A Bánh Mì for Two

by Trinity Nguyen

It’s a constant tug-of-war within me: being Vietnamese, but not really … and being American, but not really. Will I fit in—ever?

Slowly, she inches her arm around my waist, holding on to me firmly. For someone so bouncy and seemingly brave, she’s still shy—like me.

“AP US History is this core requirement for ‘gifted’ American kids to learn about American propaganda.

“I … never know what to talk about with my mom. All I know how to do is work hard, be there for her, and hope that’s enough.”

She nods to Vivi and me before speaking the phrase that all Vietnamese mothers use interchangeably with I love you. “Have you eaten?”