Chapter 25

Summary

• The protagonist reflects on the little things in life while walking home, where a friend awaits—an uncommon occurrence since her grandmother's death.
• Upon arriving home, the protagonist is greeted by Juan Manuel who's eagerly waiting for news regarding the capture of Rodney. He tends to her shoes and hugs her, much to her surprise.
• Juan Manuel sets up a humble dinner with remnants from Olive Garden, which touches the protagonist, and they prepare to enjoy their meal together.
• The protagonist receives a phone call from Charlotte asking about the arrest of Rodney and learns that everything went well, reinforcing her hope.
• Dinner is paused when Charlotte's news that Rodney was caught prompts Juan Manuel to express concern for the protagonist's safety. His scars remind her of the violence he's experienced.
• Juan Manuel explains the abuse he suffered at Rodney's behest, revealing a cycle of violence and fear that affected both him and the protagonist.
• The protagonist is interrupted by another phone call, this time with Detective Stark, who announces that Rodney has been charged and they need the protagonist's help.
• Juan Manuel lights a candle, signifying hope, and they enjoy the meal, recounting events and sharing laughter over misunderstandings at the coffee shop.
• As they finish their meal and clean up, they are visited by Charlotte, Mr. Preston, and Detective Stark, who come bearing good news.
• There is confrontation and confusion at the door with Mr. Rosso, revealing false accusations against the protagonist on the news.
• Detective Stark clarifies that the protagonist is innocent and requires her co-operation in Rodney's case for a conclusive resolution.
• Juan Manuel provides key insight into Rodney and Mr. Black's criminal activities, offering to be a witness and implicating an immigration lawyer in fraudulent activities.
• Charlotte offers legal assistance to Juan Manuel, and reassurances are given that both he and the protagonist will keep their jobs at the hotel.
• After the detective leaves, an intimate moment of gratitude and understanding unfolds, where the protagonist forms stronger bonds with her new friends.
• Mr. Preston reveals a past romantic engagement with the protagonist's grandmother, uncovering deep history and emotional connections.
• An emotional story about the protagonist's grandmother unfolds, discussing her past, her suffering, and ultimately, the protagonist's role in her peaceful passing.
• The protagonist has an internal dialogue reflecting on the recent events, her actions, and her feelings of both loss and growing companionship.