: 3
3
My condition deteriorated, and I was admitted to the ICU again.
While I was unconscious, I could see the terror in Mother's eyes and Little Sister's tear-streaked face.
I opened my mouth, wanting to tell them not to cry.
But I couldn't get the words out.
I don't know how much time passed before I woke up again. I saw a slap mark on Little Sister's face and stroked it, my heart aching.
I raised my hand and slapped myself across the face.
The act startled Mother and Little Sister. It didn't actually hurt much. In my weakened state, I didn't have the strength to hit hard.
I smiled gently at Mother. "Mother, if you hurt Little Sister again, then whatever you do to her, I'll do to myself. I know you dote on me the most, and I can't bring myself to resent you, so I'll just have to be the one to suffer instead."
Mother hugged me, sobbing as she let out all her pent-up anguish.
I patted Mother's back.
"Mother, Little Sister is your daughter too. I'm so glad you gave me a little sister. I hope you'll treat her well."
Tears streamed down Little Sister's face as she looked at me, her lips silently forming the word "Sister."
I gave her a reassuring smile.
'I hope my smile wasn't too ugly.'
