Pressure Wasn’t Something Julia Nor Rhys Were Unfamiliar With But That Was Part Of The Reason Why They

Julia nodded with an understanding look in her eyes, not surprised to hear the unplanned was a cause for stress levels to rise, after all that was common with many people. “Understandable, well if you ever feel it getting to a level you cannot cope with then please do let me know and we can sort you out with someone to talk to. New babies as well as pregnancy both come with a lot of movable parts, unexpected developments, it’s a lot.” The mention of getting back to her normal life almost made Julia wince but luckily her experience in the industry had taught her how to keep her expression neutral when she needed to. If this woman thought her life was going to go back to being the same as it was prior to falling pregnant she had a big shock coming, but surely she knew that, right? She didn’t look stupid, quite the opposite. 

“I see…and when were you planning on taking this private plane over to Sweden?” Oh how the other half lived, but she didn’t need to think about that right now, it wasn’t important. Any kind of air travel was likely unadvisable as she’d already made pretty clear. “Which hospital have you decided to register with over there? And your doctors name of course - if it does go ahead we’ll want to make sure all your notes are passed across in plenty of time.” A calm smile as she waited patiently for the answer to be given to her so she could note it down. Still thinking this whole thing was an incredably bad idea. 

“I’m afraid I’m not kidding, this isn’t a joking matter. After all we’re all here to ensure the safe delivery of your babies - there is no ulterior motive.” Listening to the hypothetical situation she tried not to raise her eyebrows, there was so much resistance from the woman which surprised her since normally people with nervous dispositions were more inclined to do what the doctors instructed to ensure everything went smoothly. “Yes, I’m afraid you would need to do bed rest. And once they are both born, to ensure their immune systems are fully developed and neither have any issues at birth, you can fly after a month. Although normally we recommend not before three months. However I understand you would likely be keen to travel to Sweden.” @bjorkncaddel

𝐍𝐄𝐕𝐀 𝐋𝐎𝐎𝐊𝐄𝐃 𝐀𝐓 the doctor, swirling her wedding ring as a sign of nervousness, rested her hands now in her lap, as she remained in posture looking at the brunette before her. She shook her head. ❛ I don't think I need help. I got over it. I was just angry at first with a lot of small accumulations of things that turned out to be a big snowball. I am better…❜ She refers to mental state. Neva is more adjusted to her new life, and 'state'. After all a child, in her case children is a lot of changes in life without them. Trips are known to be a stressful thing to some people but not in her case. Neva needed it, and after her trips, she was a completely different person, lighter and less stressed. ❛ Unplanned things give me high stress even before this pregnancy. But I had to learn to manage my nerves. I'm accustomed to my new state and embracing it, and counting the days until these twins are out of me, so I can back to my normal life.❜ Normal life? Kind of a joke. She put in mind her life would be a little bit easier after having them.

❛ Of course. I mean, it wasn't the plan, but now it is. I wanted to have them in Sweden where I was born, and my husband suggested we go there to wait for them. My trip is all planned. We are going on a private plane to there. We have hospital, place, you name it. It's all checked, checked, aannnd checked. ❜ Not exactly all planned as she just stated, it was out of the blue this new trip, and she had everything settled, she looked for the hospital, a place to stay, her grandparents' house and lastly she needed to find a doctor over there, but hey! Baby steps. Neva didn't say anything to Julia, of course. But she was planning on bringing a doctor on board if anything got wrong.

❛ Are you kidding? I don't need a bed rest… ❜ Maybe, the health doesn't say the same thing. ⎯ ❛ Hypothetically speaking… If the exams get conclusive, will I need to do a lot of bed rest? And should I travel after they are born? How long can I hop in the first plane after they're born? Just remember, this is all a hypothetical situation. ❜ Because she is mentally preparing herself.

Julia always found these kinds of the cases hard - obviously they all were, she was a doctor, but she’d gotten incredibly good at compartmentalising. If she had to go on a talent show that would probably be what she went for because really it was like an elite sport for the woman at this point. She’d spent the last three hours on the same case which was always draining but one the plus side things were looking a lot more positive than they had been when the one year old was rushed into the NICU. Slipping their chart back into the pocket at the end of the crib she let out a soft sigh, wishing she could just melt onto the floor in the foetal position for a little while to disassociate but she had to wait. She had to finish up her shift. Maybe then she could go home and crawl under the duvet for a little while. She wouldn’t cry. Julia rarely did when it came to patients she’d cared for during the day, it was few and far between, but she’d allow the emotion to wash over her in a way she wouldn’t while she was donning her scrubs and stethoscope. 

She was surprised to see the man still sat in the waiting room but it warmed even her very tired heart. It wasn’t a requirement of the job she was almost certain yet here he was waiting no doubt to hear about the little girl, it was enough to have a little smile grace her features. “Mr Caddel - I didn’t expect to still see you here. You must be exhausted.” Voice empathetic since it was four in the morning at this point. “I'm Doctor Rebeiro. You did an excellent job timing wise, it saved her a lot of potential complications. Obviously what I can tell you about the patient is limited since you’re not immediate family but I can reassure you that despite the upper airway burn the patient is responding well to intubation. We thought it best to air on the side of caution considering they’re so young.” Julia considered him with a compassionate expression. “Have you eaten anything, had something to drink? I’m due my break if you’d like to join me in the cafeteria. I can promise you the coffee isn’t as bad as it’s rumoured to be.” 

—jacket was discarded on the chair beside him, along with his helmet; head leaned back against the wall behind him. his partner has gone to grab some coffee, but he knows that he needs a moment, too. every time he closes his eyes, the scene is there; the car engulfed in flames, the screams, the pleading. haunting. a car accident is always bad; it’s even worse when families are involved. as a parent-to-be, he cannot quite grasp the agony and worry, and on top of having to deal with one's own well-being. they had, once again, gone above and beyond; of course, there were orders he had to conveniently overlook, but he was there to help out unless he absolutely couldn’t —and Caddel had trouble knowing when to stop trying. the phone rang beside him and he glanced at it before ignoring it; there would be time to deal with whatever consequences later. ‘I gotta take the utility truck back,’ his partner said as he came back and he simply nodded; and watched his phone ring once more for a second.

the door opened and he was immediately up. he wanted to hear that they had at least made it in time, judging by the amount of time that had passed since they first rushed inside, news had to be somewhat positive, right? he couldn’t even find it in him to ask anything upon seeing the young doctor walk out; simply stood there expectantly, waiting. (@drjuliarebeiro)

Julia could tell the woman was on edge, which wasn’t unusual because they so often were when it came to their babies, but that meant she had to put in extra effort to keep these anxieties at bay. Sitting down on the stool by the desk she used her feet to walk it over towards Neva, nodding understandingly while she spoke. “Being scared is totally natural, as is being tired, so I just want to reassure you about that first off. If I had a cent for every soon to be mother that came in saying that I’d be a very rich woman.” Joking lightly, not expecting the question about the wine but not letting that show on her face. “Potentially, it’s entirely possible that a glass of wine wouldn’t do any harm. Explain to me more in what ways you haven’t been feeling very well, I just want to make sure it’s not something that would be exacerbated with the introduction of alcohol.” She could just look at the chart but she wanted to make sure she didn’t miss anything, or if she did, that she consulted the woman’s OBGYN. @bjorkn

𝐍𝐄𝐕𝐀 𝐏𝐀𝐑𝐓𝐈𝐀𝐋𝐋𝐘 regretted going on this appointment alone. She was so used to having Ryan by her side in every consultation, but this wasn't one of their routine check-ups. Karma, for not telling him she was seeing a doctor. Fucking hell. On the other hand, she knew he would be so worried… She greeted the doctor by giving a friendly and delicate handshake before taking a seat across from her and putting her purse on her lap. ❛ Yes, that's correct. ❜ The blonde sighs deeply. ❛ I feel very tired and scared. I mean, I'm not sure if I want my babies to be born, because I'm scared of the pain. But I'm not feeling very well lately. And I want to ask, hypothetically, can I have a sip of wine? This whole thing of not drinking… It's driving me nuts. It is just a sip to kill my craving. ❜

“Oh well that makes sense, especially in New York I guess. I’m not sure how many cabs would let you in with a cat on the loose so at least with her in a pram thing you can just walk there or get the underground.” If it wasn’t raining and Julia was in that position she would one hundred percent walk so as to avoid the hell of New York’s subway. Useful, sure. Pleasant? Never. “She’d be meowing at everyone you walk past. I was on instagram the other day doomscrolling because I couldn’t sleep and this account came up about this guy who rides around with his cat in the basket of his bicycle. This fluffy white thing that just sits there and looks around - it was actually kind of adorable in a wildly impractical way.” 

Following the other towards the returns she listened as she spoke about not being tempted to pick up any medical books, understanding the concept of having different interests but the idea of walking into that section of a library without taking something home with you entirely alien to her. “I’m sure you would understand more than you give yourself credit for. I mean of course the terms are complex if you don’t know what they mean I guess - that is quite specific. Plus when they delve into more detailed specifications…” She trailed off, putting the bag of books down onto the floor once they arrived at the returns desk. @ofzahras

It was a relief how Julia seemed to understand exactly what she was going through and didn't ask any awkward follow up questions. Their careers were evidently very different but there were similarities as well. The constant need to learn more and keep researching even when that was the last thing you wanted to do. Zahra truly appreciated Julia's company in that moment, glad she had ran into her.

"Oh yeah. I thought it would be useful if I had to take her to the vet or something. She's not the smallest of cats so carrying her isn't exactly fun," she explained. Her face seemed to lit up as she talked about Circe and the corners of the mouth twitched towards a smile. "But I've been too embarrassed to use it. She's real loud, too, so I'm sure no one would think I had an actual baby in there." That being said, Zahra would undoubtedly change her mind the moment she saw someone else prancing around with their cat in a stroller.

She nodded eagerly, clearly delighted by the prospect of accomplishing something small yet meaningful. "Absolutely. Sounds good," she agreed, already heading towards the returns. "It's ideal, really. I doubt I will be too tempted to pick up any medical books. Wouldn't understand most of it. The Latin and Greek I studied wouldn't get me very far with those terms."

Julia was just catching up on some paperwork at the nurses station - for once things had quietened down a bit (famous last words) so she could take a breather. Her coffee sat next to her forgotten as it so often was because despite being incredibly smart when it came to her own self care she had the memory of a goldfish. Tucking some hair behind her left ear she initialed a box when she felt a tap on her shoulder, looking up with the expectation of seeing an intern or nurse who needed something, but instead she was faced with a woman she’d never seen before. 

About to ask if she was looking for a patient it soon became clear that wasn’t there reason for being here, listening to the request with a small smile. “Oh, how sweet. No, of course I’d be happy to help. I actually think it would lift quite a few kids spirits to have someone come in and help distract them for a bit. Not that I’m diminishing your tutoring to just a distraction, but you know what I mean. Often the older ones end up actually missing being at school.” She looked back down at the pamphlets again. “Tell me more, do you do all ages?” @callmecharliejones

starter: closed for @drjuliasato

where: pediatric ward.

The hospital wasn't Charlie's favorite place. Well, she supposed it wasn't anyone's favorite place but Danny had sad it would be a good idea to put up pamphlets in the pediatric ward of the hospital he worked at and Danny was full of brilliant ideas, so with shaky hands and a deep breath, she headed inside and as she saw a woman in a white coat, she came over to tap her shoulder.

"Hi, I'm so sorry to bother you. I promise I won't take long." She started. "My friend Daniel works here, he said I could put some pamphlets up. I'm a teacher. I'm looking for some kids to tutor." She handed her one of the handmade and photocopied pamphlets she made herself, with silly drawings, flowers, stars, hearts, a few bunnies here and there and her contact number. "Could you help me? If you are not too busy of course. I'm sure you have a million kiddos to see. I don't want to be an imposition. I can wait for your break as well, or come some other time."

Julia didn’t know Zahra well - they were both in the library together on multiple occasions seemingly browsing or reading the same section, meaning she recognised her face as they came across each other at the door of the public library. As for judging her for this many books? That would be the pot calling the kettle black so instead she just gave her a small smile. “Wouldn’t dream of it. Here, you take one handle and I’ll take the other.” Luckily she didn’t have any books with her right now due to being on the way to pick one up, so her hands were free to attempt helping. Not that she was particulaly strong. 

“You need to invest in one of those wagons they put kids in to pull them along.” She joked lightly. @ofzahras

where: outside of the new york public library open: to anyone!

A drawn-out sigh escaped Zahra's lips as she stared at the massive, blue Ikea storage bag filled with books to the point where it would be a miracle if the bag remained intact for the last few steps. It had become evident she would not be finishing - or even opening - most of them in time, and paying late fees for the lot didn't exactly appeal to her. So, there she stood, trying to steady her breathing before entering the building. Evidently she needed to invest in a gym membership if she were to start lugging dozens of unread books on a weekly basis.

Feeling someone's presence next to her, she glanced at them almost sheepishly. "Don't ask," she muttered before flashing a nervous smile, "please."

Julia smiled softly, understanding the issue being described because she’d been there herself - more times than she’d care to admit because you’d think she’d have learnt her session after the first. “We’ve all been there.” As they headed into the vast library Julia was relieved to feel the familiar wash of calm the old building brought with it. A place that housed so much knowledge with no expectations on it apart from that you feasted to your hearts content, she could slip away in here for hours on end. Reading while the outside pressures melted away until it was time to walk back out the doors again. “You have a cat stroller for her? Oh my goodness, I’ve only ever actually seen those used on television. Is it common for people to take their cats out for walks? I thought they were more inside pets. Especially in the city.” Not that she’d ever had one, though they were very cute and occasionally the thought had crossed her mind to keep her company in the times she wasn’t at the hospital, before she remembered that those hours were extensive and it wasn’t really conducive to looking after a pet. 

The offer of help was one she’d happy accept though, enjoying Zahra’s presence because it felt like they had a lot in common, even if the information they’d shared with each other was limited. It was just a sense the doctor got. “I’d love that, thank you. Why don’t we put yours all back in for return and then we can head up to the medical section?” Her voice lowering as they were now in the confines of the library. @ofzahras

"Not all of them, no. I guess I bit off more than I could chew. Thought I would save myself a few library trips, you know. Didn't really think what would happen when I had to return all of them." She had always been bit of a book hoarder, most comfortable when she knew the information she might need was within arm's reach, but she had previously also been able to take pride in being a fast, motivated reader with the ability to get lost in text even if she wasn't particularly interested in the subject. She had tried to get back to that routine, often re-reading books or research papers she had already deemed fascinating in one way or another, but the results had been less than satisfactory. She knew talking about it with someone might ease the shame, but unfortuntaly Zahra had never great at that. Still, she appreciated this little chat with Julia, especially since it allowed her to gush about her beloved cat. "I have to admit if I already got a cat stroller for her but I am still trying to figure out if I'm confident enough to take it out for a spin. Might garner some weird looks."

Her head tilted to the side as Julia explained what she was looking for. "Oh? I see. I'm not doing anything at the moment if you need help finding some books," she offered, hopeful to pass a few minutes with a clear goal in mind. "It sounds interesting. I'm sure you'll do great."

Julia nodded at the mention of not thinking about actually working here, but the sad reality was a lot of their patients were here for a while - and there would be something to be said for them being able to have help with their schoolwork from a friendly face. “You can of course leave them around for parents who are just bringing their children in for outpatient treatment or shorter stays, but if you were up for doing some work with out more long term patients that would also be an attractive prospect for us.” It was true their parents were dealing with big hospital bills (something Julia took great issue with but had no control over) but at the same time she didn’t feel right in this woman not getting paid either. “Well perhaps there is some way we could work out a reduced rate for patients, after all it’s not fair that you don’t get paid for your work.” 

“Charlie, lovely to meet you, I’m Doctor Julia Sato.” Glancing down at the pamphlet where sure enough it stated Charlie’s name where she pointed. As for the anxiety it was understandable, a lot of people found hospitals anxiety inducing, which is why she gave her what she hoped was a reassuring smile. “It’s understandable, but there is really no need to be anxious. I know hospitals can be stressful but I promise we don’t bite.” @callmecharliejones

"I do up to ages about, um ten? eleven? and I... actually haven't thought about working here." Charlie said nodding at the doctor curiously but of course kids that had long stays at the hospital might need some help keeping up with school. Even though they shouldn't, they probably had enough to deal with if they were ill. "Oh but I can't possibly charge for that, honestly. That'd be heartless, right? They're ill, their parents probably have too much on their mind already." She pouted to herself, already feeling sad about the whole situation but wanting to do it anyway.

She looked up at the other and gave her a small smile. "Sorry, I'm Charlie." She pointed at the pamphlet in the doctor's hand. "And I'm way too sensitive and terrible with hospitals. And when I'm anxious, I can't stop talking. Nice to meet you."

It was strange, knowing she was a mother but not being a mother, something Julia struggled with on her lowest days. Many would question why she worked so closely with children if this was the case but it actually brought her a lot of comfort ironically. Getting to help them in a way she didn’t get to help her own son or daughter was a weird way of her silently repenting for her failure to them. She was grabbing some food, actual food rather than something out of the vending machine for once, mid yogurt when Elliot came into sight. Returning his smile with a small one of her own she lifted the spoon to give it a little wave, nodding to the chair in front of her as a silent invitation to join her at the table. Waiting patiently for him to pass over his phone so she could read it, letting out a small chuckle at the question. A shake of her head as she started to reply. “I wish I could, but she’s going to carry on partying between 1 and 3am, it’ll just be out of the house when she’s older. No I’m joking - she should hopefully start sleeping better soon. Have you got much of a routine for her?” @elliot-appsley

Who: @drjuliarebeiro Where: The Hospital

Ever since becoming a dad, Elliot did his best to try and not work night shifts. Wanting to be home to take care of Sawyer and put her to bed for the night. But there were also times where it couldn't be avoided, where he would have to pull an overnight and that was where he currently found himself. Between a rough previous night with Sawyer, who flat out refused to sleep it seemed like, he had barely caught up on sleep during the day. So when his break finally rolled around, he made his way to the cafeteria. Grabbing the largest coffee he could get his hands on and a hot sandwich to hold him over. Looking around at the tables, he saw Julia not too far off, and made his way over to her. Giving her a tired grin in greeting as he sat and pulled his phone out. Even if you have to lie to me, I need you to tell me that at some point in her little life, Sawyer will want to stop partying from 1 am to 3 am. Letting out an amused huff as he slid his phone over to her.

Julia smiled, a real smile that filtered up to her eyes making them warm, because something sweet like that for no other reason than being kind was…unexpected. She appreciated it through, immediately warming to the man in front of her. “I’m going to consider it a good sign for my day moving forward. As for needing it…you aren’t wrong. I’m a doctor, just came off a fourteen hour shift, so this out of nowhere kindness is something I didn’t know I needed but it turns out maybe I very much did.” A soft laugh as she pushed a hand through her bedraggled hair, sighing just after. His playful nature was refreshing after the weight of everything that was going on at work. “Is this something you do often, Sebastian? Showing kindness to strangers in the form of caffeine?” @sebastianxwinters

Sebastian smiled over at Julia who had just now introduced who she was. He thought she was pretty. Of course not his taste and god knows what was going on with Austin now. The two had gotten cozy with one another and he was incredibly happy for that but his actions lately could've jeopardized that drastically. "Nice to meet you as well, Julia." He replied as he then chuckled at her question. "Well I guess I just wanted to do something nice for somebody and you happened to be the luckily one and it seems that I picked well because you seem to need it." He replied, sliding her a playful smirk. @doctorjuliasato