Chapter 24

Despite everything, he didn’t ask for further explanations. He had the vague sensation that every word from Elias was a rarity to be safeguarded like an ancient parchment. That they needed protection from even a simple gust of wind that could crush them and make them disappear forever.

But there was something he needed to know. “Do you…are you going to stay here today?”

Elias, who was still smacking his lips after drinking his first espresso, looked at Thomas suspiciously.

“Are you already giving me marching orders? Shit, you’re fast,” he said softly, putting the cup in the sink a little too roughly. “Look, I won’t suffocate you, but Jesus, at least let’s take the time to have coffee together.”

Thomas stopped him by taking his wrist before Elias could leave the kitchen.