“And when I needed him, look what happened.” I glanced away from the smiling picture of us at the cabin—my happiest memories took place there.
“Stop feeling sorry for yourself, and be the man I know I raised you to be.”
I kissed her on the forehead. “You’re lucky you’re beautiful and I love you. I’ve fired people for raising their voice at me.”
“Who? You? You’re like a tame little kitty cat.” She laughed.
I shook my head and smiled. “Let me be in my bad mood.”
“No.”
“You’re so stubborn.”
“Son, go look in the mirror then get back to me, mmm?”
“Fine, fine.” My phone went off. “It’s the office.”
“Go.” She grinned. “I’m only a phone call away! Plus I’m not going anywhere.”
I felt my heart breaking. “Please don’t make jokes about that, about being stuck in this godforsaken hospital.”
“If you don’t laugh, you cry, Julian. I would much rather spend the remaining moments I have laughing.”
“Stop making sense,” I grumbled. “I love you, Mom.”
“I love you too, Julian.”
She held open her arms, and I held her tight. I memorized the lavender perfume she put behind her ears, the softness of her skin against my neck.
I memorized every minute detail.
Not realizing.
That it would be the last hug I would ever receive from her.
The last conversation we’d ever have.
I smiled at her one last time.
And I left.