Page 87 of More Than Chemical
Their unexpected show of love made the tension in my muscles release. I should have told them the truth about my dad long ago.
“Thank you,” I said.
“You’re welcome,” Priya said.
“We’re here for you, Ade.” Emma smiled.
Together, we went into the locker room and changed back into our street clothes.
“How do you think your mom is holding up?” Priya asked.
I winced. That same thought had been popping into my brain all day. “Not sure. I’ll text her.”
Priya and Emma left to get to their next classes, and I sat on a cushioned seat in the lobby, staring at the ceiling.
I pulled out my phone and sent a text.
Hi, Mom. How’s the trial?
I didn’t know how long it would take her to respond, or if she’d respond at all, but right now it was really important to me that she got my message.
I waited and…nothing. So, I turned off the screen and put the phone in my back pocket.
When I got back to the dorm and was walking down the hallway to my room, my phone dinged.
MOM
Jury selection today and probably the rest of tomorrow.
How are you doing?
MOM
It’s hard.
Then came a slight moment of hesitation. I knew what I needed to ask her. I knew that it was what I should do, what I needed to do. I had to get rid of this fear. It was all-consuming.
Do you want me to come sit with you?
MOM
I thought you were a hard no.
My gut squeezed.
I’ll come.
MOM
Oh, sweetie. You don’t have to. Your dad and I will survive.
Don’t talk me out of it. I’ll come tomorrow.
MOM
Wednesday morning would be better. After the jury is selected.
We’ll pick you up.
