Episode 8

Heitor Bitencourt

Recalling Juliana and the accident is always extremely painful, especially when I replay the events in my mind. I only drink as I remember everything, but I must stay strong to put the wretch who ruined my life behind bars because ever since I lost Juliana, I've been focused on nothing but work.

Today, I'll keep to myself in the office because it's been three years I've waited for this moment when the forensic results would clear me of the guilt I carried for Juliana's death. I had a few more glasses of whiskey because that's what I do when I'm not well, and once again, Magnolia enters the office.

Heitor - Is something the matter, Magnolia?

Magnolia - No boss, just wanted to ask what you'd like for dinner?

Heitor - I had planned not to eat at home tonight, but since I've had a bit to drink, I've decided to stay in. Can't drive like this; I might get caught in a breathalyzer test.

Magnolia - That's true. So, what would you like for dinner?

Heitor - Something light, please. Will you join me for dinner tonight?

Magnolia - Feeling lonely, Heitor?

Heitor - I'm being polite, Magnolia, but you can eat with the employees if you want, don't feel obligated to keep me company.

She smiles understandingly because we sometimes have these tiffs. Magnolia acts like she's my mother, especially when she takes it upon herself to scold me as if she has that right. That's the price I pay for giving too much trust, freedom, and boldness to my housekeeper.

Magnolia - I might have joined you, boss, but I'm expecting my niece who should be on her way.

Heitor - I'll stay to meet her; hope she won't be overwhelmed by the size of the house she'll have to keep clean.

Magnolia - She won't, Heitor, rest assured about that. Now, I need to go to the kitchen to give Adelaide instructions for dinner, and I think you've had enough to drink. I don’t want my niece to think my boss is a drunkard.

Heitor - I've stopped, Magnolia. Not for that reason, I need to respond to some emails, just for that.

Once again, she shakes her head disapprovingly and leaves my office, leaving me there alone. I decide to turn on my laptop to check my emails while waiting for dinner...

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Luna Vieira

I was amazed by the luxury of the houses in this gated community where Aunt Magnolia works. Even though I lead a financially comfortable life, this is quite different from the farm, which is just wilderness and animals, but I love the countryside. However, now I have to get used to the city.

After confirming the address with the paper and the driver, I pay the fare, get out of the cab, and with the driver’s help, I take my suitcase. I reach for my cell phone in my purse, but it’s out of charge, so I decide to ring the bell of the massive house, which is promptly opened by my Aunt Magnolia...

Luna - Aunt Mag...

Magnolia - My dear Luna, come here and give me a hug, my princess. It’s been so long since I last saw you; you've become even more beautiful than I remember.

Luna - Thank you. I was worried I had the wrong address, but luckily I got it right.

Magnolia - I understand how you feel, but you'll get used to all this eventually. Now come, my princess, let me embrace you.

Luna - Of course, Aunt Mag, I’ve missed you so much.

We smile and hug each other, moved by the long time that has passed since we last saw each other. As we hug, I take in every detail of the luxurious house, which, from afar, reminds me of that farmhouse. After a few minutes, my mother's friend says...

Magnolia - Before I show you around the house, I need to introduce you to the boss, Mr. Heitor; he can be a bit gruff, but he's a good person.

Luna - Alright, I hope he likes me.

She doesn't reply, just smiles, and I place my suitcase in a corner of the living room. Together with Aunt Magnolia, we head toward a door that probably leads to her boss's office, which will now also be mine, and she opens it.

Magnolia - Heitor, this is my niece Luna...

Heitor - Ah, yes, you are...

I look at the blonde with blue eyes standing before me. She seems startled but is undoubtedly beautiful. With a serious expression, she extends her delicate hand to greet me...