An an odd young Maltese chemist in the employ of the Blackshirts in Rome rescues a young Gypsy girl from an uncertain but dark future in the ruinous aftermath of world war 2. For some reason he is connected to her potential and intelligence. She is the only real human connection he makes in his life. He has no patience with the rest of humanity. Thirty years later they meet in Bologna, and dance around some of the debts and grievances that connect them. She owes everything to him and he has no fondness for anyone but her. While their bond is still strong, they are reminded that they are as unknowable to each other as ever. This story is only 2000 words. Enjoy it in the evening before you go to sleep, where most stories are created.