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Through a set of open doors, I caught a glimpse of the main room being transformed. String lights were being hung across the ceiling, and neat rows of chairs faced an arch covered in white peonies, exactly the way Lorelei and I had discussed. A couple of Cardez’s soldiers I recognized were positioned at the entry points in dark suits.

The bridal suite was a converted room on the second floor. My dress hung off the full-length mirror in the corner. I stopped in the doorway when I saw the flowers—white and cream roses with baby’s breath were on nearly every surface in the room.

There was a card propped against the mirror.

I wanted you surrounded by something beautiful while you got ready. —Papa

I felt my throat tighten as I read it twice.

“Papa, huh?” Siani said, peeking over my shoulder. “Y’all nasty.”

I sucked my teeth and elbowed her playfully.

The two makeup artists I hired were already set up ready to get to work. Christy had me, and Gina was handling Siani and Jody. I showed her the look I wanted as she started spreading moisturizer on my face.

I’d barely closed my eyes when the door swung open. My mother came in like a strong gust of wind. Her garment bag was slung over her arm, and her hair was up in pin curls. She took one look at the table beside me and stopped.

“Now why don’t you have a glass of champagne?”

“She doesn’t want to get bloated in her dress,” Siani quickly answered for me.

“Bullshit.” Mama’s eyes narrowed on me. “La’Belle Mafia Evans, are you pregnant? Don’t you dare lie to me.”

Christy’s brush froze on my cheek. I sighed and opened my eyes to see everyone staring at me.

“Yeah. I am,” I said finally.

“I knew it!” she exclaimed. “Talkin’ ‘bout you’re watching your weight for the wedding.”

“Congratulations,” Christy said as she moved my face back into position.

“Thanks.” I closed my eyes again. I’d planned on telling my mother after the wedding, but I did feel a little lighter now that the news was out.

“Does Cardez know?” Mama asked.

“Yes. He’s happy. We’re happy.”

“Good.” She squeezed my arm. “Lord, I’m about to be a grandmother. I need a minute.”

“Here, Ms. Regina,” Siani said, already pouring her a glass. “You need a drink.”

She took the drink and chugged it before plopping down on the loveseat.

“Regina, please don’t get drunk before the ceremony,” I said.

She waved me off and motioned for Siani to pour her another. “This is a lot to take in. My only daughter’s getting married and pregnant to a man she’s only known for what? Four months?”

“Four months?” Christy commented. “Damn.”

Jody showed up not long after Regina did, wearing a black asymmetrical midi dress. Her locs were pulled into an intricate bun.

Tears started welling in my eyes. “No, ma’am,” Christy said. “I haven’t sprayed the finishing spray. No tears allowed right now.”

“I’m sorry,” I said, trying to blink them back. I wanted to jump out of the chair and hug her. “Cousin, it’s so good to see you.”

Jody smiled, holding herself together about as good as I was. “Lala, you look beautiful.” She turned to my mother. “Hi, Aunty Regina.”

My mother went to hug her. “Ms. Jody!”