Mama, please sit up slowly. You need to eat before taking your medicine. Easy, easy, Mama. Please don’t stress yourself. I am fine, my daughter. Don’t worry too much about me. You always say you’re fine every time you cough, but I can see you’re getting weaker. I only say that because I don’t want you carrying all my worries on your shoulders.
Mama, I’m already worried. Hiding it from me won’t change anything. The nurse said you must eat first, even if it’s only a little. I’m not hungry. The medicine has left a bitter taste in my mouth. That isn’t a reason to stop eating. Just try a few spoons for my sake. What did you prepare today? Pap, and there’s fresh bread beside it. I know it’s your favorite.
Pap again? Yes, Mama. Until you get stronger, this is what the doctor recommends. You should eat the bread instead. I’ve already eaten. Mama. What exactly did you eat, Amaka? Tell me the truth. I wanted you to eat first. I’ll eat after you’re done. You always say that, but you never do.
