If we're assuming that this woman is "in bed," as is stated two lines before... by propping it up on a pillow.
Maybe she's sick/dying? and that's causing both of them a lot of pain/conflict?
If we're assuming that this woman is "in bed," as is stated two lines before... by propping it up on a pillow.
Maybe she's sick/dying? and that's causing both of them a lot of pain/conflict?