Chapter 9. Great Discoveries

Theo

Leaving Juliano alone was a wise decision. Talking to him when he's angry would only hurt us more, and I was tired. I decided to go to the beach again, feel the sea and the fresh wind, see people, have a drink.

I was leaving the hotel when I ran into Rodrigo. He was wearing light shorts and a t-shirt, showing his broad shoulders. He carried a pink beach bag on his side, matching his bucket perfectly.

"Theo, hey!" He ran up to me as soon as he saw me. "Are you going to the beach? Can we go together? Where's your partner?"

I laughed at his excitement, and he already linked our arms and led me toward paradise.

"Juliano is a bit stressed, so I decided to leave him alone."

Despite my cheerful tone, the underlying sadness didn't escape my new friend. He squeezed my hand tighter before speaking.

"I think we need a moment to talk about our men. Come, I'll buy some beers and snacks. Let's get drunk tonight and pour our hearts ou