All Will Be Right This Christmas

All will be right this Christmas

Prologue

“You did WHAT?!!” Marcella Jones screeched at Tameka Williams in shock causing others in the restaurant to turn around. The news almost made her lose her appetite. This girl’s lunch was turning south quickly.

Tameka who looked like a dear in headlights was totally caught off guard from her best friend’s reaction.

“I invited Rick to the party.” Tameka responded sheepishly as she sipped her tea.

“You invited Rick to the party.” Marcella repeated. “Unbelievable. Every year you spend months in advance planning this party, no- this whole Christmas extravaganza and this year, you wait until I’m in town to tell me that for the first time in 15 years, you have invited my ex-husband!?

Tameka rolled her eyes and sighed. “I didn’t think it was going to be a big deal. This Christmas Extravaganza as you call it is my charity event that all of Dallas' elite and influential people attend. It benefits the homeless children and orphans of Dallas. You’re a celebrity travel nurse known all around the world for your charity work and philanthropy. Rick is one of the most well-known pastors in Dallas. Everybody remembers how his letter to the President freed those 6 young black men from Death Row. Of course, I was going to invite him this year.”

Now it was Marcella’s turn to roll her eyes as Tameka continued.

Girl, grow up: It’s been 15 years and you two are both grown established adults. I can’t believe you’re making a big deal out of this. Besides, the guest list includes over 200 people. Who knows? You may not even run into him at the party.”

“Well, let’s hope so.” Marcella sighed as she looked out of the window remembering the past…

15 years earlier

Dallas, Texas

Marcella Simpson finished stirring up the beef stew and removed the biscuits from out of the oven. Looking around at the table she had set; she was very pleased at how everything came together. She knew her husband would be home from work soon, and she thought that the meal she prepared would help the evening to go smoother. Hopefully by the end of the evening, Richard would be okay with the news she was about to share.

She heard the keys jiggle and ran to the door to greet her husband. As soon as the door opened, she flew into his arms.

“There’s my man.” She said as she felt his arms wrap around her. She heard and felt his breathing even out as he hugged her close to him. To Richard, this was always the highlight of his day, coming home to the one person he knew would always be there for him, his beautiful wife, Marcella.

Letting his wife take the briefcase out of his hand as he came into their home, Richard took one whiff of the air and knew that his wife was making his favorite meal. “Baby you made me beef stew?”

“Sure, did and I made some honey butter biscuits from scratch.”

What did he ever do to deserve this woman who always treated him like a king every chance she got?

“Babe wash up and get comfortable, dinner will be on the table soon.” Hearing that made the long stressful days at the hospital where he was chaplain worth it. He silently thanked God that he was blessed with a woman like Marcella Simpson.

10 minutes later, Richard could hardly believe what he was hearing.

“Wait a minute babe, what did you just say?”

Marcella took a deep breath and repeated the news that she knew would rattle her husband to his core.

“I signed up for Nurses without Borders. I have my first trip in 3 weeks.”

“3 weeks?”

Marcella nodded at her husband whose facial expression was unreadable.

“Where are you going?”

“Ghana”

“GHANA???” Richard was livid. At once he got up from the dinner table and blew out the candles that his wife has lit to set the mood. It was apparent that the mood was long gone.

Marcella knew he wouldn’t be so happy about it, but she didn’t expect him to go off like this.

“What the hell were you thinking Marcella? This is absurd, what would make you think that this was something you needed to do?” Richard roared.

“I didn’t think- “

“That’s right you didn’t think. This ' decision ' as you call it has stupid written all over it” Richard realized that he had gone too far. Only problem was that he wasn’t in the mood to apologize.

Marcella got up from the table and did not hide her emotions as tears began to stream from her face.

“My whole life, I dreamed of being someone who could help other people. I wanted to be a nurse so bad that I read as many nursing books as I could find on my own. But then you came along and for the first time, I wanted to be something other than a nurse, I wanted to be your wife. So, I put my life on hold so that I could serve you. But I can’t take it anymore, there is something inside of me that needs to be fulfilled. This is it. So, I’m sorry if you don’t think this was smart and that I made a stupid decision. But I and my stupid decision am getting on that plane and I’m going to go. Whether you like It or not.”

Just like that, 15 years went down the drain.

15 years later

Calvary Church of God in Christ

Richard Simpson looked at the photo on his desk in his pastoral study and his heart broke all over again. The photo of Marcella and himself was like a constant reminder that he once had it all and he ruined it. It had been 15 years and not a day went by that he didn’t regret those awful words that he said to his wife. Why couldn’t he have just supported her dreams like she had done for him? He still held her in that regard as his wife even though she filed for divorce 2 days later after they had that fateful last conversation at the dinner table. Since the divorce was a no contest, she didn’t have to ever communicate with him during the entire process including him signing the dreadful documents. That made it more heartbreaking. Not getting a chance to see her face to face or apologize for his horrible words ate away at him. Looking over his bookshelf at the office, he glanced lazily over all the trophies, plaques and commendations that he had received locally, nationally and from his denomination. They meant nothing.

Just then a knock on the door interrupted his thoughts.

“Come in" he responded as he collected himself.

The door opened and Tameka Williams walked through. He could recognize that lady anywhere. She was Marcella's best friend and a philanthropist in her own right. Organizing events for Noble causes was what she did best. Being that it was Christmas time, Rick knew her visit was just to confirm his attendance at her Christmas party. Only thing was that since it was the holidays, he didn’t feel much like celebrating.

“Tameka! How are you doing? Come on in" Rick said as he rose to greet her. Offering her a chair opposite his desk, they both sat down.

“Rick you know why I’m here. I sent you an invitation to my annual Christmas party and I haven’t received your RSVP yet. What gives?” Tameka asked pointedly.

“I don’t know Meka, I’m just not in the holiday spirit. I don’t think I’m going to be able to make it. How about I just make a donation. Would that be okay?”

Tameka shook her head. “No, it would not. You’re coming to my party.”

Rick looked shocked “and just how do you figure that?”

Tameka got up from the chair, smoothed her skirt and picked up her purse. Heading to the door, she said “I know because Marcella's going to be there. I'll fill out your RSVP card and make sure you don’t have a plus one. See you there.” She closed the door behind her.

Rick looked like a deer in headlights when she left.

Pulling out the invitation that he received to the party, Rick realized that he only had less than a week to get a tux. Groaning inwardly, he realized Tameka was right. He was definitely going to that party.

Marcella spent 4 days going from store to store looking for the perfect dress. She never shopped like this. “I didn’t even spend this much time picking out a wedding dress when Rick and I got married.”

She froze dead in her tracks. That was it. That was the reason why she was spending all this time looking for THEE dress. Rick was going to be there and it would be the first time in 15 years that she had seen her ex-husband face to face. What would she say to him if she saw him? Knowing Tameka, she’d probably seat them at the same table and swear that it was an accident. She shook her head as she continued searching for gowns.

The night of the Party

Rick’s black Mercedes Benz rolled to a clean stop outside of the Signature Grand Hotel. The valet was there to promptly take his car and park it for him. Looking around at all the decorations, he could appreciate the time and effort Tameka put into this Christmas party. It was definitely something that exuded opulence and festivity. After getting checked in, he was shown to the red carpet that took pictures and conducted interviews with all the well known guests. It was nice that he was considered a well known guest and that he was there for such a noble cause. He was busy explaining this to an interviewer and of course detailing his wardrobe for the evening when all a sudden, the photographers cameras began flashing profusely and quickly. Rick wondered what all the fuss was about. He got his answer when he noticed Tameka in a bright red gown. She looked nice, but the gorgeous woman standing beside Tameka was enough to stop his heart. His ex-wife Marcella Jones stood beside Tameka in a sparkly gold form fitting dress that delicately hugged her curves. Her thick long black hair was styled in big curls and her make up glowed. The diamond earrings and necklace complimented her well but it was her smile that caused his heart to race. He had to get himself together. He was a respected pastor in the community. He couldn’t be seen gawking over the woman no matter how good she looked, and she looked good.

Tameka was busy conducting interviews with the news media and photographers and Marcella just stood there smiling. It was a considerably high honor to walk in with the host of the banquet and she didn’t want to steal Tameka's shine. She had to give it to her, Tameka did wonderful work in planning such an auspicious event. The interviewer finally asked Marcella a question and she was trying her best to respond in a professional dignified manner but she could feel the stare and her heart began racing. Pulling it together, she finished the interview like a champ and proceeded to walk in with Tameka into the hall.

Rick retreated into the bathroom and splashed water on his face. Checking to see if he was the only person in the bathroom (miraculously, he was) he took a hard look at himself in the mirror. Immediately, flashes of his life with Marcella began to play over and over in his mind. Their wedding day, their honeymoon, her making him his favorite dinner and him holding her close at night. Then he replayed that fateful fight they had and how when he became a pastor he had to begin that time in his life alone.

Those memories encouraged him to say something. He wasn’t about to let that moment slip away. After checking himself out in the mirror, he felt his phone buzz. It was a text from Tameka “the minister I had to do the invocation had a last-minute emergency. Can you fill in?” Rick’s head was in the game “sure thing" he responded as he exited the men’s room.

The hostesses escorted him to the main table which sat on a raised dais. Taking his seat, he realized that he was sitting next to Tameka, who was seated next to Marcella. If anything, he knew that the Lord was giving him a shot. He’d be a fool to miss it. The MC announced him as it was time to give the invocation. Confidently, Rick rose to approach the podium and give the prayer.

For the first time in 15 years, Marcella heard the voice of the man she’d married and it brought back memories of time she’d shared with the love of her life. That was something she had been running from because that very man up there praying was the very man who attempted to dash her hopes and dreams. But looking at him up there, all 6’2 dark chocolate, bald and muscular, she had to admit that he was still the only man who could make her breakout in nervous sweats and at the same time feel peace from his voice. She missed him but she was still hurt. She wanted to talk to him but what if he didn’t feel the same way?

“In the Name of the Lord Jesus Christ we pray, Amen.” Was all she heard and a light dinner was served. The rest of the ceremony and all the presentations breezed by as Marcella constantly felt Rick’s stare. The band started playing and she noticed people were getting up mingling. Leaning over to Tameka she said “I’m going to slip to the ladies’ room really quick.”

She was just approaching the stairs when felt someone gently grab her arm and assist her. Looking to her left, she couldn’t help but grin as she looked into the eyes of the man who had been plaguing her thoughts.

Marcella’s smile in any form was alluring but being so close to her had Rick encapsulated in her aura. It was as if he stared at her to try to get her to understand what he was feeling.

As if on cue, the band started playing “If Only for One Night" by Luther Vandross. Marcella dropped her head and Rick couldn’t believe it. The band was playing their song.

If there was any chance to start talking, this was it.

“You know I can’t let this song play and not at least ask you to dance.” Rick said softly as he silently prayed Marcella would say yes.

Marcella could barely speak. She was too busy being entranced in Rick’s cologne. All she could do was keep grinning and nod.

Tammy looked on as the two headed to the dancefloor. “Those two didn’t stand a chance” She said as she sipped her champagne, and watched.

There was so much Rick wanted to say but now wasn’t the time. With so many people on the dancefloor and him knowing how private of a person Marcella was, he was just grateful for the opportunity to hold her again.

But then again, he had to break the ice somehow.

“If I remember correctly, this is how you like to be held. Am I right?”

Marcella couldn’t say anything but Rick felt her nodding in response.

Marcella was too busy willing the tears not to fall. This felt so right. After 15 years of divorce, the only man who could make her world alright was her ex-husband and here he was, dancing with her, holding her perfectly.

The song ended and Rick noticed the guests were starting to depart. The party was over but he couldn’t let Marcella get away.

“How are you getting home?”

“I have a room here at the hotel.”

“Marcella, there is so much I want to say.”

“Me too. Why don’t you come up?”

“Okay. Meet you by the elevators?”

“Deal.”

Marcella went to find Tameka who already knew

“Please tell me you two are finally going to talk.”

“Yeah…...thanks to you telling the band to play our song.”

Tameka grinned and said “I have no idea what you’re talking about. But seriously, that man still loves you. Hear him out with your heart.”

Rick waited by the elevators and was relieved when Marcella approached him. The two rode up to the 22nd floor in silence. Once they approached her room, Marcella used her key to unlock the door and Rick walked inside behind her.

“Can I get you something to drink?” Marcella offered.

“Water would be nice.”

Marcella grabbed two bottled from the mini fridge and handed one to Rick whose throat was extremely dry due to nervousness. Taking a sip his water, he began.

“I was selfish and I was wrong. I knew you had a caregiving heart from the moment I met you. I wanted that to mean that you would be a great wife to me and only want to care for me. That day I signed those divorce papers was the lowest day of my life. I saw the excitement on your face when you told what you had done and I dashed your dreams because of my own selfishness. Marcella, I am so sorry. I’ve wanted to take back those awful words that I said to you ever since I said them. The memory of seeing the hurt look on your face still makes me wake up in cold sweats. Marcella, for 15 years I haven’t desired any other woman because she couldn’t be you. Even if she was as beautiful as you are, she wouldn’t have your heart. Wouldn’t have your smile. There’s no way she could light up the room just by walking in like you do. You’re in a league all by yourself and I was dumb as rocks to let you go.”

Marcella couldn’t say anything. She remained silent.

“Look that’s all I wanted to say. I’m sorry. I was wrong please forgive me for how our marriage ended. No matter what, I’ll always love you.” With a deep sigh, Rick stood and headed for the door. Just as his hand reached the knob, Marcella walked behind him and stopped him, placing her hand on his back. She couldn’t see the tears flowing down his face but she could feel his shoulders shaking. This was what she wanted. She wanted him to realize what he had done and apologize. Seeing him so emotional broke her down.

“Please stay.” Was all she could say before he turned around and kissed her will 15 years’ worth of pent up passion. His kiss was lovingly forceful, passionate and sensual. Marcella responded wrapping her arms around his neck and caressing the back of his head.

This moment gave Rick all he missed for the past 15 years. Kissing her passionately, he felt his resolve slipping. He was a man of the cloth and she was still his ex wife. There was no way he could go to the next level, not tonight. He shared that with her.

“Babe, as much as I want you, I can’t have you the way I want to. But I don’t want to leave.”

Marcella understood just want Rick meant. Her Christian upbringing wouldn’t allow her to go any further.

“I don’t want you to leave either. Can you stay the night and hold me?”

And that’s what they did. On top of the sheets in Marcella’s hotel suite, Rick held Marcella close to his heart all night long.

“Finally, all will be right this Christmas.” He sighed in content as he drifted to sleep.