Love Arranged by Fate

CHAPTER4

It was a special day when Susan and Kelvin arrived at the house. It felt as if the heavens were about to fall to the ground. Susan hadn’t bothered to tell her mother anything beforehand because she believed that by now, her mother must have already known what was going on.

"You are welcome home, my daughter," Mrs. Laura said, excitement evident in her voice. She was trying hard to control her excitement so that it didn’t get out of hand. "But who is this you’ve brought home with you this time around?" her mother asked, gesturing toward Kelvin.

"He’s my friend, the one I told you about on the phone before now," Susan replied. "Kelvin, this is my mom, Mrs. Laura, and my sweet daddy, Mr. Jackson," Susan introduced her parents.

Kelvin stood up quietly, acting like a responsible young man, and greeted them. "Greetings, ma. Greetings, sir."

"You are welcome to this house. Feel free," Mr. Jackson responded warmly, as Kelvin turned to greet Mrs. Laura as well. Susan wanted to embrace him warmly but decided it might be too early for that.

Just then, Mr. Jackson, curious about this young man, asked, "So, young man, what’s your nomenclature again?"

"Kelvin, sir."

"Kelvin," Mr. Jackson began. "Before a plane takes off, the pilot already knows which country he’s flying to and when to land. So, I’d like you to tell me your reason for leaving school and coming here, or is there anything we need to know?" Mr. Jackson asked, waiting patiently for Kelvin’s reply.

"Sir, my reason for coming all the way from school down here is that I’ve found a very precious flower, and I’ve decided to come and pluck it right from the root," Kelvin said, nervously glancing at Mr. Jackson. "Mr. Jackson, I believe you already understand my point."

Mr. Jackson, although he knew what Kelvin was trying to say, replied, "No, I don’t, because the last time I checked, there are no flowers here. So, you need to explain yourself better." Even though he understood exactly what Kelvin meant, he wanted to be sure it was in line with what Susan had shared.

Kelvin, gathering his courage, said, "Okay, sir. I’m trying to say that your daughter here is my missing rib, and I can’t do without her by my side. Sir, I really do love her, and I have officially come to let you know, so we can become a good family if only you grant us permission by accepting me."

At this point, Susan stood there in shock, watching Kelvin pour out his heart. This guy must have something serious in mind, she thought. I can’t believe this is happening! Could it be that my dream is coming true? She wished she could express what was on her mind but remained silent, talking to herself instead.

Mr. Jackson, impressed by Kelvin’s honesty, replied, "I understand you now, but it’s not my place to give that permission. I need to hear from my princess. So, Susan, what do you have to say?" he asked, turning to his daughter.

"Daddy, the truth is, I love him, and I would love to stay by his side, just as he has said," Susan responded, her voice steady with confidence.

"If you say so," Mr. Jackson smiled, looking at his wife, Mrs. Laura, who echoed in agreement, "Then you have our blessing."

"When is the date for the wedding?" Mrs. Laura asked, excitement brimming in her voice.

"Mommy, we will get back to you. We need to think of a suitable date first," Susan replied.

Mrs. Laura laughed, "I can’t wait anymore!"

As the day went on, Kelvin found himself growing increasingly nervous. His mind was racing with thoughts about how to make sure everything worked out between him and Susan. I hope this isn’t just a plan that falls apart, he thought. I want it to be real for both of us. I wish she could feel what I’m feeling for her.

He remembered something his lecturer once told him: "There’s no harm in trying." With that thought, he resolved to let Susan know his full intentions and feelings. I’ll make sure I confront her to let her know my mind, he encouraged himself.

Meanwhile, Susan was becoming increasingly uncomfortable. She wasn’t sure if it was right to let Kelvin know she had feelings for him. I wish I could talk to him and get these feelings off my chest, she thought. I pray everything works out for the best.

At 2 p.m., over at the campus, Jeff was admiring Deborah from a distance. She looked like an angel on earth, and Jeff knew this was the perfect opportunity to let her know how he felt. He couldn’t wait any longer. This is my chance, he thought as he walked over to her.

When he reached her, he greeted her nervously, "Hi."

"Hi," Deborah responded.

"Since Kelvin and Susan have traveled, do you think we can find a quiet place to talk better?" Jeff asked, his heart pounding.

"Talk better? But we’re already talking," Deborah said, slightly confused.

"No, I mean there’s something I really want to tell you," Jeff clarified.

"Okay, if you insist," Deborah replied, smiling. "Let’s go over to the canteen where we can be comfortable."

When they finally reached the canteen, they sat down facing each other. Instantly, Deborah could sense that Jeff had something important to say.

"Jeff," she said, noticing his nervousness, "whatever it is, just go straight to the point."

Hearing this, Jeff felt a wave of relief wash over him. This is my chance, he thought. "I don’t know how this may sound to you, but the truth is, I’ve already fallen for you. I really want you to be my girlfriend, and I want to be your man."

Before he could even finish his words, Deborah smiled warmly. She had already developed feelings for him as well. Unable to contain themselves, they shared a kiss, their emotions overflowing.

It was as if they didn’t want the moment to end. Jeff whispered, "I love you, baby."

"I love you more," Deborah replied, her voice soft, as if the words were struggling to come out, overwhelmed by emotion.

"I’m so happy I’m your man now," Jeff said, smiling. "I promise to make you happy for the rest of my life. I love you so much."

"I love you too," Deborah replied, feeling a deep sense of joy.

"I just pray that things work out for my friend Kelvin over there, too," Jeff added thoughtfully.

"What do you mean by that, babe?" Deborah asked, curious.

"I’ll let you know when we get back to the house," Jeff replied with a grin.

"Let’s start heading back now. I’m curious, and my ears are itching to hear the rest of the story," Deborah said playfully.

Jeff laughed as they held hands and started walking toward his car, both of them feeling more connected than ever.

Jeff and Deborah returned to the home feeling calm and excited. They walked gently with clasped hands, savoring the moment. Deborah continued looking at Jeff, her heart full of delight, but she was still wondering about what he meant about Kelvin and Susan.

She softly squeezed his hand and murmured, "Are you really going to keep me waiting?"

Jeff laughed, shaking his head. No, I wouldn't hurt you. Do not worry."

When they approached Jeff's vehicle, he opened the door for her and sat them down before starting the engine and facing her.

"So, about what I said earlier," Jeff continued, looking at Deborah. Kelvin worries about Susan's future. He’s told me numerous times that he’s nervous he wants things to go well, but he’s concerned Susan may not feel the same way he does."

Deborah lifted an eyebrow, astonished. "Wait, you mean Kelvin is doubting Susan’s feelings?"

"Not doubting exactly," Jeff said, moving in his seat. "But you know how males can be. He’s simply anxious about whether she’s as serious as he is. I encouraged him not to worry, but it’s been on his mind ever since they left for her parents' place."

Deborah sighed, pondering for a while. "That’s understandable. Susan has always been a bit reticent when it comes to expressing her sentiments. But from what I can gather, she’s very into Kelvin. I’ve never seen her this pleased before."

"I know, right?" Jeff agreed, smiling. "I told him the same thing, but he’s still concerned. He wants this to be genuine, to make sure it’s not simply a passing phase."

Deborah nodded attentively. "I understand it. I believe it’s something they’ll both have to manage together. But I have trust in Susan. She’s never taken relationships lightly. If she’s with Kelvin, it’s because she’s serious about him."

Jeff reached out, resting a hand on her knee. "Exactly. And now that we’ve become closer, I just hope everything works out for both of us. I believe it’s time Kelvin and Susan felt the same tranquility we’re beginning to feel."

Deborah smiled pleasantly. "I agree. Everything will work out in time."

As they drove into the driveway of the home, the sun was starting to set, creating a lovely orange light over the area. The mood was serene, and they both felt glad for the way the day had turned out.