Chapter 1

 


Chapter 1: The Morning Hug


Opening Scene:
Becky woke up to the soft sounds of her baby brother giggling in the next room. The morning sunlight spilled through the curtains, painting warm stripes across her bedspread. She reached under her pillow and pulled out her diary, running her fingers over its worn blue cover.

Flipping to a fresh page, she picked up her pen and began to write:

“Dear Diary,
I woke up feeling funny today. Like something is going to happen, but I don’t know what. Mommy says I worry too much. Maybe she’s right. But I just want us to stay happy. Together.”

Becky tucked the diary under her pillow again as her mom’s voice floated up the stairs. “Becky! Breakfast is ready!”

Family Breakfast:
At the table, her dad was flipping slices of plantains on the stove while her baby brother, Nico, squished a piece of toast in his tiny fists. “Mami, he’s making a mess again!” Becky said, giggling.

Her mom placed a plate of mangu in front of her and kissed the top of her head. “Eat up, mi amor. You’ll need your energy for school.”

But Becky wasn’t hungry. “Do I have to go, Mommy?” she asked, her voice soft.

Her mom crouched down beside her, brushing a strand of hair from Becky’s face. “What’s wrong, Becky? You love school.”

Becky shrugged, her eyes fixed on her plate. “I just don’t want to leave you today.”

Her mom wrapped her arms around her tightly. “I’m not going anywhere, mi niña. Everything will be okay. I promise.”

Heading to the Bus:
Becky grabbed her backpack, tucking her diary safely into the front pocket. Her dad waved from the kitchen. “Be good today, mi estrella,” he called.

Outside, her mom walked her to the bus stop. Becky clung to her hand the whole way. “I love you, Mommy,” she whispered.

“I love you too, Becky,” her mom said, kneeling down to give her one last hug. “Now go show the world how amazing you are.”

Becky climbed onto the bus, looking back to wave as the doors closed. Her mom stood on the sidewalk, smiling. Becky waved back, pressing her diary close to her chest.

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