Episode 7

As the day progressed, Sabrina returned to the rhythm of her tasks, yet she couldn't shake the thoughts of her morning encounter with the enigmatic man she met at the cafe.

That evening, Sabrina was exhausted after a grueling day's work, but she had no choice but to extend her shift for a special dinner event at the resort, unaware of whom it was for. She donned her pristine uniform and entered the elegantly adorned hall where guests awaited the high-quality service expected.

Roaming the venue, Sabrina distributed exquisite dishes and refined drinks, her glance briefly locking with that of a vaguely familiar man at the main table, flanked by notable business figures. She overheard the other guests mentioning the man's name, Don Mauricio Menecucci—the resort's very owner—dressed with elegance, exuding an air of authority and leadership. Their eyes met fleetingly, causing a chill to race down her spine.

Her heart pounded, her cheeks flushed with a soft red hue. Striving for composure, she reminded herself of her role as an employee and the necessity of delivering exemplary service. Throughout dinner, Don Mauricio's gaze lingered on her, an intense, palpable tension hanging in the air, unnoticed by many.

Don Mauricio, equally taken aback by seeing Sabrina again in this new setting, stole glances at her, sharing an unspoken connection. He pondered whether she grasped the full measure of his identity, his double life, the dangers that surrounded him. As the meal went on, Sabrina's focus on her work wavered, her thoughts consumed by the intriguing man before her.

At one point, Don Mauricio discreetly approached Sabrina in the corridor where she was setting a table amidst the lively hum of conversation and laughter. He observed from afar, the memory of their earlier encounter vibrant in his mind, then drew closer with a polite smile, leaning toward Sabrina to speak.

"It's a pleasure to see you again, Sabrina. You've done an exemplary job tonight," he said kindly.

"Thank you, sir. I'm glad you're pleased with the service," Sabrina replied, maintaining her composure as she continued her setting.

"You intrigue me, Sabrina. There's something about you that piques my curiosity," Don Mauricio commented, edging closer, a whisper that sent shivers along her neck.

"I appreciate the compliment, sir, but I am here to serve. If there's anything else you require, please let me know," she said professionally, attempting to step back, meeting his penetrating gaze.

"Ah, Sabrina, there are so many ways you could be of service. I'd like to learn more about you," he noted, intrigued by her resilience, not swayed like others who'd have pounced at the chance of attention from him.

"Excuse me, sir, but as an employee, I prefer to keep our interaction strictly professional. I am here to cater to your dining needs, and nothing beyond that," Sabrina asserted, standing her ground.

Taken aback by her stance and before he could respond, Sabrina's supervisor intervened.

"Excuse the interruption, Don Menecucci, but we need Sabrina to continue with her tasks. The guests are beginning to conclude their meals," Luciana interjected.

"Of course, I understand. We shall let you work, Sabrina. Until next time," Don Mauricio said with a puzzled look.

Sabrina nodded, returning to her duties, her heart still racing from her brief encounter with Don Mauricio. It was a struggle to focus, his image and their intense exchange echoing in her mind, drawing her like a magnet.

When dinner concluded, Sabrina and the other employees cleared the dishes to the kitchen. Luciana pulled her aside into a small room.

"Sabrina, I saw your attempt today," Luciana said, tense.

"How so?" Sabrina inquired, baffled.

"I noticed the way you presented yourself to Don Mauricio. Do that again, and I will report it to our manager, resulting in your dismissal for cause," Luciana threatened.

"I did no such thing, Ms. Luciana," Sabrina countered, taking offense.

"I saw the proximity of your conversation, Sabrina. This is your final warning," Luciana stated, exiting with a slam.

Swallowing her retort to Luciana, Sabrina calmed herself, grabbed her belongings, and fortuitously, Camila, who also worked late, offered her a ride home.

"Camila, I know you said not to ask questions, but now that we're off work, I have one," Sabrina said awkwardly.

"What is it?" Camila inquired while driving.

"I served dinner to Mr. Menecucci tonight and heard him called Don Mauricio—why 'Don'?" Sabrina wondered.

"It's a title due to the responsibilities he bears," Camila answered curtly as they traveled.

"I thought it might signify him being DOMINEERING or something," Sabrina joked.

"He's indeed very domineering and controlling, Sabrina. It's crucial for you to do your job and stay as far as possible from the boss," Camila warned sternly.

"I hadn't planned on getting close; I was just curious," Sabrina explained.

"Sabrina, when I said not to listen, see, or ask—I meant it," Camila uttered gravely.

"Sorry, won't happen again," Sabrina conceded, feeling Camila's reluctance to discuss it, though her own curiosity only grew.

Arriving home to find Mavie asleep, Sabrina showered and sought information on Dom Mauricio or his family online. Finding no photos, only interviews about his wealth and enterprises, she grew weary and decided to rest for a fresh start the following day.