"It's not guilt l feel Maria, it's sorrow. Alfred is the best gift life has blessed me with, and l just wish l could bear his pains instead."
Ava knew Maria would think she was making a mess of her feelings. She had assured her she wasn't . Maybe she would feel much better later, but now, Ava wanted her son free from pain—she had caused. This surgery had to go well. She could worry about the bill later. Her hands were still her greatest assets, and she wasn't going to feel ashamed for anything. If she would start from ground zero up, it wasn't a problem at all, so long as she had Alfred, healthy and strong.
"Maria, you need to get some a bath, rest Your eyes look like they would fall off soon."
"Ava, l stay here with Alfred. I have had more rest than you've had. It's safer you go shower, and rest, or get us something for lunch."
