I'm in mexico for winter break and my stepmom held a party with old friends. One guy complained that he couldn't tell my gender because I have a girl's face but no makeup, curves but tshirts and "boy shirts," pretty words but deepish voice. So my dad told me to change, put on makeup, and talk in a higher pitch. I didn't want to ruin the party for my stepmom so i went. During this the man who complained's son ducked into the room. He was about 6 or 7
(Originally in spanish)
Boy: can I.. try that?
Me: what? The makeup? Sure.
Boy: really?
Me: sure why not
Boy:you won't say its weird and bad?
Me: umm no. Maybe weird, ive never seen someone as young as you wearing makeup but it's whatever makes you happy!
I was helping the sweet little one when his dad started calling for him probably wondering where the heck his son was off to now. The boy suddenly sprang up and started rubbing furiously at his face. Please dont say I'm here, he pleaded. I shoved him down on the floorspace behind the bed and halfway lifted my shirt just when the door opened.
"Do you mind I'm changing" I gestured to my shirt and then lowered it all the way
"Sorry," he left. I looked down. The little one was crying silently and rubbing the makeup off his face with his tears. He hugged me, thanked me, and dried his tears on my pant leg. I gave him some makeup and he hid it in his back pocket. It wasn't his skin tone at all, but he didn't care.
When everyone left he turned to me and stole a smile. I'm not sure why but I did the hunger games three finger salute towards him. He looked confused but returned the gesture.
I haven't cried in years, but I did tonight for that sweet, terrified angel walking through hell with a smile. I wish I had asked his name.