The Tradition

Chapter Three

"Open it, open it!" Accelyn squeals with delight. I laugh and take a seat beside her, Mama, and Papa. It's been a week since I sent the form and we have belatedly received the results. I take a deep breath and tear open the envelope. I read the letter sealed inside, out loud.

"Dear Alsephina Rose, The members of the Tradition council are honored to tell you that you've been selected to participate in the Tradition. Congratulations! The Tradition will begin a week from today. Please arrive promptly at 10 am in front of the council building. We're eager to meet you."

I widen my eyes and my mouth drops open. Accelyn starts happily jumping up and down. Mama and Papa smile brightly.

"We knew you could do it, sweetheart," Mama says, reaching to hold me. I wrap my arms around her.

Papa and Accelyn join us and we all sit together, joyfully laughing.

Mama stands up. "Come on, everyone. Let's have some lunch," she says, walking towards the kitchen. We follow Mama and take a seat at the dinner table. I feel ambivalent. I'm very exhilarated that I'll be participating in the Tradition, but on the other hand I'm afraid. Afraid to let my family down. Mama places a spoonful of rice and peas in front of me. My eyes drop down to my feet. This is why I need to win. I must do something for my family. This chance is a blessing from God. An opportunity to let my family lead a normal life. I mustn't act cowardly.

After lunch, Accelyn accelyn begs me to play a game with her. I eventually cave and I follow her outside. We sit on the cool grass and hunt for petite yellow flowers. I watch Accelyn dig through the stalks of grass with her tiny hands, telling myself I have to succeed, for her sake.

"Alsephina!" someone calls.

I turn my head around to see my neighbor, Asher.

"Hey, Asher! How are you?" I ask, standing up and walking towards her.

She smiles. "I'm fine. By the way, did you get selected for the Tradition?"

I forge a smile. "Yes, how about you?"

She gasps. "Oh my god, Alsephina. That's great! I'm proud of you and no, I didn't get in."

I place a hand on her shoulder. "Thanks, and don't worry. I promise you'll get in next time."

She shrugs and waves goodbye. I wave back and walk over to Accelyn. She is very obviously determined to find a yellow flower, now digging vigorously at the ground. I sit beside her and tilt my head up towards the blue sky. The clouds form magnificent shapes in all sizes. I take in a long breath. I'll be ok.

Accelyn decides to force me to let her sleep with me tonight. She brings her blanket and her small pillow to my bed. I help her climb up and she flops down on her back.

"Be careful. Your lungs are delicate," I warn her.

"I know, I know," she grumbles, turning on her side to face away from me. I sigh and delicately place a hand on her shoulder.

"Good night, baby," I whisper.

"Good night," Accelyn responds.

I close my eyes and listen to Accelyn's steady breathing. In and out. The noise pacifies me as I fall into a deep, dreamless sleep.