From my beginnings as Master XXXII

Good morning, Fran. How's everything?

I handed him the gym bag.

- Fine, Carlos, I'm better. I know you've been worried, but I think I've made a mature decision and done something good…

- I'm glad, dear, but… you don't seem very convinced…

- It's for the best: if you think about what's good for others, you feel better…

- As long as it doesn't hurt you…

- I'll be fine.

- And I'll always be by your side.

I kissed him on the forehead, and he hugged me with all his affection. When we parted, he had tears in his eyes, but I didn't want to pry into his business.

- I'll take care of some things and head to the village. I have the bag in the car, with your gym clothes, you take care of it… You can pass the jockstrap to Pablo, the one from the café…

- No way! You've already done enough: since the other day, I haven't paid for coffee, and he treats me like a god… I don't even want to think about it… I'll wash your clothes, and on Monday, they'll be spotless, as always, and complete!

And he made an exaggerated face of disgust while laughing heartily. I laughed with him.

- Anyway, I want to start preparing the house for Manu's party, paint, tidy up a bit…

- Cover up the stains that prove the crime…

He said it without bitterness, with a certain irony. I couldn't help but blush.

- Sometimes you're too smart…

He smiled affectionately at me.

- Anyway, how's the catering going?

- Fine, I'm between two options, we have time, and I've asked for the menus. Next week, you can choose.

- You'll do it perfectly, I trust your judgment completely. I'll take care of the wine personally. Beer and soft drinks, they will.

I kissed him again on the forehead and entered the office. I called Álvaro.

- Good morning, boss!

I noticed his smile on the other end of the phone and through the wall.

- I'm heading to the village this morning: I need to find a painter to cover up the puppy's messes before Laura arrives. Meanwhile, I'll organize some supplies for Manu's party. On Sunday, I'll return at noon and have lunch at your place. Will you be okay?

- Of course.

- I love you.

I noticed another smile.

- I know, Carlos. I'm happy.

We hung up. One of the things I love most about Álvaro is that he talks little and gets to the point.

I arrived at the village at breakfast time. As I expected, Marcial, the painter, was there with his coffee.

- Good morning, Marcial. How's everything?

- Ah, Mr. Comas, everything's fine, lots of work these days, summer is coming, and all the outsiders want to fix up their houses.

- Well, that's why I'm here, and to be honest, I'm in a bit of a hurry…

- Sorry, Mr. Comas, you're a good customer, but I've committed to something, and you know I ...