Allen's eyes fluttered open at the noise, and her eyes widened when she saw Jenny sitting next to her.

"Mom?" She was caught between surprise and disbelief.

"Am I dreaming?"

"N-No, honey. It's really me," Jenny said. "Oh." She tried to sit up, using her hands to support herself, but Jenny was faster. Before Allen knew what she was doing, she helped her into a sitting position, leaning against the headboard, and placed some pillows behind her back.

"Thank you," she told her mom after she returned to her seat. Jenny shook her head, tears threatening to fall again.

"You didn't have to thank me, Allen. It's the least I...