CHAPTER FIVE…

Tina just came back from for the police. She had barely talked to Bette because she had to go to school as fast as possible. The police said they would try to find the little gangsters but it wasn’t that easy. They had to be from the neighborhood. Mario knew one of the kids’ names: Christian Linton. The rest of the boys he knew from seeing but he didn’t know their names.  Mario was still limping a little but he was a little happier because he got a lollipop from one of the police officers. Tina was holding his hand all the way to the car.

“Mom, Tabby told me she is going to teach me some karate. You know, like karate kit! I’ll be so cool!” He said, smiling. Tina looked at her child and smiled.

“Yes, you will honey but remember, whatever Tabby teaches you, you can only use for self-defense okay?”

“Yes, Mom, I know. I won’t go hitting and kicking kids when it’s not necessary. I’m not Christian.” He said. Tina nodded.

“I know, son.” She said.

“Mmm, this lollipop is really good.” Mario said. Tina chuckled, they reached the car and got in. “Mom, why do they need to hit me? Why not someone else?”

Tina swallowed. “You are special, baby. There is nothing wrong with that but some people are so insecure they feel better when they can make other people feel bad. They aren’t just picking on you; they do that to other kids to. I know that doesn’t make it any better but it’s the truth.”

“I am glad I have Edward and Justine.” Mario said.

“You should be. They are very good friends to you.” Tina said.  

——–

Thursday – The Planet

Tina walked in and looked around. She saw a guy waving at her and she walked over.

“Hey, are you Max Sweeney?” Tina asked.

“Yes, I am. I’m assuming you are Tina Kennard.” Max said, still shy.

“I am.” Tina said and sat down across of Max. They both ordered drinks and a salad. They began to do some small talk just to get to know each other a little but then the serious stuff came.

“So, Bette told me your son is trans.” Max said.