For three long months, Mia’s mother warned her not to visit, citing ongoing house renovations as the reason. But an unsettling feeling lingered in Mia’s mind. Unable to resist her instincts, she made an unannounced visit, only to uncover a shocking truth.

As dawn broke, Mia drove through the city’s deserted streets, the morning light casting a gentle glow on everything. Yet, her heart was heavy with concern.

Her mother had been adamant: “You can’t come over. The house is a disaster due to the renovations,” she claimed repeatedly during their calls. But missing her mother for three entire months wasn’t normal, not for the tight-knit duo they once were.

Waiting at a traffic light, thoughts of her mother’s recent conversations played in Mia’s mind. Her mom’s voice, often tired and distant, kept deflecting Mia’s inquiries with questions about her job promotion. Something was amiss, and Mia knew it was time to find out what.

Despite the early hour, Mia felt a persistent urgency pushing her toward her mother’s home. But nothing could prepare her for the sight awaiting her: the neglected garden with overgrown weeds, an unheard-of sight for her mother’s usually immaculate yard.

The door was unlocked, unheard of for someone as cautious as her mother. With a sense of dread, Mia stepped inside. Instead of renovation chaos, there was unnatural cleanliness, accompanied by a sharp, citrusy scent.

Scanning the room, Mia saw their cherished beach photo. It was smudged—unusual for her fastidious mother. A strange unease clawed at Mia as she called out to the silent house.

A faint noise from upstairs pulled Mia from her thoughts. Her heart pounded as she ascended, whispering for her mother.

The sight in her mother’s bedroom was devastating. Her once-vibrant mom was frail, her head wrapped in a scarf; her glowing spirit dimmed by illness. “Mia, you shouldn’t see me like this,” she feebly protested.

Mia was floored. Her brain struggled to make sense of her mom’s appearance. “What happened to you, Mom?” she implored, clutching her mother’s thin hand, yearning for answers.

“I have cancer,” her mom revealed softly, sending Mia’s world spinning. Tears filled Mia’s eyes as she pleaded for an explanation.

Tears flowing, her mom explained she hid her illness to avoid burdening Mia, who was busy chasing her professional dreams. Anger mixed with sorrow for Mia as she realized the magnitude of her mother’s sacrifices.

“Mom, I should have been here! You should have told me!” Mia sobbed. The facade of strength her mother had maintained crumbled, revealing how scared she was not to mar her daughter’s future.

Mia nestled by her mother, holding her tightly, promising never to leave her side again. They sat together, words unnecessary as sorrow and love enveloped them.

A week later, Mia moved back into her childhood home, dedicating herself to her mother’s care. With work obligations set aside, she made sure her mom’s remaining days were filled with comfort and bonding.

Each moment shared was a treasure, imprinted on Mia’s heart forever. As she reassured her mother of her unwavering support, she witnessed the poignant beauty of holding onto loved ones tightly.