Chapter 16

Can I sleep here tonight? he asked softly, clutching a pillow. It feels lonely in my room.

I smiled, patting the space next to me. Of course.

He climbed into the bed, snuggling close. “Thanks, Luna. You’re the best.”

As his little breaths evened out in sleep, I realized just how much I enjoyed being here. Now I wish I had a baby brother to keep me company.

Joey and I had settled into a comfortable routine when his grandma arrived, a few days later. She was a cheerful, beautiful woman with soft gray hair that framed her warm, kind face.

As soon as Joey saw her, he ran up to her, throwing his arms around her and planting a kiss on her cheek. Grandma, you look so cool he said, his eyes sparkling with admiration.

She chuckled, stroking his hair. Oh, my little boy, I’ve missed you.

I walked up with the maid to help carry her bags inside. Joey, ever the polite host, introduced us. Grandma, this is Luna, my friend.

Grandma turned to me with a knowing smile. So, this is the famous Luna I’ve heard so much about. Finally, we met.

I blushed and laughed softly. Famous, huh?.

Oh, yes, she said, her eyes twinkling. Every time he calls, it’s ‘Luna this, Luna that.

Joey grinned shyly, and we all laughed.

After settling into her room, Grandma joined us for lunch. She had a way of making everyone feel at ease, filling the house with stories and laughter. Two days later she suggested we all head to the park for some fun. Joey was ecstatic, and soon we were out in the sun, playing games and enjoying ourselves.

That evening, as we were winding down, Mr. Daniels called. Joey answered the phone eagerly.

Hey, Dad How are you?

“I’m fine, Joey,” his father replied, though his voice sounded off. “How’s Luna?”

Joey handed me the phone. “She’s right here.

I took the phone, smiling. Hi, Mr. Daniels. Everything’s going well. Joey’s been great company.

Luna,” he said, his tone soft but strained. I really appreciate you helping out. Thank you for looking after my boy.

It’s nothing, Mr. Daniels. But are you okay? You sound worried.”

There was a long pause before he replied. I’m fine. Really. 

Joey grabbed the phone again. “Dad, you’re coming back tomorrow, right?

The line went quiet for a moment. Then, his voice, thick with emotion, came through. I love you, Joey. You’re the best kid in the whole world. Always remember that. Do take Care of grandma alright.

Dad? Joey called. But the call had already ended.

I stared at the phone, my heart sinking. Something wasn’t right.

Later that night, as Joey slept beside me, I couldn’t stop thinking about Mr. Daniels’ voice over the phone. It was filled with worry ,Fear, Regret. I got up and went to the window, staring into the quiet night. Wherever you are, I hope you’re safe, I whispered.

Before dawn, I woke to muffled cries coming from the living room. My heart raced as I got up and rushed out.

There, I found Grandma sitting on the couch, her face buried in her hands as she sobbed.

Grandma, what’s wrong?” I asked, kneeling beside her.

She looked up at me, her tear-streaked face breaking my heart. “He’s gone, Luna. 

The words hit me like a thunderbolt. Who’s gone? I asked, my voice shaking.

“My son,” she choked out. He’s gone.

I froze, the weight of her words sinking in as tears spilled down my cheeks. I couldn’t move, couldn’t speak. 

I tried to console Grandma, wrapping my arms around her as she sobbed uncontrollably. It’s going to be okay, I whispered, though tears streamed down my own face. We’ll get through this together. But her cries didn’t subside, and soon, I couldn’t hold back my own grief.

Just then, Joey walked into the room. His innocent face was etched with concern. Grandma? Luna? Why are you both crying?

We hastily wiped our tears, trying to appear calm. Oh, it’s nothing,dear Grandma said, her voice trembling.

But you’re both crying, Joey insisted, his brows furrowing. Please tell me what’s wrong.

Before we could respond, the sound of a car horn echoed from outside. Joey’s face lit up, and he exclaimed, Dad’s home He ran toward the door, his excitement spilling over.

Grandma and I exchanged worried glances before following him. Outside, Joey stopped short when he saw the car wasn’t his dad’s. A tall man stepped out, his expression serious as he approached us.

“Good morning, ma’am, the man said, nodding politely. I’m Antonio. I called earlier about Mr. Daniels.

Oh, right, Grandma said, her voice heavy. Come on in.

Joey tugged at the man’s sleeve. Hey, sir,do you know my dad? he asked eagerly.

Yes, I do, Antonio replied with a kind smile.

So where is he? He said he’d be back this morning, Joey pressed, his excitement undimmed.

Grandma knelt down and placed her hands on Joey’s small shoulders. Joey, dear, why don’t we all go inside first.

Joey nodded reluctantly, and we all moved into the house. Luna, take Joey upstairs, Grandma said softly.

Come on, Joey, I said, holding his hand gently.

We climbed the stairs in silence, his energy from earlier now replaced with quiet confusion. Once in the room, Joey sat on the edge of the bed, staring at the floor.

What’s wrong, Joey? I asked, sitting beside him.

He glanced up at me, his big eyes filled with worry. Dad told me he’d be back today. He said he’d be here before I woke up. But now, he’s not here.

My heart ached for him, and I pulled him into a hug. “Oh, my dear Joey,” I whispered, trying to hide the tears threatening to fall again. “I’m sure your dad loves you so much, and he’ll always want what’s best for you. Sometimes things happen that we don’t understand, but I’m here, and Grandma is here too. You’re not alone.

He nodded against my shoulder, his small arms wrapping around me tightly as if seeking comfort. I held him close, wishing I could shield him from the pain I feared was yet to come.

Joey was playing with his toys in the corner when Grandma walked up to me, her expression soft but tinged with sadness. Luna, dear, she began, her voice tender, I truly appreciate your support. You’ve been a really big help through all of this. You’re every family’s dream daughter.

I smiled weakly, unsure how to respond. Then she handed me an envelope. Here, take this. My son wanted me to give it to you. He would have done it himself, but he’s not here anymore.

I hesitated, taking the envelope with trembling hands. Opening it, I saw a considerable amount of money inside. My eyes widened. “Ma’am, I can’t accept this, " I said, trying to give it back. This is a hard time for your family. Please, you need this more than I do.