Hoops & Harmonies

63.

Monica and Angel gathered a few things to bring to Rodney's new apartment. Monica had packed a couple of boxes full of home essentials, wanting to help him feel more settled. Rodney was independent, but she couldn't help the tug of her motherly instincts, wanting to make sure he had everything he needed. Angel watched her with a smile, appreciating Monica's nurturing side.

"You sure we aren't bringing too much?" Angel teased as she stacked the boxes in the car.

"I just want him to be comfortable," Monica replied, double-checking a list she had made of items to bring. "It's his first apartment. I remember what that was like. We can't have him missing anything."

Angel chuckled, shaking her head as they climbed into the car. "He's going to be fine. He's been talking about this move forever. But I know he'll appreciate the extra touches from his mom."

Monica smiled, grateful for Angel's steady reassurance. "You're right. I just can't believe my baby boy is officially out on his own."

As they pulled up to Rodney's apartment complex, Monica felt a mix of pride and nostalgia. Rodney greeted them at the door, his face lighting up when he saw them.

"Hey, ladies! Come on in," Rodney said, stepping aside to let them enter.

Monica's heart swelled as she walked into the space. It was a modest, one-bedroom apartment, but it was all his. She could see pieces of him everywhere—from his framed basketball jersey hanging on the wall to the keyboard set up in the corner. Rodney had already made it feel like home.

"This place is nice, Rodney," Angel said, looking around. "You did a good job with the layout."

"Thanks. I've been adding little things here and there, but I could definitely use Mom's decorating expertise," Rodney replied with a grin.

Monica beamed, excited to lend a hand. "Well, we brought a few things to help you out. Where do you want to start?"

For the next few hours, the three of them worked together, hanging pictures, rearranging furniture, and adding finishing touches to make the space feel more lived in. Monica couldn't resist the urge to organize the kitchen cabinets, making sure everything had its place.

As they hung the last picture in the living room, Rodney stood back, admiring their work. "This feels good. Thanks for helping me, y'all."

Monica walked over and wrapped him in a tight hug. "Anything for you, baby. I'm so proud of you. You've made this place your own."

Rodney hugged her back, a smile tugging at the corners of his mouth. "I wouldn't be here without you, Mom. I'll never forget that."

Angel watched the scene unfold, her heart warm as she saw the connection between them. She knew how much Rodney's independence meant to him, but she also understood how important it was for Monica to be part of this new chapter in his life.

After saying their goodbyes, Monica and Angel headed back home, but their day wasn't over yet. In a few hours, they'd be boarding a flight to Atlanta, with Laiyah bouncing with excitement at the prospect of seeing her brother Melo play basketball and visiting family.

That evening, as they arrived at the airport, Monica kept a close eye on Laiyah, who was practically buzzing with excitement.

"Mommy, do you think Uncle Tez will be there when we land?" Laiyah asked, her eyes wide with anticipation.

"I'm sure he will, baby," Monica replied, smiling. "You know your uncle never misses a chance to see you."

Angel, holding their carry-on, chimed in. "And Nana and Papa are already getting everything ready for us. You're going to be spoiled rotten while we're there."