I poured an ounce into her cup. I capped the bottle and lay it back at my feet. We sipped pure, clear rum from our cups and continued watching the movie in silence.

It really was a dumb movie--just a lot of improbable but well-produced action scenes stitched together by the thinnest plot imaginable. But the stars were familiar and at times the action was so outrageous they made us both laugh out loud. I was glad to see Mom obviously enjoyed the movie, despite its childishness. The rum probably helped her enjoy it.

We both sipped from our cups until the liquor was gone.

Mom broke the silence.

"Will,...