Chapter 5

But Maria couldn't answer, since she had no child.

Her lips trembled.

"From... from..." Her voice faltered. Then suddenly an idea struck her.

"It's from my mom. She passed away. I wrote this song in her memory," she said.

Soft whispers filled the audience.

Some people nodded; others were visibly moved.

One audience member whispered, "So Maria's mom passed away. She's such a loving daughter."

Someone wiped away tears and said, "No wonder this song is so touching."

Maria found her footing, her voice growing steadier.

She explained, "My mom passed away when I was young. I always regretted that…