Roke Alva

– Are you sure you know how to skate?

Richard squinted as he watched Roque painstakingly lace his skates. Alva was born and raised in the South, so Oakdell seriously doubted he'd even tried standing on ice.

"Of course I can, young man. Alva can do anything! " Roque declared proudly, finishing off the last skate. He stood up from the bench, taking a few steps on the rubber surface—so far, so good.

Richard stepped forward to hold the door for the older boy. He'd skated on the frozen lake near his parents' house many times before, so he felt confident. He stepped out onto the ice and turned to face Roke, extending his hand.

"No need, Richard. " He waved his hand and took a step, holding onto the railing. "I can do it myself ," he said, stepping with his other foot and, before he could finish speaking, landing flat on the ice.

Richard tried hard to keep a straight face, but it didn't work out that well: he chuckled softly, this time holding out both hands.

• Get up, I'll teach you.

Alva glanced at the young man with irritation, took his hands, and stood up. To keep from falling again, he grabbed Richard's shoulders tightly.

• Well then... Teach.