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"Yes."

"She should have asked me."

"Yes."

"She knew I would say no."

Mom's expression softens.

"Maybe."

I push a hand through my hair.

"This isn't fair."

"No, it isn't."

That stops me. Mom picks up the plastic wrap again, then puts it right back down.

"Your sister knew she was asking a lot of you."

"A lot?"

I laugh once, but there's no humor in it.

"She's asking me to change my entire life."

"I know."

"What happens if I say no?"

"I take care of Noah."

"You?"

Her eyebrows rise.

"I'm his grandmother."

"I know that."

"And I'm perfectly capable."

"Mom."

"I'm not dead yet, Madison."

"Could we not use that phrase today?"

Her face changes.

"Sorry."

I immediately regret snapping at her.

"No. I'm sorry."

The silence that follows is heavier. "I just..." I press my fingers against my forehead. "I can't think about this right now."