Betty did not reply.
The other children stood in silence. Betty did not look at any of them.
“I hope your trip is peaceful. I’m sure it won’t take long.”
Betty sighed.
“We know, you don’t want to go. But we all know you need to. Mary is waiting.”
“You’ll see lots of people you know there. Uncle Ray, and Cousin Tony, and your friend Elaine.”
Betty sighed again.
“Bon voyage, Mom.”
The nurse turned off the monitor.
They waited.
Betty departed.