joshua’s living room, her eyes trailing over the peaceful scene unfolding before her as Jhream crawled after Jeyce, chasing him, and the warmth of the home and the soft chatter in the background seemed to lull her into a moment of calm.

Jhream's chubby little hands clung to the soft rug beneath her, her tiny pitter-pattering across the floor as Jeyce teased her with gentle tickles. Hamisa couldn’t help but smile at the innocence of the moment, yet, her thoughts kept drifting to the reason she was there.

Talisua, Joshua's mother, was sitting across from Hamisa on the other sofa. The older woman looked at her with a kind, almost maternal gaze that Hamisa had grown used to over the years, and yet it was still something that always made her feel a little uneasy.

Talisua had always been more than Joshua’s mother to her. In a strange, maternal way, she had always been someone Hamisa could rely on. Someone who had always seemed to care for her, despite the occasional tension between them. But today, there was something different in Talisua's demeanor, something more intense, more purposeful.

With a soft sigh, Talisua broke the comfortable silence. “Hamisa, we need to talk about Jhream’s first birthday party.”

Hamisa blinked, momentarily taken aback by the request. She looked down at her hands, fiddling with the edge of her sleeve.

A party? For Jhream? It seemed a bit early to be talking about it, at least, in Hamisa’s opinion. After all, the baby’s first birthday wasn’t for another three months. It was, in her mind, still far too distant to be concerning herself with it now.

Talisua, however, seemed insistent. “We need to start planning, sooner rather than later,” she said, the seriousness in her tone unmistakable.

Hamisa was about to protest, but as she glanced over at her daughter, crawling and cooing innocently at Jeyce, she realized how much time had already passed.

Perhaps Talisua was right.

Perhaps it was time to start planning. But she couldn’t help but feel a little overwhelmed. The idea of planning a grand celebration for a baby who wouldn’t even remember it felt a bit over the top, but she knew it was important to Talisua.

And truthfully, it was important to Joshua as well.

As if on cue, Joshua’s voice interrupted the conversation. His Zoom meeting with WWE executives was finally over, and he had made his way into the living room, where his daughter immediately bounced in excitement at the sight of him.

The change in Jhream’s expression when she saw her father was instant, her little hands reached out toward him, and she squealed happily, her baby voice carrying across the room. Joshua, grinning from ear to ear, leaned down and scooped her into his arms, her tiny body wrapping around him with joyful affection.

“You’ve got a way with her,” Talisua said, watching the interaction with a knowing smile. Her words were soft but filled with emotion. It warmed Hamisa’s heart to see Joshua so at ease with their daughter, and she couldn’t deny the joy that filled her chest as she watched the little girl clinging to her father.

“Yeah, she’s a daddy’s girl,” Joshua chuckled, settling onto the sofa next to Hamisa. He adjusted Jhream on his lap, letting her bounce and babble on his knees. “How’s the planning going? What’s the budget looking like?”

Hamisa looked over at him, surprised at how casual the conversation was becoming. She slid her legs onto his lap, a gesture so natural that it felt as though no time had passed at all. Despite their differences and the years of separation, moments like these still seemed familiar, as if their bond had never truly been broken.

Talisua smiled as she watched the two of them. She couldn’t help but feel a sense of hope blooming in her chest. She had always known that Joshua and Hamisa made a beautiful couple. They had once been so happy, so in love. It had been heartbreaking for her to see them fall apart, especially when their separation had been over something so trivial as the direction their relationship should take.

Now, though, with Jhream in the picture, Talisua couldn’t help but wonder if the bond between them could be rekindled. Perhaps co-parenting would bring them back together, even if just for the sake of their daughter.

“The budget is nonexistent,” Hamisa teased, her voice light, but with an undertone of truth. “Jhream has very expensive taste.”

Joshua laughed. “Just like her mama,” he replied, a playful smile dancing on his lips.

Talisua didn’t miss the exchange. She had been waiting for this moment, the perfect opportunity to voice her thoughts. Leaning forward slightly, she added, “You know what else would be expensive but worth it?”

Hamisa and Joshua both looked at her, their curiosity piqued.

Talisua’s smile grew mischievous. “A wedding.”

Hamisa froze, her heart skipping a beat. Her eyes widened in disbelief, and she glanced at Joshua, who was already looking at his mother in shock.

“Ma,” Joshua said, his voice a mixture of surprise and warning.

Talisua, however, tried to play innocent, her face the picture of feigned confusion. “What? It’s something to think about. Jhream would make such a pretty flower girl,” she said, her voice light and teasing.

Hamisa couldn’t breathe. The room seemed to close in on her, and she suddenly felt very exposed, as though the walls were closing in around her. A wedding? The thought was overwhelming. It was something she hadn’t considered. Not in the way that Talisua was suggesting, at least.

Joshua, ever the protective son, shook his head. “Ma, please don’t.”

But Talisua was relentless. “What? The way you two were all over each other at Hamisa’s birthday party last Saturday. Do not tell me you’re not still in love with each other. You can’t deny it.”

The words stung more than Hamisa cared to admit. Her heart began to race as memories of that night flooded her mind. Her birthday, Joshua’s touch, their closeness, the way he had looked at her. It all felt so vivid and real. But now, in the cold light of day, the possibility of rebuilding their relationship felt like an impossible mountain to climb.

“Ma, please,” Joshua said again, his voice firm.

Hamisa could only stare at him, trying to find the right words, but nothing came out. And then, just as quickly as the tension had risen, it seemed to deflate as Talisua stood up, reaching for Jhream. The little girl, oblivious to the adult drama, immediately reached out for her grandmother, her tiny hands extended with trust and affection.

“Come on, give me my grandbaby,” Talisua said, a playful note in her voice. “You two can sit here and be in denial, but I’m going to go check on my other grandbaby.”

As Talisua walked off, Hamisa couldn’t shake the feeling that something had shifted between her and Joshua. She turned to face him, her voice quiet but laced with a need for resolution. “So, you’re not gonna say anything?”

Joshua met her gaze, his expression serious, and for the first time in a long while, Hamisa felt as if the words he spoke would finally bring them clarity.

“What do you want me to say, Hamisa?” Joshua’s voice was soft but tinged with emotion. “My mother’s right. We still love each other. I know I was wrong for breaking up with you. I did something dumb, but it was also something that ended up being pretty good for us because we have Jhream now.” He paused, his eyes locking onto hers. “I want another chance with you. I love you.”

Hamisa’s throat tightened, and she looked down at her hands, unsure of what to say. The emotions coursing through her were overwhelming, and she couldn’t quite find the strength to respond. But after a moment, she whispered, her voice barely above a breath, “I love you too.”

Joshua leaned forward, his eyes searching hers. “So, what are we doing?”

“I have to think about it,” Hamisa replied, her voice steady but uncertain. “I don’t want you to change your mind.”

“I won’t,” Joshua promised, his gaze never leaving hers. “I won’t.”

Later that evening, Hamisa found herself at a bachelorette party for her cousin, Claudia. The music pounded through the walls of the club, the lights flashing in rhythm with the beats, and the energy was palpable. Claudia, the bride-to-be, was at the center of the celebration, her infectious laughter ringing through the air. But despite the joyous occasion, Hamisa couldn’t shake the thoughts of what had transpired earlier.

Hours later, back at the hotel, the group had decided to keep the party going with a game of Never Have I Ever. Hamisa wasn’t in the mood for games, but as the bridesmaid, she stayed to support her cousin. Claudia’s maid of honor, Chinenye, went first, and what started as a harmless game quickly took a sharp turn.

“Never have I ever had a baby to keep a man,” Chinenye said, her eyes glinting as she directed the question at Hamisa.

The room went silent. Hamisa’s heart skipped a beat, and she felt the sting of Chinenye’s words. It wasn’t a subtle jab. No, it was a direct shot. And the weight of it felt heavier than it had any right to.

Claudia, sensing the tension, immediately stepped in. “Chinenye, you’re wrong. Don’t start shit tonight,” she said, her voice firm but protective.

But Chinenye, undeterred, shrugged nonchalantly. “I’m not starting anything. Just telling it like it is.”

Hamisa’s sister, Belmira, immediately jumped to her defense. “Chinenye, knock it off,” she said, her voice laced with irritation.

Hamisa, exhausted and fed up with the constant tension, stood up, her gaze never leaving Chinenye. “Let’s just get this out of our systems,” she said, her tone calm but firm. “This is Claudia’s wedding week, and I’m done pretending like everything is fine between me and you.”

Chinenye’s expression darkened. “What are you trying to do?”

Hamisa’s lips curled into a slight smile, one that held no warmth. “You know what it is. Run this fade. You’ve had a problem with me ever since you found out I dated Mike in college. Let’s fight it out and move on.”

The room went still. Everyone stood up, trying to separate the two women, but Hamisa was determined. She wouldn’t let Chinenye’s passive-aggressive attitude slide anymore. Not this time.

“Girl, you're insane. Why would I tell you about an ex from twelve years ago?” Hamisa shot back. “You married him and you’re still worried about some college relationship? Seek help.”

The words hit like a punch to the gut. The room went silent as Hamisa’s retort hung in the air. For years, she had put up with Chinenye’s underhanded comments and jealous remarks, but now? Now, she was done.

Chinenye decides to square up with Hamisa. Hamisa squares up before dashing into Chinenye, causing them to fall to the ground and punch Chinenye in the face four times before Chinenye pushes Hamisa off of her.

Chinenye swings but misses then Hamisa punches her in the face five times while Chinenye bashes her on the side of her head twice and Hamisa hits her again before the rest of the women get between them and pulls them away from each other.

The atmosphere inside the hotel suite was thick with tension, every corner of the room heavy with the weight of unsaid words, lingering emotions, and the simmering anger that was now finally on the verge of exploding.

The sound of muffled voices, raised in argument, filtered through the closed door, each exchange carrying more heat than the last.

Inside, the two women were locked in a verbal sparring match, neither willing to back down. Hamisa, furious beyond belief, had come to her breaking point. Chinenye, who had spent the better part of the evening digging into her and goading her at every opportunity, was now face to face with a woman ready to snap.

Outside the door, Chika stood in silence, her phone held tightly in her hand as she typed a message. Her brow furrowed in concern, fingers flying across the screen as she sent a quick text to her husband, Jeremiah. Her gut told her that her brother-in-law, Joshua needed to intervene before Hamisa went to jail tonight for beating Chinenye up all night.

Within moments, Joshua and Jeremiah, appeared in the hallway, rushing toward the suite. Joshua's face was a study of determination, his broad shoulders set with purpose as he glanced over at Chika, whose worried expression mirrored his own. With a quick nod, he shoved open the door.

The scene inside was chaotic. Hamisa was already moving toward Chinenye, her hands clenched into fists, her eyes blazing with fury. She was ready to charge, the anger in her body language evident in every step she took. Her breath came in shallow bursts, every muscle in her body coiled tight, ready for an explosion of force. She couldn’t take it anymore. Chinenye had crossed a line.

But before Hamisa could close the distance between them, Joshua was there. He moved like lightning, his strength unmistakable as he reached out and grabbed her by the waist, lifting her with surprising ease. Hamisa let out a startled gasp, her body instinctively wriggling as she was thrown over Joshua’s shoulder. The shift in position only fueled her rage. She kicked her legs in the air, trying to break free, but Joshua held firm, ignoring the frantic movements.

"Joshua!" Hamisa barked, her voice dripping with frustration. "Put me down! I’m not done with her!" Her eyes still locked on Chinenye, who stood across the room, now slightly taken aback by the sudden intervention.

But Joshua remained calm. His grip was unyielding, his stance steady. He had been through enough of these situations to know that sometimes, the best thing to do was get the person out of the situation entirely before they did something they would regret.

“Hamisa, stop,” he said, his voice low, but firm. His footsteps echoed in the corridor as he moved her away from the suite. He didn’t even glance back at anyone, nor did he need to. He had seen the scene for himself and knew the kind of fire that had been sparked.

Outside the hotel suite, the quiet hall seemed almost surreal after the storm inside. Joshua set Hamisa down gently, his hands still on her arms to steady her as she regained her balance. She spun around, fury still radiating off her like heat waves. Her breath was rapid, her chest rising and falling as she struggled to contain the storm brewing within her.

"Why were you fighting?" Joshua asked, his voice calmer now, though there was an edge of concern beneath the surface. He could feel the tension in her, the way her body still vibrated with the adrenaline of the confrontation. But he wasn’t going to let her lash out again.

Hamisa’s eyes burned with resentment as she glared at him. “Chinenye’s been picking on me all night. I didn’t even start it, Josh. But she wouldn’t stop, and then she said I had Jhream to keep you and that was the last straw for me.”

Joshua’s brows knitted together as the words sank in. He let out a slow exhale, his mind racing. He wasn’t surprised that Chinenye had pushed Hamisa to the edge, but the mention of Jhream. He understood why Hamisa was mad. He couldn’t help but shake his head.

Chika, who had followed them into the hallway, stepped forward, her presence soft but determined. “She tried to keep the peace, Josh, but Chinenye wouldn’t stop poking at her,” Chika added her tone level but carrying an undeniable weight. She had seen it all—the subtle jabs, the cutting remarks, and the way Hamisa had been pushed into a corner.

Joshua sighed, rubbing the back of his neck as he tried to process everything. It wasn’t like him to get caught up in family drama, but this situation was different. He had always been the protector, the one who kept the peace. Yet with Hamisa, it was always a delicate balance. She was strong-willed, independent, and quick to defend herself, but when it came to Chinenye, the tension was almost unbearable.

Before he could respond, the door to the suite opened again, and Belmira stepped out, her expression neutral, though her eyes held a certain understanding.

She carried Hamisa’s purse in one hand, her purse slung over her shoulder. She moved with purpose, stepping into the hallway with a sense of quiet authority.

She offered Hamisa the purse with a soft smile, which Hamisa accepted without a word, though her expression remained tight.

“I told Claudia that she won’t see us until her wedding day,” Belmira said, her voice steady and calm.

“But—” Hamisa began.

“That’s perfect,” Joshua said, cutting off Hamisa before she could finish. His tone was final now, unwavering. “I don’t want you around Chinenye,” He told Hamisa.

There was a moment of silence as the weight of his words settled in the air. The group stood together in the corridor, their expressions a mix of weariness and tension. Hamisa's jaw clenched, her hands tightening around the purse, but she said nothing. The last thing she wanted was to be in the same room as Chinenye again. She had reached her breaking point, and Joshua knew it.

“Let’s just go home,” he suggested, his voice low and gentle. “We’ll talk about this later, okay?”

Hamisa nodded, her anger still simmering beneath the surface, but she knew that arguing now wouldn’t solve anything. She allowed herself to be led down the hallway, her steps slow but steady, the weight of the night’s events already starting to take its toll on her.

There was much more to say, much more to unpack, but for now, the only thing that mattered was putting distance between herself and the woman who had pushed her too far.

uceyjucey 10m

The following day dawned bright and clear, the sun casting a warm glow over the city as it bathed the streets in golden hues. For Hamisa, the morning felt like a fresh start, a chance to leave behind the tension of her recent confrontation with Chinenye.

Although the fight still weighed heavily on her mind, she was determined not to let it ruin the day. Joshua had come up with the perfect solution to take her mind off the discord. A trip to the aquarium. It was a place that could offer peace, wonder, and a much-needed distraction.

Joshua had noticed how quiet Hamisa had been, her usual cheerfulness dampened by the unresolved conflict. He understood the significance of the situation, but he also knew that sometimes, the best way to cope with emotions was simply to shift the focus elsewhere. The idea of an outing with the kids seemed like the perfect way to do just that.

As the family approached the entrance to the aquarium, Hamisa gently pushed Jhream's stroller, a small, content smile curling on her lips as she watched the little girl, her eyes wide with curiosity. Jhream was still too young to understand the complexities of adult relationships, but the simple joy of seeing the marine life for the first time was enough to bring a sparkle to her eyes. Hamisa had always adored animals, and the sight of her daughter so fascinated by the sea creatures filled her with nostalgia.

When she was younger, Hamisa had dreamed of becoming a marine biologist, spending her days studying the mysteries of the ocean. But as high school rolled around, the reality of her struggles with science hit hard. The dream faded, replaced by a passion for soccer, a sport that became her new obsession. Still, she had always kept a special place in her heart for the sea, for the creatures that lived in its depths, and now, watching Jhream’s fascination, that old dream seemed to come alive again, if only for a fleeting moment.

Joshua had taken care of the ticket arrangements for the day, covering the cost of admission for the family. His presence, calm and reassuring, offered a sense of stability to Hamisa, who had been feeling a little off balance since her argument with Chinenye. He was her rock, and his thoughtful gestures like suggesting this trip, reminded her why she had fallen in love with him in the first place.

As they entered the aquarium, the cool air inside greeted them, a contrast to the warmth of the outside world. The soft hum of excited voices, the gurgle of water, and the peaceful silence of the aquatic creatures created a soothing atmosphere that wrapped around the family like a gentle embrace. Hamisa’s eyes scanned the exhibits, already picturing the joy it would bring to Jhream, who was growing increasingly eager as she peeked out from her stroller.

"Dada," came the sweet, high-pitched voice of Jhream, her tiny hands reaching up toward her father. Joshua turned at the sound of her call, his face softening with a smile at the sight of his daughter’s outstretched arms. "What’s up, baby girl?" he asked, leaning in close to her, his voice full of warmth.

Jhream’s face lit up as she babbled something unintelligible, reaching more urgently for him. Hamisa, seeing her daughter’s restlessness, leaned in to offer her input. "Leave her in the stroller because once she's out, then she won't go back in," she said with a knowing smile.

Joshua nodded in agreement, his eyes catching Hamisa's for a brief moment, a silent acknowledgment of the little one’s independent streak.

"You heard your mama," Joshua said to Jhream with a playful tone, ruffling her hair as she pouted in response, her big brown eyes wide with a mixture of frustration and determination.

"Mama," Jhream repeated, a soft whine escaping her lips as she fixed her gaze on Hamisa.

"Mama," Jhream repeated once more, her voice tinged with impatience.

Hamisa couldn’t help but smile at the persistence in her daughter’s voice. "You’re too smart, Jream," she said, her tone soft and affectionate. The little girl grinned, her face lighting up with pride at her mother’s praise.

The sound of laughter bubbled up from Jeyce, who stood nearby. Jhream peeked out of her stroller again, this time locking eyes with her brother, clearly unwilling to accept her confinement.

Jeyce couldn’t resist teasing his little sister. He gave her an exaggerated look of concern, then moved behind Hamisa with a dramatic gesture. "Uh uh," he said, wagging his finger at Jhream, who responded with a deep pout. The toddler’s lower lip trembled, and she muttered, "Je," as though pleading with him to help her.

"She really wants out of that stroller," Jeyce commented, his voice full of amusement as they made their way toward the entrance of the reef exhibit, a large, arching doorway that led into a world of underwater wonders.

Joshua chuckled, his tone warm as he joined in the lighthearted moment. "You know who would have taken her out of the stroller? Your brother, Jaciyah," he said, referring to his eldest son, who was away at college.

Jaciyah is obsessed with his baby sister, always FaceTiming her when he’s not home.

Everyone laughed at the thought of Jaciyah, who was always doting on Jhream, even from a distance. The connection between the older brother and his younger sister was undeniable, and it was clear that Jhream had him wrapped around her finger.

As they entered the reef exhibit, the family was immediately captivated by the swirling dance of marine life. The vibrant colors of the fish, the swaying of the plants, and the calm of the water seemed to create a dreamlike atmosphere, as if they had stepped into another world. Jhream’s squeals of delight filled the air as she clapped her hands, pointing excitedly at the fish and creatures she had never seen before. She was a bundle of joy, her little face glowing with the purest form of wonder.

The family moved slowly through the exhibit, pausing to take in the majestic sea creatures gliding gracefully through the water. It was a day of learning, laughter, and shared joy. A much-needed reprieve from the tension that had been clouding Hamisa’s mind.

At some point, the hunger that had built up over the course of the morning led them to a break for food. They sat down together at a small café, where the tantalizing scent of burgers, chicken fingers, and bacon cheese fries filled the air. They ate hungrily, savoring the simple comfort of a meal shared as a family. Afterward, they continued their adventure, stopping by the snack bar for soft pretzels and ice cream, the sweet and salty combination providing the perfect ending to their time at the aquarium.

As the day drew to a close, they made their way to the gift shop, where the children’s excitement reached a new peak. Joshua bought Jhream four cuddly stuffed animals, each one a reminder of the fun they’d had. Jeyce picked out a hat, his choice reflecting his laid-back style. Hamisa, ever thoughtful, chose matching hoodies for herself and Joshua, a gesture of connection between them. She knew how important these little moments were, how they helped to strengthen the bond they shared as a family.

On the drive home, the car was filled with the peaceful sounds of sleep. Jhream, exhausted from her exploration, had drifted off in her stroller, her little head resting against the seat. Jeyce had also succumbed to the warmth of the car, his eyelids fluttering as he settled into slumber. Hamisa, still wide-eyed, glanced over at Joshua, her mind returning to the unresolved tension between her and Chinenye. It was impossible to forget about it entirely, but for a few hours, she had been able to push it to the back of her mind.

Joshua, ever attentive, broke the silence. "Hey, do you want to talk about your fight with Chinenye?" he asked, his voice gentle, but laced with concern.

Hamisa rolled her eyes, a small sigh escaping her lips. "I don’t," she replied firmly, though the words held a touch of frustration. "Believe me, fighting her says enough about it."

Joshua nodded, understanding the weight of her words. "Claudia’s wedding is tomorrow," he said, his voice steady. "You’re going to have to get ready with Chinenye tomorrow. Can you handle being in the same room as her?"

Hamisa’s eyes met his for a moment, and though there was a flicker of uncertainty in her gaze, she squared her shoulders and answered with quiet resolve. "I can."

It was clear that the events of the day had not erased the tension she felt, but Hamisa was determined to face the challenges ahead with grace.

Tomorrow would bring its own trials, but for now, she was content to be surrounded by her family, the soft hum of the car’s engine a lullaby that carried them home.

hamisawoo 1h

The sun hung low in the sky, casting a soft, golden glow over the world as the anticipation of the day’s events began to build. It was Claudia’s wedding day, a day filled with joy, love, and new beginnings. The gentle buzz of excitement hummed through the hotel suite where the bridal party was getting ready. Hamisa stepped into the room, expecting the usual flurry of activity, the sound of heels clicking on the floor, and the smell of hairspray mixed with perfume. But as she entered, the scene was quieter than she anticipated.

She had imagined that Chinenye would be running around, handling her duties as maid of honor, making sure everything was in place for the big day. But instead, the room was calm, the only movement coming from the other bridesmaids, adjusting their dresses and checking their hair. Hamisa's gaze immediately searched the room, but Chinenye was nowhere to be found. She could feel the knot of confusion tighten in her chest, but she wasn’t about to ask about her absence. Not today. Today was not the day to bring up the fight or the tension that had been building between them. She set her things down quietly and made her way to an empty chair.

Her hair and makeup were already done, and the only thing left to do was slip into the bridesmaid's dress that had been carefully chosen for this day. As she adjusted herself in the mirror, she couldn't help but think back to the events leading up to this moment. She had barely spoken to Chinenye since their fight a few days ago, and now, with the wedding happening, it felt like everything was being left unsaid, hanging in the air between them. Still, she pushed the thoughts aside. Today was not the day for lingering conflicts. It was Claudia’s day, and she had to be there for her, as a cousin, and as a bridesmaid.

The soft sound of footsteps approached, and before Hamisa could settle into her thoughts, Belmira, Claudia’s younger sister, rushed over to her with a bright smile. Without a second hesitation, she pulled Hamisa into a tight hug. "Claudia had a fight with Chinenye, which got physical, and now I’m her maid of honor," Belmira said, the words tumbling out in one breath, her voice full of a mix of surprise and sympathy.

Hamisa blinked, the shock of the revelation settling over her like a heavy fog. "Not Chinenye getting her ass beat twice in a week," Hamisa said, the words escaping before she could stop them. The absurdity of it all hit her—first, the fight, and now this.

Belmira let out a loud laugh, shaking her head. "That’s exactly what I said!" she replied, her laughter infectious, easing some of the tension in the room. The mood lightened instantly, and for a moment, it felt like things were back to normal. As the two women finished getting ready, the room filled with the quiet rustle of fabric and the soft chatter of the bridal party. Claudia had been through so much lately, and it was clear from the way Belmira spoke that she was trying to hold everything together for her cousin, who had been emotionally drained from the fallout with Chinenye.

Soon, it was time for Claudia to put on her dress. The bridal gown was a masterpiece. Soft layers of tulle and lace shimmered under the light as Claudia stepped into it. The room fell silent as Claudia, now a vision of grace, emerged, her bridal party standing around her, eyes wide with admiration. Hamisa couldn’t help but smile at the sight of her cousin, standing there in the dress she had always dreamed of wearing. There were tears in Claudia's eyes, but the joy on her face was unmistakable.

As the bridesmaids crowded around her, offering hugs and words of encouragement, Claudia’s smile grew, but there was an underlying sadness in her eyes, a flicker of something unspoken. The absence of Chinenye, once so integral to her day, seemed to hang over the event like a shadow. But Hamisa pushed that thought aside, refusing to let it ruin the beauty of this moment.

The wedding planner entered the room then, her calm demeanor bringing order to the chaos. "It’s time," she announced, ushering the bridal party out of the suite and toward the beach where the ceremony would take place. The sound of the waves crashing on the shore was a soft reminder of the natural beauty that surrounded them, providing a serene backdrop to the most important day of Claudia’s life.

As they made their way down to the sand, the air was thick with the anticipation of the ceremony to come. The soft, salty breeze tousled Hamisa’s hair as she walked with her fellow bridesmaids, the sounds of the ocean offering a calming rhythm. She could see Joshua ahead, holding Jhream in his arms. The little girl was dressed in a flower girl dress, her face a mixture of excitement and curiosity as she looked around at the guests. Joshua, wearing his groomsman’s attire, smiled as he spotted Hamisa and gave a quick, playful wave.

"Mama!" Jhream called out, her small voice rising above the murmurs of the crowd.

"Let’s get this party started," he said, his voice full of joy and energy as he carried Jhream, helping her tiny hand dump out the petals onto the sand.

The ceremony itself was beautiful. A perfect blend of emotion and elegance. As Claudia and George exchanged their vows, Hamisa couldn’t help but reflect on the way their love had weathered its storms, just like any good relationship. This wedding wasn’t just a celebration of their union; it was a symbol of perseverance, of finding beauty even in the most difficult of times.

Joshua kept stealing glances at Hamisa throughout the ceremony, his eyes searching her face as if trying to read her thoughts. She felt the weight of his gaze, but she couldn’t quite place the emotions it stirred within her. Was he wondering about their future? About the tension that lingered between them, unspoken and unresolved? Or was he simply caught up in the magic of the day, lost in the joy of seeing Claudia and George come together?

As they made their way to take pictures with the wedding party, Joshua’s presence by her side felt comforting, but there was a tension between them, a quiet undercurrent of things left unsaid. Joshua had always been direct, but today, he seemed to be holding something back.

Later, as the reception unfolded, the atmosphere shifted. The food was a feast for the senses. Brazilian dishes full of flavor and spice that filled the air with mouth-watering aromas. The music swirled around them, rhythmic beats that made everyone’s feet tap to the infectious rhythm. Laughter echoed throughout the room as guests danced and celebrated, the lively spirit of the Brazilian culture infusing every corner of the ballroom. It was a celebration in every sense of the word, and Hamisa couldn’t help but feel the weight of the night lifting her spirits.

But even amid the joy, Joshua’s quiet presence beside her was hard to ignore. He had been watching her all night, and now, as they stood off to the side of the dance floor, he pulled her gently away from the crowd, his eyes serious, his expression unreadable.

"Hey," Joshua began, his voice low and deliberate, "I want to talk about us."

Hamisa, slightly tipsy from the drinks she had indulged in, tilted her head, her mind still swimming with the excitement of the night. "What about us?" she asked, a playful lilt to her voice, though the question itself carried an undercurrent of uncertainty.

Joshua took a deep breath, his gaze steady on hers. There was something in his eyes, something that Hamisa hadn’t seen in a long time. It wasn’t the man she had once known so well, but it was close. He was different now, more mature, more certain of what he wanted. And Hamisa, despite the drunken fog in her mind, could sense that this conversation would change everything.

He opened his mouth to speak again, but before he could, the sound of a distant cheer caught their attention, and the moment hung suspended in the air, waiting to be filled with words that would determine their future.

Joshua took a deep breath, steadying himself. He had been thinking about this moment for a while, but now that it was here, the words felt heavier than he had anticipated. The music from the reception pulsed faintly in the background, but it felt distant, like a world away from the quiet bubble they had created by stepping off to the side. Hamisa stood before him, slightly swaying, her cheeks flushed from the excitement of the night, her eyes soft and hazy with the light buzz of the alcohol.

Joshua wasn’t sure how to begin, how to explain everything that had been weighing on him for so long. He knew that a part of him had changed since their breakup. When they had parted ways, he had been adamant about never getting married again. The idea of walking down that road once more had seemed impossible. Yet, as the months had passed, his feelings had shifted. Time had given him a new perspective on what mattered, and he found himself thinking more and more about Hamisa, about the family they had built together. But the question still lingered in the back of his mind: Was Hamisa ready for that?

He glanced at her, her gaze locked onto his with a slight tilt to her head, waiting. “Hamisa,” he said softly, his voice almost lost in the hum of the room around them. “I’ve been thinking… about us, about everything.” He paused, unsure of how to continue, but the weight of the moment pushed him forward. “We’ve been through a lot. We’ve had our time apart, I’ve made mistakes, but I can’t help but feel like we’re standing at a crossroads. I don’t know what the future holds, but… I want to try again. I want to see if we can make this work.”

Hamisa stood still, her expression unreadable for a moment. Her heart pounded in her chest, and despite the alcohol in her system, her mind was sharp enough to understand the gravity of what Joshua was saying. His words were simple, but the emotions behind them were anything but. She had been so caught up in the whirlwind of the wedding, the excitement of seeing Claudia find her happiness, and even the tension with Chinenye, that she hadn’t allowed herself to reflect on what she wanted. What she needed.

For a moment, all she could do was stand there, letting the words float around her. Her thoughts were fragmented, caught between the remnants of the past and the hope for a future she wasn’t sure she was ready for. Her time with Joshua had been one of the most meaningful experiences of her life, but it had also been filled with complications, misunderstandings, and moments of uncertainty. Could she let herself go back to that place with him? Could she trust that things had truly changed?

Joshua was still watching her, his eyes filled with vulnerability, his posture slightly tense, as if awaiting her response with bated breath. He had always been a man of few words, but at this moment, every word he spoke was heavy with meaning, with the possibility of a future they hadn’t dared to imagine in a long time.

She blinked, the weight of his words finally settling into her chest, her breath catching for a second before she spoke. “Joshua…” Her voice was soft but steady, her eyes never leaving his. “I don’t know if I’m ready to dive into this right now.”

He winced, the words hitting him harder than he’d expected. But Hamisa quickly continued, her tone shifting slightly, a softness in her eyes. “It’s not that I don’t want us to work. It’s not that I don’t still care for you because I do, more than I can explain,” she said, her voice trembling just slightly. “But I’ve spent so much of my life running on the idea of being strong, of handling things on my own, and I don’t know if I’m ready to jump back into something that could hurt me again. I don’t know if I can trust that it’ll be different this time. And I don’t know if I’m ready to open myself up to that again.”

Joshua’s heart twisted as he listened to her words. He could see the conflict in her eyes, the uncertainty that danced just beneath the surface. He had seen it before, the way Hamisa kept things locked away inside, the walls she built around herself to protect her heart. He knew that, at her core, she was strong, but he also understood the pain she carried from their past and how hard it was for her to let go of it.

"I don’t want to push you," Joshua said, his voice soft but resolute. “I’ve spent so much time regretting the way we ended things before. But I’ve learned, too. I’ve learned that maybe I was wrong, that I let go of something I wasn’t ready to lose. I just want a chance to prove that I can do better this time. Not just for me, but for us. For the family, we’ve built. I don’t expect everything to be perfect, but I want to try again, Hamisa. I do.”

Hamisa closed her eyes for a moment, her breath steadying as she processed his words. She had spent so much time running from this, from him, from the feelings that had been buried deep within her heart. The fear of getting hurt again had kept her at arm's length, but somewhere beneath that fear, there was a flicker of hope. A hope she wasn’t sure she was ready to face.

“You don’t know how much I wish I could just tell you that everything is going to be fine,” Hamisa whispered, her voice barely audible above the music. “I want to believe that we can go back to what we had, but I need time to figure it out. I need time to understand if I can trust that this is what’s best for me… for us.”

Joshua nodded slowly, understanding the depth of her hesitation. He reached out and placed his hand gently on her arm, his touch a soft reminder of the connection they still shared. “I understand. Take all the time you need. I’ll be here, Hamisa. I’m not going anywhere. I just want you to know that I’m here, and I’m willing to do whatever it takes to make things right.”

For a long moment, neither of them spoke. The noise of the reception continued to swirl around them, but it felt like they were in their little world, separated from everything else. Hamisa closed her eyes, her thoughts racing, her heart torn between the pull of the past and the uncertainty of the future.

Finally, she opened her eyes and met his gaze once more. There was a quiet resolve in her voice as she spoke. “I can’t promise anything, Joshua. But I’ll think about it. I’ll think about us.”

Joshua gave her a small, bittersweet smile. It wasn’t the answer he had hoped for, but it was more than he had expected. He had asked for time, and she had given it to him. That was all he could ask for.

“Thank you,” he whispered, his voice thick with emotion. “That’s all I need.”

As they stood there, amidst the chatter and the music of the reception, the future felt uncertain, but there was a small spark of possibility between them, something that had been missing for a long time. Whatever came next, they had taken the first step toward something new. Something that could, in time, be more than just a memory.

For now, they stood in the quiet corner of the room, their shared moment suspended in the air. The night would go on, the celebration continuing around them, but in that brief exchange, something had shifted. And though the future was still unclear, one thing was certain, neither of them would be walking away without trying.

22 notes · View notes