Salva

Salva is just one of the hundreds of fast-food delivery drivers who roam the streets of any city each night, yet he has some characteristics that set him apart from most. He is Spanish, over thirty years old, has a newborn daughter, and is studying for competitive exams in his spare time. Balancing these responsibilities is no easy feat, but Salva does it with a quiet determination that keeps him going through the long nights.

One night, while delivering an order in a luxury housing development, something unusual happens. As he walks back to his scooter, he hears a faint voice calling out. Looking around, he sees a woman on a balcony, frankly waving at him. She explains that she’s locked herself out of her house and desperately needs her help. Without hesitation, Salva assesses the situation. The task seems simple enough: jump the fence, retrieve a ladder from the garden shed, and hand it up to her.

Salva’s heart races a little; it’s not every night he has to perform a small act of heroism. He knows the importance of staying focused, whether it’s studying for his exams or navigating the city’s maze-like streets. With a deep breath, he carefully climbs over the fence, trying not to damage the well-manicured lawn beneath him. As he walks through the garden, he takes in the sight of the lavish property, a stark contrast to his own modest living conditions.

He finds the ladder easily and carries it over to the balcony. The woman, clearly relieved, thanks him profusely as she climbs down. Salva gives her a nod and a brief smile before heading back to her scooter. His shift is not over yet, and there are still plenty of deliveries to make before he can go home to his daughter and her books. Despite the long hours and the challenges, he faces, Salva feels a sense of satisfaction. Tonight, he wasn’t just a delivery driver; he was a helper, a problem-solver, a reminder that even in the bustling anonymity of the city, small acts of kindness can make a big difference.