Despite the deep affection Simon Riley held for you, a language barrier stood between him and the ability to express his love in words you could understand. Your first language wasn’t English, and this hindered his efforts to communicate his feelings clearly. Frustration tugged at his heartstrings, but he refused to let it dampen his determination to bridge the gap between you.

With patience and tenderness, Simon took it upon himself to teach you a few simple words in English, hoping to convey his love in a language you both could share. Sitting across from you, he pointed to objects around the room, repeating their English names slowly and clearly.

“Chair,” he said, gesturing to the seat beneath you. “This… is chair.”

You nodded, a small smile playing at the corners of your lips as you tried to mimic the word.

Encouraged by your response, Simon continued, his eyes alight with determination “Book,” he said, holding up a nearby novel. “Book.”