The neighbours argued until they reached a decision. Wrapping Lon Lon Chaw in a hammock, they carried her to the hospital. The doctor on duty, U Maung Gyi, had just been posted to the village. He quickly examined the girl before registering her. “Patient’s name?” “Lon Lon Chaw, Doctor,” answered a woman, arms folded across her chest. “Husband’s name?” No one spoke. Dr Maung Gyi asked again, “Who is the husband?” “She has no husband,” replied the same woman. “And her parents?” “Deceased. The old woman Daw Mae Kya adopted her.” “Tsk, tsk. Bring her in to the operating room,” said the doctor, setting down his ballpoint pen on the registry. After a long labour, Lon Lon Chaw gave birth to a baby girl. The doctor himself took on the charges for her medical treatment, and even bought her food and vitamins. In the recovery room, he told Lon Lon Chaw, “Thanks to you, this baby has been given a chance to be born a human. I do admire your courage. Please let me know if you have any problems.” “Thank you, doctor, I’m so grateful. I won’t forget your help.” *** The four young men have dug the hole as deep as they can. As Soe Paing picks up the rolled mat and places it in the grave, Bo Aung stops him. “Wait, Ko Soe Paing. Not just yet.” “What is it, Bo Aung? We’re running out of time, it’s already dark.” “We haven’t seen the baby yet. Everyone knew Lon Lon Chaw was pregnant, but we still don’t know who the father was. If we take a peek, maybe we can guess, heh, heh.” “No, that’s not the way, Bo Aung. Everything’s already over and done with.”
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