Page 85 of Love Overdose: St. Louis

Malik’s hand lifted from the armrest. I glanced at Frankie.

“That means yes,” she said.

I moved the chair closer but left enough space between us so that Malik wouldn’t feel crowded. I removed the tissue paper and took out a Spider-Man figure. His head turned as he followed it.

“I was told Spider-Man was one of your favorites.”

Malik’s smile returned.

“Was that good information?”

He reached for the figure, and I placed it carefully in his hand. His fingers closed around part of its body while the rest rested against his palm.

“He likes it,” Frankie said.

Malik raised the toy and looked at his mother.

“What do you say?” she asked automatically, then caught herself. “Show Elijah thank you.”

Malik’s gaze returned to me. He brought his hand to his chest and moved it outward. I had seen patients communicate through signs, boards, eye movements, and assistive devices. None of those methods made the message less complete.

“You’re welcome.”

Frankie’s shoulders relaxed. I hadn’t realized how tightly she had been holding them until they lowered. Amelia noticed too. Her attention moved from her daughter to me before she headed toward the kitchen.

“I have peach cobbler in the oven.”

“We just ate,” Frankie said.

“That’s alright. You can have a little now and take the rest home.”

Malik turned back toward the television. Spider-Man filled the screen, swinging between buildings while music rose through the room.

I pointed toward the television. “Is this the one where he fights the man made of electricity?”

Malik looked at me.

“No?” I asked.

His mouth twitched.

“The one with the giant lizard?”

His brows rose, and he looked back at the screen.

“I may need help.”

Frankie settled onto the sofa beside him. “He knows every movie.”

“Then I’ve found the expert.”

Malik raised the figure again and pointed it toward the television.

“The same Spider-Man?”

He clapped once.

“I understand.”