Vass—who was sexually assaulted recently.
It’s too much for me
to deep it all at once.
Obi reaches for the jade pendant around his neck.
He rubs it between his thumb and index finger,
like a voice inside that green stone
will tell him what to say next.
“Erm, I’m sorry, Kai.” Obi apologizes
for what feels like the millionth time,
like a broken record or a boring song.
I remember Mr. Ndour’s classroom
and Ms. Sarpong reminding me to breathe.
I take a deep breath in and out again.
“Don’t worry. It’s fine,” I lie.
“Can we go back into the house
and meet your friends?” I ask.
The Devil You Know
MATT:I’m home.
KAI:Thanks for letting me know. I wish you would’ve let us call Vass’s mum to pick you up.
MATT:It’s all good. I couldn’t have her come just for me. Are you staying there much longer?
KAI:Yes, I think so. Vass is having fun. Obi and I are just chilling.
MATT:Cool. Enjoy the rest of your night then. And try not to communicate with any demons.
KAI:It’s too late for that. I’m already talking to you!
MATT:Do you think you and Obi will have sex tonight?
KAI:No, not tonight.
MATT:You sure? He was all over you before.
KAI:Yes, I’m sure. Why? Is that the real reason you left? You jealous?
MATT:You wish I was jealous! No, it was the tarot cards, like I said.
They freaked me out. Especially the one with the devil on.
That’s definitely against my religion.
