Hoops & Harmonies

56.

Monica stood in the hallway of their Chicago home, making sure everything was packed. She glanced over at Angel, who was double-checking the kids' bags for their trip to Atlanta. Their upcoming vacation to Belize was something they had both been looking forward to for weeks, but first, they had to get the kids settled with Monica's parents.

"You think they'll be okay with Nana and Papa?" Angel asked, zipping up Rodney's bag.

Monica smiled, nodding. "You know how much they love being there. My parents spoil them rotten."

Laiyah came skipping down the stairs, her backpack bouncing on her small frame. "I can't wait to see Nana! She promised we'd bake cookies."

Monica laughed, kneeling down to give Laiyah a quick hug. "I'm sure you'll have a great time, sweetie. Just remember to listen to Nana and Papa, okay?"

Melo and Rodney were already waiting by the front door, ready to head out. "Let's go," Melo said, checking his phone. "We don't want to miss our flight."

Angel shot him a grin. "Don't worry, we won't. Everything's on schedule."

Within minutes, they were out the door and heading to the airport. The kids were buzzing with excitement about seeing their grandparents, while Monica and Angel exchanged knowing glances, both eager for the alone time that awaited them in Belize.

The flight to Atlanta was smooth, and before long, they were pulling into the driveway of Monica's childhood home. Her parents were already waiting on the porch, wide smiles on their faces as they watched the car pull up.

"Nana! Papa!" Laiyah shouted as soon as she stepped out of the car, running toward her grandparents.

Marilyn, Monica's mother, scooped Laiyah up into a warm hug. "There's my girl," she said, beaming. "We've got so much planned for this weekend."

Rodney and Melo were right behind her, exchanging hugs with their grandparents, while Angel and Monica took a moment to stand back and watch. It was always a comforting sight, seeing their kids so happy and well taken care of.

"You're sure they won't be too much trouble?" Angel asked, half-joking as she hugged Marilyn.

Marilyn waved her hand dismissively. "Trouble? Never. You two go and enjoy yourselves. We've got this."

After helping the kids get settled, Monica and Angel kissed each of them goodbye, making sure they were comfortable before stepping outside. Angel pulled out her phone and quickly arranged for a driver to take them to the airport.

"You ready for some alone time?" Monica asked, a teasing smile playing on her lips.

Angel chuckled, slipping an arm around her waist as they walked down the driveway. "I've been ready. You've been talking about this trip for weeks, and I'm excited to see what you've got planned."

When they arrived at the private jet terminal, Angel's eyes widened slightly at the sight of the sleek aircraft waiting for them. "You really went all out, didn't you?" she asked, impressed.

Monica grinned, squeezing Angel's hand. "You deserve it. We deserve it."

The flight to Belize was serene. The private jet allowed them time to unwind, sip on champagne, and enjoy the quiet. Angel couldn't help but admire how much effort Monica had put into this trip. It had been a whirlwind of work and family commitments recently, and this vacation felt like a breath of fresh air.

After three hours in the air, the plane began its descent over the vibrant blue waters of Belize. Angel gazed out of the window, taking in the breathtaking views. "It's beautiful," she murmured.