Page 157 of Time Stops With You

“You want to talk about it?”

“Not really.”

I wouldn’t know where to start or how to explain when I don’t quite understand my own heart right now.

Just then, my phone buzzes.

It’s the PTA moms group.

I’m glad for a distraction and I push my emotions all the way down, glad to focus on something other than Cullen.

Cathleen: @Nardi, I’ve been trying to message you separately but you’re not answering.

Martha: Just block her from the group if she can’t be bothered.

Rachel: Don’t be rude, Martha. @Nardi, are you coming to the meeting today?

I groan and tilt my head back. “The meeting. I completely forgot.”

“What meeting?”

“The meeting for the PTA moms at Josiah’s school. The fair’s tomorrow.” I shake my head. “I’ll just tell them I can’t go.”

Mom wraps her fingers around my wrist. “I’m not here to interrupt your day-to-day life. Plus, I’d love an opportunity to see Josiah’s school.”

“Are you sure?”

“Very sure.” Mom smiles brightly. “I’m excited.”

Seeing mom’s happiness feels like stepping into the sunshine after a heavy rain.

I throw myself on her and give her another big hug. “I missed you, mom.”

“I missed you too.” She pats my back. “You’ve been taking care of Josiah for so long that it might seem like I only care about him. But you’re my baby too.” She feels my hair and then eases back. “What do you plan to do with your hair, Nardi? It needs some work.”

“Iknow.”

“Want me to braid it for you?”

I have a second of hesitation. I’m the only woman of color in the PTA moms meeting andnoonein that group wears braids. But I let the thought pass.

I’m not going to hide my culture or my hair to fit in. If I want Josiah to stand tall and be excellent even in rooms where he doesn’t look like anyone else, then I have to lead by example.

“Thanks, mama. How fast can you braid?”

Mom snaps pictures of Josiah’s school as if we’re taking a trip to a museum. She oohs and aahs over the neat, mowed lawn, the fancy foyer with the larger-than-life posters of scientists and engineers. She snaps pictures of the neat lockers, the hallway and even some of the kids in uniform.

“Mom,” I hiss, pushing her phone down, “you shouldn’t take pictures of people’s kids without permission.”

“Sorry. I’m just so excited to be here. I can’t believe my little Josiah is attending such a fancy school.”

I smirk, silently agreeing with her. It was an honor for me to see my brother put on that uniform for the first time too.

Mom experienced all those ‘firsts’ from pictures and videos. I’m glad that she’s finally got an opportunity to see where Josiah learns firsthand.

“The PTA meeting is held in here.” I point to the art room. “The leader of the PTA group sponsors the art program.”

“Oooh.” Mom nods, her eyes wide.

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