“How are you feeling, Mom?” “Okay, I guess.” Mildred surveyed the room. “How long was I in surgery?” “About thirty minutes. But then you were in recovery for nearly two hours.” “Wow. I must have really been knocked out. What time is it?” Karen checked her watch. “A little after five.” “Oh, my goodness. I can’t believe I’ve been asleep all this time.” Karen looked confused. “Mom, you’ve been awake. They brought you here to your room over an hour ago.” “Did I say anything to you when they brought me in?” “Yeah. You said you were thirsty. So, I gave you some Sprite. And then I fed you a few crackers.” “Oh, yeah. Now I remember. My mouth so dry that I could barely swallow or even chew.” “But the Sprite helped.” “That’s right. Now it’s coming back.” Mildred thought for a few seconds. “Boy, when they put you out, you’re really out.” “That’s what you want, Mom. It’s a lot better than feeling the knife.” “But I don’t even remember rolling into the surgery room.” “You don’t?” “No. I remember saying goodbye to you and then…nothing.” “That stuff works fast.” “Oh, Karen, what about Ed? You need to get home and make your husband some dinner.” “He can order pizza, Mom. It’s no big deal.” “No, no, Honey. You get on home. I’m fine. Come see me in the morning.” “Are you sure? We could come up tonight.” “I appreciate that, Honey, but I’ll probably be sleeping anyway. If you come you’ll just be waking me up.” “Well…okay—if you’re sure.”