Story – The magic of Late Afternoon

Story serial
The magic of Late Afternoon
A Gentle Clash (Episode – 3B)

Sophie quickly picked up the two kittens, holding them close. She kissed their tiny faces, gently stroking their heads.
In her arms, they calmed down—resting quietly against her soft warmth.
Without looking at Adrian, she said —
“Did you hurt my Laltu and Bintu?”
Adrian hesitated.
“No… I mean… I just don’t like cats.”
Sophie looked at him this time.
“You know how much they mean to me? I can’t tolerate even the slightest neglect toward them.”
Adrian lowered his voice.
“I’m sorry… I didn’t know.”
Sophie paused for a moment… then sighed softly.
“It’s okay. Just don’t hurt them again. It would really hurt me.”
Adrian quickly replied—
“No… I would never do anything that hurts you.”
A faint smile touched Sophie’s lips.
“Good.”
She sat down and asked—
“So… what would you like to have?”
Adrian shook his head.
“No thanks. Your company is enough.”
Sophie burst into laughter. Adrian looked confused.
“Why are you laughing?”
“You’re so naive.”
“Why?
“Does company fill your stomach?”
Sophie smiled—
“Of course not.”
Then she added — “My parents aren’t home. My sister will be late too.
It’s just me and my grandmother.
So tell me — what would you like to eat? I’ll make it.”
Adrian stayed silent.
“Alright,”
Sophie said, standing up,
“I’ll bring coffee.”
Then she paused at the door.
“But…”
Adrian looked up.
“But what?”
Sophie smiled playfully—
“I’m not leaving my Laltu and Bintu with you.”
She gently picked them up and walked out of the room.
Adrian watched her go…quietly.

• To be continued – story (Episode – 4A)
• “Next episode coming on – Saturday”