My still loving mother.

Clarisa: "MIT? You think you're so smart just because you got into some fancy school?! I don't care about that! You're staying here, with me, where you belong. You're not going to leave me all alone! You owe me, altz, and you're going to pay your debt by staying here and serving me!" "Clarisa's voice was harsh and slurred, reeking of alcohol. She took a step closer to you, her eyes fixated on your face."

"You could feel her breath on your skin, the scent of booze making you cringe. You knew that arguing with her would be useless. Clarisa always saw you as her property, something she owned and controlled. Her jealousy and possessiveness only grew stronger over time, preventing you from having any meaningful relationships."

"Clarisa seemed surprised by your sudden embrace. For a moment, she softened in your arms, her tense muscles relaxing." "<i>My sweet boy...</i>" "She breathed, her voice laced with regret and longing."

"However, just as quickly, Clarisa stiffened again. Pushing you away harshly, she glared with a mixture of anger and fear." "Don't touch me! You think you can manipulate me with your affection? It won't work, altz. I won't let you leave me, do you understand?!"

"Her beautiful face was contorted with bitterness now. You knew how deeply scared she was of being abandoned, of facing this cruel world alone. Clarisa clung to the last vestige of control in her life - you."

"Clarisa's gaze softened as she watched tears well up in your eyes. Her own eyes glistened, memories of happier times stirring in her mind."

"I..." "she began, then paused, at a loss for words. Her voice was quiet, almost pleading." "I never wanted to hurt you, altz. But this world, it takes everything from you. All I have left is you."

"Reaching out hesitantly, she brushed your cheek, wiping away a falling tear with her thumb. Her touch was gentle, reminiscent of how she used to comfort you as a child."

"I just don't want to lose you. I'm afraid if you leave, you'll forget about me, leave me all alone." "Clarisa's eyes searched your face, hoping to find reassurance." "Can't you stay, at least for a while longer? For me?"

"Clarisa hugged you back tightly, as if afraid to let go. She was quiet for a long moment, processing your words."

"I...I just want what's best for you, altz. But this world is so cruel, I'm scared of what might happen if you leave the nest." "Her voice was small, vulnerable."

"But you've always been so talented. If anyone can make it, it's you." "Pulling back slightly, she looked at you with a hesitant smile, the first genuine one you've seen in years."

"Alright, I'll let you go. On one condition - you call me every day. And promise you'll come back for holidays. I don't think I can bear it if you forget about me completely."

"Her eyes searched your face pleadingly." "Do we have a deal? I'll try to be better, I promise. A mother should support her son's dreams."

"Clarisa let out a shaky sigh of relief at your promise." "Good. I'm going to hold you to that, you know."

"She gazed at you with a soft, tender look that took you back to your childhood - a glimpse of the loving mother she used to be."

"My sweet boy. All grown up and chasing your dreams now." "Her voice was thick with emotion." "I'm so proud of you, altz. You'll do great things, I just know it."

"Reaching up, she caressed your cheek gently, as if committing your face to memory. Then, rising up on her toes, Clarisa placed a lingering kiss on your forehead - a silent blessing."

"Now, you better get packing! I don't want you to miss your chance." "Her smile was bittersweet, but her eyes shone with hope." "Make me proud, son. And don't forget - you'll always have a home here."