Maribel violently yanks the decorative silver chain fastened loosely around Estelle’s collar.
/
Chapter 22 / 27
Chapter 22 - MARIBEL AND ESTELLE
Their final relationship surprised everyone.
Maribel became one of Estelle’s most patient visitors.
Not primary caregiver.
Important distinction.
Professional aides handled care.
I handled legal and medical decisions according to my mother’s documents and wishes.
Maribel visited.
Read magazines aloud.
Painted Estelle’s nails.
Listened to the same story three times without correcting.
One afternoon Estelle asked:
“Are you the woman who wanted my chair?”
Maribel froze.
Then answered:
“Yes.”
“Did you get it?”
“No.”
Estelle smiled.
“Good.”
Maribel laughed through tears.
Then Estelle said:
“You’re prettier anyway.”
May you like
Memory drift.
Mercy without planning.
