24
Mama laughed again. “Women know these things,”
she said, happiness in her voice. “Just think of the chance
this child will have in Kansas!”
The kerosene lamplight disappeared, plunging the
apartment into darkness. Mama and Papa stepped quietly
into the bedroom, careful not to bump the trundle bed.
After a few minutes, the big bed creaked and moved as her
parents settled in. Hattie imagined Mama nestled in Papa’s
arm, close and warm.
“I’ll consider the meeting, for you.” Papa said. “But
can you believe a whole town with nothing but black folks?
I can hardly imagine it.”
“I can.” Mama’s voice was sleepy and far away. “I
dream it every day.”
