Alliyah

Back in the city, they parted ways. She mostly stayed home to spend all her time with Lamar - playing basketball, playing video games, going to the bodega - it was as though they were anxious about being apart. They didn’t tell anyone, but both had nightmares and would end up sharing Alliyah’s bed.

One night, Alliyah’s bedroom - the living room - was painted blue from the moonlight coming through the windows. They lied in her bed, while she stroked Lamar’s hair, trying to soothe him to sleep.

“He pointed his gun at me. And he shot.” Lamar spoke softly. “He shot… But his hand was shaking so badly that he missed me. I always knew he disliked me, but… Not to that point.” He shook his head. “Why me? Why us?”

Lamar’s words were heavy; contrasting the light tone of his child's voice. Alliyah let her pillow absorb the tears sliding down her face. He hadn’t talked about the shooting, and she hadn’t forced him to, therefore it came as a surprise when he proffered those words.

She wanted to be strong for him, but damn it, she was only human. She had emotions. The woman attempted to speak in a non-wavering voice:

“There will always be people in this world who don’t like that you’re different. But you can’t let that stop you, Little. Never. Because there will always be people who will love you for being different.”

She realized the tears were no longer there, as though her own words comforted her.

“Your pride and confidence in who you are, your passion, creativity, and humility, your compassion, these are the things that will take you far. I know the future holds great, golden things for you. You’re going to be so, so happy, and you’re going to bring joy to everyone who will let you in their lives.”

He turned to face her and hugged her so tightly against his small body. He was crying, but those were tears of joy, she knew.

“Thank you. I love you. You better be one of those people who will be in my future life.”

“Of course. You’re never getting rid of me. You’ll be an old little man, and I’ll still be there nagging you to put a coat on.”

“I hope by then I’ll have learned to check the weather before going outside.” He chuckled.

The house still smelled like the popcorns she had cooked for their movie night, a light breeze entered the window and caressed their skin. Alliyah was about to fall asleep when Lamar murmured:

“Do you think the Moon is lonely?”

“Of course not. She has all the stars shining right by her side, keeping her company.”

“But does she know that?”