Soulmates Dissipate Read online

  Jada drove her BMW 7351 like a bat out of hell. The scenic view along Interstate 580 was a blur. Before she could get her key in the door, her mother had already opened it.

  “Hi, Mama.”

  “Hi, baby, I was just about to call when I saw your car. We’d better get going so we’re not late picking up Jazzmyne and the kids.”

  “Yes, Mama.” Jada opened the car door and waited for her mother to get in.

  The sunlight danced on the diamond. Jada removed her right hand from the steering wheel and placed it on her thigh.

  “Is there something you forgot to tell your mother?”

  “Like what?” Jada’s mother eyed the ring.” Oh. No, I didn’t forget. I haven’t had time to tell you because Wellington just gave it to me yesterday. And since it’s not an engagement ring, I didn’t want you to start talking about grandchildren again. That’s all.” A decade had passed since Jada’s last proposal. Jada often wondered why Darryl hadn’t asked her to marry him.

  “Well, you know Mama still wants her grandchildren. But I have to admit, I really like when Jazzmyne brings Shelly and Brandon over on Saturday mornings. The three of us play games and I’m teaching Shelly how to cook. And Brandon has learned how to set the table Brandon’s way.”

  Jada and her mother laughed. Brandon could brighten anyone’s darkest moment.

  “I just want what you and Daddy had.” Jada’s parents never fought or argued, at least not in front of her.” Marriages don’t last like they used to. People divorce for convenience these days and call it irreconcilable differences.”

  “Well, you know your father and I had our ups and our downs, but I knew Henry was my soulmate when I first laid eyes on him. That’s not something Mama can explain to you, baby, but if Wellington is that person for you, you already know it in your heart and, more importantly, you feel it in your soul.”

  “I love you, Mama.” When Jada drove up, Brandon jumped with joy. His tie flapped haphazardly and bounced off his head.

  “Good morning,” Jazzmyne said. She leaned over and kissed Mama on the cheek.

  “Good morning,” Jada and her mother responded at the same time.

  “Good morning, everyone,” Shelly sang. She had the brightest brown eyes and prettiest smile.”

  Aunty Jada and Grandma, I got all A’s again this week.”

  “Wonderful!” Jada said.” We’re very proud of you.”

  Mama slipped Shelly a five-dollar bill.

  “My mother tells me that the nice gentleman who helps pay my tuition and Brandon’s child care is your very good friend, Mr. Wellington.” Shelly buckled her seat belt. The yellow satin ribbon in her hair locked around her ponytail of spiral curls.

  “That’s true.” Jada parked in the last space in the church lot.

  “Do you think maybe one day I could actually meet him?” Shelly asked.

  “I don’t see why not.” Jada smiled.

  “How’s everyone doing this blessed Sunday morning?” asked Pastor Tellings as he greeted each member of his congregation. The pastor opened his hand. He and Brandon exchanged five.

  Jada joined Candice. Mama took her usual seat.

  The pastor opened his sermon with a prayer poem entitled: “When This Earthly House Is Dissolved.”

  Until then …

  Dear GOD,

  You know I will give my very best

  And when I am weary

  I will take a moment to rest

  But not too long because I must run Your race

  And while I run I will keep the faith

  And yes—Dear GOD—I will keep a smile on my face

  When this earthly house is dissolved

  Until then …

  Dear GOD I will help my fellow man

  Because I truly understand

  I must let Thy will be done

  And while I run this race

  I will keep the faith

  And yes LORD I will keep a smile on my face

  When this earthly house is dissolved

  Until then …

  I will make my earthly house a HOME

  And my family—Dear Lord—I will never leave them

  alone I will run this race I will keep the faith

  And yes—Dear GOD—I will keep a smile on my face

  When this earthly house is dissolved

  Until then …

  Dear GOD

  I will continue to pray

  That You continue to bless me in Your HOLY way

  So that my light will continue to shine

  And I will never have to tell anyone that I am a

  Christian

  Not one single time

  Because LORD I will run this race

  I will keep the faith

  And yes—Dear GOD—I will keep a smile on my face

  Until I leave this place

  Until I can see You see the smile on my face

  When this earthly house is dissolved

  I will be gone from it, LORD

  But I won’t be gone at all

  And thank you, Dear GOD

  Because when this earthly house is dissolved

  I will never—ever—be alone

  Amen

  “What will you do until your earthly house is dissolved?” Pastor Tellings preached.” Are you giving the Lord your very best? Are you helping your fellow man? Are you making your earthly house a home? Do you complain about the things you do for others or do you thank GOD that you are able to do for others? If you don’t make your earthly house a home, what kind of home do you think you will have in Heaven? Will your house be in Heaven? Christians. You’ve got to run God’s race. You’ve got to keep the faith and keep a smile on your face. Everything I just preached would cost you time but it won’t cost you a dime. Remember, the best things in life are still free.

  “Next week we’re going to partnership with a male and female correctional facility. So come prepared to sign up to be a pen pal, a mentor, a Christian. We as a congregation will start communicating by writing to inmates. All letters sent and received under the program will go through the church for two reasons. One, every inmate who requests a pen pal will receive one, even if I have to write them myself. Second, the church will measure the success of the program by the number of participants, the volume of letters, and partnership testimonials given by inmates and by you.

  “I want additional volunteers to accompany me to the prisons when I visit to minister to God’s people. The first group will be from ages twelve to twenty-six. I strongly encourage you to allow your children to witness what prison life is like. It may make your jobs as parents easier. This experience will open your eyes and your children’s to a whole world that most are oblivious to.

  “Brother Calvin Dupree volunteered to sign up the men and Sister Jazzmyne Jones agreed to sign up the women. Spread the word and let others know they don’t have to be members of the church to volunteer.”

  After church was dismissed, Candice said, “Girl, I see how you stay so busy. I like your pastor. If we had more ministers like him and congregations like this, we could really make a positive change.”

  After the service Jazzmyne walked over to Jada and Candice.

  “Candice, this is Jazzmyne Jones. Jazzmyne, this is Candice Carol Jordan.”

  “Pleased to finally meet you,” Candice said as she shook Jazzmyne’s hand.

  “My pleasure,” Jazzmyne responded.” I’ve heard so many wonderful things about you.”

  Then Jazzmyne faced Jada and said, “Brother Dupree is taking us home. We need to work on our plan to sign up volunteers for the pastor’s new program.” Jazzmyne’s mannerisms and looks reminded Jada of Loretta Devine.

  “Do you think he’ll take Mother home? That way Candice and I can make our two o’clock lunch reservation.”

  “Oh sure, Calvin’s a sweetheart,” Jazzmyne said with an innocent smile on her face. She batted her long black eyelashes.

  Candice tapped Jazzmyne on the shoulder.” Please put my
name on the volunteer list. I did hear Pastor Tellings say you didn’t have to be a member. Right?”

  “Yes, and thank you. I’ll be sure to add your name,” Jazzmyne confirmed.” I’ve got to go now. I won’t keep this man waiting another minute.” Jazzmyne’s emerald two-piece skirt suit softly hugged her full figure. Her hat and shoes were a lighter shade of green.

  “It’s so amazing how she turned her life around so fast,” Candice said.

  “She was down but never out,” Jada commented.” We have to remember each of us will be down at some point in our lives but we’re only out if we give up. Although it’s not wise, most people are only a paycheck away from being homeless. Jazzmyne’s circumstances were different but her end result from not saving money was common.

  “So how is Mr. Terrell Morgan doing these days?” Jada asked as she looked over the San Francisco Bay.

  “Well, let’s see. We still talk at least once a week and I am so tempted to have a serious relationship with him but long-distance never works out. Someone eventually ends up having to move and I don’t envision moving to Los Angeles and he’s at the peak of his career. Every modeling agency wants him.”

  Jada nodded.” We get at least three inquiries per day.” Terrell was labeled the new Tyson on the block.

  “I just don’t know.”

  “You don’t know what?”

  Candice sighed.” I know, girl, it is so unlike me. My heart says yes but my head says no. So until one or the other gives in, I’ll just be in limbo.”

  “As long as you realize he may not be in limbo as long as you, it’s cool.” Jada recognized this was the first time Candice was concerned about dating a younger man.

  “Oh, I know he’s not monogamous. We talk openly about everything.”

  “I’m not speaking of him being intimate with other women. I’m talking about him giving his heart to someone else.” Jada stopped in front of the valet sign. The parking lot was half-empty, a sign that most of the early-morning brunch goers had already left.

  “Hi, Jason. How’ve you been?” Jada asked as she gave her preferred host a warm hug.

  “I’m doing great. I’ll validate your parking ticket. Right this way, my favorite ladies,” Jason said. He still walked like a Marine. Jada and Candice mimicked him behind his back. He seated them at their favorite table overlooking the bay. Sailboats were docked right outside. Dozens more sailed by.

  Jason sounded like Jeffrey on Fresh Prince.” I saw that. The usual, ladies?”

  “Yes. Thanks, Jason.” Jada sat and watched the couple dock their boat and enter the restaurant.

  “Gosh, it feels great to be here. It’s been a long time,” Candice said with a warm look of endearment.

  Jada nodded slowly.” Too long.”

  “So tell me about the ring.” Candice held her mimosa like she was posing for a picture. Her pinky finger was extended.

  “Well, let’s see, where do I begin? Wellington made reservations at Bellagio in Las Vegas. The entire weekend was exhilarating. We arrived early Saturday morning. The limousine took us directly to the hotel.” Jada stared into Candice’s eyes.

  “We played, blackjack and slots. Then we walked over to New York, New York and rode the roller coaster, three times! “Jada fanned herself with one hand while she held her champagne glass of mimosa in the other.” I got dizzy just thinking about the roller coaster zooming around the top of the hotel. The first two times were a breeze. But by the third, Wellington and I both were holding on to one another.”

  Jada paused for a moment. Candice sat on the edge of her seat.” I just like being with him so much. I’m free to be myself. I don’t have to pretend. We like a lot of the same things. He’s caring and carefree at the same time.”

  Candice interrupted.” Get to the ring. Today is not the day to keep me in suspense.” Candice motioned to Jason and held up two fingers.

  Jada flattened her voice.” Okay. I was trying to set the mood for you but if you insist. Later that evening the orange, red, and yellow sunset was breathtaking. Wellington and I walked over to the Stratosphere and went to the observation deck.”

  Candice’s eyes widened.

  “He said I have something very special I want to give to you. He didn’t get down on one knee so I immediately dismissed the thought of an engagement ring. Actually, I didn’t think it was a ring at all.”

  Candice gave Jada that “Don’t go down that road, girlfriend” look.

  “He gazed into my eyes, licked his lips, and kissed me ever so softly on mine. Then he said he never wanted the sun to set again without the two of us having a commitment. He said he didn’t want to rush into an engagement but he wanted to acknowledge his love for me.” Jada quivered. Candice shivered.

  “He promised to love, respect, and protect me, always. If I hadn’t known better, I would have thought he was rehearsing his wedding vows. He promised me so many things. I thought I was dreaming.” Candice’s eyes were dazed. Jada placed her hands on top of her chest.

  “Then without speaking another word, he opened the box with this ring in it.” Jada held her hand in front of Candice so she could get a closer look. Embedded in the surface of the diamond was a specially designed soulmate logo.” He placed it on my right hand. Then he said, ‘With this ring I say unto you, Jada Diamond Tanner, you are my soulmate. Today. Tomorrow. Always. We are spiritually bonded. I want you to wear this ring on your right ring finger until we both feel it is time to move it to the left. When the time is right, we will jointly announce our engagement to our parents but I didn’t want to wait until then to let you know how much I love you, my Nubian Queen.’ “Jada remembered every single word.

  “Then he licked his lips again and we kissed under the sunset and held each other until the last ray of sunlight was overshadowed by a crescent moon. The rest is history and here we are, my friend.”

  Candice took a deep breath. Exhaled. Her shoulders rounded from a square position. “Jada, Wellington is so romantic. So, do you believe he’s really your soulmate?” Candice stared deep into Jada’s eyes. They had been friends so long; Jada knew Candice would decode every message.

  “I know he is.”

  Before Candice could respond, Wellington’s mother walked up to the table.” So how are you, darling?”

  “Oh, Mrs. Jones. How are you? This is my best friend, Candice Carol Jordan. Candice, this is Wellington’s mother, Mrs. Cynthia Elaine Jones.” Jada stood to give Cynthia a hug. Cynthia stepped backward and extended her hand.

  “I see, darling,” Cynthia commented.” Nice ring. Another gift from your father, I presume.”

  “It’s from Wellington.” Jada proudly held out her hand.

  “My Wellington?” Cynthia inquired. Her dialect shifted from semiformal to formal.” Well, at least he placed it on the appropriate hand.”

  Jada sat in silence and counted backward from ten. Cynthia had resurrected the hatred she’d harbored for those kids that tortured her.

  “Good day,” remarked Cynthia as she tucked her Gucci purse under her arm. Cynthia’s words sliced like a knife.

  “Damn!” Candice whispered.” Why didn’t you warn a sister about Broom Hilda? She’s a witch and a bitch!”

  “Is everything all right?” Jason asked.

  “We’re okay,” Candice replied. Jason walked away.

  Candice pushed back her seat.” You want me to go kick her ass? I’ll kick her straight up her uppity ass!” Candice paused. Her chest continued to rise and fall.” So what’s next?”

  “Life.” Jada sighed.” I’m not afraid. I plan to take it one day at a time. I love Wellington too much to let his mother come between us.”

  Chapter 6

  Over the next eleven months, Jada and Wellington fell fervently in love. There were no major obstacles—with the exception of Cynthia—in their relationship. Jada grew more comfortable with each passing day. Especially when it came to sex. Wellington had mastered her body from head to toe.

  “Wellington, we�
��ve got to get up and prepare for our parents. Your parents will be here in a few hours and I have to pick up my mother at one o’clock. And I still haven’t started cooking.”

  “Sssshhh, be quiet,” Wellington responded.” Relax. Don’t move. I’ll be right back.”

  Jada followed his instructions. Unclothed, Wellington went to the bathroom. Jada’s eyes followed as far as they could. She heard the familiar sound of fast running water. She smiled. Whenever Wellington rinsed his mouth with hot steamy water—as hot as he could stand it—she was in for a treat. Wellington returned to the bed and pulled back the covers. Jada parted her legs as wide as she could. He placed his warm lips against hers.

  Jada moaned, “Oh, Big Daddy, you know I can’t resist you when you do this to me.” She closed her eyes and totally submitted. She internalized all her senses. Her body embraced the warmth of Wellington’s tender lips. To Jada, oral copulation was the best legal drug on the open market. It was her sedative and stimulant, rolled into one.

  “Oh, yes. That’s the spot. Go nice and slow for Mama,” she whispered. Jada positioned Wellington’s head exactly where she wanted it. Then she wrapped her chocolate thighs around his ears.

  Jada yearned for a taste of Wellington’s throbbing caramel delight. She placed her index finger in her mouth and sucked it in and out. Wellington’s eyelids rolled back as he watched. Jada became more excited.

  His hands moved toward her breasts. He pinched her nipples. Wellington pressed firmly, then just a little harder and a little bit harder still. Jada grunted with delight. Wellington stimulated her clit. Jada concentrated to suppress the orgasm building up inside. It felt like steam about to burst through the hole in a kettle.

  She felt the tip of his tongue penetrate her vagina. Then suddenly Wellington sucked the little man right out of the boat. Jada was on the verge of climaxing. Wellington pressed his tongue against her clitoris. He held it there for a few seconds. He captured the little man again and this time held him hostage. The kitty whistled like a kettle. She pleaded with him to let the little man go free. She had exceeded her range of toleration for pleasure. Jada’s juices rushed from her pulsating lips to the tip of Wellington’s tongue. The liquid inside the kettle overflowed and drenched the burners. He quenched his thirst until she was drained.