Empowerment Against All Odds: A Fearless Female Battle for Drisdale

By Christina Lim

The novel will appeal to readers because of its high stakes and pure message. If Amy West fails, Drisdale will continue to fall apart and lives will be lost in one way or another. Readers will find themselves asking how? How will she assist a town in a district the society has turned its back on? How will she upkeep the school and hospital as only one person? How will she maintain her drive with the world against her? With the constant questioning will bring the desire to keep turning pages to discover whether Amy West will fail or succeed. The refreshing message surrounding undying kindness and why it’s important to not give up on those who need you will also bring warmth to readers’ hearts.

In this novel, there’s an element of magic in Amy’s strange abilities. Other stories with the theme of ‘helping those in need’ are either very grounded in reality or solely fictitious. We read stories about fairies and super heroes that teach kindness and helpfulness all the while but in this book, there’s a perfect blend of realism, mystery and magic that makes for an intriguing read.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Partridge Publishing Singapore
• Release date: May 21, 2023
• ISBN: 9781543774238

Christina Lim

CHRISTINA LIM - CDMP has a Honours Degree of Bachelor of Business Studies, Certified Digital Professional.

Book preview

CHAPTER 1

Bubbly champagne erupted from the bottle once the cork flew out.

Hands gathered to applaud this and some guests laughed. They quickly came forwards to have their portions poured by the lady of the evening.

Amy filled Mr Francis’s glass and smiled when he told her a joke. She looked up at David, who stood behind her, hand on her back and teeth bared in a grin.

If you can’t handle it, you can always leave your leftovers with me, Mr Francis. David said, summoning laughter from all guests. Many had already sat back at the dining table. Dessert would be brought forwards from the kitchen soon.

Amy took her seat next to David and sipped her sparkling drink. She licked her lips and then rested her glass beside her plate. Soft conversations buzzed from her guests. Most were at least twice her senior as they were acquaintances of her parents. Here and there was the occasional youngster she had invited personally, but the majority were her parents’ crowd. They needed them all here for this glorious occasion. Proud, she thought while watching her father. The man was standing, tapping the side of his glass with his fork.

Okay, okay, settle down. I see Amy’s already had a sip of her beverage, the greying man said. He was referred to as Dr West by many, but she knew him as the man with all the answers. Her father, the greatest medical practitioner to ever arise from this district. But she didn’t need to convince anyone of his capabilities. His awards and accolades spoke for themselves.

Amy used her napkin to wipe her mouth. She apologised for sipping early as her guests chuckled.

No, no it’s fine. Tonight, is your night. Her dad smiled and then raised his glass. I’d just like to say a few words to express my . . . my pride in my daughter.

Amy’s cheeks heated, and she felt a squeeze at her shoulder from David. Her heart rate picked up as her dad continued.

Her father’s eyes locked with hers. You know, she had always been interested in helping people from young. Said she wanted to be a nurse, but you all know me. He opened his arms as soft laughter emerged. "I knew she was capable of much more. He stirred his champagne. So of course, I did what any good parents would do and encouraged her to aim higher. Nursing . . . He screwed his face in disapproval. Anyone can do that. Any old average high-schooler can get a degree in nursing and work at a hospital but being a doctor? He raised a finger. That takes brains. And I knew she had them. Not only that but a keen awareness of the human body that not even I was blessed with."

Amy felt the adoring stares of the guests. She smiled at them and joined her hands on her lap under the table. It’s nothing special, Dad.

You say that but I’ve seen you. Don’t forget that you worked with me during your residency. The man smiled. "Anyway, I’m glad that she not only pursued medicine but also placed at the very top of her class. It’s not everyone who can achieve valedictorian status while studying medicine. But of course, Amy did because . . . she’s incredible. Absolutely remarkable, he spoke over the applause that rolled in. And I can’t wait to work alongside her at my hospital. I know she’ll do wonderful things."

Amy forced a smile as the claps went on. David planted a kiss on her cheek. Thank you, she said.

Is there anything you’d like to add, Amy? You’ve been rather quiet on your big night. Her mother’s hands were on the table. Her dad had just taken his seat beside her.

Amy saw the waiters and waitresses bringing in their dessert. I . . . actually do. She took a deep breath and got up. The looks of pride and admiration were overwhelming.

With hands joined in front of her, Amy began. Dad, I am so happy for all your encouragement.

The man nodded.

Amy went on. "You and Mom have given me everything and more, and you two are the entire reason that I am who I am. She rubbed her palms together. Yes, I did complete my own fair share of hard work on my own, but I know I wouldn’t have been able to attend Starks University if it wasn’t for your contribution, so thank you. She smiled when they mouthed a You’re welcome. And of course, everyone here has also supported me in one way or another, so thanks to all of you too. She felt a pat on her back from David and then looked at the table. A slice of chocolate cake had just been placed before her. I know that everyone expects me to join Dad at the hospital, and while I do intend on doing so later . . ."

Amy. Her father stretched out her name as if warning her. He sat forwards.

Amy raised her eyes to meet his. It’s not the direction I’m heading in right now. She ignored the questioning mumbles. I’d spoken to Dad about this a few times, and he’s always been against it but . . . She noted how quickly her father’s pride morphed to disappointment. He was using his finger to massage his eyebrow while her mom folded her arms. I have to follow my heart. She took a deep breath. So, I’ve sent out an application to join a program with Red Aid that sets out to the impoverished nation of Mavia next month. They need doctors over there, and I think I’d be perfect for what they’re plan –

Her father raised his hand and got up.

Amy’s shoulders fell as he left the dining hall without another word, casting an awkward silence upon their table of guests.

She exhaled with burning eyes.

Amy, come on. David whispered. He showed his own displeasure with a shake of his head. Her mom was already on her way after her dad.

Amy’s eyes followed her as the woman left. Excuse me. She left her seat.

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When Amy met her parents at the lobby, they were in quiet discussion that drew the attention of bystanders. An elderly woman seated on a floral couch was watching and guests standing at the front desk bent their backs to catch glimpse. Even the desk worker seemed engaged.

Amy walked briskly against the tiled floor, the heels of her brand-name silver stilettos clicking. David had bought these as a graduation gift. They were one of many she had received for the occasion.

Dad. Amy whispered as she approached. Their voices were lowered, but their gesticulations were enough to cause a scene. She held her head down to avoid stares. Mom.

Her parents glared her way. Judging by her father’s hand on the door handle, Amy could infer what had happened. Would her father really have left her big dinner because he disagreed with her choice?

Amy, darling. Her mother plastered on a smile. It’s good that you’re here. Now we can all talk about your strange outburst of earlier.

Amy opened her mouth, but the door pushed open from outside. She and her parents stepped back to allow the older gentleman some room, and he went on his way to the desk. Not before staring them down of course. We shouldn’t do this here, Amy thought. There was nothing strange about it. She opened her arms. I’ve made up my mind, she said to her father.

The man rubbed a hand down his face and frowned. His brows were thick with grey and his forehead lined with wrinkles. He put hands at his hip under his slick coat. You’ve made up your mind?

Amy grew rigid at his tone. Dad, you know that I –

Amy Elizabeth West, he whispered with teeth out. He pointed a finger at her. "Amy, I agree that the poor in Mavia need attention and care, but there are people for that and . . . they’re not like us, he huffed. Amy, we do our part. How much do I donate to Red Aid?"

Amy had a lump in her throat. I . . . I know you give plenty, but you said it yourself, Dad. I have a gift for medicine and care, she said, her brows knitting and her voice cracking. I have these amazing senses, and I just . . . – she looked at her hands – "I know that you’ve always wanted me by your side, but, Dad, there’s just something in me that needs to help people who can’t afford to step foot in a hospital like yours."

Her father’s face could have been stone. "So? There are people out there already who help them. And you don’t need to be one of them." He poked her chest.

Okay, honey, just calm down. Her mother held her dad’s shoulder.

Amy shook her head at his anger. You do hear yourself, right? You’re trying to make it seem like I’m being wild or irresponsible when in actuality, what I want is completely reasonable and, and –

"You told me you would join me, Amy. He dropped his hushed volume. You going behind my back to run off and announcing it in front of our family and friends after you agreed to stay here and help me is just downright offensive," he spat with a frown.

Amy stepped back, her eyes welling up as they squinted. How could it be when I’ve been saying my whole life that it’s what I’ve wanted to do? To help people –

"You can help people by donating. The man threw his hands up. I just said that. Why do you insist on running off? Why should a talent like you leave this land of opportunities to grovel in dirt and, and faeces when you have everything here? Yes, I know that you can receive acknowledgement for helping those Mavian people but . . . His words seemed to fail him. The wrinkles near his eyes increased as he squinted in what Amy could only read as abhorrence. Staying here is best. Best for you and your incredible medical prowess." He held both Amy’s hands.

Amy allowed a teardrop to fall.

Her mother came closer and rubbed her shoulder. You understand what your father is saying, don’t you? We just think that your amazing mind and talents will be better off here. Where they can be given the praise, honour and rewards they deserve. And of course, your skills will be greatly appreciated at West Hospital. With you, we won’t only be the best private hospital in the country but the one with a hidden gem who can save lives with – Just as her mom had reached for her side with her other hand, Amy pulled herself from both their hold and flung the door open.

Amy? she heard her dad call behind her.

Amy wiped her eyes and searched for her car.

Her parents continued to call on her name as her feet ran down the concrete stairs. She walked past a couple on their way up and stepped onto the sidewalk. It was chilly tonight, and she had left her jacket inside. Pools of water on the roadside reflected the glow of streetlights into her eyes.

She spotted her vehicle ahead and made haste to reach it.

Amy pressed a button on her key and grabbed the door handle to the driver’s seat. She was just moving in when her father appeared and pulled her out.

"Amy, what is wrong with you? he yelled. We were having a discussion." Her mother was beside him.

What? So, it’s okay for you to humiliate me at dinner by storming out, but I can’t do it to you while you basically prove everything I ever thought of you wrong? Amy barked with tears brimming again.

Her parents seemed lost for words, and that only deepened the wound in her heart.

Amy sobbed and hated herself for it. What was this pathetic display? What was wrong with her? I just want them to . . . "You don’t care about anything but looking good and –and getting rewards. That’s all it’s ever been with you. I wanted to be a nurse, but you forced me into doctoring because you thought it would look better for you to have a doctor daughter. That was all it was, and that’s all it’s ever been. She sniffed as she continued, noticing the indignance on their faces. You don’t care about the people you save, Dad. All you care about is being the best so people can tell you that you are and reward you. That and money. Those are the only –"

"I’ve heard enough. Amy West, you cannot behave as if you are the victim when you made a promise to me, your father, that you would –" He tried to raise his voice over hers as she kept speaking.

Amy’s face was twisted and red. "Stop trying to act like it’s about that when it’s not! Dad, you and Mom . . . and – and everyone in there is . . . She flung her hand towards the hotel. You’re all just . . . The tension in her muscles suddenly released, and she lost all will to argue. I have to go. I need to check my email and lie down or something." She went back to her door and climbed into her seat.

Her father came up to her window after she locked herself in her car. He hit the glass. "Amy you cannot . . . don’t make it sound that way! I just want what’s best for you! You’ve been raised in a sheltered environment your entire life. What makes you think you’d be able to handle . . ."

Amy could hardly hear him with the window between his voice and her ears. She chucked her key in and turned it to rev the engine. Her mom was also slapping her glass and demanding that she come out and comply to their wishes. I can’t. I really can’t.

When the engine finally started, she rolled out of her parking space and into the dark street. She wiped her eyes of tears and turned on the radio to drown out her racing thoughts.

Somehow, even with the old country hit playing and her doubts running a mile a second through her brain, she still heard it. That inner voice that spoke to her. Whenever she brought it up to close family and friends, they’d pass it off as a burning desire she had. A desire to help those in need.

But no. It was a little deeper than that. So deep that Amy sometimes feared it and what it made her capable of.

You have to go. Help. Use me to help. Whoever you can and however you can. Just help.

CHAPTER 2

She couldn’t go home to West Manor, so she rented a room. Starlight Motel was less than extravagant but would have to do.

Amy had been in a world of her own while driving through town with the voice in her mind. Before coming here, she’d purchased some clothes at a store nearby.

She flung her bags of clothing on the bed and sat beside them. Pulling one bag to her lap, Amy peeped in and retrieved some sweats. She thought of how she had left things and breathed out. I have to do what I have to do. With her family’s support or not. Her phone had been ringing off the hook, but no call had been answered. Even now it rang, the same contacts trying to reach. Her dad, mom, David. Persistent they were, but she was the same.

Amy rubbed her forehead with her fingers. What she needed was to focus. Focus on Red Aid and wait for their response. It should come in soon, so for now I’ll just get out of this dress. She kicked off her heels and basked in the relief. Her feet could finally breathe. This was the right move. Her restricting clothing was adding to her frustration. She would remove them to alleviate stress and then rest easy.

After changing, she put her dress in a shopping bag and sat comfortably in sweats. She held the remote to a small flatscreen. It sat on a table at the foot of the bed. Its headboard was pressed against the same wall as the bathroom door.

Amy hung her legs off the edge and swung them. This channel displayed foolish cartoons meant for kids, but with her mind so crowded, the distraction was appreciated.

Rather than ringing, her phone suddenly buzzed.

Her heart skipped a beat as she imagined an email from Red Aid coming in. It had been a week already. They were due to respond. If this was an acceptance email, then this crappy night would end in triumph.

She picked up her phone while holding her breath.

In her notification bar was a text. How disheartening. Were her parents getting creative?

Amy opened it and wasn’t too surprised. David.

Her mood softened. But he told me off at dinner too. After voicing her dreams to him in college, David had also believed that someone like her would be better off elsewhere and had agreed with her parents’ views. He had admitted she was noble, though, and had voiced his admiration for her passion. But in the end, his beliefs didn’t align with hers.

She still could not grasp their thinking. All about the glory and money.

Despite her frustration, Amy read his messages.

It started with questions as to what she was thinking and why she had stormed out and then changed to an apology for his response to her announcement. The words I’m worried. Where are you? were his final text.

The apology stood out. David. Amy’s shoulders dropped as she reread the message.

She contemplated her next move for a second and then typed. The message she sent gave her location. Would he come looking for her?

She waited a minute before another message popped up.

I’ll come meet you tomorrow to talk. Got some stuff to take care of tonight.

Amy used her thumb to stroke the side of her phone and then tossed it away. It landed on the other side of her mattress. She slumped forwards and rested her elbows on her lap, holding her face. Come meet me for what, David? Would he tell her parents where she was? Would they come looking for her? If they had no intention of providing support, then she would prefer if they stayed away. All of them. Even David. No matter how sweet he could be.

The young woman fell to her back and spread her arms, staring at the ceiling fan. It was off, but after a minute, she imagined it to rotate.

Amy stretched a hand to reach but gave up. She let her arm flop and her eyes fell shut. I’m not being stupid. She certainly wasn’t. Everyone else was treating her like a fool. If this was how she wished to utilise her skills, then they should let her.

Sleep slipped in but that voice returned.

Help them. Just help.

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If you want another chance, just ask me tonight, baby. Ask me tonight, baby. Ask me tonight . . .

The tune had served as background music to her dream until the vibrations hit. Amy registered her alarm song as what it was and dragged herself out of slumber.

Ah . . . She held the side of her head after raising it off her pillow.

She expected to see her king-sized canopy bed from home but was reminded of her situation by the narrow mattress. Beige walls and brown carpets greeted her once she sat up.

Amy sighed and then reached for her phone between the pillows. She opened it up to shut off her alarm and then rubbed her eye. It was bright in here despite the drawn curtains. Her phone clock read 6am.

She sat at the edge of her bed and swiped down her screen. Messages. Her parents had sent them. She scrolled through and wasn’t surprised that an apology was nowhere in sight.

Amy was putting her phone away to head to the bathroom when an email caught her attention.

Her eyes widened as she recognised the sender, and her thumb tapped dozens of times to open the notification. It’s them. Oh my god, oh my god, oh . . .

She could hardly breathe with her eyes reading at breakneck speed.

Your application was indeed impressive but . . . Amy paused as the whisper left her lips. The rest . . . was not very appealing. This time around we won’t require your assistance. We wish you all the best . . . Red Aid. She looked forwards at the door to her room, speechless.

A full minute went by, and she was still silent.

Oh no . . . Her vision grew watery.

Amy read it over and held her mouth. The corners of her lips stretched but not in a smile. She couldn’t hold in her pain but was somehow simultaneously too devasted to let it out. No, no, no, nooo. She recalled every second of last night’s argument and