All through my mom’s morning visit I rehearse in my head what I want to say to Kelsey. How I want to take her to Coney Island, to the Wonder Wheel. How I’ll win her the biggest stuffed animal in all Luna Park.

You’d think my mom would notice I’m not listening to her, but as usual she doesn’t and as usual I’m amazed at how long she can talk. Like how does her brain think of so many things to say?

My mom ends her visit the same as always, telling me that she’ll see me soon, but to call or text if I need anything before then. She gives me a hug, and touches my nose with her index finger. I think she must have seen the nose thing on a TV show or something because she only started doing it a few days ago.

“Love you, my Oliver!” she says over her shoulder as she leaves.

I look across the hallway, out of habit, but Flora’s curtain is drawn.

I miss her.