At lunchtime, I stayed locked in my office, devouring a chicken with farofa, my all-time favorite Brazilian dish. I waited patiently for Gavin's message with updates about the girl.

The morning went smoothly, without any major incidents, and there were no problems to solve. To be completely honest, I spent most of the time reviewing the revenue from the last three days, sending some routine emails, and wondering if it would be highly unethical to leave early.

I wanted to visit her, but work wouldn't allow it. I knew that with Gavin there, my supervision was unnecessary. But I didn't want to act as her bodyguard, rather as... a friend? A supporter? An American businessman very interested in her recovery?

Gavin had spent most of the time with her, and I felt guilty for leaving him alone in that situation. But I also wanted the girl to know that I was doing everything I could to stay close, without suffocating or scaring her. I wanted her to trust both of us and know that we were both committed.

She would need all the support and affection in the world to get back on her feet. There was no doubt about that.

I couldn't get the image out of my head: her tired face and fragile body making the best gesture of thanks she could muster.

As I mulled over this, however, I started to consider another possibility. This one was more painful than hopeful, actually.

What if she was apologizing, not thanking us?

What if she felt guilty and was trying to say that our efforts, despite being noble, would be in vain and she was sorry for that?

Well, if that was the case, it didn't matter. Because I never see a challenge in front of me and back down. I wouldn't give up on seeing her happy, even if she herself didn't believe in her own recovery. I was here, standing, and I wouldn't turn a blind eye to someone who was in the same hell I had escaped from.

As soon as my shift ended, I would go to Gavin's apartment and talk with her. With them.

I glanced at the digital clock on the taskbar and sighed, resigned. Not much longer to go.