Through The Doors Of The Heart: Zibia Gasparetto & Lucius

By Zibia Gasparetto and By the Spirit Lucius

Most of us are totally blinded by social models of happiness. Everyone wants to be righteous and decent. As a result, we force ourselves to act against the impulses of our true nature. We think that we are doing our best, but in fact we are dragging ourselves into the valley of injustice and pain. Until one day, the audacity of a strong and lucid soul like Juliana's shows us that the true winner is the one who has the courage to silence the world within and walk through the doors of the heart.

• Language: English
• Publisher: World Spiritist Institute
• Release date: Jun 9, 2023
• ISBN: 9798223207382

Book preview

CHAPTER 1

Nothing is more pleasant than sitting at the water’s edge and watching the sunset on a summer day. The comings and goings of the waves mark the breath of life with their cadenced rhythm, the quiet sky is tinged with the last rays of sunlight that disappear over the horizon, meditation is favored establishing a moment of calm, introspection, intimate satisfaction, and majestic contemplation.

Juliana felt the magic of the afternoon and allowed herself to consciously savor those moments. She felt alive and overflow with joy, but at the same time she was feeling peaceful. Life was peace, joy, and safety.

Looking at the majestic and beautiful landscape, balanced and safe, with every living thing accurately fulfilling its functions. Suddenly, she felt the presence of a superior power, a driving force that handled everything with wisdom and promptness.

I’m part of that Nature, she though. This force is also in me. It controls my destiny, moves my body, and wakes my soul.

She got up and began to walk along the edge of the water feeling the contact of her feet on the wet sand and the cold water. She was happy. In those moments she had forgotten time, family, and friends.

They had been at the beach for two weeks, and whenever she could, she would get away from the general hustle and bustle to allowed herself moments of inner satisfaction. She was the daughter of wealthy parents. She had two brothers. Clóvis, the eldest, was a communications student, Vera, was nineteen years old, and had been taking the entrance exam for two years without to get into any college. Juliana was sixteen and had just started high school. She was brunette, slender, with dark, almond-shaped eyes and a fit body. She attracted attention wherever she passed.

Vera was also very beautiful. She had fair skin, with fine features that makes her looked more like Norma, and her mother. Besides, she was elegant and wears only clothes from famous labels. She was a fashionist and only dressed according to the occasion. She placed great value to customs and social life. On the other hand, Clóvis was passionate about cars and always drove at high speed. His father was a respected and wealthy physician and come from a traditional Paulista family. He liked to stand out among his colleagues. He also took part in congresses abroad, from which he possessed certificates that, duly framed, were part of the collection in his office’s waiting room.

They possess a beautiful house in Guarujá where they spent most of their January and mid-year vacations. When they didn’t go to Europe, they prefer going to the mountains to rest.

Juliana continued walking, bordering the water, immersed in her own immersed world, without paying attention to the people passing by. She didn’t like the bustle of the streets or the noises of the house where Clóvis was always surrounded by friends and the ‘loud sound’ that followed her brother and that made Norma interfere for the tranquility of the others.

Vera was always busy with social meetings. Juliana was different to everyone in the family. On many occasions, Norma talked with her husband about the strange behavior of her daughter.

She seems fine to me, answered Dagoberto. She eats and sleeps regularly.

Still, Berto, she keeps staying away from people, she has no friends. When family gets together, she doesn’t say a word. It’s not common at her age.

She’s just quiet, that’s it! It’s her personality. She inherited it of his great-uncle. He was also a recluse. That’s why he became a priest.

God no! I don’t want that child stuck in a convent. She’s so full of life. Do you still think she has nothing?

Dagoberto looked at her thoughtfully and then said, I could send her to Bueno for an appointment. He’s a good psychiatrist.

It’s no big deal. Maybe a psychologist would be a better idea. I’ve read about that; it can make a great improvement on people."

Dagoberto looked at her with irony.

Do you really believe that? It can’t be true. Do you really think that someone mediocre can solve a temper problem without medicine or deeper knowledge? No matter how you see it, behavior is hereditary, moods and emotions are created by the metabolic functioning of the body. Endocrinology is the key to everything. In time we will even be able to cure insanity. Psychology is a panacea that works by suggestion, like traditional healers. You don’t want to see Juliana with these adventurers. If she needs treatment, if she thinks she has a problem, take her to Bueno.

Norma was silent. Berto was radical and stubborn. When he set his mind on something, he did not change his mind. It was useless to try to show him otherwise. He had some enthusiastic friends who were doing the same analysis. But it was a long treatment, and soon she realized, these people went through crises, and she didn’t know how much of a good thing that was."

"What if Berto was right? After all, he was a well-known physician, a professor at the medical school, and apart from the general and surgical practice, he had a specialization in Endocrinology. He could be right.

I felt that Juliana shouldn’t go to a psychiatrist who would certainly give her some medication. She would like to find someone that could understand what was going on inside her daughter, to know why she was so different from girls of her age.

Juliana walked until she realized that the sun had already set and decided to go back. When she arrived home, it was already dark, and the stars were shining brightly in the sky. With a sigh of resignation, she went inside.

Norma was sitting in the living room looking at her, when suddenly she stood up and said, Juliana! Where have you been? You’ve been missing since lunch.

I went to the beach.

Until this hour? With whom?

Alone.

All this time?

Yes.

"I find it hard to believe. Why don’t you find a friend to keep you company? Esther has arrived and Mila has come with her. I saw the door of the house open earlier today.

Did Mila really come?

Yes.

I’ll take care of that tomorrow.

She’s your schoolmate. She likes to hang out with you. Why are you avoiding her?

Juliana sighed. She preferred being alone. Why didn’t her mother understand?

You are interrogating me, Juliana said. Since you ask, you know that I like to be alone. I want to think, feel, live. I want to be myself. For this I don’t need anyone. I would like you not to worry about me. I feel happy this way. Please, I’m on vacation, let me do what I like. Now I’m going to take a shower. Excuse me.

Norma sat down again, picked up a magazine and thought. These children! They never listen to the advice of the elders. They even rebel themselves when we try to help.

She had not failed to notice the look of disgust she gave her when she heard her words. It was clear that she didn’t like it. Worse for her. As a mother, she had to take care of her children’s problems.

The father was not skilled at such things. A pill, an injection, and that’s it, with those implements he could solve anything. Besides, he worked all day, he didn’t have time left. So, it was clear that it was she who had to look after their well-being.

Vera entered the room spreading delicate perfume in the air. Norma looked at her with satisfaction. She was as beautiful and impeccable as ever. She was wearing a very elegant green linen outfit.

Are you going out? said Norma.

Yes. Carlos will come to pick me up, we will go to Ines house to listen to music and have ice cream. The whole class will be there.

Excellent.

Vera looked at her wristwatch and sat down in front of her mother.

Is Clóvis going too? He rushed to dinner and left with Cláudio.

I don’t know, Mom. He doesn’t like our class very much. You know how he is. He finds a girl to entertain himself, or he gets together with his friends and go around the city, stopping here and there. Which it’s not my thing.

"He needs to come to his senses. When he goes out with his car, I always get on my nerves.

You shouldn’t worry. Clóvis likes to accelerate, but he drives well.

I know. But I don’t like to carry him around with me. I’m scared to death.

Is Dad out?

No. He’s reading in his room enjoying a rare moment of rest. What worries me is Juliana.

Why is that?

She is odd, different from girls her age. She doesn’t have friends, looks like a weirdo, and lives in the corners.

Vera shrugged and furtively check her watch.

She has a sad temper. I have been trying to teach her how to relate socially. It has been futile. The few occasions that she has been out with me, she has managed to disturb the sidewalk. She holds back, keeps quiet, is not considerate of others, disagrees with everything that we decide to do. Now, I won’t take her out anymore. No more embarrassment. Clara’s mother even commented, Your sister is always this withdrawn? Could it be that she is not enjoying our company? I almost died of shame. You know how polite Mrs. Branca is. Also Dr. André is a judge! A relative of a minister of state! I tried to apologize and swore to myself that I’ll never take Juliana anywhere ever again."

I understand. There must be something wrong with her. She isn’t normal.

Maybe she is still going through the process of adolescence. Some people take longer to mature.

Her father wants me to take her to Dr. Bueno.

It might be a good solution.

Do you think so?

I certainly do. Maybe a psychiatrist can help her.

Norma was silent for a moment, for she was absorbed in her thoughts. The doorbell rang. Vera stood up and said, It must be Carlos. Good evening, Mom.

Have fun, Vera.

She’s the one who knows how to enjoy life, Norma thought contentedly. She dresses well, is always among always among friends, in good company. She is a wise person who knows what she wants. Why weren’t the other two like that?

Juliana took a shower, got dressed and went to the pantry to find something to eat. The maid had already finished cooking dinner, so Juliana looked in the fridge for some goodies. She made a sandwich, opened a bottle of guaraná, and ate quietly. Then she went to the balcony and lay down in the hammock.

There was a glimpse of the starry sky from where she was standing. She let stayed there, enjoying that moment of calm, rare in her home. She fell asleep and dreamed. She felt free in space, flying over cities, whose lights, seen from above, blinked happily. Feeling light, lucid, and content. She saw herself in front of a door that opened to give her passage.

A woman was waiting for her with arms open, and Juliana plunged into them feeling immense happiness.

You came! What a joy!

I’ve missed you, answered Juliana. It has been hard for me to bear certain things.

The young and beautiful lady smoothed her hair with great affection.

I know

I’d like to go back!

Not now. You have planned everything so well! Remember that only good things are about to happened. My dear, when something bothers us, it is because we are not seeing the reality. Reality itself is the one who liberates us and opens the doors to understanding and happiness.

Juliana looked at her with love.

I know you are right, Dora. God always makes everything right. But it is hard to get used to the excess of noise, the useless conversations, the empty and passing ideas.

Dora smiled happily.

With God everything is easy. Remember. It is necessary to understand and respect each one’s ways of being. Each person is in their own range of understanding. If everything God does is good. How can you not accept a manifestation of God?

Juliana was startled.

I accept God.

If what you say is true, think and observe everything. Each being, each world, each state of consciousness, is a divine manifestation. Everything is God, and He exists in every universe. Only his power is active.

Even when someone doesn’t understand what’s best?

Even so. To think otherwise means to admit that there is something wrong in the work of creation. If everything was right, if each being is experiencing at the level that is useful and necessary, what does it matter if someone deceives or deludes himself or subverts certain values? The divine laws will act and teach us to discover new paths, more suitable and happier. Don’t you know that whatever our choice may be, all roads lead to God? There is only good, and we are all within this context. Nothing and no one will ever get out the road because God is everything and love sustains the harmony of life.

I feel embarrassed.

"Do not feel bad. Respect everything and everyone. Remember that to return to the arena of our conquests is to review situations, to dive into the depths of the soul, sometimes exposing small forgotten and unpleasant points that we prefer to ignore. However, as our soul grows and becomes enlightened, it will grow stronger, encouraging us to enlighten it.

Juliana bowed her head, she was moved. Dora continued.

I called you here to tell you that we will begin your task. We will always be by your side. Remember that and do not be afraid.

Juliana nodded smiling. She felt happiness and calmness.

Let’s go in. José wants to see you and coordinate everything. Hugging each other, the two entered another room.

Juliana suddenly found herself arriving at the house accompanied by Dora. They stopped near the hammock where she saw her sleeping body.

I have to go, said Dora. God bless you.

She kissed her gently on the forehead and Juliana woke up, still feeling Dora’s last words vibrating in her ears and a deep feeling of joy and happiness overflowing in her heart.

She sat up in the hammock trying to remember the dream. She still felt the excitement and happiness inside her. What a wonderful dream, was it really a dream? It seemed so real!

It really happened! she recognized it with conviction.

Juliana tried to remember the young woman’s words. She remembered parts of it. However, when she tried to remember what had happened in the other room memories had gone because she couldn’t remember anything.

She had spoken of God, was she a divine messenger? Juliana had heard stories of saints in the church who had been visited by them. Like St. Therese, St. Anthony.

But there’s nothing holy about me, she thought. Why would they visit me? I don’t want to be a nun. Being locked up in a cell is unbearable.

I have no vocation, she reasoned. Quite the opposite. I want to live love… to be loved. One day I will find someone who loves me and whom I love.

Juliana let’s go to sleep. I’ll close the door. You can’t be alone on the balcony. It’s late.

Juliana got up quickly and came in.

Good night, Mom! she said calmly.

Good night, Norma answered with a suspicious look.

She checked that all the windows were closed, turned off the lights and went to the bedroom to sleep.

CHAPTER 2

Norma got up from the armchair in which she was pleasantly seated and walked into the dining room, staring at the well-laid table. The new employee was doing very well.

Dagoberto was meticulous. He enjoyed eating at a tidy table and if anything went wrong, he would complain immediately so Norma got used to going to the table before dinner.

She was satisfied and started to survey the beautiful, lavishly furnished and tastefully decorated living room. She also loved living in luxury and comfort. She appreciated the house where they lived, took care of every detail with taste and whimsy. Despite from being very busy, Berto liked to entertain friends.

It was common for him to show up with one or two guests for dinner. It had been two weeks since they had returned from vacation and resumed their daily routine.

Vera entered the room carrying some books under her arm, elegant and impeccably dressed as always. She kissed her mother gently.

I need a shower, she said. I’m exhausted.

Don’t take too long. I don’t want to delay dinner.

Is Dad home yet?

Not yet.

I’ll be quick. I couldn’t bear to eat in this state.

You look great.

I feel tired. I’ll be ready before Dad gets here.

Okay. Don’t get too dressed up. We won’t have guests. Vera arched her eyebrows as she always did.

You won’t like to see me sloppy.

Hurry up and join us for dinner. When you’re ready, call Juliana from the bedroom.

Didn’t she have classes?

She went out earlier. She wasn’t feeling well. Maybe she caught a cold. She abused the ice cream in Guarujá.

Vera went upstairs and went straight to her room. Clóvis entered the room laughing loudl with two friends. When he saw his mother, he stopped and kissed her on the cheek.

Is dinner ready?

Yes, I’ll serve as soon as your father arrives. Clóvis grimaced.

I wanted to eat now. I’m starving.

Let’s wait. At least at dinner, the family should be together. They have time to clean up a bit or to dress better.

The boys greeted Norma with an amused gaze directed at Clóvis.

Turns out, Mom, we have a serious commitment now. I can’t wait. In that case, I’ll have something to eat on the street.

Your father won’t like it. You need to eat properly.

One day won’t hurt me. Let’s go.

Without bothering about Norma’s advice. Clóvis left with his friends.

It’s hard to raise children! she thought, annoyed.

When Clóvis was born, Berto was delighted. He made big plans for his son. He would be a great doctor. When he graduated, he would send him to study in Europe to specialize. Maybe in Switzerland or Germany.

But Clóvis feared medicine. He couldn’t see blood. He felt sick. They realized early that the boy had no vocation.

She knew Berto was frustrated by that. He dreamed of exchanging ideas, of nurturing his son’s career, of making him climb step by step towards professional fame.

However, to her chagrin, Clóvis didn’t like to study. He preferred sports. He loved running. This did not lead him to a profession. They wanted him to be responsible. He did not commit himself. Being under pressure, Clóvis opted to attend a communications school. His father was discouraged. To him, that career and nothing were the same thing. But Norma thought that at least, by attending a college, he might end up enjoying studying. She didn’t give up hope.

Norma knew that Berto didn’t like her son’s untidy and restless lifestyle. She did her best, at least, to make him look good. Such a difficult task! Instead of appreciating his studies, he loved to socialize with his classmates. He kept up with all the fads and eccentricities that appeared at school, which he kept cultivating with fervor to Norma’s exasperation.

When Berto arrived, he was accompanied by Dr. Morelli, his colleague at the hospital. Norma received them kindly.

I brought Morelli to have dinner with us. We have a case to study. Morelli smiled kindly.

Excuse the intrusion, Dagoberto insisted.

It’s a pleasure to have you with us, Dr. Morelli, said Norma.

No doubt tomorrow we will have a few minutes to talk. Mrs. Olga is on a trip, and he has been eating alone. Will dinner be long?

They’ll be serving the table in ten minutes. Is that okay?

Okay. Would you like to have a drink to relax?

You know I don’t drink. I’ll take a glass of water.

While Norma went out to take care of dinner, Dagoberto led his friend into the living room and invited him to sit in a nice armchair.

They discussed various hospital matters and as Dr. Morelli quietly sipped his glass of water, Dagoberto considered.

I’m concerned about Mrs. Ofelia’s case. I confess that I have tried everything, but I haven’t obtained any results. She doesn’t come out of the coma.

Do you think she has a chance to recover?

At first, I thought she would have a rapid decline. She came in poorly. However, now...

Have you changed your mind?

I’m not so sure. His status has remained unchanged.

I’d like to see her patient chart.

"I will show it to you tomorrow. Long story short, Dona Ofelia came to me some time ago complaining of insomnia, nervousness, and gastric disorders. I prescribed tranquilizers and ordered the usual tests. At first glance, it seemed to me to be a common case of neurovegetative dystonia. However, a week later, she was admitted into the hospital for a coma, without being able to find any cause.

And the tests?

I did them all. They revealed no plausible cause.

And the family?

She lives with her unmarried daughter who works to support the household. She didn’t tell us much. When she came home from work, she found her mother slumped in the living room.

She must have complained or felt something.

The daughter said she had spent the night without sleep. She felt nervous and depressed. She could not foresee what was going to happen.

Dr. Morelli was thoughtful for a few moments, then said, I would also like to examine her if I may. A truly strange case.

I came up with several hypotheses, but none were confirmed. I was going to ask you to look at it, maybe you can find the cause.

Norma entered the room.

Dinner is served. Please come in.

They were seated at the table when the two girls came downstairs. They greeted Dr. Morelli and kissed their father. They made themselves comfortable.

Will Clóvis be late? Dagoberto asked.

He apologized, he could not wait for dinner, he had an appointment.

Dagoberto was about to speak but changed his mind. He didn’t talk about family matters in the presence of other people.

During dinner, the conversation was pleasant. The two politely avoided talking about career issues instead they preferred to exchange ideas with the girls about studies and family life.

Vera, with willingness and skill, talked animatedly, while Juliana listened quietly. After dessert, Vera excused herself to leave. Juliana went to the bedroom and the two friends went to the living room where Norma ordered coffee to be served. Then, by making an excuse, she left them alone. She knew they liked to talk about their issues alone.

The two of them continued talking animatedly. They were surprised by the presence of Juliana. The young woman entered with a serious face. She approached the two who looked at her with astonishment. Her gaze seemed lost in a distant point as if she was hypnotized.

Dagoberto stood up.

Juliana, what’s wrong?

She didn’t seem to have heard him. She remained standing in front of him, while the doctor took her cold hand. She withdrew her hand with a firm gesture.

Don’t worry, she said. Everything is all right.

The two looked at each other without knowing what to do. Juliana smiled.

I came to help. Ofelia won’t die. It’s not her time. She needs someone to bring her back to her body. Take Juliana there and I’ll bring her back to life.

Dagoberto opened his mouth, but no sound was emitted. Had Juliana gone mad? It was Dr. Morelli who approached to the girl saying, you say you can cure her. Can you clarify how?

She has a stalker. That’s why she’s afraid to sleep so she won’t meet him when he leaves the body. He terrorized her and she left to escape. Right now, she is next to his body in the hospital, but she doesn’t return because she is afraid of him. He wants to cut her ties of life, but he cannot because his time has not yet come. I can convince him to leave. Then she will take back her body and come out of the coma.

Dagoberto was pale. He regretted not having insisted Norma to take Juliana to Bueno.

Dr. Morelli, who was staring at Juliana, said in a conciliatory voice, Okay. Now that you’ve spoken, you can leave. We’re going to think about it.

Juliana smiled again and then said, You don’t believe. It’s a pity. It would have saved you time and suffering. If you don’t want to take Juliana, ask other people. Those like her who have the gift of healing.

Juliana turned around and went to her room. The two followed her cautiously.

The girl lay down, closed her eyes and in a few seconds seemed to sleep peacefully. When Dagoberto indicated, they left the room.

Norma was waiting for them outside.

Did something happen?

Yes. Let’s talk downstairs. In the living room, Dagoberto asked his wife.

Did Juliana ever leave the house in her sleep saying things?

She sleepwalks. You know. From time to time, she gets up and walks around the house. She takes a walk and goes back to bed, always quietly. Has it happened again?

Now it has. Only she was talking nonsense. I was worried.

Did you ever mention Mrs. Ofelia’s case in front of her? Morelli asked.

No. You know, I never discuss my cases with the family.

She knew about the case. Could she have overheard our conversation before dinner?

Norma replied.

Of course not. She was in the room and didn’t come down. When I served dinner, she was still there. I had to ask Vera to go get her.

A very strange case happened here tonight, said Morelli.

I’m worried. She’s been very withdrawn lately. Norma came to tell me about it. I suggested taking her to Bueno for an appointment. I never worried about her sleepwalking. Many people have it without any prejudice. Now we must take action.

Morelli shook his head.

I’m sorry Dagoberto, but I’m really intrigued. Juliana never went to the hospital after Mrs. Ofelia was admitted?

Never. What would she do there?

I don’t know. I thought about the hypothesis that maybe Dona Norma came with her, and they went through...

No. I haven’t been to the hospital for a long time. Besides, we were in Guarujá.

You were impressed by the nonsense she said. Unfortunately, I am more concerned about her lack of control and her pathological state.

After all, what did she say? said Norma scared.

She talked about the case of a patient who was worrying us before dinner, Morelli said.

Norma’s jaw dropped in amazement.

How could she know that?

That’s what scares me. She said the name, the patient’s condition and even a possible cure, concluded Morelli.

It’s incredible! Juliana was never interested in medicine! Dagoberto looked at Norma with irritation.

Juliana said a lot of nonsense. To me, she’s seriously ill!

Calm down, Dagoberto, it’s no big deal. There are sleepwalkers who talk in their sleep and even show they know a lot of things when they’re in that state. But when they wake up, everything goes back to normal, and they don’t even remember anything. You don’t have to worry beforehand.

Dagoberto sighed.

Yes, it can be. We’ll see. But after all, tomorrow Juliana goes to Bueno for a check-up.

The next morning, Juliana woke up feeling fine and not remembering anything. But even so, Dagoberto spoke to Bueno to make an appointment.

Norma took Juliana to the appointment the afternoon of the same day. Dr. Bueno gave her a thorough clinical examination and talked with her a lot. He found nothing that would warrant treatment.

He spoke to Dagoberto in particular, citing the changes of adolescence. He advised that Juliana’s sleepwalking should not be given too much importance.

Norma felt calmer. After all, there was no reason to worry. Despite the strange incident, Juliana acts as usual. Her behavior had not changed.

At the hospital, Dr. Morelli was very interested. He couldn’t forget the way Juliana spoke with confidence as she expressed herself in a firm and clear voice. When he realized that Dagoberto was irritated by the situation, he tried to restrain himself, but in fact he was intimately interested in the case.

He went to see Ofelia, examined her carefully, studied the results of her examinations. The cause of her problem couldn’t be found.

I would like to bring Juliana here, see what happens. However, Dagoberto would never agree. He himself is not sure what to expect from this. Perhaps he wants to find an answer to this strange case.

He wanted to talk to his friend about Juliana, but only managed to find out the result of the appointment with Bueno.

He preferred to wait. Surely, he would have another opportunity to go to his friend’s house and then try to satisfy his curiosity.

It was the following week that Dagoberto invited him again to dinner. Morelli accepted with satisfaction. The dinner proceeded normally and this time Clóvis was there with a friend and brought polarization to the matters.

Morelli furtively watched Juliana as she ate quietly. After dinner, while Dagoberto was being called on the phone, Morelli approached to Juliana trying to talk with her.

The young woman responded politely, but he noted with astonishment that she was very shy. He tried to talk about the hospital, but she was not interested.

This contact with Juliana increased his curiosity. Did sleepwalkers have something that allowed them to know more than ordinary people?

Without showing what he thought, he decided to study the topic in depth. He didn’t believe in a supernatural force. For him, science represented the key to all the enigmas of the world. The young woman had spoken of things she didn’t even know. In that sense, he stated. If there was a cause for this. I would find out.

The next day, he was with Dagoberto at the hospital when he received an urgent call. Finally, after three weeks, Ofelia had come out of her coma. The two doctors came to see her, interested.

Ofelia opened her eyes and, upon seeing them, murmured excitedly.

Thank God! I made it. Where am I?

Dagoberto took her pulse and said in a calm voice.

It’s all right now. You are in the hospital. You had some discomfort, but it’s over now. Calm down. You mustn’t move.

Oh, doctor! What a horrible dream! I thought I was going to die. How awful!

You shouldn’t worry. You’re better now. Your daughter will be happy!

How is she?

She’s very well.

Dagoberto listened to his heart and acknowledged that, even though Ofelia was excited, it registered no disturbing changes. Ofelia sighed and smiled.

I feel fine now, she said.

You must rest. If you continue like this, you will soon go home.

Ofelia held Dagoberto’s hand tightly as she said, Doctor, I don’t want to sleep, I’m afraid! What shall I do?

I’ll prescribe you a tranquilizer...

No, she said, frightened. I’m not going to sleep.

What are you afraid of? Morelli asked. Ofelia looked at them thoughtfully and then said, Of my nightmare. When I fall asleep, I dream of a horrible man who wants to grab me and take me with him. He says I’ll never wake up again. I’m terrified. I try to hide, but he always appears. I see my body in bed, I want to crawl into it, to wake up, but the man won’t let me. I want to scream, cry, ask for help, but no one listens to me. It’s horrible!

Dagoberto listened with a pale countenance, while Morelli admired himself.

Were you having the nightmare when you were sleeping?

It was horrible. I thought I was lost. I was desperate and as a person of faith, I prayed, I asked for God’s help! That’s when a beautiful girl, a real angel, appeared and said she was going to help me. She then took him out and carried him away. Then I woke up and the nightmare was over.

Dagoberto answered in a firm voice, Okay. If the angel helped you. Then there is nothing to fear. Sleep without fear.

What if that man comes back?

You can pray and call the angel back.

The lady spoke seriously, but Morelli knew that Dagoberto was only trying to calm the patient. When they left the room, Morelli asked, So what do you think?

She is disturbed. It’s natural, after three weeks unconscious. I’ll send her to Bueno. Her fantasies may explain the problem. Surely, he’ll know how to treat her.

Didn’t you notice the coincidence? She said the same thing as Juliana.

Dagoberto frowned in annoyance.

I hope you don’t repeat that nonsense. Juliana said so much gibberish while she was sleeping that I don’t even remember her words anymore.

"Well, I remember it very well. She said that Mrs. Ofélia had a stalker who wouldn’t let her wake up. That was exactly what she said.

A man of science like you can’t be talking about such nonsense! Who would be chasing Dona Ofelia? It’s just a nightmare! I think you’ve been working too hard.

It could be. You have to admit that it’s curious. Do you know that because of your daughter I began to study sleepwalking? Do sleepwalkers have the resources to know more than ordinary people? Dagoberto smiled.

You’re really studying! There are extensive compendiums on the topic. If you come to any conclusions, let me know.

You’re joking, but I’m serious.

A doctor can’t be so easily impressed! You could harm yourself.

Don’t worry about it. I know how to take care of myself.

When Dagoberto got home that afternoon, asked Norma, How is Juliana?

She’s fine.

"Did she wake up at night?

No, she didn’t.

Thank goodness. Bueno is right. There’s no reason to worry.

Norma nodded happily.

I have good news, she said cheerfully.

What is it?

Dr. Vasconcelos’ son has proposed to Vera.

The judge?

That’s the one.

What did she answer?

She accepted, of course! He’s a fine young man, from a very good family. In fact, at this point, our daughter won’t give up.

This boy, what does he do?

He is a law student. I think he intends to follow his father’s career.

The best thing would be for him to come and court her here at home. We need to get to know him better.

It’s just the beginning of the relationship. It would not be a good idea to pressure him. He is a rich young man from a good family. He is what we consider a good match. It may seem like we’re forcing a commitment.

Do you believe that? I don’t want my daughter being courted anywhere.

As for that, you can rest assured. Vera’s always been judicious. She knows how to behave.

I hope she does. I wouldn’t want to interfere. You, who are a mother, be vigilant. Don’t make it easy for her.

Keep calm. Marcelinho is very polite.

We’ll see. It’s a precaution. I know how these things are.

Dagoberto went to rest a bit before dinner and Norma sat down on the sofa, grabbed a magazine, and began to leaf through it. However, her thoughts were distant. She felt satisfied with her daughter’s courtship. Marrying children well was her greatest ambition. She would only be relieved of her duty as a mother when each of them formed a home of her own.

She was already imagining her daughter, married, living in a beautiful mansion, where no doubt, no other woman would know how to reign.

She had a smile on her face when suddenly was brought out of her reverie by the sound of the front door slamming shut. Clóvis rushed into the room. He was pale and uncomfortable.

Is that any way to get into the house? You look pale. Is something wrong?

Yes, he answered, agitated. Cláudio ran over a man.

When did he do it?

Just now. Near here. But it wasn’t his fault. I saw him.

Did he get hurt bad?

I don’t know. It happened so fast. It wasn’t his fault. The man crossed without looking. We were terrified without knowing what to do.

Where did it happen?

Dagoberto, attracted by the noise, stood before them. Seeing him, the boy tried to mitigate the fact.

Right there, at the entrance to the avenue. I don’t think it was serious. Apparently, there was no one around, I don’t think someone saw us.

And that settles the matter, said Dagoberto, irritated. You know that not helping someone is a crime?

I know, Dad. But it wasn’t me, it was Cláudio. When I found out, he has already gone leaving me here.

What a friend you have! murmured Dagoberto. We’ll go and see what really happened.

That’s not necessary, father. By now other people must have helped the man.

Stop being a coward. Let’s go there

Clóvis waited for his father to put on his jacket. He regretted telling him. His father might spoil everything. He was sure no one saw them. However, he dared not contradict him. For him would not admit disobedience.

Dad, he said. It’s needless to say, it was Cláudio. It can get complicated.

I’ll figure it out later. First, I want to see what happened. Let’s go.

Norma’s heart was heavy, but she didn’t dare to challenge her husband. Clóvis wasn’t guilty and still could end up involved.

Dagoberto got out, pulled the car out of the garage, and left. He stopped in the avenue because of the crowds. Dagoberto quickly got out of the car, walked over, made his way over and said, Excuse me, I’m a doctor.

You are late, doctor, said a lady. They have already taken him away.

In fact, in the middle of the group there was just one policeman trying to note down possible witnesses. Dagoberto approached him.

Sir, I’m a doctor, I live nearby. I came as soon as I heard about it.

The policeman listened carefully.

Too late. They just took him away. A passing car offered to transport him, a colleague of ours accompanied them.

What happened? Was he seriously injured?

We don’t know. He lost consciousness.

Where did they go?

Santa Casa. Why do you ask?

I wonder if it was someone from here, from the neighborhood. Are there any witnesses?

Unfortunately, no. You know how hard it is to find someone who’ll agree to testify.

That’s true. If the injured person has already been rescued, you don’t need me. Good night.

Good night, doctor. Thank you.

Dagoberto returned to the car where Clóvis was waiting silently.

What happened? Clóvis asked.

They have already taken him to Santa Casa. Clóvis remained silent.

Aren’t you going to ask me how he is?

Do you know anything?

No. But at least show some interest. I’m amazed at the coldness with which you face this episode.

Dagoberto started the engine and put the car in gear.

For you, he continued after a few seconds, human life is worth nothing. You don’t even want to know about the unfortunate man’s condition.

It was all so fast! Cláudio was frightened.

You’re still defending him! Let’s see if now you guys stop speeding from one side to the other like crazy. You know that if the man dies, they can be charged?

Nobody saw us, Dad. There wasn’t a soul on the street.

You need to be more responsible. They are grown men.

At that moment Clóvis said nothing, but when he got home, he had to listen to Dagoberto’s advice. Deep down he was satisfied with the outcome of the case. The old man spoke and even though he fulfilled his role, the next day he would quickly forget the matter.

Surely, he didn’t want the man to die however it was more