Hotel Cleaner Feeds Wheelchair Child, But…
L wakes up early every day even before the sun rises. It’s only 4:00 in the morning, the sound of her alarm clock can be heard in the small room in the old dormitory. A broken cellphone that has lost its signal. She quickly fixes herself. puts on an old but clean uniform and combs her short hair that is always in a ponytail with a small rag, she wipes her shoes with a tear on the side so that the hotel guests won’t notice how long it has been on her. Ela,
I’m hungry. Do you still have medicine? A tall girl asked in the corner of the room. Ella, 10 years old, has a long-standing lung disease. She is pale and often sneezes, so she can’t go to school. She still has an older sister. It’s only half. But I’m okay. Promise. Ella replied. Smiling at the same time. Trying to hide her blush.
Ella was smiling. Laika knows the gravity of her sister’s situation. This is why she left her simple life in the province and headed to Manila to find a job that would pay for Ella’s medicine. Here she ended up at the Serapim Grand Hotel, a five-star hotel in the city where she works as a cleaner.
Despite the many housekeepers, Lay is always expected to clean the delicate rooms. She is clean at work, never complains and never asks too much. But despite her dedication, her income is still not enough. It is always not enough for medicine, for Ella’s milk and especially for her long-held dreams.
While walking to the hotel, carrying a plastic bag filled with bread and a thermos of instant coffee, she mentally writes the lines that will go into her poem. Yes, Lay is not only a cleaner. She is also a poet in her quiet world. She writes poems in an old notebook during break time so as not to be laughed at by the other staff.
Life is like a floor being cleaned. You keep polishing it but the marks don’t disappear. He whispered as he walked. When he entered the back entrance of the hotel, he was immediately greeted with cold looks from several fellow housekeepers. Hey, there’s the boss’s favorite, whispered Tesa, one of the senior housekeepers
Maybe he’ll be assigned to the VIP rooms again later. L blinked. He was used to the pranks. For him, it was more important to stay at work than to give in to jealousy. He immediately timed in and went straight to the locker room. A sticky note was stuck to his locker. Room 1107. Full VIP setup. Expect inspection.
This was the signature of their housekeeping supervisor. Room 1107. He whispered. That was the most expensive room in the hotel. Always booked but rarely used. There were many rumors about that room being used by the hotel owner’s family but no one could confirm it. When he reached the 11th floor, the surroundings were quiet.
He had a few colleagues passing by but they ignored him. He opened the door to room 117 and took a deep breath. Upon entering, he was immediately greeted by the fragrant smell of expensive linen and freshly arranged flowers. He carefully began cleaning from the windows, carpet, CR to the minibar.
While adjusting the curtains, he noticed a strange sound from the other side of the suit. There was a sliding glass door that separated the main area from a small reading nook. From there, he thought he heard a faint sob. He approached, cautiously and peeked through the crack in the curtain. He didn’t see it right away.
But when he pulled the curtain back a little, he could see the small figure of a child sitting in a wheelchair. Its head was leaning against the edge of the glass and it seemed to be deep in thought. It was holding a stuffed toy and there was no one with it. A child here in the VIP room. It was his meeting but he immediately bowed his head.
It was not in his job description to interfere in the personal lives of the guests. He went back to sweeping the floor. Trying to put aside the child’s strangeness in the room. After leaving room 117, he couldn’t help but think about what he saw. Who was that child? Why was he alone? Why did he seem so sad? In the back of his mind, it seemed like something was slowly scratching its head with curiosity.

But he knew that no matter how much pity he felt, just one mistake could get him fired from this job. It was night when he got home. Ella and his room was quiet. The child was already lying down and the coughing was getting worse. L put away the old notebook and wrote the words he hadn’t composed in a long time.
The child behind the mirror stared at him but didn’t ask a question. It was like I was looking at the world but part of the story. Little did he know that in the next few days that child would be the beginning of a change he never expected. Laica’s days at the Serafim Grand Hotel returned to normal. But the scene he saw in room 117 kept coming back to his mind.
He couldn’t get the boy in a wheelchair sitting alone by the mirror like a shadow left by the world with every sound of his map. On the marble floor with every cycle of the vacuum cleaner on the soft carpets of the hotel. He had a question he wanted to answer. Who was that child? And why did she seem to be trapped in a world of silence? A week later, La 110 was hired again.
She noticed her housekeeping colleagues looking at each other as she signed the assignment slip. It was as if there was something she was deliberately not saying. She chose to ignore the murmuring and focused on her work. All she had to do was get her paycheck and buy Ella’s medicine before the week was out.
When she arrived at the 11th floor, she had memorized every step to the room. The surroundings were as quiet as ever and even the regular floor staff didn’t pass her by a single one. She opened the door to room 11:07 and as usual, a grand view of expensive furniture and a very clean interior greeted her.

While arranging the pillows on the king sized bed, she heard the faint sound of sobbing again. It wasn’t loud but seemed restrained and secretive. She slowly approached the sliding glass door. It was curtained but had a slightly open opening. She stopped. She hesitated. I shouldn’t have. She mumbled. But pity and concern prevailed.
She opened the curtain a little and as usual, the child ran in. He was wearing a white polo shirt with his head resting on the edge of the wheelchair and he was not aware that he was being watched. But before he could move, something rustled behind him. What are you doing there? A woman’s cold voice. L turned around.
This was one of the housekeeping assistant managers. Trixy. Known for being strict and a favorite of the supervisor, Madam Soraya. Ah ma’am, I just heard that someone cried so it’s not your job to look into the private section of the VIP suite. Trixy said firmly. If you don’t want to get burned, go back to cleaning. Lica nodded.
She didn’t say anything. She went back to fixing the CR and erasing fingerprints on the glass with a microfiber towel. But the image of the boy was already etched in his mind. In the staff canteen that night. Almost no one spoke to Lay. He was used to being quiet. But now he felt a strong coldness from his colleagues
While eating soup and bread, he heard a whispered conversation at the other table. HR said it was the owner’s ankockdown. The boy upstairs, the one who always stays in room 110. Yes, but he said he didn’t have a mother and was disabled. It was like a hotel secret. It was forbidden to talk about it. L stopped eating.
He didn’t mean to but he was staring at the people talking. One of them noticed this so they immediately fell silent and turned away. The next day, while sweeping the hallway on the 1st floor, Mang Jerry, one of the hotel’s long-time janitors, approached him. Mang Jerry was quiet and polite but rarely spoke at length.
Now there was an obvious serious expression on his face. Lika, avoid getting too close to room 117. He said softly. Why, Mang Jerry? It’s not that I’m angry with you, Iha. But there are eyes in the hotel that you can’t see. That kid is Don Rafael’s son. But since that accident, our boss doesn’t want us to talk about his family. Even HR is quiet.

Why is he always alone? Lika asked. Poor. I don’t know everything. But I’ve been working here for a long time. When there’s a problem with the owner’s family, you shouldn’t interfere. Even if you have mercy, that’s how it is here. It’s just work. L fell silent. With so many questions in his mind, no one had the courage to fully accept it.
But no matter how hard he tried, he couldn’t get rid of the pity for the child he saw behind the mirror. This world was so small. The reading nuke and the silence were unsweet. That night while walking home, he suddenly thought of his own sister Ella. What if this was the situation of that child? No one to talk to, no one to take care of, no one to care about.
I shouldn’t care about this, but I can’t be bothered either.” he whispered. When he arrived at the dorm, he found Ella lying down while hugging a small pillow. Lay stroked her cheek. Then he sat at their small table. He opened his old notebook and wrote the words. There were rooms in the hotel that were full of light but quiet.
Some children were huddled in silence and had the heart of a cleaner who could hear what was being said. As Laya wrote to herself, the decision was gradually formed, even though it was forbidden, she would not miss the opportunity to be that child’s friend. Lay felt heavy as she carried her cleaning trolley from one room to the next.
It was 7 a.m. and her soles were cracking with pain. After a whole day of cleaning rooms with guests who liked to litter and didn’t know how to say thank you. The only thing that kept him going was the memory of Ella’s smile and a deep question that was bothering him. Did that kid eat? He noticed in room 1107 that there was a train of food that was almost uneaten
A whole fried chicken, mashed potatoes, juice and an expensive cake. As usual, it looked like it had never been used again. LCA took it from inside the room and placed it in the food disposal tray. But instead of immediately throwing it in the hotel kitchen trash can, he stopped. What a shame. He whispered softly while staring at the food.
It was as if he was shouting don’t turn me on. From the containment staff, La could only buy porridge or bread from Ella. He was also forced to save on nutrients. A pack of noodles and eggs with a little soup. But now this food was still warm, clean, neat and above all expensive. He looked around the back kitchen. There was no one. The night was quiet.
In a moment of determination that he had tried to ignore before, he took the tray to the back of the building. He was taken away by an echob when he took it home. It wasn’t for him. It was for to Ella. Arriving at the dormitory, Ella was overjoyed to see the food. Wow, sister, fried chicken.
Where did you get this? The kid’s almost there. There was leftover food from a guest. It was still clean. I should have thrown it away but I just took it before it got dirty. It’s yours, right? La explained while scooping mashed potatoes onto a small plastic plate. Even though it was leftover, it was still delicious. It felt like eating at a restaurant. Ella smiled as she savored each bite. Lika smiled
At that time, she seemed to have forgotten the tiredness, the fear, and the danger of what she had done. But in the back of her mind, the image of the boy sitting in the wheelchair returned. Lonely, quiet, pale and out of place. The next day, she didn’t think twice. After the shift, L deliberately went to the back of the building on the side near the emergency exit where deliveries often pass.
That’s where she saw the boy. He was still in a wheelchair. Wearing the same clothes as if he hadn’t changed. and holding a toy in his hand. Still no one else. L. Bitbit approached the food container that he had put in his own bag. A simple rice and porridge that he had asked his friend on the kitchen staff. Hi. Mm.
Do you want food? He asked. His voice was careful. The child looked at him. Silent. But in his eyes there was a hint of doubt that was quickly replaced by a strange light. He nodded slowly. Lay sat next to him on the cemented edge. He took the spoon and began to feed the child. When it was served to the child, he tasted the porridge and closed his eyes.

“It’s delicious. My name is L. Introduce yourself to the girl. What’s your name? Gab. Gab, your name is beautiful. L smiled. I’m sorry if the food is just like this. I didn’t bring anything else. This is better than what I eat. Gab said almost in a whisper while trying to finish the rice. Lika thought.
With the size of the hotel, with the many staff, why does it seem like no one wants to come near this child? Why doesn’t the nurse or guard seem to be taking care of him? If he really is the owner’s son, after the meal was over, Gab smiled. “Thank you, sister Lay!” It was as if something pierced Lay’s heart when he heard his name from that child.
He didn’t say his full name yet but it seemed like the child already knew or maybe he was just trying to imitate. But more than a simple thank you, Laika felt something that she hadn’t felt in a hotel for a long time. The feeling that someone had truly made her happy. Gab, are you always here? She asked before leaving.
I’m only here but I should be come out. This was a weak answer. I just wanted to see the plants there. The child pointed to the small garden patch near the loading doc. Lika nodded. Just don’t stay here too long. And if you’re hungry, come find me or just leave my handkerchief by the side of the hallway.
When I saw you, I knew you wanted to talk to me. He handed over the old handkerchief, squeezed the child’s shoulder and left quietly. He didn’t know if he was doing the right thing. But he was sure of one thing. That child had a soul eager for compassion. That night, as he wrote in his notebook again, a new poem sprouted in his heart.
Behind the gold and marble, there was a heart hiding. The surroundings were silent, but the feeling screamed with meaning. A child in the dark, a cleaning girl. Two souls that met. He didn’t know why. He didn’t yet know the consequences of his simple meal and conversation. He knew that the change had begun not only in the child but also in him.
The a few days since she first fed Gab by the emergency exit. As usual, Laika secretly left her leftover food in the place where they last met. They didn’t always see each other. But every day when there was leftover food from the kitchen, she knew where to take it.
One night, after her shift, Lika passed by the back of the hotel. She was carrying a plastic container full of tinola chicken. She asked Aling Marites, the cook in the canteen. In exchange for the old blouse she had sold. She knew that Ella loved tinola. But the fight with Dab prevailed.
She endured it for the sake of the child who seemed to have become a part of her conscience. When she approached the old place, she was surprised by what she saw. Gab was leaning against the wheel of his wheelchair. His face was pale and his whole body was shaking. His lips were pale and there were beads of sweat on his forehead.
Lay immediately approached the child. Gab, Gab, what happened to you? asked she said as she put down her bag and patted the child’s cheek. I’ve had a fever since this afternoon but I don’t want to be inside. Gab’s voice was weak, obviously suppressing a cough. L turned to There was no nurse with her, no guard. Not a single staff member seemed to know about the child’s condition.
Is no one helping you? Where is your nurse? She asked. Shaking with anger and fear. They don’t come near me when I don’t call. Because I don’t want them. I don’t want them. Gabla replied. She almost had no strength. Lika didn’t think anymore. She immediately took off her jacket and wrapped it around the child as the wheelchair rolled into the service door
This is not right. She whispered to herself. This child is not a toy. Upon entering, she met a night shift supervisor. His eyes widened when he saw Lika. Sweaty and out of breath. While pushing a VIP guest child. Laya, what are you doing? The woman shouted.
Why are you with that child? Don’t ask anymore, ma’am. He needs help. He has a fever and is shaking. He has no one with him. Lika shouted as she headed straight to the hotel clinic. At the clinic, there was only one part-time nurse there. She was busy organizing the inventory. When she saw them, she immediately stood up.
What happened to him? The nurse asked. He had a concussion. He could barely speak. He needed a checkup. Now. L’s order. Holding back her tears. While the nurse was examining Gat, Lisor was confronted. Do you know that you could have been fired for what you did? He’s a VIP, the owner’s son. And what, they’ll just leave him to die on the side of the building. He has a fever

No guard. Noticed. L shouted. His voice almost cracked with anger. The supervisor fell silent. For the first time, someone saw the truth and was not afraid to speak up. A few minutes later, a private ambulance arrived. The clinic nurse called it because of Gabanganib’s high fever and dehydration.
The child was immediately taken to the nearest private hospital. Laika, remained silent in the clinic hallway. Still holding her jacket that smelled of sweat and medicine. Her hands were shaking not because of fear but because of the fear that this might be the day that her livelihood would be completely cut off.
The next day, Laica received a letter from the HR department. She was summoned for an emergency disciplinary hearing. She worked all morning with seemingly no security. Her teammates did not talk to her. No one greeted or even looked at her as she passed through the hallways. Others were clearly avoiding her and some were muttering behind her.
At lunch, she did not eat. Instead, she went straight to the small garden of the hotel with her notebook and sat down behind a pillar. She opened a page and there she began to write. A child was forgotten by the world. A woman chose to intervene. In a world where everyone is afraid of names, I will choose to stand up for what is right.
Suddenly the door opened behind her. A woman approached. HR staff carrying a brown envelope. Miss L Pascal, you are now being summoned to the executive floor. That’s it. Lik stood up. She closed the notebook and took a deep breath. She didn’t know if what she was facing was the end of her job or the beginning of a new phase that she had never imagined.
But in her heart, no matter what happened, her decision was complete. She would not regret helping a child in need. Even if that child was the child of a powerful person who could change his life. With just a snap of her finger with every step La took towards the executive floor of the Seraphim Grand Hotel, she felt her knees tremble.
He had never been to that place before. Only the department heads and the hotel owner’s staff went there. The silence of this floor was different. A large door, clean marble floors, and cold air from the centralized air conditioning system greeted him. He felt like a bird that had landed in the palace of eagles
He stopped in front of conference room 3. Outside, a receptionist immediately approached him. You are Miss Lay Pascal. She nodded. Come in. They are waiting inside. The woman said as she opened the heavy door. Inside was a long conference table. And at the far end of it were three people.
Madam Soraya was their old supervisor who had been harboring anger towards him for a long time. Miss Odet, HR manager of housekeeping, and Mr. Cortez, assistant general manager, were holding papers and looking at him formally. The surroundings were quiet but the tension suddenly screamed.
Sit down, Madam Soraya said coldly. She sat down. Her hands were trembling slightly, which she tried to hide under the table. Do you know why you are here? Miss Odeth asked. She looked straight at her. It was because of the child I helped last night. She answered. A weak voice. Not just any child I helped.
Madam Soraya interrupted immediately. You disrupted the hotel system. You violated protocol and exposed our VIP guest to a possible scandal. You know that is forbidden. Laika was sweating. She wanted to answer, explain everything but she felt that no matter what she said, their decision was already closed.
Under hotel policy, according to Mr. Cortes, interfering in the private lives of VIP guests, especially if it is done without permission, can be grounds for administrative termination. We saw you pushing the child’s wheelchair, taking him to the clinic and even calling the ambulance without coordinating with the head nurse or VIP services

But his fever is already high. No one is helping him. If I hadn’t done that, maybe. Madam Soraya cut him off. It’s not your job to interfere. If you have a concern, you should have gone through the proper process. L was silent. He felt defeated by the system. A system that makes helping someone a sin if the person being helped is powerful.
Because of this, effective today. You are suspended for 3 days while the incident is investigated. You can leave now. Miss Odeth declared as she handed over the document that needed to be signed. Lika stood up. She accepted the paper and no words came out of her mouth. She held back the tears that were trying to fall as she left the room. In the elevator.
She went down alone. Holding the suspension paper. There was no sound, no words. Only the whirling of the clouds of what had happened accompanied her. When she left the building, she went straight to the nearby park where she often hung out when she couldn’t go home right away. There she took out her notebook and read the last entry.
There seemed to be pain in every line. But there was a feeling that did not give up. An hour passed before he returned to the dorm. When he got inside, Ella immediately hugged him. Sister, I’ve been waiting for you for a while. You must be hungry. I have fried something there and an egg. Lika smiled. Even in the midst of depression, Ella’s small voice gave him strength.
But the child noticed the sadness on her sister’s face. Did something happen, sister? Ella asked. She looked carefully at the paper Lika was holding. I was suspended from work, Ella. Maybe I’ll lose it too. She answered directly. Is it because of the child you helped? Ella was curious. She nodded. Yes.
He is the son of the hotel owner but no one helps him. I can’t stand it Ella. I can’t just look away while the child is struggling. What you did was not bad, sister. Ella’s weak but firm response. You are just being kind and it’s not a sin to help. Laika burst into tears at those words.
She stroked her sister’s head and forced a smile. The next morning, she didn’t go to school. But despite her suspension, she still went to the cafeteria to find extra work. Even if it was just for one day. She still had to buy Ella’s medicine. With a meager income of Php500 for a full day of washing dishes and mopping floors, she endured it.
On the afternoon of the second day of her suspension, she received a text message from an unknown number. You don’t know the child you helped yet. Your story isn’t over yet. Laika was stunned. She didn’t know who R was. But at that point, she knew there was a deeper stage coming.
The question was, was she ready for the change it could bring? On the third day of her suspension, while doing laundry outside the dorm, Lika was busy thinking about how she would get through the next few days. The electricity and water bills are coming up soon and at least she still needs to buy medicine for him. But what she thinks about more than the cost is the young sigab, the child who seems to be silently screaming for help and only she can hear him.
“Lika, do you have a letter?” shouted Mang Leo, the old caretaker of the dorm, while holding a white envelope. Lika’s face frowned. She never receives letters. She didn’t expect anything either. It must be from the hotel. It has your name on it. Security gave it to her just now. Mang Lio explained. She immediately took the envelope.
She felt heavy as she opened it. It had no logo. There was no signature on the back. When she took out the letter inside, she immediately stopped. It was handwritten and at first it looked like it was from a child learning to write. There were squinted and uneven letters but the content was clear. Sister Lika, thank you.
You were the only one I talked to who wasn’t afraid. I remembered my mom when I was with you. I hope you come back, your friend Gab. She bowed for a moment. The whole area was silent as he stared at the words. He didn’t expect to receive a message from Gabalong, he didn’t expect the feelings that flared up in his chest. This wasn’t just pity

This is caring. The two of them have a connection, a child trapped in silence and a young woman who tried to build a bridge between two worlds. That night, he forced a smile for Ella. He cooked the leftover instant noodles. And while they ate in the dark because the electricity had been cut off, he read the letter to Ella. She was so sweet, ate.
She said she really remembered you. Yes, that’s the owner’s daughter. But it seems like she’s even more pitiful than us. Lika replied while holding back tears. No mom, no real companion. The wealth around her but the sadness in her eyes. But ate, if you’re important to her, she might look for you again.
Maybe you should go back to the hotel too. Ella suggested. L thought. It wasn’t far-fetched that the child would use her connection with her father to change everything. But on the other hand, she also didn’t know if the child had the power to save her from the hotel’s administrative process.
The next day, while looking for a temporary job, he stopped by a convenience store to buy bread. On his way out, he was surprised to see Mang Jerry, the old janitor of the Serapim Grand Hotel. Laya, Mang Jerry called as he approached. Good thing I saw you. Mang Jerry, how are you? He asked politely.
I just wanted to say something, Hijja. It wasn’t in the memo or anywhere. But yesterday a VIP arrived at the hotel. We thought it was from the Investors Group but instead of the businessmen, a boy got out of the van. It was Gab. It was Gab. Why was L stunned? They were looking for you. They didn’t talk to anyone else. I didn’t want to talk to the nurse. They refused to eat.
They just said, “Ate Lay.” Over and over again. They said there hadn’t been any proper food since yesterday. They said their father was angry. Lay froze where he was standing. He felt his chest tighten and it was as if a voice inside his heart was screaming. The boy needs you. Mang Jerry, what should I do? I can’t answer that, Hijja
But if you ask me, not all kindness is reciprocated immediately. But sometimes when the heart is honest, a miracle still happens. Lay thanked her and went home untied. In her sleep, the message in the letter replayed in her mind. I remembered my mom when I was with you. The next day, she received a call from an unknown number.
After she hung up the phone, she was momentarily stunned. Her tears flowed not because of sadness but because of shock. The child wanted you, so you were the one who was appointed. And not in HR but in the CEO’s private office. Lika couldn’t believe it. From a janitor who was suspected of that, she was invited to speak directly to the person with the highest position in KTE.
She hadn’t walked yet. But deep down, one thing was certain. A new resilience was blossoming and it started with a letter. A letter from a child who was hurt, sad, but with a heart that knew how to be grateful. As she put on a neat blouse, she tucked the small piece of paper that was Gab’s letter into her pocket.
She knew it wasn’t just a memory. It was a reminder that those without a voice need to be fought for by those with a voice. And sometimes even a simple cleaner can be heard by the world if her heart is truly pure. Laika arrived in front of the Seraphim Grand Hotel to a glitzy halt. She looked again at the tall building, the luxurious lights inside and the uniformed guards who seemed to always be busy
It had only been a few days since she had last walked that very street as a cleaner. But what a different world she was about to return to. She carried Gab’s letter inside the pocket of her blouse. The most secret weapon and a reminder of where everything came from. “Miss la Pascal.” A receptionist asked at the VIP entrance. Yes. It’s me. You’ve been sent to the executive lounge on the 18th floor. Someone is waiting for you. The receptionist politely responded as she handed over the visitor pass. La was silent while inside the elevator. As the floor rose, a question seemed to be forming in her mind.
Why me? What do they want from me? And who exactly is Gab? Opening the door, she was greeted by a man in a black suit. Obviously a bodyguard. Ma’am, we’re here. She followed silently. At the end of the hallway, the man opened the double doors of a large but quiet office

Inside the modern room with a gallery-like interior and tall mirrors, there was a man. Standing by the window, looking down at the city below. He was wearing a dark suit and even though his posture and aura were obvious, he was very serious. His hair was slightly gray at the edges and the movement of his hands reflected the depth of his thoughts.
Mr. Inigo, the bodyguard said. Miss Pascwal is here. The man slowly turned around. His face was serious, as if he was always used to difficult decisions. But behind his cold eyes. There was a trace of fatigue and sadness that he could not hide. Thank you Enzo. Leave us alone for now. He gave a weak order to the bodyguard.
After Enzo left, silence remained in the office. Mr. Raphael Inigo just nodded to Laica and invited her to sit in front of the table. I won’t make it any longer. I know you have many questions. And I also have many things I want to ask you. Rafael began. L was silent. He didn’t expect the owner of the entire hotel, the man behind the millions worth of business, to be facing him now.
And most of all, this was the father of the child he had fed several times in a hidden corner of the building. I want to know what really happened the night you took Gab to the clinic. I want to hear from you, not from HR reports or my bodyguards, Annie Rafael. While staring straight at him. L took a deep breath before starting to speak.
He recounted what he had seen one by one. The times when no one took care of Gab, his fever and the absence of anyone who wanted to come near I can’t bear to leave him alone sir. Even though I know it’s dangerous at work, even though I know I could be fired, he’s a child. A child who gets sick at night is not guilty, Annie Lay.
While trying to keep his voice from shaking. Rafael was silent after hearing everything. He turned around again and looked out the mirror again. Do you know how long I haven’t heard from you? Gab who spoke in full to a person who was always quiet, always writing on his tablet or on paper. But since he met you, he’s only looking for you.
You’re the only one he wants to talk to. Raphael’s voice was weak but clear. He turned to Lay and this time, he saw a different look on the billionaire’s face. Not angry. Not controlled but a father. A father who was tired of repeated failures. My wife died in that accident. I was driving. Gab was there in the back.
I didn’t know that he would be in a wheelchair for the rest of his life from then on. Since then, I tried to give him everything. doctor, nurse, therapist, gadgets even an entire room that looked like a palace. But I never made him smile again until you came. Sir, I didn’t do anything special
I just fed him. Talked to him, listened to him. Lika replied. Shyly bowed. Exactly. Rafael said. You were the only one who listened to him. As a person, not as a patient, not as the owner’s son. To my staff, he’s a VIP. To me, he’s my son. But to you, he’s just a friend. Lika couldn’t stop the tears from falling.
She didn’t expect to hear this from someone who had all the wealth in the world. But she didn’t know how to get close to her own son again. Sir, if you’ll allow it even if I don’t go back to work. Can I still visit Gabinsan-minsan once? La asked. Her voice trembled. Rafael smiled.
For the first time, her face softened. I want to offer more than that, right? She replied. Gab wants you around. And me, me too. I want to get to know you more as someone who can bring her son back to life when the world has almost forgotten him. I want to invite you not as a cleaner but as part of Gab’s family.
Personal companion. You don’t have to do anything but be with him. Talk to him. Make him feel like he’s not alone. L didn’t immediately answer. He closed his eyes and felt every beat of his heart. His world revolved around finding a salary for Ella’s medicine, avoiding conflict at work.
Enduring boredom and oppression. But now that he was faced with an offer that could change all that, he didn’t know if it was a blessing or just another test. But he knew one thing for sure. Young Gab was not just the son of a billionaire.

This is a child who found a mother in the heart of a cleaner. A few days after her conversation with Rafael Inigo in the executive lounge. It seemed that peace had returned to Lay’s daily life. He had not yet returned to service as a hotel staff. but HR had already sent a message that he was still suspended while the documentation was being finalized.
However, there seemed to be a wind of change. There was no explicit promise that he would be reinstated but there was a hint of possibility. Meanwhile, Ella also felt reassured. As Laica prepared to face the hotel again, now no longer as a cleaner but as an offered personal companion, she tried to understand what kind of responsibility it entailed.
This was not a simple job. This was a new world, a role full of emotions, not just a profession. One night while he and Ella were having dinner with a tinola that was almost entirely soup and ampalaya. Lay received a call from a number he still did not recognize. Thinking it had something to do with Gab or Rafael’s offer.
He answered it immediately. Miss Lica. A familiar voice of a nurse from the hotel greeted her. Sorry for the inconvenience but Gappo is running a fever again. Lay’s hair stood up. Where is he now? Is he with no one? Is he in the hospital? He’s just in his sweats. He doesn’t want to go out. He refuses to be accompanied by a nurse. He’s not eating either.
He said he can’t talk to anyone but you. L didn’t hesitate. Even though he didn’t have a formal contract yet, he immediately said goodbye to Ella. Son, it’s Gabit again. He needs me. Ella pleaded. forced a smile. Okay, sister, take care. Tell Gab to get well soon. Carrying a small bag with a face towel, baby wipes and a piece of napkin with a simple poem.
The poem he made when they first met. L ran to the hotel. Upon arriving at the Serafim Grand Hotel, he wasn’t let through the employee or guest entrance. He was ushered into the VIP driveway where a bodyguard who seemed familiar to him was waiting. Third floor, Eastwing
Gab was in the therapy lounge with her. He didn’t want any nurses to come near. When Lika entered the room, she immediately smelled the scent of medicine and lavender. An obvious attempt to make the child’s environment comfortable. But amidst the soft chairs and high-end medical equipment, there was Gab sitting in a wheelchair.
There was a small blanket on his shoulders and he was pale. Gab! She called softly. The child slowly looked up. In an instant, he smiled and slightly removed the mask from his mouth. Sister Lika! Lika quickly approached. She placed the bag next to him and held the child’s hand. His skin was warm and his eyes were dim.
Your fever is high. Why didn’t you tell me right away? Lika asked while wiping the child’s face with a face towel. I don’t like the nurses. They take care of him differently. Unlike you. Gat said weakly but clearly. I’ve been waiting for you for a while. I thought you wouldn’t come. Lee clutched his chest even though it had only been a few days since he was suspended.
He felt that what was between them now was not just a simple guest-staff relationship. This was a relationship that no job description could break. Gab, no matter what happens if you need me, I’ll come. La whispered as she placed a towel on the child’s neck. A doctor arrived, looking surprised that LCA was there. Excuse me, ma’am.
Nonmedical personnel are not allowed here. But before Lika could speak, Gab interrupted softly but firmly. I don’t want anyone else. I only want Ate. The doctor looked at Lica. Then he nodded. Okay, just keep an eye on him. The fever is high. He’s taken his medicine. But if he doesn’t go down in two hours, we need to take him to the ER. Yes.
I’ll take care of it. Laika replied while fanning the child. When the doctor left, Lib fell silent again. While resting Gab, LCK took out a small piece of paper from the bath. The poem he had written long ago but had just read to the child.
With every beat of silence, there was the cry of a measured heart. But with the arrival of his silent friend, a light broke through the darkness. Gab remained silent with his eyes closed. But a tear fell from the corner of his eye. Thank you, sister L. The child whispered. The next day, Gab’s fever had subsided. According to the doctor’s report, he had recovered faster than before.
And although the hotel management had not yet made a formal decision regarding Laika’s position, a memo was sent to Rapael Inigo from the medical team. Gabriel Inigo responded significantly well to Miss Lica Pasqual’s presence. Recommend formalizing her involvement in therapeutic support. Although Lika had not yet accepted the offer of the new role, she could already feel that she was gradually being accepted

Not just a child but the world that once limited her. On the last night of that week while Gab was sleeping in the therapy lounge, Lika left her notebook with her signature on the back on the table nearby for Gab, who had the maid change the floor and prove that there was still room in this world for Malasakit.
The next morning while Lika was quietly drinking coffee on the old bench near the back of the dormitory. A call from an unregistered number broke her thoughts. She was still holding the phone by the side as her finger trembled as she pressed the accept call. Miss L Pascal. Yes. It’s me. This is the general manager’s office of the Seraphim Grand Hotel. You are being summoned now.
A personal request from Mr. Rafael Inigo, he wants to talk to you as soon as possible. Lika’s chest felt heavy again. Even though she had talked to Rafael several times, that call was different. This wasn’t about Gat. This wasn’t a message of gratitude or a personal invitation.
It was formal, official and the tone of the caller’s voice seemed to have a serious air. Lik quickly dressed. chose her best blouse and hid inside her bag the small notebook containing poems she had never revealed to anyone except Gab.
When she arrived at the hotel, she did not go through the main lobby. Instead, a bodyguard picked her up again and took her straight to the general manager’s office. Inside, there were Miss Odeek from HR. Mr. Cortes the assistant GM and the person she had not expected to be there, Madam Suraya, her supervisor who had always seemed to have a crush on her for a long time.
The room was quiet as she was ushered in, she was seated in the middle and she felt like a defendant in court. Miss Pascual, Miss Odeth began as she opened the folder in front of her, you will remember that you were recently suspended for unauthorized interference with the hotel’s VIP guest. It was our policy that the door suddenly opened. All eyes turned.
Rafael Inigo entered the door. His presence was cold as before. But now Lika felt the weight of his aority more. Behind him, young Gab followed silently. Sitting in a wheelchair and holding a small stuffed toy in his lap. “Good morning!” Rafael greeted briefly before coming to the front and standing in the middle of the room
I’m sorry if I didn’t arrive right away, but I don’t want this meeting to continue without me. No one spoke. “Miss asqual.” Rafael looked straight at her. “They are right. You violated hotel protocol. You did not follow the proper process. You took on responsibilities that were not yours. In a system like this hotel, such an act could be grounds for termination. Lika bowed her head.
She knew the words were true. But Rafael suddenly spoke. More gently but more sharply. But in that system there are holes. There are shortcomings. And if you had not deliberately pointed out those shortcomings, I might not have seen how much a child’s heart can be attached to someone who knows how to listen.
The whole room gasped. Madam Suraya looked at Rafael but did not speak. In fact, Rafael continued, this child, my son, has not eaten properly for three days, has not talked and has not followed therapy. Until Lika arrived and since then, his energy has returned. He started reading, writing poems, smiling again. Rafael turned to his son.
Gab, do you want to speak? Gab nodded to the speaker. I don’t want to with someone else. It was just Sister Lika. Lika burst into tears in her seat. Not because of that but because of the feeling that for the first time in a long time, a child stood up for her. Because of that, Rafael said facing Miss Odeth and Mr. Cortes.
I am revoking the suspension of Lika Pascal. From today, she is no longer an employee of housekeeping. Lika and those present were shocked but before she could feel depressed, Rafael immediately said. Starting today, she will be assigned as Gabriel Inigo’s personal therapeutic companion.
Not just as a friend but as an important part of his daily life. And this was not an offer, this was an order. The managers looked at each other. Madam Suraya couldn’t believe it but didn’t answer anything either. She stood up silently and left the room. After the meeting, Gab approached L. “Ate La, are you coming back to me?” the child asked.

There was a worry as if he was still afraid of losing her. Lay knelt in front of her and held her cold hand. “I won’t leave, Gabin, I won’t let you go.” When he left the GM’s office, he was carrying his new ID. Not as a cleaner but as Gab’s official caretaker. The title was different, but that wasn’t what mattered.
In his heart, he had only one goal, to love a child who had been erased by the world and was now slowly returning to the color of life. In the elevator. The two of them were side by side. Gab was silent while still holding the stuffed toy but he smiled. Can you write another poem later? Of course Gab was for that again. And that day, the hotel employees saw the owner’s young son for the first time.
Not as a mysterious VIP but as a happy child. Because of the company of a former cleaner who knew better how to clean a wounded heart. than any expensive service in the entire hotel. Laica still couldn’t believe it as she stared at the new ID that HR handed her. It clearly read, Therapeutic Companion Gabriel Inigo.
In an instant, her previous role as a cleaner was replaced by a more personal, more emotional responsibility. She never imagined that in the hotel where she had been stepped on and suspected several times, she would be given a position not because of her diploma but because of her heart.
After a brief orientation at HR, she was taken to a room that had been designated as the official companion quarters. A small but airy room on the fifth floor near the Inigo family’s private wing. It had its own bathroom, a study desk, and a single bed that was more comfortable than her usual dorm bed.
As she organized her things, a knock broke the silence of the room. “Come in,” Laika said. Rafael Inigo entered. Now there was no bodyguide, no suit. He was just wearing a long sleeve shirt with the sleeves rolled up and holding a small photo album. I want to show you something, Lik Annie Rafael, as he sat in the chair in front of the desk.
L was silent as he sat down too. He didn’t know what kind of conversation this was. But he knew it was important. I know you’ve heard a lot, gossip, opinions of other staff. But now that you’re part of Gap’s life. I want you to know the truth. All the truth. Rafael opened the album.
One by one, the pictures were shown, full of smiles. Gab as a cheerful boy while being carried by a woman who looked like him. There were pictures of him at the beach and there was a picture with a big birthday cake in front of Gab while his mother held his hand. My wife’s name is Myn.
A teacher, simple. Likes to write poetry. Like you. That’s where I was first attracted to him with his words that always had depth. Rafael’s story. He smiled slightly. Mayor, we came from an award ceremony. He and his mother were holding hands in the back of the car. I was driving. Someone crossed the road. Suddenly the brakes were applied
The car hit the pole. I was only slightly scratched. But Myen was hit in the neck, Gab in the spine. Lika fell down. She never thought that the influential Rafael Inigo would have such a heart disease. Since then, Gab has never spoken to me at length again. No matter how rich, what doctor. Nothing worked.
I taught him to smile at the guests but not at me. Until the day the therapist told me, “Your child doesn’t need a nurse. “He needs your full presence.” Lika was silent. Her tears were flowing not from pity but from the feeling that they were both crying over. The loss. Sir, she said softly.
I’m sorry if sometimes I thought you were neglectful. Now I understand. Rafael shook his head. You have nothing to apologize for. You are the only one who has the courage to approach him even though you know nothing about us. While I, even his father, always have fear. Fear that I will never be forgiven. Lika leaned back in her chair. thinking about her own life

You know, my father left us when I was seven. My mother died of tuberculosis. I raised Ella alone. All my earnings go to her. We both lived between the abandoned and the abandoned. Rafael, I can’t go back to the past, but I want to change the future and I want you to be part of that change.
Rafael stood up. He handed me a folder. This is your work contract. Your salary covers all of your sister’s medical needs. Including her scholarship in case you want to send her to school in the city. This is part of my gratitude not only for what you did but for the role you played in my daughter’s life.
Lika couldn’t believe it as she opened the contents of the folder. On the side of the document was Rafael’s own signature. There was the hotel’s legal department stamp and a clear provision. Scholarship and full medical support for dependent Ela Pascal. He sat down again, holding the papers as if they were magic in his palm.
But instead of thinking to herself, what she immediately asked was, “Sir, are you sure about this? Is there no alternative that I can’t stand?” Raphael smiled. The only alternative is to keep alive the trust a child gave you. That’s all. Nothing more. Rafael went back to the door. But before leaving, he looked at L.
Do you know what Gab said last night before he went to bed? I wish ate was always here even when I’m not happy. Because even when I’m not happy, I can be quieter when I’m with her. At that moment, Laika stared out the window of her small room. From a position of a cleaner, now she was the voice of a child who had almost forgotten how to speak.
And in her heart, a promise that would never be written in a contract but in daily presence. To remain a companion, a listener and a guide. As she sat down, she opened the notebook and on the new page, she began to write. There was a house made of glass filled with the gold of the wealth of respect. But inside, there was a tearful child who smiled with this feeling again.
Two weeks after Lik formally accepted the position at Gab’s therapeutic company. Gradually, the course of their days changed. Instead of the clatter of mops and the smell of floor wax that greeted Laica every morning, what woke her up was the gentle sunlight from the clean and airy room and Gab’s soft voice from the other room, sometimes asking for another poem before she could even get up.
“Good morning, Ate Lika. Can we have a poem before breakfast? She handed him a piece of paper with a few lines that he had tried to write. Lay smiled as she read the child’s letter. It’s so cute. You’re the one who’s going to be the one to write it now. She parted Gab’s hair. “Oh, okay, I’ll read it, but after you eat. Deal deal.” Gab replied as he waved to Sweet’s dining area. Their routine has become more meaningful with each passing day. From simple stories every afternoon to reading books before bed, Gab seems to be regaining his energy. According to his physical therapist, he is now participating more in exercise sessions. He is now sitting more firmly and he is also often socializing with even a few hotel staff. Gab’s improvement is amazing, Miss Laica. The physical therapist said one day. It’s not just the medication. Your emotional support really has an effect on him. You have a different pull on the child. I didn’t mean it. I just wanted to she felt that she was not alone. Lika realized while smiling as she watched Gab busy coloring a book. But Gab was not the only one who was changing in this new phase of their lives. Even Ella was gradually rising from her difficult situation. Because of the scholarship included in La’s contract, Ella was able to transfer to a good school near the city.
Her health is better. The treatment is also ongoing and above all, she is gradually experiencing life with hope and direction. Kuya with our guidance, ate La, it’s so kind. Then I even got a free tablet from school. Ella was very happy when Lika called one night

Really? Well, you’re even better than me now. Laika replied while trying not to cry with joy. You have to be great. Be proud of where you came from. Poverty is no obstacle to dreaming. I know that, sister, because you are the proof. Lika smiled. Back then, she was the one who always sacrificed for Ella.
Now, all her hard work is gradually bearing fruit. The pain, fatigue, and tears are a waste. At the hotel, Laa has been completely accepted not only by the department heads but also by the ordinary staff. She used to be ridiculed but now they look up to her not because of her connection to the owner but because of her story.
A story spread by the very child she took care of. Hey, Laya, Aling Marites greeted from the Kitchen. The boss’s daughter is beautiful. But you’re even better. I saw your interview in the hotel newsletter. It’s so bad, I cried. Oh Marites, don’t cry for me. I’m embarrassed. La joked with a wink. No, it’s not true.
Not all cleaners can make their hearts a bridge to revive a child like Gab. Even her former housekeeping colleagues who once avoided her have started to greet her. It’s no longer forced. It’s no longer mixed with doubt. She is proof that no matter how low the position, if the goal is true, the entire system will rise and be recognized.
In the midst of these changes, Laika has not changed. She still continues to write in her old notebook. There she pours out what she can’t say. The fear that one day everything will suddenly disappear. The joy every time Gabasa smiles is where this blessing continues. One afternoon while Lika and Gab were watching the sunset together from the veranda of the sweet, the child asked.
Sister Lika, are you happy now? Lika didn’t answer right away. She stared at the sky that was gradually turning black but there was still a golden light in the clouds. I’m happy because I woke up again for a reason. I’m happy because a child trusted me. How did you know you were happy? He asked again when you weren’t looking for anything in return for everything you did, when you gave joy to others and that was enough to fill your own heart.
Gab nodded silently. What if I disappeared? Are you still happy? Lika turned around. You won’t lose Gab because no matter where you go, you’ll carry our story with you. And as long as there’s still poetry in your heart, you’ll never be lost. That night, while Gab was sleeping, Lay sat next to him and wrote the latest poem.
In the quiet, starless night, a small voice suddenly came. He wasn’t perfect. There was a wound in his flesh. But with his smile, I came back to life. This was Lay’s new beginning, no longer as a housekeeper but as the light of a child who had been in the dark for a long time. And with each passing day, he promised himself that he would never stop.
Because true caring is not a job. It’s a vow. While Lay’s daily life with Gab was lively and relaxed, the hotel environment was gradually changing. The changes caused by her story were also gradually emerging. One morning while she was with Gab in the music therapy room, a quiet, slightly loud murmur reached her from the hallway.
Did you know that Madam Soraya was fired from her position? She wasn’t surprised but she didn’t immediately show her reaction either. Instead, she focused on what Gab was doing. She played the xylophone with her weak fingers as they sang Twinkle Twinkle Little Star. But in her heart, she knew this day would come.
After the session, while they were eating snacks, Rafael himself confirmed the news to her. Liga, I would like to inform you that Soraya is no longer part of the Seraphim Grand Hotel. There have been cases pending against her for a long time but her behavior towards you, especially when you were suspended, was the last straw. I advised Lika.
I don’t want anyone to lose their job but it’s true that I was hurt. I understand. But there are positions that need to be held with dignity. And if instead it is used for oppression, it is no longer worthy of staying. Rafael replied. After a while, Gab approached her and spoke softly. Was Madam Suraya the one who always yelled at you before, sister? Lika looked at the child in the room who nodded.

Yes Gabo, everything is okay now. No more shouting. Our world is quiet. And in that silence, the hotel’s stance deepens. With the change brought about by Lika’s story. The previously unheard weaknesses of ordinary staff began to come out. Kitchen helpers, janitors, bellboys who began to speak out, no longer afraid.
In response, Rafael issued a new rule. A monthly open floor dialogue where employees can submit complaints, suggestions and experiences directly to HR and inquiries. And not only that, he invited Laika as one of the employee relations ambassadors. I want to include you.
Laika, Rafael said to her one afternoon while they were watching Gab happily playing with the hotel’s therapy dog. You are the face of change here and I will not hesitate to convey to all employees what kind of heart each one of us should have. Am I not embarrassing? I don’t have a college degree.
I am used to speaking in front of many people. She replied, seeming hesitant. What employees need is not fancy words. They need the truth and you Lika, you are the truth, we need you more. And that’s exactly what happened. In the first employee dialogue, Lika was one of the speakers. Although her hand was shaking while holding the microphone, Lika directly told the essence of her experience.
I didn’t want to be a hero or be special. I’m just an older sister who wanted to help a hungry child. I didn’t expect anyone to see it then. But honestly, the only thing that matters to me is that I helped someone who was not noticed by others. And if there’s anything that needs to be changed in this system, it’s our belief that simple concern is useless.
The employees applauded for several years, as many of them felt that they were being listened to. And Lika’s role in that change didn’t end there. Rafael, who was previously known for being distant and cold, began visiting the hotel’s offices and departments more often. He was no longer the only CEO in the hallway portraits.
He is known as Gab’s father, especially the defender of a new culture of caring. Do you know, sister Lika? Anigab once while they were writing poetry. People in the hotel are happier now. They are no longer afraid. My brother in the kitchen said that it was because of you. L smiled. We are all, Gab, you are in it. I want to be like that when I grow old.
The one who can help even if there is no return. You are more than that, Gab. Because even though you didn’t speak before, just by looking at your eyes, I know that you have a heart capable of loving. As the days passed, the effect of Lik’s presence became clearer. He was no longer just Gab’s companion.
He was already a role model within the hotel. An advocate for the dignity of ordinary employees and above all, a proof that real change does not have to come from above but can start with a woman quietly cleaning the floor. On one of those days, Rafael called him to the office
He brought a document, an invitation. La, I want to offer you a scholarship. Not just for Ella. I would also like you to study. There are part-time courses that are available while you continue with Gap. Psychology, special education, even writing, whatever you want, I’m ready to support. La didn’t answer right away.
She looked at the document and it was as if she was back to her old self. The uneducated woman, without connections and without a voice. But now she was here. Being chosen, being listened to. Thank you, sir. She said while holding back tears. I’ve wanted to learn for a long time and if there’s anything I can learn to better care for Gab and help others, I want it.
When she returned home to their small apartment that was now better organized and no longer lacking electricity and water, Ella hugged her tightly. “Ate La, did you know that I’m the top one in our class?” She smiled and kissed her sister on the forehead. “That’s right, son. Because from being a cleaner, I’m also going to be a teacher.” And that night, Lay opened her notebook again.
He wrote the most beautiful poem. Not for Gablang but for everyone like him. I don’t have a crown. I don’t have a crown. But in every sympathy, the heart has value. In every corner of the world of wealth, there is a cleaner who is silent but can change history. The months passed quickly. From a corner of the hidden story, Laika has become the center of inspiration for the entire Seraphim Grand Hotel

Even though she wasn’t used to the attention, she couldn’t deny that the world that used to revolve around floors that needed to be wiped now revolves around hearts that needed to be awakened. And this time, it wasn’t just Gab who was revived, but herself as well. One day while Lika was busy teaching Gab a new way of writing using a special pen recommended by an occupational therapist.
Rafael arrived as if carrying a surprise. We were supposed to organize a small event. He said as he lowered the folder he was holding. It’s a quarterly employee appreciation program but this quarter I want to make it special. Lica wondered. Why? Because there’s someone I want to honor.
Not just because of what he did for my son but for all the hotel staff. It’s you. Lika couldn’t speak right away. Sir, aren’t I too much? Raphael cut her off. You don’t know it but you’ve helped a lot. You had colleagues come to HR. You started writing a complaint without fear.
Someone requested a mental health break. Someone applied for a scholarship program for their child. And all of that because they saw that something could happen when they spoke up. Because of you, L slowly looked at Gab who was smiling quietly while stroking his paper with a new poem. You were the only one you started helping, Gab.
But it turned out that it had expanded. Rafael’s language. I would like you to have you read one of your poems in front of the employees. As a thank you and inspiration. The day of the employee appreciation event arrived. The hotel’s function hall was temporarily closed. Decorated with gold cloths. There were staff from various departments.
Housekeeping, FNB, security, admin, kitchen. Everyone was there. But the setting was different today. No grand guests. No VIP artists. Only one stood in the middle of the stage, Rafael Inigo. Holding the microphone. Today, Rafael began, we will not count sales or occupancy rates.
We will not count ratings or review scores either. Instead, we will focus on the heart of our service. She walked to the side. She pointed to the quiet woman at the edge of the stage. Here is Miss L Pascal. To many of you, she is known as a former cleaner in housekeeping. But to my son Gab, she has become the voice in the silence.
And to many of you, she has become the reminder that the voices of those who are not often heard are valuable. Lay was restless. When she heard her name, her knees seemed to soften. But despite the nervousness, she walked up to the stage. Carrying her small notebook.
Today was new but her hand was still writing as usual. Good afternoon, she began. She tried to steady her voice. The one in front of her was quiet. Hundreds of eyes were looking at her. Some she knew. Some she had just seen. But behind their eyes, she could see the same thirst for a story.
A story that could be theirs too. I was just a cleaner back then. Quiet, hardworking, always bowing down to avoid being noticed. But sometimes even when you bow down, someone can see you and not because of your noise but because of your heart ready to listen. He opened his notebook and read his poem. There is a voice in every broomstick.
There is a prayer in every wipe of the mirror’s cheek. There is love in every moment unseen. and there is a dream in every drop of sweat that silently descends into this world of marble and crystal we are not always shiny but every action we take is a mirror of hope that at least sometimes someone will see tears welled up in Laika’s eyes as she walked down the stage but the applause flowed even more loudly, truly and from people who were once also part of the story of silent patience. After the event

Miss Odeth from HR approached her. You weren’t the only one who received praise. You were also included in the hotel’s new mentorship program. You are the first employee advocate with the goal of helping new staff, especially those from the provinces. We want to systematize your natural goodness.
Laica couldn’t believe it. I’m a mentor. Yes. Miss Odeth answered. Because sometimes the most important thing to teach is not the many lessons but the many experiences. That night, while she and Gab were talking on the terrace of the Suwe, she took out a new notebook. She gave it to the child. What’s that for, Gab.
Start writing because one day you will be the one to share your story. Gab looked up. Sister Lika, you are the reason why I believe in tomorrow again. No, Gab. Laika answered. You are the reason why I started forgiving the past. They laughed silently and on the last page of her old notebook, Lika wrote a final poem.
I am not a queen, not a princess, I was not born in gold or a palace. But a wounded child loved me and with his silent love, I became more than any title. This is the story of a cleaner who not only cleaned the floor but also the heart of the child who brought him back to life.