Heart of Gold by Beverly Jenkins Read Free Book Online Page B

her home. The driver helped her bring in the luggage and, after receiving his tip, drove off.
    The interior of the house was hushed. Even though she was anxious to see Reg, the urge to see her daughter was stronger. By the soft glow of the race car night-lights that had recently replaced the ones featuring Barbie, Roni stood beside the open door and watched her daughter sleep. It was good to see her. The West Coast gig had been only five days, but she felt as if she’d been away much longer. Who’d’ve ever thought she’d be mother to such an awesomely bright and inquisitive child? Zoey was also a child of incredible strength, and it was that strength that had taken Roni by the hand and led her back to singing, and to life, something Roni would always be grateful for. And in exchange Roni promised to keep her safe and love her unconditionally for as long as she drew breath.
    Zoey continued to sleep with Tiger Tamar and the night-lights, but Roni didn’t care. Had she been overrun by rats the way Zoey had been, she’d sleep with every light in the house turned on. At least her nightmares from the attack seemed to have subsided. It had been almost a year since the last time Zoey woke up screaming and crying. Roni liked to think that the love of her new parents was helping the healing process along.
    As if sensing Roni’s presence, Zoey’s eyes opened. As they focused, she shot out of bed and ran for her hug. “Mama! You’re back!”
    Roni bent low and held her close. “I am. Missed you so much. How are you, Miss Lady?”
    â€œI’m good.”
    They grinned at each other in the shadows. “I see the NASCAR pj’s I sent you fit.” The shirt and pants were covered with cars and sponsor decals.
    â€œYeah, but they’re boys’. They have a hole in the front of the pants. See?”
    Roni chuckled. “I know, babe. They didn’t have any for girls.”
    â€œWell, that’s messed up.”
    Roni loved her southern accent. “I thought so too, but I figured you’d still want them.”
    â€œI did. Do you think if I sent Danica Patrick an e-mail, she’d make girl pajamas?”
    â€œNo idea, but an e-mail sounds like a good idea.” Roni shook her head at her tweenage force of nature. “Let’s get you back in bed.”
    Hand in hand they walked the short distance, and Zoey climbed in. Roni covered her up and sat down on the edge of the mattress.
    â€œDid you hear about Crystal running away?” Zoey asked.
    â€œYes, Ms. Bernadine sent me a text. That was really sad.”
    When Zoey looked away as if something was bothering her, Roni asked, “What do you need to tell me, Zoey?”
    So Zoey told her all that had happened, from the promise she’d made to Crystal to being encouraged by Amari and Preston to spill the beans.
    â€œI wanted to talk to you about it, but I didn’t know if you were in rehearsal or sleeping or at the airport, so I talked to them.”
    â€œAnd sounds like they gave you some straight-up good advice.”
    â€œI felt bad about not saying anything last night.”
    â€œAnd next time what will you do?”
    She shrugged. “I don’t know. Tell, maybe.”
    â€œEither way it’s water under the bridge. I got a text from Ms. Bernadine, saying Crystal was home.”
    â€œDad told me. Do you think she’ll be mad at me?”
    Roni shrugged. “No telling, but if she is, I doubt it will be for very long. You did the right thing by coming forward, Zoey. The truth will always set you free.”
    Her answering smile warmed Roni’s insides. “Now, you and Tiger Tamar need to get back to sleep. We have church in the morning.”
    â€œOne more hug, please.”
    Roni obliged her and let the feel of her thin little arms fill her with even more joy. Zoey scooted back beneath the bedding, and Roni placed a light kiss on her cheek. “Night, baby