Videos for this chapter:

'You' by Jesse Powell

'You & I' by Avant feat. Keke Wyatt

'I Like The Way (The Kissing Game) by Hi-Five

'This One's For Me and You' Johnny Gill feat. New Edition

'Happy' by Pharrell Williams

'Song of The Heart' by Prince

'Mercedes Boy' by Pebbles

Saturday, May 25th, 2024

Graeme's POV

I am a nervous wreck, and I have no clue why. I have come a long way in the last five years - married with a daughter, and my son on the way. I never pictured myself as a married man with kids before meeting Janiyah.

Janiyah and I are getting dressed in separate rooms. Our anniversary party will be almost like a wedding. Jacee will toss rose petals, then Janiyah will walk down the aisle. Our female guests are wearing red dresses, and the guys are wearing black suits.

I am standing in the middle of the dance floor, waiting for my girls. I wish the music would start playing so I can stop shaking my right leg. And, there it is. Everyone stood up as the music began to play.

Janiyah and Jacee are walking into our wedding song. And, here comes my baby girl in the most adorable dress ever.

Jacee had the biggest smile on her face as she walked towards me, tossing her rose petals. I picked Jacee up and kissed her on each cheek. She started giggling.

Steven is escorting Janiyah down the aisle. As soon as I saw her, I couldn't help but cry. She looks just as beautiful as she did on our wedding day.

"Why are you crying, daddy?" Jacee asked me.

"Because this reminds me of our wedding day. Mama was just as beautiful then as she is today."

After Steven walked Janiyah to the center of the dance floor, she took my left hand, and the three of us danced to the song. She had tears in her eyes.

"You look pretty, Mama. Don't cry, Mama."

"Jacee, babe, you are pretty too. Mama can't help it, Cuddles. Today is a special occasion for us as a family."

Everyone began applauding as the song ended.

"Before we take our seats, I have one more dance. Jacee, sweetheart, go have a seat with Papa."

Jacee ran over to my dad, then the song I chose for us began playing.

"Are you okay, Janiyah?"

"I'm fine. Little Graeme is behaving so far. We are hungry. Everything turned out great. One more month to go, and he will be here. This place looks amazing! And, my guys made it with their families - Niko, Griffin, Cris, and Shane. I can't stop crying."

Janiyah rested her head on my chest as we danced to the song. We stayed silent for the rest of the song.

As the song ended, Janiyah and I walked to our seats while our guests thunderously applauded for us. Jacee ran over, and I sat her in my lap. Waiters began bringing our guests their entrees. We made sure for Bliss and Sophia that there were no seafood dishes and strawberry dishes. Baby Shane has a peanut allergy, so we made sure everything was safe for him too. My father then handed me a microphone.

"Who knew that June of 2018 would lead to me eventually meeting the love of my life and mother of my children? As everyone here knows, Janiyah and I didn't have a pleasant first meeting. But that went away for me quickly. When I found out Damion was her brother, I practically begged him to help me get with her. There was a party that Damion had, and the moment I saw Janiyah in her dress, I knew she was the woman I wanted."

"The moment I saw that Graeme was friends with Damion, I made sure to avoid him at the party. At that time, I was busy trying to pursue a twerp that was busy trying to steal money from me. The twit even tried to rob my house. After a few conversations, Graeme and I began to be cordial with each other. During the robbery attempt, thankfully, Graeme and Damion made it to my house to save me. That was the day I realized I had feelings for him."

"Our relationship bloomed fast after that day. The next special moment in our relationship was Saturday, February 16th, 2019. Janiyah dropped to one knee and proposed."

"I was nervous and afraid Graeme would turn me down because I proposed. He told me I beat him to it. Every girl wants their boyfriend to propose. I thought it would be sweet to flip that switch and be the girlfriend to propose to her boyfriend."

"At the time, we had to deal with an issue, so we were going to delay our wedding. But, we decided, 'Why wait for our moment to come?' So, Saturday, May 18th, 2019, was our wedding day."

"The next special moment was Summer of 2019. Well, two special moments happened that Summer. The first moment was Graeme and I starring in our first movie together. I was a nervous wreck, but Graeme, Damion, Lou, and the cast of the movie made me feel comfortable through the filming of it."

"The next moment happened because of the scenes we filmed for the movie. Janiyah passed out on the set, and we rushed her to the hospital. As I entered her room, Janiyah had the biggest grin on her face as she handed me a photograph. Once I saw it was a sonogram of our baby, I passed out."

"He sure did. On October 5th, our family held a gender reveal party, and we found out our first child was a girl, Jacee. We had the movie premiere to end 2019. March of 2020, Jacee made her debut. Even when I told Graeme about Junior, he passed out."

Everyone chuckled. "Hey, I can't help it. Other than being married, being a father is one of the most rewarding experiences. Everyone, please enjoy the food, dancing, and great company. Janiyah, Jacee, and I appreciate everyone supporting us for this special day."

"We really do. We have the most amazing family ever. I love you all so much. Graeme Junior does as well because he kicked me to mention his name. Jacee, babe, you want to say something?"

I whispered in her ear. Jacee then said, "Tank you."

'While everyone continues enjoying the food, Janiyah's best guy friends would like to say a few words." I walked over to Shane with the mic.

Shane's POV

"Janiyah and I have been friends since meeting at a business conference in May of 2014. Janiyah was the first woman and youngest attendee at the conference. Some of the businessmen at the conference gave her grief, but she sure did give it right back to them."

"I sure did put them in their place. This one guy kept bothering me for most of the conference until Shane came over and intervened because I was about to punch the guy in his face."

"Needless to say, Janiyah and I walked onto the stage at the conference."

"Shane took that microphone and gave everyone in attendance an earful. I can't repeat what he said. After that, I thought of Shane as a protective brother. To know he had my back was special. We instantly bonded. Shane's company was the first big company that I handled. After that, my company took off. Our tenth friend anniversary was at the beginning of this month. I was so happy for him when he told me he and Bliss were married in August of 2020. And, of course, in April of 2021, Graeme and I were a part of their special day."

"I was equally happy for you and Graeme. Now, we both are happily married with kids. Congratulations, Graeme and Janiyah, on your anniversary. May you have many more happy days and years ahead."

"Thank you so much, Shane. Now, come over here and hug me." I carried little Shane with me because he loves hanging out with Graeme. Shane wiggled out of my arms and ran to Graeme. I hugged Janiyah and shook Graeme's hand.

"Niko is up next." I walked over to his seat and handed him the mic.

Niko's POV

"My first encounter with Janiyah was the total opposite. We first met in 2016, and also at a business conference. I don't remember my exact words, but let's just say I was a total jerk. And, she let me have it. Shane sat back and watched it too."

"I sure did. And, that was on the first day. On the second day of the conference, after the morning session, Niko apologized to me. Over time, Niko and I become close friends too. He also put his numerous companies in my hands. Our tenth friend anniversary is in two years."

"Shane and I chatted on the first night. He told me what Janiyah went through in 2014. I felt horrible about my actions and apologized. Janiyah is one of the most trustworthy people I know. She is not only my friend, but Janiyah is also my sis and, I will always have her back whenever she needs me. Congratulations, Janiyah and Graeme, on your anniversary."

Of course, I went to hug my sis.

"Thank you so much for your support, Niko. Niko is just as protective of me as Shane. Just like with Shane, I was ecstatic about Niko getting married too. I tell the guys all the time that I am happy about not be the only girl in our group anymore. Niko, Shane, Griffin, and Cris have the perfect women for them. I love them all."

"Griffin is up next."

Griffin's POV

As Niko walked back with Jacee in his arms to his seat, he handed me the mic.

"Cris and I met Janiyah 2016 as well, but at a different conference. I'll let him tell you what happened. I overheard several men in attendance complaining about women at the conference. Instantly, I became irritated at what they were saying. So, I did the same thing as Shane - walked on the stage and gave every egotistical male in attendance a piece of my mind."

"Again, I can't repeat what Griffin said, but wow. He defended every businesswoman not only at that conference but also everywhere. There was a gala held during the evening, and I found Griffin and thanked him. He told me why he did it and pointed out several gentlemen who complained. We became friends from that conference."

"Those guys had no business complaining. Whether you are male or female, owning a business is tough. Janiyah earned the right to be at whatever conference she wanted to be. Congratulations on your anniversary, Janiyah and Graeme."

"Thank you, Griffin. When Griffin told me he was dating and then getting married, I was shocked when he told me who he was marrying. Sophia, I still remember the times Griffin whined on the phone to me about you. But, you both blossomed into a beautiful couple, and I love both of you."

After hugging Janiyah and shaking Graeme's hand, I gave Cris the mic.

Cris' POV

"Needless to say, I was one of the stupid ones who opened their mouth. My mother gave me an earful when I called her. And, Janiyah gave me an earful at the gala. Janiyah told me, "We can be enemies, or we can be friends. It's your choice."

"Hey, I can't help it if I have a sharp tongue."

"Ever since Janiyah was a child, she had a sass mouth," Janiyah's dad says, causing everyone to laugh."

"Thanks, dad. I learned from you and mom. By the end of the conference, Cris invited me to lunch, and we talked about our businesses. He showed me pictures of Dia and Rocco, who I call my niece and nephew. Like Niko, Shane, and Griffin, Cris and I became friends. The day Cris told me he found his future wife, I cried tears of joy. The first time I met Kami, we instantly bonded. Kami is comical. Bliss is too. I love being surrounded by Bliss, Kami, Tati, and Sophia. And our newest editions to our group, Layla and Marco. I love you both too. When Cris and Marco get together, they are hilarious."

"I am proud to be a part of an amazing group of friends who support each other both personally and on a business level. Congratulations, Janiyah, and Graeme on your anniversary. Kamea and I love both of you."

"Thank you, Cris. We love you too. I agree 100%. We are a part of the best group of friends anyone could have. I want to say thank you all so much for spending the day with me, Jacee, Graeme Jr., and Graeme Sr. Y'all are not just my friends, but my family. My family means the world to me. Graeme, Jacee, and I have gifts for everyone. While we are cutting our cake, the waiters will bring everyone their gift."

Shane came over to take Shane Jr back to sit with him. Jacee ran back over to us then we walked over to the cake.

"Mama, Hello Kitty is on the cake."

"It sure is, Jacee. And it is yours to keep after we cut the cake."

My mom handed me a knife. Jacee put her hand on mine, then Graeme put his hand on Jacee's hand. We then cut the cake. I gave Jacee the first piece. Then, I cut two more, one for me and one for Graeme. One of the waiters cut the cake for our guests.

The DJ began playing dance music as we walked back to our table to eat our cake. Look at little Shane doing the baby bounce. "Go, Junior! Go, Junior!"

Bliss and Pilar joined him on the dance floor. Shane filmed Junior, Bliss, and Pilar dancing. Shane and Bliss find out next week if they are approved to adopt Pilar. I hope it works out. Pilar is a little darling.

After finishing my cake, I walked around to talk with my guests. I sat down with Layla, Ryan, and the kids.

"Thank you, Layla and Ryan, for coming today. It means a lot to me."

"You're welcome, Janiyah. Thank you for having us. And, this is Dalton and Dakota's first trip out of Florida."

"May I hold one of the boys? And, which one?"

"This little one is Dakota." Layla handed me, Dakota.

"Hi, there, Dakota. You and your brother are adorable. Yes, you are. Guess what? When Graeme Jr is born, we are going to fly to Florida. Y'all going to have a playdate." He smiled at me. Jacee ran over to me.

"Jacee, say hi to Dakota. And give your Aunt Layla and Uncle Ryan a hug."

"Hi." While Jacee hugged them, Marco and Noeli came to join us.

"Hey, Janiyah. How are you?"

"I'm fine, Marco. Just a little tired, but I'm okay. Have a seat." Dakota liked playing with my necklace.

"I'll be right back." Marco walked over to Graeme, and they started whispering. What are they planning? Graeme, Hunter, Damion, Brett, and Marco walked to the dance floor.

"Ladies and gentlemen, I may not be an accomplished singer, but I have a surprise for my wifey. DJ, please play the music."

"Oh my gosh, this is so adorable!" I stood up out of my chair and danced with Dakota. Everyone stood up and cheered the guys while they sang and dance. Dakota loved it. Jacee did too.

Graeme and the guys danced the same way the guys did in the video. After the song, we gave them a big round of applause. Graeme came over and got his kiss.

"Graeme and Janiyah, remember kids are present," my dad said.

"To be continued later, Mrs. Harrison," Graeme said as he walked back to the dance floor. "We have one more dance."

Shane joined them this time. Shane performed this for Bliss the second time he proposed to her. Shane showed me a video. Shane likes to think he can't dance, but he can.

After the song ended, everyone applauded as Dakota and I walked towards Graeme. "Shane Landes, stop saying you can't dance. I loved the dances, gentlemen. Thank you."

"This next two songs are one for everybody."

This is Jacee's favorite song. She ran over to where we were dancing. Layla came over with Dalton. Bliss, Junior, and Pilar joined us. The Fiore crew came as well, including Cris. Everybody got up and danced.

"Happy Feet!!" The kids screamed as the song came on. This is one of my favorite songs. I am so happy the kids are having fun.

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My body is telling me to rest. Dakota fell asleep in my arms, so I carried him over to Ryan. "Thanks for letting me hold Dakota. We are about to leave."

"You're welcome, Janiyah. That is the longest he has stayed with someone."

I walked over to my dad, who was holding Jacee. "Jacee, sweetie be a good girl for grandma and grandpa tonight, understand? Kiss, Mama."

"Yes, Mama." Jacee kissed my cheek, then I walked over to the DJ.

"Excuse me, everyone, before Graeme and I leave, I am going to dance to an old school song. Janelle and Megan, join me on the dance floor."

Graeme and Hunter had the goofiest grins on their faces as the music came on.

I didn't have to move as much in this song, so that's why I chose it. Graeme and Hunter smirked through the whole danced.

The song ended with a thunderous applause by our guests. "Do you want a ride, Mr. Harrison?"

"Heck yeah! Goodbye, ladies and gentlemen. Enjoy the rest of the party." Everyone laughed as we linked arms, then we left the ballroom. Out front waiting for us was a Mercedes G-Wagon Limo.

"Surprise, Mr. Harrison."

"Sweet ride, Mrs. Harrison. Now, I have a surprise for you. We are spending the next two weeks in Maui. Our luggage is already packed and on your plane."

"You don't have to tell me twice." Graeme helped me inside the limo.

June 2018 was one of the best months of my life because 'Along Came Graeme.' Goodbye, ladies and gentlemen. I'm on my way to Tahiti.

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Anniversary card is courtesy of www. greetingsisland.com

Videos are courtesy of YouTube

'The End' sign is courtesy of Can Stock Photos - © Can Stock Photo / kapitan