5 CHAPTER FOUR

THREE MONTHS AGO

*Somewhere in New York City*

"A steak, medium rare and a cheese ravioli with a bottle of of Cheval Blanc for table 27."

"Drinks to be refilled for table 38."

"A virgin mojito, two vodka shots and one whiskey, neat for table 101."

The Rivera, was one of the busiest restaurants in NYC. And this was Mia's second shift as a manager. Dressed smartly in white formals with her hair tightly tied into a bun, she was currently in the kitchen, trying to catch her breath. She needed this. Not just the extra shift but also the money. Which is exactly why she did not hesitate even for a second when her co-worker Tracey requested her to cover for her.

After few minutes, she was back on her feet, with a smile plastered on her face. Jerry, her boss's words were ringing at the back of her mind. I don't care if you're having a bad day, make sure that smile sticks to your face throughout the day. The only father figure in her life, Jerry loved Mia like his own daughter. But he had a business to take care of. Though he often came across as rude and insensitive to his employees, Mia knew that he was a man with a golden heart.

"Are you enjoying your evening with us, sir?"

"I'm glad you're enjoying the food, Mr. Wilkins. I'll pass on your compliments to the chef."

Two hours later, Mia changed into her usual clothes and stuffed her uniform into the locker and banged it shut. She was glad that it was a long day. She knew that she'd fall fast asleep once her head hit the pillow. But then, her phone rang and she knew she wasn't getting any sleep tonight.

"Bebita*, you coming home tonight?"

"No ma, I'll be at Tracey's. Don't wait up for me."

"Where is that bracelet of yours?"

"Why do you want it?"

"YOU UNGRATEFUL CHILD! I DO SO MUCH FOR YOU AND YOU HAVE THE AUDACITY TO TALK BACK TO ME!?"

"I didn't- ..."

"COME BACK HOME YOU BRAT. I'LL TEACH YOU SOME MANNERS."

"Great. You're drunk again. Bye ma."

"Bebita*-"

For a minute there, Mia had almost believed that it was her sweet and caring mother on the other end of the phone. But no. She was no longer the same after her dad left them for his high school sweetheart. Her mother not only lost her husband but also herself. She turned to alcohol to cope and became abusive. She blamed Mia for losing her husband and cursed her being born.

Mia felt pathetic for allowing herself to hope. That mother was gone. She had to accept it and move on. But why was it so hard for her to accept reality? Why would she hope for things to change? She hated herself for being so stupid.

"Isabella Mia Pérez. Care to join me for a drink?"

"Not today Jerry. I'm in a really bad mood."

"You look upset. You probably need this more than I thought."

"I'm just peachy."

"I know you're an excellent actress Mia. But I can see straight through your bullshit. Did Mamma Pérez strike again?"

"Fine. Just one drink. And we are not going to discuss anything about her. Deal?"

"Deal."

He popped open a champagne and filled her glass. Though she was puzzled that he opened a champagne for just a glass, she did not give it much thought. They sipped their drinks, just enjoying the silence around them. He sneakily pushed an envelope towards her and waited for her to open it.

"I told you to not give me any extra money. I'm working here and I'll only take as much as I work for."

"It's not-"

"No Jerry. I won't accept this. You need this."

"Mia. Stop. It's not money."

"What is it then?"

"Let's say, it's your ticket to freedom."

He winked at her as she opened the envelope, still clueless. She just read the first few lines and suddenly realized what it was all about. She screamed loudly as she jumped up and down, barely able to contain her excitement. She runs over to the other side of the table to hug Jerry and screams in his ear.

"YESSS! YESSSS!!! CAN YOU BELIEVE IT JERRY? I MADE IT!!"

"Yes my little girl. You made it."

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TRANSLATION

Bebita (SPANISH)- Baby girl.