Hidden Behind a Bookshelf

"Mister Goran?" Kano said in a low voice while tugging at Goran's jacket.

"Huh? Ah! Kano!" Goran exclaimed as he was pulled out of his wistful trance.

"Was she Medium Sis' Mother?" Kano inquired.

"Medium Sis?"

Kano chuckled lightly and clarified, "That's what everyone calls Sister Jean."

The explanation and Kano's cheeky expression brought some mirth into Goran's drooping facade. He exhaled loudly and answered, "You're right. This is Nyla, she was Jean's mother and my wife."

"She looked beautiful," Kano admitted wholeheartedly.

"She WAS beautiful. Inside and out," Goran's voice wavered as he spoke. He extended his hand towards the painting and caressed the woman's face with shaking fingers.

"She was so beautiful..."

"Who painted this portrait?" Kano interrupted as he noticed Goran descending into a depressing spiral.

"I did."

"I didn't know you painted?!" Kano vocalised in incredulity.