When she reached her room, she immediately threw herself face down on her bed and groaned.
“Okay, I’m going to give you your momentary breakdown, you deserve it. I’d probably feel the same way if I had to face that group out there.” MacKenzie felt the depression beside her as Aviva took a seat. “Then you are going to pull yourself together, do you hear me?”
MacKenzie was shocked at the way Aviva spoke to her, she hadn’t been expecting it. “Vee!?”
“I mean it. You have ten minutes to cry, scream or do whatever you need to. Then you better find the old MacKenzie and make sure she is completely present when we go back downstairs.”
“What are you talking about, what old, MacKenzie?” She honestly didn’t know what her friend was talking about.
“Girl, are you kidding me?” The shocked look on Aviva’s face at her question further threw her. “You are one of the strongest women I know. That’s what I’m talking about.”
“Appearances can be deceiving, Vee. Do you know what?” At the shake of her friend’s head, MacKenzie continued. “I’m sick and tired of being strong. I’m sick and tired of everyone thinking I can face any and everything that gets tossed my way. I don’t deserve the way that man has treated me. I don’t deserve the way men have treated me all my life!”
“What men, MacKenzie? It sounds like you’re talking about more than just Carlos.”
If she were able, she would retract the words, but it was too late. “Well, you said I could have my moment. That was it. All you need to do now is ignore everything I just said and help me find something to wear.”
MacKenzie hoped Aviva would hold true to form and not press her for answers she wasn’t ready to give. Maybe she would never be ready to give the answers she sought. The secret she had buried deep within her, only two people knew about, and she intended to keep it that way. Thinking about that time so long ago was way too painful.
“Okay, it’s your story to tell, so I won’t press you. If you ever need someone to talk to, please know I’ll always be here.”
“Thanks,” the smile she directed at Aviva was the best she could do. MacKenzie realized it wasn’t fooling her oldest friend, but she couldn’t bring herself to voice what was the most humiliating and heart-breaking time of her life. “Let’s do this.”
“You know,” Aviva took MacKenzie’s hand and stopped her from sliding off the bed. “I’m not about to ask you if this engagement is real.” When MacKenzie attempted to interrupt, Aviva shook her head to dissuade her. “I don’t care. All I’m going to say is that Jake is a good man. In fact, he is one of the best men I know. I see the ring he’s placed on your finger. Hold on to him, girl. Hold on tight. If you can do that, you will never regret it.”
MacKenzie felt an overwhelming need to confess all, but Aviva wasn’t listening. She had already dropped her hand and was heading for the closet; a steady stream of chatter about clothing filling the air.
Chapter 23
“Are you ready, MacKenzie?” Jake asked.
“Let’s get this over with,” MacKenzie replied, taking a deep breath.
Jake felt his temper rise as he witnessed her trepidation. He knew he had to keep calm. The flashing bulbs and questions were going to be hard on her. If he lost his cool, there was no telling what he would do. At that moment, he was glad his father was also coming along to show his support which lightened his mood.
“What are you smiling about?”
“I was just thinking that it’s a good thing my father’s coming along, because if this gets out of control, I’m going to have my hands full talking my brothers down.
MacKenzie gave Jake a serious look. “Make sure that doesn’t happen, Jacob.”
“Don’t worry, I have their word they will be on their best behavior.”
“Why doesn’t that promise fill me with confidence?”
“Because you’re a smart woman, that’s why. If you’re ready, let’s do this.”
At her nod, Jake extended his hand towards her. That she so readily took it surprised him. The least he had expected was a disdainful look followed by minutes of persuasion on his part.
Jake liked that she’d complied without hesitation. Wanting to believe her feelings were changing towards him, Jake said nothing.
It was a lovely day. The sun was shining, and the trees that lined the driveway stretched a cooling, green leaved canopy that sheltered them from the rays of the sun.
When they reached the gate, the members of his family who were accompanying them were at hand. With a nod in Josh’s direction, he indicated their readiness to proceed.
The moment the gate opened, bulbs began popping and flashing. Coupled with the blinding beam of the sun, Jake had to squint as he moved forward. Placing a protective arm around MacKenzie, he took a few more steps forward and came to a halt.