We were so relieved to find Alyssa. After Mom’s hip surgery, we needed someone reliable, someone who could offer the care and attention I couldn’t provide while juggling my career and family. Alyssa, with her bright smile and professional demeanor, seemed like the answer to our prayers. She was young, energetic, and had glowing references. My mother, initially hesitant about having a stranger in the house, warmed up to her almost immediately. I truly thought we were fortunate. The first few weeks were smooth. Alyssa handled everything with grace, assisting Mom with her exercises, preparing meals, and keeping her company. They even started taking daily ‘walks’ around the neighborhood, which Mom seemed to enjoy. Or at least, that’s what she told me. But soon, I started noticing a subtle shift in my mother’s behavior. She became withdrawn, almost secretive. Her eyes, once sparkling with life, now held a shadow of fear.
The Sunday ‘walks’ were the worst. Every time they returned, Mom looked visibly shaken, her hands trembling slightly. When I asked how it went, she would offer a strained smile and say, \
