Page 44 of Surrender

“We do,” I confirmed. “I’m sorry we had you out all day.”

She shook her head. “Nonsense. A home is supposed to be forever. It’s always best to weigh your options before you settle.”

She went into her briefcase and pulled out a folder.

“As you saw, the asking price is $375,000. I can probably talk them down since it’s been on the market for a while, and you’re paying cash.”

Kachelle’s brows furrowed. “Cash?”

“Cash,” I confirmed. “I don’t believe in owing anybody if I don’t have to.”

“Baby, that’s a lot of money to pay all at once.”

“It is, but I’ve got it. I’ve been saving for a home since I was twenty-one. Trust me, the money is there and then some.”

“He’s right,” Jess said. “He got the financially responsible genes. Trust me girl, this won’t make a dent in his account.”

Kachelle looked at me with concern. “I can help?—”

I covered her mouth with my hand. “I’m your husband and your provider. I’m paying for the house and both our names will be on the deed. It will be ours and you will not come out of pocket for anything. Understood?”

Her eyes filled with tears as she nodded her head. “I understand.”

I removed my hand and cupped her face, softly pressing my lips to hers. I was falling hard for this woman and it was on the tip of my tongue to tell her that I loved her. The shit was crazy. We’d only been married a few weeks, and I felt more connected to her than I’d ever felt to any woman in my past.

My spirit felt so much peace with her. The little bubble we created was filled with wonder, passion, and happiness. Every day, I learned something new about her and even though it was still fresh, it had been an experience.

Maybe Arranged Hearts really did know what the fuck they were doing.

I don’t know what I did to deserve Jacob, but I thanked God, my lucky stars, and Arranged Hearts for putting him in my path. I couldn’t believe he’d bought us a home… my dream home at that. When I saw the property on Zillow, I immediately saved it to my favorites to show him. Now that we’d toured and our offer had been accepted, I was excited to start packing up my apartment. This place had been my home for the last six years, and I would miss it, but it was time to go.

It was Saturday, and I was currently in my bedroom with Jessa and Myra, preparing for my post-bachelorette party. They’d been here for about two hours now. The first hour we spent taking shots and getting lit in the living room with Jacob serving as our bartender. He’d even made us a few party snacks to soak up the liquor before we went out.

I’d been a little nervous to introduce him to Myra. When she knocked on the door, I’d given him a speech before I even opened it.

“Please don’t take anything she says to heart. She’s very honest.”

“I like honest people.”

“And she’s protective.”

“I don’t mind protective. If someone loves you that much, they can’t be that bad.”

I smiled. “I really want you two to get along. She’s important to me.”

“Baby… open the door. Everything will be fine.”

I sighed heavily as I went to open the front door. Myra stood there plucking with her phone. When she looked up, she smiled.

“Just so you know, it took every ounce of restraint not to barge in here like I normally do.”

“I appreciate that.” I pulled her in for a hug and kissed her cheek. My… this is Jacob. Baby, this is my best friend, Myra.”

Jacob smiled and extended his hand. “It’s very nice to meet you, Myra. I’ve heard a lot about you.”

She slipped him her palm. “It’s nice to meet you, Jacob. Damn girl, he’s much finer in person. They did you good! You got a brother? A cousin? Do you need a stepmama cause I know your daddy has got to be fine.”

Jacob chuckled. “I like you already. No, I don’t have a brother. I have a younger sister. Though they aren’t happy with me right now, my parents are happily married. I do have a few cousins I could introduce you to.”