After a minute or two, he hears footsteps coming down the hall towards him and he looks up just in time for his mother to come into view, a concerned look on her face. “Are you okay? You’ve been acting odd all day.” She asks quietly. “I’m fine.” He responds automatically. His mother gives him a small frown before sitting next to him.

“Are you sure? Your father noticed that something was wrong.” She adds quietly. Alvaro frowns slightly before nodding. “I’m fine, mom.” He says quietly. “I know, sweetheart.” His mother replies, gently stroking his hair with her free hand.

After a few more minutes pass by in silence,...