Chapter 14: Kaiser’s Nightmares
*Thursday, July 10, 2011*
In a private room of one of Berlin's top hospitals, Johana lay in bed, her breathing steady despite her fragile appearance. Her skin was pale, marked by illness, and her face bore deep dark circles. Beneath the cap she wore, the visible effects of chemotherapy on her hair were evident. Yet, her gaze remained calm as she watched birds chirping outside.
A faint click sounded at the door, breaking the silence. Kaiser, a chubby five-year-old boy, rushed to his mother with a radiant smile, his innocent face full of life.
"Kaiser... come to Mommy," Johana whispered, an affectionate smile lighting up her dry lips. She gently patted the spot beside her on the bed, inviting her son to join her.
Kaiser climbed onto the bed, snuggling close to his mother. "How are you feeling, Mommy?" he asked, his voice full of concern.
"I'm fine, sweetheart," Johana replied softly, though a hint of fatigue dimmed her eyes. "And you, did you have fun today?"
"Yes! I was on the phone with Daddy, and he taught me a new word in Italian!" Kaiser seemed proud of himself.
"What word, my love?" Johana asked with interest, her smile widening.
"Guarigione! It means 'healing.' When I grow up, I'll be a great doctor and cure your illness!" Kaiser declared with enthusiasm and touching conviction.