2021-05-19 19:43:51Josias smiles slightly, by the right corner of his mouth. Here he was, shirtless, just in sweatpants and slippers, with less than five bucks in his pocket, without papers (he had just taken them off after insisting a lot on his late father). His life as he knew it is over. Here, in the Happiness Slum, a new Josias was about to be born. He would build his life, using Everaldo's words.
However, there was an excerpt from Everaldo's sentence that deserved attention, “you will have the willpower”. That is, it was not just waiting for God's blessings to fall from Heaven. Josias needed to have the willpower to make it happen, needed to move, and needed to use his hands. He needed courage and confidence.
Arming himself with both feelings, he takes a deep breath and heads for the building.
Upon entering, Josias found that in fact, the owner of the building took care that the entrance was similar to the lobby of a hotel or a high-class apartment building. The rectangular space, painted in light blue, had a counter on one side, where a man in his sixties with a mustache and chubby was, and on the other side, there was a rack of mail for the residents. The shelf was separated into several compartments, each for a room. Two sofas, a clock nailed to the wall, plant vases, and a rug at the entrance that said “Welcome” completed the decoration of the place. Josias smiles widely. The owner of the building tried to make a great job.
Josias approaches the counter. The man listened to the radio, it was a football match. Upon realizing Josias's presence, he turns to the boy.
“Good evening.” The old man speaks in a friendly tone, “How can I help you?”
“Sir, I need a vacant room,” Josias speaks without being afraid.
The owner of the room building for rent watches Josias from top to bottom before proceeding, not believing what he heard. “Really, boy? How do you expect me to leave you here?”
Josias takes a deep breath. He expected that. However, Everaldo's words do not leave his head. “You will get out of this and you will be successful.” He needed to try.
“Sir, here's the matter: I just ran away from home because my father was murdered while I was in my bedroom.” It was the first time that Josias spoke about what happened to someone, “They wanted money from my father, and they were bill collectors for a loan shark.”
“I didn't hear of anyone murdered around here.” The man replies with a frown. Josias's story could very well be made up.
Josias, however, tries to explain, “No, it wasn't here. I don't live here, I ran away from Rainbow Garden. I just took a shower and just had time to put on my underwear and sweatpants when I heard the invasion, the argument between them... and then the shots.”
The lord land looked at him with a suspicious face. If he was a resident of Happiness Slum, it would be understandable if Josias did not go to the police, for the reason they killed his father. But, being a resident of Rainbow Garden... “Why didn't you go to the police, why did you just come here, to a more rough area neighborhood?”
Josias shrugs. “I'm not sure... I just wanted to hide, and I wasn't going to be able to hide in Europe Garden.” Europe Garden is the upper-class neighborhood of Lagoon City.
The word “hide” is what makes the building owner uneasy. “Look here, boy, how am I supposed to know if it’s not YOU who killed, or did something else wrong, and now you’re trying to hide in my building? If the police show up here, don't even expect me to lie to protect you. I don’t get into trouble, the ‘scoundrels’ who live here already know that. They stay over there and leave me alone, and I don't meddle with them.”
Upon hearing that the old man was not to get into trouble, Josias felt even more inwardly that this was the perfect place for him to stay. The loan shark collectors, if they go looking for him, will not show up in the building where he is.
Josias leans over to the counter, dips his hands into the plastic surface, and speaks with urgency and pleading tone, “I know it sounds strange, sir, but everything I told you is true. See, I didn't even have a chance to mourn my father's death. I don't even know if the neighbors heard the shot; if anyone has found him or if the police are there. As I said, I only had time to put this on and I took only a few bucks that I had seen on my dresser, and I took the bus without knowing where to go.”
“And stopped right there!” The man can't help laughing. However, he begins to better analyze the story told by Josias. It was too elaborate, with too much detail, to be a made-up lie at the last minute.
“Let me see how much you have.” The man crosses his arms and makes this request, already aware that Josias is not going to put five thousand dollars on the counter.
Previous Chapter
Related Chapters
Building My Life Chapter 5 The Mercy of the Landlord
When Josias reaches into his sweatpants pocket and pulls it out, he deposits the few remaining notes and pennies on the counter. The old man adds the amount, and responds with a tone of concern, not mockery, “It doesn't even give five bucks, buddy. I can't even let you stay here overnight.”Josias takes the money back and puts it away. “I know, so I thought I could count on your mercy. As you are already aware, my father was murdered, the moneylender probably knows that my father had me as a son, and if they find me, they will either kill me or they will want to torment me so that I pay the debt. I will not be there to suffer either. My mother got divorced and disappeared from the city; she is probably in Europe with a very rich guy. I have no one here.”“So let's do the following.” The elderly man goes to a dresser and opens a drawer. He takes something and closes it. When he turns around, Josias realizes that it is money. “I'
Building My Life Chapter 6 The Beginning
The sun's beam came in through the open window, illuminating Josias's room. And when the light reached his eyes, Josias had to wake up, even against his will.He stretches on the bed, under a thin sheet that was folded on the bed when he entered. The sweatpants were on the back of a wooden chair. Other than that and another dresser, there was nothing else in Josias's room.Josias gets up, still wearing his briefs, goes to the open door to the balcony (he always had this habit of sleeping with the window open, even with mosquitoes coming in. That's why the window was providentially open when he needed to escape) and watches the activity of the shantytown. From the third floor, he had a good view of the area. As he looked down, he saw children and teenagers in school uniforms going to study, women socially dressed, probably going to work as attendants or secretaries, older women going to work as cleaners for some wealthy family, and men in industrial uniforms or plain cl
Building My Life Chapter 7 He Helps Even Being Short of Money
Josias finishes crying and breaks the hug. He wipes away tears. “Thank you very much for your consideration, Seu Teodoro.”“You welcome, young man. Come on; I offer you coffee.”Josias takes the opportunity to ask, “Seu Teodoro, how does it work here? For example, I know that we are not in a five-star hotel, but in my room, there is not even a sink.”Teodoro smiles, he understands that Josias did not want to be ungrateful. “I understand. Well, downstairs here are the bathrooms. I did my best to have the men's and women's bathrooms so that everyone was comfortable and had no complaints. We have families with children, and I wouldn't be comfortable with letting children bathe with adults.”Josias agrees with the head, it was necessary to be careful. But, families with children? When verbalizing the question, Teodoro explains, “Here I had some two-bedroom apartments built, providing that families could co
Building My Life Chapter 8 Glad to meet you
The girl is startled and faces the boy who wants to help her. Between the shocks, there were seconds to admire. For someone in his 30s, Josias would be considered skinny; but for someone her age, Josias was muscular.Josias donates R$ 2.00 of his already limited money to help her. “Here it is.” He turns to her, “Sorry, miss. But, I saw you so smiling when choosing the shampoo; I wouldn't want you to leave without it.”The girl smiles in thanks. “Thanks. It's the shampoo everyone is using; I don't want to be left behind. My friends said it was great.”“By the way, my name is Josias,” Josias spoke with such certainty that they would meet again. Meanwhile, the clerk adds up and receives payment from him.“Melissa.” The girl responds, now taking a closer look at the boy who helped her.They say that while men turn their heads and make it obvious that they are admiring a woman; a woman can do t
Building My Life Chapter 9 Going to Downtown
Teodoro smiles when he sees Josias enchanted by a resident girl of Happiness Slum. “My boy, take it easy with that heart. Do I know her by any chance?”“Her name is Melissa.” Josias responds as if he is singing, “And she lives further on.” Josias, however, shakes his head, “Well, what am I doing? Okay, the girl is beautiful and nice, and she was admiring my chest, even though I am not muscular; but, I need to find something. She must think I am a pervert for walking without a shirt.”“There is nothing wrong with a man walking around without a shirt, especially in this heat.” Teodoro ponders, “But, as I warned you, better to start buying your things.”Josias smiles as he remembers. “Her father is very strict; he doesn't want his dear daughter to marry a poor man. So I better get ahead.”Josias starts walking out of the reception. Teodoro asks him, “Hey, where are you
Building My Life Chapter 10 Would it Be an Angel?
Upon returning to the building, Teodoro was already having lunch. He holds the plate up and invites Josias. “You can go in there if you can.”Josias approaches the counter. “Do you believe that I almost saw the boy who encouraged me not to give up?”“What do you mean, give up?” Teodoro frowns, “Were you trying to kill yourself?”“No, but all of a sudden, when I was on the bus, this boy in religious style and clothes was on a seat behind me, and when I was leaving, he asked if I needed help. When I asked him to pray for me, he smiled and promised that not only would he pray for me, but that my life would be great and successful.”Teodoro stops chewing and swallows. His face is serious. “And you don't know who it is?”“He embarked at Rainbow Garden, but I had never seen him before.” Josias scratches his head. “Although the neighborhood is large and I don't know
Building My Life Chapter 11 Routine on the Building
Josias takes the key from Teodoro and goes up the stairs. Upon entering the room, he takes off his sweatpants and places it on the back of the chair. Today is hot to have a beer, just as Melissa's father wishes. He leaves the balcony door open and lies down on the bed, takes off his briefs, and curls up on the sheet.Do not misjudge Josias for sleep naked. It's just that he is disgusted to wear the same briefs, and his sweatpants are also in utter misery.Josias wakes up the next day, which promises to be another hot day, already getting discouraged with the prospect of work. He gets up and goes to the balcony, looking at the horizon and the activity of the favela. The same girl from the other building meets Josias and this time she dares to wave a hello, to which he corresponds. At this point, the girl is wondering if Josias wears a shirt. If she knew...Josias takes the towel that is folded on the chair and wraps it around his waist, goes to the dresser, and t
Building My Life Chapter 12 Finding Something to Begin
When Josias goes down to the bathroom, he decides to just wash his face and brush his teeth. He no longer cared about other men bathing uninhibited in front of him, as he only took a shower late at night, before going to sleep, just so he wouldn't meet anyone.As he approaches the reception, Teodoro is almost crying with the debut of “Lady”, by Kenny Rogers, being played on the radio with profusion. “The guy sings very well, how wonderful...” Teodoro notices Josias's presence, “Hello, boy, good morning. Are you going out again?”Josias reaches out his hand to prevent Teodoro from giving him more money. “Not today, Seu Teodoro. I am going to take a walk right here in the locality.”Teodoro raises an eyebrow. “Really? Well, I must warn you that here you will only find that type of job that requires a lot of effort and very little reward.” He makes a “money” sign with his fingers.Josias
Latest Chapter
Chapter 3234 The Girlfriend Showed Up
At the Mountain Penthouse, Kelvin and Daryl were relieved that everything had turned out okay. Diane and Karen were nearby, on the sofas, chatting cheerfully. “God was merciful and allowed our son to live a few more years,” Diane declared. “Now, you both need to rest,” Karen patted Kelvin’s chest. “We slept beautifully while you two were in that sterile lounge.” Kelvin yawned once more. “I think I’ll take my dear wife’s advice; what do you think, Daryl?” “Who said we own the place?” Daryl yawned as well. The ladies laughed at their funny husbands. The doorbell rang. Tony passed through the living room, offering, “I’ll get it.” When Tony opened the door, he was surprised by the visitor. “Miss Cogo?” “How funny, you don’t call me by my first name. Did Felipe manage to talk to you before the coma?” Suzy asked bitterly, without smiling. Tony reacted perplexed by this torrent of unfriendly words. “Uh... Come in, please.” Suzy entered, ready for the storm. “Who is it, big brothe
Chapter 3233 A Surprising Report
The next day, Matthew Hogan entered the General Hospital lounge and found Daryl and Kelvin incredibly exhausted but hopeful. “Doctor, how did it go?” Daryl nearly jumped on Matthew. “Calm down, the patient survived the surgery. It’s just a matter of time before he’s back in his room.” “Oh, thank God!” Kelvin cheered. Daryl couldn’t resist and hugged Matthew. “Thank you so much, doctor!” Matthew smiled, somewhat awkwardly, but aware that it was a common reaction. “You’re welcome, we did everything we could.” “Yeah, I understand.” Daryl released the hug, rubbing his eyes — whether from sleep or wiping away a tear. “It’s going to take a little while. I suggest you both go home and rest a bit,” Matthew said. “I think we’ll do just that,” Kelvin yawned. “Now that the danger has passed, I think I deserve it. Doctor, let us know if anything happens,” Daryl requested, patting the doctor’s shoulder. “I’ll do. And congratulations to you both.” Matthew left the lounge. Kelvin yawned a
Chapter 3232 The Detective I Trust
At the Rocha Hotel, Eugenio and Jake are talking to Suzy about what is happening. Jake was upset. “Suzy, haven’t you gone to visit your boyfriend yet?” “I don’t know if it’s a good idea to show up there right now.” Suzy lowered her head. “The fight happened... here?” Eugenio responded indignantly, “Yes, in my beloved living room. Luís lost his temper when Felipe called him ‘Spanish Stallion.’“ Suzy lifted her head, completely changing her posture. “WHAT? Well, then, the beating didn’t come out of nowhere!” “Come on, sis, don’t go along with this,” Jake advised her. “They’re saying Felipe’s condition is serious.” “Serious is Luís getting teased every single day by the nickname he despises the most!” Suzy exclaimed. Eugenio decided to tell the whole story, “Suzy, there’s a lot more you don’t know.” “Tell me, uncle!” “Felipe, before being assaulted, said he wouldn’t continue dating you, claiming that the Cogo family would always prefer Luís.” Suzy reacted, paralyzed by this inf
Chapter 3231 The Viper of Lagoon City
Rodrigo and Nadia entered the General Hospital lounge, finding Karen and Diane. “We’re here! Where’s Daryl?” Nadia approached the couch. “He went to check with Kelvin for more information,” Diane sniffed. “Thanks for coming.” “We wouldn’t be family if we didn’t show up,” Nadia sat down near them. “And I’m a mother too.” Rodrigo poured himself some coffee. “Any news?” Diane took a deep breath. “Felipe is still awake. Dr. Hogan said the tests revealed a concussion, and they’re now deciding if surgery will be necessary.” “How horrible.” Nadia shuddered. “Well, whether surgery is necessary or not, I hope everything goes well for Felipe.” “Now, I find it strange that Suzy still hasn’t shown up!” Karen frowned. “Did you see her outside?” “No. We thought she was inside or with Daryl,” Nadia replied honestly. Diane shook her head. “No, guys, I can’t believe Suzy would choose to work or handle investments instead of checking on her boyfriend!” Rodrigo took a sip – the coffee wasn’t a
Chapter 3230 The Lady of Lagoon City Makes a Powerful Speech
At Vaztrans, William swallowed hard before answering Sofia’s question.“Sofia, your cousin really went too far this time,” he began cautiously.“What do you mean?” Sofia narrowed her eyes. “I know Luís can be a bit difficult, but—”“Yes, the hot Spanish blood speaks louder sometimes, right?” William took a deep breath. “Luís assaulted Felipe. Daryl rushed to the hospital.”Sofia reacted with her mouth open, holding her breath.Then she composed herself. “How could he do such a thing?”“Do you want to hear my guess?” William asked with a sly smile.“No! It can’t be because of Suzy Cogo!” Sofia ran her hands through her hair as if to pull it out.“It seems we were wrong to have accepted her partnership, huh?” William shook his head.“If she starts to tarnish Vaztrans’ reputation...” Sofia paced around the office. “First, her statement: her reluctance to raise the salary of the employees here. Now, this love triangle that I thought was over...”“Everaldo warned us to be careful with her,”
Chapter 3229 Despair at the General Hospital
At Vaztrans, William and Daryl were discussing the repercussions of Suzy’s article in Maggiezine.“People are accepting Suzy’s apologies and explanations,” William broke the silence, holding a copy.Daryl pursed his lips. “Whatever. Sometimes I think João Paulo is lurking, ready to pounce on anything to throw us into confusion.”“But the salary bonus we promised will be paid, right?” William smirked.“Of course, what choice do we have?” Daryl pointed to the magazine. “She made it clear in the interview. We’re not going to contradict her, are we?”William laughed ironically. “It seems Suzy is going to be the kind of person who does anything to get out of trouble, even if it means contradicting herself.”Daryl’s cell phone rang, and he answered, seeing it was Diane. “My dear is calling. Hello, Di?”Diane was at the hospital entrance, trying to be strong. “Hello, Daryl. We need you at the hospital.”“What happened?” Daryl’s eyes widened.“Luís Vasquez beat our son to a pulp, as they say,
Chapter 3228 Sarah Shouldn’t Have Let Her In
At the General Hospital, Diane was causing a scene in the hallway while Felipe was being treated in one of the rooms. “What is happening? Someone please give me answers!!” Matthew approached the desperate woman. “Mrs. Mountain, we ask for your calm. Your son is not in life-threatening condition.” “He should never have been in this situation to begin with!” Diane shouted. Eugenio approached. “Mrs. Mountain, we’re very sorry. I tried to call Suzy, but she is at an appointment with Cardozo Perfumes.” “Why is she at my brother-in-law’s company? More investments?” Diane was taken aback. “Perhaps,” Eugenio narrowed his eyes. “She didn’t tell me exactly what she intended to do.” “Oh, this situation is killing me. Doctor, how is he?” “He is sleeping under the effect of sedatives. We are waiting for a room to become available to conduct some tests to understand why he isn’t waking up,” Matthew informed her. “Well, if my boy isn’t going to wake up for now, I need to reach my husband.
Chapter 3227 Business First, Boyfriend Later
At the Rocha Hotel, Luís couldn’t stand being called “Spanish Stallion” for the umpteenth time and gave Felipe the biggest beating he had ever received in his life. However, Eugenio was not in favor of violence and quickly called using his desk phone. “Security, there’s a fight happening in my office!” Eugenio’s euphoric voice jolted Luís out of his trance. When he came to, Felipe was unconscious, with a bleeding nose and cuts on his face. “LUÍS, look what you’ve done!” Eugenio panicked. “How am I going to defend you from this?” “I couldn’t control myself, Eugenio! You know how much I hate that nickname!” Luís shouted passionately. “It doesn’t matter! If you can’t keep your self-control, you’re going to get into serious trouble like right now!” Eugenio pushed Luís away from Felipe as he spoke. He knelt down and checked Felipe’s vital signs by holding his wrist. “At least he’s STILL alive,” Eugenio said sarcastically. The security team arrived in record time. “Here we are, ma
Chapter 3226 The Nickname as a Trigger
At Crystal Blue, the restaurant was still closed, but Suzy was there at the bar, having a drink in celebration. Diane was the one who prepared two shots, both toasting. “A toast to success and personal fulfillment, my future daughter-in-law!” They both drank. Suzy took a deep breath. “What a relief! It’s so good to be victorious!” “It really is a wonderful feeling.” Diane nodded. “Now, do you think the annoying people will finally leave you alone?” “No, of course not! It seems the war is going to intensify even more.” Suzy replied excitedly. “And you are confident that you can fight, win?” “Of course! I have the truth on my side.” Suzy took another sip. “It all started with Sofia discussing salary increases in front of the employees.” “I feel like she did that on purpose, huh?” Diane raised her eyebrows suspiciously. “Yes, I see it that way, too, after thinking it through. What a coincidence that Sofia heated up the discussion just as I showed up warning against making too ma
