You'd noticed Javier's soft glances, the way his eyes watched you during your free time. He wasn't attempting to be sneaky, not at all, and in truth, you were fine with that.

He always took up an interest in what you were doing, and it felt good. The other men in camp took an almost off-putting caution when it came down to talking to you. You were the child of Dutch, after all.

"I'll never understand it." You heard a voice say right beside you, your eyes glued on the book within your grasp. Javier had a soft smile upon his face, almost giddy to show you praise. He knew your brilliance was directly taught from Hosea and Dutch, but he gave you all of the credit. "I'm gifted in the, uh...music field, but you pick up a book as if it's a piece of candy. It's a wonder, truly." He giggled, softly.

Javier saw you as a treasure, something unattainable, and you knew so. He couldn't have you in the way he longed to. His teeth appeared as he smiled down at you, a soft smile plastered upon his lips. "What are you reading now?"