Chapter 24 Blessings

• Anthony family was preparing to leave. Patrick called Mark and Victoria and told them that he wanted to bless them since they were about to get married. Patrick looked at them smiling, “may the Lord protect you, guide you and surround you with loving kindness. May He grant you favor. Blessings upon blessing my son and my daughter.” Mark and Victoria smiled at him and said, “We received it gladly.” Then he hugged them. Timothy was beaming, “may the Lord bless you with beautiful children and may your house be filled with laughter.” Mark and Victoria smiled and said, “We received it gladly.” Then he kissed Victoria on both cheeks and hugged his son. He would never forget this day ever; he would be forever grateful to Victoria for changing his son’s mind. Mark promised to fetch Victoria at 9 am to register their marriage. Father and son left after lunch. Mark dropped his father at home. He stepped out of his car and opened the door for his father. “Dad, thank you for your support, much appreciated.” His father hugged his son tightly, “it’s a pleasure my son, thank you for allowing me to be part of your life. My heart filled with gratitude, son.” Then Mark went to his mansion.
• Timothy called Patrick Lewis and told him that he had arrived safely. Grace was sitting in the living room; Timothy greeted his wife and went to his bedroom to rest. Grace followed her husband; she wanted to apologize for what she said. Timothy looked at her and told her that he wanted to be alone. Grace felt bitterness in her heart. She took her phone and called her son; she told him to come back home urgently. Jonathan was with his friends drinking. He was scared to face his father because he missed Mark’s betrothal ceremony. He told his friends that there was an urgent matter at home, and then he left.
• When Jonathan arrived home, his mother was alone in the living room. “What is so urgent Mom?” asked Jonathan annoyed. His mother sighed, “Your dad is angry that you didn’t accompany Mark. He is also angry with me because I told him that Victoria is a divorcee. I don’t understand what is special about Victoria. Bongiwe told me that she had been abandoned by James Johnson.” Jonathan was dumbfounded. “Are you saying that Mark is going to marry a divorcee? Was dad angry Mom?” Jonathan laughed aloud; he was so happy. It was the best news ever. While he was laughing, he saw his father coming into the living room. He heard everything they were saying but he was not angry. He greeted his son and sat down on the sofa. Then the Housekeeper informed them that dinner was ready. The atmosphere was tense; Timothy Anthony didn’t utter a word.