I thought about Danielaโ€”a young woman, working, adjusting to her new home, and carrying a secret she never asked for. I blamed myself for having distrusted her.

The next morning, Luis showed up at the station. Slim, modestly dressed, bowed to me:

โ€œIโ€™m sorry, maโ€™am. I didnโ€™t mean to cause troubleโ€ฆ I just had no other place.โ€

I looked at him for a long time. Finally, I sighed:

โ€œNo one deserves to live in fear. If youโ€™re honest and want to get aheadโ€ฆ Iโ€™ll help you however I can.โ€

Daniela lowered her gaze, tears in her eyes.

A few months laterโ€ฆ

Leonardo found out. At first, he was angry. But when he understood the full story, he felt more love and admiration for his wife. Together, he and I helped Luis regularize his situation and free himself from the moneylenders with the help of the police.

Today, Luis works at a large appliance repair shop. He rents his own room. He lives in peace. He no longer hides.

That night, after dinner, Daniela went to shower. She was out in 20 minutes. The scent was sweet. Her hair was still dripping with water.

I smiled and offered her a cup of tea:

โ€œThat was quick. Isnโ€™t there anyone hiding in there anymore?โ€

Daniela blushedโ€”and laughed.