SOME SLIPPERS, AT LAST (1/4)

Madrid, 2025.

- Alright, let's see... - Mario made a pause - in this letter, you explain that, as long as...

Rubén, on his knees, lifted his face, looked at his master, who had changed his life since their first meeting.

"It's just about taking a close look at you. Don't make a big deal out of it or imagine anything else" was the warning. On that occasion, Mario let out some fairly crude comments about the physical appearance of the one who was applying to serve him.

Now, months later...

- As long as I beg You to consider not abandoning me - Rubén whispered.

- Listen, I've read what's written here - Mario began to explain. He opened the wooden box, a gift from Rubén, and pulled out the folded letter.

Rubén continued to stare at Mario's sneakers, which he adored licking and kissing.

- You send me this - Mario waved the letter in his hand - to convince me that you would do anything to keep serving me. Is that right?

Rubén just nodded.

- Look at me - Mario grabbed him by the chin and lifted his face. That mix of fear, uncertainty, desire, desperation on Rubén's face... -. You know what? With this letter, you've only accelerated what was going to happen anyway.

It was as if Rubén's blood had frozen in his veins.