Episode 9

Silvano: My wife and I have watched you since we arrived here with my son; you are an incredibly dedicated worker. My son has been surrounded by women, but we realize they're just out to use him, nothing more. We know you don't feel anything for my son either, but without knowing who he is, you've still visited him daily, a task not required of you. I've also seen how you converse with him. We can tell you're good-hearted, which is why my wife and I have considered you. All we wanted in exchange was to be kept informed if there was any hope in my son's condition, but that's a different story now. Everyone has problems, and yours are the ones needing attention; ours are inconsequential. Please, let us help you.

Catalina: Honestly, it's a difficult situation for me.

Sandra: If you don't accept our help, at least to lighten your burden, your health will suffer. You're responsible for your little sister, and if you're not well, neither will she be. Allow us to help you with no strings attached.

Silvano: Please, accept our help.

Catalina thought it over, and they were right. She just couldn't cope any longer, and her sister deserved some stability.

Catalina: Fine, but I don't want charity. I want to help you in return, perhaps by working or cleaning your house or something similar.

Sandra: Not at all, we already have staff for those tasks. But if you'd like, you can continue visiting my son as you've been. That's all I ask.

Catalina: I don't know how to repay your kindness.

Silvano: By being happy. From this moment, you can stop worrying.

Catalina smiled at them, showing her gratitude...

A few hours later, the doctor let her go, telling her to rest and not return to work until Monday since it was Friday and she wasn't scheduled to work on Saturday. He gave her vitamins and instructed her to take them on time; she needed to recuperate.

Catalina agreed and thanked him. Mr. Silvano asked his driver to take her to her apartment and to quit her restaurant job for her. She needed to sleep properly, and the job was robbing her of rest. They would stay with their son, but they would discuss some changes on Monday. Catalina left and reached her apartment, where her sister greeted and embraced her, noticing her paleness with concern. But Catalina explained what had happened and that she had received care.

They entered the apartment, Catalina hoping to feel some relief, but instead she felt uneasy about her new decision. She didn't want to burden Bruno's parents, who had enough on their plate. Catalina retreated to her room to rest. Her sister made her a salad and brought it over; they watched a movie together until little Sofia fell asleep. Catalina turned off the TV and reflected on what was to come and how things would change. She needed to inform her sister about the help they'd receive and also tell her friend. The restaurant resignation also weighed on her mind. Had she made the right decision in accepting their offer? Questions without answers raced through her mind until, amidst her pondering, sleep finally overcame her...