Chapter 17

Jessica gently caressed her mother's face, tenderly planting a loving kiss on her cheek. A warm smile graced Rebecca's lips as she looked at her daughter, grateful for the affection. With curiosity in her voice, she asked, "How long has it been since I was asleep?" Jessica held her mother's hand in a gentle embrace, planting a soft kiss on it. In that moment, a profound sense of relief washed over her. She was no longer alone; her mother, her unwavering pillar of support, had returned.

"It's been two days, Mum, two long days! You really frightened me. You know I can't imagine life without you. Please promise me you won't ever do that again," Jessica scolded her mother, though every word was imbued with deep love, and Rebecca could feel the genuine concern in her daughter's words.

Rebecca fought back the tears that welled up in her eyes, her grip on her daughter's hand tightening. She whispered with heartfelt regret, "I am so sorry for all the pain I caused you..." Her attempt to shift