Phoenix
Part 19: The Quiet Fire
Albatross and Phoenix walk together toward the shop. The scent of the sea can still be felt in the air. Both of them are more relaxed than yesterday, yet their gazes occasionally slide toward one another with cautious curiosity.
Phoenix (smiling):
“Watch, the tomatoes are always the nicest on the right side.”
Albatross (gently, half aloud):
“Then I’ll choose the right one too.”
They laugh, their laughter light and natural.
They return home and cook together. Albatross watches Phoenix’s every movement as she stirs the pasta or measures out the spices. Even the silence is not awkward, but filled with emotion.
Phoenix (smiling, but a little uncertain):
“Albatross, would you like to watch a movie?”
Albatross (seriously, but gently):
“Yes… I’d like that.”
They begin choosing films. Phoenix notices that Albatross almost only suggests romantic movies.
Phoenix (questioningly):
“We could watch a horror movie too, if you like? Do you like horror movies?”
Albatross (in a deep, soft voice):
“Yes… I like them. I just wouldn’t want you to be scared.”
Phoenix:
“Me? I’m not afraid. I watch horror movies often.”
In the end, they choose the film “The Conjuring.”
During a frightening scene, Phoenix instinctively cuddles up to Albatross. The air tightens, the moment almost freezes.
Phoenix (embarrassed, whispering):
“I’m sorry… I didn’t mean to.”
Albatross (gently, calmly):
“It’s alright, Phoenix.”
Albatross (carefully, in a soft voice):
“Would you like a little wine? It might help you calm down.”
Phoenix (timidly, embarrassed):
“Just… a little.”
The drink slowly eases the tension. Eventually, Phoenix falls asleep on Albatross’s shoulder. The man sits quietly, watching as her face becomes peaceful, her breathing slow. A gentle, soft smile appears on his face.
Carefully, he lifts Phoenix and places her in the guest room. When he lays her on the bed, he notices a small notebook. For a while, he reads it gently, respectfully, without disturbing her sleep.
Phoenix’s emotions fill the pages: pain, distrust, yet a pure, childlike heart. Albatross understands more and more how special and fragile the girl truly is.
Albatross (to himself, whispering):
“She… sees the good side in everyone… even when her world is difficult. And I… I will protect her more than ever.”
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