Episode 5

Luiza

People leave us when their time comes. Your mother's accident was inevitable, not your fault. Indeed, you too are a victim of it, just like she was. You should be proud; you shielded your sister. Even though she may not understand it now, she will one day appreciate your sacrifice.

Ingrid

And she thanked me by sleeping with my fiancé.

Luiza

Well, that's quite the sisterly act. But think about this: if he was so easily swayed by her, he was not the right one for you. Perhaps it was fortunate that you didn't marry such a man. Instead, you're married to Mr. Jones, a man who, despite appearances, is good at heart.

I laugh inwardly at her naivety. A good person? He's only using me, laying his guilt on me for whatever mess he's entangled in.

As if summoned, his voice echoes in the kitchen.

Sebastian

Luiza, I need a strong coffee.

Luiza

Certainly, sir.

I wipe away my tears, praying that he hadn't overheard our conversation. I hear his footsteps receding and the clatter of Luiza attending to the dishes.

In the office.

I'm restless and annoyed when I return to the office. How can she still claim they don't deserve death? Just hearing her talk makes me want to kill them. My anger tune down a notch when the door opens and Luiza walks in.

Luiza

Your coffee, sir, as strong as you requested.

Sebastian

Thank you!

Luiza

You're welcome, sir.

As Luiza's leaving, Sebastian calls out to her.

Sebastian

Luiza?

Luiza

Yes, sir?

Sebastian

Are the beds in your room comfortable?

Luiza

Yes, they are, sir.

Sebastian

Do you think the single wardrobe will be enough for Ingrid's clothes?

Luiza hides a knowing grin, sensing Sebastian's surprising concern for his wife.

Luiza

I believe so, sir. After all, she only brought that small suitcase. She doesn't have much.

How can a woman fit everything she needs into a suitcase so small? Maybe I should buy her the things she needs or maybe not. Why does it concern me?

Sebastian

Ok, thanks. You can get back to work.

Luiza

Of course, sir.

Luiza heads back to the kitchen, but Ingrid's nowhere to be seen and worry washes over her.

Luiza

Mrs. Ingrid? Where are you, Mrs. Ingrid?

She finally finds Ingrid in the bedroom, sorting out her clothes.

Ingrid

Hey, Luiza, do you need anything?

Luiza

No, Mrs. Ingrid. I just got worried when I didn't see you in the kitchen.

Ingrid

I just came to put these clothes away. Leaving them in the suitcase will wrinkle them.

Luiza

I can do that for you after I finish fixing lunch.

Ingrid

Thanks, but I can handle it. This way, I'll know where everything is when I need it.

Luiza

Or you can just ask me to get it for you.

Ingrid

No need. I can handle it.

Luiza

Yes, ma'am.

I stay in the room, organizing my things while Luiza finishes preparing lunch in the kitchen. Once I'm done, I join her in the kitchen. She's setting the table and helps me to sit. Soon, Sebastian's footsteps echo, and I hear Luiza's voice.

Luiza

Will you be joining us for lunch today, sir?

Sebastian

No, I have to leave and I won't be back tonight. Don't expect me for dinner.

Luiza

Understood, sir.

As I turn to leave, I hear her voice.

Ingrid

Have a wonderful evening, Sebastian.

I turn just enough to see her polite smile, then leave without a word. Even though Ingrid didn't see his paused look, Luiza did.

Ingrid

It wouldn't hurt him to reply, would it?

Luiza

He'll adjust to you eventually, you'll see.

Ingrid

Maybe. Luiza, what have you cooked? The aroma is divine!

Luiza

"I made a risotto and a green salad," said Ingrid.

"Perfect, I can't wait to try it," Luiza responded.

"I will serve you now."

We sat down together, chatted and had lunch. Afterward, I kept her company while she tidied up the kitchen. She took the time to show me where everything was, in case I might need something, like glasses, cups, spoons, and plates. After a while, I asked if there was a garden in the house.

Luiza nodded, "Yes, there is, and a swimming pool, too."

"Cool, can you take me to the garden?" asked Ingrid.

"Sure, ma'am," Luiza agreed.

"Thank you."

"Do you need a reference point for the step counts?" Luiza asked.

"Yes, let's start from the kitchen island."

"Okay."

We began counting steps and it became clear that this house was not suitable for someone with vision problems, as it was split-level. When I reached the living room, there was a step that I had to remember well to avoid accidents. We made our way to the garden and sat down under a pergola that Luiza described to me. It certainly seemed to be as beautiful as the view she had of the garden.

Luiza describes everything she sees to me little by little, painting a beautiful picture in my mind that provokes a smile. For a considerably long time, we stay put until night falls and the wind starts to pick up. Luiza then suggests we go inside.

Luiza

Let's head in, Miss Ingrid. I don't want you to catch a cold.

Ingrid

All right, I'm going to listen to a book and then take a bath, but you'll have to show me where the bathroom and everything else is.

Luiza

Sure, let's go.

She offers me her arm and we head in. Luiza is being exceedingly careful with me, not that it's necessary, but I won't deny that it feels nice having someone care for you. It warms the heart.

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