I returned to Cheryl’s room, my mind a whirlwind of emotions. She was asleep, her face ashen against the white of the hospital pillow. The strong, defiant sister I knew seemed so fragile now, enveloped in the sterile sheets. I understood then that my sister was caught in a battle with herself, torn between her desires and the reality she didn’t want to face.

Logan was sitting in the corner, his eyes wide and worried. I put a reassuring hand on his shoulder, trying to mask my own turmoil. “Hey, buddy. How are you holding up?” I asked softly.

He shrugged, his eyes fixed on his mother. “I just want her to be okay,” he whispered.