The Ultimate Return of Carlos

73

Carlos crouched beside Molly, his hand gently stroking the cat’s soft fur as the weight of the moment pressed against his chest. The cat whimpered slightly, sensing the tension, and he let out a soft grunt, as though the simple act of bidding farewell to the cat tore at his insides. Molly’s eyes reflected the warmth and the connection they’d shared in such a brief time, but Carlos knew he had no choice but to leave.

“Take care of her, Edith,” he said, his voice thick with sincerity. He rose slowly, turning toward the door. “And thank you. For everything.”

Edith watched him, her arms crossed but her gaze soft. “I didn’t do it for you,” she replied flatly, but the underlying kindness in her voice betrayed her. She had risked more than she would ever admit, and Carlos understood that even though she claimed no attachment, there was a bond between them now. She had saved his life, and even though she acted like it didn’t matter, it clearly did. With one final nod, Carlos pushed open the d