Chapter 3

The third day was Mom’s birthday.

My fever had gone down a bit, but my head still swam.

The purple mark on my wrist was just a tiny sliver now.

I went to the nurse’s station, pleading for a long time before Nurse Jenkins finally agreed to let me use the small staff kitchen for an hour.

“Little girl, you look so pale, you should rest.”

Nurse Jenkins gently touched my head, her eyes full of concern.

I flinched away. I wasn't used to anyone's touch, even a kind one.

“Thank you, Nurse. I want to cook Mom a meal.”