A Millionaire Pretends to Be Poor to Find a Mother for His Son…
Come on, Mateo, you’re late. Sebastián Montemayor is running through the halls of the mansion looking for old clothes. Mateo, eight years old, seems to be carrying a torn polo shirt. Papa, does he really work? Of course, Mijo. Today, we’ll find out who has a real heart. But why can’t we wear normal clothes? Because when people see us well-dressed, they act differently.

Today, we’ll see who really helps. Sebastian picks up dirt from the garden and gets dirty. Mateo laughs as his father fixes their hair. Hey, now yes. No one will recognize us. They take the simplest car from the garage and go to the Zócalo. Sebastian chooses a small corner on the sidewalk near the subway exit.

Do you still remember the plan? We’re so hungry and we have nowhere to sleep. The first people passed by. A woman in high heels was looking in the other direction. A man in a suit was tossing coins at them incessantly. An hour passed. Mateo was getting discouraged. “Dad, people are bad. No, my son, everyone is just in a hurry, but we are going to find something special. Another hour passed
A few people threw coins at them without looking, others pretended not to see them. Mateo was already sad when a woman stood in front of them. She was young, in her mid-twenties, wearing a blue cleaning uniform and tennis shoes. Her face was very tired, but her eyes were soft.

Are they hungry? Matthew was shocked. She was the first person to actually stop talking. The woman bent down until she was above the two of them, not caring that her pants were dirty on the floor. Wait a minute. She opened an empty bag and counted the crumpled coins and bills.

I only have 280 pesos for the next two days. But she looked at Mateo with love. Children cannot be left hungry. Mateo whispered in his father’s ear. She’s just like my mother in heaven. Sebastian frowned. This woman just gave all her money to strangers. Thank you very much, Miss. What’s your name? Pag-asa. Esperanza Hernández.

How are you? I’m Roberto and this is Mateo. Esperanza smiled at the young man. Hello, Mateo. How old are you? Eight, Aunt Hope. Oh, what a polite boy. There’s a bakery over there on that corner. Buy Matthew something to eat. Yes. He stood up and adjusted his bag. “Miss, aren’t you eating lunch?” Esperanza shrugged. Oh, I’m managing as best I can.

The important thing is that the child doesn’t go hungry. I have to get back to work, or my boss will kill me. But when I leave at six o’clock at night, I’ll come back here to see if they need anything else. Sebastian couldn’t believe it. Not only did he give them all his money, but he promised to give it back. Thank you very much, Mrs. Esperanza. You’re an angel. Oh, not at all.

I just did what anyone else would do. You help people who can, right? Esperanza entered the commercial building and waved goodbye. Sebastián pulled Mateo over. Come on, we need to change quickly. The clean clothes were being put in the car. Within 5 minutes they were back to normal, without a hint of dirt. We were going to where he worked. I wanted to see what kind of person he was when he wasn’t helping beggars.

At the door, Sebastian asked where the cleaning company was. On the third floor, but now they were working. Plus quick information. Upstairs they saw Esperanza talking to a large and very serious guard. Don Aurelio, don’t leave them alone. They are a father with his little son. It’s difficult. The child is just a little boy
“You know that, that’s the administration’s order. The beggars are scaring the customers. I know, I know, but when I get out I’ll help you find somewhere to sleep, just don’t throw them out right away. And if the administrator sees them, I’ll lose my job. I’m responsible. If anyone complains, I’ll tell them I asked them to leave them alone.” Sebastian and Matthew were listening, hidden behind a pillar.

You gave them money, right? Yes. All the money for my lunch for the next two days. But what’s he going to do? He looks like he hasn’t eaten in a while. Hope, you’re too good. You barely have any money even for yourself. If you can’t help when you can, who will?” The guard sighed. It’s okay.

I let them stay until you leave, but if anyone complains, I’ll take care of it. Thank you, Don Aurelio. You have such a kind heart. Esperanza went back to work pushing a cleaning cart. Sebastián watched him work, carefully cleaning each table, arranging everything with great respect. Mateo touched his father’s shoulder. Dad, are you crying? Sebastian put his hand in his eyes.

We had found the person we were looking for, Mijo. Around 6:00 pm, Esperanza got off the elevator. She was more tired in her sweaty uniform and her feet hurt. Despite this, she still stopped studying. Don Aurelio, are you still there? Yes, they are. The father was grateful. They had already bought food for the child. That’s nice.

I’ll stop by before I go home. Esperanza went out and looked for Sebastián and Mateo. She hadn’t found them in the morning and was worried. Sebastian made a quick decision. Matthew, come on.. let’s talk to him. Strategy. Esperanza turned away in surprise. Hey, what’s the difference.

They were clean in nice clothes. Did they manage to take a shower somewhere? Yes. An acquaintance is giving us his shower. Sebastian is lying, feeling terrible. That’s good. Have you bought Mateo food yet? We did. The child is eating well. Mateo seems confused by all the lies, but he remains silent. It gives me great satisfaction. Now they have a place to sleep. We’re still half lost.

I’m from Guadalajara. I’m here to look for a job. My name is Roberto Silva. I’m a salesman, but I’ve been unemployed for a few months. Esperanza shakes her head. It’s very difficult. Especially with a child. Do they have somewhere to stay now? The simple truth is no. We’re thinking about finding a place in a hostel.

Look, I don’t have much space in my house, but there’s a sofa in the living room. If you want, you can stay there for now. Tomorrow we’ll see how we can do it. Sebastian is stunned. This woman is offering her own house to strangers. Are you sure? We don’t want to bother everyone.

You help those you can and Mateo is so kind, he won’t be a bother to him. Mateo smiled. Aunt Hope, you are so kind. Oh, how nice. Do you like cartoons, Matthew? Yes, I like them, especially Spider-Man. What a cool one. I have a pay TV at home. You can watch while I cook a little dinner for them

Sebastián remembered the promise he had made to his wife two years ago in the hospital. A pale dove on the bed holding her hand. Sebastian, promise me something. Find a real mother for Mateo. Not a woman who wants our money, a mother of adveras. And, I swear to you that it will be worth it :). The memory passed quickly. Sebastián looked at Esperanza talking to Mateo about cartoons and felt that he had found what he was looking for.

Doña Esperanza, are you sure we won’t worry? I’m sure. “Don’t tell me, ma’am, I’m 26 years old. Sorry, Esperanza. That’s better. Come on. My house is far away. Let’s get in the truck.” On the way, Sebastián noticed Esperanza greeting the driver, helping an old woman, and playing with a crying child.

Esperanza’s house was small, two rooms in a neighborhood, simple, but clean and well-organized. Forgive me for being so small, but it was clean and had everything she needed. It was beautiful, Esperanza. Thank you very much for coming with us. Not at all. Sit on the sofa with Matthew. I’ll make them dinner. Sebastián looked around the house, which was unpretentious, but decorated with great love.

Plants on the windowsills, family photos, colorful pillows. Matthew said, why don’t we tell him the truth? He was so good. Sebastian didn’t know what to say. How do you explain to a child that he was proving the goodness of a people by pretending to be poor? It’s complicated, mijo, we’ll tell you, but soon it’ll be okay.

When? Sebastian doesn’t know. All he knows is that he fell in love with a woman whose real name he doesn’t even know. Three months later. Sebastián thought he got a job as a salesman and they lived in a boarding house. In fact, he spent all his days hopeless. Mateo adapted to a double life. In private school he was the youngest son of a millionaire.

Mateo had only hope, a normal child. Today was Sunday. Sebastian was at Esperanza’s house helping with the food. Roberto, move the beans and I’ll season the chicken. Sebastián moved the beans looking at hope. He turns simple ingredients into a delicious meal. Esperanza, can I ask you something? Of course.

Why did you really help us that day? Esperanza, stop fixing the chicken. Do you want a good answer or the one with adveras? that of Adeveras. Because I have overcome needs, Roberto, many needs. I know what it feels like to be hungry, to have nothing to sleep on. Tears welled up in his eyes. When I was 15 years old, my mother died. My father died when I was a baby.

I lived with an aunt who didn’t like me, I went to work and hid my salary. And how did you manage to get ahead? Working whatever came up. Cleaning, cooking, selling. I lived in a hostel until I rented this little house. No one helped you when you worked. There were people who helped me, humble people who shared the little I had.

So, when I see someone in need, I can’t pretend I didn’t know. That’s why you helped us, because I know that life can change from one day to the next. Everyone deserves a chance. Mateo ran inside. Mom, Esperanza, the cartoon. Esperanza laughed and hugged the child. So, let’s eat. Mom, hope. Sebastián repeated in surprise.

He started calling me that last week. Esperanza turned red. I told her she didn’t have to call me that, but I wanted to call her mother hope. When you marry her, she will be my Adeveras mother. Sebastián and Esperanza looked at each other not knowing what to say. Matthew, wash your hands. Esperanza said, she was still red. The child left.

Esperanza and Sebastian were left alone in the kitchen. I’m sorry, I didn’t tell her to say that. You don’t have to apologize. Sebastian came over. The truth is, I’ve been thinking about that too. Honestly, Esperanza, these three months have been the happiest of my life. You remember how wonderful it is to have a family. Sebastian was honest, even though he was lying about his identity, his feelings were true.

Me too, Roberto, you and Mateo are the ones who filled my life with joy. For the first time they kissed in the small kitchen with the smell of food in the air. After lunch they went to the rooftop of the house. Mateo was playing with carts while Sebastian and Esperanza were talking. Hope. You never wanted to leave here, to go to a better place. This is my best place.

Esperanza points to the surrounding houses. This community welcomed me when I had nothing to do. Doña Remedios lent me dishes when I changed clothes. Don Antonio entrusted me with food when I had no money. This is our family to each other. When someone passes by at work, we all help.

When someone is happy, we celebrate together. Sebastian had never thought of that. He barely knew the neighbors. You are so special, Esperanza. I am not special. I learned that you help those you can and that money is not everything in life. Sebastian felt sad. He was lying to the most honest person he had ever met.

Hope. I have something to tell you. What? Sebastian stopped. You can’t. I love you. Esperanza smiled. I love you so much, Roberto. They kissed as Mateo screamed with joy while playing. For the first time in two years, Sebastian felt complete, but in the back of his mind there was a voice whispering to him. How could he tell her the truth without losing everything? Today, Sebastian decided to tell her everything.

He couldn’t stand the lies anymore. He arranged dinner with her at a simple restaurant in town. Mateo was overjoyed because Sebastian told him that after dinner he could tell her the special secret. Esperanza arrived beautifully dressed in a dress that Sebastian had never seen before. Hey, you look beautiful. That dress is new. Yes, I bought it this week. I don’t have any money but I want to look beautiful for you today.

Sebastian’s heart beat faster. He spent money he didn’t have for her, he didn’t know he could buy her a thousand identical dresses. You’ve always looked beautiful. You don’t have to spend money. I want to spend it. You deserve it. At the restaurant Mateo was impressed. Dad, what a beautiful place. It even had waiters wearing bands. Esperanza laughed.

It was very elegant. You shouldn’t spend so much, Roberto. Sebastian took a deep breath. Esperanza, I have something very important to tell you. What happened? You’re strange. It’s about who I really am. Mateo shifted in his seat. Now you’re going to say, “Dad, Dad.” Esperanza repeated, confused.

Mateo, why did you call Roberto dad? Sebastian held her hand. Hope. My real name is not Roberto Silva, it’s Sebastián Montemayor. Sebastián Montemayor. How? I’m the owner of Constructora Montemayor. I’m a millionaire. Pag-asa. Pag-asa’s face turned pale, she took her hand off the table.

How was that? That day in the Zócalo, Mateo and I did a test. We pretended to be beggars to see who really had a good heart. Esperanza was left unable to process. They were pretending. They’ve been lying to me all this time. Esperanza, I can explain to you. She stood up with her legs shaking. You’ve been lying to me for three months. You made me look like an idiot. Not like that. Mateo got up, scared.

Mom, Esperanza, don’t be angry. Matthew, do you know too? Esperanza asked in a broken voice. The young man looked at his father, not knowing what to answer. Pag-asa, sit down. Let me explain. Explain what? That you played with me, that you made me your experiment. I didn’t play with you, I fell in love.

How can you talk about love? You don’t know me. Do you know any fools who believed your lies? People were starting to look around. Esperanza realized and felt even more ashamed. I gave you all the money I had, everything. I was so hungry for helping them and it was all just lies. I hope you don’t understand. Yes, I do.

She took the bag with tears streaming down her face. I understand that you are a rich man who enjoys playing tricks on a poor woman. Mother, Esperanza, don’t go. Mateo cried out in tears. Esperanza looked at the child and her heart broke. After a moment she hesitated, “Mateo, my love, I have to go, but you said you would be my mother forever.

I’m sorry, my love. I’m sorry.” She ran away and left Sebastian and Matthew at the table. The child was crying loudly. Sebastian quickly paid and went out with Mateo. He was looking for hope, but he was lost in the crowd. Dad, why did Mama Esperanza leave? Because Daddy did something very bad, my child. At home, Rodolfo Montemayor was waiting in the living room, when he saw Sebastián enter with Mateo crying.

What happened? Why is the child crying? You don’t need to know. Sebastian, I am your father. I have the right to know. Mateo stopped crying. Grandpa. Mama Esperanza is gone. She found out Papa lied to her. Mama Esperanza, who is that? Sebastian sighed. A woman I know. A special woman.

What kind of woman? A cleaning lady. A cleaning lady I love. Rodolfo’s face flushed. You were dating a maid and I’m not with her anymore, she broke up with me. Rodolfo smiled coldly. It’s good that the clownishness is over. Dad, don’t talk like that. Sebastian, you’re the heir to an empire.
You can’t go around playing Romeo and Juliet with an employee. She’s not an employee. She’s the most amazing woman I’ve ever met. It’s over. It’s better that way. Sebastian took Mateo and went upstairs leaving Rodolfo alone. Rodolfo stood there thinking, “Pick up the phone. Leticia, I need you to investigate a certain Esperanza Hernández, a cleaning lady.

I want to know where she lives, where she works, everything. And I want it by tomorrow morning.” Rodolfo flashed a wicked smile. If your son doesn’t have the right to finish this story, he’ll take action. The next morning, Rodolfo was in the office when Secretary Leticia entered with a folder.

Mr. Rodolfo, here’s the information about Esperanza Hernández. Close the door and tell me everything. Leticia sat down. Esperanza Hernández, 26 years old. She works for the Limpieza Total company. She has lived in Nesaalcoyotl and the orphaned family since she was 15 years old. She has no relatives, earns minimum wage, lives austerely, but doesn’t have a lot of debt. Rodolfo shook his head, perfect for being interested.
He must have seen Sebastian and thought, “Here’s my luck.” Actually, sir, Leticia is hesitant. Everyone speaks well of her in the community, helping neighbors, taking care of other people’s children. That’s all facade, Leticia. A poor woman who approaches a rich man only wants one thing. Rodolfo approaches the window. My son is naive.

She thinks people are good, but I know how the world works. What do you want me to do? I want you to go to the company where she works. You present yourself as a housewife looking for a cleaning lady. You will give her a job. But for what? If she is far from Sebastian, she will forget about it.

And if it is close to me, I control the situation. Leticia scores. How much am I giving you? 15,000 pesos per month, more than she earns. You cannot refuse it. And if you suspect something, you are Mrs. Silvia, the wife of a businessman. Nothing unusual. Rodolfo smiled wickedly. “Don’t mention my name, this is our secret.

Meanwhile, Esperanza is at the house of Doña Remedios, her 70-year-old neighbor. Girl, what’s that face? Haven’t you slept? Esperanza’s eyes are shaking from crying. I can’t sleep, Doña Remedios. I’m still thinking about everything. Tell me carefully. You cried just yesterday. Esperanza tells the whole story.

The meeting in the zócalo, the three months of courtship, the discovery of the lie. He’s been deceiving me all this time. I feel like an idiot. But, wait, the man lied about money, but he’s also lying about feelings. How do I know if he’s lying about something? He might have lied about everything. Doña Remedios shakes her head. Esperanza, I’ve seen you for three months. You’re as happy as ever. And Matthew, he’s pretending too.

Mateo is just a child. Exactly. Children don’t know how to pretend. When I call you Mom, I’m really sorry. Esperanza wiped her eyes. But how can you trust someone who started all this with lies? I’m not telling you to forgive like that, maybe things aren’t that simple. Yes, they are simple. He’s rich.

I’m poor. For him, I’m a game. There’s a knock on the door. Doña Remedios opens the door and sees a woman dressed nicely. Good afternoon. The woman knows Esperanza Hernández. It’s me. Esperanza gets up. Do you need anything? That’s great. I’m Silvia. I’m looking for a cleaning lady to work in my house. She was recommended to me. Who recommended me? Leticia improvised.

Mrs. Marcia, who works in the building where you clean. Ah, yes. Esperanza doesn’t remember, but she didn’t ask. The work is Monday through Friday, eight hours a day. I pay 15,000 pesos a month. Esperanza opens her eyes. 15,000. That’s right. This house is big, but I travel a lot. Most of the time she’s left alone. Doña Remedios elbows Esperanza. Woman, 15,000 pesos.

Esperanza is in dire need of money. She lost her job because she’s gone too far with Sebastián. You need references. No, Ms. Marcia said good things about you. It can start tomorrow. Esperanza hesitates, but the need is overwhelming. Yes, I can. Leticia gives her the address in Polanco at eight o’clock at night. Ask Mr. Gilberto.

After Leticia leaves, Doña Remedio celebrates. 15,000 pesos of hope. This is more than double. This is strange. Why would someone I don’t even know pay so much? Stop being suspicious. You deserve this chance. For the first time, Esperanza smiled. She was right. I’ll take advantage of it. Meanwhile, Sebastian was in the room with Matthew.

The boy didn’t stop asking about Mama Esperanza. Dad, won’t you take that? It’s not that easy, son. Mama Esperanza is very angry with me, but you can apologize to her. I tried yesterday, remember? She didn’t want to listen to me. Matthew just kept quiet, “Dad, why did you lie to her?” Sebastian sighed because he wanted to make sure that he really loved us, not because of money. He helped us when he thought we were poor.

That didn’t prove that it was good. Gabby was shocked by what her son had done. Yes, he was proving it. So why don’t you take her and tell her that you’re stupid? Mateo, Dad, if you don’t find Mom’s hope, I’ll be sad forever. Sebastian hugged his son. It’s okay. I’ll think about how to talk to him.

Promise? Promise. But Sebastian didn’t know how he was going to keep it. The next morning, Esperanza arrived at Polanco’s mansion at 8 a.m. It was huge, with gardens and an electric gate. The guard called inside. The new cleaning lady arrived. Entered the service door

A 50-year-old man, neatly dressed and with a straight face, welcomed her. Are you hopeful? Yes, sir. I’m Mr. Gilberto. I’ll explain the rules. Esperanza doesn’t realize it, but Rodolfo Montemayor is the one in disguise. He’s changed his haircut and is wearing different glasses. First, we’re serious here. No slacking. Yes, sir. Second, I’m very demanding.

If I tell him to do something three times, he does it without complaining. Esperanza’s tone is strange, but he needs the job. Third, he doesn’t talk to other employees. We work here in silence. Understand? Rodolfo showed her the house. 12 bedrooms, eight bathrooms, three living rooms, bigger than any place he’s ever worked. He’ll start in the dining room.

I want everything to shine. Esperanza grabs the materials and begins. She cleans the coffee table, wipes down every chair, arranges the glasses. An hour later, Rodolfo returns. What kind of bad cleaning is this? Look, here’s a small stain. Hope. Look, this is a microscopic mark. Excuse me, Mr. Gilberto, I’m going to clean again.

Do it right the first time. Do it all over again. Esperanza cleans again. Another hour of work. Rodolfo returns and finds another defect. The chairs are not aligned and there is dust on the lamp. But I cleaned the lamp. This is contradicting me. No, sir, I’m sorry. Esperanza is cleaning for the third time. Her back is already hurting and it’s only 10 in the morning.

At lunchtime, Rodolfo tells her to eat in the service area. The employees’ food is in the refrigerator. 15 minutes. Esperanza opens it and finds only a simple sandwich and juice. She eats quickly and goes back to work. In the afternoon, Rodolfo invents another disgrace. Esperanza, I dropped a plate in the kitchen. Clean it.

In the kitchen, there’s food all over the floor. You obviously threw it on purpose. Clean it up. I don’t want a little friend. Esperanza bends down and cleans everything. Rodolfo stares at her sternly. People like you were born to serve people like us. No. Esperanza stops and looks at you. Don’t give in. Keep cleaning. In the truck on the way home, Esperanza talks to Doña Remedios.

How was your first day? It was tough. The boss is very demanding, but that’s okay, right? For the salary it’s worth putting up with. Yes, I think, but Esperanza has a bad feeling. On the second day, Rodolfo steps up the chase. The suite’s bathroom is a pig. Go and make it shine. Esperanza goes upstairs. The bathroom is clean, but it does the job.

When he’s finished, Rodolfo appears with dirty shoes and steps on the wet floor. Look at the pig. Do it again. But you just made it dirty. You accuse me of taking a deep breath Esperanza. No, sir, I’ll clean. The third day is getting worse. Now I want to wash all the windows inside and out. That’s over 50 windows. Esperanza works under the strong sun.

In the middle of the afternoon, Rodolfo threw dirty water on the clean window. Oops! What a sight! He has to wash it again. Esperanza looked at him with tears in her eyes, but said nothing. What’s the problem? People in his class can’t complain about honest work. Esperanza frowned, but she kept going. She needed the job.

Rodolfo said, “Within a week he’ll be so broken that he won’t even remember my son.” At the end of the day, Esperanza went home feeling sad. Girl, what happened to you? You’re horrible. Doña Remedios, that man is not normal. He’s been humiliating me all day. All rich bosses are weird, you have to put up with it. Not only is it weird, it seems like he wants to see me suffer. Esperanza doesn’t know she’s right

A week later, Esperanza was cleaning the room when she saw a picture on the table. It was of a toddler, about 5 years old with Chinese hair. She picked up the picture and her heart stopped. It was Mateo. She found something interesting. Esperanza turned around. Rodolfo was at the door with a wicked smile. I know this boy. He knows this.

Rodolfo entered the room. Interesting. Where did you meet my grandson? His grandson. Esperanza felt her legs flex. You are Rodolfo Montemayor, Sebastián’s father. It’s nice to meet you officially. Esperanza put down the picture. Do you know who I am? Of course she does.

She thought it was just a coincidence, but why? Because I wanted her to know her place in the world. It was scary that Rodolfo came near. My son is already excited about you, but I know what you are. An opportunist who saw a rich man and thought he won the lottery. It’s not true, is it? So why did she agree to work here for 15,000? Why didn’t she say no when I offered her more than she was worth? Esperanza still didn’t answer. That’s what I thought. You’re just like everyone else. Just think about the money.

You don’t know me. I know her type. My son is naive, but I know how the world works. The front door opened. Sebastian shouted, “Dad, I need to talk to you about hope.” Sebastian stood in the middle of the room, startled. Esperanza, what are you doing here? Working for his father.

Where else could a woman clean? Hope’s voice was full of pain. Son Rodolfo had said, theatrically, this is hope, a very good employee, very dedicated. Sebastian looked at his father and Esperanza. Dad, did you know it was her? Of course. And I hired her exactly for that.

How? Because I want to show both of us what her position is in our family. Esperanza took the bucket and the rag. If you’ll let me, I have to finish my work. Pag-asa. Wait a minute. Sebastian tried to speak. We have nothing more to talk about, Boss. You told me everything yesterday at the restaurant, but I can explain it to you. Explain what? That she took me to her father’s house to embarrass me even more, to show that I’m just an employee. I didn’t know you worked here. I don’t know.

Esperanza laughed bitterly. Of course not, because a millionaire would worry about a poor cleaning lady. Rodolfo was pleased. Pag-asa. Sebastian tried to come closer. Listen. No. Esperanza walked away. I’ve heard a lot. I’ve heard lies for three months, but there are no ifs and buts. Now I know where I am. Her father made it clear to me.

Esperanza went to the kitchen. Sebastian followed her. My father doesn’t represent what I think. No. Why didn’t he just say it when he said my duty was to serve you? Sebastian was left speechless. That was what I thought. Esperanza shook her head. You’re both. We’re not equals. Yes, they are.

The only difference was that her father, at least, was honest in his disdain. Esperanza grabbed her things and headed for the door. Where are you going? I’m leaving. I won’t stay embarrassed by you. And work. Esperanza stopped and looked at Sebastian. Stay at work. I may be poor, but I still have dignity. She went out and closed the door.

Sebastian stayed in the living room with her father. Rodolfo said, “I told you I just wanted money. At the first difficulty he left. You did it on purpose. Yes, I did it and I will do it again. Now you have seen his true character.” Sebastian looked at his father with disgust. The only character I saw was you humiliating a working woman.

Sebastian, I don’t want to talk anymore. Sebastián left, leaving Rodolfo alone, but satisfied. Esperanza would never hear from her daughter again. In the days that followed, Rodolfo began the second part of the plan. He knew that Sebastian still loved Esperanza and that he could try to win her back. He had to plant poison on both sides

Nagtungo si Rodolfo sa Nesahualcoyotl, iniwan ang marangyang kotse sa malayo at naglakad papunta sa bahay ni Esperanza. Esperanza, ako si Rodolfo Montemayor. Binuksan ni Esperanza ang pinto na may pangit na mukha. Ano ang gusto mo dito? Gusto kong makipag-usap. Pwede ba akong pumasok? Maaari siyang magsalita doon. Lumapit ako sa kanya para sabihin sa kanya ang isang bagay na mahalaga. Tumawid si Esperanza sa kanyang mga braso. Ano? Ang aking anak na lalaki ay kasintahan ni Fernanda Aranda. Ikakasal sila sa Disyembre.

Nakaramdam si Esperanza ng saksak sa dibdib, ngunit hindi niya ito ipinakita. At ano ang kinalaman nito sa akin? Wala. Naisip ko lang na dapat kong malaman para hindi siya umasa. Kinuha ni Rodolfo ang kanyang cellphone at ipinakita sa kanya ang mga larawan. Ang mga ito ay mga larawan ni Sebastián kasama ang isang magandang babae sa mga social event. Ang mga larawang ito ay mula kagabi.

Sabay silang nagtungo sa opening ng isang restaurant. Tiningnan ni Esperanza ang mga larawan. Nakangiti si Sebastian sa tabi ng babae. Mukhang komportable sila. Tulad ng sinabi ko sa kanya, para lang hindi siya umasa. Hindi ako umaasa sa anumang bagay. “Okay lang, naiintindihan naman natin ang isa’t isa. Nag-iwan ng pag-asa si Rodolfo. Hindi niya alam na ang mga larawan ay dalawang taon na ang nakararaan bago niya ito nakilala.

Sa araw ding iyon, hinanap ni Rodolfo si Sebastián sa kompanya. Anak, gusto kong ikuwento sa iyo ang tungkol sa babaeng naglilinis na iyon. Ayokong pag-usapan ang tungkol sa pag-asa. Ngunit kailangan mong malaman ang isang bagay. Sabi niya sa kanya, boyfriend at girlfriend ka na. Itinaas ni Sebastian ang kanyang mga mata. Ano ang sinasabi niya na ipinangako mo sa kanya na pakakasalan mo siya? Ginagamit niya ang iyong pangalan upang makuha ang mga bagay-bagay.

Anong uri ng mga bagay? Mga pautang. Pinagkakatiwalaan sa merkado. Nakakatanggap ako ng mga tawag mula sa mga taong nangongolekta ng kanilang mga utang. Nakasimangot si Sebastian. Sa palagay ko hindi niya gagawin iyon. Sebastian, ikaw ay walang muwang. Nakita niya ang pagkakataon at sinasamantala niya ito. Ipinakita sa kanya ni Rodolfo ang mga papeles. Tingnan dito, tatlong pautang sa iyong pangalan. Hinawakan niya ang iyong pirma. Peke ang mga papeles, pero hindi ito alam ni Sebastian.

Sinabi niya na ikakasal na sila at magbabayad ka mamaya. Kinuha ni Sebastian ang mga papeles, hindi makapaniwala. Hindi ako makapaniwala, kaya maniwala ka. At may higit pa. Sinasabi niya sa mga kapitbahay na ikaw ang ama ng anak na inaasahan niya. Sinong bata ang nagdadalang-tao, Sebastian? Sabi niya, ikaw ang tatay. Namutla si Sebastian. Buntis.

Oo, ngunit huwag mag-alala. Tumawag sila para mag-imbestiga. Ang tatay ay isang lalaking nakasama ko bago kita nakilala. Nabigla si Sebastian. Naiintindihan mo kung bakit ayaw niyang magalit ka sa kanya. Ang mga taong tulad nito ay nagdudulot lamang ng mga problema. Hindi ako makapaniwala. Sabi nga ni Sarah, nag-aabang ka na lang sa kanya. Ngayon ito ay ginagamit upang makakuha ng sumulong. Nalilito si Sebastian.

Sa isang banda, ayaw niyang maniwala. Sa kabilang banda, ang ebidensya ay tila kapani-paniwala. Ano ang dapat kong gawin? Wala. Huwag pansinin ito nang lubusan. Hindi nagtagal ay pagod na siya at maghahanap ng isa pang hangal. Samantala, si Esperanza ay nasa bahay ni Doña Remedios. Ipinakita niya sa akin ang mga larawan ni Sebastian kasama ang isang magandang babae. Ikakasal sila sa Disyembre. Naku, girl, nakakalungkot. Alam ko na ito, Doña Remedios.

Ang mga mayayamang lalaki ay hindi nag-aasawa ng mga babaeng naglilinis, ngunit sinabi mo na mahal ka niya. Pag-ibig. Tumawa nang mapait si Esperanza. Nakikipaglaro lang siya sa akin. Ngayon ay bumalik na siya sa realidad. Paano kung kausapin mo siya para ipaliwanag ang iyong panig? Wala nang maipaliwanag. Nagsinungaling siya. Nalaman ko. Tapos na. Pinunasan ni Esperanza ang kanyang mga mata. Mas maganda sa ganoong paraan. Hinding-hindi ako makakapasok sa mundo niya.

Huwag sabihin iyon. Ito ang katotohanan. Ako ay isang babaeng naglilinis. Isa siyang milyonaryo. Hindi ito umiiral sa totoong mundo. Hindi alam ni Esperanza na nagdurusa si Sebastian tulad niya at ang lahat ng impormasyon ay kasinungalingan ni Rodolfo. Ang plano ng kontrabida ay gumagana nang perpekto. Makalipas ang dalawang linggo, napagtanto ni Rodolfo na hindi pa kumpleto ang plano.

Nalulungkot pa rin si Sebastian. Humingi ng pag-asa sa mga empleyado. Hindi tumigil sa pag-iyak si Mateo sa paghingi ng pag-asa ni Inay. Kailangan kong ihatid ang huling suntok. isipin ang isang bagay na talagang magpapahamak sa kanya ni Sebastian. Tinawagan niya si Leticia. Kailangan ko ng isa pang pabor. Ano ba ‘yan, Panginoon? Sana hanapin mo ulit si Esperanza.

Gumawa ng anumang kuwento at dalhin ito dito. Hindi niya nais na bumalik. Oo, gugustuhin niya. Mag-alok sa kanya ng $ 25,000 upang gawin ang paglilinis sa katapusan ng linggo. Hindi maitatanggi ang isang kaawa-awang babae. Noong Sabado, tumunog si Leticia sa doorbell ng bahay ni Esperanza. Pag-asa. Ako nga pala si Silvia, naaalala mo pa ba? Nagkahina-hinala na nagbukas si Esperanza. Ano ang gusto mo? May proposal po ako. Trabaho sa katapusan ng linggo. 25,000 para sa dalawang araw.

Binuksan ni Esperanza ang kanyang mga mata. 25000. Oo. May party ang asawa ko sa Lunes. Kailangan kong maging perpekto ang bahay. Nag-aatubili si Esperanza, alam niyang mapanganib ito, pero ang 25,000 ay malaking pera. Anong uri ng trabaho? Pangkalahatang paglilinis, buli ng pilak, kristal, pag-aayos ng lahat. Mabigat, ngunit mahusay na binabayaran

Make up any story and bring it here. She doesn’t want to go back. Yes, she would. Offer her $25,000 to do the cleaning over the weekend. A poor woman can’t refuse. On Saturday, Leticia rang the doorbell of Esperanza’s house. Hope. I’m Silvia, remember? Esperanza opened suspiciously. What do you want? I have a proposal. Weekend work. 25,000 for two days.

Esperanza opened her eyes. 25000. Yes. My husband has a party on Monday. I need the house to be perfect. Esperanza was hesitant, she knew it was risky, but 25,000 was a lot of money. What kind of work? General cleaning, polishing silver, crystal, fixing everything. Tough, but well paid.

Mr. Gilberto is there, right? She went on a trip, it was just you and me at home. Esperanza took a deep breath. I’m doing it. On Saturday morning, Esperanza arrived at the mansion. Leticia showed her what to do. You’ll start in the dining room, then the living room. Mr. Gilberto wanted everything to be perfect. I thought he was on a trip. He left, but left instructions.

Esperanza started working, cleaning the entire room, polishing every silver object, fixing the windows. By noon, Leticia had disappeared without warning. Esperanza was still alone. Around five in the afternoon, Rodolfo arrived in the room. He had a very expensive gold watch on his hand. I hope, it’s a good thing you came. Esperanza was tense. I thought he was on a trip. Change of plans.

I’m here to look for things. Rodolfo put his watch on the table and left. Keep working. Don’t worry about me. Esperanza finished the living room and searched the kitchen for materials. When she returned, the clock was no longer on the table. Strange, she thought. He must have taken it.

Around 6:00 pm, the hope of Rodolfo returning with Sebastián would end. Son, I’ve come to teach you something important. Sebastián entered and saw Esperanza. Esperanza, what are you doing here? Working. Mrs. Silvia hired me for a special cleaning. What is Mrs. Silvia? Rodolfo was interrupted. Sebastian, that’s not why I called you. He looked at Esperanza pretending to be worried.

Esperanza, where is the clock I left on this table? Which watch? A gold watch that I put here before I left. It’s very important. I don’t know. When I returned from the kitchen, I wasn’t here. Interesting. Rodolfo pretended to be thinking. It’s just you and me in the house. Esperanza was nervous. He was implying that I had taken it.

I didn’t doubt it, I just saw that the watch was gone. Sebastian looked at me incomprehensibly. Can I check your bag? Rodolfo asked. Of course. Check everything. Esperanza took the bag and placed it on the table. You can check it. Rodolfo opened the bag and looked at the items. He suddenly took out the gold watch. Just look what I found.

Esperanza was paralyzed. I didn’t put that there. Someone put it there. Like this. And who is it? You. You put it there. I. Rodolfo pretended to be angry. Why would I do that? Sebastián looked at the watch in his father’s hand, then at Esperanza. Esperanza, how did this watch get into your bag? I don’t know. And, I swear to you that it’s worth what you’re going to pay :). Sebastián Rodolfo said in a sad voice, I’m sorry you had to see this, but now you know who he really is

I didn’t steal. He put it all together. Sebastian looked into Hope’s eyes. For a second hesitating, but his father’s weeks of lies were taking effect. Hope, I was disappointed. I thought you were different. Sebastian, do you really think I would do this? Here’s the evidence. Esperanza felt like the world was falling apart on her. So, that’s it.

After everything we’ve been through, believe your father and not me. Hope. No, get your things. You don’t have to say anything more. I understand everything. Esperanza came to the door. Where are you going? I’m leaving and this time it’s forever. She went out and closed the door. Sebastian was still standing next to his father. Son, I know it’s hard, but it’s better for me to know now. He seemed sincere.

People like this are good at pretending. That’s why I warned you all along. Sebastian shook his head, confused and sad. Come on, let’s go. Rodolfo put his hand on his son’s shoulder. Tomorrow, I’ll buy a cellphone for Mateo. It will help you distract yourself. They left the room. Rodolfo hid Victoria’s smile. His plan was working perfectly.

Now Sebastian would never see Esperanza again in his life. Outside the mansion, Esperanza was walking down the street crying. She felt like she had lost everything, the love of her life and her trust in a world where she believed good always won. But what she didn’t know was that an eight-year-old boy was listening to everything from the stairs.

And Mateo Montemayor had recently discovered that his grandfather was a very bad person. A month after the clock trap, Esperanza was in a desperate situation. Rodolfo had spread the word throughout the city that he was a thief. No company wanted to hire him. I’m sorry, Esperanza, but I can’t give you a job. Don Ronaldo, owner of a small company, said. I got a call saying you’re a thief from the bosses.

“Father, Ronaldo, you’ve known me for years. Yes, I know you, but I can’t risk my company. Esperanza came out of there broke. This is the fifth company that has rejected her this week. At home, Doña Remedios is worried. Girl, aren’t you eating well? You’re so thin, I’m not hungry. What do you mean you don’t have one? You’ve hardly eaten these past few days.

Esperanza only gets a loose cleaning job for 100, 150 pesos. She barely has enough to buy food. Doña Remedios, I think I have to go back to the village. How? I can’t find a job here. I have to leave. “Girl, your life is here. What a life! No one is giving me a job. I need. Esperanza feels a sharp pain in her stomach and feels dizzy

Doña Remedios ran to support her. Esperanza, what happened to you? I’m a little dizzy. Maybe it’s because of hunger. Doña Remedios made tea, but the dizziness wouldn’t go away. Esperanza passed out on the sofa. Help, someone help me! The neighbors are hoping for help at the health center.

Doña Esperanza, when was your last period? The doctor asked. It was about two months ago, Doctor. But it must be stress. I’m going to ask for a blood test. Given her symptoms, the woman could be pregnant. An hour later, the results confirmed it. Esperanza is one month pregnant. Doc, are you sure? Congratulations. Esperanza doesn’t know whether to cry with joy or despair. She’s pregnant with Sebastián, but she doesn’t even want to see him.

Doc, what if I’m not worthy of raising this child? The girl needs to eat well. Your baby needs nutrients. But I don’t have money. IMS covers prenatal care. But the diet must be improved immediately. Esperanza went home with the test in hand.

What did the doctor say? I am pregnant, Mrs. Remedios. Pregnant with Sebastián. It can only be his. Doña Remedios hugged Esperanza. What a joy. I am going to be a step-grandmother. Doña Remedios, how can I raise a child like that? I hardly need to eat. We have done it, girl. We have always managed, but now it is different.

She is an innocent child. Esperanza looked at the test. How do I tell Sebastian, “He hates me? A child is a child with hope. He has the right to know. He has nothing. He thought I invented it to make money. Esperanza is continuing the exam. No one will know this, not for now. Meanwhile, Sebastian is in the room with Matthew.

The young man has a new cellphone, but he is still sad. Dad, why isn’t Mama Esperanza coming anymore Son, we’ve talked about it. Mama Esperanza is not coming back. But why is this so great? It’s complicated, Mateo. Sometimes people are not what they seem, but I’m sure she’s good. Mateo, dad, I’ll talk to you on my cellphone. No, Sebastian speaks louder.

You can’t talk to her. Mateo is scared. Sorry, mijo, I didn’t mean to yell at you, but it’s better to just forget Mama Esperanza. I won’t forget. Mateo took the cellphone and ran out into the hallway, and ran into his grandfather. Where are you running to? I’m sad, Grandpa. Why? For Mama Esperanza. Daddy said she’s not coming back. Rodolfo bowed. It’s even better that way, Matthew. She’s useless.

How? She’s a bad person. She tried to steal from us. Mateo frowned. I don’t think so. She’s always been nice to me. There are times when people pretend to be nice, son. That’s not true. Mateo ran angrily to his room, turned on his cellphone and started playing. Know that it can record conversations. “Son, I’m the one who sang.”

She recorded several things. Your own voice, noises from the house, conversations from employees. Mateo didn’t know it, but he had just discovered a powerful weapon against his grandfather. Two weeks later, Esperanza was two months pregnant. She worked hiding her belly, but she was always in pain.

Now she was cleaning the house of Doña Soledad, a kind woman. Hope, are you okay? You look strange. Yes, I’m fine, Doña Soledad, just tired. Would you like a glass of water? Something to eat? You don’t need to. In the middle of cleaning, Esperanza felt very dizzy and ran to the bathroom. Doña Soledad was behind her. Girl, what happened to you? Maybe I ate something. Esperanza, can I ask? Yes.

Are you pregnant? Esperanza was skeptical. Doña Soledad has always been kind to her. Yes, I’ve been here for two months. What a joy. And the father, he doesn’t know and he won’t know. How? Why? It’s complicated, Mrs. Soledad, we’re fighting. He doesn’t want to see me anymore, but the son is a son. In this case, he won’t think taking money is a lie. Doña Soledad is worried.

Esperanza, is your food delicious? I’m trying. There’s nothing to deal with. You’re so thin. Come to the kitchen. Doña Soledad, prepare a plate of food. Eat everything and take this tapper home. You don’t have to. Yes, it is necessary. This is where you eat lunch every time you come to work. Esperanza was very happy. Thank you very much. You are welcome. Women need to help each other

Meanwhile, Mateo is in the garden when he hears his grandfather talking on the phone. Rodolfo is on the terrace and believes that no one is listening to him. Ricardo, it’s me. Yes, about that cleaning lady. They can’t give her a job anyway because she steals, so it’s not gossip. I saw it with my own eyes.

Mateo is hiding behind a tree. Tell everyone. That woman can’t find a job anywhere. She tried to take advantage of my daughter. Exactly. Interested. Mateo is shocked. His grandfather is talking badly about Mama Esperanza. If anyone asks, tell them that she stole the watch here. It’s not a lie. Well, it’s not a complete lie. Mateo takes out his cellphone and starts recording.

The important thing is that he is far from Sebastian. I can’t let my daughter hang out with people like that. I have to protect my family from that benefit. Mateo records everything. He doesn’t fully understand, but he knows that his grandfather is being unfair. When Rodolfo hung up, Mateo ran to his room.

I was going to show my father this recording. But when he looked for his father, he found him talking to Rodolfo in the living room. Sarah, stop worrying about that woman. Dad, I love her. You love lies. I just want your money. However, it’s hard to forget. Forget it. Fernanda is interested in getting to know you. Mateo stood in the doorway and listened. He decided not to show the recording yet.

He wanted to understand better. I didn’t want to meet Fernanda or anyone else. “Sir, you have responsibilities. You can’t suffer for a cleaning lady. She’s not just a cleaning lady. She’s, what? An interested party. Mateo tapped his cellphone. He was also recording this conversation. Dad, sometimes I think you’re too proud. Maybe Esperanza didn’t steal.

What do you mean? I took the watch out of her bag. Yes, but it seems strange to me. Strange. Are you doubting me? No, that’s not it. I’m your father, I just want the best for you.” Mateo recorded everything and left quietly. In his room he listened to the recordings again.

Grandpa is lying to my father and spreading lies about Mama Esperanza. Mateo didn’t know what to do. This is just a child against a powerful old man. But he knows one thing, Mother Hope is good and she doesn’t deserve it. I’ll find out more and prove that Grandpa is a liar. Mateo removed his cellphone. Their secret mission began. Two months later.

Mateo was getting sadder. He wasn’t eating properly, he wasn’t playing. He was spending all his time in his room. Sebastian was worried. Matthew, what was wrong with you? You were strange. Nothing, Dad. How could you not? You barely left your room this week. I was playing with my cellphone. But, my dear, children need to play something else, run, play soccer.

I don’t feel it. Sebastian sat on the bed. Mateo, are you still thinking about Mama Esperanza? Mateo looked at him with sad eyes. I always think about her. “Son, we’ve talked about that. Dad, what if he didn’t steal? What? What if Grandpa made a mistake?” Sebastian was shocked.

Why are you saying that? I don’t know, I’m just asking. Your grandpa saw the watch in his bag. But what if someone put it there? Son, who would do that? Mateo almost spoke, but he stopped. It wasn’t the time yet. I don’t know, I was just thinking. Sebastian hugged his son. I know you love him. I do too, but sometimes people put us under pressure.

Dad, do you still love him? Sebastián hesitated. It’s complicated. Do you love him or don’t you love him? Mateo, tell the truth. Sebastian sighed. Yes, I love him, even though I know he’s cheating on me. Mateo was being encouraged. So why don’t you do it? Because I can’t do it anymore, son. A lot has happened, but if you love each other, he won’t love me anymore. After all, Mateo hugged his father

Dad, I’m sure Mama Esperanza still loves us. The next week, Mateo started getting sick. You coughed a lot, you had a high fever, you couldn’t breathe properly. Sebastian took him to the doctor. Doctor, my son has a bad cough. The doctor looked at Matthew. It was pneumonia. He had to stay in the hospital. Boarding school. Yes.

Mateo’s lungs were compromised in the hospital which got worse. The fever wasn’t coming down. Raves. Mama Esperanza, where is Mama Esperanza? Sebastian stayed by the bed. My son is here, Papa is here. I want Mama Hope. She sang to me. Matthew, she can’t come. Why doesn’t she love me anymore? Sebastian didn’t know what to say. He saw his son disappear. Doc, are you feeling better? We’re doing everything we can, but it’s very down. Sometimes children respond better when the person they’re looking for is there.

How do you ask for hope for a mother? Is it possible to bring it? Sebastian was left behind in the battle. It’s complicated, Mr. Sebastián. Your son could be in danger. If someone could give him strength, Sebastian left desperately. He called his father. Dad, Mateo is really bad. Just ask for hope.

And you’re thinking about calling him. I don’t know what to do. The doctor said you could die. Sebastian, don’t do that. But what about Mateo? Mateo will be fine, Dad. What if this isn’t right? Will I forgive myself? Rodolfo is nervous. If Sebastián calls for hope, the plan will be lost. Son, you’re desperate. You’re not thinking straight. Maybe it’s time to think with your heart.

Sebastian turned around, he was standing in front of the hospital, he had to make a decision. Back to the room. Mateo was even worse, almost unconscious. Mama Esperanza, come back. Sebastian couldn’t take it anymore. Nurse, I have to go out. Of course, Sir, we will talk to you about anything. Sebastián went straight to Nesa Coyotl.

She was no longer arrogant, she was just afraid of losing her child. Knocked on the door. Doña Remedios answered. Sebastian. Mrs. Reynaldo, I need to speak with hope. It is urgent. She is not there. She went to work. Where? At Doña Soledad’s house in Roma Norte. Sebastian led the way and ran away. At Doña Soledad’s house. Esperanza was cleaning when the landlady shouted.

Esperanza, there is a man who wants to talk to you. Esperanza approached the door and saw Sebastian. Her heart skipped a beat. Sebastian, what are you doing here? Hope. I know you hate me, but Mateo is very sick. Matthew, what has happened to him? Severe pneumonia. He was hospitalized and he just asked for you. Esperanza turned pale. It’s okay.

The doctor said you could die. Esperanza didn’t hesitate. Take me to the hospital now. You’re going after all. I love this child more than my life. Of course I’m going. Doña Soledad appeared. Hope. B. I give you permission and I won’t deduct you from the payment. Inside the car, Esperanza asked how she got sick. I don’t know. I was sad. She stopped eating, playing. Sad.

Why, Sebastian, look at her for you. She hasn’t stopped asking about you for a day. Esperanza felt her heart racing and thought of the 4-month-old baby she was carrying in her womb. At the hospital, Esperanza ran into the room. Mateo was pale from the connected devices. Oh my God. Mateo held her warm hand.

Mateo was Mama Esperanza. I’m here, my love. Mateo slowly opened his eyes. Mama Esperanza, are you okay? Yes, I’m back, my prince, and I won’t leave until you get better. I thought you didn’t want me anymore. Esperanza held back her tears. How could you think that? I love you more than anything. Really, then, why did you leave? It’s an old man’s problem, my love, but it doesn’t matter anymore. Mateo smiled for the first time in days.

Will you stay here? I will stay. They will have to force me out. Sebastian watched from the door. In 5 minutes, Esperanza had achieved what the doctors couldn’t, which was Mateo’s reaction. Mama Esperanza, will you sing me the song I want? Sure, my love.

Esperanza softly sang a lullaby. Mateo rested and fell asleep without delirium. The doctor arrived, admiring. Hey, the vital signs have improved a lot. Doc, are you feeling better? Esperanza asked, “If it continues like this, yes. What did they do?” “Mommy Hope has arrived.” Sebastian replied.

So she had to stay at least until she got better. Esperanza spent the night singing, telling stories, talking to Mateo. Sebastian stayed on the sofa and watched. Look at how Esperanza took care of her son with true love. How could someone who loves so much steal, he thought. On the second day, Mateo was much prettier. He played with hope, laughed, ate well.

Mom, Esperanza, why did you and Dad fight? Esperanza looked at Sebastián. It’s complicated, my dear. They love each other very much, right? I know they love each other. I saw it in her eyes. Esperanza turned red. Sebastian too. Son, it’s not that simple. Why not? If they love each other, they’ll get married and that’s it. Because things have happened. What things? Things you won’t understand.

Mateo was serious. Dad, can I tell you a secret? What secret? It could be in front of Mama Esperanza. It could be. I know Grandpa lied about him. Sebastián tensed. How? I can hear it on the phone. He says Mama Esperanza is a thief, but he says, “It’s not a lie.” Well, it’s not a complete lie. Sebastian felt like the world was spinning around him.

Are you sure what you’re hearing? I’m sure. And I recorded it. You recorded it. Mateo took out his cell phone. Do you want to listen? Sebastian held it with his hand shaking. He was listening to the recording and he was stunned. Lord God, when was this? After Mama Esperanza left, Esperanza listened and was paralyzed. So this was a trap.

Esperanza, Sebastián didn’t know what to say. You don’t have to say anything. I know you believe in your father because he’s your family, but he should have trusted you. Sebastian, just let it go. What’s important is Mateo. I’m not leaving him like that. Sebastian held her hand. Forgive me, I’m a fool. Sebastian, forgive me, please. I love you.

Esperanza looked him in the eyes. I love you too. I haven’t stopped loving you. So, are they going back? Mateo asked excitedly. Son, it’s complicated. It doesn’t make sense. They love each other. I love them. That’s it. Esperanza laughed. If only it were that easy. Yes, it would be that easy. Mommy Esperanza, marry my father. Esperanza blushed. Papa, marry him. Sebastián blushed too. Son, it’s not like that. Yes, it is. Ask.

Sebastián looked at Esperanza. Esperanza, will you marry me? Sebastian, are you asking me because Mateo told you I’m not asking you because I love you and I don’t want to live without you. Esperanza hesitated. She wanted to say a lot. Sebastian, I have something to tell you. What? Esperanza took a deep breath. I’m pregnant. Sebastian was paralyzed.

4 months pregnant. The baby is yours. Mateo jumped out of bed. I’m going to have a little brother. Yes, you will, my love. Sebastian was still processing the information. Why didn’t you tell me? Because you hated me. You thought taking the money was a lie. Hope. Sebastian held her hand.

Forgive me for all the doubts, for all the suffering. Forgive me for hiding the pregnancy. They kissed for the first time in months. Mateo clapped his hands. Now I will have a father, a mother and a younger brother. The next day, Mateo leaves the hospital. As he leaves, Sebastian makes a decision. Esperanza, let’s go to my house. I have to settle accounts with my father.

Sebastian, I don’t know if that’s a good idea. Yes, it’s a good idea. He needs to answer for what he did. Papa, Grandpa will be angry. Mateo asks, yes, he will be angry, mijo, but sometimes you have to face the bad guys. In the mansion, Rodolfo was in the office when he heard the car. he went out to meet his son and saw Sebastian entering with hope and Mateo.

What does this mean? Why is this woman in my house? Dad, we need to talk. I can’t talk about her. If you have many. Sebastian entered the room with hope and Mateo. Rodolfo was still angry. Sebastian, are you crazy about everything this woman did, dad, sit there and listen to me. I won’t listen to anything. Mateo approached his grandfather.

Grandpa, do you want to hear something interesting? What happened, son? Mateo opened his cellphone. Listen to me. This, the sound of the recording. Rodolfo’s voice, tell everyone. He can’t find a job. It’s not a lie. Well, it’s not a complete lie. Rodolfo turned pale.

Matthew, where did you get that? I watched it while you were talking on the phone. Papa Sebastian is difficult to talk to. Explain this recording. Can I explain? No, then, explain why it’s not a complete lie. Rodolfo was left without an answer. You put everything together to make hope look like a thief. “Sir, I did this for your good. For my own good. Sebastian is furious. You ruined an innocent person’s life. She is worthless. She is an interested party.

Interested. Dad. She is four months pregnant and she hasn’t told me. If she is interested, she doesn’t hide it. Rodolfo was stunned. Pregnant. Yes. But she is not looking for me. Sebastian, don’t you understand? Yes, I understand. You lied, manipulated, ruined our happiness with false perceptions. This is not false perceptions, this is protection.

Protect from what? A woman who loves our Mateo more than life itself. Rodolfo looked at Esperanza who was silent. And you will say nothing. Esperanza stood up. Yes, I will. You humiliated me, persecuted me, spread lies, I almost starved to death. Hope. But you know what? I forgave her. Rodolfo was shocked.

Did you forgive me? I forgave her because It’s just painful to hold a grudge and I want to be happy with my family. Papa Sebastian speaks sternly. From now on, things will be different. How? Esperanza will be my wife, the mother of my children, and you will respect her. What if I’m not accepted? Sebastian looked his father in the eye, so you lost a child and you will be alone for the rest of your life.

Rodolfo remained silent because he knew he had lost the battle. His manipulation had been discovered and now he had to live with the consequences. Sebastián hugged Esperanza and Mateo. Come on. We have a wedding to plan. A month after the confrontation, Sebastián looked for Esperanza at Doña Soledad’s house. She was five months pregnant. Her belly was already noticeable. I hope, I need to talk to you. Hello, Sebastian.

What happened? I have something to ask you. Marry me. Esperanza stopped cleaning and looked at him. Sebastian, no, let me talk. I know I hurt you. I know I was hesitant when should I trust you, but I love you so much. I know you love me. So why are you so hesitant? Esperanza sat down on a chair. I’m afraid, Sebastian, of suffering again.

You won’t suffer, I promise. How can you promise that? Your father still lives in the same house as you. Sebastian sat down next to him. Hope. When I found out about his lies, our relationship changed. He knew he had lost respect for me, but he was still your father.

Of course, but you will be my wife, the mother of my children. And that’s more important. Esperanza put her hand on her stomach and if she tried to separate us again, she wouldn’t be able to. Now I know who she really is. Sebastian isn’t the only one who worries about me. What else? I’m a poor cleaning lady, pregnant, who lives in the neighborhood. You’re a millionaire. How will this work? Sebastian took her hand.

Hope, do you think it matters This is me? Not you. But what about other people, your friends, your partners? I don’t care about others. I’m sorry if I sound like that, but it’s the truth. Esperanza laughed for the first time. You almost said a dirty word. Next to nothing. I just said I don’t care what others think.

“Of course, that’s hard, huh.” After a while, Mateo seemed to be entering the house. Mom, Esperanza, Dad, they’re here. Hello, my prince. Esperanza hugged the boy. Mommy Esperanza, are you going to marry my dad? I’m still thinking about that, my love. But why do they love each other? It’s complicated, it’s not complicated at all. Mateo turned to his father.

Dad, tell him that we’re going to be a family. Sebastian smiled. Mateo, the mother’s hope, must be sure. Sure of what? That everything will be fine. Mateo held the hand of hope. Mom Esperanza, I promise to take care of you and my little brother forever. Esperanza was so happy. Oh, my love.

And my dad promised too, didn’t he, dad? And, I swear to you that it’s worth the price :). Mateo looked at Esperanza. And you promise that you’ll never leave. Esperanza looked at the child, then Sebastián. Promise. So, it’s decided. They’re getting married. Esperanza laughed. Okay, I agree to marry you two. Sebastián hugged her. Seriously, seriously, but on one condition.

Which one? The wedding will be simple, without extravagance. As you wish. Mateo jumped for joy. I’ll have a real family. Doña Soledad came out of the room. What a scandal this is? Doña Soledad, they’re getting married. Mateo shouted. It’s beautiful. Congratulations. Thank you, Doña Soledad. Esperanza, you deserve to be happy. So do you, young man. Take good care of yourself. Let’s take care of ourselves. Sebastian replied.

On the way home. Mateo didn’t stop talking. Dad, when is the wedding? We still don’t know, son. We have to arrange it. Maybe next week. Esperanza laughed. Don’t worry, Mateo, weddings take time to arrange, but I want it to happen as soon as possible. Why? I want everyone to know that you are my real mother.

Esperanza was so happy. You have considered me your mother. From the first day I met you, Sebastian looked in the mirror. I have loved you very much since the first day. Even though you found out that I am poor, especially when I found out because I saw that you really love me, not because of my money. Aren’t you afraid that people will say bad things? Let them talk.

The important thing is that we are happy. Mateo clapped his hands. That and those who didn’t like it to put up with it. Sebastián and Esperanza laughed at the child’s spontaneity. Dad, can I tell you something? Of course, Grandpa has been sad since that day. Sebastián was serious.

How? He hardly left his room and when he did, he walked around with an angry face. Mateo, your grandfather is going through a hard time. Yes. Why? Because he did some bad things and now he is sorry. He apologized to Mama Esperanza. Sebastián looked at Esperanza. Not yet. Then you have to ask for forgiveness. Son, it’s not that easy. Why not? When I do something wrong, tell me to apologize.

Esperanza intervened. Your grandfather is so proud. It’s hard for him to admit that he was wrong. But if he doesn’t apologize, how will they reconcile? We’ll reconcile in our own way, my love. But it would be better if I apologized, right? Esperanza and Sebastian looked at each other. The boy was right, but they knew that Rodolfo would never embarrass himself.

Even better, son, even better. Two weeks later, the wedding preparations were in full swing. Esperanza was 5 and a half months pregnant and radiant. Doña Remedios helped choose the dress. Girl, you are beautiful, pregnant and a girlfriend, what a joy. Thank you, Mrs. Remedios. You are my real family and I always will be, but now you will have a big family. It’s true.

Esperanza tried on a simple but elegant dress. What What do you think? Perfect. You’ll be the best bride in Mexico City. Meanwhile, Sebastian was in the office when Mateo arrived with his cellphone in hand. Dad, can I teach you something? Sure, my son. Do you still remember the recordings I made with Grandpa? I do. There are many.

Sebastian was surprised. How? Did I continue recording this secretly? Do you want to listen? Mateo opened his cellphone. It was a conversation between Rodolfo on the phone. Mr. Carballo, I need a favor. It’s about my son. He’s going to marry a worthless woman. I want you to investigate this. Look for anything, debts, legal problems, whatever.

Sebastian was stunned. When was this? Yesterday I was in the office. The recording was still going on. I don’t care how much it costs. I want to prove that he’s no good to my family. If you can’t find anything, make something up. This isn’t the first time we’ve done this. Sebastian hung up his phone angrily. He’s not giving up. Papa, Grandpa is in a bad mood. I don’t know what to think of him, Mijo.

Are you going to tell Mama Esperanza? Seb. He hesitated, “I don’t know, she’s stressed about the wedding, but she needs to know why. Because they’re family. Families don’t keep secrets.” Sebastian was impressed by his son’s wisdom. You’re right. That night Sebastian came home with hope. Hello, babe. What happened? You seem strange.

I have something to tell you. Esperanza is worried. Did something happen? It’s about my father. He’s not giving up. How? Sebastian told her about the records. Esperanza turned pale. Do you want to do things about me? It seems that way, Sebastian. And if he succeeds? What if he invents that I have debts or am in prison? Hope. Just slowly.

How can I be calm? If I lie again, no one will believe me. Sebastián hugged him. I believe in you. Matthew believes in you, and that is what matters. But Isi managed to cancel our wedding. He can’t do it. I won’t let it. Sebastian, I’m scared. I’m scared too, but we can’t live in fear of him forever.

Esperanza put her hand on her stomach. Not just for me, but for our baby too. That’s why we have to face this. How? Let’s think of something. The next day, Mateo looked for Esperanza at their house. Mom, Esperanza, can I tell you something? Sure, I love you. I have a lot more to write about my grandfather. More. Yes.

I kissed you again on the phone. Esperanza was sad. Mateo, but something occurred to me. What idea? What if we showed the recordings to everyone at the wedding? How? So when he tries to say bad things about you, we teach him that he is a liar. Esperanza was left thinking, Mateo, is that okay? Why wouldn’t it be okay? He is the one doing the bad things.

Yes, but Mama Esperanza, you can’t let this ruin your happiness again. Esperanza looked at the child. You are right, my love, but I will talk to your father first. Don’t let Grandpa win. I will not abandon my prince. Esperanza hugged Mateo thinking about how to protect her family from Rodolfo’s evil.

That night she told Sebastian about Mateo’s idea. Do you really think he would try to do something at the wedding knowing my father? Yes. So we will prepare to bring the records. When He tries to shame us, we teach Him the truth. Sebastian agrees. It’s a good idea. At least it will protect us. I hope we don’t have to use it.

I hope not, but it’s better to be prepared. The wedding day has arrived. The church is simple but very beautiful, full of flowers. Esperanza is radiant at 6 months pregnant. The dress fits her belly perfectly. Doña Remedios cries with emotion. My daughter is getting married, what joy.

Thank you for everything, Mrs. Remedios. You are my mother in my heart and you are my daughter, you are always there. Entering the church, Sebastian is waiting nervously. Mateo is next to her, well-groomed, with his cellphone in his bag. Dad, are you nervous? Of course, Mijo.

Why do you love Mama Esperanza? I love her very much, but marriage is serious. I know, but it will be happily ever after. The music began to play. Esperanza entered Doña Remedios’s arms. She was beautiful, excited. Sebastian gasped when he saw her. Wow, what a beautiful woman. This is my mother. Mateo whispered proudly, the ceremony was going smoothly when the church door opened with a bang.

Rodolfo Montemayor entered with two large bodyguards. This ceremony cannot continue, he shouted. The guests were shocked. Sebastian was furious. Dad, what are you doing? You are being saved from a huge mistake. Get out of here. Now I am not leaving. This woman is a fool. Rodolfo approached the altar. She deceived everyone.

Esperanza turned pale. Mr. Rodolfo, please, nothing. You don’t know who she really is. Dad, that’s enough. The damage she has done is enough. Damage. I saved our family. Rodolfo turned to the guests. This woman has a criminal record. Rumors spread throughout the church. Esperanza began to cry.

She was already in prison for theft. I have the documents here. Rodolfo showed the papers to his father and the guests. And not only that. She owed a lot of money to various banks. Sebastian tried to stop his father. That was a lie. A lie. Then explain these documents.

Mateo, who has been silent until now, stands at the altar. Grandpa, you’re a liar. Matthew, get out of there. I’m not taking this away. You’re doing all this. How did you know, Esquincle? Mateo takes out his cellphone. Because I recorded it when he agreed to invent these lies. Rodolfo turns pale. What recording? Do you want to listen? Mateo turns up the volume. Rodolfo’s voice echoes throughout the church. If you can’t see anything against it, do something.

This isn’t the first time we’ve done this. The guests are shocked. Rodolfo insists on denying it. That’s wrong. Wrong nothing. Mateo keeps playing. I want to prove that he’s no good for my family. I don’t care what the cost is. People start murmuring against Rodolfo. Esperanza gets up, still crying.

Now everyone will see who the liar is here. Hope. Rodolfo tried to explain himself. No, now I’ll speak. Esperanza spoke to the guests. Rodolfo said I was a thief. He put a watch in my bag to accuse me. Sebastian approached his father. Daddy embarrassed me for the last time.

Sebastian, I’m not tired of his manipulations. Sebastian turned to the guests. My father forged documents against the woman I love. He lied, humiliated me, tried to destroy our happiness. Son, I just want to protect you. Protect me. I almost lost the most important person in my life. He’s worthless. The worthless one is you.

Mateo approached his grandfather. Grandpa, you’re so mean. Mother has good hopes and you’re wasting your time inventing lies. Mateo, I don’t want to be your grandson anymore. Rodolfo was stunned. How could you say that? Because I don’t want to be the grandson of a liar. Esperanza approached Rodolfo. Mr. Rodolfo, you hurt me a lot, but you know, I still forgive you.

Have you forgiven me? I forgave you because I didn’t want my heart to be filled with resentment. I wanted to be happy with my family. Sebastian approached his father. Dad, you’re no longer welcome in my life. Sebastian, you can’t say that, okay. You chose the wrong perspective instead of love. Rodolfo was silent for a few seconds, because he saw that he had lost everything.

They will regret this. No, Father, you will. Rodolfo leaves the church, embarrassed, alone. The guests applaud Esperanza and Sebastián. The Father, who has seen everything silently, smiles. Now that the truth is out, can we continue with the ceremony? Yes, we can, Father.

Esperanza responds radiantly. Then, by the power granted to me by the law, I declare them husband and wife. Sebastián and Esperanza kiss to the joyful applause of the guests. Mateo jumps between the two. Now we are a real family. The entire church is moved with joy. Doña Remedios cries with joy.

Justice is finally served and love triumphs. Three weeks after the wedding, Sebastian and Esperanza are preparing to move into the mansion when they receive an unexpected visitor. It is Commander Patricia Vega, a woman in her 40s. Serious but kind. Mr. Sebastian Montemayor, it’s me. This is Commander Patricia. I’m here for an investigation. Sebastian and Esperanza are worried.

What kind of investigation? Sebastian asks about forged documents and defamation. How? We received a complaint with compromised recordings. Esperanza looks at Sebastián. Recordings, yes, of a Rodolfo Montemayor who was in charge of making forged documents against the woman. Sebastián is shocked.

Who filed the complaint? This was made by a lawyer on your behalf, Mr. Morales. Sebastián frowns. I don’t know Mr. Morales. Mateo appears in the room running. Hello, Mrs. Policeman. Hello, my son. Are you here to talk about the bad grandfather? The commander smiles. Yes, I’m here to talk about him. I just asked Mr. Morales to help us. Sebastián is shocked.

Mateo, who is Mr. Morales? He’s the father of my friend from school. He’s a lawyer. I showed him the recordings and said he would help us. Esperanza was overjoyed. Oh, my child. The commander continued. Mr. Rodolfo is being investigated for at least three crimes: falsification of documents, slander and libel.

And what does that mean? Sebastián asked, that he could be imprisoned for two to six years. Esperanza was surprised. Prison. Yes, ma’am. His crimes were serious, but Commander Sebastian intervened. We didn’t want him to go to prison. How? He’s my father and Mateo’s grandfather. We didn’t want it to end like this. The commander was surprised. Even after everything he did, it was still possible to make a deal with him.

What kind of deal? That he publicly admits that he lied and pays fair compensation. In exchange for what, we won’t pursue the complaint. Esperanza agreed. I accept the deal too. Are you sure? He was hurt badly. I’m sure. I don’t want to carry any resentment in my heart and I don’t want Mateo to grow up knowing that his grandfather is in prison.

Mateo hugged Esperanza. Mommy Esperanza, you are so kind. The commander shook his head. They are very special people. Commander, Esperanza spoke. How long does this kind of process take? Usually about 3 months for the full investigation, then another three for the settlement if you accept. And if he is not accepted, he will be held accountable to justice. It could take years.

Sebastian sighed. So let’s wait. Two months later, the commander returned with news. He accepted the agreement. Accepted. Esperanza was surprised. Yes. He would issue a note in the major newspapers publicly apologizing and he would pay compensation to the woman. How much? 400,000 pesos. Esperanza almost fainted.

400,000 was a fair amount for the moral damage he had caused. Sebastian hugged his wife. Love, you deserve this and more. But it’s a lot of money. That’s what you’re worth to me. Mateo clapped his hands. With that money, Mama Esperanza can help a lot of people. Esperanza smiled. Good idea, my prince. The commander stood up.

My job here is done. Congratulations. Thank you for everything, Commander. Not for everything. It’s an honor for me to meet such a special family. After he left, Sebastian hugged Esperanza and Mateo. It was finally over. Yes, Esperanza sighed. Now we can be happy. Forever. Mateo asked. Forever. A week later, Rodolfo’s letter appeared in all the newspapers

I, Rodolfo Montemayor, publicly apologize to Mrs. Esperanza Hernández Montemayor for the false accusations I made against her. I acknowledge that I acted with a wrong perspective and hurt an innocent and hardworking person. I deeply regret my actions. I am so glad Esperanza read the letter. I never thought I would do this.

Sometimes people change when they lose everything important to them. Dennis replied, “I hope I can learn.” Two years later, Sebastian and Esperanza were in the mansion’s garden, which was now renovated and more comfortable. Esperanza was holding Valentina, a 2-year-old baby, while Mateo, now 10, was playing with his little sister.

Mama Esperanza, Valentina wants you to see how she walks. Esperanza laughed. I’m coming, my love. Sebastián came over and hugged the family. How beautiful they are. We are happy. Esperanza replied, and so am I. The mansion was very different now. Part of it had become a community daycare that Esperanza managed with the help of professionals.

With the money from her compensation and part of the company’s profits, she created the Esperanza Foundation. “Father, do you remember when we met? Of course, you gave your last 280 pesos to two beggars.

Who would have thought that one day I would have the money to help so many people? You are always rich in heart, love. Mateo ran closer. Dad, mom, look, Valentina is walking alone. They ran to where the child was. Valentina was alone before falling and laughing. Stepping. Mateo shouted, Valentina. Stepping. Esperanza was very happy. Our baby has grown up. Mateo too. Sebastián said proudly. Dad, when I grow up, I will help people like you.

Very good, my son. Did you know, yesterday I received a card from Grandpa. Esperanza was surprised. Card. Yes. He misses us so much and has learned to be a better person. Sebastian hugged the whole family. Who knew that a beggar trial would change our lives forever? The best test you have done is to discover my heart.

Esperanza answered, and I discovered that family is the one who truly loves each other. Mateo said, Valentina clapped her hands as if she agreed. As the sun set, the Montemayor family embraced in the garden of their home, now filled with love, laughter, and hope. They had finally found their place in the world.