—Gabriel Albuquerque? The billionaire? Did you sleep in a billionaire’s car?

I tried to ignore the card for three days.

But the rent was overdue.

I called.

—Albuquerque.

—It’s Helena… the girl who invaded your car.

He laughed softly.

I didn’t think you’d call.

I need money more than pride.

—When can you start?

-Tomorrow.

What begins as work…
The house in Lomas de Chapultepec looked like something out of a movie. Three levels. Impeccable gardens.

He was behind a huge desk, wearing a white shirt with rolled up sleeves.

“You didn’t run away”, he said.

“I need the money.”

“I like your honesty.”

The salary was triple what I earned in my two jobs together.

—It’s too much.

—It’s fair.

When we shook hands, I felt something electric.

But we pretend not to.

It was work.

Just work.

For weeks I organized his chaotic schedule, negotiated meetings and optimized trips. He recognized my ability.

«You’re not here out of pity», he once told me. «You are here because you are brilliant».

No one had called me brilliant before.

A month later he invited me to a business event in Polanco.

—Like my assistant —clarified.

Lights, businessmen, evaluative looks.

Without saying a word, he put his hand on my back. He wasn’t possessive, just supportive.

I felt safe.

And that was dangerous.

The rumors began.

“The new assistant.”
“Always by your side.”

One night I exploded.

“I don’t want them to think I’m here because he rescued me”.

He stared at me

—I hired you because you are exceptional. The rest are just other people’s insecurities.

Then he added:

“I admire you, Helena.”

He didn’t say “I wish you”.

He said admiration

And that meant more.