Then toward her.
"You shouldn't have to start over because somebody didn't like you asking a question."
She felt her throat tighten.
For several seconds, she remained quiet.
Then answered.
"Sometimes getting back takes longer than getting knocked down."
He considered.
Then nodded.
After a moment, he said something that made her laugh.
"Well, when you get there, don't forget the people who knew you before you were famous."
She shook her head.
"Go finish your sandwich."
He grinned.
Then left.
She reopened the language book.
But her eyes were wet.
The billionaire rarely visited the tower after seven in the evening.
He preferred arriving early.
Attending executive meetings.
Reviewing major contracts.
Then departing for private dinners or his residence outside the city.
When he did stay late, the atmosphere changed.
Security became more visible.
Managers checked conference rooms twice.
Assistants hurried through corridors.
And cleaning staff were instructed to remain out of the executive areas until his meetings concluded.
The woman first saw him in person during her fifth month.
She was pushing a cleaning cart near the service elevators when several executives walked through the hallway.
The billionaire led them.
His silver hair was perfectly combed.
His navy suit immaculate.
His expression impatient.
He was speaking sharply to a younger manager.
"I don't want explanations. I want the problem solved."
The manager nodded.
"Yes, sir."
The billionaire continued.
"We've had fourteen months to close this agreement."
The younger man swallowed.
"Legal is working on the final language."
The billionaire waved one hand.
"Then tell legal to finish working."
They passed the cleaner without looking at her.
She stopped beside the wall to let them through.
The billionaire's shoulder brushed close to the cleaning cart.
He glanced briefly toward it.
Then frowned.
"Why is equipment in this corridor?"
The younger manager immediately turned.
"Sorry, sir."
He looked toward the woman.
"Move it."
She nodded.
"Of course."
She moved the cart into the designated service recess.
The group continued.
The billionaire did not notice her face.
Did not ask her name.
And had no idea she once translated the agreement he was discussing.