Federie

11

Amryl

Two years had passed since the dinner Omir made for me. A lot had happened in that time. I was hoping things between him, Bria and Narobi would die down. I was wrong. The more I hoped they would let it go the more that came out. Turns out he was not the guy in the video, but a look alike, AMARI!

I was sitting in a meeting with him, the day after my date with Omir, my phone went off and he reached to see if it was his brother. The video was still pulled up and he tapped it. He said I know those girls did not record us. My eyes went directly to his face when I realized he was looking at my phone.

That's you I said? He admitted it was. He says he was blowing off steam with Ella. I told him they told his brother it was him. Narobi even told him she was pregnant. He was shocked at first but then said it couldn't have been him as he was there all night, that they thought he was drunk...I didn't care that he didn't elaborate further.

So Omir was right he only slept with Bria, but that wasn't what he needed to worry about. Come to find out Yana was his real problem. The unknown number that called him was her. She was wondering what had him so preoccupied, as he always made time for her.

She cornered us out on the boardwalk one day. We were having ice cream and had planned to end up on the beach. It was cut short when I realized this was a confrontation she wanted to have with us both. She told him she had been to see the doctor and she was pregnant. His face went pale, telling me all I needed to know.

She really let him have it and there wasn't much I could do because I knew nothing about the situation. All I did know is that she had a bump in her stomach and she was in fact pregnant. Unlike Bria and Narobi, this story was real. She showed him the ultrasound in her anger and he looked at me with remorseful eyes.

After she had said all she wanted to say, out in a public place, he simply responded you know I'll take care of mine. She smirked at me as she walked off. Omir was quiet for a moment, but explained that He and Yana were in a committed relationship that lasted 3 years. They broke up mutually. Then, she was pregnant but the timeline was consistent with their time together.

I tried to be understanding as I knew he was going through a lot. I didn't want the stress this new information brought, if I was being honest. I told him we could remain friends and I wished him well. It hurt because I really did love him. We had gotten so close and everything was perfect. I knew it hurt him to have to openly deal with all the drama, plus lose me too. The last thing I wanted was to be a stressor to him as well. However, I was set to start a new semester for med school and I couldn't take all that on, plus run a firm. I was moreso heartbroken, but I had to protect my peace.

--

I was on my way to have lunch with my girls when I heard Amari's new single, titled "Two Sides." It was really good, catchy! After listening to the words carefully I realized he was talking about me!

Apryl: Did you hear Amari's new song Nina

Nina: Yes almost like he was talking about Am

Rena: I think it was about Am, how many girls his brother liked and he did too?

Lena: Let's wait for her to get here so we can ask her directly

Ray: Right! She'll tell us

Am: What are you guys talking about?

I arrived at a nice barista not far from the boardwalk that rendered an end to my new found relationship months earlier. I saw the girls talking and hurried as I didn't want to miss the good parts.

Apryl: We talking about your ex brother in law's song

Nina: Apryl! Give her a chance to sit down

Rena: Am is that song about you?

Lena: It is isn't it? Why didn't you tell us you had them both sprung?

Sel: Uh Uh I know in my heart you didn't date them both and not tell us!

Me: First off can I order myself a drink and I will catch everyone up

We sat there talking about it all. When I was done they couldn't believe it. I ended with telling them Omir and I decided, together, that we were better off as friends. I had a lot I wanted to focus on. They were all saddened at the news. I had kept it to myself for months.

__

I was coming to an end to my semester. I felt really great about it. With only a year left to be completely done, I was excited I could finally see the graduation line. Omir and I would text or call, mainly FaceTime, every now and then, but he had a lot going on still and I understood. Yana had given birth to a boy and he was very much Omir's twin. He phoned me one day when he had him and I told him how beautiful he was. He was taking being a father very serious and I didn't want to make him feel bad, so I allowed us to drift apart, as it was needed for him to focus.

I had registered for another semester of med school and was heading to my parents where my brothers and their families were having a dinner for them. When I arrived, it felt like old times and I immediately wanted to leave.

Daddy: Hey Princess glad you could make it

Mom: Yes we're glad you took time away from your busy life for us

Jaye: Mom the last part though?

Jme: Hey baby sis, what's new

Jaxs: Great to see you always. How's med school going?

Me: Thanks everyone! Jaye it's okay, wouldn't be home without a little friction. Jme nothing's new just school and finishing. Jaxs it is going well, in just 3 semesters I will be done. I'm both excited and nervous. It's great to see you all with your wives and kids. I'm sure mom and dad appreciate having all their kids home.

Kelly and Lyssa were handling the kids as we all sat down. Selena was in the bathroom.

Daddy: We do. We're hoping one day, you will give us some grands that we can hold

Mom: I second that you're not getting younger, you're already 20 years old!

Jaye: Again, mom really! She broke up with Aryan not even 2 years ago. Give her a break

Mom: We want grand babies, I'm sorry if you're not as excited to be an uncle again!

Jme: Am take your time. You're still young. You have your head on straight. Your Mr Right is out there and he will be along any moment now.

Jaxs: You never told us what happen exactly with Aryan. Care to share?

Me: No I do not. I do hope I marry and give you guys grands while you still here with us, mom. Don't think I just want to settle for anything though.

Mom: Amari was a nice guy

Me: Mom that's Omir's brother, I couldn't do that to him. I love Aryan! I know that's hard for you to wrap your mind around, but I still love him even after everything that happened. So can we change the subject.

Mom: Why not he seemed just fine last time I saw him. He had a baby with him, he should looked about two...it's not hard to put two and two together

Jaye: Sis, he cheated on you?

Me: No he did not, but yes he does have a toddler now. It was before us. That's all I want to say on it. So what's new with everyone else? Let's get the lime light off of me, I don't like it.

Jaye: Well you know JJ has a baby on the way...I can't believe I'm a grandfather already

Daddy: Well at least he did wait until you were older, unlike you making your mom and I grandparents pretty young off

Mom: I didn't mind you turned out just fine

Jaxs: Only because Am paid off most of our debt! Thanks again by the way

Jme: Yeah that really helped us out big time! We cannot say thank you enough. Even though I know you're tired of hearing us thank you for it, THANK YOU AM!

Jaye: Sis I really do appreciate that, like every time I think about it, I want to say thank you whether you're around or not.

Daddy: Princess that was very kind of you, it must have cost you some nice change

Mom: It was the least you could do for all the trouble you caused

Daddy: Chris don't start this. She didn't owe any of us anything! Don't you forget that. I have no idea what has you in a mood, but you're starting to piss me off!

Mom: There you go taking up for the little bit-

Daddy: I wouldn't finish that statement if I was you! My daughter, out of the kindness of her heart, after all she had been through, paid off all of our debts and all you can do is shout derogatory remarks to her? You don't think something is wrong here? Or do you find it hard to thank the one person you gave the most HELL?

Mom: Thank you Amryl, your father is right. How could I be so unappreciative. Guess that's something else I need to work on

Me: Mom I never asked you to thank me. I didn't even want you guys to know that I did it. I just simply wanted my family out of debt. You all are more than welcomed. I did it because I love you all.

Mom said her remarks in a sarcastic tone. I knew she didn't mean it, but I was still going to enjoy this dinner. Dinner lasted another hour then I went home, Chris escorted me.

I had taken more time than I wanted to off from school. I needed the break though to discover who I was again. I had let life really get me down. Spending time with Omir took my troubles away. Losing him reminded me why I was so hard on myself.

Getting back into the swing of things after two years was hard. I sat down in my living room and grabbed a romance novel to keep me company tonight. For obvious reason, I found it hard to focus on it. I listened to how quiet my house was and missed the chaos at my parent's. I lived an hour away, but I didn't mind making the drive.

I decided I would get ready for bed when I looked at my phone notifications. Omir had sent me a text.

Omir: Hey I know it's kind of late, but I heard you were back in town from school...Hoping to see you some time while you were between semesters or did you already finish? I was just thinking of you and wanted to give you a ring. I hope this is still your number. If not disregard the text.

Me: It's still my number. Yes I only have 3 more semesters to go (another year). Taking almost 2 years off really has me dragging, but I'm adjusting. Thank you for inquiring. How did you know I was back?

Omir: Your mom..she saw me out with Nanii and asked if I had made him while you were suppose to be my woman. She also asked why I didn't let Amari have you.

Me: I'm sorry she was so mean to you. You know that I don't have feelings for Amari, so I hope you didn't let that get to you. How is Nanii?

Omir: He's gettting bigger everyday! You know I didn't let your mom get to me. I am reminded very often of how things ended between us, I am sorry. I was kinda hoping you would like to go out for lunch one day or something.

Me: I'm going to pass...I just don't think I'm ready to date again

Omir: It doesn't have to be a date...just friends catching up

Me: Isn't that what we're doing now?

Omir: I understand your hesitancy. You don't owe me anything. In fact, I'm the one who should be at your mercy. Amryl I'm so sorry for all that happened two years ago. I still love you

Me: Nanii had to get here. Circumstances surrounding his conception were bad timing, but nonetheless, he is your blessing! I'm sorry you have to be reminded of this so often. I hope I'm not contributing to the reminder. I'm glad we got to still be friends even after we parted ways.

Omir: Me too. You still staying 10 mins away? I'd love to come by when you're free

Me: I am, but again I don't want to give you the wrong idea about us.

Omir: I understand, again I'm sorry

Me: Goodnight/morning

Omir: Night-morning

I sat there thinking about how she kept telling me nicely that she didn't want to see me. How could I think anything else would be her reply? It had been two years and she still was hurting I could tell. I didn't mean for things to happen the way they did. Yana was before us, but I thought we were over when I pursued Amryl. Her telling me she was pregnant ruined everything, but I love my son. Nanii was everything I needed and more. I was hoping that one day, she'd fully forgive me and give me another chance. My luck wasn't looking too good, but I still hoped.

_

Amryl

A year later, I was heading across med school graduation's stage. My daddy could be seen smiling from ear to ear in the front row. He was so proud of me, but I was really proud of myself. I was 21 1/2 years old, walking across the stage for the final time, I'd hoped. My parents and brothers were in attendance. I didn't have any plans after graduation, I was glad to be done.

Two months later I passed the medical examination exam. I was officially Dr Amryl Shartee Federie. I loved the new credentials. I worked for Mercy Medical as a cardiologist. I also did work as an OBGYN and minor surgeries. They were separate specialties I was fond of. Everyone respected me being so young and a doctor. I quickly became a pillar of the community and the new face of medicine for the future.

I was headed to New York for an exhibition seminar to gain clinical knowledge on a new procedure that would be implemented in the coming years. I was excited to learn new things. I packed my bags two days early and headed to the airport with Chris. He carried my luggage for me all the way to boarding. He was so nice. I had told him to take the week off, he didn't.

When we arrived in New York I was getting out of a taxi, when I dropped all of my notebook files. I grunted and watched as a stranger picked up my things with me. When he turned around to give me my things, I noticed his face was familiar. "Omir?"

Omir: Hey! It's so good to see you.

Me: Good to see you too.

Omir: I will let you go, but I hope I'll see you later on

Me: We'll see.

He left me just as quick as he appeared to help. I went to my meeting and stayed in New York the rest of the week. I was busied with memos and private meetings, but I enjoyed my time there.

I was out one day just exploring, Chris was blended well into the crowd. We had designed a Bluetooth mechanism that allowed us to speak to each other covertly. It was a communication device placed behind the ear, small in size. It blended well into your skin, so unless you knew it was there you couldn't tell.

I stopped at a city truck to get ice cream, it had become my favorite. I got my favorite, drumstick with nuts. It was the best tasting ice cream to me. I started to walk around again when I ran into someone as I took a bite off my waffle cone. "Excuse me" I said apologetically.

Omir: Hey! It's okay. You're still here?

Me: Yes I am, I was just out exploring a little. Why are you here in New York? Business with Amari?

Omir: Actually I'm here working a party tonight. If you're not busy you should come.

Me: I would have to check my schedule, what's the attire?

Omir: Club wear...But you're always dressed to perfection. Even now, you look amazing. You still smell like heaven.

I wanted to hug her so bad, but I didn't want to overstep my boundaries.

Me: That doesn't sound like my type of scene, don't be mad if I pass okay

Omir: I'm not..I still wanted to invite you. So where's your bodyguard, it's not like you to be out here in the open "unarmed"

Me: He's present, he's doing a great job blending in if you don't recognize him

Omir: Yeah he is. I hope you change your mind. It's my birthday and you would make it all better

Me: Oh crap that's right! Happy Birthday! I hope you enjoy it even though you're working. How's Nanii doing?

Omir: He's well. The joy of my life. My reason for continuing to live out my aspirations

Me: That's awesome. I have to go, but again I hope you have a wonderful time tonight

I hugged him and walked off. He kissed me lightly on my cheek. He smelled amazing and I felt myself tearing up, so I created a reason to leave. On my way back to my hotel, I ran into Amari who also was here in New York. I'm guessing for Omir's birthday.

Amari: Hey baby sister

Me: Hey. I just saw Omir a little while ago.

Amari: Oh word.. Did he invite you to the party tonight? We're celebrating his birthday. I know he would turn it all away if you were present.

Me: I actually told him I could not attend. It's not my scene.

Amari: I know things ended crazy between you two. I also can look at you and tell you feel the way he does, you still love each other. Whatever I got to do to get you there say it and it's done. Be my surprise for him tonight Amryl, please?

Me: Amari, I don't know-

Amari: Tell me you don't still love him and I'll walk away, no feelings lost.

Me: I'd be lying if I said that

Amari: Then step out of your comfort zone and come to this party tonight. You can be my gift to him as I was unsure what to get him

Me: Um..okay I'll come. What time is the party? I'll have to go find me something to wear

Amari: Whatever it cost, I will give it back to you. It's comfy casual. He thinks he working a party, it's actually a surprise party. You'll be the perfect surprise. Oh and we doing karaoke too, so pick your favorite song and let me know by 5 so I can pull up the words. The party starts at 7. Thank you so much for making my brother happy.

Me: Glad I could help and I don't know about karaoke, but I like your song, Two Sided.

Amari: Good pick! See you tonight

Me: See you

As I walked off, I must have looked worried because Chris appeared out of no where, it seems, next to me. "You okay" he said. I told him yes and headed to find myself a dress for this party. Once I found what I wanted to wear, I went and bought shoes as well. I grabbed a quick bite to eat and noticed it was getting closer to time for the party.

I got ready around 6 and headed down the elevator when my phone rang. Omir was calling and it made me nervous, so I didn't answer as I was lost in my thoughts. He left a voicemail and I tapped on it to play it.

Hey it's me, Aryan or Omir as you call me. I was hoping to get you on the phone and change your mind about you coming to the party tonight. It was good seeing you out. You would make my birthday for me if I could just have a little of your time. I'm sorry about everything and I know you may still feel hurt about things. I know you're here on business and I'm trying to drag you into partying. I just want your company. I hope you call me back. The party starts at 7, it's in Madison Square Garden. Follow the signs to the purple heart. Peace.

I listened to the voicemail and felt like I was punishing him. I didn't intend to, but ignoring him gave me time to get myself together. Earlier in the day I had phoned Sel and the girls to see if they could fly out tonight. Within the hour, they were on a plane to New York. They had got in about 5 ish and headed to me, dressing on the way.

I got down to the lobby and they were waiting on me.

Sel: You look amazing! He's going to be gushing over you all night

Apryl: Girl you might lose your virginity tonight in that dress

Nina: For once, I'm with Apryl he going to take you down tonight girl. You look FAB!

Rena: Speechless

Lena: You left him no air to breath honey!

Ray: Well least he'll die a happy man!

Me: Ladies knock it off! Let's go I want to get there and hopefully talk Amari out of this karaoke

We headed to the location and when we arrived it was packed! Luckily, Amari VIP'd us and we were able to cut through the line. I was lead back to a dressing room where Amari joined us a short time later.

Amari: I'm glad you could come and very glad you brought your friends. You ladies look nice

Me: No problem, he left me a voicemail and I didn't want to ruin your surprise so I kept him waiting on my return phone call.

Amari: You will perform last as we want him to be surprised. After you sing, we'll bring out the cake. I hope you'll join us in the VIP section to celebrate privately

Me: I want to change my song if it's okay. A song I wrote years ago

I wasn't into writing music. I mainly wrote poems, but this specific poem formed a melody in my head and I turned it into a song. It came about during my time with Omir and I thought he would like it. He'd been so open with his feelings for me over the years and I finally wanted to be open with him about mine.

The girls thanked Amari and wished me luck. They left me in the dressing room. I was joined a few minutes later by his mom, Cali.

Cali: I know I'm the last person you expected to see tonight. My son loves you an despite me telling him to move on, he won't. I think you should've gave Amari a chance, but he too won't do what I asked. So tonight, you better sing the song you chose like your life depends on it because my son has been moping every since you two parted ways. He pretends he's okay, but we see how crushed he is

Me: Mrs Grand I would never intentionally hurt Omir. I-

Cali: Sing Two Sided with all your emotions. It wasn't hard to figure out that Amari was talking about you. I'll be d**ned if you leave them both heartbroken tonight

Me: I think you should leave.

Chris heard me say this and joined us in the room. Mrs. Grand turned seeing him enter and left. Chris stayed with me until the announcer came back to get me for the stage.

I thought I was going to be nervous, but I wasn't. I felt confident and I wanted to leave my feelings all on the floor tonight. I didn't care what Cali thought! I loved Omir. I never wanted him to feel like I was punishing him for our breakup. I hoped after this song, he would feel better.

I had given Chris the melody I recorded with a producer on one of my trips to see Amari about his child support case. He got it to Amari. At the time I did it for fun. I would later find the words to go with the melody and went back to record the whole song.

As I stepped on the stage the lights were dimmed. You could not see anything. The music started and the lights above the VIP section were back on. I could see Omir looking distractedly into his phone. I started to sing the words I now had in my memory and I saw him look up at the stage. A few seconds later he was back in his phone. The lights came on one by one as the song went on and he wasn't looking at the stage. I sang

For the longest I've hidden my feelings If only you knew what I was dealing with on the inside you could see what you do to me and hopefully find your way back to the love we used to share It's not like anyone else makes me feel the way you do Been through the most, but thinking of you gives me new reasons to see things through....Omir happy birthday and I love you too

At the last words I saw him look up and the lights came back on as everyone stood to give me a standing ovation and scream. His eyes and mine connected. I smiled and mouthed happy birthday again. I walked off the stage and made my way to the VIP section.

Omir

I heard a voice on stage that was amazing. I'm not going to lie I was looking desperately at my phone hoping she would call me back and give me a reason to leave this party. Amari had planned a surprise party for me and I was shocked and thankful. My mind was still on seeing her earlier. I was dressed in all white with a black tie. I had finally grew my dreads out, so I had them pulled into a ponytail. I let my suspendors hang down.

The words to the song she was singing kinda felt like they were about Amryl and I, but I was ready to end the night so I could try to phone her again. I hoped she would answer. The song went on getting more and more personal. I was busy skimming my phone when I heard the last words "Omir happy birthday and I love you too." I looked up to see her on stage, shocked. She looked amazing.

She wore an all white dress with silver heels. The dress fit in all the right places. I could tell she had been working out and toning. She wore the necklace I gave her for her birthday years ago. She had on a bracelet that complemented her heels. Her hair was down and pinned back out of her face. Our eyes connected and she mouthed Happy Birthday to me.

I was excited. I hoped she planned to stay for the celebration as she walked off the stage. They were bringing the cake out and I didn't see her anywhere. I tried to put on my best face, but I was sad all over again. Did she really just say she loves me too and then leave?