Reborn as Miles Morales with a Custom Stand

Aftermath

It had been almost a week since Jefferson's death, and Deon could feel the toll it was taking on his mother. Rio was trying to stay strong, but he could see her faltering. One evening, after a long day, Deon found her sitting at the kitchen table, staring blankly at an old photo of Jefferson. Without a word, Deon sat beside her and pulled her into a hug.

"It's okay to not be okay, Mom," he whispered, feeling her tears soak into his shoulder. They stayed like that for what felt like hours, the weight of their grief hanging heavy in the air.

Over the next few days, Deon made a point of being there for her more than ever. He cooked, cleaned, and made sure they spent time together, even if it was just watching old movies on the couch. On some nights, they fell asleep there, wrapped in a shared blanket, finding comfort in each other's presence.

Phin and Hailey also became critical sources of support during this time. Phin would check in on Deon regularly, helping him with small projects to keep his mind occupied. Hailey, with her quiet strength, taught Deon to find solace in moments of peace.

As Deon and Rio navigated their grief, their bond only grew stronger. Every morning, Deon made it a point to ask his mom about her day, encouraging her to open up, even if just a little. They established new routines—breakfast together, visits to Jefferson's memorial every Sunday, and quiet evenings where they would share moments of reflection.

One evening, Deon suggested something different. "Mom, how about a bath? You've been working hard all day." It was a small gesture, but it became a ritual. Deon would prepare the bath for her, making sure she had everything she needed to relax.

Every night, as Deon tucked his mom into bed or stayed up late talking with her, he felt a renewed sense of purpose. Jefferson's death had left a void, but Deon was determined to honor his father's legacy by being there for his family.