Episode 8

Sandra: How do you feel?

Catalina: Well, Mrs. Sandra, thank you for assisting us both.

Sandra: We tried to contact your family but found no telephone number. Would you like to give us one?

Catalina's eyes filled with tears.

Silvano: Is something wrong?

Catalina took a deep breath, trying to compose herself.

Catalina: No, it's just that I'm an orphan; my parents have passed away.

Sandra: Oh, I'm so sorry. Are you alone?

Catalina: I have a younger sister waiting for me at home.

Sandra: Catalina, you gave me so much hope and trust regarding my son, I don’t know if I can offer you the same.

Catalina: Yes, Mrs. Sandra, you seem like a very kind person.

Sandra: Well, then, can you tell me why you are like this? What's happening to you?

Catalina considered telling them, especially with Silvano there.

Silvano: You must be having problems; the doctor said that your body is starting to speak for you. Maybe you're stressed and need some help. Let us help you, Catalina. What’s going on?

Catalina: Well, yes, I went through some trouble a few weeks ago, but I’m not sure I should share my private life.

Sandra: I understand that, my dear, but sometimes it’s good to talk to someone.

Catalina: Well, yes, but I'm not sure it should be with you. Mrs. Sandra, I respect you immensely, but I don't want you to feel bad.

Silvano: How long have you had problems?

Catalina: Well, manageable problems since my mother's death, but things got worse the afternoon you told me what you did.

Sandra: When I told you what? About marrying our son?

Catalina: What? You knew?

Sandra: Yes, Catalina.

Catalina: Oh, Mrs. Sandra, that's why I stopped talking to your husband.

Sandra: I know, and it shows that you are a girl with good values.

Catalina: But why would you do that to your son?

Sandra: That's not important right now. What matters is you. Let me help you. Tell me what's happening to you.

Catalina: Well, that day I arrived home, only to discover there was no house; our house had burned down. Thankfully, my sister was fine. The little our parents left us was gone. A friend provided us with shelter and food, but I had to find a place for us. She has her boyfriend, and we were in the way. I looked for an apartment and even started waitressing. I truly approached everything with positivity and determination, but somehow, my body is out of energy. I've made several mistakes that are about to cost me my job, and if I hadn't woken up now, it would’ve affected my internship as well. I thought about pausing my studies, but then I would lose my scholarship and wouldn’t have another chance. I wanted to do everything I could to save everything but I think I can't. I miss my parents so much (Catalina began to cry, and Sandra quickly embraced her).

Sandra: Oh, dear, cry as much as you need to. We won't say a word.

Catalina felt Sandra's embrace, which offered her a sense of comfort. She cried and poured her heart out to her. Silvano pondered silently, and half an hour passed in silence.

Silvano: Catalina, let us help you financially.

Catalina: No, there's no need for you to do that, and I really can't accept it. Thank you so much.

Silvano: Listen, dear, no one will ask you for anything in return, just be happy. Both my wife and I want to do this; you are a very noble and humble girl, let us help.

Catalina: Can I ask why you wanted me to marry your son?

Silvano: Yes, of course. I own several businesses; you must know what family we are, right?

Catalina: Honestly, I have no idea.

Silvano: Well, if you look up our surnames on the Internet, you'll understand. The thing is, we have several enterprises and ventures, all above board. I plan to retire this year, and all of my business would pass into my son and daughter's hands. Since my daughter is even younger than Bruno, I wouldn't demand the same from her, so Bruno would be in charge for a while. However, for my son to have full control, he must be married—it's a family business requirement. Hence, he needs to start a family soon; that's why we thought of you.

Catalina: But why me?...

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