COLOR ME PROPER

CMP_042

UNITED

To him everything in his life was finally going well. His children and the woman he loved were now living with him. Although this is not how he wanted to have his family under his roof but it was good enough. Akilah called constantly, sometimes begging and crying for another chance, on other days cussing him out and on other days threatening him and his family. He made sure to beef up security and not tell Amara about this as not to stress her. Business was booming and he was a few days away from closing more deals. Hence he was shocked to find her packing her and the children's luggage.

" What's wrong?"

" I'm leaving. I'm sorry but I can no longer stay in this house. Not since your mother came here."

" What?! How?"

" That's a question you should ask your security."

" What did she say? Did she do anything to you and the kids?"

" I guess they let her in since she's your mother and all but she didn't do anything. I just felt if she can find this place then so can Akilah and I'm not risking our lives again. I've called-"

" Whoa! Whoa! There's no need to call anyone. I'll go ask the security guys how they let her in and deal with them accordingly. If I need to move us or get new security men I will but I'm not allowing you to leave alone."

" It's not about you! It's about my our safety, especially my kids and right now I don't feel safe being around you and in this town. I'm leaving before Akilah finds me and nothing you'll say will stop me."

" Fine. I wasn't going to stop you but was going to suggest we all leave."

She did not expect him to agree with him and for a second she stood dumbfounded before going back to packing her clothes again.

" I failed to protect you guys and that will always be my biggest regret, failing you and our kids. When I prayed in the hospital, I promised the Greater Power that if he kept both of you for us I'll protect you with all my life and I'm keeping that promise."

" Oh. There's something I need to tell you."

" Wait I'll be back."

He left the room to talk to the security.

" I've booked you a hotel for two nights."

" I thought you were coming too?"

" Yeah in a couple of days. Hopefully by the Thursday I'll have a house for us and I'll be able to join you then."

" You're getting us a new house?"

" Yes what do you look so suprised? It's long over due_ so is this."

He got down on her knees and pulled a tiny box out of his pocket. He had had this before they even moved here but could not propose to her because he had already proposed to Akilah. He felt obligated, that he owed her that much with everything she had done for him but he knew better now. He understand now that Loyalty killed a country and as much as he had history with Akilah she was no longer who he loved.

" Amara would you marry me?"

He feared that she might not agree since he was still married to Akilah but he waited with baited breath.