LUNA

From before I was five years old, I asked my mother Jessica to send me to a boarding school abroad where genius children attended. Initially, as a child, everything seemed normal—or so I thought. Before attending the boarding school, I recall feeling off whenever other people hugged me or sought eye contact, but I didn't consider it significant, as I was more focused on studying than on people. The only person who constantly sought contact with me was my mother. Others always respected my space. My grandfather, too, would draw near me, but not overly so. At the boarding school, loud noises increasingly bothered me. I didn't know why, but I started using earplugs. Once, when my mother Jessica came to visit so we could scatter the ashes of the woman who gave us life into the sea, I felt uncomfortable in her embrace. I didn't push her away or distance myself, but since she liked falling asleep while hugging me, I'd wait until she was asleep, then gently disentangle myself and sleep as far away as possible. She never noticed, nor did I ever mention it to her.

One day, I mentioned these feelings to the boarding school's psychologist, and after reviewing the symptoms, she diagnosed me with mild autism. I researched to understand why other people's touch and loud noises bothered me. The psychologist suggested it had likely gone unnoticed because no strangers had been in my life until then. Upon returning home from boarding school for my mother's wedding to her great love, Cristobal, Jesse, Daniel, his mother, and later Janna—the granddaughter of my grandfather and Ines—and my mother had triplets, I was overwhelmed and didn't want to go back. During visits, I always wore my headphones playing soft and soothing music, which everyone respected apart from Daniel.

From the time I met Daniel at five years old and danced with him, he constantly clung to me, wanting to hold my hand. I'd push him away and he felt I despised him, but that wasn't the case; I didn't know how to express it otherwise. He said he'd wait for me to finish boarding school, but I couldn't return. My grandfather and mother traveled for my graduation, but I won a scholarship in London. My mother initially refused, raising her voice until my grandfather calmed her down, and they both ended up supporting me.

I couldn't go back. Whenever I called home, the noise in the background from the triplets, Sofia's dance rehearsals, and Carter playing drums and studying late made it clear I wouldn't ever sleep for even five minutes in that noisy mansion, so in London at sixteen, I finished university and became the director of a robotics company, planning to stay for two years before starting my own. Some may wonder how someone with mild autism can achieve all this and lead a robotics company. The answer is simple: Marc Rivas. He shared the boarding school with me and is familiar with my condition; his brother has a more severe form of autism. Marc is my assistant. I make the decisions, and he communicates them. He understands me perfectly; I need not exert myself to speak, as he knows my gestures and understands my wishes without explicit explanation.

He ensures a quiet office environment and keeps people at bay, understanding my need for space. Some perceive me as arrogant, but I don't know how to explain why I keep my distance. It's a pity I can't bring Marc home to help; he's engaged and getting married in two months. His fiancee knows of my condition and is supportive.

Daniel, the son of my step-grandmother Jackson's wife, joined the military by obtaining early emancipation. I've hacked into the military base's system a few times. I haven't seen him for a while, but I know he's thriving in the military; little remains of the boy who always followed me and wanted to hold my hand.

Today, I've reached the age of majority and will return in the morning, feeling somewhat anxious. For my farewell gift, Marc presented me with items to help me relax and gave me the contact of his friend who can assist in managing the company I plan to launch, as she specializes in supporting people like me.

"Happy birthday, little genius," Marc's fiancee Lizz placed a cake in front of me.

"Thank you," I replied, blowing out the candles while they refrained from loud clapping. We ate cake, and they had some drinks; I don't care for alcohol.

"Your 2-in-1 must be thrilled," Marc commented, referring to my mother, who is both a mother and sister to me.

"Yes, she is," I answered.

"Everything will be alright, Luna, you'll see," Lizz reassured me.

"I hope so," I replied.

"Seeing that you're a bit uncomfortable, we'll leave you to rest, and since we won't see each other for a long time, you'll have to tolerate a few hugs," they both hugged me quickly.

"I'll see you at your wedding," I said, and with smiles, they departed. I needed to rest, as my grandfather's private plane would arrive at dawn to take us.

I'm not a heavy sleeper, often waking in the middle of the night, struggling to fall back asleep. Upon my return, I'll live with my grandfather, his wife, and Janna. Since Daniel is in the military and seldom home, I should be fine. You may wonder why I'm not moving into my mother Jessica's house. The answer is simple: the triplets are noisy, Sofia still lives there with a dance studio in the mansion, always bustling with people. Carter is chased by girls who constantly want to study at the house, Jesse is always around, and my mother is very clingy. Though her hugs I can tolerate, and they might even provide some sense of security, living in that mansion would be torture for anyone on the autism spectrum. Cristobal is always working, so he doesn't contribute to the noise.

At dawn, I grabbed my suitcase, computer, and belongings, hailed a taxi, and directed it to the airport. Upon arrival, I went straight to my grandfather's private plane, greeted the pilot politely, boarded, fastened my seatbelt, and put on my headphones for the journey. After many hours, I arrived as the sun set, surprising everyone by returning two weeks early, avoiding any surprise parties. The plane came for me in secret, as I'd requested the pilot, so I could surprise my grandfather—a request he honored.

Landing, I took a taxi to the Smith mansion. As the taxi stopped, I retrieved my luggage and approached the front door. Just as I was about to knock, the door swung open, and I found myself face to face with the least expected person. I looked down, feeling uncomfortable.

"LUNA?" my grandfather spoke from behind him, approaching with a smile.

"Hello, Grandfather," I greeted nervously, fidgeting with the bracelets on my hand.

LUNA

I had to put in a lot of effort to keep my emotions in check, to not run away. For years, I've attended therapy and done everything in my power not to distance myself from people, to lead a normal life.

"My little genius, we didn't expect you for another two weeks," my grandfather greeted me with a hug and kissed my forehead. His touch isn't as uncomfortable.

"Daniel, what are you waiting for? Help her with her suitcase. Come on in, we'll call your mom to let her know you've arrived," my grandfather released me. I followed, feeling awkward, as Daniel carried my luggage.

"I'll leave your suitcase in your room," I heard his deep, cold voice. It's clear there's nothing left of the boy who always trailed behind me.

"Grandfather, it's late. Call mom in the morning, I don't want her to rush over. It's getting dark," I requested.

"Alright, I'll let you settle in. Daniel and I were about to pick up Ines and Janna for a movie. Go to your room; I had it redecorated for you. It's the same as before you went to boarding school," my grandfather said.

"Thank you," I said appreciatively.

"Tell Daniel I'm waiting in the car," he asked as I ascended the stairs. Reaching my old room, he stood there with a picture of me in his hands. Not knowing what else to do, I clenched my fists and spoke up.

"Grandfather Jackson says he's waiting in the car to go get your sister and your mom," I informed him, avoiding his piercing gaze.

"Why did you come back? To torture me? You've always thought you're better than me, always pushing me away. So why return if you can't even bear to look me in the eyes?" Daniel said with clear anger.

"No, I—" I tried to tell him it wasn't like that, but the words wouldn't come out.

"Don't say anything. To you, I'm not even worthy of being the little genius's friend," he left, and I grabbed my pillow to scream into it. I didn't want him to hear me.

I wanted to tell him I never thought I was better than him, that I didn't want to push him away, but it's something I still can't control. After screaming into the pillow, I let a few tears fall, then began relaxation exercises. I had to calm down, or it would be a bad first night here. Once composed, I took a long shower, put on my pajamas, and got into bed, not without inserting my earplugs, which didn't help much. At around three in the morning, I woke up thirsty and, not expecting my arrival, there was no water jug in my room, so I went down to the kitchen. After grabbing water, I ran into Daniel on my way out, clad only in his pajama shorts, his perfect chest and well-defined abs exposed. I quickly moved away, feeling nervous.

"Have you never seen a man shirtless?" he teased. I shook my head.

"Then you should take a closer look instead of running away," I grew even more flustered as he cornered me against the wall, and I closed my eyes.

"Do I seem so insignificant that you can't even look at me?" His words took me by surprise, and when I opened my eyes, I saw him leaving through the garden door.

Of course, he's not insignificant, but the words wouldn't leave my mouth. Annoyed with myself and with him for thinking so, I ran back to my room and screamed into my pillow again. Maybe it was a mistake to come here; buying my own apartment might be best, where I can be more at peace in my controlled space.

I couldn't sleep for the rest of the night. I closed my eyes for barely five more minutes at six in the morning and opened them when I felt someone stroking my hair. I looked up to see my mom Jessica, who my friend Marc calls "2-for-1."

"Hi, my little one," Jessica said.

"Hi, mom," I replied as she hugged me and climbed into bed with me. It was easier when she did this because she'd embrace me without making eye contact as we talked.

"I missed you so much, my moon, my little one," my mom said.

"Me too," I replied.

"You didn't announce your arrival because you didn't want a party, right?" she knew me well, and she would have thrown one, but she understands me, especially since a few months ago, Grandfather had disclosed my condition to her, so she gets why I sometimes pull away too much.

"No, I didn't want one," I replied.

"Okay, how about a family meal instead? No music, just us," she offered.

"Okay," I agreed.

"Get ready for breakfast; I'll be waiting downstairs," she kissed my forehead and I headed for the shower.

Sometimes, I'm curious about my father, but I don't want to search for him. It's hard enough to express myself with the family I've known all my life; if I sought him out, I'm certain I couldn't speak to him.

After showering and getting ready, I went down to join everyone in the dining room, including Daniel.

"Welcome," Cristobal gave me a small hug, and so did the triplets. Sofia, as I was told, would arrive for lunch since she was at a dance audition. Carter hugged me very briefly; he's a bit like me, not seeking physical contact.

"Luna, do you know what you're going to do?" asked Cristobal.

"Yes, I've found the building I need for the company, and some contacts from London have made some recommendations," I replied. I can talk to others as long as they don't seek prolonged eye contact during the conversation and don't try to touch me.

"If you need help, you know you can count on us," Grandfather Jackson said.

"Yes, thank you," I replied.

Everything was fine and calm until we went to the garden, and Daniel decided to blast rock music at full volume. My head felt like it was going to explode. I covered my ears and hurried to my room for my earplugs. When I was returning, I heard a dispute between my brother Carter and Daniel.

"What's the matter with you? We agreed no music," Carter reproached him.

"Why, because the princess doesn't like it?" Daniel said.

"Enough, both of you," intervened my mom, noticed me watching, so I went back up to my room and hugged my pillow.

"What's going on between you and Daniel?" my mom asked. How could I answer her if I didn't even understand it myself?

LUNA

That question caught me off guard, and I started fidgeting with my hands anxiously. I searched for my color cube and concentrated on it—it always had a calming effect and helped me avoid eye contact with my mom.

"Don't worry, I won't push you," she said, and left. Though I felt calmer, I chose not to go downstairs until lunchtime.

During the meal, I felt extremely uncomfortable. Daniel's expression was anything but pleasant, but I didn't know what to do or how to react. If only Marc were here... First thing tomorrow, I'll visit the person Marc recommended and check out the building where I'll start my company. I'll start looking for an apartment for myself. I know Grandpa and Mom will be upset, but they have to accept that I'm not a child anymore after living on my own for all these years.

"Luna, do you speak German?" Grandpa interrupted my thoughts.

"Yes, why do you ask?" I replied, continuing to eat.

"Could you join me at the company tomorrow? We have some investors from Germany coming in. To my knowledge, they don't speak our language, and I don't speak theirs. Plus, the interpreter I hired had to quit due to family issues, and I have no replacement. Could you help me out?" Grandpa Jackson said.

"Yes, but I can't stay long as I have a meeting with the owner of the building where I'll open my business, and I need to meet with someone who was recommended to me," I replied, without maintaining steady eye contact with him.

"No need to worry. It'll just be for an hour. This investor is quite particular and doesn't drag out business meetings; he gets straight to the point," Grandpa explained.

"That sounds fine; I'll accompany you first thing. Is there anything specific you want me to translate?" I asked.

"Yes, the contract is in my office. Would you mind reading and rewriting it in German? My new secretary was supposed to do it, but she doesn't know any German and internet translators aren't reliable; they seem to mistranslate some words," Grandpa Jackson added.

"Alright, I'll do it tonight," I responded.

"Thank you, my little genius," he said, and I gave him a brief smile, then we all finished our meal. Dessert arrived — strawberries, which I love — and I devoured it.

The family stayed until supper time when we all gathered again at the table. After dinner, Mom kissed me on the forehead and took the triplets with her because they had broken one of Ines's vases.

"Those siblings of yours are nothing like you or Carter," Grandpa commented.

"Yes, I'll look over the contract you asked for. Do you mind if I do it in your office?" I asked.

"No problem; the contract is on the desk. Use my computer if you'd like," said Grandpa Jack.

"No, I'll use my laptop. I'll go get it," I said, then went to my room to get my laptop, headphones, and phone.

I stayed up late translating and reviewing every term in that contract. When I finished, I wanted to read it again, but I felt someone watching me. Looking up, I met Daniel's intense gaze. I removed my headphones and he spoke.

"Has the little genius finished?" Daniel asked, and I didn't understand why he was there.

"Yes, I was just about to review it again to make sure it's correct," I said, nervously looking back down at the contract.

"Why can't you maintain eye contact with anyone?" Daniel asked abruptly, and I didn't know how to respond.

"What are you talking about?" I kept focused on the contract.

"I always thought it was just me you couldn't look in the eye, but during the meal today, you couldn't hold anyone's gaze for more than a few seconds. Are you ashamed of something, is that why you can't look your family in the eyes?" Daniel questioned as he approached the desk.

"I haven't done anything wrong," I said, starting to fiddle with my bracelets again, but he came around the desk and spun my chair to face him.

"Look me in the eyes," Daniel crouched to my level and gently forced my face to look directly into his eyes, despite my effort to look away. His grip was strong—Daniel had become muscular, probably from his military training.

"Let me go," I whispered. I was very nervous.

"You have beautiful lips and eyes; you're perfect, but you're hiding something from me, and I'm going to find out what it is," he kissed my forehead and then let me go.

For some reason, a tear escaped my eye. Why does Daniel act this way with me? Why can't he just accept my distance like everyone else?

I took several deep breaths to calm myself and did the relaxation exercises Marc recommended. After double-checking the contract, I went to my bedroom. Passing by Daniel's room, which was open, I saw him on the floor exercising. He was sweaty and shirtless, which made me nervous. Quickly, I entered my room and closed the door.

I took a shower and got ready for bed—it was almost two in the morning, but I don't sleep much, so I wouldn't have trouble waking up early to go to the company with Grandpa Jackson.

I woke up early, as usual, and didn't need an alarm as they're too loud and irritating. After a shower and getting dressed, I was set to accompany Grandpa to his company, then see Marc's recommended contacts, and afterward check out my future office building. Finding an apartment would take time because I needed to make sure it was quiet and not too trafficked. I considered a villa in a gated community, where only owners and family could enter—this would be perfect for me.

When I came downstairs for breakfast, I was surprised to learn we were all going to the company.

"Ines and Janna are going to discuss something with my new secretary, and Daniel is checking the new security system, so we can't all fit in one car. Would you mind going with Daniel?" asked Grandpa Jackson, and what choice did I have? Another thing to add to my list was buying a car.

"That's fine, Grandpa," I replied.

We had a silent breakfast, and then we were off to the company. Daniel hadn't said a word all morning, and I hoped he would remain silent during the drive, but luck wasn't on my side. As soon as we got into the car, he took my hand.

"What are you doing?" I asked nervously, trying to pull away.

"I was reading a bit online; there's stuff that explains your behavior," he said, making me even more nervous.

"Daniel, I—" Before I could speak, he interrupted.

"I'm not going to pressure you into telling me anything, but I'm not going to give you space like everyone else either," he said, holding my hand tighter and kissing it gently.

"Your hand is very soft; just relax, close your eyes, and think of nothing. Breathe deeply and keep doing that," Daniel instructed. Despite feeling the small kisses on my hand, it was relaxing to close my eyes and breathe.

"We're here," Daniel announced suddenly, and I opened my eyes to see him smiling—a smile I hadn't seen since we were children.

"I'll wait until you want to tell me everything," he said, dropping one last kiss on my hand, got out of the car, and opened the door for me.

"Thank you," I said, avoiding his gaze.

"I'll take you to Jackson's office and then go check on the security equipment," Daniel said as we walked side by side to Grandpa Jackson's office. Grandpa wasn't there yet, so I waited for him. Why were they taking so long if we had left at the same time? Daniel had to go since he had other things to do after checking the security.

☎️ "Miss Smith, the German investors are here," the receptionist announced since Grandpa's secretary wasn't there.

☎️ "Let them in and bring coffee for everyone," I responded. Fortunately, I brought the contract, not Grandpa. Where could he be?

☎️ "Yes, Miss," the receptionist said.

As the door opened and I gave permission to enter, I was stunned. A tall, blonde man walked in—like me, with blue eyes—our noses and lips were identical. For the first time, I found myself staring at someone for more than a few seconds. Who was this man, and why did he look so much like me?