Island Love

Chapter 37: Testing the Waters

The day after YN's outing with the kids, Beyoncé had no idea that her closest friends were orchestrating a subtle investigation into her feelings about marriage. It had all been set up under the guise of a simple girls' night—just an opportunity for Beyoncé, Kelly, Solange, Michelle, and Angie to catch up and relax.
They gathered at a cozy rooftop bar, the city lights twinkling in the background as a light breeze rustled through their hair. Beyoncé had arrived first, looking effortlessly stunning in a casual yet chic ensemble. She was excited to let loose and have a good time after a week of intense rehearsals and work.
Kelly greeted her with a warm hug. "Girl, you are glowing!" she teased, eyeing Beyoncé playfully.
Beyoncé smiled, a knowing gleam in her eyes. "What can I say? Life is good."
Once the rest of the group arrived, the laughter and drinks flowed freely, and the atmosphere was easy, fun, and relaxed. They caught up on everything—work, family, and the usual gossip. But eventually, Michelle, always the sneaky one, steered the conversation in a more personal direction.
"So, Beyoncé," Michelle began with a sly grin, "it's been a whole year with YN, huh? How's everything going?"
Beyoncé took a sip of her cocktail, her smile widening. "It's been amazing, honestly. She's been so good to me and the kids."
Kelly leaned in, her voice conspiratorial. "So, do you think this is... it? Like, forever kind of 'it'?"
Beyoncé's smile faltered for a brief second, and she seemed to consider the question. "Forever? I mean, it's not something we've talked about yet. I don't want to rush anything."
Angie chimed in, pretending to be casual but clearly fishing for more. "But if she did bring it up... what would you say?"
Beyoncé paused, glancing around at her friends as if trying to gauge whether they were truly curious or if there was something more behind their questions. She twirled her straw in her drink thoughtfully before finally responding.
"I don't know," she admitted softly. "I love YN, like... truly love her. But marriage is... different. It's not just about love; it's about timing, being ready for the commitment. I'm not saying I'm against it, but I've been through it before. I want to make sure that, if we go there, we're both absolutely sure."
Kelly exchanged a quick glance with Michelle, who raised her eyebrows as if to say, "Okay, noted."
"Fair enough," Solange said, nodding in agreement. "But if anyone deserves happiness and a second chance at love, it's you, sis. And YN seems like she gets you in ways no one else has."
Beyoncé smiled warmly at her sister's words, feeling her heart swell. "She really does. She makes me feel seen in a way that's different from before."
"Sounds like you've already got your answer," Michelle chimed in with a wink, trying to keep the mood light.
Beyoncé chuckled, shaking her head. "Let's just say... I'm open to whatever the future holds."
Her friends beamed, satisfied with the response. YN had gotten her answer, albeit indirectly. Beyoncé wasn't against marriage, but she wanted to be sure. She needed reassurance and patience, which was exactly what YN was prepared to give her.
After a few more drinks, the night wrapped up with more laughter and a promise to do it again soon. As Beyoncé headed home, she couldn't help but feel grateful for her friends and the life she had built post-divorce. She was happy, genuinely happy, but she also knew that taking another plunge into marriage was not something she could rush.
The next day, YN decided it was time to spend more time with Beyoncé's kids again, especially since they had already shared such a meaningful day at the amusement park. Blue, Rumi, and Sir had been asking to see her, and YN was eager to strengthen her bond with them. After all, they were an essential part of Beyoncé's world, and if she was serious about her future with Bey, they needed to be a big part of it, too.
When she arrived at Beyoncé's house, the kids were waiting excitedly by the door, ready for another adventure. This time, YN had planned a simple afternoon—just a casual trip to the park, where they could run around, play, and just be kids.
As they sat on a park bench after running around, Sir and Rumi chased each other around a tree while Blue sat beside YN, her curiosity still intact.
"So, you and my mom... are you going to get married?" Blue asked, her tone casual but direct, just like last time.
YN smiled, grateful for Blue's honesty. "I don't know yet. Your mom and I are taking things slow. It's important to both of us that we're sure before making that kind of decision."
Blue nodded, her face serious. "That makes sense. But just so you know, I think you're good for her."
YN felt her heart warm at the twelve-year-old's words. "Thanks, Blue. That means a lot coming from you."
They spent the rest of the afternoon playing, laughing, and talking, the bond between them growing stronger with every passing moment. YN could see how much Beyoncé's kids adored her, and it only solidified what she already knew deep down—this was where she belonged.
Later that night, as YN and Beyoncé lay in bed, YN couldn't help but think about everything that had happened in the last year. From meeting Beyoncé to building a life with her and her kids, it all felt surreal.
"Hey," Beyoncé whispered, breaking the comfortable silence between them. "You've been quiet all night. What's on your mind?"
YN turned to face her, brushing a stray curl away from Beyoncé's forehead. "I've just been thinking... about us. About the future."
Beyoncé smiled softly, leaning into YN's touch. "I've been thinking about that too."
YN's heart skipped a beat at the words. Maybe, just maybe, the time would come sooner than she thought.