I sat cross-legged on my bed while my slightly younger cousin laid next to me, twirling a necklace around on her foot.
  
She sat up and took her backpack, grabbing a paper and handing it to me.

    I knew what this meant

I read the paper and as usual it said

        We would like to report inopropriate behavior from student      Liziah Ckeclec

This is the last warning that this student will get, and we would like you to talk to your child about better behavior in school

Thank you for understanding we hope you can get this under control

I looked back at her, "So, what crazy think did you do this time?"
   "I swear I didn't mean to do it I-"
   "You say that everytime, come up with a better excuse, plus why are you givin' this to me? I ain't your mamma"
 
She looked at me, a look of sadness, slightly glazed over her eyes.
   "My mamma ain't here any more, she ain't here anymore Lana!"

Guilt suddenly filled my heart to the brim.
   "I'm sorry, I'm so sorry Liziah"
  I inverted my gaze to said light.
  "I know, I am too"

We both sighed sadly, "where's your papa?" 
    "He's working really hard, now it's even more of a hustle since momma's gone, you know?"
    "Yeah..."
   I had the naggin feelin to ask what happen, but I didn't want to be rude so I brushed it away.
  

"Do you want any help with your homework?"
   I asked holding my pencil.
"Naw, I think I got this."