The Cure for the Healer

Chapter 4

A Decent Man

(Nicole)

I close and lock the door behind Liam and head to the bathroom. Great, there’s a rainfall shower. I’ve always wanted to try one, but never have. It’s too hard to keep my flat-ironed hair straight. Well, I guess I’m taking a bath. I turn on the water and take off my clothes. Looking in the mirror I sigh, “Crap, I look like someone beat me with a roll of quarters. I’ve cried too much today.”

I’ve lost a lot too, my support, my dignity, my faith in my people. My mother and father made sure we grew up to be proud of our Blackness, but here I am, ashamed of how my people constantly reject my child. He’s a part of me, and that should be enough.

I know what Liam wants to talk about. He wants me to follow him off somewhere. My head is telling me to run away from him. My heart is telling me he’s a decent man. My gut? Well, my gut is telling me that he’s my best option for keeping my son safe. I turn off the water and step into the tub.

Liam is tall and built like a god—dark brown hair, deep blue eyes. He’s gorgeous, more than gorgeous. He’s strong, prepared, and calculating. Yet, it’s clear that he’s kind and gentle. Five years ago, I would have met him, fallen in love with him, and followed him anywhere. Things are different now. It hurts my heart that my people haven’t found a better way. The oppressed oppressing the oppressor, never works. I learned that from one of my favorite philosophers. It’s too dangerous to be with Liam. “Oh, Renee. I wish you were here to tell me what to do.”

I really need my big sister.

I spend a few more minutes in the bath before drying off and heading into the bedroom to throw on some pajamas. Unfortunately, I only had room for something small, so I packed a set with shorts and a cami. I cannot go in there wearing this. Please let there be a robe in this closet. I walk over to the closet and open it. “Yes!”

Okay, time to face the music.