CHAPTER 1
August 16, 1958
In the ward of the mother of Aigul are the father and two of their sons. In the crib lies a newborn baby. All are happy and lovingly looking at the newborn.
Cozy kitchen in the house of the family Siconne. Sunday morning, the sun shines outside the window. On the table are fresh buns and cups of coffee. Father Silvio, strict and serious, is preparing for the service, and mother Aigul, with a warm smile, is playing a quiet melody on the piano.
Aiguli's father Luz Ciccono:
Silvio Anthony Ciccono (born June 2, 1931) – design engineer, in retirement he has become a professional winemaker.
AIGULI'S FATHER
(fastening a tie)
Aiguli, have you forgotten that today we have a service? We can't be late.
Aigul's mother Luiz Cicconet: Aigul Luiz Cicconet (1933-1963), maiden name Forten (read as Fortan), in the first marriage from 1955 to 1963 – an X-ray technician
AIGUL'S MOTHER
(continuing to play)
I remember, Silvio. But this melody… It's like it's calling me. I can't just stop.
AIGULI'S FATHER
(seriously)
I understand, but our duties to God are more important than music. You know how important it is for our family.
AIGULI'S MOTHER
(looking up from the piano)
I don't argue with you, dear. But isn't music a form of service? It can inspire and bring light, just like faith.
AIGULI'S FATHER
(sighing)
Yes, music is important, but it shouldn't come first. Every time I see you get carried away, I worry that you're forgetting about our faith.
AIGULI'S MOTHER
(looks into Silvio's eyes)
I'm not forgetting about faith, Silvio. I just want our children to know that music is a gift. You've said yourself that art can be a way of service.
FATHER AIGULI
(softer)
I understand, but I'm afraid it might distract them from their spiritual path. Our tradition is the foundation that supports our family.
AIGULI'S MOTHER
(with tenderness)
I agree, but let's not discourage them from music. I want them to feel that they can express their feelings and emotions. Music is a part of life, not just entertainment.
AIGULI'S FATHER
(considering)
Maybe you're right. We can find time for music, but we must first fulfill our duties at the church.
AIGULI'S MOTHER
(smiling)
I agree! I promise that music won't interfere with our commitments. Let's make sure our children see us loving and believing, and that they can be free to pursue their passions.
FATHER AIGUILI
(nods)
Okay. But remember that order and tradition are also important.
MOTHER AIGUILI
(smiles)
I know, dear. Let's just do this together, as a family.
They both smile at each other, and Aigul returns to the piano, playing a melody filled with hope and love.
The doctor's office. A bright but austere room. Aigul's mother is sitting in a patient's chair. She looks tired but tries to remain calm. The doctor, a middle-aged man with a kind but concerned expression, is looking at her with a serious look on his face.
THE DOCTOR
(checking the test results)
Mrs. Ciccone, I want to discuss with you the results of the tests performed as planned. We have serious reasons for concern.
AIGULI'S MOTHER
(worried)
What's going on? I'm seven months pregnant, and I need to know what's wrong with my baby.
doctor
(softly)
We found signs of breast cancer. This requires immediate attention, but I understand that you have other priorities right now.
AIGOULI'S MOTHER
(clasping her hands in her lap)
I can't think about myself. I have to take care of the baby. I can't let him get hurt.
DOCTOR
(persistently)
Mrs. Ciccone, your health is also very important. If you don't start treatment, it could affect not only you but also the baby.
AIGOULI'S MOTHER
(looking away, her voice becomes firm)
I can't do this. I have my principles. I can't afford an abortion. It's murder. I can't do this, under any circumstances.
