Finding Us (Interracial Romance)

Anchored in Faith and Family

Cecilia

I can feel the quiet hum of the organ music vibrating through the sanctuary as I slip into the pew next to my mother and Jake. The sunlight streams through the stained-glass windows, casting soft beams of purple and blue over the congregation. Today, the colors seem even more vibrant, or maybe it's just me. I'm still on a bit of a high from Sylvia and Noah's wedding last night, where everything felt like magic. I was so happy to see her and Noah finally have their day. Now, this Sunday morning feels like a grounding moment—a moment to be still.

"How are you feeling this morning, mija?" My mom whispers, reaching over and squeezing my hand. Her eyes are warm and searching, always picking up on my moods.

"I'm good, Mami," I whisper back, offering her a soft smile. The truth is, I am good, though my mind keeps drifting between last night's laughter and the fact that tomorrow is Monday and back to work in addition to Jeremy begging me to forgive him. A part of me still can't believe everything that's happening—Sylvia and Noah's wedding, my career, and, of course, the Grammy nomination.

I notice Jake giving me a side-eye from where he's sitting, arms crossed like he's still not over the fact that we dragged him here instead of letting him sleep in. He's always been the rebellious one when it comes to church, but he's here for Mami. Zayna is standing besides Jake, swaying to the organ.

"Glad you could make it, Jake," I tease quietly, nudging his arm. He rolls his eyes, a smirk tugging at the corner of his mouth.

"You're lucky I love you," he mutters, and I chuckle softly.

The organ fades into silence and the familiar voice of Pastor Jerome booms from the pulpit. He's a tall man with a booming presence, yet he always has a way of making the church feel like home. His warm baritone is full of energy, but there's a tenderness in how he approaches the Word.

"Good morning, Church!" He greets with a wide smile, spreading his arms out as if to embrace us all. "Isn't it a beautiful day to be in the house of the Lord?"

The congregation responds in unison, "Amen!"

"As I was preparing this week's message," Pastor Jerome continues, his eyes scanning the room, "the Lord reminded me of the importance of seasons in our lives. Some of us are in a season of harvest, where everything is falling into place. Others are in a season of sowing, where it feels like hard work and waiting are all we know. But no matter the season, God is present."

I let the words sink in. His voice is comforting, a reminder that even when things feel uncertain, there's a bigger plan at work.

"You may be in a season of breakthrough," he says, raising his hand. "Or you might be in a season of testing. But let me tell you this, Church—God is always on time. He knows when you need rest, when you need growth, and when you need to reap what you've sown."

A murmur of agreement ripples through the congregation.

"This reminds me of Ecclesiastes 3:1," Pastor Jerome continues, "To everything there is a season, a time for every purpose under heaven. Sometimes, we don't understand why God puts us through certain trials, but we have to trust that He is working all things together for good."

I nod along, feeling the truth of his words. Life has definitely thrown some curveballs, but I've learned to lean into faith, even when I don't understand everything.

"And speaking of seasons," Pastor Jerome suddenly shifts his tone, and there's a glimmer of joy in his eyes. "I want to take a moment to acknowledge someone in this congregation who's been in a beautiful season of growth and harvest. Cecilia Evans, would you please stand?"