We arrive at his mother’s house in Queens and stand outside her door. At the sound of Latin music, I began to relax. The sound is so familiar it reminds me of my own mother who used to crank up the music in her apartment without carrying about the neighbors and dance with me as we Cleaned the house. Those were the good days.
“Okay, I’m ready,” I tell him and he smiles before turning the knob.
“Bless your soul.” He says as he swings the door open and a beautiful older woman who is sitting on a couch turns to face us and her mouth drops. The sound of Dominican bachata fills the house warmly.
"Mijo! Oh my goddess, how I’ve missed you!” She says before running up to Lorenzo and hugging him tightly. He nearly falls over as he laughs deeply and returns the hug.
“I’ve missed you too ma.” He t
