Pain streaked across her face. “Never. I’m always with you. Always here.” She placed a hand over her heart. Another noise came from downstairs, one that almost sounded like an explosion. Mom jumped down from the chest, shoving it back against the wall. “Close the door, Hayden.” I didn’t move for a moment. Couldn’t. “Please,” she begged. It was the desperation in her voice that had me moving. I hefted the door closed. But just before it latched, I heard her whisper, “Love you forever.”
