A Mother's Worry

Ashley rushed out of the apartment with Theo in her arms, the taxi waiting for them outside. As they sped to the doctor's office, Ashley's mind was racing with thoughts of what could happen. What if the doctor found something serious wrong with Theo? What if she got fired from her job for missing a day? The financial implications swirled in her head like a vortex, making her stomach twist with anxiety. When they arrived at the doctor's office, Ashley quickly paid the taxi driver and rushed inside with Theo. The waiting room was crowded, but Ashley didn't care; she needed to get Theo seen by a doctor as soon as possible. She approached the reception desk and explained the situation to the nurse, who quickly ushered them into an examination room. The doctor, a kind-faced woman with a warm smile, examined Theo and took his temperature. After what felt like an eternity, she gave Ashley the diagnosis: Theo had a viral infection, but it was nothing to worry about. The doctor prescribed some medication and advised Ashley to keep Theo hydrated and rested. Ashley felt a wave of relief wash over her, but it was quickly replaced by worry about her job. What if Mrs. Patel wasn't understanding? What if she got fired for missing a day? The thought of not having a steady income, of not being able to provide for Theo, sent a shiver down her spine. As they left the doctor's office, Ashley pulled out her phone and checked her messages. There was one from Emily, her coworker, asking how Theo was doing. Ashley quickly typed out a response, letting Emily know that Theo was okay and that she would catch up on any missed work as soon as possible. But as she walked back to the apartment with Theo, Ashley couldn't shake off the feeling of uncertainty. She had always known that being a single mother was tough, but moments like these made her realize just how fragile their existence was. One wrong move, one bad day, could send them tumbling into financial chaos. Ashley quickened her pace, her mind racing with thoughts of what she could do to mitigate the damage. She would call Mrs. Patel as soon as they got home, apologize again for missing a day, and promise to make up for the lost time. She would work extra hours, take on extra shifts, anything to ensure that she kept her job. As they walked into the apartment, Ashley's phone rang. It was Mrs. Patel. Ashley took a deep breath and answered, her heart pounding in her chest. "Hello?" she said, trying to sound calm. "Ashley, I just wanted to check in on Theo," Mrs. Patel said, her voice warm and concerned. "How is he doing?" Ashley hesitated, unsure of what to say. But then she took a deep breath and launched into a explanation of Theo's diagnosis and treatment. Mrs. Patel listened attentively, and when Ashley finished, she said, "Take care of Theo, Ashley. Don't worry about work. We'll manage." Ashley felt a wave of relief wash over her. Maybe, just maybe, she wouldn't get fired after all. She hung up the phone and looked down at Theo, who was gazing up at her with big, sleepy eyes. She smiled and scooped him up in her arms, holding him close. She would do whatever it took to keep him safe and happy.