Loving

Curled up in a blanket in a recliner next to Mom's bed. I'm dozing intermittently but Mom is awake and a little restless.
"Nina"
I push down the footrest and go up to the bed..
"I love you," she says
"I love you too, Mom. You are the best Mom ever"
"How are you doing?" she asks
""I'm OK"
"Am I ok?" she wonders
"You are great"

"Good." she whispers.

I go back to the chair, lean back and close my eyes
"Nina"
I put down the foot rest and go up to her bed. I re-position the cool towel on her forehead. She sighs and says, "There, that feels so good."
"Everything OK, Mom?"
"I'm good."

A few moments later, "Nina"
This time she just looks at me and says, "I forgot what I was going to say."
"I't's ok Mom, I need the exercise."
I tease her about owing me a big tip--like when we're in Florida and I put out a "Tip Jar"
She nods.
And I realize that she can't smile anymore--except with her eyes.