My sister wants me to forgive our brother before Mum dies

Dear Delyara, My brother stole money from me ten years ago and lied about it until evidence made lying impossible. We have not spoken since. Mum is dying now. My sister says her final wish is to see all three children together. She keeps sending messages: “Do it for Mum.” I hate that sentence. I love my mother. I sit beside her bed, feed her ice chips, help nurses turn her. I am not willing to pretend what my brother did never happened simply because death has created a deadline. Yesterday, Mum asked in a weak voice whether I would speak to him. I said, “I don’t know.” She looked disappointed. That image is now destroying me. My brother has offered to apologize in person. I do not know whether I want an apology or distance. Families treat forgiveness like a hospital medication: give it before time runs out. But my pain does not know Mum’s prognosis. I am terrified she will die thinking I chose anger over her peace. I am equally terrified I will force myself into reconciliation and spend years resenting that even my boundary had to become something I surrendered at her bedside.