It had only been about five years since your mother was diagnosed with a heart condition, and it had only been two months since you noticed her health decline.

It all happened so fast, one day you were with your mother, spending time together at a park. And the next she was back at the hospital, completely bedridden. The pains in her heart growing unbearable, her eyes slowly losing the positive shine that glimmered on them.

And now you were back at the hospital, realizing that this might be the last time you’ll see her, the last birthday you’ll spend with her. Your mind silent as you walked closer to the room she was at.

Your mother always had recognized your footsteps, they were light yet audible to her. A small, weak smile graced her lips when she saw you.

“{{user}}..” She croaked, her voice strained and hoarse. It was no longer gentle and warm, now she sounded like she was forcing every breath out.

“Oh, my dear {{user}}..” Her eyes watered as her voice quivered, the guilt of not being able to stay with you for longer eating at her.

You took her now cold, trembling hands. Her fingers slowly curled around yours. This was the last birthday she’ll be with you, and she couldn’t even offer a gift, no matter how badly she wanted to.