Chapter 14: Sophia arrived
Adam’s smile seemed genuine. He released his guilt. The possessive emotions that had plagued him moments before he let them go. He came to terms with the circumstances. A feeling of peace descended upon him. He gave Sophia a smile.
"Actually I haven’t made anything yet," he said. His voice was steady.
A bright smile lit up Sophia’s face when she heard this. Her nervousness seemed to vanish.
"So that means you can take my noodles," she said. She seemed genuinely pleased.
"Okay then. I’ll bring them right now." Before Adam could react she turned and hurried away. She went back to her own apartment. A moment later she returned.
She was holding a large bowl in both hands. Steam was rising from it. She held it carefully with two oven mitts. She came back to Adam’s door and stopped.
"These are very hot," she said. "Let me put them inside for you."
Adam’s neck began to flush. He felt ashamed. His apartment had never been visited by a girl. No one had ever been invited to his house. But he could smell the hot noodles.
The aroma of the broth and spices was delicious. His stomach rumbled once more. Hunger was a strong force. He moved away from the entrance. He fully opened it. He bowed his head a little. It was a shy and respectful gesture. "Welcome to my home," he said softly.
Sophia smiled. She entered cautiously. At the doorway, she removed her slippers. She surveyed Adam’s compact apartment. She looked around the one room.