Chilanga Sprinkles

I rock him in the luxurious, unhurried way of a grandparent. I hold him close and feel his little hand explore my face. I nibble on his tiny fingers. We gaze at each other in the dim light that comes in from the hall. The rocking is slow and gentle. His breathing slows. His eyes close. His body slackens and sinks into the comfort of my plump body. Long after he is asleep, I rock him.