Breaking Free

56.

The next morning, the sunlight peeked through the curtains of their hotel room as Kierra stirred awake. She felt Tasha's steady breathing beside her, their bodies still close after the deep conversation from the night before. Kierra's mind was already turning to what lay ahead—talking to Uncle Kirk, making plans, preparing for the tour. There was excitement, but also the lingering concern from their discussion.

Tasha's protectiveness was something Kierra had always loved about her, but now it felt even more intense with the baby on the way. She appreciated Tasha's concern, but there was a part of her that couldn't ignore the opportunity waiting for her.

As Kierra carefully slid out of bed, trying not to wake Tasha, she thought about the legacy she'd be carrying on. The idea of standing on stage with her mom, aunts, and gospel legends like Kirk Franklin, Marvin Sapp, Fred Hammond, and Yolanda Adams gave her chills. It felt like destiny. But she knew Tasha's fears weren't unfounded—this wasn't just about her anymore.

Kierra headed into the bathroom to wash up, her hand instinctively resting on her small but growing belly. She was determined to find the balance between following her passion and being mindful of her health.

When she came back out, Tasha was awake, sitting up in bed, rubbing her eyes. "Morning, baby," she said sleepily, giving Kierra a soft smile.

"Morning," Kierra replied, her heart warming at the sight of her wife. She climbed back into bed, resting her head on Tasha's shoulder.

Tasha kissed the top of her head. "How're you feeling?"

"Better," Kierra said honestly. "I've been thinking about what we talked about last night, and I promise I'll pace myself. I won't do anything to put the baby at risk."

Tasha nodded, but Kierra could tell the concern was still there. "I just want to make sure you're not taking on too much, Ki. You know how you get when you're in your element."

"I know, I know," Kierra replied, sitting up a little to look at her wife. "But this is important to me, Tasha. And I'll take care of myself. You'll be there to remind me if I forget, right?"

Tasha let out a soft laugh. "Oh, I'll remind you, alright."

Kierra leaned in and kissed her softly, feeling the weight of the conversation lift a little. "I love you for that."

"I love you too," Tasha said, her voice gentle. "Just be careful, okay?"

"I will," Kierra promised, and with that, the tension between them eased.

Later that day, after they'd had breakfast and taken a moment to enjoy the calm of the hotel, Kierra made the call to Kirk Franklin. She stepped out onto the small balcony, the breeze brushing against her skin as the phone rang.

"Uncle Kirk!" Kierra greeted with a bright smile when he picked up.

"Kiki! My girl, how's it going?" Kirk's booming voice came through the phone, full of warmth.

"I'm good! Just wanted to talk to you about the tour," Kierra said, pacing the balcony as she spoke.

"Ah, you've been thinking about it, huh? What's the verdict?" Kirk asked.

Kierra took a deep breath. "I want to do it, Uncle Kirk. I really do. It's an incredible opportunity, and being able to share the stage with you, Mommy, my aunts, and everyone—it would mean the world to me."

There was a pause on the other end of the line before Kirk responded, his tone thoughtful. "I'm glad to hear that, Kiki. I know you'll bring something special to this. But you sure you're up for it? I know you're expecting, and we all want you to be healthy."