I’m sorry, ma’am, but this is for close family only,” the guard repeated, his voice a monotone of practiced regret. His name tag read Marcus, and he studiously avoided my eyes as he spoke, focusing instead on a point somewhere over my left shoulder.

“Family only.” The words, meant to be a simple explanation, stung deeper than any physical blow could have. I am family, I wanted to scream. I’m Cedric’s grandmother, for heaven’s sake. I’ve been in this boy’s life since the very second he drew his first breath.