I returned to my room and lay on the bed for a while , my mind swirling with worries . Seeking comfort, I decided to read some assuring words from the Bible , only to realized I left it in Grandma's room . I was hesitant to go at first , but wanting to check up on her , I got up to retrieve it .
As I approached her door , I heard faint whispers from within .I paused , my hand resting on the doorknob , a strange sense of unease washing over me .
" I think it's time for you to take me home now , my GOD ," Grandma Ama murmured. Her words were soft , almost inaudible, but each word struck my heart . " Anaya is a brave girl , and I plead with you to protect her … not that I need to ask . I know you will."
My heart skipped a beat as I stood frozen , tears stinging the corner of my eyes . I wanted to badly enter the room but I was taught not to distract people who are praying .
"She's been through so much because her gender ," Grandma Ama continued, her raspy voice breaking . " And I didn't have the heart to tell her the truth about her parents ….. so I lied . But since I'm coming to you , I place everything into your hands . Help her Father."
I shivered as her words hung in the air , laden with a heaviness I couldn't comprehend . For a moment , silence settled over the room like a thick blanket, suffocating the still .
Summoning courage, I slowly turned the doorknob and stepped inside. Grandma Ama knelt on the floor, holding the chair for support , her fail body bowed in prayer , with her head lowered .
The room seemed to spin around me as I steadied my steps . My legs trembled as I stepped closer . " Grandma ?" I whispered, my voice barely audible , but what followed was silence .
I knelt beside her , taking her weathered hands into mine . The warmth of her touch was fading , my heart tightened, overwhelmed with grief . I stared at her peaceful face , silently willing her to open her eyes , to smile at me one more time.
" Grandma Ama please don't leave me . I need you ," I whispered, my voice breaking . I sniffed ,a lump rising in my throat . I fought to hold back my sobs , but it was futile .I yelled no ! no ! no! You can't leave me here you can't
I clung to her body , refusing to let go .