The Merge II: Dream Yourself to Love

By Morgan B. Holland

Mye knows how to love herself and exactly how she wants to be loved. The question remains, can Emerson love her that way? A love affair 25 years in the making. Now the two can be one and collectively make three, but is the time right? With Emerson’s ex-wife in his ear, and his fear of the unknown, will he make a move? Mye is on a fast movi

• Language: English
• Publisher: Mullen Press
• Release date: Jan 20, 2020
• ISBN: 9781732345843

Morgan B. Holland

Morgan B. Holland lives in Baltimore, MD and is an author and the business owner of www.GoalCare.com and www.MullenPress.com. When she's not speaking on how to align your spiritual, emotional, and mental worlds to accomplish goals quicker. She helps people ignite the storyteller within and publish books for the world to see. To learn more about Morgan B. Holland and to get the full Merge Series visit: www.MorganBHolland.com

Book preview

CHOOSE TO LOVE FREELY

The year was 1993. It was a cool Autumn day in Spring Valley Washington, DC. Mye grimaced in pain as she fumbled with her keys quickly being reminded that she recently dislocated the middle knuckle of her index finger on her right hand. She awkwardly held the keys in her left hand trying to open the door when Nurse Campbell opened it for her.

Oh my God child! What happened? asked Ms. Campbell.

14 year old Mye was discharged from the hospital earlier that morning and had to be at the courthouse by 9 am to get housing. If she missed her court date then she would be homeless so she didn’t have time to talk to nurse Campbell. She rushed over straight from the hospital to check on her Nana.

I can’t talk now Ms. Campbell, but I can explain everything later. Is Nana awake? Mye asked.

Truthfully, nurse Campbell was more nosy than concerned. She’d been Nana’s nurse since Mye’s mom was kidnapped and she only did the bare minimum for Nana. That’s one reason Mye never went more than three days without seeing her, until this week. Mye had been in the hospital for the last four days and unconscious for three of those days and never had an opportunity to check in with her Nana.

Nurse Campbell said, No problem. I’m finishing up my rounds. She’s been fed and changed so I’m about to leave soon.

Mye walked slowly bracing herself for each painful step careful not to rip her staples in her back. When she got to the bottom of the spiral stairs that led to Nana’s bedroom she thanked God that Nana had a chair lift for her stairs. When she got to the room Nana was taking short rapid breaths. When she saw Mye her breathing calmed and she smiled brightly.

My Mye, she said through a huge smile. You are beautiful my child, she said as she reached for Mye’s hand.

Nana is nearly blind. Mostly sees only shapes and colors, however she could always identify Mye and always called her beautiful. Nana was 85 years old and extremely frail. Her body systems were failing her, one after the other. She was slowly dying from the inside out and had been for quite sometime. She had lost eight lbs since the last time Mye saw her five days ago. Her already pale skin was wrinkled and ghostly grey. Her once thick brunette hair was white and balding. She could barely keep her blue eyes open as she smiled at Mye.

Careful not to tear her stitches, she knelled down on the floor to get eye level with Nana making sure she kept her back straight.

I’ve missed you Nana, Mye whispered. I’m sorry I haven’t-

Shhhh, said Nana cutting her off. Never say I’m sorry. It’s acceptable to apologize, but never to say I’m sorry. You are not sorry. Be mindful not to ever make yourself small so another can feel big. You are the most beautiful amazing spirit I’ve ever met and there is nothing sorry about you, said Nana in a whisper.

Mye wept silently. Thank you.

Nana continued, I’ve held on for as long as I could dear and now my time has come. Can you do me a favor after I transition? Nana asked.

Of course. Anything.

***

Nurse Campbell was packing up her belongings preparing to leave when a young man in a tailored black suit came through the front door.

Who the hell are you and how did you get in here? she asked.

I didn’t mean to startle you. My name is Adam, I’m Miriam Levy’s attorney and I used my personal key to get in, he said as he dangled his keys in the air. Adam stood about six feet even, with dark brown hair and blue eyes. He had a chiseled chin and a welcoming smile.

You look a little young to be an attorney, said nurse Campbell with a doubtful smirk.

Adam chuckled, I assure you I am, he said as he handed her his business card. Feel free to call my office to verify.

Nurse Campbell took the card, I will do just that, but not right now. I have to go. She went to the bottom of the staircase and yelled, Mye! Mrs. Levy’s attorney is down here! I’m gone see you later! Then she looked Adam over once more and walked out the door. Adam walked to the master bedroom on the main floor and opened the door slowly. He was surprised to find it empty.

She’s upstairs, said Mye.

Adam turned around and was startled by Mye’s appearance. She was 5’7" about 120 lbs with a slim hour glass figure. Her deep brown Mahogany skin glistened in the sunlight that shined through the curtains with visible purple blueish bruises all over her body. Her right eye was nearly swollen shut. Even standing still she appeared to be in pain.

Even though Mye looked like she was hit by a train, her beauty was still undeniable. Her green eyes were entrancing and she caught the lawyer staring into them. She looked down feeling uncomfortable. She always wore her brown contacts because she blamed her green eyes for the horrible things her dad did to her. She stopped seeing them as a thing of beauty years ago, but the hospital discarded her contacts after her attack.

Trying to regain his composure the lawyer asked, Why is she upstairs?

Mye replied, She used to sleep in there, pointing to the master bedroom. But after she became bed ridden she wanted to be moved to her son’s room. Our daily exercise used to be walking up to her son’s room and walking back down here, smiled Mye.

When did she become bed ridden? Adam asked.

Last year. Back then the doctors said that she only had days to live but that was a year ago. They were off by a whole 365 days, Mye said somberly.

Adam said, She passed away.

Yes, she whispered as she wiped away a tear. She passed away about five minutes before you came. She left me with three specific instructions before she transitioned. First being, not to tell nurse Campbell. She didn’t want to hold her up. Ms. Campbell is always in a rush to leave. The second thing was to call her attorney and to tell him first. She said you would know what to do, said Mye looking at Adam worriedly. Coincidently, you are already here. Are you alright Mr?

Adam’s heart sunk but he snapped out of it and said, Yes, ummm

Mye. Mye Amor Almonte… Never lost a client before huh?

He shook his head, No and my name is Adam.

Well Mr. Adam, please know that Nana transitioned peacefully and on her terms, smiled Mye.

Nana? said Adam.

Yea. I called Mrs. Levy, Nana, smiled Mye. She didn’t have any grandkids so she kinda adopted me as her granddaughter. My mom use to be her nurse and would bring me to work with her sometimes. After my mom-, Mye started to weep silently, then she pulled herself together and sniffled. After my mom went missing when I was 6, I didn’t see Mrs. Levy for a few years, but when I turned 12, I started catching the train here. You know just checking on her and stuff, said Mye.

Adam asked, How old are you now?

14.

Adam whispered, What happened?

Mye looked at the ground and whispered, "I was attacked.

Adam walked over to Mye, So what are you doing here? You should be somewhere resting.

Mye replied, I never go more than three days without seeing Nana. It keeps the nurses honest, she winked.

Adam smiled back.

I know she didn’t have much time so I just wanted to make the time she had left as nice as possible. I wanted to make sure she knew I loved her. I know what it feels like to not feel wanted and I never wanted her to feel that way. Besides, I don’t have a home to go to right now anyways. I have to get to court by 9 am so they can find me a foster home.

Adam stepped off and looked out the bay window. He did everything in his power not to get emotional. He couldn’t comprehend how this child could stand beaten and hurt but still have the ability to love a person who isn’t even family. He couldn’t understand how she was even functioning. Mye snapped him out of his trance by tapping him on the shoulder.

Ummm Mr. Adam. I have to start heading to the courthouse. I don’t move as fast as I usually do, Mye chuckled. My taxi should be here shortly so I have to start making my way to the curbside.

Adam wiped his tears then turned around with red eyes. Mye handed him a big manila envelope.

Nana started writing me checks two years ago when I first started visiting her again. I told her not to. My love is genuine. It’s not for sale and it can’t be bought. Besides, she had dementia and it is not right taking money from a person who has a problem remembering things. She was a good woman Mr. Adam. I wish you could have met her, said Mye as she made her way to the front door.

Oh yea. Her third request was for this message to get to her only child, her son, Junior. She wanted him to know that she forgives him and loves him with all her heart. She said she couldn’t be more proud of him and she said to tell him not to grieve too long for her because she is in a better place. Can you remember that Mr. Adam or should I write it down? Mye asked.

No need to write it down, he sniffled. I can remember that.

Mye added, Well here are the keys to the house, she said as she laid the keys on a small table by the door. In case I never see you again Mr. Adam have a nice day and live life on purpose, smiled Mye as she walked out of the door and closed it behind her.

Adam walked to the bottom of the spiral staircase, sat on the bottom step and sobbed uncontrollably. As he tried to get himself together he counted 52 checks in the envelope. A 10,000 dollar check was written to Mye once every two weeks for the last two years. Adam broke down at the thought of a 14 year old, homeless, foster kid, brutally beaten, walking away from that much money.

Even at Mye’s lowest point, she wouldn’t allow a half a million dollars to be confused as buying her love. She chose to love freely and left all the money on the table.

***

CHAPTER ONE

LET’S GET MARRIED

The historic Baltimore Basilica Cathedral was filled with love and tears of joy with standing room only. Mye stared in adoration at Emerson as the priest officiated the wedding ceremony. She wore a Cushnie Et Ochs white lily beaded silk gown that perfectly framed her neckline with a beautiful beaded collar. The silk dress cascaded down her body giving a sultry yet elegant look. Her hair was pinned up with curls naturally perfectly twined, adorned with strategically placed white flowers. Her mahogany skin glistened with a natural glow as she held tightly to each word the priest spoke. She flashed her infectious smile causing Emerson to blush. Her cosmo red lipstick made her bright smile appear even whiter than ever. She’d dreamed of the life she and Emerson would have moving forward, fighting back tears as she thought about all they’d been through together.

Then the priest said the magical phrase all came to hear, I now pronounce you husband and wife. You may kiss the bride. Mye and Emerson clapped enthusiastically as Kara and her new husband kissed passionately as if no one was watching. Kara, Mye’s assistant at her Psychology office, had found her happily ever after.

I’s married now! said Kara loudly while waving her hand for all to see. Everyone broke out in laughter as the couple kissed again then walked down the aisle out of the church.

***

The reception had been in full swing for about an hour, and Mye still hadn’t gotten a chance to grab a dance with Emerson. At 6’1" 215 pounds, Emerson was a work of art. A solid muscular build with broad shoulders and smooth dark chocolate skin. His low haircut perfectly sculpted his face along with his thick eyebrows and chiseled chin. Mye spotted him across the room and couldn’t wait to dance with him. She sashayed over and grabbed him from behind. He jumped startling her.

What are you doing? he whispered looking around to see if anyone saw what just transpired as he pushed her hands off of him.

What’s wrong Em? Mye questioned slightly confused by his reaction. Stop acting weird. Let’s dance, she said as she grabbed both of his hands.

He quickly pulled his hands back, I don’t think that’s a good idea. I’m actually a little tired, it’s been a long day. I’m going to go home a little early.

Okay, let me grab my coat, she replied.

No, Emerson said quickly, then he slowed down his speech. Enjoy yourself and say your proper goodbyes and such. Then come over my house later, he smiled.

Mye agreed reluctantly. She leaned in to give him a kiss on the lips and he turned his head so she could kiss his cheek instead. She gave a him a weak smile then turned and disappeared into the crowd. Emerson left and Mye enjoyed herself the rest of the afternoon at the reception.

Mye and Emerson had been spending more and more time together since the death of her ex-husband and the start of Emerson’s divorce proceedings. Emerson agreed to Delilah’s terms and gave her everything she wanted: the house, the cars, and half of the savings account he solely put into but she still was not happy. There was no pleasing this woman. Emerson did his best moving on with his life as he braced for another outrageous request from Delilah's attorney. Emerson leased a house that Bhavani and Jia flipped in the Burleith Neighborhood, 3900 block Georgetown Court. It was five minutes from the University hospital and was fully decorated and furnished to his specific style. It was smaller than his marital home but way more peaceful.

Emerson’s phone vibrated, Hey Em I’ll be there in less than five minutes.

He smiled as he finished his last set of bench pressing. He lived for these moments with Mye. He didn’t know where things were going, but he knew he wanted to be with her and only her. There lie his problem. He knew he wanted Mye, however he was slowly starting to realize she was a package deal. Mye appeared to be like the Sun, in which everyone kind of orbited around her. Some, like her children and Truman had a tight orbit, in Emerson’s opinion. While others like Tara and Penelope had a broader less oblique orbit, yet they orbited around Mye nonetheless. Emerson wanted Mye and Mye alone, not necessarily all that came with her.

The door bell rang. Emerson jogged to the front door and opened it. He was wearing grey basketball shorts, a white t-shirt, white socks and black Nike flip flops. Mye stood glowing with a huge smile still wearing her maid of honor dress. Alex stood beside her holding an overnight bag.

Well, can I come in? she asked with a smile.

Of course, said Emerson as he moved to the side and grabbed the bag from Alex. Thank you Alex. Have a nice day! Emerson added as he closed the door.

The wedding was so beautiful! Kara looked radiant didn’t she? asked Mye as she sat on Emerson’s grey plush couch and took off her shoes.

Even her feet are perfect, he thought.

What happened earlier Em? Why didn’t you want to dance with me? Mye asked as she begin to pull bobby pins out of her hair.

Emerson stood there staring at her as she put each pin inside of a small mirror case. More curls begin to fall down each time she removed a pin. Then she gently massaged her head while also looking for any additional pins.

My apologies Em. Do you mind if I make myself comfortable? she asked.

Oh not at all, he stuttered. My casa, tu casa.

Mi casa es su casa, giggled Mye then she slowly said, Puedes sobar mi cabeza? As she massaged her head.

You want a head massage? Emerson asked.

Si señor. Muy bueno, said Mye clapping happily.

Emerson sat back on the couch to get comfortable. Mye scooted over, away from him and begin to lay down as if to put her head on his lap. Emerson realized he was aroused and had to stop her so he could adjust himself.

Wait Mye, he said as he stopped her from laying down. She sat back up.

What’s wrong? she asked.

I’m sure this dress will be a little bit uncomfortable laying down. Perhaps I can unzip it to give you some more room to move? he asked.

She smirked at him, That’s very considerate of you. Then she turned her back to him and lifted her hair off of her neck. Emerson took this time to readjust his manhood and to unzip her dress. As he unzipped her dress he noticed that she was not wearing a bra and then he realized her zipper went past her lower back and he didn’t know how far to pull down the zipper so he stopped mid back.

Mye said, It’s ok Em. Then she looked back at him and whispered, You can go all the way.

Emerson unzipped her dress completely. There was no hiding or repositioning his manhood now. He was at full attention and his basketball shorts did little to conceal his girth.

Mye turned around, noticed Emerson’s manhood and said, Now how are you going to massage my head with that in the way.

He chuckled out loud and threw his hands in the air.

Well, I guess we are going to have to do something about it, she said through a slight smirk with her left arm resting on his leg and her head resting on her hand.

Mye used her free hand to gently slide it up the bottom opening of his shorts, slowly up his thigh to his manhood. Emerson leaned his head back in utter bliss. It was about to happen. 25 years of sexual tension was about to be released. Her being this close made him weak. Having Mye here in his lap was unbearable. He was trying his best not to get too excited but the anticipation of finally getting his girl was growing greater with each stroke of her hand. Mye was beginning to pull out his manhood from the top of his shorts as she made intense eye contact with him. Her green eyed gaze was unbearable. Emerson felt a surge of emotions overcoming him and could not control himself as he erupted prematurely. Then the front door opened and Emerson pushed Mye off his lap knocking her to the floor.

In walks Truman as Emerson quickly readjusts himself.

What the hell? he said as he jogged over to Mye as she was rubbing her head. Emerson adjusted his shorts quickly. Truman was about six feet even at about 190 pounds. He had dark red hair that was always neatly in place and intense brown eyes. His skin was extremely fair during this time of year making his freckles even more noticeable.

I hit the floor hard, Mye chuckled.

I’m sooo sorry, Emerson said to Mye in embarrassment.

It’s okay, she chuckled. No big deal, she smiled.

Truman said, Now you listen here Ana Mae. This is a very big deal. You did not leave an emotionally and financially abusive relationship to end up in a physically abusive one.

Mye laughed, No. That’s not what happened.

Truman stood up quickly and asked, Ewww, what’s that? Pointing to the semen on Emerson’s shorts.

Did that… do that? asked Truman pointing to the semen then to Mye on the floor. Did you cum so hard that she flew across the room? That shit ain’t natural. Has it been that long? You need to get you one of those dolls or something and release yourself before hand.

Truman! yelled Mye trying to keep from laughing. Why are you here?

You didn’t answer your phone, he replied.

I was literally in the middle of something, Mye said.

Truman replied, Thank you for correctly using the word literally you know I hate when people misuse that word.

Truman! yelled Mye.

O-K, feisty. I just need the Jacobson file, he said.

"It’s in my briefcase in my