Doorbell rang

Ms. Thompson gently guided the mother to the edge of the bed, helping her swing her legs over the side. She then carefully stood her up, supporting her by the elbows as she found her balance. The mother's eyes never left the floor, her face still flushed with embarrassment. Ms. Thompson's hands remained on her elbows, steadying her as she took a few tentative steps forward.

As they made their way to the living room, Ms. Thompson's eyes scanned the space, ensuring that everything was in order. The mother's gaze remained downcast, her shoulders slumped in defeat. Ms. Thompson's grip on her elbows tightened slightly, offering what little reassurance she could.

The doorbell rang, its sudden, sharp tone piercing the quiet atmosphere of the room. Ms. Thompson's hands instinctively tightened on the mother's elbows, offering a reassuring squeeze as she glanced towards the door. The mother's gaze, still fixed on the floor, didn't waver, but her body tensed slightly, as if the sound had startled her.

Ms. Thompson's eyes darted towards the clock on the wall, her mind quickly calculating the likelihood of unexpected visitors. She had been expecting a delivery of adult diapers and wipes, but she hadn't anticipated it arriving so soon.