She said, “I’m gonna rule the world, someday, and you’ll be right there with me.” I knew what she meant. I couldn’t leave her, ever. No matter what world she’d take over, I’d be there, in the background. But if it makes her happy…

She said, “I’m gonna be famous, have the whole world kissing my million dollar sneakers.” She didn’t have to say it; I knew I’d be right behind her, right where I belong.

She said, “Babe, they’re gonna remember me, way after we’re gone.” I smiled and poured her coffee. She had speeches written for when she’s up on TV, pages for her biography. I’d seen them on her desk.

Then she said, “When I’m rich and famous we can have everything, anything.” She turned away from her home-cooked meal to look at me. “What is it you want?”

I looked up from my book to the intent face of my only love. I said, “I want to see you mainstream, streaming down my TV. I want to see you up on stage, to watch them love you. I want to be your only one, I want to see you thrive. I want to see you mainstream, and be there by your side.”

The look I got was curious as she shook her head. “But what do you want for you, my love? What do you want to be?”

“The only thing I want is you to be happy. Now finish your coffee, or we’ll be late for school.”

Mina