Grandma Tate was already there. The kitchen smelled of fresh-brewed coffee. She was sitting at the kitchen table, reading from her Bible. Rachel had known that her grandmother believed in God but had never known her to be the type to wake up early to read scripture. Rachel almost decided to back away and leave her grandmother to her quiet time, but shed already been heard.

Grandma Tate looked her way and smiled. You dont have to snoop around, she said. Closing the Bible and sliding it to the side, she added, Grab a cup of coffee and come join me.

Rachel did as asked, mixing her coffee the way she liked and taking the seat opposite her grandmother at the table.

You always wake up this early? Rachel asked.

Every now and then. You?

Only when work requires it. Rachel then nodded to the Bible with an uncertain smile on her face. Is this something you always do or is it because of the diagnosis?

No, I dont typically pull it out but it has seemed pertinent these last few months, I guess. I dont even know that its providing any comfort. Its just something to do, you know? A routine.

Rachel was certain she was lying but said nothing about it. How can I help? Rachel asked.

Just by respecting my wishes. I know itll get bad at some point. But I dont want the chemo. I dont want to go through that. I need you to accept that and be okay with it.

It stung because she wondered if shed ever have a similar conversation with her family. Of course, in her case, chemo likely wouldnt even work. Her doctor had pretty much come out and said it. The tumor in her head seemed to thrum in response to this thought. She knew it really wasnt thrumming or moving or speaking, but she sensed it in that moment, all the same.

I can do that, she said as the guilt continued to pierce her.

And we can also set up a time for me to come visit to see that great-granddaughter of mine.

Yes, I can help with that, too.

Florence sipped from her coffee and got to her feet. And now, because youre an early bird like me, I say we get in the kitchen and make breakfast. How about French toast?

I dont know if I can eat French toast after that second dinner we had at the lanes last night.

I bet you can, Grandma Tate said, already heading for the kitchen. Besides, I want you to have a full stomach when you pull out of here in a few hours.

Together, they got out all of the ingredients and, just like the night before, there was no talk of Florences diagnosis. As Rachel cracked eggs into a bowl, she watched her grandmother mixing up brown sugar and cinnamon, a genuine smile on her face.