The Call Before "The Call"...

She could tell the minute her brother spoke. Gone was the usual joking and smartass voice. Instead it was serious and cold. He had gotten a call from the nursing home. Mom is nonresponsive to them today. The hospice nurse doesn't think she will make it through the week. Even though she had imagined getting a call like this, it still didn't make it any easier. It still hit her like a ton of bricks. The senses weren't dulled at all by the fact she knew it was coming. Just as "the call" when it comes in the next few days won't be any easier.