Layna's First Day
“Do you have your backpack? What about your lunch?”
“Yes, Mama. I have them.”
Kara bit her lip as she followed her daughter to Happy’s car. “You have your watch, right? You can always get ahold of me or Uncle Tony or Uncle Happy if you have it.”
“Yes, Mama, I have it. And don’t forget Uncle Rhodey and Auntie Kit. They’re programmed in here, too.” Layna chuckled as she spun around and hugged her mother. “Mama I’m going to be fine.”
“I know, but it’s your first day of sophomore year! This is a big deal!” Kara sighed and watched as Layna fiddled with the strap of her backpack. “What is it?”
“Do you…do you think Dad would be proud of me?”
Kara’s heart fell at her question, and she instantly engulfed the girl in her arms. “Your father is the proudest father in the world. You couldn’t make him any prouder even if you tried. No matter where he is, he is always on your side and always rooting for you. I know that it might be hard with people saying things but just try to ignore them. You know your father and you know the truth about what really happened with Uncle Bucky. Remember that and you’ll be fine.”
“Thanks, Mama.”
“Come on, K…give the child room to breathe!”
Rolling her eyes at Tony, Kara sighed. “Okay little one. You better get going before Uncle Happy leaves without you.”
“Yes, yes, we don’t want to be late for our first day now do we?” Tony smiled and hugged his niece before she waved and ran off for the car.
The siblings stood together and watched as the car pulled out of sight before speaking.
“God, I can’t believe she’s in high school already,” he said in astonishment. “Let alone in her sophomore year.”
“I know.” Kara nodded and played with her necklace. “It’s crazy to think that she’s fifteen. She’ll be driving soon.”
“Thank God we have the space to teach her here.” Tony shuddered. “I don’t even want to think about her city driving.”
“You and me both, brother.” She teased and turned to walk away, her fingers settling her necklace—a simple gold ring on a chain—back in its spot above her heart.