31: HE DOESN'T DESERVE

Keisha

"Mom, how many times do I have to tell and remind you not to lie? It's okay not to be okay. It's okay to cry, Mom. I'm always here, okay? I know I'm young, but I'm not stupid enough to just watch you hurt and cry. I love you, Mom, and I always will. I can be your shoulder to cry on," he said, his voice filled with concern and maturity far beyond his years. I felt a pang of guilt for trying to hide my emotions from him, but also a wave of gratitude for his unwavering support.

Tears began to well up in my eyes again, despite my efforts to hold them back. How could I have been so blind to the impact my struggles were having on my son? He was just a child, yet here he was, trying to comfort me in my moment of weakness. I reached out and pulled him into a tight embrace, letting myself lean on him for support.

"I'm sorry, son. Please forgive Mom. I feel so weak. I am so grateful to have a son like you. I should be the one comforting you after what happened, but you're the one comfort