Chapter 44

"Run, Lulu!" Mom's voice grew weaker as the net tightened around her.

"No, Mom. I don't want to go alone. Can you please come with me?"

Mom shook her head as she grew more distant. I got up to chase after her, terrified.

"Wait for me, Mom!"

I opened my eyes all of a sudden.

Bright sunlight shot right into my eyes. I quickly covered them.

A warm yet dry hand touched my shoulder immediately. A voice called out, "Don't move. You're still healing. Dear, Lulu's woken up."

I returned to my senses. The sharp smell of sanitizer filled my nostrils. There was an IV drip bag right above my head.

I was still alive!

I remembered now. That kind old man saved me.

I survived yet another catastrophe!

"How are you feeling, darling? Do you feel sick anywhere?" Mom's delicate yet loving face appeared in my vision. How long had she been crying? Her eyes were frighteningly swollen.

"Mom," I called softly, caressing her cheek.

Mom pressed my hand to her face as tears of joy burst forth. "Sweet