"The world is saddened at the loss of the King of Pop, Michael Jackson who passed on June 25th. Fans across the world are honoring his life through song, dance and celebration."
"The King of Pop has died. An unexpected and heartbreaking event."
"Dr. Conrad Murray has been charged with medical malpractice and will be forced to stand trial for the death of King of Pop, Michael Jackson."
Fans cried in the streets as the news of Michael's death was reported repeatedly. It was the main news throughout the world and the pain was felt by everyone. The BET Awards honored Michael with a musical tribute and called on one family member to honor him.
Janet stood in front of the mic as fans cheered for her and her brother. Her heart pounded with every emotion moving through her. She took a deep breath and began her speech. It was hard but she had to get through it. "To you, Michael is an icon. To us, Michael is family....."
~
Janet laid in the bed with tears all over her face and pillows. "Mommy, I brought you some food." She didn't know which one of her children was speaking to her.
"I'm not hungry, baby." They sat the tray down and sat next to her.
"Mom, you have to eat." She felt a hand wipe her face.
"I know. Just not right now, baby."
"Is she eating?"
"No. She's not hungry."
"Mommy." One of her daughters came into her view. "If you don't eat, you're not healthy. Please." Janet's heart was pulled by her daughter's words. She let out a breath.
"Okay, but just a little bit." Her daughter smiled and grabbed the plate. Janet took a few bits.
Halfway through eating, she was tired of eating and laid back down. "I'm done, baby."
"Okay. Thank you, mommy."
"You're welcome." A kiss was planted on her cheek.
"We'll come later, mommy."
"Okay."
~
Toni stood next to the bed as she tried to get her wife out of the bed. "Janet, sweetie. It's been weeks."
"Yeah, well."
"The princesses' birthday is coming up."
"I know." Janet started crying again. Since the girls were born on Michael's birthday, it was a bittersweet day.
"Baby, I'm sorry." Toni sat on the bed and pulled Janet into her. "I know it's a sad day, but it doesn't have to be. You can't stay in this place. It's not healthy."
"I know. I just.....can't move." Toni's heart broke for her wife. This is a situation they've never encountered. How does she help her?
~
6 years later
Toni
"Get y'all shoes on. Y'all gonna be late." I yelled to the children.
"Mama, where are my shoes?" asked Amelia.
"If you cleaned your room, you'd find them."
"Uhhh." She stomped away.
