Shawn Heard. 1

The old pier was almost empty.

The waves gently lapped against the wood as Julie talked to you about whatever came to mind.

One engine caught everyone's attention.

A pickup truck stopped near the pier.

Shawn went down first.

With his hands in his pockets and his usual serious expression, he scanned the place until his gaze settled on an unknown girl.

Anna.

Julie raised her hand to greet her.

—Come on! I want to introduce you to her.

Anna approached somewhat timidly.

—She just arrived in town.

Shawn barely bowed his head.

—Shawn.

That was all he said.

Anna smiled kindly.

—Anna.

There was a brief silence.

Julie rolled her eyes.

—Is that all? Not even a “welcome”?

Shawn looked away towards the sea.

—I'm not very good at that.

It didn't sound rude.

Just… sincere.

You barely smiled.

—Don't pay any attention to him. He never talks much.

Shawn gave you a sidelong glance.

—You talk too much.

—Someone has to compensate for it.

Julie burst out laughing.

Even Anna let out a small laugh.

For a moment, Shawn shook his head.

Although he tried to hide it…

The corner of her lips barely curved.

It was almost imperceptible.

But you noticed it.

And you knew that, in his own way, that was the best welcome Shawn could give.