That week, the previous housekeeper quit, overwhelmed by the atmosphere. An agency sent a replacement: Marina Silva, twenty-eight, strong references, available immediately. Lucas approved the hire without much thought.
Marina woke before dawn that Monday, careful not to wake her seventy-three-year-old mother, Helena, whose health was failing. Medical bills were relentless. That was why Marina accepted the job without hesitation. The salary was life-changing.
She took two buses from Santa Aurora, watching the city come alive. When she arrived at the estate, its size stunned her. The head housekeeper, Dona Célia, quietly explained the rules—and the situation with the child. Marina felt a familiar ache. She understood grief.
While cleaning upstairs, Marina heard soft crying. Though the room was restricted, she followed the sound. The door was ajar.
Inside, a small girl sat in her crib, eyes swollen from tears, staring blankly ahead. Toys lay untouched. Then Isabela looked at Marina—not with curiosity, but recognition.
Marina’s breath caught. She saw her own daughter, Bianca, who would have been the same age. Bianca had died suddenly at nine months old.
Days passed. One afternoon, voices rose in the nursery. Dr. Sofia insisted on hospitalization. Lucas begged for more time. Something slammed against the wall. Lucas stormed out, shattered.
Marina should have walked away. Instead, she stepped in.
Isabela screamed uncontrollably. Nurses rushed forward, failing to soothe her. Without thinking, Marina lifted the child and began humming an old lullaby.
Instantly, Isabela relaxed. She fell asleep against Marina’s shoulder.
Everyone froze.
Lucas returned just in time to see his daughter peaceful in a stranger’s arms.
The next morning, Lucas asked Dr. Sofia to allow Marina supervised time with Isabela. The doctor hesitated but agreed.
Marina feared she’d be fired. Instead, Lucas asked her to stay close, to sing, to comfort. It hurt—but she agreed.
Isabela didn’t eat yet, but she stopped crying constantly. She became calm, observant. She watched Marina everywhere.
One morning, Marina warmed toast for herself. Isabela watched closely—then reached out.
Marina offered a tiny piece.
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