Never Gonna Be Wifey Page 20

  “Come on, baby; let’s go home. He will always have a part of you in his heart and vice versa. Let’s go home.”

  I collapsed into Jeanette’s arms. My heart was broken, and I needed her strength.

  “Ma! My baby is gone. He’s gone,” I cried.

  “Baby girl, he not gone. He only went on a long vacation. You didn’t have to bury him.” She rubbed my back.

  “Listen, Ma, I know I never told you, but you’re my rock. I don’t know where I would be without you right now. I love you.”

  “Baby girl, I love you too.” She took my hand in hers, and we walked out into the brisk air.

  * * *

  “Sierra, cut the television on. Hurry.”

  My heart jumped; it couldn’t be anything good.

  “The Atlanta Police Department gave us this sketch earlier. This person is considered a person of interest in the murder of Dwayne McKenzie. If you recognize this person or have any information about his whereabouts, please contact the APD. Do not approach him, as he is considered dangerous and might be armed,” the news reporter said. A sketch of a man was posted on the screen, along with a number to call Crime Stoppers.

  Jeanette walked into the den and looked at me. No words were needed as we both recognized the picture.

  “God, please protect my baby,” I whispered.

  “I’m going to bed. Long day.” I cut off the television and walked upstairs.

  Will it ever end, or will this be another saga of heartbreak and hurt? I thought as I dozed off.

  The next day I got up out of bed. I wasn’t able to sleep all night. My mind was racing. The image of my son’s picture plastered across the television screen was still fresh in my mind. I was eagerly waiting on Azir to call me. He promised to call soon as he got a cell phone. I needed to hear his voice, to make sure my child got there safely. “Dear God, please wrap your hand around my baby. Please God,” I prayed. I’ve prayed many times, but this prayer was one that came from the depths of my soul. I knew that I might not see my child ever again, and as much as my heart was breaking behind it, I can’t deal with him getting killed or going to prison for life.

  This was the risk that I was willing to take. I got up off my knees and sat on the bed. A mother’s love is the most powerful, and I would die or kill for my only child. Wherever he is, I pray God protects him. “Alijah, baby, our boy needs us more than ever. If you around, please protect him, ’cause they out to get him the same way they did you.”

  I felt a tear drop from my eye.

  “I love you, Azir.”