Officer Daniels: [adjusting his cap] Ma’am, is everything alright here?
Maria: [rubs her belly, looking tired] Yeah, I’m fine. Just… my car decided to stop working. Perfect timing, right?
Officer Daniels: I hear you. Cars never pick a good moment. [pauses, glancing at her stomach] You sure you’re okay standing out here?
Maria: Honestly? Not really. I’ve been having some back pain all day, and now this. I was on my way to my doctor’s appointment.
Officer Daniels: Alright. First things first, let’s get you somewhere safe to sit. Do you want me to call a tow truck—or maybe a family member to come pick you up?
Maria: My husband’s at work, but if you could help with a tow, that’d be great. I just… don’t want to be standing here too long.
Officer Daniels: No problem. I’ll radio it in. [softer tone] And if you start feeling worse, I can get an ambulance here right away.
Maria: [gives a tired smile] Thanks. I appreciate that. I didn’t want to make a fuss, but I really don’t want to risk anything with the baby.
Officer Daniels: That’s not a fuss, ma’am. That’s called being smart.
The officer radios for assistance while Maria leans against the car, relieved she isn’t handling the situation alone anymore.
