I rush around the car, yanking open the passenger side door. I gingerly help my mother out of the seat, gripping her tightly as she wobbles on her feet.
‘I’m fine, Elijah, stop fussing,’ she mutters, though her voice lacks its usual strength. She tries to wave me off with a weak flick of her hand, but I ignore her, inching her to the side so that I can shut the door before leading her up the driveway.
We make our way slowly toward the house, my mother’s weight getting heavier with each step. I help her lean against the door frame for support while I fumble with the keys, finally unlocking the door and ushering her inside.
The moment we cross the threshold, Mum pulls from my grip. She shuffles toward the stairs to sinks onto the bottom step, reaching down to tug off her boots.
‘Grab my
