Bonds of love

Chapter Two

Elena walked along the busy avenue of the city, anxious and, at the same time, full of hope. She was on her way to the big cosmetics company called "Max Industries". Ever since she learned about the job vacancy for the site's cleaning crew, her heart was filled with anticipation. Elena worked as a day laborer, however, in addition to earning little, she was working a few times a week, so she had been tirelessly looking for a new job opportunity, and that interview could be her chance.

When Elena arrived at the imposing Max Industries building, she was amazed by the grandeur and modernity of the place. She felt small in the face of the immensity of the facilities and the success that that enterprise represented.

Upon entering, Elena was greeted by a friendly receptionist, who guided her on the selection process for the vacancy of the cleaning team. She made her way to the waiting room and for a few minutes watched the constant movement of well-dressed employees, all engaged in their daily tasks.

Finally, it was Elena's turn to be called in for the interview. The recruiter, an elegant man with an air of authority, greeted her warmly and started the conversation. During the interview, Elena exposed her qualifications and previous experiences, emphasizing her dedication and commitment.

The recruiter seemed interested in her answers and, after a short pause, looked at her and said:

— Elena, I am impressed with your track record and your determination. We would like to offer you the opportunity to be part of our cleaning team.

Elena could hardly believe what she heard. A radiant smile took over her face as she thanked him emotionally for the opportunity. That job represented her financial stability and the chance to start over.

The woman felt a great relief and a feeling of happiness invaded her heart. She thanked the recruiter and discreetly wiped away the tears that threatened to fall from her eyes.

— Thanks for the opportunity, I promise I won't let you down. — Elena says firmly, extending her hand towards the man, who quickly took it and gave a quick handshake.

The man nods in agreement and asks Elena to go through HR to sign the contract. Elena would have a formal contract and all the benefits that a hired person could have. So, after leaving the recruiter's room, Elena went through HR and then left the company with a beautiful and happy smile on her face.

. . .

Elena was radiant. After months of searching for a steady job with a good salary, she finally got an opportunity at that well-renowned company. She had been hired to be part of the cleaning team, which, for many, might seem like a simple job, but for Elena, it represented much more than that. She soon realized the importance of the work she would perform on the cleaning team: keeping the environment organized and clean so that everyone could perform their duties in the best possible way.

Upon leaving the company, Elena walked with firm steps towards the house of her friend Giulia and her fiancé Heitor. She was anxious to share the good news with them and, especially, to pick up her son Peter, who was in the couple's care during the job interview.

As she walked through the busy streets of the city, Elena replayed in her mind all the difficulties she had faced in recent months. The anguish of uncertainty, financial pressure and the feeling of being stagnant professionally. But now all that was about to change. She had finally earned a chance to start over.

Upon arriving at Giulia and Heitor's house, Elena was warmly welcomed with a tight hug from her friend. She was already considered part of the family, and Giulia and Heitor were more than happy to help Elena.

— Elena, how nice to see you! How was the interview? — asked Giulia, anxious to know the outcome of that important moment in her friend's life.

Elena smiled excitedly and, holding Giulia's hands, said:

— I've been hired, Gio! Finally, an opportunity to start over and build a better future for Peter and me. — said Elena, happy and moved to finally be able to give her son a more comfortable life.

Giulia and Heitor celebrated with Elena. That was a victory not only for her, but also for everyone who was rooting for her success. The friendship between Elena and Giulia was marked by mutual support and encouragement, and Giulia always knew of her friend's drive and determination.

— This is wonderful, Elena! We are so proud of you! Now Peter will be able to have an even more fulfilled and happy mother — said Heitor, smiling with emotion.

Elena agreed, feeling the weight of Heitor's words. Her biggest impulse to seek a job market placement was, in fact, to provide a better life for her little son. She considered each obstacle overcome as a gift to Peter.

While waiting for Peter to wake up from his afternoon nap, Elena and Giulia talked about Elena's next steps in life. Giulia shared some tips on how to reconcile work with motherhood and organized herself to help her friend in caring for Peter.

As soon as Peter woke up and his little eyes lit up when he saw his mother, Elena couldn't contain her emotion and hugged him tenderly. It was as if that new job also represented a new phase of growth for her son.

— Mom got a job, my love! Let's have a life full of achievements and happiness. I'll be able to provide you with incredible things. — said Elena, her voice cracking.

Peter looked at his mother with a charming smile, and Elena felt even more motivated. With the support of Giulia and Heitor, she knew she would have the strength to face all challenges and build a better reality for her family.

The three friends celebrated that special moment together, strengthening their bonds and pledging to support each other every step of the way. After all, true friendship is capable of making all the difference in moments of overcoming and conquests. And that would be just one of the many victories that Elena would achieve alongside Giulia, Heitor and, of course, her beloved son Peter.