2021-05-19 19:45:51Josias 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 come to me. I wasn't going to miss the opportunity.”
Josias smiles at it. Teodoro is not a fool to miss opportunities. He has business acumen.
“Well, let's see if the last few bucks left will make it possible for me to buy a toothbrush and towel,” Josias says as he follows Teodoro into the kitchen. Yes, on the ground floor there was a place for Teodoro to prepare his meals. In the enclosure, there’s a table with four chairs, a sink for washing, another table with cups and plates and a bottle of coffee, and a refrigerator.
Teodoro gestures to him, and Josias helps himself to coffee. Teodoro prepares bread with butter and hands it to Josias. The boy pulls out one of the chairs and sits down to eat. The feeling of eating without having brushed his teeth before is weird to him, but this is temporary.
“Further ahead there is a pharmacy.” Teodoro explains while pouring more coffee, “We don't have it here in the slum. You will have to leave here and follow the avenue.”
“I think I know where it is,” Josias responds at the same time as he chews.
Teodoro pulls out another chair and sits down. He leaves the coffee cup on the table and puts his hand in his pocket. Pulling it out, he hands Josias a few more bills.
“Here, son,” He says, in a tone that his voice is kind enough for Josias not to refuse, “take it and go further, who knows for the Downtown, for you to buy a bath towel and you know what else. Bath towels are not sold at the pharmacy. And nobody is going to hire an employee who doesn't bathe.”
Josias smiles and accepts the money, mentally promising that he will pay it back.
After having breakfast, Josias leaves Teodoro's building and starts walking to the pharmacy. It is an opportunity for him to get to know Happiness Slum as it is by day, as he had his first impression at night.
When he had his normal life, he always passed by car or bus in front of the favela. He never imagined that he would be walking inside it.
The noisy bar was closed with one of the customers sleeping on the sidewalk. The group of teenage girls who danced Olivia Newton-John was now in uniform going to school. When Josias passes in front of the house of that lady in the nightgown, she is now going out in secretary attire. And when Josias passes in front of the house of the naked man, he comes out wearing a mechanic's jumpsuit.
Everyone is going out for some activity. And Josias, going out shirtless and in sweatpants, is going where? Some residents began to notice the boy. Young man, isn't he going to study or work? Is he another thug who has come to bother the good citizens?
Upon arriving at the pharmacy, Josias promptly chooses personal hygiene items. As he searches and chooses, his gaze crosses with a brunette girl with curly hair, aged 17, in the hair products section, undecided between two brands of shampoo. She smiles when deciding on one of the bottles and keeps the other. Then she goes to the cashier to pay.
Josias finishes choosing what he wants and goes to the cashier to pay. The clerk, when summing what the girl bought and checking her money, alerts her, “Missing R$ 2.00, miss.”
The girl opens her eyes wide, checks the money. “It is not possible; I counted correctly before leaving home!” She rummages in the pockets of her shorts but finds nothing else.
Josias, seeing the girl in trouble, steps forward and stands beside her at the counter. “Excuse me, allow me to help you, miss.”
Previous Chapter
Related Chapters
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
Building My Life Chapter 13 I Do!
Josias gives Romualdo a gaze of astonishment. He had no intention of asking just in the construction site, but the opportunity came and he would not refuse. He just didn't expect to get this easy. Was Everaldo in action again?“Are you sure, sir? Here it looks like work done with care. I don't have a lot of construction experience; at most I helped as Uélton is doing.”Romualdo analyzes Josias's physical constitution from him. Because he was shirtless, it became easier. “You don't look like a fragile boy to me. You're not muscular, but I see a little strength in your arms and shoulders.”“I was never an idle person, or a sedentary person, as they say,” Josias explains, with a proud smile.“Then there is no more talk!” Romualdo sentences, “If you really want to, come tomorrow to start. And what you don't know how to do, we'll teach you. What do you say?”What to say? Of course, Josia
Building My Life Chapter 14 Clueless Guy
The next day, he gets up in fright, because with the lack of a clock he has no idea of the time. Josias goes to the balcony, pays no attention to the girl in the other building, and only analyzes the traffic on the streets. People are going to work and children are going to school. Well, it means that it is not yet eight o'clock.Josias wears his underwear, determining that the first thing to do with the first payment will be to buy a pack of underwear and boxer shorts to stop sleeping naked. After he pulls on his sweatpants; he picks up the brush and toothpaste and runs down to the bathroom.When he is walking down the hall, a girl a few years older than him appears and intercepts him. She is a dark blonde and has a bath towel and shampoo in her hands, apparently a novice in the building.“Excuse me, friend.” She asks Josias, “I'm new here; do you know where the bathroom is?”“At the end of the hallway,” Josias said,
Building My Life Chapter 15 The Future King
After insulted by the guy who insinuated Josias to be a homosexual, he strides out of the bathroom, slamming the door shut, and frowns at the lobby, forgetting to brush his teeth.Teodoro is sweeping the floor excitedly to The Manhattans’ “Shining Star”, pretending that the broom was his dance partner. Josias for a few seconds forgets his anger and laughs at the scene. When Teodoro notices the boy, he disguises and returns to sweep normally.“We just work, work... We get to have some fun, too.” He speaks in an apologetic tone, “How can I help you, Josias?”“Seu Teodoro, can you at least put a sign in the men's room telling the men to close the door? Or rather, can you manage to separate the showers by a box?”Teodoro stops sweeping, he’s looking questioningly at Josias. How many demands!“What do you owe so many requests to, Josias?”Josias gulps; he fears he has overdon
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
