Family Secrets

CHAPTER 20

Sandra watched her daughter closely deep in thought. She was so excited about her future with Austin. Sandra really liked him and saw the love and commitment he had for her daughter. She was happy that Jasmine had found someone well deserving of her. Austin was faithful, loyal, funny, respectful, caring, supportive, and God-fearing. Sandra and Brian got to know him more over the next two weeks and liked his devotion and care toward Jasmine. In private conversations, they talked about marriage and future plans. Sandra and Brian could not wait for a proposal in the near future. Austin was the real deal and they were beyond happy for Jasmine.

"Penny for your thoughts," her mother said sitting next to her daughter. Jasmine smiled holding her mother's hand. "Just a little nervous about seeing Peter today," Jasmine admitted. "We all are. Each of us has to say our piece and forgive him," Sandra admitted. They had all agreed that Jasmine was not going to do this alone. Several family members had seen Peter and said what needed to be said and their goodbyes. However, Jasmine was the victim so she needed to say the most. "The Holy Spirit will give you the words to say," her mother encouraged her. Jasmine hugged her mother. "And that man of yours will be right by your side. I am sure Peter won't know what hit him," Sandra reassured her. "Mom," Jasmine said. Jasmine was still getting used to people calling Austin her man and boyfriend. Of course, he loved the labels and encouraged them. Over the last two weeks they were out and about together so most of the family now had something new to talk about. 

Sandra laughed at her daughter knowing she was shy about the relationship. "That man really loves you. Do you see a future with him?" Sandra asked. She wanted her baby to be prepared because the way Austin talked he was ready to marry her daughter. Jasmine smiled, "I do."

 "I know," her mother grinned. "It's amazing how he and Brian hit it off," Jasmine said. "Yes, it's nice. He is the brother Brian never had," her mother smiled. "Mom, you act as if we a married," Jasmine joked. "Maybe not yet but one day," Sandra confessed. Jasmine's eyes widened reading what her mother said. She wondered about the private conversations Austin and her mother had. Jasmine had no idea that marriage was on his mind right now. She had to put it at the back of her mind for now because she had to get through the day. "Are you ready to go?" Sandra asked holding her hands. Jasmine nodded her head. Seeing Peter would be the final closure she needed.

Jasmine tried to calm her nerves as she sat in the waiting area. Her mother and aunt went in to see Peter. Everyone was saying goodbye and releasing buried emotions and hurt that were hidden for years. Austin sensed her nervousness and held her hand. Jasmine briefly closed her eyes and asked God to help her get through this. Her mother and aunt came out of the room with teary eyes. Jasmine got up and Austin stood right by her side. She hugged her mother and aunt who seemed at a loss for words after leaving the room. Jasmine felt weak in the knees and wondered if she could do this. "I am right here beside you," Austin said bracing her up. Jasmine shook her arms and legs getting cold feet. "You can do this," Austin said looking directly at her. 

Jasmine took a deep breath and entered the room with Austin close beside her. Peter looked up fragile and weak as they entered the room. Jasmine gasped at the small frame, sully eyes skinny frame before her. "Jasmine," Peter said hoarsely. Peter looked up at the white gentleman who never left Jasmine's side.

Jasmine could not believe this was the same man from her childhood who looked pale, sick, and weak on his deathbed. "I am so sorry," he wept uncontrollably at that moment. "Please........ he cried out. Forgive me," he begged as he looked at her. Jasmine was still in shock and had nothing at that moment. Austin got worried when she didn't talk and wondered if it was too much for her. Austin decided to say his piece until Jasmine gathered her thoughts. "You don't get a free pass because you are dying," Austin said bluntly.  "This woman means the world to me. I love her with all my heart and will never let anyone hurt her again. You did not stop her from becoming the intelligent, committed, and driven woman she is today. She is everything to me," Austin said starting to get emotional.

Jasmine touched him and said, "I love you but I have to do this myself." "Give me a few minutes alone with him," Jasmine instructed. Austin ran his hands through his hair confused, He did not like the idea of leaving her alone. "Trust me this is what I need," she continued bravely. Although he did not like it he respected her wishes. "I will be standing right outside the door if you need me," Austin said reluctantly. Jasmine knew she needed this because Peter could never hurt her again. She was not going to allow fear to stop her from fighting for the closure she needed.