Maternal Magic: contos, #1

By jessica diogo

In the hushed halls of a bustling hospital, amidst the whirlwind of life and the ebb and flow of humanity, there exists a tale that stirs the soul and tugs at the heartstrings—a tale of compassion, resilience, and the enduring power of maternal love.

Meet Alicia Cooper, a beacon of light in the predawn darkness, her footsteps echoing the rhythm of dedication as she hurries to her beloved job. For over two decades, she has been the steadfast guardian of new beginnings, a seasoned obstetrician gynecologist whose very presence brings comfort and reassurance to those she serves.

But on this particular morning, the world seems shrouded in shades of gray, mirroring Alicia's yearning for the warmth of spring and the gentle caress of sunlight. Yet, despite the gloom that surrounds her, Alicia herself is a radiant force, her cheerful demeanor and unwavering optimism brightening even the dreariest of days.

As Alicia navigates the familiar corridors of the hospital, her mind brims with anticipation and curiosity—what stories will unfold today? What lives will she touch, and what miracles will she witness?

Little does she know that fate has woven a tapestry of extraordinary events, each thread intertwining to form a narrative of profound impact and unforeseen connection.

From the joyful arrival of a robust newborn to the heartbreaking loss of a young mother, Alicia's journey is a testament to the highs and lows of the human experience. Through it all, she remains a pillar of strength and compassion, her unwavering dedication to her patients transcending the boundaries of duty.

But amidst the chaos and sorrow, a glimmer of hope emerges—a chance encounter with a tiny, fragile soul who captures Alicia's heart in an instant. As she stands by the bedside of an orphaned newborn, Alicia's resolve is tested, her thoughts swirling with the possibility of a new beginning, of offering love and shelter to a child in need.

With each passing moment, Alicia grapples with the weight of responsibility, her mind awash with questions and uncertainties. Can she, a single woman of a certain age, provide the love and care this child deserves? Will she be deemed worthy by the stringent standards of the adoption process?

Yet, despite her doubts, Alicia's heart whispers a resounding yes—a yes born from compassion, empathy, and a fierce determination to make a difference in the life of one precious soul.

As the dawn breaks and the hospital stirs to life once more, Alicia's journey takes on a new significance—a journey of love, sacrifice, and the profound bond between a mother and her child. And though the road ahead may be fraught with challenges, Alicia marches forward with unwavering courage, guided by the belief that every life, no matter how small, deserves to be cherished and nurtured.

In the hushed halls of a bustling hospital, amidst the whirlwind of life and the ebb and flow of humanity, Alicia Cooper stands as a beacon of hope—a testament to the transformative power of love and the enduring legacy of maternal grace.

• Language: English
• Publisher: jessica diogo
• Release date: Apr 15, 2024
• ISBN: 9798224496198

jessica diogo

Ricardo Almeida is a writer and journalist, graduated in the Brazilian city of João Pessoa in 2007. He specializes in investigative journalism. In addition to his journalistic work, he is a speaker and writer. It shares its knowledge at conferences, workshops and publications, with the aim of disseminating information about society. Your commitment is to help others achieve a balanced and meaningful life.

Book preview

Table of Contents

MATERNAL MAGIC

MATERNAL MAGIC

On a frosty morning, Alicia hurried to her beloved job.

It was still dark, only 6 o'clock in the morning.

At this time, many were still snuggled in their beds, but for Alicia, such early rises

had long been customary.

For over 20 years, her work shift had started at half past 7 in the morning.

It's such a grey morning, she noted as she walked the streets.

Grey asphalt and greyish people.

And there are so many grey high-rise buildings around.

I can't wait for spring to come and the sun to appear, it feels rather gloomy.

Alicia herself was often called the opposite, a bright person, and in character, she was

a pleasant, cheerful woman who transmitted her calmness and optimism to others.

Externally, she was a lovely blonde, round-faced with big blue eyes.

Her work was connected with life in its truest form at the beginning of people's earthly

journey.

She was an obstetrician gynecologist.

For decades, Alicia had worked in the same maternity department of the hospital and didn't

want to change anything.

Her salary was satisfactory and her colleagues had become almost like family over the years.

Every step and corridor in the building were as familiar to her as her own home.

But, of course, the most beloved moments in her work were the births of tiny human beings

and the happy eyes of women she helped become mothers.

What awaits me today?

Alicia pondered on her way.

Who will come into this world?

A boy.

A girl?

I still need to check on Mrs. Rodriguez.

Most likely, she will need a Caesarian section.

Alicia Cooper, we have a woman in her 40s already in labor.

She was brought in by ambulance, shouted the nurse as Alicia was on her way to the operating

room.

She quickly changed into her scrubs and followed the nurse, putting on her white coat as she

went.

Well, what do we have here?

One more person entering this world, she said in an encouraging tone to the 40-year-old

woman lying on the table.

It's very painful, the woman groaned.

What's your name?

Monica.

Monica, everyone gives birth, and so will you.

Alicia said calmly.

And we'll help you with that.

Do you know how to push correctly?

Yes, this will be my second child.

We're a bit late in having him.

Better late than never, the doctor pronounced.

Well, the process is underway.

Everything is fine, she examined the patient.

The progress is good.

We'll manage quickly, I think.

40 minutes later, she returned to the operating room, smiling contentedly.

A good little boy was born, robust, she thought.

And the mother did well.

No complications, thank God.

Matilda Hall, she addressed the nurse.

Would the patient files ready for rounds, please?

I'll go a bit later today.

Who knew that right at the beginning of the shift, we'd be delighted with a new boy on

the planet?

Yes, the morning started well.

Successful delivery, the nurse smiled.

A good omen.

Well, let's see what the evening brings, the woman stood up and began sorting through

the files.

Alicia and Matilda had been working together for 10 years, were friends outside of work,

and always maintained informal relations.

But in the hospital, they addressed each other formally, as was customary in medical practice.

We saw a good play together on Friday, Matilda Hall, didn't we?

Alicia asked.

Yes, it was good.

Both drama and comedy in one bottle.

An interesting performance.

There's something to think about.

Thanks for inviting me.

I rarely go out anywhere.

My Bart doesn't like theaters.

Thank you for coming with me, Alicia smiled.

Now it feels strange for me to be at home alone without a big family.

By the way, I'll call the kids.

It's an hour later in Mexico.

So it's about half past nine now.

I suppose Woody is already awake.

Alicia's son had moved to Mexico a few months ago with a tech company where he had recently

landed a job at the age of 22, earning more than his mother, a skilled medic with 20 years

of experience.

Hi, she heard her son's sleepy voice.

Are you still sleeping?

No.

I got up half an hour ago.

I'll have breakfast and start working.

It's good to work from home.

No need to look official.

At least bathe occasionally, Alicia smiled.

We can't send soap to you all the way there.

Did dad call you?

No, he hasn't.

Probably busy with the new kids.

What's with the sarcasm?

Kids are kids.

Just because they had twins doesn't mean he forgot about you.

Oh, mom.

I don't know why people have kids if they're not going to take care of them.

Are you planning to have some yourself?

By the way, how's Greta?

Is she planning to move in with you?

No, she's not coming.

Greta and I broke up.

She got into medical school.

She doesn't want to quit her studies.

And I'm not ready for kids anyway.

That's a shame to hear.

I liked Greta.

And now, as a lonely grandmother, I wouldn't mind having some grandchildren.

Mom.

Let's talk about it later.

I have to go now.

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