Chapter 21
During the reception, Anne began to feel tired. Kelsey decided that it would be best to take her mom home so she could rest. Once at home, she helped Anne into bed and they sat and talked
for a bit about the ceremony and a few other things. Inevitably, Toby's name came up.
"I like Toby, you know that?"
"Yes. I like him too."
"I think there's more to it."
"You're right. I love him, mom," replied Kelsey.
"I'm glad to see you happy."
"You look tired, why don't you get some rest?"
"Promise me, you'll be happy, Kelsey. That's all I want for you."
"I know, mom. Now, get some rest. I'll make dinner later and then we'll talk more about Toby, okay?"
"Okay. I love you, Kelsey."
"I love you too, mom."
Kelsey kissed Anne's forehead and pulled the covers up before leaving the room. She went into the office to read a few briefs, but found she couldn't concentrate. Taking a book off the
shelves, Kelsey went into the living room and began to read the book Josh had given her for Christmas. Two pages into it, she drifted off to sleep.
"Kelsey…Kelsey!"
She heard someone calling her name, but she thought it was a dream, until she felt herself being shaken awake. Kelsey opened her eyes and saw the nurse in front of her.
"Kelsey, your mom needs you."
She raced out of the living room, down the hall and into her mother's room. Anne was barely conscious.
"Kelsey," she called out weakly.
"I'm right here, mom."
Kelsey sat down next to her on the bed and took her mother's hand into her own.
"I love you, sweetie," Anne said as she gave Kelsey's hand a squeeze.
"I love you too, mom."
And with that, Anna Marie Saufl took her final breath.