“But she always makes time for breakfast. says it’s the most important meal because it sets the tone for your whole day. She smiled, remembering her mother’s words. That’s why we make sure you get breakfast, too. The rain continued to pour outside as they sat in comfortable silence, Nia sipping her tea while Elias ate small, careful bites of toast.
The kitchen clock ticked steadily, marking the peaceful moments. When the rain finally began to ease, Elias walked near to the door. But instead of their usual goodbye, he reached into his pocket and pulled out a small white envelope. For bus money, he said softly, pressing it into her hand. “The weather’s getting colder, and you shouldn’t have to walk everywhere.
” “Oh, but I don’t mind walking.” Nia started to protest, but Elias had already closed her fingers around the envelope. “Please,” he said. “It would make an old man feel better.” After Nia left, Elias watched through his window until her small figure disappeared around the corner. Then he picked up his phone and dialed a number he knew by heart.
