“I know how people’s perception can create an alternate reality,” Lamont said. “What matters is that you and Erykah know the truth of the situation. However, I will say if temptation is going to be an issue, then you might want to let her move out as planned.”
Chris heard him, but he wanted Tuck’s opinion as well. “What do you think, Tuck?”
“I don’t know. I believe you won’t cross the line. Plus, the girls are there. But what if you don’t marry until a year later? Now it becomes messy. Saying those three words changes everything.”
“What makes you hesitate about marriage?” Lamont asked.
Chris swallowed. “I was engaged before.”
“What?” they cried.
He told them about the relationship and about being left at the altar. Occasionally they’d chime in with questions, but finally, Chris finished his story.
“So you’re afraid,” Tuck said.
“But how long are you going to let fear keep you from happiness with someone who genuinely loves you back?” Lamont asked.
“I don’t want to fail her. It’s more than how I feel about Erykah. I have to consider the girls as well.”
“Then maybe take things slow.” Lamont sighed. “I feel for you. I’m sure you all have bonded, but she might want to experience what dating is like, don’t you think?”
Chriswouldbe the first man Erykah had dated. “What do you mean?”
“Talking on the phone until you fall asleep.” Lamont chuckled. “My favorite thing with Nevaeh.”
“Oh, first date,” Tuck said. “We did a picnic for ours.”
Chris could get behind a first date. “Thanks, fellas. You guys have given me a lot to think about.”
“That’s what we’re here for,” Lamont stated.
“And to keep you humble. We know being the oldandfifth wheel was too much. Glad you only have to suffer middle age now.”
“I can’t wait until you hit forty, Tucker Hale.” But Chris’s lips twitched as he said it.
“You’ll be even older then,” Tuck shot back.
Chris appreciated the good-natured ribbing. It made him feel a part of something. These two were the constants in his life, and he wouldn’t take that for granted.
“Send a text our way when you get released. We’re still praying,” Lamont added.
“Yeah, make sure it’s the group text with the ladies. I know they’ll want to know,” Tuck said.
“Will do.”
Chris hung up and stared back up at the ceiling.Thank You for their friendship and wise counsel.
The more Chris thought about his situation with Erykah,the more he considered going slow might be part of their journey. If that was the case, they definitely shouldn’t be in the same house. When she moved into her new place, he could take Erykah on dates. Do outings that included the girls, because he’d miss them with a deep ache when they left, but also ones that were just the two of them. And maybe then he’d know the right time to propose.
As long as it goes according to God’s plan. And don’t forget to include Erykah in the conversation.
He couldn’t spend all his time solving the issue. He’d already done that and caused unnecessary hurt between them. Chris needed to make sure he was opening up to the love of his life.
Forty-One
We were home.
The girls were so happy that Chris was no longer in the hospital. I’d picked them up after work so they could visit, and when we got there, the doctor informed us that his clot had shrunk, and he was comfortable sending Chris home on blood thinners.
