BOUND BY DECEPTION
Sophia and I, overwhelmed with joy, moved closer to Mum and embraced her.
“Doctor said I’m recovering and will be discharged soon,” she said with a grin, her face glowing with hope.
“Yes!” we responded in unison, our voices bursting with joy.
For a moment, the room felt light again—filled with laughter, relief, and the warmth of healing. Then, a sudden buzz broke the atmosphere. Sophia’s phone lit up.
She glanced at the screen, her expression tightening. Without a word, she answered and brought it slowly to her ear.
“It’s not what you think,” she said softly, her voice trembling with emotion. There was a flicker of sorrow—or regret—woven into every word. “I’m sorry… I won’t stay long.”