While Kelly was learning to work in the fields, Alfredo apologized for Sara and Taia’s behavior.

— I consider Sara both a friend and a sister by blood, — said Kelly. — And I’ll do my best to make her proud of me.

Alfredo smiled and asked:

— Kelly, where exactly are you from?

Kelly gave an internal shake of her head, thinking:

Does he really think I’m that naive? I hope he’s not interested in me… otherwise, Sara will convince Grandma to give me to him as a “gift”!

— Nooooo! — Kelly blurted out, shuddering. — Never in my life!

Alfredo frowned:

— What’s wrong, Kelly? Why can’t you talk about it?

— My parents left me with my aunt because they didn’t want me around. I didn’t want to marry an old pervert… they only wanted the old man’s money. My aunt mistreated me, so I ran away and promised myself I would never say the name of my hometown again. — Kelly said, tears streaming down her face.

Alfredo hugged her gently:

— I’m sorry, Kelly… don’t cry. I won’t ask where you’re from again.

— Thank you, sir, — Kelly said, sobbing. — If it weren’t for my promise, I would tell you. But my word must be honored.

Suddenly, a familiar voice sounded behind them:

— What’s going on here, Alfredo? — asked Mayo, approaching.

— Nothing serious, Mr. Mayo, — Alfredo replied, trying to stay composed.

— I hope so. Don’t make me dismiss you, — said Mayo with an awkward smile.

Alfredo rolled his eyes:

Does he really think he’s better than me just because he became chief guard so quickly?

— Mr. Mayo, — Kelly said, still emotional, — I’m not his girlfriend.

— Good thing, — Mayo replied coldly. — My last girlfriend didn’t end well. Now wipe your tears and get back to work.

Sara approached, smiling:

— Good morning, Mr. Mayo. Oh, Kelly, why are you crying?

— I’m fine now, don’t worry, sister Sara, — Kelly replied, trying to hold back her emotions.

Mayo looked at Sara, curious:

— You two are sisters? I didn’t know you had a sister.

— You don’t know everything about me ;) — Sara replied with a mysterious smile.

— You’re right, — Mayo said. — Then we can meet at the sunflower field at three o’clock this afternoon.

— Sounds great! But I’ll need Grandma’s permission, — said Sara.

— I’ll be waiting, — Mayo replied confidently.

Alfredo watched the scene, thoughtful:

And I’m not even allowed to date… what a joke!