Harry liked how things were. It wasn’t love, nor was it pretense. It was an efficient arrangement. He had lived long enough to know that romance only served for the first thirty days. After that, what remained was the agreement. And she had accepted the arrangement with the assertiveness he appreciated. She had beauty, she had timing, and above all, she didn’t demand more than he was willing to give.

They married in a discreet ceremony. He needed a wife, and she needed a lifestyle. Neither gave too much. It was enough. When they went out together, everyone noticed the harmony and balance: he, with the posture of a successful man; she, with well-cared-for skin and restrained gestures.

They lived in a spacious apartment. During the day, she kept busy with commitments Harry never looked into. He liked knowing she had things to do — enough so they wouldn’t become too intimate, enough to keep the conversations light. He was proud that they didn’t have to fake feelings. They simply laughed together when something amused them. Sometimes, they slept holding hands. He touched her with courtesy, and there was real chemistry, within the established limits.

During his business trips, she didn’t bother him. She’d send a quick photo, a short phrase. Nothing more. He appreciated that distance — and liked knowing that, upon returning, he’d find the house in order, the bedroom scented, the wine at the perfect temperature.

That night, he came home with an expensive bouquet in hand — lilies, gardenias, and orchids that gave off a lovely fragrance. The car had dropped him at the door. He straightened his jacket, ran a hand through his hair. The doorman had already greeted him, the elevator had been quick, and now he was there.

She opened the door. She was stunning. Freshly styled hair, luminous skin, a dress that molded to her body with discretion. He said nothing, simply handed her the flowers with a reserved but sincere smile. He was a gentleman.

They tolerated each other with precision. They knew what the other expected and delivered exactly that. Harmony was built in the absence of excess. Neither dreamed too high. It was a solid, beautiful, functional partnership. And for Harry Castillo, that was as close to happiness as one could get.