~~~DIANA~~~
I’m sitting right beside Mom’s bed, brushing my fingers gently through her thinning hair.
It’s so brittle now, like it might just pull off her scalp if I brush too hard.
“You’re okay, Mom. I’m right here. You’re gonna be okay,” I whisper.
Her eyelids flutter a little and my heart hits the roof real quick.
“What? Mom?”
Her eyes open slowly. They roll around for a second like she doesn't even know where she is, then they finally find me.
Her dry lips tremble with a weak smile that breaks my heart.
“Diana…” she calls out. Her voice is so hoarse it’s barely a sound.
“You’re awake. Oh my God, you’re awake.” A shaky laugh bursts out of my lips but I'm tearing up too.
I squeeze her hand and she squeezes back. Her skin is finally getting warmer.
“I was so scared. Don't you
