ALICE

We ate in silence. Thrice, I caught the boy giving sideway glances at me. Curiosity dance in his eyes. I took a mouthful bite of the chicken. Hunger is overtaking my soul. I stuff two rice cups in my mouth. Swallowed it all in one gulp.

He’s still studying me.

I hasten my teeth to chew. Taking advantage of his almost entranced state to eat his share. Directly opposite us, the groundkeeper chuckled. His snow caked hair is moistening. I fetch the towel he hang in my chair and wipe it for him.

“My, thank you.” Groundkeeper flash me his warm crooked smile. I urged my cheeks to stretch....