Page 34 of Love Overdose: St. Louis

He smiled and clapped once.

“I’ll take that as a yes.”

“He ate all his breakfast too,” Mom said.

“What did you give him?”

“Eggs, grits, sausage, and half a biscuit.”

I smirked. “I’m not surprised. He’s a growing boy.”

“My baby likes my cooking, too.”

“Of course he does. So do I.”

Malik smiled between us. Amelia pointed at him. “I think he agrees.”

I kissed him on his forehead, released his wheelchair brakes, and reached for his bag.

“Are you taking him straight to therapy?” Mom asked.

“Yes. His appointment is at eleven.”

“What are they working on today?”

“Trunk control and reaching, I think. His therapist said she might put him in the gait trainer if he tolerates it.”

“Send me videos.”

“I will.”

“I want to see how he’s progressing.”

“I know you do.”

Amelia bent and kissed Malik’s forehead. “Grandma loves you.”

He reached for her hand, and she gave it to him. The softness on her face reminded me Malik didn’t belong only to me. I carried most of his daily care, but my mother carried part of the love.

“Work hard for your therapist,” she told him. “And don’t give your mama too much trouble.”

He smiled.

“That smile means he plans to do whatever he wants,” I said.

“He gets that from you.”

I kissed my mother’s cheek before wheeling Malik toward the door.

“Frankie.”

I glanced back.

“I’m happy you enjoyed yourself.”

Her teasing had disappeared. Warmth settled into her expression.

“Thank you, Ma.”