This story successfully blends elements of the supernatural with a human core. The protagonist's journey through the mall, underscored by a pervasive sense of mystery, is really effective. The transitions between her mundane reality and the encounters with enigmatic characters are handled with a deft touch, creating a seamless blend of the ordinary and the otherworldly. The dialogue between characters, especially in the latter part of the story, is poignant and loaded with emotional weight, effectively conveying the thematic concerns of love, loss, and the passage of time.

While the narrative is intriguing, I think there could be more clarity in the progression of events to help the reader better understand the shift from a realistic setting to a more metaphysical one. Exploring the emotional background and motivations of the protagonist more deeply could also potentially enhance empathy with the characters. Additionally, I think providing a little more context about the protagonist's past and her relationships could enrich the story's emotional impact and provide a stronger foundation for the themes explored.

Overall, I thought this story was a compelling exploration of themes related to mortality, memory, and maternal love. It successfully combines elements of fantasy with a strong emotional narrative to create a thought-provoking tale with an ending that leaves a lasting impression. Nice work!