I gently laid Mom down on her bed. Making sure she was comfortable, I made my way to my room. On one side of the room stood a tall wooden shelf filled with books. Each one a portal to a different world. On the other side was my trusty old cupboard. It held a treasure trove of memories. I opened it, and there it was – my pilot uniform. Neatly hung and waiting for the day it could be worn again. I ran my fingers over its fabric. A rush of nostalgia and hope washed over me. Maybe, just maybe, I will get the chance to put it on once more. "Crystal," Mom's weak voice called out, interrupting my thoughts. I quickly left my room and returned to her side. It was time for her medication and she depended on me for her care. Mom needed me right now, so I decided to talk to George about staying ther