I waited alone outside the ICU, downloading loan apps one by one on my phone.

That's when Nina suddenly showed up.

Nina rushed over, sighing heavily when she saw me.

"Madeline, seriously, you hung up before I could finish. I had to ask around forever to find which hospital you were at."

I grabbed her arm desperately. "Did Mrs. Blackwood finally come to her senses and send you with the money?"

She nodded, "Yes, she specifically asked me to send something to help you through this tough time."

I watched eagerly as she pulled items from her bag, but my hope turned to confusion.

'What was this pile of colorful paper and beads?'

Nina shoved them into my hands, saying, "These are prayer beads and cards that Mrs. Blackwood made herself when she heard about your mom being in the hospital. She and Mr. Blackwood are traveling, so she asked me to bring these to you. If you just say these prayers with faith, your mom will surely..."

I threw the items back in her face.

The emergency room door opened.

I rushed forward, asking hopefully, "How is my mom? Is she Okay?"

The doctor sighed and shook his head.

I broke down and ran into the emergency room, only to see my mom's body growing cold and stiff.

From outside, I heard Nina's scornful voice, "I told you these were blessed prayer beads Mrs. Blackwood made herself, you shouldn't disrespect..."

But I couldn't care less, as I collapsed crying over my mom's body.

It took me a whole week to handle my mom's funeral arrangements.

During this time, Felix called several times and texted: Taking off without leave - are you quitting?

I didn't respond to any messages.

I only returned to the office the day after finishing everything.

Felix, looking grim, yelled at me, "Look at the time! Madeline, you're such a disappointment! Not only did you skip work for a week without notice, but you're also one minute late today. I'm having HR write up a formal reprimand."

"And pay the late fee too!"

Nina, hearing Felix's outburst, rushed over to smooth things over.

"Madeline, you really went too far this time. We understand you're grieving, but that's no excuse to ignore company rules. How about you apologize to Mr. Blackwood and write a letter of guarantee, okay?"

I laughed coldly, looking at Nina. "Go to hell."