Since 2nd Grade

The Opening of a Door.....

                       Venice, Italy

   The sun beamed gently whilst the wind pushed through the trees' leaves, leaving a chill upon Dulce's honey colored skin. She was, indeed, cold, but she was also frightened. Frightened by the actions that were being taken today. She walked inside of the church, where the reception would be held. It smelled of nothing, which made Dulce's stomach turn. She was used to scents to familiarize herself with settings, but this setting had no smell, which was troublesome for her. Nonetheless, she made her way to the room where she was to get made up to marry her fiancé.
   Ski sat back with his head held low. He was trying to reach his best friend for weeks to tell him about the wedding, but he lacked a response from all fronts. Maybe he was going to be surprised by his friend's appearance to the wedding reception. He sighed, and took a cautious sip of his ginger ale, which was spiked with Hennessey.

Dulce's POV
   "What are we going to do with your hair Miss Missy?"
   I asked, rustling the hair on Angelica's hair.
   "I no no mommy!"
   She yelled, running around the room. I laughed at her energetic, worryless being. We had to do a lot just to be here, at this wedding, but it's definitely worth it. Even with my hesitation and slight resistance, Ski's parents payed for the wedding. My parents, on the other hand, were nowhere to be found. I hadn't spoken to my dad since junior year, I think. He didn't even come to my graduation, nor did I invite him. I feel bad that our relationship isn't what it used to be, but it takes two to tango, and he's definitely got two left feet when it comes to dancing, or to be technical, fixing relationships. I looked at the vanity, and stared at my reflection. Pathetic. I sighed, and turned away. All of a sudden, I don't feel good enough to marry Ski. He's really great, and I'm just mediocre.
   "Mommy, can I go daddy?"
   Angelica pleaded, tugging on my jeans. I smiled, and picked her up.
   "We have to get you ready first, little miss cutie!"
   I said, tickling her with my one free hand. Laughter filled the room, and I began to get us ready to become an official family.

Ski POV
   "What time is it, ma?"
   I said, trying to adjust my tie correctly, while also pacing the room. I was beginning to sweat before we even said our vows, which is bad.
   "Boy, if you don't have a seat. The time is running on you, not the other way around. Relax. We're in Venice, now. Mama gonna enjoy this shit."
   My mom said, sipping on her daiquiri. She was right. I need to calm down. I'm marrying a beautiful woman who I have a child with. I'm so lucky. I took a deep breath, and another sip of my drink.
   "I'm gonna go check on Dulce. I'm so proud of you baby. You've got a beautiful baby, a beautiful soon-to-be wife, and a job, while still managing to still be able to chase your dreams. How does it feel? To be so set and prepared in life? Not everyone can receive that type of gift from God, baby. Let that sink in."
   My mom said, walking out. Just then, my dad walked in. They exchanged a kiss, and he came in as she went out. I smiled at him.
   "How do you feel son?"
   He asked, roughly placing his hand on my shoulder.
   "I feel great, pops. I'm glad I get the chance to just-"
   "Are you sure you're ready, Stokes?"
   He interrupted. I looked at him confused. I thought he was as excited as I was, but apparently not.
  "Man, I'm straight. We not you and mom. I'm not a cheater or liar."
   I spewed at him. He just tried to make me feel unsure about marrying the woman of my dreams, and all because he was a fuck up in his own relationship.
   "Damnit, Stokeley! Me and your- me and your mom talked about it. WE TALKED THROUGH IT! Don't try and make me feel guilty. We're fine. We're good!"
   He yelled, punching the wall one good time, making a small hole in it. He walked out before I could say anything. This day is coming together amazingly. What could get worse?
   "Thanks for the pep talk, dad. You're the best."
   I mumbled to myself.
  
 Dulce's POV
   "How's it going, sugar?"
   Ski's mom asked, sitting down on a chair.
   "It's going, you know?"
   I responded, adjusting Angelica's dress.
   "You're doing just fine, honey. Take a breather."
   She smiled with her eyes. She must've detected my tension and stress. I sighed.
   "I'm so ready for this. But, like, what if he isn't? What if this will just end up being my first marriage, instead of my only marriage?"
   I began to cry. Not pathetically, but really ugly. Loose snot was making its way down my nose, and she handed me a tissue.
   "Now, listen. You don't have to worry about that boy changing his mind about anything. When Stokeley is sure about something, there's no turning back for him. He's been wanting to become a rapper since 6th grade. There's your proof there, baby. All you need to worry about right now, at this moment, is that beautiful face of yours and how we're going to do this makeup!"
   She said excitedly, setting her drink down on a table next to her.
   As soon as we put the finishing touches on my makeup, there was a knock on the door.
   "Knock knock it's party o'clock!"
   A voice sang from the other side of the door. I ran to open it, knowing immediately who it was.
   "Shayla!"