“And what if you are rejecting a genuine opportunity because you’re afraid?”
Raúl had no answer.
That night, he lay awake thinking about his mother’s treatment, his sisters’ future, and Raquel’s lonely eyes.
He wondered whether he was being principled or simply stubborn.
He also wondered why the woman kept appearing in his thoughts.
Three days later, he called her.
“I can meet you for lunch,” he said. “But I want to be clear about something.”
“Anything.”
“I won’t accept money for being there.”
Raquel was silent for a moment.
“Then lunch is my treat, and conversation is the only thing I’m asking for.”
For the first time since meeting her, Raúl smiled.
“All right.”
A Lunch That Changed Everything
When Raúl arrived at the restaurant, he discovered that Raquel had reserved a private dining room.
He wore his cleanest shirt and the only pair of formal trousers he owned. He felt out of place among the polished furniture and expensive decorations.
