The Story of My Vegetarian Life

Author

Chapter 1

The Beginning

The simple days…

Even as a child, Angela had a hard time expressing herself. Well, providing that expression for others’ to understand, that is. Being unique was something this caramel skinned, freckled faced, brown eyed girl took pride in. Though never telling people in those exact words, her matchless personality was clearly evident whenever she walked into a room. Yes, Angela Michelle Glenn was special. In school, while other kids played hop-scotch and dodge ball during recess, it was not uncommon to find young Angela sitting in the corner writing poetry. She marveled about world wars, love, history, and asked, Why is the sky blue? and How do birds find their way home? Granted, this was all by pre-Kindergarten. Angela’s mind was imaginary without a care of what others thought.

Growing up with an older sister and younger brother was exhausting. Life as a middle child was typical, leaving no specific place to fit in. As a result Angela often reverted into her own secluded space writing while observing the world around her. Not easily swayed, she worked obstacles out and developed her own opinions without conforming to most. The majority would agree she was out of the ordinary. However, to this fledgling Philadelphia girl filled with ambition, what other way was there to be?

Over the years, Angela kept up with writing. Elementary school poems became essays and essays became featured short stories. Continuing the path, Angela could now add columnist for a major magazine publication to her resume.

I write about love and relationships, as I should. I have a loving and supportive family and a boyfriend who is the love of my life.

This was her notable quote told to any and everyone who would ask about the column. In fact, that line had even become an inside joke between friends.

There was no doubt Angela considered Jamison, whom she referred to as Sweets because they were high school sweet hearts, the love of her life. They appeared to be the picture perfect couple, together for over thirteen years. Jamie traveled to Boston for college studying broadcast journalism and Angela, being grade behind, followed a year later. Most would agree that their unity was second nature. Angela hoped to make her mother proud by following in her footsteps. Angela’s parents too were high school sweet hearts. They raised a wonderful family and through the years, have continued to love each other unconditionally. Angela was sure that Jamie would be her first and last love.

Going as planned…

During Jamie’s last college internship in New York City, he was given a permanent position with a major television network. This was the start of what they both dreamed of. While Jamie got settled in New York, Angela completed her last year of undergrad. With no distractions, Angela’s writing soared. Her achievements eventually lead to being offered the career opportunity of a lifetime in Chicago. Angela knew this was a game changer but believed everything would work itself out. A little more time apart couldn’t tarnish the love she and Jamie shared. They were unbreakable. She thought to establish her career in Chicago then move to New York with credibility. Or maybe Jamie would move to Chicago. Whatever the outcome, they would be together.

On a weekend visit to see Jamie, Angela was finally ready to share the news of the Chicago job offer. Procrastinating only because she wanted to tell him in person, they could celebrate together. While at dinner, Jamie spoke of how much he loved his career and the people he worked with. He also expressed that he couldn’t be apart any longer and was ready for Angela to move to New York. Now faced with a dilemma, Angela was defenseless inside. Going against her better judgment, she opted to turn down the job offer, never mentioning it to Jamie.

That was the moment Angela fully lost who she was. The once sole minded girl began to fade. For the first time Angela felt run of the mill, not willing to take a chance, a belief unfamiliar to herself. The disconnection was evident in her heart. Fearful of what may have followed had she taken the job, loyal hearted Angela relocated to New York City after graduation. Her word was bond and Jamie needed her. Love conquers all right?

In New York’s saturated writing market, with no permanent work and a tiny apartment in Brooklyn, Angela made it work. Temporary jobs and staying in the writing circuit led to freelance gigs. After hustling in the city for five years, Angela finally got a break, her own column no less. Things had been working in she and Jamie’s favor and they were finally able to move onto the tiny island known as Manhattan. Life was going according to script for Angela, considering she had been writing this screenplay in her head for over a decade.

Naturally, wedding bells were next on Angela’s check list. It was New Year’s Eve. Jamie asked her to meet him at their favorite restaurant for dinner before going to a friend’s private party. Traditionally, the couple shared a special dinner to sort of, throw out the old and bring in the new. New Year’s Eve also marked the anniversary of when Jamie gave Angela a promise ring. Getting an engagement ring this night would make for the perfect story to tell their future children. That morning, Jamie left the apartment acting very peculiar. Certain he was anxious about the proposal, Angela didn’t fret too much.

Angela loved this time of year. Winter nights were perfect for cuddling, which she hoped to do a lot of with her new fiancé. Jamie mentioned he wanted to have a heart-to-heart conversation like old times. In college, they would sit for hours discussing their imminent life together. How many children they wanted, where they would travel; a life of bliss was pretty much set in stone. Angela was so excited about their date that she went well above her financial means on a new dress to match the sexy hair cut she was able to fit in on an extended lunch.

Thinking,

Maybe this will get my mom off my back about asking for more grandbabies. I want kids but the pressure is on…we have to plan the wedding and leave time for us as newlyweds. Anyway tonight is the night so I have to look HOT! I’m 29 and this is long overdue. It’s time to ring in the New Year!

That evening, Angela had to stay late for the editor’s approval of her latest piece entitled How much are you willing to take. In Angela’s opinion, this was one of her topmost written articles. The topic touched on race, self-esteem and specifically, black love. She felt confident about this subject matter after witnessing women, some being close connections, involved in situations where physical and mental abuse were common practices. She observed women struggle with men who controlled their whole livelihood.

Choosing to block most of those memories from her adulthood, Angela vowed to never fall victim to similar circumstances. She believed black women accepted unwarranted drama from black men because they’re dedicated creatures by nature. This article would be an interesting read for all, as long as her editor saw it her way. Waiting, Angela’s mind was racing while envisioning the future.

"Once I get approval, it should leave just enough time to change clothes and meet up with my Sweets! How is he going to propose, when did he pick out the ring? I see it now. He’ll start his own production company and I’ll become a world renowned novelist! We’ll travel the world adopting children while helping the global economy….and shall I say the White House? Ok, ok, but we will make moves! He gets me and I’m comfortable with that."

Along hold, the approved sanctioned email from the editor came in. Angela got herself together and went on her way; off to meet her love with the fragrance of Hanae Mori trailing behind her in the winter winds.

Tonight’s the start of something new…

As bitter cold as it was outside, Angela arrived at the restaurant with sweaty palms. Unlike her usual self trained calm and cool demeanor, tonight the butterflies had taken over.

This is what every girl dreams of whether they believe it or not, to make the ultimate commitment!

Angela knew as a black couple, marriage didn’t happen every day. Believing the reason it took this long to get engaged was because of Jamie’s issues with his father, Mr. Greg. Mr. Greg ran out on Jamie’s family when he was 10 years old. He remarried, had another son and continued on with a new life. Jamie never even had the opportunity to establish a genuine relationship with his younger half-brother, blaming his self for years about his parents break up. Angela’s support helped him see otherwise. They agreed to start a family only when they were both at the right stage in their lives. Something they made certain went according to plan.

Angela on the other hand, had a very different family dynamic. Both parents still together, her mother, Ruth Ann made sure there was a close nit bond between the siblings. Family was first in Ruth’s eyes and she would do anything to keep them together. Growing up in a full house, Angela understood why Jamie wanted their situation to be absolute before starting a family.

As Angela entered the doors of the trendy French restaurant, all eyes were on her. She definitely didn’t go wrong pairing the pink Miu Miu heels with the purple Vera Wang dress, curved in all the right places!

Oh, Sweets is here already? That’s a first she thought noticing Jamie already seated across the room.

Waiting for Jamie was something she’d grown accustomed too over the years. Whether a dinner date or quiet night at home, Jamie was always last to arrive.

Then it hit her,

I know! He arrived early to have the chef place the engagement ring on my dessert plate. What I sweetie, but I’ll still act surprised when I see it!

In proper etiquette, Angela addressed the hostess to be escorted to the table. Couples romantically touching hands, while starring into one another’s eye’s, filled the area. Laughter could be heard from the crowded bar as martinis were shaken. The jazz band was preparing for their next set while Jill Scott played as background music. Love was unquestionably in the air. Angela took her time as she approached Jamie, step by step examining the atmosphere. She wanted to remember every moment of the finest night of her life.

Jamie, mocha complexioned, dark fade and freshly trimmed beard stood to greet her with a kiss on the cheek. Angela was smitten he wore the grey sports jacket gifted by her on his last birthday. Though pretentious at times, Jamie had no problem taking a risk with fashion, pairing the coat with an orange cashmere sweater. The fit was perfect over his 5’11" broad shoulders.

Angela’s high heels placed her at eye level with Jamie’s round lips as she closed her eyes to give him a kiss. After taking one last glance at the man of her dreams she sat. Noticing her favorite drink had already been ordered, Angela immediately took a sip to calm her nerves. The setting was just how she imagined it!

Jamie

You’re finally here. I’ve been waiting for like 15 minutes.

Sorry, I ran late… but my article was approved! I can’t wait for this edition to print!

Right, how was work anyway?

It was good. Sorry I didn’t have a chance to call at lunch.

It’s cool. I was kind of tied up anyway.

So…

So?

My new cut silly! Do you like?

Oh, yeah, wow… its short…but… it looks good while