The Direct Care Worker Is Going To Bathe The Consumer -

Maria washed her feet last. She always saved the feet for last because Esther would sometimes cry. Today there were no tears, just a long, slow blink that felt like a thank-you.

"Esther? It’s Maria. Time for your shower." the direct care worker is going to bathe the consumer

"Remember that tango?" Maria asked as she rinsed Esther’s back. "You and that dark-haired man. His hand on your waist." Maria washed her feet last

Esther’s left eye twitched. A sound—half grunt, half sigh—escaped her lips. That’s a no, Maria thought. Or maybe a yes. Or maybe just the weather changing. "Esther

Back in the bed, propped against pillows, Esther looked toward the window. The stripes of light had shifted. Maria sat on the edge of the mattress and spooned applesauce into Esther’s mouth. One bite. Two. On the third, Esther’s good hand rose, trembling, and touched Maria’s cheek.

No answer. Just the low hum of the radiator and a soft rustle of sheets.