The Fate of Martín (Part XVI)

Those precarious and minimal certainties of Martín were affected by matters beyond his control, which led him to make decisions that did not align with what he had already resolved.

He had decided to overcome everything related to his past: his friends (who had abandoned him), his ex-wife's family, relationships with his former job, everything. But that past did not forget him, and every so often it came back, in one way or another.

One Monday, he received a notification at work from the Court of Accounts, informing him of the conclusion of a summary that found him guilty of several administrative offenses and imposed a sanction: the impossibility of exercising functions for the State for the next five years. This fact unsettled and angered him: he had never been informed of this procedure, had not testified, had not been notified of charges, and therefore could not formulate a defense. He decided to do nothing, but it seemed unfair to him that they continued to humiliate him and affect his honor. Sooner or later, someone would throw that sanction in his face. It wasn't that he was interested in working for the State again, but carrying an inability seemed too much.

He asked for permission at work and traveled to the state capital for a meeting with a visiting judge from the Court, who gave him an appointment. There, he told him what was happening and what had been notified to him. The judge listened and said:

- I suggest you appeal, you have everything to gain. But don't settle for that, file a civil lawsuit and ask for compensation, for unjustified dismissal and for affecting your honor and dignity. From the simple reading of your background, it is evident that there was malice on the part of the administration, and it is only fair that you be compensated. I remember the situation that affected you very well, and clearly, your professional honor was affected, and as a lawyer, you cannot let that pass.

Martín was going to appeal, yes or yes, but he was not sure about doing the second thing. It would take time and money, which he lacked.

In the following days, he dedicated himself to preparing an appeal, which he presented within the deadline. But the second thing bothered him, he wanted to do it, but he didn't want to take a wrong step.

Breaking the unwritten pacts with José Tomás, he dared to call him just after presenting the appeal to the Court of Accounts.

With his stomach tight, he called him, and José Tomás answered:

- Hello, sorry to bother you, but I need to talk to you. You are the only person I trust to make a decision.

José Tomás, surprised, replied that they should meet for coffee after 7:00 pm, near his workplace.

He arrived about five minutes before, and José Tomás about three minutes after the appointed time. They greeted each other with affection and a bit of nervousness.

Martín found it hard to look him in the f...