The City Manager, Jeff, takes a huge bite. “Umm, umm, umm. Kendra, make sure we book far in advance. I want business meetings, the next office party, and every other gathering to be here. This was magnificent.”

After the plates are cleared from the table, the restaurant erupts in applause, and I watch the last of Vic’s nerves melt away. The dinner guests settle into the soft ambiance of smooth jazz and easy conversation.

Vic and I move through the crowd together, mixing and mingling, but I never stray too far. Even when I step away to give him his moment, he refuses to let me drift too far, for too long. Whenever there’s the slightest distance between us, he finds me, leans in close, and whispers in my ear.

“I’ve told you this before, but I want you to hear it again. You’re a part of my success. You’re my calm, my anchor, my blessing. Everything I’ve done this year means nothing without you.”

My heart stumbles, and my grip tightens on his hand. God, I love this man.

While Vic hypes me up to his colleagues, Vicky makes her way over, her eyes full of something I can’t quite place. Before I can speak, she pulls me into a hug and holds me as close as she can.

“Thank you,” she says, her voice thick with emotion. “For everything you’ve done for my son and my granddaughters. For bringing this family back to life. I always knew you would be the one to do it.”

“Y’all sure do give me a lot of credit,” I say, letting out a soft laugh. “But you were the one who gave me a chance. I wouldn’t be standing here if it weren’t for you. You’re the real backbone of this family, Vicky.”

This time, I pull her in close and absorb all she continues to offer. This woman is a blessing. The strength in her stance, the kindness in her eyes, the way she carries so much love despite all the pain she’s endured, I’m in awe of her resilience, her grace.

She cups my cheek, her touch warm. “I love you, sweetheart.”

My throat tightens. “I love you too.”

The moment lingers between us, heavy with meaning, but we’re interrupted when Vic clears his throat and pulls the room’s attention to him.

“I have a special announcement to make.” He says.

Conversations drop to a murmur as people turn toward him. He lets the silence stretch for a moment before speaking.