Breaking Free

32.

Kierra and Tasha had been running around all week finalizing plans for their wedding and taking the first steps toward starting their family. The pace of it all was starting to catch up with them, but Kierra couldn't help feeling a mixture of excitement and nervousness. Today was another packed day of wedding decisions, a call to her mom Karen to catch her up on the wedding plans, and an important doctor's appointment with Dr. Adams for their fertility tests.

The morning sun was creeping through the blinds as Kierra sat on the couch, her phone in hand. She took a deep breath and smiled as she glanced over at Tasha, who was sipping her coffee at the kitchen counter.

"We've got a big day ahead of us," Kierra said, tucking a strand of hair behind her ear. "But first, I need to call my mom and update her on the wedding plans."

Tasha looked up from her coffee with a grin. "Good idea. She'll want to know every little detail. I bet she's already got her outfit planned."

Kierra laughed. "You know her too well."

Kierra dialed her mom's number and leaned back on the couch. Karen answered after just one ring.

"Hey, baby girl!" Karen's warm voice came through the phone. "How's everything going? You've been so busy lately, I was about to call and check in on you."

Kierra smiled, feeling the familiar comfort of her mom's voice. "Hi, Mom! Things are going great, just a little hectic with all the wedding stuff. That's actually why I'm calling—I wanted to fill you in on what we've decided so far."

Karen sounded thrilled. "Oh, I've been dying to hear about it! What's the latest? Have you picked a venue?"

"Yes, we toured a few places, and I think we've settled on a beautiful loft downtown," Kierra said. "It's got this modern, industrial vibe, but it's still elegant. The space is perfect for the kind of wedding we're envisioning. Tasha and I both loved it."

"Oh, that sounds gorgeous!" Karen exclaimed. "I can already picture it. What about colors? Have you chosen those yet?"

Kierra nodded, even though her mom couldn't see her. "Yes, we're going with deep navy and gold. Navy for the bridesmaids' dresses and gold accents for the decor—like the table settings and flowers. Our wedding planner, Sophia, is going to pull it all together."

"Those colors are so classy, Kierra," Karen said with approval. "I'm sure it'll be stunning. You girls have such good taste. What else have you decided on?"

"We're thinking of having a live band for the reception," Kierra continued. "Tasha's really excited about that. We want it to be elegant but still fun, and we're also planning to have a photo booth for guests to take pictures."

Karen laughed softly. "A live band and a photo booth? Sounds like you're going to have the wedding of the year! I can't wait. Have you thought about invitations yet?"

"That's on our to-do list for this week," Kierra said. "Sophia's going to send us some design options. We're thinking something simple but elegant, maybe with gold lettering to match the decor."

Kierra paused for a moment, feeling a little giddy as she prepared to share a big piece of news with her mom. "Oh, and there's one more thing we're thinking about that I think you're going to love, Mom."

Karen's voice perked up with curiosity. "What is it? Don't keep me in suspense!"

Kierra grinned, glancing over at Tasha, who was watching her with a knowing smile. "So, Tasha and I were talking, and we thought it would be amazing to have a special performance at the reception. We're thinking about asking Faith Evans to perform."