erika is a woman who maintains internal relationships…Ver more

She was the first person in Rio Seco to show her kindness. “Thank you,” she replied softly. “Why did you help me?” Cole shrugged. “Because I know what it’s like to be treated like garbage just because you don’t have money. I’ve lived that my whole life.” They walked away from the market together. Naya bit into one of the apples, savoring the sweetness that seemed even more delicious after the bitterness of rejection.

“My name is Naya,” she finally said. “Cole,” he replied, touching the brim of his hat in a polite gesture. “Welcome to Rio Seco, though it’s not exactly a welcoming place.” “I can see that.” Naya smiled sadly. “I tried to buy a few things at the store yesterday, and the owner practically kicked me out. Old Gordon. Yeah, he’s a grouch. Most people here are.”

They believe that having a little more money makes them better people. They arrived at a solitary tree on the outskirts of town where there was some shade. Cole sat on the ground and pointed to a spot next to it. “You have somewhere to stay,” he asked with genuine concern. “I built a little shelter with what I could find,” Naya admitted.

It’s not much, but it’s enough. Cole nodded in understanding. He himself lived in an abandoned shed behind the stable. If you need help reinforcing it, I can lend a hand. The sandstorms are terrible around here, and your shelter needs to be strong. Naya felt something warm expand in her chest.

I didn’t even know this man. But he was offering help without expecting anything in return. “Why are you being so kind to me?” he asked directly. Cole was silent for a moment, staring at the horizon, because I know loneliness. I lost my parents when I was a child. I grew up alone, working wherever I could, sleeping wherever I could. People looked at me with pity or contempt, but never with respect.