Milo's Journey

Chapter 27: Holding Back

The rain beat a steady patter against the porch roof. Milo and Jose sat in the swing. Jose was leaning in the crook of Milo’s arm, and Milo softly hummed as he rocked the swing back and forth gently. Jose’s eyes were closed. They had just finished dinner a little while before and had come out to get some fresh air after helping Milo’s mom with the dishes.

Milo felt Jose relax into him. He gave a mental sigh as he realized that Jose was safe and the worst had passed.

Milo thought back to the moment Jose had broken. He had never felt so helpless. From the time he was a little boy, he had walked with the muertos, had understood the world beyond in ways that many people never would, and yet none of that mattered when the boy he loved was suffering.

In that moment when the world was breaking, it took all that was in him not to step between Jose and his pain. It almost broke him, but he knew this wasn’t his path to walk, and he had to trust Jose was strong enough to travel the road ahead of him.

In that moment he recognized a singular truth: even with all his power, he had to trust Jose to find his own way.

He held back.

Now the worst had passed, and something had shifted in Jose. There was a peace. Milo was no longer afraid for him, but he did remain vigilant.

Milo reached up and stroked Jose’s cheek.

“Querido, do you feel like talking about what happened when you and Diego went to the Museo El Cemi?” Milo kept his voice quiet and steady.

Jose opened his eyes and looked up at Milo.

“Hmmm, we met the curator who told us a lot about the Taino gods. Diego did most of the talking, and right now I can’t seem to remember too much of what was said. Diego would definitely be able to tell you more. Maybe we should talk to him tomorrow at school.” Jose yawned as he snuggled into Milo’s side once again.

Milo smiled down at the boy who had drifted slowly off to sleep after speaking. He realized that whatever had happened would have to wait. For now, he would simply keep humming his song and maintain the gentle motion of the swing so Jose could rest.