On a crisp autumn morning in the Bronx, the air was filled with a sense of anticipation and excitement. October 20, 1998, was a day that would be forever etched in the memories of many, but especially for the Ferrer family. In a small, bustling hospital room, Calista Jade Burgos Ferrer came into the world with a soft cry, her tiny fists clenching and unclenching as she adjusted to the new world around her.
Down the hall, in the hospital's cheerful playroom, three-year-olds Marcus and Joseph were busy with their toy cars and building blocks. Despite their young age, they shared an unspoken bond, always curious and eager to explore their surroundings. The news of a new baby had reached their ears, and their curiosity was piqued.
"Did you hear? There's a new baby in the hospital today," Marcus said, his eyes wide with excitement.
Joseph nodded, his interest clearly sparked. "Yeah, my mom said she's really tiny. Wanna see?"
With a shared glance, they abandoned their toys and tiptoed out of the playroom, their little feet padding quietly down the hallway. Guided by a mix of curiosity and the sense of adventure that only young children possess, they navigated their way to the maternity ward.
As they approached the nursery, Joseph turned to Marcus, his eyes shining. "You know, she's my cousin."
Marcus's eyes widened. "Really? Your cousin? That's so cool! Let's go see her!"
Peeking through the window of the nursery, they saw rows of tiny babies, all swaddled in soft blankets. It didn't take long for them to spot Calista. She lay in her bassinet, a small, peaceful bundle with dark hair and a delicate face.
"Wow, she's so little," Marcus whispered, his nose pressed against the glass.
Joseph nodded in agreement. "She's cute. I wonder what her name is."
Just then, a nurse noticed the two boys and approached them with a warm smile. "Hi there, are you looking for someone special?"
"We wanted to see the new baby," Marcus explained, his eyes still on Calista.
The nurse chuckled softly. "This little one is Calista Jade Burgos Ferrer. She was born just this morning."
"Calista," Joseph repeated, trying out the name. "It's a pretty name."
The nurse nodded. "Yes, it is. Would you like to meet her parents?"
The boys exchanged an excited look and followed the nurse to Calista's room. Inside, they found a tired but glowing mother holding her newborn daughter, while the father looked on with pride.
"Hello," Marcus said shyly. "We wanted to see the new baby. Is it okay?"
Calista's mother smiled warmly. "Of course, come in. This is Calista."
The boys approached carefully, peering at the tiny bundle in her arms. Calista yawned, her small fingers stretching out as if to greet them.
"She's beautiful," Joseph said, his voice filled with awe. He turned to Marcus with a big smile. "See, I told you she's my cousin."
"Thank you," Calista's father replied. "We hope she grows up to be as curious and kind-hearted as you two."
Marcus and Joseph grinned, feeling a sense of connection to the newborn. They stayed for a few minutes longer, chatting with Calista's parents and marveling at the tiny new life before them.
As they left the room, Marcus looked back and said, "Welcome to the world, Calista. We can't wait to see you grow up."
Joseph nodded in agreement. "Yeah, maybe one day we can all play together."
YOU ARE READING
The Beginning of Everything Book 1
RomanceMarcus and Cali's bond grew after their initial connection at the family gathering. They spent time together, shared personal moments, and found common interests. When Cali fell ill during a walk, Marcus rushed her to the hospital and continued to c...
