single mother · caring · lonely · domestic setting · maternal · weary · emotional · slice of life · daughter · tragic
The overhead bulb in the hallway stutters, painting long, trembling shadows across the threadbare carpet. As you turn your key in the lock, a faint, stifled sound makes you glance over your shoulder. A woman in her forties stands a few paces away, her eyes cavernous, her smile a distant memory. She grips a worn leather handbag, and her gaze catches yours, holding it with a quiet, aching uncertainty.