The Widow's Helper

24

As the wedding week approached, everyone busied themselves ensuring all preparations went smoothly. Amidst the festivities, Chantelle and her family planned to stay at a hotel on Friday, while my pastor and other congregation members were set to arrive on the day of the wedding. Anele and the kids spent time in King Williams Town with his side of the family.

Despite not seeing Anele for two weeks, things remained well between us. Oddly enough, the decision to not meet during this time seemed to work for both of us. I still connected with the kids, but attempting to video call Anele became a challenge. Each time I called, his mother answered, often with Anele complaining in the background, making the situation both amusing and frustrating.

As more people flooded into my house from all corners, relatives from both sides of my family, the excitement and chaos of wedding preparations intensified. The ceremony was scheduled in my old church, and the reception was planned in a large tent on my street. The surrounding roads were closed, turning the neighborhood into a bustling hub of wedding festivities.

Like any other wedding, there were moments of cold feet and nerve-wracking issues. Panic set in when it seemed the weather might turn windy. I found myself in tears in my room upon hearing that the tent was swaying, causing complications for the decorators.

Amidst the chaos, the tantalizing aroma from the backyard drew me. The women from my neighborhood were busy cooking, catering for the event. I opened the window, inquiring if I could have some, and they chuckled, warning that indulging might mean dealing with the consequences of nervousness. Indeed, I was a nervous wreck, but I needed a distraction.

Attempting to ease my nerves, I went to get ice cream, only to be intercepted by Aunt Aubrey. She ushered me into my room and initiated a calming exercise. Initially bored and perplexed, I soon felt the soothing effects as my nerves began to settle.

With the makeup artist's skilled hands and a touch of creativity, my makeup came to life. The makeup guys then turned their attention to my hair – a natural hair bun showcasing my voluminous afro, dyed in a luscious plum color. As they meticulously shaped my baby hair with styling gel, creating intricate patterns, the transformation was complete.

The reflection in the mirror revealed a stunning bride, adorned with vibrant colors and a radiant glow. The beauty team's efforts were met with gushing compliments, affirming that I was ready to step into the spotlight on this momentous day.

As everything fell into place, my family had mostly departed, leaving me, my siblings, and Aunt Aubrey. Together, we shared a prayer, taking a moment to reflect on the significance of the day. When the time came to leave, my siblings helped me with my dress, taking on the roles traditionally designated to bridesmaids and a maid of honor, although I had none.

As we approached the church, our car had to wait at a distance. Anele's car was running late, and the anticipation built as he needed to arrive before me. The air was charged with excitement and nervous energy, setting the stage for the beginning of a new chapter in our lives.

As the final moments before the ceremony unfolded, the collective focus remained on ensuring my makeup was impeccable. Internally, anxiety crept in, fueled by thoughts of Anele potentially reconsidering the decision to marry a younger woman or fearing family dynamics. The what-ifs swirled in my mind, triggering an internal struggle.

Unathi, sensing my distant thoughts, made a lighthearted remark in the limo, saying, "He is coming because if he doesn't, then I'll be in jail tomorrow for murder." Laughter ensued, momentarily breaking the tension. Unathi, taking my hands, reassured me, "He would not have gone through all of this just to leave." She wiped away a tear and emphasized, "No, no, no tears. The only tears we want to witness will be when you cry because of his speech."

A sudden realization struck me – I had forgotten the vows I had written. Panic set in, and as the car passed us on its way to the church gates, I voiced my concern. "Guys, the vows, oh no!" I started panicking. Aunt Aubrey stepped in with calming advice, urging us to call and check if anything was coming from the house.

"Don't go there with fear but trust in what the Holy Spirit will help you say," Aunt Aubrey reassured, providing a steadying presence amid the mounting nervousness.

With a meaningful gesture, Aunt Aubrey adorned my bun with a blue butterfly hairpin before delicately pulling down the veil. Her words held a profound sentiment, "That was meant for my daughter, and God knows I found a daughter in you. May He keep you happy and in peace." A tear escaped, but it was accompanied by a genuine smile. I nodded, overwhelmed by the warmth of her sentiments.

As Aunt Aubrey walked me down the aisle, I realized that in choosing her, I opted for more than a friend; she was the parent I needed. The connection we shared transcended the conventional roles, and her presence became a comforting anchor on this pivotal journey.

Amidst the cheers and standing ovations, my attention was fixated on the man in front of me, looking dapper in a creamish tuxedo. His anticipation was palpable, and I couldn't wait for him to see me under that veil. A smile played on my lips as I observed him shifting, clearly unable to contain his excitement.

When we finally stood in front of the reverend, Aunt Aubrey gracefully left my side. The reverend conducted the ceremony, initiating the wedding, bestowing the marriage blessing, and overseeing the exchange of rings. The moment arrived for the vows, and even though I couldn't recall my words, Anele's reassuring gaze indicated that I was expressing the right sentiments. Tears welled up as I listened to his vows, and soon, I became Mrs. Makinana, Anele's wife. Our first kiss as a married couple was met with the joyful cheers of the gathered crowd, marking the beginning of a new chapter in our lives.

After the heartfelt ceremony, we embraced family members before sharing a limo ride to Sterling Park for a memorable photo shoot. This location held special significance, as it was where everything began—the neighborhood that warmly welcomed me, the tall trees under which I often spent time with the kids. Nelisa's joy was evident as we captured precious moments through the lens.

Subsequently, they embarked on their own journey in a separate car, and we made our way to the reception venue. The celebration continued with speeches, starting with the best man, Anele's cousin, followed by heartfelt words from each of my sisters. The in-laws, Mr. and Mrs. Makinana senior, Aunt Aubrey, and my uncle all contributed to the chorus of love and well-wishes.

Surprisingly, a local gospel singer took the stage, adding an unexpected touch of celebrity to the festivities. The evening unfolded with a delightful meal, and as the night progressed, we danced to the rhythm of joy. Anele took me away from my uncle for our special dance, marking yet another beautiful moment in our celebration as husband and wife.

The music played, and in that moment, surrounded by family and friends, I felt an overwhelming sense of joy and love. Anele held me close, and we swayed to the music, cherishing the start of our journey together.

As the night unfolded, laughter and joy filled the air. The celebration continued with more dancing, heartfelt toasts, and moments of pure happiness. The worries that had plagued me earlier were now replaced with the warmth of shared smiles and the electric energy of the celebration.

When it was time for the traditional bouquet toss, I threw it playfully, watching as it sailed through the air. Cheers erupted as it landed in the hands of a single lady, and the tradition carried on.

The night concluded with a beautiful cake-cutting ceremony, symbolizing the sweetness of our union. Anele and I shared the first slice, sealing the night with yet another tender moment.

As the celebration neared its end, we bid farewell to our loved ones. The day had been a whirlwind of emotions, from nervous anticipation to overwhelming joy. Walking away from the venue hand in hand with Anele, I couldn't help but reflect on the incredible journey that led us to this moment—the vows, the dances, the shared laughter, and the beginning of a new chapter as Mr. and Mrs. Makinana.