Temporary Affair (slow updates)

sixty three - lover's den pt 3

Stevie and Tremaine exited the bathroom, their faces flushed from the small incident with Stevie's mother. They exchanged a glance, a mixture of amusement and relief, after a long chat, they made their way back to the engagement party. The soft hum of conversation and the clinking of glasses filled the air, a stark contrast to the tense, intimate moment they had just shared.

The backyard was adorned with twinkling fairy lights, that seemed to shine brighter, as the sun started to set. Casting a warm glow over the gathering. Friends and family milled about, laughter and chatter creating a festive atmosphere. Tremaine gently squeezed Stevie's hand, offering her a reassuring smile before he stepped forward to gather everyone’s attention.

"Yo, everyone, can I have your attention, please?" Tremaine's deep voice carried across the yard, silencing the murmurs as heads turned toward him. He stood tall, his presence commanding yet gentle. Stevie watched him, her heart swelling with love and pride.

"First, I want to thank all of you for being here tonight. Your support and well wishes mean the world to Stevie and me." He paused, his eyes sweeping over the crowd. "But tonight, I have an important announcement to make."

The crowd fell silent, anticipation hanging in the air.

"As many of you know, I've dedicated a large part of my life to being a boss, and to my business. It's been a rewarding journey, filled with challenges and triumphs. But, after much thought and consideration, I've decided it's time for me to retire."

"Tremaine." Stevie's breath caught in her throat at his words. This wasn't something the couple had talked about beforehand. 

A collective gasp rippled through the crowd, followed by murmurs of surprise. Tremaine continued, his gaze focused on Stevie.

"This decision wasn't made lightly. It came from a place of love and a desire to prioritize what truly matters." His voice softened, becoming more intimate. "My dad once told me, 'One day you'll meet a woman, or person, whomever you choose to love, and they'll make you realize how nothing in this world could make you happy or feel as cherished as they do.'"

He smiled at Stevie, the depth of his affection clear in his eyes. "I didn't understand at first. But, after meeting Stevie and getting to know this amazing woman, experiencing her in every way and season, from anger to vulnerability to happiness, I saw the raw and real moments of who she was. It made me realize that some things can't be bought. Some of the best things to exist on this earth are truly free."

Stevie's eyes glistened with unshed tears, her heart pounding in her chest, as she studied her lover's face.

"So, with that being said," Tremaine continued, "I'm not getting any younger. It's time for this man to settle down. I'm ready to have my pretty housewife, and our three kids playing in the front yard near my wife's vegetable garden, while I fix up my old Monte Carlo. I'm ready for real this time y'all. I'm ready to be in love with this woman for the rest of my life."

He pulled Stevie into his side, closer, kissing her temple tenderly. "The rest of my life," he repeated softly.

Stevie, overcome with emotion, grabbed his face and pressed a heartfelt kiss against his lips. "I love you so much, Tre."

"I love you most, kitten," Tremaine whispered back, his voice filled with unwavering devotion.

The crowd erupted into applause, cheers of joy and congratulations filling the air. Stevie and Tremaine stood together, wrapped in each other’s arms, as their future stretched out before them, bright and full of promise.