ONE SHOTS MARINA (ENGLISH)

4. Heartbeat

P.O.V. CARINA DELUCA

The soft light of late afternoon came in through the windows of the exam room, creating a quiet atmosphere while I finished my appointment with Elisa Scherer. She was eight months pregnant with little Alexandra, and each visit with her was a reminder of the wonders and challenges that come with motherhood. Elisa smiled at me, a smile full of anticipation and nervousness, as she adjusted her shirt over the bulging belly.

- So, doctor, October 10th, right? - she asked, moving her hand affectionately over the belly - I can't believe there's so little time left.

I smiled back, perfectly understanding that mix of emotions. The waiting, the growing love, the fear that something could go wrong. It was a whirlwind, and I, as a doctor and now also mother, understood each of these concerns.

— Yes, Miss Scherer, October 10 - I confirmed, my soft and reassuring voice - Everything is going very well, and you are doing wonderfully. Alexandra is almost ready to see the world.

She burst out laughing, the light sound filling the room.

- And I'm ready to meet her. Thank you, Dr. DeLuca, for everything.

We said goodbye with a warm hug, and she left, still with a smile on her face. I was a moment alone in the room, enjoying the silence, before organizing my thoughts. Today was a special day. Maya was waiting for me to do something that, as a mother and doctor, I knew would be an unforgettable moment: the first ultrasound of our baby.

It had been three months since we found out that we were pregnant, and today would be the first time we would see our baby together. I felt my heart speed with anticipation. Maya was anxious, which was understandable considering how much she already loved this baby before even seeing it.

I took a last look at the exam room to make sure everything was in order before leaving. I walked through the halls of Grey Sloan, feeling both excited and serene. Knew she was already in the waiting room, probably fiddling with her phone or looking at the clock, trying to contain her anxiety.

Liam, now six months old, was in the hospital nursery. He was growing so fast, every day a new discovery, a new sound, a new smile. And now, we were about to repeat the experience, but this time with a new understanding and an even more loving heart.

When I turned the corridor, I saw my wife immediately. She was sitting in one of the waiting room chairs, legs crossed and staring at her phone. Her eyes lit up at the sight of me, and she quickly put the braces in her pocket, getting up to come to me.

- Hey, my love - she said, with that smile that could always melt any tension I might be feeling.

She wrapped me in a tight embrace, as if trying to convey all her enthusiasm and affection in one gesture. 

- How was the appointment with Elisa? Wow, she's with a big belly, I saw her leave.

— It was great - I replied, feeling the calm that his presence always brought me - We scheduled the birth for October 10. Her little one is healthy and very active.

- Oh, that's wonderful - Maya said, still holding my hand as we started walking towards the exam room where Jo was waiting for us - I'm sure it will be a beautiful birth.

We entered the examination room, where Wilson was already waiting for us with a warm smile. She was next to the ultrasound monitor, preparing everything for the big moment.

- Hey, Jo - I said hello, feeling a mix of nervousness and joy start growing inside me - Ready to show us our little grain?

- More than ready! - she replied, gesturing to the examination bed - Lie down here, Carina. Let's see how this little baby is developing.