freeze (part 5)
My mom almost desired my helplessness, at this point - always calling for complaints and ailments, as if my pain could wash hers away. She did well to pretend not to cry, but I could smell her dried tears every time she pulled me close and rinsed my face with a warm towel. I smiled, in my heart - but my face could only exert the same casual look. Partially there - but entirely not.
