Chapter 26

Summary

• The protagonist wakes up to the familiar sounds of breakfast but realizes it's not Gran making it, and she is in Gran's bed.
• The protagonist puts on Gran's housecoat and slippers and goes to the kitchen where she encounters Juan Manuel making breakfast.
• Juan Manuel has already shopped for groceries and is preparing eggs, intrigued by the crumpets which he finds unusual.
• They work together in the kitchen, a dynamic that feels strange to the protagonist without Gran there, but they manage efficiently.
• The protagonist appreciates Juan Manuel's cleanliness and enjoys the flavorful, spicy eggs he prepares.
• Juan Manuel talks about his morning FaceTime with his family, sharing details about his relatives and cultural traditions from back home.
• He expresses a sense of closeness to his family despite the distance, which resonates with the protagonist who thinks of Gran and her father.
• The protagonist is interrupted by a phone call from Mr. Snow and has to excuse herself from the breakfast table to answer it.
• Mr. Snow apologizes for a misunderstanding and invites the protagonist back to work when she's ready, expressing relief when she suggests returning the next day.
• Mr. Snow addresses concerns about the protagonist being perceived as odd by her colleagues, assuring her of her value and important role at the hotel.
• Juan Manuel also receives confirmation from Mr. Snow that his job is secure, and they discuss the resolution to his work permit situation.
• Both the protagonist and Juan Manuel are happy to still have their jobs and are left with a free day ahead of them.
• The chapter ends with the protagonist feeling a renewed zest and asking Juan Manuel if he likes ice cream, suggesting the possibility of a leisurely day together.