“I could really use you right now, Rae,” Morgan whispered. She sat Indian-style on the grass facing her sister’s headstone. “It feels like I’m in trouble, and I don’t know how to get out of it this time. I can’t ask Ethic for help. I can’t ask anyone.”

“Mommy, who are you talking to?” Yara signed.

Morgan reached out to touch the stone. “Your auntie Raven. She’s sleeping here, baby,” Morgan signed back.

“When will she wake up?” Messari signed.

“She can’t, baby boy,” Morgan whispered. The tear that slid down her cheek nestled in the corner of her mouth. Messari turned in her lap and wiped it away as Yara snuggled closer.

“Like Sleeping Beauty, Mommy?” Yara asked.

“Exactly like that,” Morgan signed.

The peace she found at the cemetery was odd. Most would be rushing to leave, but Morgan felt at home. The people who shared her last name were there. An entire tribe awaited her.

“Mo?”

Morgan turned her neck to find Alani navigating across the lawn.

“La La!” Messari yelled in excitement as he scrambled to his feet and ran in her direction. Yara wasn’t far behind. Morgan laughed as Alani bent down, going to her knees to accept their hugs.

“Be careful,” Morgan called after her kids as they swarmed Alani.

“Is he still cooking?” Messari asked impatiently, turning his head to the side as he pressed his ear to Alani’s belly.

She laughed, and Morgan smiled.

“Yup. He’s still in there holding tight. He’ll be here soon, and then he’s all yours to love on,” Alani said, tapping his little button nose.

“Mine too?” Yara signed.

“Yours too, Yolly Pop,” Alani confirmed.

Morgan wondered if Raven would have been this good with her kids. Would they have loved her as much as they loved Alani? Alani was a beautiful addition to their lives. She often wondered if Raven would fill the shoes well or would she fail the way Morgan was failing at life. Atkins girls seemed to be cursed.

Alani climbed to her feet and then made her way to Morgan. “Want some company, or maybe we should go grab a bite to eat somewhere?”

“Is it awkward for you if I say I want to stay here?” Morgan asked, staring up over a crinkled brow as she shielded her eyes from the sun.

“Not at all. Me and Raven have discussions about Ethic’s ass once a week,” Alani responded. She took a seat, setting her purse next to her and claiming Yara as Morgan pulled her son into her lap.

“Wow, really?”

“Really, Mo,” Alani confirmed. “It’s important to me to honor her for Eazy, for you.” She paused. “And for him. She’s a part of him. I love every part.”