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Dad, I support you. I always felt something was missing from our family, and now I understand what it was. What was it, daughter? Purpose. We had money, status, but no greater purpose. Rodrigo smiled at his daughter, proud of her maturity. And you, Alberto, can learn to work differently. Alberto was visibly conflicted. On the one hand, he admired his father’s courage. On the other, he feared the financial consequences. Dad, I need time to process all of this. I understand, son. Changes like this aren’t easy for anyone.
Dr. Velázquez returned to the room to inform him that Rodrigo could be discharged in a few days, provided he continued to receive medical care. Doctor, what caused the state I was in? Medically speaking, it was a psychogenic episode. His mind, overloaded by emotional conflicts, simply shut down as a protective mechanism. And if Manu hadn’t appeared, it’s hard to say, maybe you would have woken up eventually, or maybe not. What we do know is that his presence was fundamental to your recovery.
Manuel, still processing everything that had happened, took Rodrigo’s hand. “Rodri, are you sure you want to give me half of the company? I’m just a bricklayer. Manu, you’re the most honest man I know, and integrity is exactly what our company needs. But I don’t understand administration or finance. I’ll teach you the way you taught me about construction, about honesty, about being human.” Patricia watched the conversation between the two men and felt a mixture of pride and apprehension.
Proud to see her husband rediscovering his values. Apprehensive about the changes that were to come. Mr. Manuel, Patricia said, I hope you understand the responsibility you’re taking on. Ma’am, I understand perfectly, and I promise to honor your Rodrigo’s trust. And what about your house? Is the demolition completed yet? Not yet, ma’am, but don’t worry, I’ll find another place for you to live. Rodrigo stirred in bed. What a demolition, what a house. Daniela explained to her father about Manuel’s housing situation.
Manu, you’re going to live with us until we find a permanent solution. Rodrigo said without hesitation. Rodri, it’s not necessary. Of course. And besides, I’m going to cancel the demolition of that building, but I’ll sort out the contracts and the investors. We’re going to transform the building into quality social housing. It will be our first project together. Alberto was increasingly concerned about his father’s impulsive decisions. Dad, can’t you just cancel million-dollar contracts like that? I can, and I will.
The money we’ll lose by canceling the project, we’ll recoup by creating something much better. In the following days, as Rodrigo finished his recovery in the hospital, Manuel visited him daily, and the two began planning the company’s transformation. They brought architectural plans into the room, discussed new sustainable building technologies, and researched profit-sharing models that had worked for other companies. “Remember when we talked about building homes that were beautiful and functional, but at prices ordinary people could afford?” Rodrigo asked.
“I remember. You used to say that good architecture shouldn’t be the privilege of the rich, but the time has come to put that into practice.” Daniela actively participated in the discussions, contributing ideas about sustainability and social responsibility that she had learned at university. “Dad, can we create a vocational training program for young people from underprivileged communities? Excellent idea, Manu, what do you think? I think your daughter took after her father when it came to good ideas,” Manuel said, smiling. Alberto also began to get involved in the conversations, although still with reservations.
If we’re really going to do this, we need a solid financial plan. It’s no use having good intentions if we can’t pay the bills. You’re right, Alberto. We’re going to need a financial consultant who understands social business. Patricia, surprisingly, has also become interested in the project. Rodrigo, may I suggest we involve other wives of entrepreneurs? Many of them have training and experience, but don’t have a place to apply it. Of course, we’re going to create an advisory board with people who share our values.
Dr. Velázquez followed Rodrigo’s transformations with professional fascination. Mr. Rodrigo, I have never seen such a complete and rapid recovery. Not only is he back to his previous state, but he seems better than before. Doctor, I feel reborn, literally. And Don Manuel continues to be a very positive presence. His friendship is truly inspiring. On the day of his discharge, Rodrigo insisted that Manuel accompany him home. “Manu, I want you to see our house, and I want Patricia to prepare the guest room for you.”
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