Chapter Twenty-Six Part Two
Just Two Moms Joining Forces
Celeste Ackerman
Ifind a quiet corner of the backyard to sit so we can have a conversation about my boy—blood or not, Ender will always be one of mine.
“It’s so nice to finally meet you, Celeste.” Ender speaks so highly of her, and I can see why.
“Ender has said such nice things about you, Layla.” I’m not jealous at all. “And Gabe—Ender is just head over heels for him, and that means a lot.”
Layla’s smile falters for a second. “I know how hard it is for him to trust people.” Silence falls between us for a moment, and knowing that Ender has shared more about his past with her since she met him at Camp North End comforts me. “I know I’m biased, but Gabe will be good for him.”
“I hope so.” I hesitate, but the conversation needs to happen. “I know you’ve become close with him.”
“Yes, we have. We’ve got some things in common.”
When I smile and slowly nod, I can tell she understands just how much Ender has told me. “Nowadays, Ender’s situation is not all that unique.”
“But Ender is.” Layla says, and I feel an affinity toward her just for knowing him so well, so quickly.
“Exactly.” I soften my tone, mother to mother. “I just ask that if there ever comes a time…don’t just disappear.”
“I wouldn’t even think of it.” She leans forward in her chair with a smile. “Ender needs all the support he can get, and you’ve done an incredible job already. I only hope I can help him in the slightest bit by being his friend.”
Ender told me she was a special woman—I can see why. “Thank you, Layla.”
She clasps my hand in hers. “I hope we can become friends, too.”
“I would love that.”