Page 157 of The Black Flamingo

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“Yeah, of course, you were always together.”

He opens his arms and hugs Daisy

and I’m jealous that she got to hug him first.

I blurt out without thinking, “CanIget a hug?”

He smiles. “I’ve got a better idea—

how about a dance?” He winks.

“Why not give this brother a chance?”

I hand Daisy my rum and Coke

and take Kieran’s hand.

He leads me to the dance floor.

Beyoncé’s “Sweet Dreams” is playing now.

Dancing with Kieran is better than a dream.

He puts his hands on my waist

and pulls me toward him.

He bends both his legs to bring his groin

in line with mine

and we sway side to side,

finding a mutual rhythm.

His right hand leaves my waist

and then it’s stroking the side of my face.

I lean my head into his hand.

I once saw him knock someone out

with this hand. He lifts my chin

and he leans in and kisses me,

so softly, no tongues. Just a peck.

Then he leans back and smiles.

Puts his right hand on my waist again.

Kieran from school.

Kieran who I watched playing soccer

in PE and at lunchtime.

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