The Reaper

RESPECT

Two months have passed and I was on cloud nine. Ludovic asked me to travel with him. I was scared at first but I realized I was now a widow and had no one to answer to...PTSD is real.

Being closed off from the world was so peaceful, relaxing and rejuvenating. No phones or social media...just private beaches, warm cozy cabins, nice music and good food.

Most importantly I was spending time with Ludovic. I know it may sound naive of me but I'm truly in love with that man.

Eventually, I reached out to my mother and she sobbed on the phone, happy to hear my voice.

"I'm so sorry, Femi. If there's anything you need, let me know."

"Thanks, Mommy."

"I know it's hard losing the love of your life but it will get easier in due time."

I did my best to not give away signs of me not giving a fuck that he was gone.

"Yeah, he's in a better place now."

There was a short pause.

"Femi, are you around the family that killed your husband?"

I knew it was coming. "No mother."

"Mrs. Tega said you were having an affair with a Severna."

I sighed. "She sure loves to gossip..."

"Well, between you and me, I was hoping it was true. All the damn cheating Manny has done...it serves that bastard right."

"Mommy, whoa!" I giggled and she joined me.

"I love you, Femi. I don't care who you share your bed with, as long as you're happy."

My eyes began to water. "Thanks Mommy, I love you too."

"Are you happy, Femi?"

"Yes, very happy."

I could feel her energy calming even over the phone. My mother's voice became relaxed.

"Well, remember to call me from time to time so I know my baby is safe, okay?"

"Yes Ma'am."

I was so glad I called her, it's exactly what I needed.

***

"Are you okay, baby?"

Ludovic asked as we rode down the highway. It's been eight months of me living under the radar. He still comes and goes as he pleases without any worry since he's part demon. I've learned so much about him...his parents, abilities and the demon species. His life story was so sad yet inspiring.

I knew there were things he did for a living that he didn't tell me but I have learned to pick my battles.

Femi, if it ain't broke don't fix it.

My issues with my late husband's family came to a head a few months ago. Once it was time for me to come collect what's mine as Manuel Tega's widow, all hell broke loose. I officially became a multi millionaire and the hate in his mother's eyes as she held MJ will forever be etched on my mind.

When I learned that Sharla became a casualty too, I felt bad for their son. Both of his parents are gone and his father was the one who killed his mother.

Now Ludovic and myself were on our way to a charity event and my anxiety was through the roof.

"If you want to go back home, we can."

He's so beautiful.

Ludovic has been so wonderful and patient with me. I stared at the rock on my finger.

"Some of your family will be at the charity. What if they don't accept us being together?"

"You'll still be my fiance and I'll still love you."

I gave a soft smile at his words. He really does have my back and I decided I'm going to face my fears.

"Okay, I'm not going to keep hiding...I love you and I don't care if people know."

He gave me a smile then we pulled up to the venue. Valet opened my car door and lended me a hand.

Fuck it...I'm ready.

I held my head high as we walked inside. Deja vu hit me seeing people wearing beautiful gowns and expensive tuxedos while servers walked around with silver trays of wine and champagne.

Ludovic held my hand, walking through a blue curtain.

"SURPRISE!"

My eyes widened in shock when I realized both my family and his were standing in front of me. The room was decorated in black and turquoise colors with big balloon letters saying happy birthday. My birthday was a few days ago and we celebrated alone.

"B-Baby, is this real?" My hands shaked.

"Yes, it's very real."

His family greeted me with hugs and congratulations on our engagement. My parents gave me a hug and I cried when I saw Star.

"Starberry!" I shouted and she gave me the tightest squeeze.

When my emotions calmed I stood next to the man I loved and held onto his arm.

"Baby, this is the best birthday I ever had. I'll never forget this night."

He held me close then kissed my lips. Once he pulled away his eyes glowed red for a few seconds then went back to normal.

"I told you there's nothing to be afraid of, Femi. You're with me now."

My heart melted cause he kept his word.

I wasn't going to let my past make me bitter, angry or stop me from believing in love. I'm Femi Moreau, if I do that my enemies win...Manny wins.

With Ludovic, I felt protected, loved and most importantly, respected.

That's all I ever wanted and I look forward to being Mrs. Femi Moreau-Severna.

I win.
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