𝐒𝐨𝐦𝐞𝐛𝐨𝐝𝐲'𝐬 𝐒𝐨𝐧 ⏧ Jey Uso

𝟎𝟐.

𝐂𝐡𝐚𝐩𝐭𝐞𝐫 𝐓𝐰𝐨

𝐒𝖾ρ𝗍𝖾ꭑᑲ𝖾𝗋 3, 2023
18 ω𝖾𝖾𝗄𝗌 ρ𝗋𝖾𝗀𐓣α𐓣𝗍

As Joshua walked into the arena, he held Natia's hand tightly, feeling the warmth and strength of her presence beside him. Their sons, Jaciyah, Jeyce, and Jamil, trotted ahead, their youthful energy bubbling over with excitement.

They were in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, for Natia's latest tour stop, and the atmosphere buzzed with anticipation. A camera crew trailed them, capturing behind-the-scenes footage for Natia's upcoming documentary—a testament to her journey as a performer and a mother.

This was a monumental night for Natia: her first performance since announcing her pregnancy. Joshua felt a flicker of anxiety as he observed the crowd outside the arena, filled with eager fans. He couldn't shake the worry about her being on her feet for the duration of the show.

But Natia, with her unshakeable confidence, reassured him, "I'll be fine, Joshua. I've done about twenty shows like this while pregnant. My body is used to it." Her determination was infectious, but as a protective partner, his instincts were hard to quell.

They settled in the dressing room, where Natia prepared for the evening. The scent of hairspray filled the air as stylists flitted around her, adjusting her hair and applying makeup with skilled hands.

Joshua's gaze fell on her costume, a stunning outfit that featured a corset. Despite its beauty, he felt a pang of concern. "Don't you think this might be too tight for you?" he asked, his voice laced with genuine worry.

"It's not a real corset," Natia replied, adjusting the fabric around her stomach. "I had them adjust it so it fits as I grow."

Joshua nodded, though he couldn't entirely shake his unease. He watched as Natia transformed into a vision of strength and grace, a powerful force ready to take the stage.

Once Natia was ready, she took a moment to gather herself. Joshua joined her and her crew backstage for a moment of prayer. He led the group, his voice steady and calm, offering thanks and asking for a successful show. "Amen," everyone echoed, a shared sense of purpose enveloping them as they prepared to step into the spotlight.

The concert began with a pre-recorded video montage that showcased Natia's journey as an artist—her past shows, her growth, and her unwavering spirit. The montage ended with a poignant image: Joshua's hand resting on Natia's baby bump as she dressed for the evening. It was a symbol of their bond and the new life they were bringing into the world.

As the video wall lifted, a brief pyrotechnics display lit up the arena, and Natia emerged on stage. She stood there for several seconds, soaking in the electrifying energy from the crowd before launching into "Artificial," backed by an extended timpani interlude.

The powerful opening set the tone for the night, and Joshua felt a swell of pride as he watched her sing, effortlessly weaving through choreography that showcased her talent.

From their VIP section in the front row, Joshua and the boys were transfixed. The arena was alive with lights and sounds as Natia moved gracefully, pouring her heart into each note. The next song, "Eyes Closed," featured explosive fireworks that illuminated the stage as she danced, further enthralling the audience.

When "Somebody's Son" followed, Natia dedicated the song to Joshua, her voice echoing through the arena. Joshua's heart swelled as she sang, her eyes glistening with emotion. It was a testament to their love and her appreciation for his support.

As the show progressed, Natia seamlessly transitioned into a mashup of "Pick Up" and "Stamina," incorporating vibrant elements from "Loi Mai Pe." The crowd sang along, caught up in the energy of the performance. "The One You Need" had Natia interacting with the audience, engaging them in a call-and-response that electrified the atmosphere. "Natia, I need you!" they echoed, a sea of voices united in celebration.

The choreography reached its peak during "Love On Me," where Natia and her female dancers performed synchronized movements, captivating everyone in the arena. The performance culminated in a traditional tauʻolunga dance, showcasing her heritage and artistry. Without missing a beat, she transitioned into "Ofa Mai," set to the infectious groove of "Ma Lo."

Over the course of the night, Natia performed over twenty songs, each one more powerful than the last. As she concluded with "Keys To The Kingdom" and "All Over," the crowd erupted in applause. The finale left them wanting more, and Joshua felt a rush of admiration for the woman who had just dazzled thousands.

Backstage, Natia emerged, breathless and glowing with the afterglow of her performance. Joshua met her with a towel and a bottle of water, his eyes filled with pride. "You were amazing out there," he praised, his voice warm with affection.

"Thank you," she replied, her lips brushing against his in a quick, tender kiss. The moment was brief but filled with meaning, a quiet reminder of their connection amid the whirlwind of the night.

After the concert, they headed to Waffle House, craving comfort food after an exhilarating evening. Joshua watched as Natia dove into her meal, her happiness radiating off her. "Did you enjoy your show tonight?" he asked, wanting to savor the moment.

"Yes," she beamed. "It was a great show. I'm so happy that so many people came out and enjoyed themselves." Her enthusiasm was infectious, and Joshua couldn't help but smile at her joy.

"When is the tour over?" Jaciyah piped up, his eyes wide with curiosity.

"I have three more shows before I end the tour for good," Natia replied, the weight of the upcoming finale evident in her voice.

"No more adding last-minute shows," Joshua said, a hint of seriousness in his tone.

Natia pursed her lips, her expression contemplative. "I won't," she promised, though the glint of determination in her eyes suggested she might still find ways to push her limits.

They finished their meals in a comfortable silence, the boys animatedly discussing their favorite moments from the concert. Eventually, they made their way to the hotel, ready to rest before their early flight back to Pensacola in the morning.

The next day, the atmosphere shifted. As they drove home, tension simmered just beneath the surface. An argument erupted between Natia and Joshua, words exchanged fueled by the stress of the tour and their differing perspectives.

The discussion grew heated, and before they knew it, Natia pulled the car into a detour towards her sister Naima's house, seeking refuge.

As they settled into Naima's living room, Natia felt the weight of the argument hanging heavy in the air. Naima, always perceptive, glanced at her sister, concern etched on her face. "Girl, are you not tired of chasing a good man away?" she asked, her tone both direct and caring.

Natia rolled her eyes, a reflex born from frustration. "He just does too much," she replied, crossing her arms defensively.

Naima kissed her teeth, shaking her head. "Umm, hello? Because he cares about you!" The emphasis on the last word hung in the air, a reminder of the love Joshua offered.

Natia fell silent, the weight of Naima's words settling over her.

"Honestly, Natia," Naima continued, her voice softer now but firm, "you're going to end up losing him because you're too scared to be happy. He's not your ex-husband. He isn't going to hurt you. I think Joshua would die before he treats you the way your ex did. Figure it out before you end up regretting everything and these babies are born in a broken home."

Natia sighed, her heart heavy with the truth in Naima's words. She felt the fear of vulnerability gnawing at her, a remnant of her past experiences. The thought of opening herself fully to Joshua terrified her, but as she looked around the room, filled with love and support, she knew she had to confront her fears if she wanted to build a future with him.

The conversation lingered in her mind, a reminder that love required risk, and she had to decide whether she was ready to embrace that risk wholeheartedly.