Page 33 of Set My Soul Ablaze

CAP:

All hands on deck.

I liked the message.

“I’m getting called into work. I love y’all. Keep your head up, Lannie.” I kissed Mama on the cheek before I headed up the stairs to get ready for work.

I could have handled the conversation better, but my emotions were high. I was by my sister’s side, taking her to appointments, buying diapers, raising her boys, and being her support system because the first nigga wanted nothing to do with the kids he lay down and made with her. Black women had the highest maternal mortality rate than any other race in the United States—I’d read up on all the statistics and had toadvocate for my sister frequently. The shit was stressful, and it might have been selfish, but I didn’t want to go through that again with her.

As I hopped off the truck, I let out a deep sigh. Since I came in, we’d gone on two calls, and my body needed a break. I took a shower and pulled on a clean uniform before I made my way to the lounge area to kick my feet up and rest.

My phone buzzed in my pocket. I couldn’t fight the smile as I read Mali’s name on the screen.

Mali :

Hey! Just wanted to check in. I haven’t heard from you today.

ME:

Hey beautiful. This morning was hectic in the Gilliam household. Then I was called in. We’ve had two calls in the last three hours and I’m exhausted.

Mali :

Oh no! I’m sorry to hear that. How much longer do you have left of the shift?

ME:

Hopefully Cap will let me out before dinner. Probably not, though. We’re understaffed this weekend.

Mali :

Aww man. I hate that for you. Would y’all like some company? I can whip y’all up a snack. Maybe make some homemade fish sandwiches? Anybody allergic to fish?

ME:

I don’t think anybody here is allergic to fish. I’d really love to see your face.

Mali :

I can’t wait to see you, too. I haven’t been able to get you out my head since our date.

ME:

I miss you too. Send me your grocery list. I’ll go get what you need so you don’t have to spend any money and can get to me sooner.

Mali :

Oop. Say less. I’ll let you know when I’m headed your wayyyyy

ME:

Perfect. Be safe and see you soon.

“Must be texting Mali. Look at the goofy grin on his face,” Juliet teased.

“Let him make it. Our boy is in love.” Bradlee patted my shoulder as he made kissing noises.

“Grow up.”