Chapter Forty-one

Doni left before I woke up. I wasn't upset because I was in so much pain the meds must've knocked my ass out. Turning over to face the window, I notice a note on the nightstand.

Hey baby,

I had an early mtg with coach. I didn't have the heart to wake you up. I left you a bottle of water to take with your pain pills. I'll call you later.

Doni xo

The whole weekend came and went like a blur. Doni and I spoke on the phone several times a day, and one call at night before going to bed. Talking to him puts me at ease, allowing me to sleep without the nightmares.

He has been making amends with his mom since the incident. They had a moment at the hospital while I was recovering which makes me so happy. Growing up, I remember how much he adored his mom. I'd hate for him to lose that connection because of a mistake from the past—a mistake I now realize was something a mother would do to protect her child.

Josiah and I spent a lot of time in the hospital with Mom. There haven't been any changes. Paloma has been bringing aroz con pollo, pork chops, and limber de coco. One of Mom's favorite treats she would make when we were kids during the summer months.

With missing work and school due to the incident, I've been spending more time with my little girl. Even though I can't carry her, it doesn't stop me from holding her in my lap. I miss her more when she's not with me.

There's a knock at my door.

"Come in," I holler as I attempt to paint my toenails, ignoring the pain in my gut jamming to Romeo Santos.

Just fight through the pain, Sadie. Need to have pretty toes. Tia used to say, "Just because it's winter, doesn't mean you stop keeping your toes pretty, just like not shaving your legs."

"Hey Sis." Josiah crosses his arms across his chest as he leans against the door frame. "Just checking to see if you need anything. I'm going to head over to Hector's and help him with a few things."

"Legal things, I hope?" I give him a pointed look.

He sighs which means he's avoiding the question. It's all the answer I need.

God. He's been a free man for over a month, fought against Dad, and now he's going back to his old ways.

"I'm not going to fight with you, Sade."

"I'm not fighting." I avoid him as I continue to paint my toes a deep red color.

"Sade."

"Josiah," I echo.

He sighs in frustration.

"Do you want me to pick you up something to eat?"

"No. I'll be ok. Not hungry."

"You gotta eat, Sade."

"Yes, sir." I salute him, rolling my eyes. I'm being a bitch, but he makes me so angry, and I worry about him.

"Ok, well, you have my number. Text me if you need anything. And I mean anything. Don't go anywhere and stay in the house. I have a few guys watching the place." His tone is sincere but laced with concern.

Looking up at Josiah, he looks torn and exhausted. He has always been the strong one. The pillar holding this family together. Such a burden to carry. A burden he should have never had to bear in the first place.

"Ok, I will. Be careful, ok?" I ask softly.

The worry lines on his face disappear and he smiles from ear to ear. "Yeah, Sis. I will. Love you."

"Love you."