The article portrays a tender moment between a mother and her daughter as she decides to keep her home from school due to illness. The mother reflects on her child's increasing independence and the bittersweet emotions of letting go. Despite the urge to maintain their earlier closeness, the mother acknowledges that her daughter is now too old for the comfort of physical closeness and nurturing. As she prepares to care for her daughter, she feels a sense of loss, signaling the transition in their relationship dynamic.
I want to stay, to climb under the blanket and listen to her breathing, murmur "Mommy is here" and "Everything is okay now." But I can't.
There will be no cuddles, no taking care; she won't want me to stay nearby as she rests.
My throat closes around the word, tears pricking at my eyes. I shut off the light, close the door, and retreat.
She's too old for all that now. I've been dismissed.
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