Mama

Chapter Eight

July 2001:

Today, we laid Keri to rest. I couldn't even hold up because everything was hitting me all at once. Seeing his face, just extra pale, and seeing the peacefulness on his face, made me realize that's he's really gone.

I've been in my bedroom closet, seeing Keri's clothing and smelling his cologne on his suits, makes me emotional.

"Hey Tone," I heard someone say. I turn around to see my sister, Traci, with open arms. I run into her and cried my eyes out.

"It's alright, let it out." Traci said, soothing my back. I felt someone wrap their arms around my leg, and it was my five year old nephew, Kevin Jr.

"Titi, don't cry." Kevin said. I picked him up, and kissed his cheek. My other sisters came in, and they gave me a group hug.

"I'm sorry for being a burden; y'all can go home and enjoy your time with your family." I said, taking off my heels.

"Absolutely not, Toni. We're a family and we're going to be here for you and our nephew." Trina said.

"Girl, you better preach. We love you and we want you to be alright. I know Keri is watching over you and his son." Tamar said, smiling.

"Thanks guys, I love you." I smiled, caressing my stomach.
•••
It's been two weeks since the funeral, and now, it's time for me to get back to work. I haven't been writing new songs for myself, or singing, but I'm helping with the producing and songwriting.

I've been working with Tamar, who released her album 'Reflections', and it's an instant hit already. She's been working hard to make sure she gets to the top.

I've been growing, physically and I love every moment of this pregnancy. Denim loves when I sing to him, and loves when I place headphones on my stomach, especially to his father's music. I've gained eleven pounds, and I'm good.

Aaliyah is stopping by, to ask me if I'm going to the Bahamas with her, even though I could use the trip, but something in my spirit feels like something is going to happen, but I won't say anything.

"Toni, so are you going with me or not?" Aaliyah asked, while eating grapes. I sighed and did a silent prayer, to myself.

God give me an answer.

"Alright, I'll go." I said, in hesitation.