Commencement

  ****

  “So I guess this is it”, said Tim as he loaded his bag into the trunk of the limousine his mother had rented to take them to the airport. She was waiting on the inside, while Tim bade farewell to his friends.

  “Don’t’ make it sound so final”, pleaded Tamiko.

  “It’s only going to be for two weeks, Tim. God willing”, said Allen.

  “I’m still going to miss you guys.”

  “Same here”, said Davis.

  “Allen, would you check on my apartment while I’m gone. I already

  told Bradley you’d be back and forth.”

  “C’mon man what could happen in two weeks.”

  “How about fire, break-ins, plumbing problems. Besides you could take this opportunity to try out living on your own for a while or you can use my place to crash when you feel like you need to get away. Just don’t throw any wild parties.”

  “I hear you man.”

  “Tamiko, I have something for you that I want you to keep safe for me until I come back.” Tim reached into his jacket pocket and pulled out

  an envelope. “But don’t open it until I’m gone, deal.”

  “Deal. What is it?”

  “You’ll find out later. Just hold onto it and promise me you won’t

  lose it.”

  “I promise.”

  “And Davis, my friend I am trusting you with a very valuable gift.”

  “What’s that, man?” asked Davis kind of puzzled.

  “Her”, Tim said looking into Tamiko’s eyes “Watch out for her for me. Don’t let anything happen to her while I’m gone.”

  Tamiko was speechless.

  “I won’t”, replied Davis smiling.

  “Tim! We’re going to be late!” screeched Eleanor from the limo.

  “I’d better go.”

  “God bless you, man.”

  “God bless you all, too.”

  They all exchanged hugs before Tim disappeared inside the black limousine with its tinted windows, which soon sped off down the street into the bustling traffic. Then the three that were left walked away in silence knowing there was nothing more they could do. Tim was in God’s hands now.

  Seventy-Four