The next morning, Wednesday, Melissa was jolted awake not by her alarm, but by the unexpected presence of Fabrício.
He had arrived incredibly early. Simeon was still in his work jumpsuits, and William was just pulling on his school uniform shorts.
“Fabrício?” Simeon asked, his brow furrowing with visible confusion. “Did you lose something here, son?”
“Good morning, Mr. Campos. Is Melissa in?” Fabrício asked, flashing a practiced, winning smile.
“Of course she is,” Simeon replied, not wanting to be outright rude. “But unless I’m mistaken, she’s still fast asleep.”
William let out a sharp, sarcastic laugh as he swung his backpack over his shoulder. Fabrício, sensing the boy’s hostility, decided to needle him.
“Going to school without a shirt, kid? Do they actually let you in like that?
