Page 241 of When Love Takes Root

Kayden’s expression softened. “For real, though. I’m proud of you. Call me if you need anything. Money, rides, somebody embarrassed, whatever.”

Maya blinked. “Somebody embarrassed?”

“I’m versatile.”

Celeste leaned toward me. “That means he’s still threatening people.”

“I heard it.”

Kayden pointed across the table. “I said whatever.”

When it was my turn, I stood and looked at Maya.

“You already know I’m proud of you.” She nodded, holding back tears. “But I want you to remember something when Langston gets hard. A full scholarship doesn’t mean you have to be perfect. Being gifted doesn’t mean you can’t ask for help. And leaving home doesn’t mean you have to figure everything out alone.” Her mouth trembled. “You have roots here. Deep ones. Strong enough to let you grow without making you afraid of how far your branches reach.”

Celeste covered her mouth.

Maya nodded slowly.

“I love you, Pop Siah.”

“I love you too, baby girl.”

Skye raised her glass of sparkling cider.

“To Maya being Howard—I mean Langston famous!”

Zuri groaned. “Wrong universe.”

Nobody understood why that made Skye laugh so hard.

The rest of us laughed anyway.

By the time dessert was served, everybody had cried except Kayden, who denied crying so aggressively nobody believed him.

I sat back and watched it all.

My wife laughing with our children.

My mother speaking with Celeste like they had known each other for decades.

Kayden arguing with Uncle Zeke about Hampton Heights football.

JJ helping Maya organize her gifts.

Zuri and Skye already planning the dorm move like the university had appointed them.

The babies shifted beneath Celeste’s dress, still growing while another child prepared to leave home.

Roots and branches.

Holding and releasing.

Love had taught me both.

The house had finally grown quiet.

Not silent. Our family would never be silent.