Finding Us (Christian Interracial Romance)

Psalm 7:17

Three Months Later - February 5, 2023

Cecilia

"Oh, my gosh, CeCe! You look so gorgeous!" Misty flatters me, her eyes wide with admiration.

"Thank you!" I reply, turning to the mirror to see the reflection of a woman who, for tonight, feels like she belongs among the stars. My apricot formal dress sparkles with sequin decor embellishing the sheer mesh panel of the bustier, which boasts a sweetheart neckline. The short bat-wing sleeves create a ruched look, adding an extra touch of elegance. The high-waist mermaid skirt stops at my ankles, with a high slit on the left side, revealing a pair of black tie-leg chunky heeled strappy sandals. A gold three-piece rhinestone jewelry set complements my outfit, along with a matching forehead head chain whose tassels brush against my forehead with every move. My armpit-length, flat-ironed tresses, is meshing with a black V part wig cascading down my back, the ends curled in perfection. My makeup is impeccable, with lips lined in homage to the 90's, but with a touch of natural glamour.

"Yo, Cecilia! We got to go hit that red carpet," Reagan reminds me, her voice pulling me back to reality.

As I take one last look in the mirror, I feel a warmth settle over my shoulders, like a gentle hand resting there. It's familiar—comforting in a way that transcends the physical.

You are exactly where I need you to be, daughter. 

Th voice isn't audible, not in the way human voices are, but I hear it nonetheless. It resonates in the deepest part of my spirit, where truth lives untainted by doubt or fear. 

I close my eyes for just a moment,my hand instinctively move to my chest. "Thank You," I whisper, so quietly that even Misty doesn't hear me over the bustle of preparation around us.

Tonight will test you. But remember—you carry My light into dark places. That is your calling.

A shiver runs through me, but it's not from cold or fear. It's the kind of shiver that comes when you know you're standing on the edge of something significant, something that will require every ounce of faith you possess. 

"Cece? You good?" Misty asks, touching my arm gently. 

I open my eyes and nod, offering her a genuine smile. "Yeah, I''m good. Just... taking it all in."

********** 

We finally pull up to the Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles. Photographers flash their cameras at the stars and call out their names. I hear my name being called and one of the photographers asks me to strike a pose. I smile at the camera, feeling the weight of the moment. 

"Congratulations, Cecilia! How does it feel to be here at the Grammy's with a nomination for Flowers?" The interviewer asks, her voice friendly yet expectant. 

I tuck a loose strand of hair behind my ear, the nerves bubbling beneath my calm exterior. I offer a humble smile. "Thank you so much! It's honestly a huge blessing just to be here. I'm really grateful to God for this moment and for all the love Flowers has received. To me, it's already a win just to share my music with people."

The interviewer nods, her enthusiasm unwavering. "That's so refreshing to hear. Your EP is such a beautiful mix of genres—gospel, bachata, soul, R&B, and so much more. What inspired you to create such a unique blend?"

I take a breath, thinking back to the countless late nights and the way my heart pours into each track. "You know, Flowers is really about my journey—about growing, dealing with loss, and finding joy again. And most importantly, keeping Jesus at the center of it all. I wanted to make something that people could connect with on different levels. Like, whether you're going through a rough time or you just want to dance, there's a song for you in there."