"Mama!" Asher's voice is pure joy, and it tears my heart clean in half. "When are you coming home? Uncle Thorne says soon but that's what you said too."
I press my free hand against my mouth to muffle the sob trying to escape. "I know, baby. I'm sorry. The grown-ups I'm helping need me a little longer."
"But you promised." His voice goes small, hurt. "You said three days."
"I know I did. And I'm so sorry." Tears are streaming down my face now, silent and hot. "But I promise I'll come back as soon as I can. Can you be brave for me a little longer?"
"I guess." He doesn't sound convinced. "I miss you."
"I miss you too. So much. Be good for Uncle Thorne, okay? And remember that Mama loves you more than anything in the whole world."
"Love you too, Mama."
"Can you put Uncle Thorne back on
