Overcome (editing)

Chapter Five

The Greatest trap of our life is not success, popularity or power, but rejection.

- Henri Nouwen

Ever since Mr. Buntly strange visit my mom has changed. She seemed more at ease and happier. She no longer went out at nights; she spends the time reading bedtime stories with the boys and having girls talk with me. It felt good to have my mom again, and I was having so much fun with her that I didn't even realize I hadnt heard from Kyle in six days. That wasn't normal, and I began to worry.

I called his phone for the entire day and sent a million text messages but there was no response. I haven't been at school because mom had asked me to stay home for a few days, she said she missed us and that I could understand because even though she was physically here she was never here emotionally or even mentally, and we missed her just as badly as she missed us.

But today was the day before my birthday and I missed my best friend. I worry he was ill or mad at me which I couldn't figure out why he would be.

I put on my grey hoodie jacket and head down the stairs, I was going to go by his house and ask his mom if everything was OK.

Just as I reach the door to exit, I pulled by hair up in a ponytail and open the door.

"Where are you going honey"? Mom asked.

"To Kyle's".... I answered." It's weird I haven't seen him in days"!

Rihanna, boys are complex creatures at times and Kyle is a teenager, he probably needs some space and I for one recommend it, she said.

But why!!?! Why would he suddenly need space from me, what did I do???

I asked, desperately seeking an explanation that would give me some sort of understanding for this strange behavior.

She stared at me before answering, her expression hardening within the process.

I think it's for the best, plus after tomorrow things will change for you and I need you to be focused and strong.

What do you mean momma? I asked.

Instead of answering my question she stated instead: "Just remember our conversation about sacrifices and give Kyle some space. she said as she stroked my face."

Oh my! I almost forgot!!!! Mr. Buntly wants us to visit his house tomorrow, just you and I .... she added excitingly but if she was then she would be the only one and I made it quite known to her when I said:

Why, I don't know if I like him mom ... for a moment she looked lost and hurt and I immediately regretted stating my sentiments.

No no no mom I'm sorry, forget what I said please I will go with you, I will visit Mr. Buntly tomorrow if It's so important to you mom I will go .... I plead, silently praying I was not losing my mom again.

But she turned to me smiling sweetly instead and said:

It's not just important to me Rihanna, its important to us.