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“I do. However, regardless of what she does, it will always be you doing the work. She will be your guide, but you must trust in yourself, Emily.”
I let out a long breath. “Anything else?”
“No.”
“But, you know what’s going to happen?”
“I have theories.”
“Will Kaz, Max, and my boys be safe?”
“Always.”
“Alright then. Tell me about the boys. How are they doing?”
I could almost hear the smile in Baba’s voice as she replied, “Ah, Emily. Little Emilio and Paolo are having quite the adventure in New Orleans.”
I smirked. “When you kidnapped my babies, where did you take them?”
She chuckled. “I cannot kidnap children that are mine.”
I deepened my smirk.
“We spent the day in the French Quarter. Especially Jackson Square. Paolo was entirely enamored with the musicians playing jazz on the corner. He had so much fun, running up to them with dollars and putting the money in their hats. We also ate several sugary beignets that I am sure were very healthy for him.”
I laughed softly. “I’m sure they were so healthy.”
“We returned, and I gave them a bath. Now they are both asleep in the same room while Harlem stands guard in the doorway.”
A pang of longing surged through me. “Sounds like they’re enjoying the city.”
“They are.”
“Do not worry about them while you heal. This is why I came. Baba is here for the babies.”
I placed my view back on Max.
The glow of his blunt brightened. Then, he took one final, long drag before stubbing it out against the tree and heading my way.
Baba spoke, “And never forget that Paolo and Emilio are strong, just like their mother. They will be okay.”
A knot tightened in my chest. “And. . .you don’t have any doubt that I will truly heal here?”
“You are a warrior, a mother, a lover, a fierce friend, and most important. . .you are the Mouse.”
Tension gathered in my shoulders.
“You never lose, Emily. Why would you lose this time?” Her words wrapped around me like a comforting blanket.
I swallowed. “Thank you, Baba.”
“You are welcome.” Her voice shifted to tense. “And. . .tell Max not to eat the gumbo tonight. No matter how good it smells.”
“Why not?”
“Just tell him.”
“What about me?”
