The nurse arrived punctually with the medication cart at the hospital room door.

Sophia accepted the pills and poured half a glass of warm water. She carefully brought the cup to Evelyn's lips. "Mom, time for your medicine."

Evelyn suddenly swatted the cup away. The plastic tumbler clattered to the floor, splashing water across Sophia's hand and leaving red marks.

Sophia gasped sharply.

As she bent to retrieve the cup, icy fingers closed around her wrist.

Evelyn lowered her head, her fingertips gently tracing the red marks on Sophia's hand.

Sophia's eyes grew moist as she embraced her mother's frail shoulders. "It doesn't hurt, really."

Evelyn slowly released her grip, her gaze flickering uncertainly.

When afternoon sunlight streamed through the curtains, Ethan entered carrying an enormous bouquet of pink carnations.

Evelyn watched him warily, her fingers clutching the bedsheet.

"For you." Ethan placed the flowers directly into her arms.

Evelyn bent to inhale their fragrance, then unexpectedly plucked one stem and offered it to Sophia.

"Thank you, Mom!" Sophia accepted the flower, her nose stinging with emotion.

Evelyn's pale fingers lightly brushed the petals, her expression softening.

"Mom, I'm Sophia," she whispered near her mother's ear, voice trembling. "Could you say my name?"

Evelyn remained absorbed in arranging the flowers.

A sudden knock interrupted them.

Natalie bounded in carrying a teddy bear nearly her own height. "Grandma! This is for you!"

Sophia nearly choked at the term "grandma."

Evelyn looked up blankly.

"I'm Alexander's fiancée!" Natalie cheerfully linked arms with Alexander. "When we marry and have babies, we'll need your help caring for them!"

Ethan turned his face away.

Alexander's ears turned crimson as he cleared his throat. "Mom, this is Natalie."

Evelyn studied Natalie for a long moment before setting aside the flowers and accepting the stuffed animal. Cradling it, she began humming an ancient lullaby.

The melody flowed beautifully.

Natalie clapped delightedly. "Grandma sings wonderfully!"

A faint smile touched Evelyn's lips.

The singing ceased abruptly when Vincent entered.

"Vincent." Evelyn called his name clearly before rushing into his embrace.

Sophia watched them hug, her eyes growing moist again.

"You two enjoy your visit!" Natalie tugged Alexander toward the exit. "We're off for our date!"

Ethan stared impassively out the window.

After lunch, Sophia scrubbed laundry in the bathroom.

Ethan embraced her from behind. "Can't the orderly handle this?"

"I want to wash Mom's things myself." Sophia continued working. "She'll feel the difference."

Warm breath suddenly brushed her earlobe.

With a bang, Evelyn burst in, glaring at Ethan.

Sophia quickly stepped between them. "Mom, he wasn't hurting me!"

Evelyn raised a fist but allowed Vincent to gently lead her away.

"See?" Sophia smiled while wringing out the clothes. "Mom's protecting me."

Ethan raised an eyebrow. "Seems I'll need to mind the setting."

At evening farewells, Sophia stood by the door. "Mom, I'll visit again tomorrow."

Evelyn kept her head bowed silently.

As Sophia turned to leave, a voice suddenly called: "Sophia!"

Sophia froze, whirling around.

Evelyn gazed at her with clear eyes, lips curved in a smile.

"Mom!" Sophia rushed to embrace her, tears spilling over.

Evelyn patted her back, then abruptly said: "Nicole... find Nicole..."