Samantha sat with her sister Jeneva in the car outside their grandmother’s house, preparing to go inside with Pooter. Samantha was drained from travel and emotionally bracing for the visit. Jeneva coached her to enter quietly and allow time for their mother to acclimate to meeting her.

Jeneva asked about Samantha’s date with Xavier after noticing the Rush Veterinary Hospital hoodie. Samantha admitted she liked Xavier and that the date had been very good, but she resolved not to dwell on it, focusing instead on their mother and her new responsibilities.

Samantha tried to manifest a positive outcome, imagining their mother recognizing her and welcoming her home. She also envisioned settling into life in California, distracting herself from thoughts of Xavier and Minnesota.

They entered the house, where their mother sat with their grandmother watching television. Jeneva gently introduced Samantha. Their mother looked at Samantha with a flat expression and showed no recognition, which Samantha had not anticipated despite knowing about medications and sedation.

As Samantha approached and greeted her, Pooter mewed from the carrier, momentarily drawing their mother’s attention. Samantha noticed how much their mother had aged and how unlike herself she appeared without her usual grooming, seeming faded and exhausted.

Samantha sat close and identified herself, hoping for a spark of recognition. After a brief, searching look, their mother asked, “Who are you?” confirming that she did not recognize Samantha and highlighting the depth of her cognitive decline.