Do you need me to adjust the heat?” Lisa asked, briefly locking eyes with Margaret. “I’m fine, dear,” Margaret replied, though comfort was far from her mind. Margaret’s eyes narrowed, the small suitcase in the trunk containing what she had considered essential from a lifetime of possessions. Photo albums, her wedding ring, some treasured books, and a week’s worth of clothes. The rest of her belongings had been sorted through over the past month. Some donated, others given to neighbors, and the most precious distributed among relatives.

Margaret knew this day would come. Her health had been steadily deteriorating since her fall last winter. The doctor’s words echoed in her mind. “You shouldn’t live alone anymore, Margaret.”