Valerie

Chapter 4 Valeria

I called my little sister, and we ate together in the small dining room. I understand her perfectly; she feels safer once I get home. She lives in fear because once, Mom had an episode while alone with Sofi, and it made her very nervous.

At dinner time, I take the opportunity to learn about her school, friends, and any youth problems that might affect her. This was always a valuable moment between sisters.

“Sofi, my boss advanced me a bonus. I'm going to use it for Mom's treatment.”

Sofia smiled and asked, “Really? Did you talk to him?”

“No, it seems Mr. Sebastian mentioned it. You know I don't like talking to him much; he's very distrustful. Who knows what he would think of me. And how was your day?”

“I have problems with math. I don't understand anything my teacher says. It's been hard to follow his explanations.”

“I see. Have you talked to him, or has he mentioned anything?”

“Yes, but he says I have a weak foundation from previous years and that I need to sit in the front, take more notes, and pay attention. It's just that I really don't like the subject much, sis.”

“Well, there's still a lot of time left in the school year. Try to improve your grades. Isn't there anyone in your classes who can explain it to you?”

“There are some kids, but I'm too shy to talk to them, and I don't have any free time. I have to help Mom.”

“Well, let me think of something. We'll figure it out. Just do your best and don't stay up too late.”

Sofia had to grow up very quickly. It wasn't fair, but it was necessary. Thank God she was very mature, or so it seemed. Both of us had to help Mom, and we agreed she deserved it for her love, dedication, and sweetness.

“Please, Sofi, clear the table and wash the dishes. I'm going to check on Mom and put some clothes in the washer.”

I got up from the table with great effort and a feeling of exhaustion. It was mental fatigue more than physical. I thought about this while gathering the clothes and putting them in the washer, which also functioned as a dryer.

Undoubtedly, it was one of the luxuries we had allowed ourselves, as it saved time and effort, something we always needed.

I lived thinking about this small family, managing the money, fulfilling work responsibilities, dealing with Mom's illness, and so many other things daily. Every day was the same scenario: how to cover expenses, how to help the family more.

Free time was also limited, just like Sofia's. She came straight from school to help with Mom and assist me with the desserts. That meant no free time for either of us. I had to work for a demanding but fair boss with very little room for mistakes. Any bad decision could risk the job.

I wasn't ungrateful. I was content. It was one of the best jobs I could get with my qualifications. It was a miracle I could get it, and the salary was magnificent.

During all this time, I had made an effort to learn, to be the best secretary, so the boss wouldn't regret it, to speak just enough, to anticipate his wishes, and so many other details.

I had no idea why he selected me, and everyone wondered the same. At first, fear ran through my body. One poorly done task, and this man would fire me, jeopardizing our household's livelihood.

He was known for having a bad temper, and he was distrustful. But I was grateful; he had helped me, and for that, he had my utmost loyalty, even with the threats from his family when I blocked their way. My boss said I was paid very well for all that.

On the other hand, despite his unpleasant demeanor, my boss didn't demand more than the fulfillment of my job duties. So, not everything was bad, and now I had an additional bonus to continue with Rosalía's treatment. It was another thing to thank my boss for.

After finishing with the laundry, I passed through the kitchen and saw that Sofi had finished cleaning everything.

I still had to decorate the birthday cake for my neighbor's kid. It was an order, and although Sofia had baked the cake, I checked and decorated it. It's my way of relaxing, and the earnings are currently for Sofia's studies and to help with the household.

I set everything up to decorate the cake and went to my dear mother's room to check that everything was alright. If she was awake, we'd chat for a while. One of the important things in my life is my friendship with my mom.

She is a very wise, understanding, and quite positive woman. If someone asked me who my favorite person in the world is, I would undoubtedly say my dear mother.

She was still a beautiful woman, always was, with her long hair, now almost nonexistent. Mom said it didn't matter; what mattered to her was the happiness of my little sister and me.

Her lack of hair didn't matter. She said she wasn't vain and knew it was necessary if she wanted to keep accompanying her two girls.

When I reached the room, I sat in a chair near the bed. She was awake; she slept very little.

“How are you feeling, Mom?”

“I feel very well, dear. Really. Tell me what you did today. Any news?”

“Not much, Mom. I overheard something that surprised me. My boss likes a girl.”

“And what's new about that, dear? He's always been associated with pretty girls.”

"Well, Mom, she seems young and really likes him."

"It's about time. That man needs more joy in his life, just like you do."

"I'm fine, Mom."

"No, sweetheart, I know. You've had too much responsibility from a very young age, and now I've come to add one more."

"Not at all, Mom. Focus on getting better right now. Don't worry about anything else. I'm fine, and today I feel blessed. My boss transferred a bonus to help with your treatment and medical care."

"Really, darling?" She smiled.

"Yes, Mom. He found out about your illness by chance and wants to help."

"Blessed be God, and thanks to our benefactor. That's wonderful, dear. This will give you some peace of mind for a while. God has helped us so much. He put that man in your path, and the only explanation I have for you getting such an important job is divine intervention, my dear. I always keep him in my prayers. He was an instrument of salvation for us." She paused and continued, "I also pray to God for you, my child. I know you're strong and that it's been hard for you to keep up with that job because you lacked preparation, but you've managed, and I'm proud of you and your achievements. I really don't know what I did to deserve daughters like you." She smiled at me.

"We take after you, Mom. The three of us have moved forward, and I know I owe a lot to my boss. Even though he doesn't realize it, I am very grateful and completely loyal to him. Now that the financial part is sorted, focus on healing. I'll be back in a bit. I'm going to finish decorating the neighbor's cake, change, and come to bed with you."

"You keep making those desserts. You need to rest. With that and looking after me all night, you can't do it."

"Of course I can. I sleep better with you than in the other room. I'd be getting up all the time. Don't worry."

I reached the kitchen, took out the cake, and finished decorating it. I put it away safely to deliver it tomorrow.

Sofía is also an expert and enjoys baking. It's our sweet moment. I smiled. Right now, she's in the living room, doing her homework with the TV on. I smiled and said to her:

"How can you do your homework with that noise?" She replied:

"I just want to hear the noise, and I'm almost done, sister. How's Mom?"

"She's calm, Sofi. Don't worry. She ate more today than yesterday, and I'll lie down with her in a bit. When you finish, rest."

Sofía looked at me and said softly, "Do you think... she's going to die?"

"No, Sofía, don't say that. We don't have to worry about money anymore. With what my boss transferred, we'll pay the neighbor for her care and continue the treatment."

"Do you think it'll be enough?"

"Yes, and I'll work even harder so he has no complaints about me."

"For that guy, any amount is irrelevant. He's very rich," my little sister said.

"Well, yes. I owe him a lot. He gave me a job and had the patience to wait for me to learn how to do it. Although that's because he doesn't trust any of the veteran or better-prepared secretaries. Now that I think about it, he's a good teacher. He was patient, corrected my mistakes, and gave me second chances. With him, I had to be more organized and pay attention to details."

"Anyway, little sister, I'm going to lie down with Mom. That way, I'll keep an eye on her. When you finish, go to bed. Don't stay up late. We have to study tomorrow."

"Okay, don't worry. Try to sleep."

I went to my room, changed my clothes, freshened up, grabbed my blanket and pillow, and headed to Mom's room. I felt calmer when I was with her and could hear her breathing. Since her illness, I've slept with her to assist her if needed and, of course, because it makes me feel more at ease.

There are nights when, to feel calm, I watch her breathe. The treatment has taken a toll on her. She's a strong woman, but the treatment is stronger. I know we'll get through this. She's responded positively to the chemotherapy sessions. Her tests show a decrease in the tumor, so I must stay positive and believe everything will turn out well. With God's blessing, we'll overcome this situation. Soon, she will have the surgery and be back to 100% capacity. We'll get through this.

I lay down next to her, and like every night, I checked her breathing and put my head on the pillow. I thanked God for another day coming to an end. We're strong. I exclaimed with my arms raised, "We will make it!"

"I love you, Mom. Everything will be fine! We'll get through this!"

...

The next day, the three of us were in better spirits. Mom was stronger and had breakfast in the dining room.

I made her a ham and cheese sandwich and gave it to her. I had already prepared her juice. I felt lighter. The treatment symptoms had lessened a bit. She looked better and had slept quite well.

When the neighbor arrived to keep her company, we chatted, and I said goodbye. Then Sofía and I left, feeling a bit happier than yesterday.

If there's one thing I've learned from Mom and Dad, it's to face the day with our best smile. I have a lot to thank God for. He hasn't abandoned us in this adversity, and we've stayed afloat. I feel good. I see my little sister happier. She's my little girl, very mature for her age, and an extraordinarily good daughter and sister.

When we reached the bus stop, I said goodbye to her. We took different routes. With a hug, I had to tell her:

"I love you very much, little sister. I really don't know what I would do without you right now."