Time seemed to freeze in that moment.

I floated among them, carefully observing their expressions, hoping to discern traces of sadness, regret, or grief.

I wanted to know if they would shed even a few tears for me if I died.

Just a little would suffice.

But what I expected didn't happen.

My mother simply said, "Oh," her voice flat, before hanging up the phone with the same finality she had shown when she dismissed my plea for help that day.

She turned and pulled Ryan into the movie theater.

"Mom, what did that person say? I didn't catch it," Ryan asked.

"Nothing, just a scam call claiming your sister...