Too late. Too late.

Too. Damned. Late.

I knew it as I tore at the veil. I knew it while a shriek so powerful I would never contain it built in my chest. I knew it even as I slipped and slid my way out the gap, across the floor, landing on my knees at her side.

Too late. Oh, Mom, how could I be too late? For you of all people.

Fate, so cruel. So heartless.

Miriam Hayle was ...