Mama nodded. “Yes, Mr. Jim, I saw you a comin’ with that foldin’ chair!” She smiled and continued, “But Layla and I was no match for his vile and broken self. He folded just like that chair you was a carryin’!”

We all laughed a bit and then I said, “It was truly miraculous the way that all went down!”

“Layla’s got the good Lord lookin’ out for her but she’s gonna need our help too!”

Looking at me now, Mama said, “You’re still wearin’ that necklace I gave ya to hold for Layla, Mr.
Jim?”

“Yes, I wear it every day,” I said.

“It’s gettin’ real close for the time to put that necklace on Layla! I’ll let you know when,” Mama said.

“Okay, Mama. Is there anything else we should do?” I asked.

“I’d like you to consider bringing Layla over to my shop a few days a week. My nieces are working part-time now so that’s given me plenty of time to be with Layla durin’ the day. It’s time to start her trainin’!” Mama said.