With the Fire on High by Elizabeth Acevedo
Side by Side
“Hey, Auntie Jordyn.” Malachi leans down to hug a little woman in a black collared shirt and slacks. The woman has a walkie-talkie in one hand, which she pats against Malachi’s back when he bends down to hug her. She still has her arm around his waist when she turns to the group. He points at each of us in turn. “Let me introduce you to Angelica and Laura. And that’s Emoni. And the little queen in the stroller is Emma.”
Auntie Jordyn looks up at him with a gruff expression. “Boy, what did I tell you about pointing at people? Just because your momma isn’t here doesn’t mean you forget what she’s taught you!” But as quick as she frowned she’s smiling and letting Malachi go. “And this little one, well, isn’t she precious? I’m glad these tickets could go to good use. With my kids out the house so long, my complimentary tickets usually go unused. I’m glad this year someone who can actually appreciate it will be watching.” She pats Malachi on the cheek and I instantly love her. Malachi’s smile is clearly inherited from his mom’s side because the woman looks just as happy and sweet as he does when he smiles.
“Thank you, ma’am. We’re really looking forward to it,” I say.
She gives me a look that I don’t know how to read. “Malachi talks about you all the time. I’m glad to finally meet you.”
I don’t look at Malachi as I nod.
“Well, you all go on in. I have some paperwork to do in my office, so I won’t be able to join you. But make sure you enjoy!” We enter through one of the first-floor gates and look for the letter-and-number combination that indicates our row. As I replay the conversation something twists in my stomach. Malachi talks about me to his aunt?
Before I know it, my thoughts are absorbed in the music, the colorful lights, the characters in their large costumes as they skate and twirl and jump in the air. I don’t have any words except to say it’s magical. And I’m just as into it as Babygirl. She bounces along in my lap and Angelica’s lap, clapping and pointing. I wish I could do this for her more often, give her these kinds of adventures.
Malachi leans over, his breath warm on my ear. “Smile, Santi. This is the greatest show on earth.”
“You got the wrong show, homie. I think that saying was for a circus show, not Disney.”
“I wasn’t talking about what’s happening over there,” Malachi says, tugging on one of my curls. “I was talking about what’s happening right here.” He links his fingers with mine, and I’m glad Babygirl is in Angelica’s lap, bouncing and bucking. I’m so glad my hand is free so it can be inside of Malachi’s.
“You’re ridiculous,” I say, laughing. “What does that even mean?”
Malachi doesn’t answer. And I don’t pull my hand from his for the rest of the show.