Chapter 35 - Mariano (1)

I place my fork and knife parallel to each other and vertically on the plate after finishing my breakfast. Then I sip the last of my espresso while I glance at Riri to my right and think about the other night when I caught her outside watching murals late at night. I didn't expect to see her out there at all, but it ended up being a good surprise.

I enjoy spending time with her. And seeing her out of the house that night, looking eager, helped me decide that it's time I bring her with me. She needs to be out of the house more. I would go crazy if I were her.

There's a hint of a smile on her face as she eats. She glances my way for a second but doesn't say anything, and then she's concentrating on her food again with a little hum like she's listening to a song in her head. She's quite adorable, my Riri. I wait for her to finish, quietly sitting in my chair as I watch her.