[ WP ] A mortal mother , close to death , pays a visit to her immortal son .

He was always so strong, so healthy, so... perfect. Any mother would say that, I know, but John, my little Johnny, he was perfect. And unchanged. Always the same polite, intelligent, and loving boy. Always. 
 I open the door to his room. He's reading. I just stand there for a moment, breathing heavily. Maybe my condition was worse than I feared. When John hears me, he jumps to his feet and hugs me. `` Mommy, I did n't know you were coming to visit. You should be resting.'' `` There'll be plenty of time for that real soon, do n't you worry. Let me just sit down. I'm not in such a good shape 
 anymore.'' `` Do n't say that.'' I look at that familiar face, so full of worry for his old, tired mother. `` Oh, come on, you know it's true.'' `` It's not an easy thing to accept. Especially for...'' `` For someone like you.'' He looks at the floor. Even after all this time, his condition is n't easy to accept. `` John, look at me.'' He hesitantly does so. `` This is n't the worst thing you'll ever face.'' `` Then what is?'' `` I do n't know, but the death of an old, dying woman is n't it. You have a whole life ahead of you.'' That sentence made him angry, I could see that. `` What if I do n't want it? Who could ever want this?'' `` Well, it's here, no matter your wishes, and you'll make the most of it. You understand me?'' The look of a deep sadness on his face softened me. `` Just promise me one thing, and then I can die in peace.'' `` Please, do n't say that.'' `` Make the most of your life, no matter how long. Can you promise me that?'' Tears were running down his cheek. `` I promise, Mom.'' `` Good. That was all I needed.'' My last bits of strenght left me as I crumbled to the floor, peaceful knowing my boy, my Johnny, will be safe. Always.
