Lucas had not simply made a selfish decision.

He had told my mother I authorized it, knowing she would accept suffering rather than create a disagreement in my marriage.

“I did not agree,” I told her.

“And you’re leaving this basement right now.”

She tried to stand, swayed, and sat back down.

I called her oncology clinic, explained the weakness and the overnight conditions, and asked whether she needed urgent assessment.

The nurse advised a prompt medical check, especially if she had fever, dizziness, or new symptoms.