We Never Danced to a Love Psalm

By Michelle De Leon

Wade Searcy is no longer attracted to his beautiful plus size bride, Mahalia. A strong woman raised by leaders of the church, Mahalia stands in the gap for her marriage. Not an easy feat when her husband's cousin, Dana lets her know he's willing to respectfully wait for her as God grooms him to be her true husband. Mahalia's brother, Caleb Bettis, is also struggling through his budding gospel career and a recurring relationship with Ariadne Stiles, an atheist who is the love of his life. And Dana, praying for a new life contemplates the strained ties between him and his mother, Kisandra Searcy. How can he break those ties as his mother's freedom is threatened due to an affair with her underaged student? Filled with love, tragedy, hope and inspiraton, We Never Danced to a Love Psalm is a family saga that will never be forgotten.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Heaven's Scribe Media
• Release date: Jan 4, 2017
• ISBN: 9781480241237

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Table of Contents

We Never Danced to a Love Psalm | Michelle De Leon

Dedicated with everlasting love to | Ozzie Price, Earl Price, Jr. and Simba De Leon

WE NEVER DANCED TO A LOVE PSALM

CHAPTER ONE

CHAPTER TWO

CHAPTER THREE

CHAPTER FOUR

CHAPTER FIVE

CHAPTER SIX

CHAPTER SEVEN

CHAPTER EIGHT

CHAPTER NINE

CHAPTER TEN

CHAPTER ELEVEN

ONE YEAR LATER

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We Never Danced to a Love Psalm

Michelle De Leon

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We Never Danced to a Love Psalm is Michelle De Leon’s second Inspirational novel.  She previously published Evangie’s Fortune; a young adult novel featuring a teen Gospel Hip Hop group who wins at Showtime at the Apollo.

Also check out Broken Bands of Gold: Restoring the Covenant; the non-fiction book (Amazon) and the stage play of the same name distributed by JAC Publishing.

Dedicated with everlasting love to

Ozzie Price, Earl Price, Jr. and Simba De Leon

WE NEVER DANCED TO A LOVE PSALM

CHAPTER ONE

Mahalia was having a hard time deciding what to wear. She called out to Wade for his opinion. Hey, would you come here for a minute?

What?

I want to ask you something. Please come here.

She heard him shut off the water in the bathroom. Mahalia could smell the after shave she’d gotten him as he got closer. Okay, what?

I put out some things to wear, but I...

Girl, you ain’t dressed yet?  I swear. It’s not like we’re going to the dang Oscars. It’s just Wanda’s.

Just Wanda’s. You know everyone looks forward to your sister’s parties. I have to find just the right 70’s gear, man. I wish the 80’s was the theme, though. That was my era.

All right, show me what my choices are so we can get this show on the road, Wade said as he followed her over to the bed.

Dag, Wade. You could pretend you’re interested.

He rolled his eyes. Baby, I’m down. But you’re making a big deal when there really doesn’t need to be one. You know how to dress yourself already. Mahalia, you know how to create the illusion.

She wasn’t even about to ask him what he meant by that comment. She knew he’d tell her. So do you think I should go with the mini skirt or the polyester pants?

All your stuff would be hanging out if you tried to rock that mini. And your thighs would rub together in those tight pants.

Mahalia tried to hide her disappointment. That’s all right. I’ll figure it out. Go finish your shave. I’ll be dressed by the time you’re done.

He looked doubtful, but Wade headed back to the bathroom. Mahalia pulled out the third choice; a denim jump suit. It was her least favorite, but she thought maybe she could find something to jazz it up with. She searched for a tie die scarf she knew she had. Mahalia draped the sky blue and white accessory around her neck and pulled the zipper down just enough to show the top of her big breasts. She pulled on the pair of patent leather white go-go boots Wanda lent her. Her look was complete with white hoop earrings.

Wade came back as Mahalia was touching up her Afro puffs with hair spray. He didn’t approve or disapprove. He tapped her butt. At first, Mahalia thought her husband was being playful. Glad you’re ready. Let’s go.

As they went about securing the apartment and turning off lights, Mahalia found the television was still on in the spare room. She was about to shut it off when she realized that it was a DVD. The woman on the screen was very pretty; her body slender and curvaceous. Ebony hair cascaded down her back and the man she was riding brushed her long bangs to the side so her face wouldn’t be hidden from the camera. Mahalia stared at the scene with a mixture of disgust and excitement. She knew the video was not her sin of choice, but watching the pair glisten from their efforts stirred something in her.

Thought you didn’t like these kinds of movies.

Mahalia jumped. No, I don’t care for this, but... it brings back fond memories.

Wade dropped his head. Girl, you know I love you. But...

"I love you should not be followed by a but, Wade."

Are you gonna let me talk?

She didn’t answer. Mahalia just pressed stop on the DVD player.

Babe, you know how it was when we were dating. I couldn’t get enough of you. Morning, noon, night and twice on Sunday.  He said with a chuckle. Then you thickened up. It looked really good on you at first, but then you didn’t know when to stop. I know you can throw down in the kitchen, but it wouldn’t hurt to push back from the table every now and then.

"Um, excuse me, Wade Searcy, but you are no Greek Adonis yourself. And never was, truth be told. I love you. Not just what you look like."

All right, you don’t have to make me sound like King Heel. You brought it up and I’m just being honest.

These movies aren’t good for you. First you’re lusting over a woman in a porno and then the next thing you know, you are lusting over someone in the flesh. It’s a dangerous chance to take, baby love.

Okay, it’s time to go before you start to sermonize. I feel you, Mahalia, but you can’t assume the same thing for everybody. I’m not an evil man because I enjoy adult films. I haven’t and don’t intend to step out on you either.

And I believe you. The sad thing is you it’s like you used up all your love and don’t have a way to generate any more.

Enough of this talk show crap. Let’s go before Wanda won’t let us in.

Mahalia started to remove the disc from the player. Wade stopped her. I’ll get it later.

Fine.

He locked the apartment door behind them and they walked across the lot to their Dodge Intrepid. You made such a big deal about your outfit, but you ain’t said a word about mine.

Mahalia looked him up and down. He sported a short rust colored leather jack with rust colored corduroys. The yellow paisley shirt had a collar that practically touched his nipples. She had to smile. You look smooth, Daddy, like the real deal. Groovy.

Now that’s what I’m talking about.

Wade turned on the car and immediately heard the gospel CD Mahalia had been playing. He ejected it and tossed it to the back seat without placing it in its case. Without a word, Mahalia reached back and put it away properly.

I’m surprised you didn’t hook up something for the party.

Wanda told me I didn’t have to bring anything; she had it covered, she said.

But you know your hot wings are the bomb. Can’t nobody touch you. You just need to ease up on them and save most of them for somebody else.

You know, Wade, I’m not paying you any attention. I intend to have fun tonight.

I’m just teasing you. Don’t be so serious.

It was on the tip of her tongue to tell him he was not even close to funny and his jokes were beyond tired. Put on 102.5 so we can get in the old school mood.

Wade did as his wife told him. Chic’s Le Freak was just starting. Mahalia danced in her seat. He glanced over and saw her breasts bouncing. They were as lovely as ever. He often focused on them and her shapely legs when it came time to do his duty. You might need to tame them bad boys before we get to the party.  He advised her as he nodded towards her chest.

Why?  Are they getting you excited?

Just make sure they don’t excite anyone else!

She turned her head and kept bopping to the music.

The ride from Jonesboro to Lithonia was about a half an hour. The couple conversed, but only because they grew tired of silence after a while. They both willed themselves to be festive as they parked in front of Wanda’s split level home.

The ClayCo Searcys are in the house!

Wade slapped the hands of all his homeboys and male relations. They were a large clan. Mahalia loved her in-laws and they loved her. Wanda squealed as she entered the living room.

Hey, Ma. I’m glad to see you.  Wanda hugged her twin’s wife. Come on in here. Bridget’s home.

Mahalia had visited the twenty-something year old two summers ago in Brooklyn. (Bridget never admitted her age. Some didn’t believe she was still in her twenties although she easily passed for them.)  She had the time of her life hanging out at trendy places and in the hood. Mahalia planned to go back with Wanda for Fashion Week. All three loved clothes with a passion and Bridget worked in the garment district.

Bridget rocked a sequined halter top and white bell bottoms, while Wanda was styling a back out mini dress of a deep coral color. Both women were fierce, as usual.

Hey, girl. I’m feeling that jump suit. And the puffs are too cute.  Bridget embraced Mahalia. How have you been?

You know she’s up for sainthood. Wanda chuckled. Dealing with my brother twenty-four/seven would make anyone eligible.

Mahalia grinned at her girls. He ain’t no thing. It’s his loss if he can’t appreciate all this.  She said as ran her hands down her body jokingly.

Wade’s too foolish to realize how full figures are the in thing now, Bridget commented. Look at Beyonce; Mo’Nique...

I’m no Beyonce, but I’m no Mo’Nique either. Don’t get me wrong. That sister’s all that and then some, but I’m not as heavy as she is.

It’s not so much the looks comparison, but the natural sexiness. You don’t even know how much beauty you exude just by the way you carry yourself. One of these days you’ll know because someone genuine will show you.

Bridget, I’m a married woman. And you know how seriously I take my vows.

Yeah, but sis, you’re saved, not dead.  Wanda added.

Mahalia was thoughtful for a moment. Her mood was broken when the dee jay threw on Flashlight. Okay, enough of this mess, let’s get our party on!

Wanda and Bridget agreed and hustled into the living room behind Mahalia. Folks were already stomping to the infectious beat of the funk classic. People were doing the Snake and the Bus Stop like it was an everyday thing.

Mahalia’s movements were fluid. Her family and friends were always surprised at her agility. She found her husband in the crowd and danced over to him. She turned her back to Wade and proceeded to drop it like it was hot. His boys showed their appreciation with ooohs and aaahs. Wade laughed heartily.

Girl, don’t be showing them my goods, he said.

Don’t listen to him, Mahalia.  Wanda chided. Get down, boogey oogey oogey!

Mahalia was thoroughly enjoying herself. And the attention. The crowd gathered around and cheered her name. She was not the shy one. Growing up a Bettis didn’t give her the opportunity. Her family was outgoing, just like the Searcys. She just wished her parent’s marriage had survived. It seemed like when the enemy set out to seek and destroy, he caught them at just the right moment in time. As she grooved to the music, she reminded herself to give her singing brother, Caleb, a call later. She missed her baby brother.

Wade began to do the bump with his wife. She cracked up when he broke out into the electric boogie. The crowd joined in and the party got started for real.

Wade and Mahalia tore up the dance floor for several songs. Then the pace slowed way down as the dee jay put on Rose Royce’s I Wanna Get Next to You. It had been a long time since Mahalia slow danced. She tried to pull Wade into her arms, but he backed up.

Baby, you may want to go freshen up some. You all sweaty and stuff.

You might want to check your own pits. Looking like you got a lake under each arm!

Wade laughed, but he could see that he’d hurt his wife feelings. He knew he should apologize for his bad joke, but Mahalia had already made it to the other side of the room before he made up his mind to do it. Dang.

Mahalia searched the kitchen for the coolers. Wanda always set up three coolers at her parties: one for alcoholic beverages, one for sodas and one for non-carbonated drinks. Booze sounded pretty good right about then, but she wasn’t a drinker. Before Mahalia could make up her mind, a tall young man came up beside her.

Name your poison.

A Nestea would be fine, thanks.  His hand submerged into the icy water and fished around for her iced tea. He pulled one out and dried it off with a towel from the nearby counter. You look familiar. Who are you kin to?

Actually, me and Bridget are step siblings. I’m Dana. Nice to meet you.

Oh, okay. Nice to meet you, too. Bridget talks a lot about you. I’m just amazed she never got you to come down south before now. I’m Mahalia, by the way.

Mahalia. Like the gospel singer?

Yeah, my parents are huge fans. If I had a dollar for every time someone asked me ‘like the gospel singer’ I’d be a rich woman!

Does it bother you when people ask? Dana wanted to know.

Not bothered; it’s just sort of predictable. I wasn’t dissing you or anything.

No. I didn’t think so. It’s just the name is majestic and it must be a lot to live up to.

Mahalia smiled. I don’t know about all that, Dana. But thanks for the compliment. I think.

Would you like to dance?

Mahalia frowned as she thought about the rude comment her spouse had made. Yes, I’d love to dance.

The song was fading into Me and Mrs. Jones. Mahalia and Dana found a spot on the dance floor. Dana placed his arms around her, but danced with a respectable amount of distance between them. He was tall and slender. He sported a dashiki, but Mahalia could feel his muscles beneath the fabric. His complexion was a beautiful pecan hue and as Mahalia looked up into his eyes, she could see they were an unusual navy blue.

You have beautiful eyes, Dana.

If I had a dollar for every time someone...

Mahalia pinched his arm. Okay, don’t get sassy.

I would tell you how fine you are, but I’m not trying to get into it with Wade.

Please, you don’t have to worry about that. He hardly finds my honor worth defending.  The words were out her mouth before her brain registered what she had said. Sorry, a little marital drama. Didn’t mean to bring it up.

I’m family. You don’t have to divulge your deepest and darkest, but secrets are safe with me, Mahalia.

She nodded, but she knew to keep the rest of her thoughts to herself. Wade being a butt sometimes was no secret, but she didn’t need to discuss her husband’s shortcomings with another man.

What do you do in New York?  Mahalia inquired.

I’m a copywriter for an ad agency. I got the hook up right out of college, so I’ve been doing it for a minute.

Can’t be too many ‘minutes’. You look like a baby.  Mahalia commented. You’ve got to be younger than Bridget.

"Oh. Do you know how old she is?  She won’t tell me. I think if someone threatened my life for the knowledge, I’d be one dead sucker."

They both laughed heartily. Wade glanced over their direction, but when he saw it was just Dana Mahalia was clowning with, he turned back to his boys.

Man, you gonna trust that boy around your wife? Wade’s other cousin wanted to know.

Mahalia’s too much woman for him!  Wade answered.

The music pace picked up again, but Mahalia needed another beverage. She excused herself from the dance floor and retrieved a can of Country Time. She was cooling her forehead with it, when Wanda and Bridget came over.

You’ve done it again, sis. This party is off the chain.  Mahalia said.

Yeah, I’ve got to hand it to you, Wanda. We’re all having a great time. You should be an event planner or something.  Bridget added.

I’ve thought about it, trust me. There’s nothing like being your own boss. Working for other folks is for the birds already.  Wanda pointed out the buffet tables. I could cater the events, as well. You two haven’t eaten yet, have you?  Come on.

The spread was a mixture of appetizers, pasta salads, soul food and homemade desserts. The first thing Mahalia wanted to sample was the wings. Wade was right about one thing; she could make a mean wing. She had to see what Wanda was capable of.

She piled her plate with wings, salad, corn on the cob and fried okra. Are you guys going to Victory in the morning?

Church?  I can’t commit for sure. I’ll have my hands full cleaning up after the party and the way it’s going right now, ain’t no telling when this shin dig is gonna end.

Ah, come on, Wanda. It’s second Sunday. You know I dance on second Sundays.

I know, sweetie. You think you’ll be up to it, Bridget?

I miss going to church down here. I may look like a mess, but I’ll be in the house of the Lord tomorrow.

Cool.  Mahalia beamed.

Dana came up to them and checked out the offerings. Not a whole lot to choose from for us vegetarians.

Way ahead of ya, babe. On that counter over there I have a veggie platter with three kinds of dip. I even got some tofu-masquerading-as-meat-stuff over there just for you.

That’s what I’m talking about.  Dana went off to fix a plate as Wade came up to the trio of women.

Wade looked at his wife’s meal and shook his head. Mahalia, if you need me, I’ll be out in the garage at the casino tables.  He turned to his twin and held up his hand for a high five. Nice touch this year, sistergirl.

Thank ya, thank ya.

Mahalia barely paid her husband any mind. She was trying to finish her food without getting into it with him. Why didn’t he just leave her alone? 

Wanda went off to tend to her other guests. Bridget was smacking on a tender pork rib. It’s good to be around family. At least this branch of the clan. Mahalia, when I tell you sugar has hit the fan in the Rotten Apple, you wouldn’t believe all the sordid details.

What’s wrong?

Dana came back with his food and a bottle of Aquafina. Bridget slightly shook her head, signaling to Mahalia that they needed to drop the subject in front of her step brother.

Wanda’s so cool. This is perfect.  Dana said. Anybody want to try tofurkey?

Um, that would be a no, Mahalia answered.

A good looking brother walked up to Bridget as she was licking her fingers. I like how you do that, he said. Would you care to dance with me?

Bridget had the deer caught in the headlights look on her face, but she composed herself quickly and went off to dance.

"So what do you do here in Atlanta?"

I’m an executive assistant at a pediatric healthcare organization. I enjoy the work, but as we were talking about a little earlier, I’d love to own my own business. Not sure what kind yet, but I may go for a Master’s in something or other.

What’s your passion?

Mahalia thought about it for a moment. God is my passion. I love Him; His will and His ways. I love all things spiritual; not necessarily religious. Relationship trumps religion any day.

Dana seemed surprised at her answer. Wow. That’s deep.

Really, it shouldn’t be. It should be natural to love The Lord. But that’s just me. I praise Him and try my best to honor Him in all that I do. I’m even a sanctuary dancer at my church. Bridget will be there tomorrow; will you come with her?

I’d enjoy that. I see how you get down at a house party; you must really bust a move for God.  He smiled, but then caught himself. I wasn’t trying to be disrespectful, Mahalia. Actually, I’d like to learn more about the bible and faith. I know something’s been missing from my life and for a long while, I’ve felt that could be it.

You weren’t being disrespectful. I do bust many glorious moves for His glory.  She laughed. Do you go to church at all in New York?

Rarely, but not because I don’t want to. I don’t even know how to explain it. The places I’ve been to just haven’t fulfilled the need the way I expected them to. Maybe it’s not them, but me. In any case, I’ll be in the front row in the morning.

Good. I can’t wait.

There’s something very...attractive about a woman of God. They have a confidence that’s rooted in something other than their own egotism. It’s refreshing.

Mahalia wasn’t sure if Dana’s comment was a come on, but she decided not to worry about it. You’re a writer; I wish my brother, Caleb was in town so maybe you two could collaborate.

Is he a writer, too?

He does write many of the songs he records. I helped him on a few, but movement is my ministry, she told him.

He records?  Gospel?

Yes. Caleb Bettis. He’s won a few awards, but he’s not quite the household name yet. It’s a funky business. He’s phenomenal at what he does, but preconceived notions are holding him back.

Before Dana could ask her what she meant, Wanda announced it was time for the runway contest. Participants would parade their outfits and the one with the most applause would win a prize.

Are you going up there?

Mahalia considered it for a minute and decided to give it a shot. She lined up with the other contestants. The dee jay threw on Dancing Machine. The crowd was hyped as soon as they heard the Jackson’s sing the opening line...dancin’, dancin’, dancin’, she’s a dancing machine.

There were some fly outfits in the competition. Mahalia patted her puffs just before it was her turn to strut. The revelers showed their support by chanting her name. She crooked her finger at Wade to come closer. His boys pushed him forward. Just as he approached her, Mahalia blew him a kiss and turned away in true diva fashion. There was applause as she made her way back up the runway.

Mahalia was a crowd pleaser, but she was no match for the young thing that stepped up next. She rocked white leather hot pants and thigh high boots to match. The bra like top was also leather with long fringes that hung and swung with her every move. A sequined band crowned her hair which was parted down the middle with two long braids on either side. Pocahontas won hands down.

Mahalia made her way back to the buffet table and was debating whether to try a slice of pie or a piece of cake. Wade tapped her on the shoulder. Very funny, Mrs. Searcy. The guys will be jonesing on me for your little dis. But the contest was hot. Young thang had it going on. 

She could tell that he wasn’t really upset; he just wanted to act a fool. If I went up there showing all my stuff too, then maybe I would have won.

I don’t know; nobody, but me can handle all your stuff.

Is that an invitation?  You’re gonna handle my stuff when we get home?

Wade rolled his eyes, but he gave her a squeeze.

The party began to wind down. Mahalia offered to help with the clean up efforts, but Wanda told her to go home and get some sleep. She bid Bridget a good night with a hug and as Wade was making plans to meet up with his friends, Mahalia went in search of Dana.

She found him lounging on a chaise in the back yard. He was gazing up at the stars. He didn’t turn as she came towards him. Is your church one of those holier than thou places?  I mean, does the congregation look down on people who aren’t on their level?

We welcome everyone no matter where they are on life’s journey. And it is a journey. We may call ourselves saints, but none of us are perfect. We all fall short, but that’s the beauty of grace and mercy. I can’t wait for you to see for yourself. Wade thinks I preach, but I guess it’s in my blood. I grew up with church folks.

That’s nothing to apologize for. Bridget’s dad, my stepfather is churchy and mad cool. I love that dude to death. Especially after what went down with my mother. That’s a story for another time.  He finally faced her. Your husband’s waiting on you.

Mahalia stared at him before responding. Well, I guess...I’ll see you at Victory in the morning. Good night, Dana.

Sleep well.

She waved and then went off to join Wade.   They said a final good bye to his sister and the rest of the family and then took off in their Intrepid.

Bridget and Dana are coming to see me dance tomorrow. Are you finally gonna come?

No. I promised Seth I’d ride with him out to Macon, remember?

She didn’t, but wasn’t about to cop to it. Honestly, Mahalia doubted he’d mentioned those plans to her. Well, I have a prominent role in this particular performance. I guess I’ll just buy the DVD for you to watch. That’s if you have room for it in your vast collection of videos.

Will your father be there?

Yeah, he’s a deacon. I’m glad that he’s made church an important part of his life again. I was just thinking about Caleb. He’s touring right now. I think Mama will be in Atlanta soon, too.

Family reunion time. Tell Baron I said what’s up. We used to hang tight, but now he’s all caught up with Victory business, Wade said in regards to his father-in-law.

It wouldn’t hurt you to get caught up in kingdom concerns. He has a good time helping out with our new television broadcast.

He’s just trying to compete with your mama. Nynah’s blown up. She’s like a mega star.

Mahalia smiled. Mama’s ministry has come a long way, but she’s not a celebrity, she’s a pastor. Her show is seen on more channels now and she does speaking engagements nationwide. I’d love to travel with her out of the country. Maybe we could tag along on her next tour...

Wade shrugged. "Both Nynah and Caleb have built their success on biting our style. White folks shouldn’t be hooping like blacks. I guess those two