Ever since Maddie was transferred to the new hospital, Amelia had stayed by her daughter's side constantly, refusing to leave her for even a moment. Every responsibility concerning Sean had been passed over to Nick and Sally. Maddie's days were filled with treatments and tests, and Amelia couldn't stand the thought of her little girl being lonely during the process. The hospital room had become their entire world.
It was late in the afternoon, and Amelia sat beside Maddie's bed, spooning pudding into her daughter's mouth. The soft light from the window cast a warm glow across the room, but it did little to brighten Amelia's mood. Maddie's eyes, once full of life, seemed dull now, her tiny body shrinking more and more each day. The chubby cheeks Amelia used to kiss had all but disappeared, leaving behind a gaunt face that broke her heart.
"Mom," Maddie said suddenly, her voice soft but clear, "why don't you go home? Sean must miss you a lot."
