Puzzled, she inquired as she sifted through the papers, “What are these?”

“Do you know Ashford?” Cristian asked.

Pondering for a moment, Fernanda replied, “Ashford… that rings a bell. Yes, that’s where Robert is from!”

“Yes, these are old newspapers from Ashford,” Cristian said. “These papers feature articles about Robert and also about your mother. She was known as Gracie before marrying your father and becoming Lacie. You’ll find both names here.”

Fernanda nodded. “Got it.”

“These articles cover some past events that might give you more insight into Robert and your mother, potentially aiding you in dealing with family matters,” Cristian added.

Fernanda looked up appreciatively. “I see what you’re getting at. Thanks, Cristian.”

These newspapers were decades old. Despite attempts to preserve them, they had yellowed and become fragile, each imperfection marking the passage of time.

Cristian had gathered a substantial collection of them, all neatly bundled in a box. His effort to procure these relics was evident. Despite his busy schedule, Cristian had made time to help her find them, and Fernanda was truly grateful for his assistance.

He responded with a soft smile. “You’re welcome. No need for thanks between us. Take your time; perhaps you’ll uncover something interesting.”

Fernanda nodded in acknowledgment and spent her afternoon at Cristian’s home, sifting through the newspapers. Cristian respected her focus, quietly working on his laptop across the room, which created a serene atmosphere.

The silence was broken now and then by the crisp rustle of newspaper pages and the soft clink of Cristian’s glass on the coffee table, adding a homely touch to the stillness.

Sunlight poured through the expansive windows, softened by sheer curtains, casting a gentle glow on the sleek, light gray flooring.

A light breeze made the curtains flutter softly.

At one point, Fernanda looked up, her attention shifting from the print to Cristian.

He was comfortably settled in an armchair, relaxed but maintaining an upright posture with his legs crossed. His attire was as crisp as the newspaper she held.

With his chin slightly lowered, he was engrossed in his laptop, his expression focused and serious.

A stray lock of hair partially covered his eye, adding a hint of mystery to his composed appearance.

His hands moved with grace, one navigating the laptop’s touchpad, the other holding a crystal glass. The pronounced veins on his hand contrasted with his delicate fingers, almost too perfect to seem real. As he leaned to set down his glass, his eyes lifted, locking with Fernanda’s.

In that moment, everything seemed to stop. He blinked and gave her a knowing smirk. “Satisfied with what you saw?”

Caught off guard, Fernanda responded without thinking, “Yeah.” It wasn’t until after she replied that she realized she wasn’t certain whether Cristian was referring to the newspapers or himself.

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