Finally listening

I sit next to my mom, holding her hand. She fell asleep talking, and I hadn’t wanted to leave yet. Her fingers feel cold, and her skin feels thin.

Taran stands in the doorway, “I made you some food. Please come eat. Your mother needs to rest.”

I shake my head, “We were in the middle of a conversation. She was telling me about her childhood. I want to be here when she wakes up. Besides, I’m not hungry.”

I can hear the desperation in Taran’s voice, “Tru, you haven’t eaten or slept in the past three days. Please, come eat. Your father won’t let me bring it here.”

“What if she wakes up while I’m gone?” I tell him through tears.

“Your mother will call if she wakes. Her phone is right next to her.” Seeing that I’m not moving, Taran offers, “I will stay with her if you want. Please go eat something.” Taran walks over and kneels beside me, “Tru, I’m worried about you. I don’t believe you are thinking clearly. Your mom is tired. She’s pushing herself while she is awake to speak with you. Look