Javier knew how to read, in English too, as Dutch taught him. But he would still get confused, because some words were pronounced differently than they were spelled. It would frustrate him.

That was why he'd rather have you read to him. He'd sit intently, behind you with you sitting in between his legs. He'd rest his chin on your shoulder, and his other hand would play with your hair, or the fabric of your clothing. Sometimes his knife, but most times not, because he didn't want to make such a gentle moment have a reminder of violence. He would always try to stay attentive, so he could listen and learn a bit, but oftentimes he'd find himself drifting off, your hair or clothing clutched weakly in his hand. He'd ask questions sometimes, when he was confused. He would get curious too, wondering for the sake of it.

While you were reading a line, he asked, "Why are so many words the same, but have different meanings?"