Episode 16

After the doctor informed Sabrina that she could not visit Mavie in the ICU due to facility restrictions, Don Mauricio noticed the sadness and distress on her face. He approached her with kindness and offered his support.

"Sabrina, I understand how difficult this is for you. Come, let's step out of the hospital for a moment; you need to eat something."

"I'm not hungry, I'll stay here in the waiting room," Sabrina said.

"You need the energy to care for your daughter. Let's have something light and talk a bit; my security will keep an eye out and ensure everything is well."

With tears brimming in her eyes, Sabrina nodded and followed Don Mauricio to a restaurant across from the hospital. They sat at a reserved table surrounded by a quiet, private atmosphere. Don Mauricio also owned the place, and everyone knew him. He ordered a light meal for them, and while waiting, he thought about how to comfort her.

"Sabrina, everything will be alright," he said, trying to ease the situation upon noticing the tears in her eyes.

"Don Mauricio, I don't know what to do. Mavie is in there fighting for her life, and I can't even be by her side. I feel so powerless and guilty for not being with her, for everything my daughter has to endure at such a young age. I wish I could spare her from all the pain in the world," Sabrina spoke, her voice choked with emotion.

"Sabrina, I understand your suffering. The ICU is a restricted area, but you're doing everything possible for Mavie. She knows you love her and that you've always tried to help her."

"I know, but it's so hard not being with her when she needs me the most. I just want to hold her and tell her everything will be fine, even though I don't know how I'm going to afford this surgery; it's a considerable expense, and there's no way to get the funds. The health insurance I acquired from the company is new and won't cover it – you heard the doctor," Sabrina said, her eyes moist with worry.

"Sabrina, I realize you're concerned about Mavie's surgery and the significant cost involved. I would like to offer a solution; I will personally cover all the expenses for your daughter's surgery, on one condition," Don Mauricio said, looking earnestly at her.

"One condition? What is it?" she asked curiously.

"Marry me, Sabrina," he said seriously.

"Marry... you?" she said, surprised.

"You don't need to call me sir, and yes, marry me. I'll cover all the necessary costs for the surgery and whatever is needed," he said.

"You must be joking with me; this can't be serious," Sabrina said, shaking her head in disbelief.

"I am not a man of jokes, Sabrina; I am quite sincere. It's an unexpected proposal, I know, but you must understand it's heartfelt. I'm attracted to you and admire the strength and courage you show. Furthermore, Mavie is a child who deserves a chance for a healthy life, and I would be delighted to become a significant part of your lives," he said earnestly.

Sabrina was stunned by the proposal. She regarded Don Mauricio, attempting to process the emotions swirling within her. On one hand, she felt a special connection to him, treasuring his presence and the care he had shown for her and Mavie. On the other hand, she knew that marriage was not a decision to be made hastily.

"A significant manner? By leveraging my daughter's illness to buy me? I am not a commodity, Don Mauricio, I am not for sale, neither is my daughter!" Sabrina said, standing up from her chair.

"Sabrina, please sit down. Let's talk, try to calm yourself," he said, standing and moving in front of her.

"Calm myself? My daughter needs help while you're here trying to buy me, so don't ask me to be calm, Don Mauricio. I'm not sure what you think I am, but I have always worked to take care of my girl; I don't need to sell myself for any amount of money," she said, facing him.

"I know you're not a commodity, I don't wish to buy you, I just want to help you, Sabrina. Why must you be so prideful with me?" he said, stepping closer.

"Why do you men always think there's a way out, but then it's us women who are left with the scars while you continue with your lives? I appreciate your help thus far, but I don't want to see you ever again," Sabrina stated, agitated.

"Sabrina, don't liken me to them; it's unfair to me. I'm not a boy; I'll help you with whatever is necessary," he said, attempting to maintain his composure.

"I'm sorry, but your money can't buy me, Don Mauricio," Sabrina faced him down.

"I understand that I can't buy you, Sabrina. You are priceless; you are a fantastic woman. But this is about your daughter's life, which currently is worth five hundred thousand dollars. I can resolve this with just one call. Marry me, and I'll take care of everything related to the girl's surgery."

"Don Mauricio, marriage is serious; it must involve love, and I have always been independent, caring for Mavie on my own. Accepting this would mean giving up my freedom and autonomy. I can't sell myself this way, even to save my daughter's life," Sabrina said hesitantly, standing up again.

"Sabrina, if you wish to leave, I won't stop you, but consider my words," he said, looking at her seriously.

"I've considered, and the answer is NO. I'll figure it out without your help, excuse me, Don Mauricio," she said, tense as she swiftly left the restaurant and fortunately managed to run and catch the bus heading towards her village.