Twenty-six-year-old Solono learned early in his childhood that he preferred the company of animals. They were his sanctuary. Everyone knew that if Solono was missing, he could be located in the barn. Sometimes he would sleep alongside the animals as if he was one of them. He felt he had a bond with the animals. So, it wasn't uncommon for him to disappear only to be located there hours later. At times he would hear Louis summoning for him. He'd ignore him. Minutes later a servant would appear advising him of Louis' request. Maria, on the other hand, would sprint to the barn and yell his name. This day was no different.
"Solono!" Maria yelled.
He could hear her voice getting closer and closer as he sat on the dirt floor of the barn untangling the fur of the sheep that was resting next to him.
"Where are you? I have something I want to share with you."
"I'm here, near the haystack." a disinterested Solono responded.
Maria ran over to him and propped her weight on her toes and twirled like a ballerina. He noticed her high cheekbones from the huge smile on her face. It didn't take long before she was frowning from the stench from the animals.
"What is so important Maria?"
Maria could not conceal her enthusiasm.
"Michael, my tennis instructor, invited me to his house for dinner tonight. I'm so excited, yet so nervous."
Being overprotective of his naïve little sister, Solono was concerned about her exciting news. He knew Michael to be a very handsome and fit man. His 6'4, 180lb frame, with curly black hair that sat in a ponytail, was very pleasant in a lot of women's eyes. He often observed the maids delighting in the sight of Michael. It wasn't a secret that he relished the attention he received.
Solono frowned. "What did Father Louis say?"
"He's alright with it I guess." Maria said.
"If he thinks it's okay then you have my blessings." Maria's beam and excitement quickly turned to a pout.
"I don't know why I thought you'd be excited for me. Sorry for wasting your time. I'll let you get back to your stinky, friends. You seem to care more about them anyway." She waited for his response. Even though they were only three years apart, Maria thought the world of him as he did of her. So, when he didn't give her the acknowledgement she was searching for her mood shifted immediately to displeasure.
Solono noticed Maria's mood change. He rolled his eyes.
"Fine. My apologies, little sister. Please forgive my rudeness. It's just that you caught me off guard with your news. Your happiness is my happiness. Tell me all about it afterwards, ok?"
The expression on Maria's face quickly began to beam again. Her sunken head erected, and her smile became radiant.
"Thank you Solono. I won't leave out a single detail. I promise!"