Truce of the Matter

by Charity Shane'

“My momma is gone,” I begin and Taj actually screams. Others gasp and sigh loudly. Over the concert of sorrow, I continue. “It happened around noon and…and…” Their reactions are breaking me, the cries and the tears. I have to close my eyes to continue. “Tomorrow, I won’t be here. I have to make arrangements. As soon as they are final, I’ll let you know.” Taj rushes to me first and grabs me. She practically smothers me as she sobs. “I’m so…oh God. So sorry,” she cries, words barely audible. More bodies join and I end up sandwiched between my grieving team. Mack’s booming but soothing voice breaks it up and they all back away except Taj. “Whatever you need,” she whispers before finally releasing me. When she does, Mack walks over. “We got this. You, Pops, and Daija ain’t got to worry about shit. I’ll open tomorrow.” “Thanks,” is all I can muster because I feel a wave of emotion creeping up from my belly. I’m minutes from breaking down and I can’t do that here, in this kitchen, in front of my team.

I’m real deal in my feelings and crying right now😭😭 I understand the pain of losing your mother all to well😭😭