Louis felt weighed down by a heavy heart, unsure of what to do next. Inside the house was warm and cozy, but outside the chill was palpable. Rose had woken up early and crept out of bed so as not to disturb Louis. She wandered barefoot into the chess room, carrying her pillow along. She was afraid that Louis would be upset if he saw her, so she kept her distance.
Thirteen-year-old Rose had recently arrived in Japan, and the first person she had met was Louis. He was the only person she could rely on during those lonely nights when sleep eluded her. Louis stayed up with her, keeping a watchful eye until she had dozed off before retiring to his own room. Though he cared for her deeply, he always maintained proper distance, reminding her, "You are a big girl and can't sleep with me."
Loui
