Dedicated to my sister for her ceaseless loving care.
My elderly mother stood by the window, her hand pulling back a section of curtain. “Mom, what are you doing up? It’s nearly 3AM.”
Without turning to look at me, she replied. “I’m waiting for my husband. He’s returning from the war and will be home any minute.”
I closed my eyes and sighed in resignation. One moment she was lucid, the next her mind clouded over like wintry days. I couldn’t bring myself to tell her the truth again.
“Here, Mom. Lie down. Try to get some sleep.”
She closed her eyes as I silently left her room.
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The Elephant's Trunk 