Just a Touch

In "Just a Touch," Myla Melendez's world is shattered when she becomes the lone survivor of a tragic incident at the age of twenty-two. Overwhelmed by grief and loss, Myla finds solace in caring for her infant nephew, Donovan, who represents the last remaining connection to her beloved sister and mother.

As a young woman thrust into the role of a single parent, Myla grapples with the challenges of raising Donovan while navigating her own healing process. In the midst of her journey, she encounters a stranger who becomes an unexpected source of support and understanding. Together, they confront the depths of their shared trauma, finding strength in each other's presence.

TW: mature language, sex, bullying, mention of murder, mention of suicide
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"It's going to be okay, I promise," he whispered barely above a breath.

"How do you know?" I mumbled against his chest. He lifted my hair lightly, prompting me to look up at him, and he smiled.

"Because I believe that things happen for a reason, and I know you'll find strength even beyond what you think you have."

A frown creased my face. "But you don't know me."

"I don't need to. After everything that just happened, and seeing the way you look at that little boy, I can already tell you'll do whatever it takes for him. That makes you stronger than you realize." He tucked the same curl Donny had been playing with behind my ear and squeezed my arm gently.

"Let's get you home, mamas," he said with another smile, leading me out of the hospital. Yet, all my attention remained focused on the child in my arms.

Donovan Felix Melendez, I will survive for you. I will endure for my sister and mother.