“Well damn. He’s wasting no time.”
“We’re just going to the courthouse.”
“Still, that’s really quick.”
“I know, but he’s trying to get his family off his case and hopefully stop his mother from playing matchmaker.”
“This is crazy, but I love it. Just think about the stories you’ll have to tell in a year or two.”
“I’m not telling anyone he paid me to marry him, and you were sworn to secrecy. Don’t even tell your man.”
“I promise, your secret is safe with me.”
A knock on my office door gained our attention.
“Come in,” I called out.
The door opened, and Kenzo appeared on the other side.
“Hey.I didn’t mean to interrupt. How are you, Anika?” I greeted.
“I’m fine, Mr. Goode. I was just leaving. I’ll see you tomorrow, Malyah.”
I didn’t speak until we were alone and I’d closed the door, leaning against it.
“How are you? Did I interrupt something important?” I asked.
“I’m good, and no, we were just talking. I still need to do a couple of things before I leave. What’s up?”
“I took the rest of the afternoon off. We need to go to the courthouse to get our marriage license, and our rings have beensized and are ready to be picked up. I was also thinking you could find a dress today.”
“Oh, yeah. I don’t have anything that would be appropriate, but I can’t afford?—”
“Check your account.”
“My account? You mean my bank account?”
“Yeah.”
She picked up her phone, and I watched as her fingers moved across the screen.
“Oh my God!” she exclaimed. “I’ve never had this much money at one time. Thank you.”
I’d gotten her bank account information from our payroll department and deposited $50,000 into her account, just as I said I would. She rushed to embrace me, and I was surprised but happily returned the hug.
“Do you know how much this money will change my life? I can pay off all my debt,” she announced.
“I’m just holding up my end of the bargain, but I’ll pay for your dress and anything else you think you’ll need for the ceremony.”
“We’re only going to the courthouse, and this isn’t a real wedding, so I don’t need anything special.”
Her statement wasn’t wrong, but I hated that she felt that way.
“Regardless of the circumstances surrounding our union, I want you to find something that makes you feel good and not worry about how much anything costs. I’ve already booked an early morning appointment for you at the hotel salon and spa on Friday.”
“Kenzo, you didn’t have to do all that.”
“I know, but it’s the least I can do, and I don’t mind.”
