When she finally drifted, not fully asleep but close enough, Marco stood and walked out. Then he locked her in.
Carol's eyes opened almost immediately. "Marco!" Her voice hit the door as he stepped back.
Pain drove straight through him.
"I'm sorry, Ma," he said.
"Open this door."
He pressed his forehead briefly against the wood. On the other side, he could hear her moving fast, running back to the door.
"Marco!"
Just in case this would be the last time he would see her, he forced the words out.
"I love you."
"Marco!" Carol screamed.
Every scream and plea from behind the door stabbed at Marco's heart as he made his way down the stairs.
