CHAPTER 1
Tampa, Florida. Fifth Avenue Housing Project
“Please help,” she said forcing air through her parched trembling lips. “Oh please help me God.” The once strong voice, now only a whimper, muffled by a damp pillow pressed against her ghostly white face.
Maria Suarez lie sprawled on her back, motionless on a filthy mattress that smelled like day old vomit. A small plastic lamp, molded into the shape of a pineapple, the only possession she kept from a horrifyingly abusive childhood, now reflected a hazy glow in her darkened room. The odor of stale cigarettes lingered and a locker room stench of sweaty clothes permeated the stagnant thick air. A rattling hum originating from a small metal fan was her only comfort and provided a slight breeze across her bare skin. Struggling to relieve the pain and agony throughout the night, Maria had pulled off the blankets and sheets, leaving her outstretched and naked on the mattress.
Moving her trembling fingers away from her clammy forehead, she ran her fingertips through sweat drenched hair. Snagging on a knot, she slowly pulled the long strand toward her face and struggled to focus. How had she gone down so fast? So far? A tear trickled down the side of her face as she stared at a knot of her hair lacing its way through a clump of pink chewing gum. Why is this happening to me? I'm not a bad person. This isn't fair. Tears streamed down her face as she tightly squeezed her eyes together hoping to block out her tormenting reality.
Rolling onto her side, a wave of nausea overwhelmed her and threw her into a bout of retching. Struggling to sit up she fell backwards clutching her stomach. Staring at the water-stained and paint chipped ceiling, tears continued streaming down the side of her face. When had she last eaten? Was it this morning or was it yesterday, or was it even the day before. I'm not sure, I just can't remember. Shaking uncontrollably her fingers gently brushed her swollen pregnant belly hoping not to stir the agonizing pain. Her long thin fingers traced along the sweat soaked contours of her body, until she touched her protruding navel. I can feel my heart beat. Should I feel my heart beating through my belly? Something must be wrong. Biting her lower lip, she prepared for the next agonizing cramp. Reaching out with both hands she rubbed her belly in a circular motion. My belly is on fire. Why is my belly on fire? I have to do something quick or the heat will kill my baby. Her eyes darted throughout the room searching for something to cool her down. But there was nothing. No water and no one to help her. "Oh dear God please help me." She whispered.
Maria reached along her side and ran her fingertips across the drenched sheets. Finding her rosary, she lifted it up to her face and kissed the cross. Trembling fingers coursed along the rosary searching for a bead. "Hail Mary," she whispered, her breaths coming in rapid succession. "Full of grace, the Lord is with thee…" She started to cry. Why can't I remember the words? I've known them since I was a little girl and I can't remember them. What is wrong with me?
No comments:
Post a Comment