My Mother Called Me a Liar
Perfect Timing
To avoid being accused of favoritism, my mother forced me, despite my severe anemia, to participate in the school's group blood donation drive.
After only 100 milliliters, my vision started going dark.
I reached for the needle, trying to stop the procedure, but the young nurse immediately grabbed my wrist and pinned it down.
"Only 100 milliliters and you already want to quit? The other students all donated 400."
She glanced at my pale face, her eyes full of disgust.
"Donating blood is something honorable. Selfish people like you, pretending to be sick just to get out of it, deserve to have double drawn as punishment!"
Nearby, my mother watched me coldly, disappointment written all over her face.
"Briana Hayes, is this really how I raised you?
"Everyone else donated. Don't think you're special.
"You will finish these 400 milliliters today, even if it kills you!"
I gasped for air, my heartbeat pounding so violently it felt like my chest would explode.
By the time they reached the third bag, my vision had completely blurred, and I collapsed heavily onto the floor.
My soul slowly drifted upward as I looked at my mother with guilt in my eyes.
I'm sorry, Mom.
I really wasn't lying.
This time… I truly couldn't hold on any longer.