I watched as Ace's mother settled into her bed, a look of exhaustion on her face. "I think I'm going to sleep," she said, her voice weak but gentle.
She turned to me and smiled. "I hope you're not going back tonight. I'll see you tomorrow," she said, her eyes sparkling with a knowing glint.
I nodded, still trying to process the shock of her earlier words. "Yes, of course," I said, trying to sound casual.
Ace's mother turned to him and asked, "So, where are you going to sleep?"
Ace's response was smooth. "You already got a place for me."
She nodded, a small smile on her face. "Okay. You two have fun. I'm going to sleep."
As she drifted off, Ace asked about the private nurse he'd arranged for her. "Is the nurse doing her job well?" he asked, his voice concerned.
"Yes, she's doing her work well," his mother replied, her voice barely above a whisper.
I hugged her one last time, trying to convey my concern and affection. "Goodnight," I said, my voice soft.
