Pedro motioned for Adrianna to come sit.

The room was cool and quiet, and the afternoon light gently streamed in through the glass window.

Adrianna stepped toward his table. However, after a brief moment, she said, “I would rather stand,” and so she remained standing, her posture straight, her long black hair sleeping on her back.

She looked more beautiful than when he saw her previously.

Pedro raised an eyebrow. “Very well,” he replied. “Then, why are you here?”

Taking a breath, Adrianna began, “My name is Adrianna—” Pedro cut in sharply, “Adrianna Perez.” His voice levelled all forms of formalities, more like acknowledging the familiarity between them as he...