Riley's POV
Mom appears in my doorway about five minutes later, clutching a small white pill between her fingers. "Please don't be upset with me, sweetheart. You need to sleep. All this studying isn't helping you heal right now. Your body needs rest." Her voice carries that pleading tone I've grown to recognize. She extends her hand, offering what I assume is some kind of sleep aid.
I exhale slowly, silently cursing Zoey for obviously telling Mom about my sleepless state. Taking the pill from her palm, I make a promise I have no intention of keeping - that I'll swallow it once I finish this math assignment. Mom hesitates, clearly wanting to argue, but eventually nods and retreats from my room.
The moment she's gone, I place the pill on my nightstand without a second thought. Sleep isn't an option right now. I can't afford to be unconscious and vulnerable. My body needs to stay alert.
