The step-daughter of the old lady’s niece
was induced to coma due to sepsis
from failing kidneys, the same week
the old lady was to fly her first time
south to visit her daughter’s daughter.

The step-daughter’s life hung in the balance.

The old lady decided not to go.

The granddaughter returned the new bedsheets she’d purchased.

Grief proved the stronger draw.

Chagall 2019