Chapter 5 - THE MOTHER WHO REFUSED TO BE BOUGHT
Mara Brooks did not trust powerful men.
She had learned that lesson early.
Ruby's father had been charming.
Generous.
And unreliable.
He made promises easily.
Kept them rarely.
When Ruby was two, he disappeared.
Mara spent years rebuilding their lives.
She studied horticultural therapy.
Worked multiple jobs.
And eventually found stability at the Rose Conservatory.
Elias Varela had given her a chance.
She never forgot it.
Now his brother was showing up every morning.
Asking questions.
Helping Ruby water plants.
And looking at Mara with an attention that made her nervous.
One afternoon, Mateo approached her office.
"Mara."
She looked up.
"Mr. Varela."
"I'd like to increase your salary."
She froze.
"Why?"
"Because your compensation hasn't changed in four years."
She studied him.
"Is this connected to the sale?"
"No."
"To Ruby?"
Mateo frowned.
"What?"
Mara crossed her arms.
"Are you trying to buy our gratitude?"
Mateo stared.
Then slowly shook his head.
"No."
She looked unconvinced.
He continued.
"I reviewed the payroll. Your salary is below market for your responsibilities."
Mara hesitated.
"The adjustment would apply to the position, not to your relationship with me."
She looked at him.
He added:
"And if you prefer, we can have an independent compensation review."
Mara's expression softened slightly.
"That would be better."
Mateo nodded.
"Then that's what we'll do."
He turned to leave.
Mara stopped him.
"Mr. Varela?"
He looked back.
"Thank you for asking instead of deciding."
Mateo smiled faintly.
"I'm learning."
That evening, Ruby found him beside Lady Thundercloud.
"Mom says you helped fix the money problem."
Mateo laughed.
"I tried."
Ruby nodded solemnly.
"Money problems are very annoying."
He smiled.
"Yes, they are."
She looked at him.
"Do you have money problems?"
Mateo laughed.
"Not exactly."
Ruby considered.
"Then maybe you have other problems."
His smile faded.
"Yes."
She nodded.
"Everybody does."
Then she handed him a small mint plant.
"This one is for you."
Mateo stared.
"Why?"
"Because it needs a home."
He looked at the plant.
Then at the little girl.
"Thank you, Ruby."
May you like
She smiled.
"Don't drown it."
