Days maybe you should keep a closer eye on Mia when you're out Angela felt a flash of irritation Mia is perfectly safe she did a kind thing for someone in need. As Sarah rejoined her group Angela could hear the whisper start up again she caught fragments of their conversation dangerous irresponsible poor child the Judgment in their voices made Angela's chest Titan. She wanted to stand up and shout at them to defend Mia's innocence and kindness but she knew it would only make things worse. On the swings Mia seemed oblivious to the adult drama unfolding around her she pumped her legs soaring higher and higher her face split in a wide grin for a moment. Angela envied her daughter's ability to find joy in the simple things even in the midst of confusion and worry as the afternoon wore.
On more people approached Angela some like old Mr Johnson from down the street we supportive you're raising a fine girl there Angela he said. His eyes twinkling the world needs more kindness not less but others were less understanding Mrs Peterson the self-appointed neighborhood watch Captain cornered Angela. As they were leaving the playground Angela dear she began her voice dripping with false sweetness I hope you'll be more careful in the future we can't have our children associating with those types. Of people it sets a bad example Angela felt her temper flare those types of people you mean human beings who have fallen on hard times I think. The example Mia set was beautiful she saw someone in need and helped isn't that what we should all do Mrs Peterson's face rened but before could respond.
Angela took Mia's hand and walked away her head held high as they made their way home Angela's mind was a whirlwind of emotions. She was proud of Mia's kindness worried about the repercussions of their involvement with JN and angry at the judgmental attitudes of some of their neighbors mommy Mia's voice broke through her thoughts why. Did Mrs Peterson look so mad Angela sighed trying to find the right words some people honey have a hard time understanding kindness when it's given to strangers but that doesn't mean we stop. Being kind it just means we have to be brave in our kindness Mia nodded seeming to mul this over I'm glad I gave. John my sandwich she said after a moment even if it made some people mad Angela felt a surge of Pride I'm glad you did too sweetheart you did.
The right thing as they climbed the stairs to their apartment Angela's phone buzzed with a text it was from her best friend Leticia girl what's going. On heard about the police you okay call me Angela groaned inwardly the news had spread even further than she' thought she knew she'd have to call Leticia. Later and explain everything inside their apartment Angela felt a wave of relief wash over her here at least they were safe from prying eyes and wagging tongues. As Mia settled in front of the TV with her coloring books Angela retreated to the kitchen needing a moment to collect her thoughts. She leaned against the counter taking deep breaths the event of the day played on a loop in her mind the police at her door.