Maya

I kick the flat tire before teetering on my heels. My arms flail, but I catch my balance before I fall flat on my ass and drop the Tupperware of cocadas I spent a majority of last night making for Abby’s graduation event.

“Is everything okay, Mommy?”

I take a deep breath through my nose before turning around and facing Abby. She looks adorable with her tilted graduation cap and miniature gown that drags across the floor behind her like a wedding dress. If I had paid attention to my mom’s sewing lessons, maybe I would have been able to adjust the hem for her.

The same heaviness that has been present since this morning grows stronger at the reminder of my mom.

Te extraño muchísimo, Mami.

“I need to ask for someone to pick us up.” No way will I be able to change a tire by myself.