Gideon waited impatiently to meet his mother. Finally, the doctor gave him permission to see her. He rushed into the room at once. The frantic pounding in his chest eased the moment his eyes fell on his mother.
Georgea was sitting up in bed, leaning against the headboard. She looked frail, but she was conscious. That alone brought him relief.
"Mom…" He walked to her side. "How are you feeling? Are you in pain?"
She sighed heavily, her expression filled with exaggerated helplessness. "I'm old now. My body isn't what it used to be. I'll only grow weaker."
She looked at him sadly. "All I want is to see you happy, make a family before I die. But you refuse to grant me even that wish."
She turned her face away, sulking.
Gideon lowered his head, conflicted, then finally nodded. "I'll get married."
Georgea's eyes lit up instantly. "Really?" she exclaimed. "Then I'll have Danica come over and start preparing for the wedding—"
