“Sometimes, the most unexpected connections are found in the simplest of places, like an old beeper carrying the voices of two souls destined to meet.”
~ Zoë Kaià

The next morning was a blur for Maria. Her mind was clouded with questions, and the only thing she could think of was Carlo.

Was he even real? I need to know the answer!

Suddenly, the beeper went off. “Miss, pssst!” came Carlo’s persistent voice, calling nonstop until Maria, frustrated by the noise, picked it up.

“Hi, Miss. Good thing you answered my call again!” Carlo’s excitement was evident, his voice practically buzzing through the speaker.

“What do you want?” Maria snapped, her patience wearing thin—today was just not the day, especially with her period making everything feel ten times worse.

“Let’s get to know...