I carry the tray down to Mom's bedroom. When I enter, the light inside is dim, and the air is slightly warm.

"Mom?" I call out, searching for the switch. She's lying on the bed, her face pale, eyes half closed.

For a moment, I think she's just relaxing, but when I touch her arm, it's burning hot.

"What the fuck!" I exclaim, dropping the tray on the closest table, panic rising in my throat. I shake her gently.

"Mom, can you hear me?"

Her eyes flutter open weakly. She sighs tiredly. ...