The audience is petrified watching the two brothers who face each other on top of the stage. Malú keeps trying to get away from the security guard to go to where Thiago and Ícaro are.
— What did you do? – asks Thiago, panting.
— What I promised you when you were born – answers Ícaro, holding the back of his brother's head — to protect him with my life.
Ícaro slides through Thiago's arms, who tries to hold him with all his strength, but his brother's body is heavy, limiting him to laying him on the ground.
— No! – shouts Aline as she observes the scene.
The crowd is panicked running towards the exits of the hall, being followed by Graziela who is frustrated. Silly man thinks the blonde heading towards the exit, calmly.
— You slut! – Aline curses, pulling Graziela by the hair.
The brunette throws Grazi to the ground, trapping her with her body as she throws furious punches at the woman who shot Ícaro. Graziela tries to shoot towards Aline who throws the gun to the side, hitting the blonde even more in the face.
— I'm going to finish you – shouts Aline, pulling Graziela's hair, infuriated.
The blonde manages to push Aline who falls to the side, so Graziela goes on top of her, retaliating all the blows she received. The two roll on the floor, fighting in the middle of the rush. Until Graziela manages to retrieve her weapon pointing at Aline who raises her arms.
— Apparently you're not so brave when you have a gun pointed at you – pins Graziela, wiping the blood from her lips.
— Shoot, but it's better to hit – teases Aline open— chested – Because if you miss, my face is the last thing you'll see in life.
— It's worth the risk – answers Graziela, cocking her gun — What will be your last words?
—You're under arrest. – Aline replies, smiling.
— What? – asks Graziela without understanding.
— Drop the weapon! – orders the policeman behind Graziela — You are surrounded!
Graziela continues pointing the gun towards Aline while looking around, making sure she is cornered by the police. She then puts the gun on the ground and raises her hands.
— You're under arrest – determines the policeman, taking the handcuffs and arresting Graziela, who smiles at Aline.
— It's not over yet – warns Graziela being pushed by the police officer — I'll be back.
— I'll be waiting for you – Aline replies, watching Graziela being led out of the hall.
She runs towards the stage where Thiago is kneeling holding Ícaro's hand. Malú approaches beside her father, crying.
—What did you do, brother? – asks Thiago, crying.
— I'm giving you back your chance – replies Ícaro — Forgive me...
— No… – Thiago refuses in tears. — There's nothing to forgive.
— I failed… I failed you… I failed Malú – says Ícaro looking at his niece — Forgive me, Malú.
—Don't die, uncle. Please – asks Malú holding Ícaro' hand.
—What the hell do you think you're doing? – Asks Aline approaching Ícaro. Malú walks away, giving way to the aunt who kneels beside Ícaro, nervous —Don't you dare die... You can't abandon me, do you hear me? I refuse to live without you.
— Aline, forgive me – asks Ícaro touching the face of his beloved.
—I've already forgiven you, you fool. – Aline retorts, touching Ícaro's hand.
— I don't deserve your love – says Ícaro — Even more so after... everything.
— We don't rule the heart – Aline.
— You don't understand… – Ícaro blurts out, watching the paramedics arrive.
—Stay away. – the paramedic orders.
They walk away leaving the team to take care of Ícaro. Malú hugs her father, curling up in his arms, crying into his chest. Aline cries accompanying the team towards the ambulance along with Thiago and his niece.
— Take care of my daughter – Thiago asks Aline. He pushes Malú's body away, who is terrified and gives him a kiss on the forehead saying — I'll come back to you, I promise.
He enters the ambulance accompanying Ícaro who is now unconscious.
— Now, I'll take care of you, my brother – whispers Thiago as the ambulance drives out of the Club.
***
Ricardo starts his car, observing all the movement of the club, drives carefully towards the exit gate, passing the police car, where Graziela is trapped. He's grateful he got rid of this one more... He promises himself he'll go back to the little bumps when a car pulls up in front of him, blocking his way. Benjamin starts honking his horn frantically, drawing the attention of the police, much to Ricardo's dismay, who picks up his gun and points it towards Malú's boyfriend, who doesn't panic.
— Get out of the vehicle with your hands in the air – orders the military policeman, gun in hand, to Ricardo.
After a few seconds, the actor gets out of the vehicle being watched by Benjamin, who smiles satisfied to see Ricardo being handcuffed and arrested. He gets out of his vehicle and walks towards Malú and Aline who are hugging and being interrogated by another police officer.
— Tell me, miss, how it all happened – the policeman asks Malú.
— Dr. Ricardo, my speech therapist – begins Malú, surprising Aline and Benjamin — He went to my grandmother's house saying that I had a speech therapy session, which was a lie. My grandmother, Maria Luísa Assunção de Almeida, hid me and the housekeeper, Adelaide, and then she came back to talk to him. All I know is that at some point Graziela, who is my father's ex–fiancée, entered the house too and asked Adelaide for help, who came out of hiding to get my cell phone. I stayed a few more minutes, but then I decided to find out what was going on and… I found Adelaide on my father's bedroom floor. I went to look for my grandmother and then I saw that the two were together and they said they were going to kidnap me... They left the house and I was finally able to go see my grandmother. I asked my boyfriend and my aunt for help. So Benjamin picked me up and we came here... And then everything happens. Graziela tried to kill my father to disperse everyone and facilitate my kidnapping... And the rest you know.
—Okay, know that you'll have to repeat all this to the deputy, okay? – informs the policeman who walks away.
—Malu, are you talking? – Aline asks, surprised — When was that?
— I don't know... When I saw Uncle Ícaro and my father... I said. I don't know how to explain it... – Malú replies sadly.
— Oh, my love – says Aline hugging the young woman — Everything is finally over... Now we have to hope your uncle is okay. He was a true hero today.
— Auntie… – Malú calls, moving away from Aline — Uncle Ícaro… he was also one of Graziela's companions to kidnap me.
— How it is? – Aline asks, shocked — How do you know that?
— I heard Graziela and Ricardo talking... He wasn't on stage to save Thiago, but to kidnap me.
— Are you sure? – asks Aline, upset.
—Yeah, I just didn't have the heart to tell the cop. I don't want the uncle to go to jail – reveals Malú hugging Aline. —I don't want to end his life.
— You won't end anyone's life – comforts Aline touching Malú's hair. She pushes her niece away from her embrace — Look, I'm going over there to talk to the policeman to see how your grandmother and Adelaide are doing, stay here with Benjamin, okay?
— It's OK. – Malú agrees, looking at Benjamin, who is still wide–eyed — What happened, Ben?
“You're talking again,” Benjamin replies, surprised.
“Yes,” confirms Malú, embarrassed.
“I'm happy” says Benjamin, approaching Maria Luísa.
— I hope nothing changes between us – Malú comments sadly — If you want, I'll continue to speak in Libras with you.
" Is playing? I don't want you to speak in Libras” Benjamin refuses, seriously.
— No? – asks Malú, surprised.
" Not even. Your voice is the most beautiful melody I've ever heard in my entire life” praises Benjamin “I don't want to stop listening to it... ever”.
— Thank you – thanks Malú — For everything.
The two approach, shy... Benjamin fixes his girlfriend's hair giving Malú a light kiss on the forehead, who snuggles into the arms of his true hero.
***
A few days later...
Maria Luísa wakes up being received with great affection by Aline, Malú and Thiago who were looking forward to her recovery. The matriarch flashes a smile to her family members and then turns away to find Adelaide also recovering. The two hold hands, smiling, they succeeded.
— Welcome back, Mom – says Thiago putting the bouquet of roses next to Maria's bed and kissing her mother's face — We missed you already.
— Thank you, my son – thanks Maria, touched. She reaches out to her granddaughter who approaches with tears in her eyes — Hello, my heroine.
—Hello grandma. – Malú replies, causing Maria to widen her blue eyes.
— You spoke again – Maria blurts out, surprised.
— Yes, grandma. – Malú answers smiling, holding her grandmother's hand.
—Now you can stop exchanging notes with the Malú girl – reveals Adelaide to Malú's surprise, who faces her grandmother.
'So you were the one talking to me?' – asks the young woman, shocked.
— Yes, I didn't know how to approach you… so I decided to use something I have in common: books – Maria replies.
— Negative – Malú disagrees — You have a huge library, so it's getting better, because I need new book tips.
— It's okay, we have a lot of time to catch up on those books – Maria agrees looking at Aline — Hello, Aline.
— Hello, Malú Vó – Aline answers at the foot of the bed.
—Can you guys leave us alone? – Maria asks Thiago and Malú. —I have to have a word with that one, young lady.
Malú and Thiago leave the room, leaving only Maria Luísa, Adelaide and Aline who frowned, not understanding the reason for that request.
— Adelaide, tell Aline what I told you to do – orders Maria looking at Adelaide — With the note she left
—Mrs. Maria told me to tear up your note. – Adelaide replies.
— Why did it? – Asks Aline approaching.
— Aline, you would only drive Malú away with that note. She deserves an explanation, a good explanation about her past. Have you ever talked about it? – asks Mary.
— No, the days are very busy… – Answers Aline, sitting on the edge of the bed.
—Did you give up on seeing your mother? – asks Mary.
—No, I haven't given up yet, but I have something to do before I leave.
— All right, but know that if you leave, before doing so, talk to Malú, be honest. She deserves it – asks Maria, getting ready.
— Alright – agrees Aline sadly.
— Aline – Maria calls — Any decision you have to make, know that you have my support.
'Even if it involves your son?' – Asks Aline taking a deep breath.
— Any decision – reinforces Maria — Go.
— Always bossy, Malú Vó – mocks Aline with a slight smile.
— That's my role in this family – Maria replies, holding Aline's hands — In our family...
— Thank you – thanks Aline hugging Maria.
—I don't hug... – Maria mutters. When Aline finally lets her go — Know that this hugging thing won't last...
— That's what we'll see – retorts Aline, walking away — See you soon, Malú vó.
— See you soon, my daughter. – Maria replies, watching Aline leave the room.
— Mrs. Maria – Adelaide calls, attracting Maria's attention — Which child is she talking about?
***
Ícaro wakes up, feeling a little pain, because of the bandage on his back. He looks at the window that has the curtain closed and at the headboard, photos of him with Thiago... photos of him with Malú and Anna and, of course, of him with Aline who is now near the door and looking at her own feet. He coughs to get her attention as she approaches the bed, sitting on the edge while watching the man in front of her.
— Hello… – greets Ícaro touching Aline's hand, which she avoids — Are you okay?
—Yes, it's all right. – Aline replies, biting her lip.
— Where are the others? – asks Ícaro looking around looking for someone else.
— Thiago and Malú are in Maria and Adelaide's room – answers Aline, seriously.
'What happened to them?' – asks Ícaro, nervous.
—Didn't you know? – Asks Aline raising her eyebrow — Graziela shot them both while she and Ricardo... Ricardo was Malú's speech therapist, but he wasn't a real doctor... Anyway, they plotted to kidnap Malú, but like her mother. .. I mean, Maria was smarter and thwarted their plan. So she shot them both...
—My God. – exclaims Ícaro, in shock.
—Oh, but it doesn't end there. As if it wasn't enough to shoot both, she planned to shoot Thiago and still kidnap Malú. But Thank God, none of that worked, because you saved your brother and the police arrested them all – finishes Aline with a huge smile.
'Is everyone all right?' – Ícaro asks, worried.
— As far as possible – replies Aline, seriously.
—I'm glad it all ended well. – comments Ícaro, relieved to try to hold Aline's hand once he gets up.
— You shouldn't – Aline retorts, upset — You're the last person who should be happy after everything that happened!
— Aline, please… – asks Ícaro.
— No... I had forgiven you, Ícaro – interrupts Aline, nervous — I forgave you for everything that happened... I could understand why you hid the truth about Anna and Malú all these years. Despite everything, I still managed to love you. Because you, Ícaro, have suffered a great injustice in your life. I know what it's like, I know what it's like to be the black sheep, the family mistake. I justified all your attitudes and forgiven each one of them... Because, in addition to loving you, I know that you did it seeking to have something for yourself... For being loved by someone... for being loved by someone. You also wanted your chance to be happy and I understand that perfectly... For sixteen years, I lived with you. Our lives intertwined in an incredible and unique way, as never happened with anyone else. I knew him like the back of my hand. I loved every imperfection of you that I discovered in these sixteen years... and I continued to love you after that.
—I love you too. – declares Ícaro with tears in his eyes.
— But my love for you ended when I found out that you were involved in Malú's kidnapping – confesses Aline wiping her face — How can I love someone who is capable of thinking about hurting someone he created? How could you think of doing this to her? The little girl who only slept when you read to her... You taught her to read... Ícaro, you were Malú's father!
—Please, I need to explain... – asks Ícaro, crying.
— Explain? There's no explanation from you that I haven't thought of. I know you did it thinking that after they rescued Malú, we would go back to BH and everything would be as before. – Alleges Aline — You went to my house obsessed with this idea. However, I repeat what I said months ago: Nothing will be the same.
— Aline...
— You're not the Ícaro I fell in love with... or the man I loved – comments Aline, bitterly. She walks towards the door, opening it and continues — As I said: they were all arrested in the end...
—Ícaro de Almeida, you are under arrest – determines the officer entering with two other policemen. They handcuff Ícaro to the bed who looks at Aline in surprise.
—They confessed. – concludes Ícaro, lowering his head.
— No. It was me – reveals Aline — You were right, you don't deserve my love. See you one day, Ícaro.
Aline leaves the room without waiting for an answer from the one who was once the love of her life. She passes crying by Thiago who walks towards his brother's room, he thinks about going after Malú's aunt, but after what happened to Ícaro, he decided to give up his feelings and move on.
He enters the room finding Ícaro handcuffed and two policemen on guard, while the officer passes all rights and duties to his brother, now in prison.
— What's going on here? – asks Thiago, not understanding — Why are they arresting my brother?
— Attempted kidnapping, formation of a gang, in addition to participating in the attempted murder for clumsy motives – replies the officer.
— No, that's not possible – refuses Thiago, approaching his brother — Ícaro?
— Forgive me, Thiago – asks Ícaro, guilty.
—Were you involved? – Asks Thiago, incredulously — This is impossible... You would never do that... You are my brother. Ícaro, say something.
— I'm guilty, Thiago – confesses Ícaro staring at his brother — I'm sorry...
—Were you involved in everything? – asks Thiago, seriously.
— No! I would never kill anyone! – Icaro replies, regretful — I didn't know that Adelaide... that Maria... By God, I would never have imagined that Graziela would shoot them, much less you.
— It's okay, Ícaro. I believe in you – says Thiago, approaching his brother — I will do everything in my power to help you.
— But I was the one who came up with the kidnapping idea – reveals Ícaro — Forgive me, Thiago.
—In the past, I would never have been able to forgive you, but like you, I also made a promise and I will keep it. I will take care of you, my brother.
***
A week later...
Aline walks towards the bandstand, where Maria Luísa and her granddaughter are busy reading. After Ícaro's arrest, Thiago has asked for the elections and the return of Maria and Adelaide, the brunette feels that it's time to return to her old home and set things right. But, as the matriarch promised, she would talk to her niece first, and that's what she came to do when she sat with them on that beautiful Saturday afternoon.
— Here you are – comments Aline admiring the hardcover of Malú's book, which smiles at her. Maria looks up from her book, guessing that the time for Aline to talk to her granddaughter has come. She gets up, gives Malú a kiss on the forehead and leaves the bandstand, leaving only her aunt and niece —We need to talk.
—Okay. – Malú agrees, placing the book on the table. She narrows her eyes at her aunt — But I still think Hugh Jackman is prettier than Robert Downey Jr.
— Don't start a battle you won't be able to win, young lady – claims Aline taking her niece's provocation in sport. They both laugh and then the brunette continues — But that's not what I came to talk to you about, Maria Luisa.
— Full name? What did I do? – asks Malú, getting ready in his chair.
— You did not do anything. But I think it's time for me to explain the truth about my past – reveals Aline, seriously telling everything that really happened until her brother's death, receiving Malú's full attention — I was wrong... I thought I didn't deserve a chance , but then your mother came along and gave me this opportunity to live with you. I wanted to tell her, but I was afraid of ruining it. But I did wrong and I admit it. I can't tell her the truth anymore, but you deserved to know. I hope you'll forgive me for withholding my past.
— Tia, I've already forgiven you – Malú answers, touching Aline's face — You don't have to act like that.
— But not only that. – continues Aline — I'm leaving, Malú. Tomorrow I will embark for São José, I need to settle accounts with my mother... She also needs to know the truth.
—So... is this goodbye? You are leaving me? – asks Malú, confused.
—This isn't goodbye. But the time has come for me to move on and deal with my past – replies Aline.
—So you will return, right? – asks Malú, hopefully.
— I don't know, Malú – Aline answers sincerely — Your life is here, with your family, but mine...
—You are also my family. – Malú retorts tearfully.
— But my life isn't here… – Aline continues — I need to find myself, and maybe this trip will give me that opportunity. You understand right?
— I'll be lying if I say I understand, aunt – Malú replies, saddened — But you were always a free spirit, as Mom used to say.
— Hey, young lady – calls Aline touching Malú's face — I'll always visit you. This is not goodbye... I want you to know something...
— What? – asks Malú, curious.
—Robert Downey Jr. is better looking than Hugh Jackman. – scoffs Aline.
— Ah, but it's not really – retorts the niece smiling — I'll miss you – Malú confesses, hugging her aunt.
— Me even more, my love – says Aline — But the time always comes for us to move on and mine is now.
The two get up and walk towards the mansion, hugging.
—Do you know who else will miss you? – asks Malú, mysteriously entering the hall.
— Who? – asks Aline, curious. The first person that comes to his mind is Thiago, but after everything that has happened, he will hardly miss her.
— Malú Vó – Malú replies, pressing the book to her chest. — She has that tough pose, but she will miss you to death.
— Don't tell her, but I'll miss it too – says Aline, smiling. —Actually, everyone.
—Why will you miss everyone? – asks Thiago leaving the office — Are you leaving, Aline?
— Hi, Thiago – greets Aline, embarrassed.
— I'm going to put my book away – Malú comments between the two who are staring at each other intensely — As if you care… – the young woman grumbles up the stairs.
— Hi, Aline – Replies Thiago admiring Malú's aunt, despite all his efforts not to do so — So you're leaving? Because? Where you go?
— Wow, so many questions – exclaims Aline, breaking the ice between them — I'm going to São José… I need to settle accounts with my mother. And then... God only knows.
— I understand… – Thiago comments with slight sadness. He extends his hand towards Aline — So, have a good trip.
— Thank you – thanks Aline, squeezing Thiago's hand, turning red. That grip was the closest the two had come to each other in a long time.
— This house won't be the same without you – comments Thiago with a sad smile.
—I hope so. – replies Aline, holding back her emotion. She lets go of Thiago's hand and points to the air, excited — Or else I'll have to go back and get everything back on track...
— I hope you come back… always – Thiago releases — I mean, this house will always be open to you.
— Thank you – thanks Aline once again.
— I thank you, Aline. You were fantastic, with all of us... I will be eternally grateful for... everything – praises Thiago, sincerely.
—No need to thank me. – Aline replies.
— My brother is lucky to have you by his side – vents Thiago.
— Icaro and I are not together, Thiago. He must have told you... – reveals Aline.
— No, he didn't tell me – retorts Thiago, surprised. —Sorry for the embarrassment.
— No, it's okay – Aline says smiling — I'm slowly getting over it... And I'm sure leaving will help a lot... to get my head on straight.
— If you need a friend, I'll be here – says Thiago.
— You can do it – says Aline, staring at Thiago. Silence takes over both of them, so she smiles and points to the stairs. —I'd better go upstairs and start packing my things.
—Want me to take you to the airport tomorrow? – asks Thiago, nervous.
— No need… I hate goodbyes – Aline refuses with a slight smile. Goes up some stairs being watched by Thiago who is showing all his sadness with the refusal, then turns around — See you around.
Aline climbs the stairs with her heart racing, crying in her throat and an almost uncontrollable urge to go back... And then? What happens next? Thinks the brunette reaching the top of the stairs. Well, whatever God wants , he concludes turning around... He finds only the empty hall. She stays still for a while and then walks back to her room, repeating to herself that it's the best thing to do.
***
Aline's farewell in front of the mansion was short, but very emotional for everyone present, from the employees to Maria Luísa who couldn't contain her tears and even hugged the Buarque de Melo heiress. Malú also clung to her aunt, who cried a lot when saying goodbye to the young woman. She then stops in front of Thiago, who keeps his face serious, extending his hand to Aline, who shakes it quickly, avoiding eye contact.
She gets into the family vehicle, being greeted by Reginaldo, who in a few minutes drives out of the mansion, leaving everyone behind. One by one, everyone goes back to their chores, except Thiago, who still spends some time looking at the gates that slowly close.
— She will come back, father – consoles Malú touching Thiago's hand, who turns around.
Despite his daughter using the word he loves most in the world, even that doesn't cheer him up. He hugs Malú and kisses the top of her head as he looks towards the gate in the hope that Aline will return at any moment, but that won't happen.
— And now? – Malú asks his father.
— Well, now I need to talk to you – Thiago replies, seriously.
— Oh no. Don't tell me you're leaving too – Malú mutters, annoyed.
—No young lady, I won't. I've been away from you for sixteen years... If there's one thing I don't want to get away from is – Thiago replies, laughing — But this conversation also involves your boyfriend.
— Benjamin?
— Unless you have another boyfriend – ironizes Thiago, receiving a punch in the ribs — Hey, young man, respect me, I'm your father.
—What do you want to talk to him about? – asks Malú, curious.
—Call him to come to the house and he'll find out. Or rather, call the whole group, including Ariadne – answers Thiago, enigmatically entering the mansion.
— Serious? Will you make me curious? – asks Malú walking behind his father.
— Let me think… yes – answers Thiago, smiling.
'Tell me, Dad... Dad?' Daddy? – begs Malú, stopping in front of Thiago.
— No blackmail, Maria Luísa – answers Thiago, touching the tip of his daughter's nose, who crosses her arms. He imitates her and comments — Did you know that when you act like that, you remind a lot of your mother?
— Serious? – asks Malú, surprised.
— Yes – Thiago answers walking — This even reminds me of a time when I took your mother to watch a rock opera show.
—You and Mom at a rock opera show? – asks Malú, suspiciously walking beside her father.
— Yes, by the way at that time she said she hated opera rock – answers Thiago.
—I know... – Malú comments in disbelief.
—Do you want to hear this story or not? – asks Thiago, staring at his daughter.
—You know I do. – Malú replies, hugging her father.
— Once upon a time, there was a beautiful rock princess named Anna… – Thiago starts walking up the stairs with his daughter.
***
The learning group and Ariadne gather in the Almeida family's ballroom, amazed by the beauty of the place, when Malú enters with her father and Maria Luísa, sitting down with them. Thiago smiles at everyone and then says, being interpreted by his daughter:
— I decided to gather everyone here, because as you know, I didn't win the senator elections and with that, the project was aimless. However, as I said... regardless of the elections, I would make the Institute happen and that's what I'd like to talk to all of you about. – he looks at his mother, who smiles and continues — I've been talking to my mother, Maria Luísa, and she's going to give up the small building, where the Assunção law firm started, to get the Institute off the ground. We have already submitted the paperwork to authorize the space for the creation of the Educational Institute, which will have eight classrooms, a small leisure area, administrative space... it's not much, but it's something to start with.
— Thiago, that's great – exclaims Ariadne, as moved as everyone else in the group.
— Thank my mother for having the idea of using the space for such a purpose – comments Thiago, smiling at Maria.
—No need to thank me. I am grateful for everything they have done and are doing for my granddaughter. – Maria replies, satisfied — There's only one but...
— Well, the building will undergo an evaluation before receiving a business license. We've already hired a team to do the heavier maintenance. To get the building ready on time, I've already made myself available to get my hands dirty, but...
—You need hands to help speed up the renovation of the building, right? – Ariadne asks, excited — If so, you can count on me.
— And with me – Maria, rolling up her sleeves.
— And with me too – says Malú, standing up.
“With me” Benjamin being accompanied by each of the students present to Thiago's delight.
—You mean you're also willing to make the Institute happen as quickly as possible? – asks Thiago, surprised.
The young people present smile among themselves and then, almost at the same time, shrink their thumb and little finger, positioning the three remaining fingers downwards, as well as Malú, Ariadne and Maria Luísa.
— Get to work – Thiago, smiling.
***
The structure of the building was in good condition, although there was no trace of paint, only the graffiti. The roof no longer exists, as well as the sign that previously had the huge name Assunção & Associados. The interior is also a real chaos, starting with the stairs that lead to the second one, with many steps missing. All the windows were broken, doors were smashed, some on the floor that don't remember the magnificent wooden floor that Maria Luísa remembered so well. The inner walls are also covered in graffiti and a lot of rubbish. The environment told them that it would be impossible for the building to be usable again, but that did not scare Thiago, Malú, Ariadne, Maria Luísa, Benjamin, and even less the Grupo de Libras, who rolled up their sleeves and started working on the site, as well as the maintenance.
Days turned into weeks, which turned into months, but everyone was so involved in the renovation that they didn't notice the time passing. Gradually, the building begins to come to life. Its peeling walls are now painted white and with graffiti done by some students. The entirely new roof, the wooden door that gives access to the building has been restored. The interior walls were repainted with drawings and murals they placed themselves. The stairs were replaced by an iron one and at the bottom, after much analysis, they managed to insert an elevator for wheelchair access. The floor received tactile flooring for visually impaired students who will also have the opportunity to learn at the Institute, all thanks to the partnerships that Thiago and Ariadne achieved during this period, from preschool teachers to professional and pre–university training.
The prospective students are finishing the arrangement of the classrooms, including Malú and Benjamin who are putting up posters, filling the shelves with books, organizing the new desks bought by Thiago in one of them. The couple is excited to finally see that dream come true, at least that's what they hope since Thiago and Ariadne went to find out if they received the approval or not for the operation.
“Do you think we got approval?” asks Benjamin as he finishes straightening the chairs.
—Absolutely. – Malú replies, excited. She smiles at her boyfriend and walks around the room adjusting one of the posters — You know... I was thinking here... There was an expression you didn't teach me in Libras...
"Like this? Malú, I taught you the ones that are essential for you”, replies Benjamin, trying to remember what he was missing.
— It's okay – Malú agrees, approaching her boyfriend — Anyway, I've already learned on my own...
“Okay, I'm sorry, but I can't think of any expression that's that important and I've forgotten... Well, then tell me what the expression was...” asks Benjamin.
Malú holds Benjamin's hand in hers, then slowly closes his ring finger and middle finger, while straightening his thumb, index and little finger, surprising the boy.
—Don't you think that expression is important... for us? – asks Malú. — I feel that the time has come to say... That I love you, Benjamin.
Benjamin smiles at the young woman and then raises his hand with the gesture Malú made.
—They're here. – Maria warns, entering the room.
The two young people look at each other excitedly, the big moment has arrived.
***
Thiago gets out of the vehicle, opening the door for Ariadne who thanks him, the two are surrounded by young people who are curious to know the answer. Both walk to the small courtyard of the building, watching the hopeful faces. They look at each other and then turn to the youths with the mysterious expression. Ariadne gets up with a paper in her hands then announces:
“We did it” she opens the paper with the building's operating license.
The students go wild, celebrating the long–awaited achievement by all present. Ariadne nods, calling attention to continue talking:
“Well, it will take some more time for us to actually work like a school, but we are getting closer”
Everyone understands that this is the first step towards the school that everyone wants. Maria Luísa approaches her son who hugs her:
—I'm sure they'll soon be able to get over this one more. – says Maria.
— So it is. They said that having a political sponsor would definitely help in the process – claims Ariadne.
— Well, you can try again – proposes the matriarch to her son.
— No, politics isn't for me, Mom – Thiago refuses, looking at Malú — Now I just want to enjoy the moments that life offers me.
—But we need someone who can take our project to the political sphere. – explains Ariadne.
— I have someone in mind – admits Thiago — Now, I just need to convince her, but first, I need to find out where she is.
—You're talking about Aline, aren't you? – asks Maria seriously.
— Yes – answers Thiago, crestfallen.
— Maybe you'll meet her tomorrow – Maria comments, looking at her granddaughter — Have you told her yet?
— Not yet – answers Thiago admiring his daughter — I want to make a surprise.
***
Malú wakes up, stretching until he sits on the bed. She looks at the nightstand taking the portrait of her with her mother. One year... Thinks the young woman with black hair, with melancholy, touching the photograph. He gets up and goes to the bathroom to get ready, when he comes back, he finds Adelaide fixing a beautiful light blue dress for the young woman to wear.
— Good morning, Miss Malú – greets the housekeeper smiling — Your father is waiting for you in the lobby.
— Good morning, Adelaide – returns Malú, touching her dress — Are we going somewhere?
— I don't know anything – Adelaide answers, evasively — Do you need help?
— No, you can, I'll get ready myself – Malú replies, watching the housekeeper leave her room.
The young woman gets ready and then goes down to the lobby, where she finds Thiago waiting for her with lilies in his hands. He gives it to his daughter, who looks at him in surprise:
— Thank you – thanks Malú, holding the small bouquet.
— You're welcome – answers Thiago — But they're not for you.
— No? – asks Malú without understanding.
— No, but you will help me to deliver them to a very special place – answers Thiago.
— Where? – asks Malú, curious.
— You'll see – answers Thiago, opening the door — Do you trust me?
—Yes. – Malú replies, accompanying his father.
***
The blue sky is the detail that completes that nostalgic scenario of that afternoon in Belo Horizonte. The sun is on its way to setting, making some who were in the cemetery go away. But Maria Luísa Braga de Almeida doesn't care about those people, nor about the fact that her father is holding her shoulder, now a person present in her life. She approaches her mother's headstone, with Lilies in her hands, flowers her mother grew. Her black hair touches her shoulders and her face is lowered as she places the flowers next to the tombstone, running her hand over the words, until she reaches where in the photograph of the one she loves: Anna Braga, her mother.
Tears stream down the face of the young woman who a year ago couldn't think about what her life would be like after that fateful day.
— Hi mommy – starts Malú with a sad smile — Are you okay? Well... A year without you... So many things happened that I don't even know where to start, but I think you already know everything from above. I know the last time I was here I said a lot of things to you, but I want you to know that I was just angry. Mommy, I thank you for everything you've done... I know I said I hated Thiago and I refused to promise that I would love him one day. But the truth is that you were right, he is a good father... He is still learning, but he is still a good father. He likes the same songs as you, he even went back to listening to them in the car... And he has a lot of stories about you. Dad says my voice is the same as yours, so I talk a lot, so I'll never forget what your voice sounded like. He's kind of fun, but he's terrible at telling jokes. Please, if possible, find a way to talk to him about it. Oh, he's also a little crazy, but he's a really nice and kind guy and he deserves someone who loves him like you did. Thanks to him, now we have the project that turned out beautiful. He and Aunt Aline, right? Well, and speaking of the aunt... She spoke to her mother, but it didn't go quite as she expected. But Aunt Liu accepted that only time will help her mother understand, in the meantime, she decided to go backpacking through South America. We talk every day, but you know, I miss her. Much missed... So, if you can also talk to her, I'd appreciate it. Ah, there's grandma too... She's not bad. It's pretty cool to take her to the places we used to go. Despite denying it, she loves Milk Shake, she's even been taking it secretly these days. And there's Benjamin, too. I talk so much about you to him that sometimes it seems that you already know each other... You would love to meet him, in person. Well, I just want you to know that you don't have to worry so much about me anymore, because I'm not alone against the world. That now I know that you left wonderful people to take care of me... And that I'm not afraid to move on, because I know you are by my side. I love you, Mom... And I miss you.
Malu lightly touches the headstone while crying. Thiago kneels beside his daughter smiling at Anna's photo. The wind blows, kissing their faces as they close their eyes, feeling the touch and heat of the sun that is already setting. When they open their eyes, they notice a silhouette appearing in the last rays of the sun.
Malú gets up putting her hand lightly over her eyes trying to see who is coming, then smiles running towards her. Thiago gets up, his heart racing, watching his daughter hug Aline, emotional. The two walk back to the tombstone being admired by Thiago, who doesn't hide his happiness in seeing her again.
—Hello. – greets Aline with a smile on her face.
— Hi… – Thiago replies, astonished. —How…how are you?
—I'm fine. – Aline replies awkwardly. She points to Thiago's suit — You and your suits...
— You and your shirts – retorts Thiago, pointing to Aline's torn shirt.
— How are you? – Ask the two who smile, embarrassed.
— Ladies first – Thiago gives his turn to Aline.
— I'm fine – Aline replies, pointing to Thiago — And you?
—I'm fine too... And how was your mother? – asks Thiago, curious.
—It didn't go as I planned. She didn't believe what I said – Aline replies, taking a deep breath — She just said that the best thing I can do with my life is disappear from hers.
— I'm sorry – asks Thiago, sincerely.
—Okay, I was the one who took too long to tell the truth. – Aline explains — But anyway, I traveled around and it was good for me. And I heard that the project is on the rocks.
— Well, it didn't go quite the way we planned, but we're hoping it works out – answers Thiago, smiling.
— I'm rooting for you – Aline comments.
'Do you have plans?' – asks Thiago, nervous — I mean, what do you intend to do from now on?
— I don't know… So far I've got an empty agenda – Aline answers, narrowing her eyes — Why the question?
— Well, we need a political representative – begins Thiago — And I think you are ideal for the next elections.
— I? – Aline asks, surprised — Me in politics? Why did you think that?
—Yourself, Aline. It was thanks to your role in my campaign that we came so close to winning. People pay attention and trust you.
— I don't know – Aline answers — It's a lot of responsibility.
— Please, Aline. We need you – asks Thiago.
— I don't know if I'll handle an election – alleges Aline, fearful.
— You won't be alone – guarantees Thiago — I'll be by your side... I can be your campaign manager
— All right – accepts Aline biting her lip — But on one condition.
—Anything. – says Thiago, excited.
—If you're really my campaign manager, you'll have to give up the suit. – Aline determines.
— Alright – accepts Thiago extending his hand to Aline — Welcome back, Aline.
— Thank you – thanks Aline, squeezing Thiago's hand.
— Let's go home? – Malú asks the two.
— Let's go – Thiago replies, looking at Aline.
—Let's go. – Aline replies, smiling at both of them.
The three walk towards the exit of the cemetery talking excitedly. Malú slows down admiring the two, then turns around and looks back one last time, finding her mother smiling at her.
— See you soon, Mom – whispers Malú, walking back toward what the future has in store for her, without fear of being happy .