Julian rested his elbows on the table and interlaced his fingers, as if he were making an important decision.
—Elena —he finally said—, what I proposed to you a few minutes ago still stands.
The young woman looked down at the account folder.
For a moment he thought of Sofia.
He thought about the long nights of work.
He thought about the worn-out uniforms and Mrs. Herrera’s insults.
And he thought about his sister’s artistic dreams.
“What exactly would that job entail?” he asked cautiously.
Julian smiled slightly, appreciating his prudence.
“My mother lives in a large house near the sea,” she explained, “and she needs someone who can communicate with her daily, keep her company, and help her feel included in the world.”
Carmen nodded enthusiastically as she watched each word being translated.
“Furthermore,” continued Julian, “I want to create a program within my hotels so that employees can learn sign language.”
Elena looked up in surprise.
—In all of your hotels?
Julian nodded.
—I have thirty-two in different cities.
The news left Elena completely stunned.
Because suddenly that conversation was no longer just a personal opportunity.
It was something much bigger.
Carmen started moving her hands quickly again.
Elena translated with an excited smile.
—He says that many deaf people could feel welcome in places where they previously felt invisible.
Julian looked at Elena with a serious expression.
—And you could help us make it happen.
At that moment, several nearby customers had stopped pretending not to hear.
The story unfolding at that table was beginning to attract the silent attention of the entire restaurant.
Mrs. Herrera walked towards the table with a strained smile.
“Mr. Valdés,” he said with forced courtesy, “I hope everything is to your liking.”
Julian looked up.
—Yes, everything is perfect.
The woman glanced briefly at Elena.
—I’m glad to hear that.
But his tone did not convey joy.
He conveyed concern.
Because he fully understood what was happening.
And he knew that his treatment of Elena could have consequences.
Julian closed the account folder.
—Elena —he said calmly—, I would like you to come to my office tomorrow so we can talk more calmly.
Elena felt her heart pounding in her chest.
—What time, sir?
—At ten in the morning.
Carmen took the young woman’s hand again.
Her green eyes shone with an unexpected tenderness.
Then he slowly moved his hands.
Elena translated in a low voice.