Chapter 1.

Amable Gentile. 

Time ago, amidst the labyrinthine streets of the bustling city, within the noise of traffic and businesses, there existed a sparsely frequented neighborhood where the office of an elderly therapist named Amable Gentile operated. 

Amable was an elderly man, perhaps around 80 years old, with a slender figure, white hair, a relaxed countenance, and a friendly appearance. 

He was a solitary individual with few friends, yet he was cordial and sincere, getting along well with all his neighbors and being greatly cherished by those who knew him.

A man of faith, a believer in miracles and healthy routines, with a warm gaze and advice reflecting the wisdom bestowed upon him by life, his profession, and the countless years of being a mentor. Nevertheless, his profession was also demanding, as he bore the privilege and burden of knowing life stories and providing counsel to minors. 

Many of these stories had a happy ending, but others carried the weight of suffering and distress that children carried into adulthood.

Amable would rise early, have his coffee, water the plants, feed the cat, and begin attending to clients in a space within his residence designated for consultations. He had to adapt this way since his income didn't allow him to rent a separate space. Moreover, this place was infused with peace and a warm, familial aroma.

He was a man who loved his work, and often his only reward was a simple expression of gratitude and the smiles of his clients, who faced situations no child should encounter.

He was always punctual at his workplace, arranging his office, cleaning the old sofa where the children sat for therapy. As the day progressed, he welcomed numerous clients who had appointments scheduled months in advance, in need of the wise, encouraging, and timely words of this man.

Generous and detached from material possessions, he navigated life by offering help unconditionally. Amable conducted his consultations in exchange for a voluntary contribution, equivalent to the cost of a cup of coffee.

He had to implement this approach upon realizing that a "voluntary" contribution without a basis was not paying the bills. People took advantage of his generosity, debts piled up, as did his knowledge and heart.

He was an eccentric man from another era, where values were paramount, generosity was abundant, and 

academic and personal education shone brighter than any other professional offering words of encouragement.

So unique was this mystical character that his philosophy of life centered on using his gift to heal souls and provide service out of love, not self-interest. Amable aided children who sought his therapy, addressing sorrowful cases that demonstrated at a tender age that life isn't fair. 

Even though it might seem like there's no light at the end of the tunnel, Amable taught them to confront reality and view these situations as opportunities to 

become stronger.

Many children arrived with heavy hearts due to injustices in their homes, affected by their parents' poor decisions. They suffered the consequences and came to believe they were responsible for the lack of a stable home.

Time went by, and our friend continued to grow in wisdom, but it was also evident how the weight of years began to impact his movements, gait and his health had deteriorated. He had devoted his life to do what filled him the most and what he knew best: helping children heal their tender souls.

Chapter 2.

A Long Time Friend. 

Amable was an only child. He emigrated after World War II and lacked close relatives. His wife had passed away many years ago, and the absence of children led them to dedicate their lives to serving and helping children, offering the love they never could give to their own.

One day, while Amable was organizing his office, someone knocked on the door. 

It was Laura, an elderly widow, and a friend of Amable's wife. Although their relationship never progressed beyond a healthy friendship, she always cared for the doctor's well-being.

Laura carried a bag of cinnamon rolls, Amable's favorites. They used to enjoy them with a cup of coffee and have deep conversations about the cases the doctor had on his mind that day. This time, Laura was visiting after a period of absence due to family matters.

During the visit, Amable shared the news of his illness and the prognosis that he had little time left. 

Laura was deeply saddened to hear this. Although she never confessed her feelings for him, Laura held him in high esteem and always respected the grief Amable carried for his wife's death.

Laura bid farewell, assuring Amable that she would be available whenever he needed. She promised to return in the coming days to check on him. Grateful, Amable thanked her for her words, and they said their goodbyes. 

Once alone, Amable remained in his office, sitting on 

the old sofa that countless innocent souls had sat on, reclaiming their smiles.

As time passed, Amable began to weaken. While his mind remained sharp and he was willing to help, his body started to weaken. Exhaustion overwhelmed him, and slowly he yearned for the tranquility and darkness of a comfortable place where he could rest.

Chapter 3.

A Young Friend. 

One morning, while watering the plants on his window ledge during a moment without consultations, a young man of about 25 years-old energetically greeted him from across the street. Amable, not very certain, responded with a hesitant greeting to the smiling stranger. The young man continued his way, leaving the tired doctor puzzled.

The next day, around 11 in the morning, as the doctor looked out from the balcony of his office, a young man  

with a familiar face approached.

It was the same young man he had seen the previous day, but the distance didn't allow him to recognize. He now introduced himself as Juan.

Juan was a boy who years ago had received consultations from the doctor. Slim, restless, imaginative, and curious, he had now grown into a talented man with his own photography studio near the doctor´s office. Juan photographed families, was called for events like weddings and baptisms. 

People sought him out for the quality of his work, his charisma, and his special ability with children.

Amable was glad to see him; many years had passed since the last time he had seen Juan. He remembered him especially for his positive attitude, his determination to heal and move forward despite difficulties. He invited Juan to come in, but due to the upcoming appointments, they agreed to meet later at a café down the street from the office to catch up.

Hours later, after the doctor had seen his last patient, he headed to the café. 

With a warm handshake and a paternal smile, he greeted Juan. They spent several hours talking as if time hadn't passed. They discussed their professions, their pasts, what they were currently doing, and other common aspects, such as the importance of helping children and their families in difficult times.

Late that night, after an enriching conversation filled with memories and anecdotes, they said goodbye with the commitment to meet again. After a brotherly hug, each went their own way and got lost in the streets of the city center.

Juan and Amable found in each other a lost friend, and as the doctor's health worsened, their mutual appreciation and care seemed to grow. 

One day, while Juan visited the doctor, the latter confessed his condition and that he probably wouldn't be able to continue helping his patients for much longer. 

Juan was saddened, for he had found in Amable not only a friend and professional guide but also the paternal figure he never had in his childhood.

Chapter 4.

The Departure. 

Fatigue was increasing in Amable as his strength deteriorated, and client visits had to be declined more frequently. Laura came weekly, assisting him with medications and providing comfort through trivial conversations that brought forth tender smiles and an attitude full of love.

May 30th was approaching, the date on which the doctor would celebrate his birthday, but also the day that doctors had predicted would be challenging due to his

illness. 

Both Juan and Laura were aware of what lay ahead and were determined to ensure that the doctor spent his final moments in peace, surrounded by affection and rest.

For his birthday, Laura prepared a cake, and Juan created a photo mural that included images of various patients, notes of gratitude, and an everlasting recognition of the love the doctor had poured into his work.

On his birthday, surrounded by his two closest friends, the photo mural, a cake, and an old picture of his beloved Jen, the doctor blew out the candle. 

In his final words, he made one last wish: that the help to children would not stop and that someone with a noble heart and unquestionable wisdom would continue his work.

As if foreseen by medicine, Amable Gentile slipped into a sleep surrounded by an atmosphere of peace, warm light, and an unusual silence in the bustling city.

In that instant, a faint but strange breeze entered the room, fluttering some papers and rustling the leaves of the plants. 

Small sparks of light appeared and disappeared as they moved slowly in various directions. Some seemed to emerge from the doctor's chest, while others floated in different parts of the office, clearly preferring to dissolve into the sofa.

Laura, sitting by his side, shed tears as she held her friend's hand. Bringing it to her face, she kissed it and bid farewell with a whisper, "Goodbye, my friend." 

 Then, turning to Juan, who was watching his friend's departure with sadness, she said, "We better call a doctor."

Soon an ambulance arrived, taking him away. On a cold and rainy day, preparations were made for his burial. Laura took care of the ceremony, and Juan, along with other friends and former patients of the doctor, carried his body to his new resting place.

Chapter 5.

The Old Sofa. 

It was a couple of weeks after that Laura got in touch with Juan to discuss what to do with the books, plants, the cat, and some antique furniture that had belonged to the doctor. The owner of the place where the office was located needed it to be vacated quickly, as she had plans to open a hair salon in that space.

After thinking it over, Laura decided to take some plants and books, while Juan chose to keep the cat, the desk, a chair that was already worn out, and the old sofa. 

The latter held a special meaning for him, as countless stories had been shared there, and he felt as if a part of the doctor had become imprinted on it. Though he wasn't exactly sure what to do with the sofa, he didn't want to just abandon it.

The remaining books were sent to the public library, the bed was donated to a shelter, and the clothes were given to a charity, following the doctor's wishes.

After saying goodbye to Laura, Juan promised to stay in touch, as they had developed a beautiful friendship through their connection with the doctor. 

Moreover, Laura's children were already students and she lived alone, while Juan had his mother in a distant village, hours away.

Juan returned to his apartment, settled the cat, and placed the desk with its chair in a corner. As for the old sofa, which proved to be quite a challenge to carry up to the third floor, he wasn't quite sure what to do with it. Though he cleaned it, it remained in poor condition. The upholstery was old and torn in several places, and the poor sofa was no longer fit to be used as it was. In fact, while he was cleaning it, one of its legs broke off and fell onto his foot, causing him to jump in pain for a while.

Chapter 6.

The Idea.

Juan worked from his apartment, so he took the meager piece of furniture to his office. But what to do with the old sofa? He tried placing it in the study, but it didn't fit well. Then he put it in the reception area, yet it didn't blend with the surroundings either. 

He thought about hiding it, as it was quite large. Then he remembered a friend who specialized in upholstery.

The friend's name was Brian, and he had also been a patient of the doctor. However, Brian had a resentful and dark attitude, and sometimes spoke ill of the doctor. Juan knew that Brian hadn't grasped that the will to improve oneself depends on one's own effort, not on others. Despite this, Juan approached Brian with the idea of having him help with the sofa.

Juan explained his plan to Brian, suggesting dismantling the old sofa and repurposing it for his photography studio. Although Brian didn't understand at first, Juan showed him a sketch that clarified things. Brian still hesitated proposed a price and a timeframe for the job.

Brian pointed out that the furniture was damaged and that materials would need to be invested in for repairs. However, they agreed on a price, and Juan made an advance payment. 

After bidding farewell, Juan returned home to work while Brian took care of the task.

The process took about a week, and despite delays and additional costs, Brian ultimately completed the work. Juan felt excited upon seeing the outcome, as he knew the new piece of furniture would bring joy to the children in his photography studio. 

Though the finish wasn't flawless, Juan understood that this would be the tool that would touch the children's hearts.

He brought the tiny sofa home and placed by the window of the studio, content with his new addition. After admiring it for a moment, he turned off the lights, closed the door, and retired to his room.

Chapter 7.

Almost Ready.

Later, while Juan was working, something troubled him. He felt that the small armchair was missing something. 

He returned to the room, looked at it, and decided to add colors, something to cover it. It looked bare, as if it were cold; it needed to appear more human. Clothing! That's what it needs. I'll put clothes on it and give it a name. He went to his wardrobe, took out a shirt that was too small for him, and some worn-out jeans.

He made a few adjustments here and some stitches there, dressing the armchair with the impatience of a child playing with their stuffed animals. And thus, Gus was dressed.

Juan chose the name Gus because Amable had once told him that when he was married to Jen, they had the intention of naming their son Gustaf.

Little Gus was finished, and Juan was pleased with the result. It looked comfortable and friendly. Juan believed it would bring joy to the children in his photography sessions. 

Who wouldn't want to take a picture with our little Gus? It was obvious that everyone would.

That night, while Juan worked late in bed on a project, he had to present the next morning, something strange happened. The window of his bedroom opened with a gentle breeze, like the one that had occurred on the day Amable had passed away. There were no flashes of light or papers flying around Juan's room, but a soft scent of cinnamon rolls filled the room.

Juan was surprised, as for a moment he thought the smell was coming from the bakery. 

He looked out the window to check if the bakery lights were on, but they were off because it was Sunday, and it was very late at night. He closed the window, returned to bed, and continued working.

What Juan hadn't realized was that in the next room, where Gus was, something was happening. Hundreds of tiny lights filled the room, swirling in circles from top to bottom and left to right, while a breeze stirred everything in the room.

Suddenly, a beam of light settled on Gus, without touching his fibers. Amidst this commotion, everything ceased, and calm returned to the room.

Unaware of what had happened just a few meters away, Juan turned off the light, placed his computer on the nightstand, turned around, and lay down to sleep.

The next morning, Juan woke up, got up, went about his tasks, washed his hands, and headed to the kitchen passing through the room where his new acquisition was, or so he thought.

Chapter 8.

The Encounter.

Upon returning, he opened the studio door to catch a glimpse of his creation and feel proud again, but he didn't see it. There were only papers on the floor. He leaned in a little more, but still couldn't see it. He thought to himself, "How strange!" He entered the room and searched for it behind other furniture, in the adjacent room, behind some boxes, but there were no signs of it.

"I thought," Juan said, "I've been robbed!" But by whom? The room was on the third floor. The studio had windows, he checked, and they were all closed. Nothing was missing. Valuables were still there. How could this be? Who would be interested in something like that? 

Could it be that a big toy company wants to steal my idea? It must have been them. They must have spies in the city. They saw me take Gus out of the workshop and followed me. They took him in the early morning. I'm sure of it! It must have been a whole operation: masked men climbed the walls, probably ninjas, took him, and drove away in a big car with tinted windows. 

All under the protection of an armed helicopter. There's no other explanation.

Then, Juan turned around to go to his bedroom, get dressed, and continue investigating. But as he turned around, behind the door, he saw a familiar figure. He was perplexed. Was it Gus? However, it looked different—taller, standing upright. Now, it looked like a plush toy, not a chair. It was right behind the door, perfectly positioned to not be seen when someone entered. 

Juan, with a furrowed brow, took the first step to approach and see it better. Then, Gus smiled at him and said, 'Hello!'

Juan was terrified, agitated, confused, and cold since it was early, and he was barefoot. Standing on the sidewalk of his building, people passing by looked at him puzzled. He scratched his head. "Did I dream it?" he thought. "Am I hallucinating?" he wondered. "Obviously, yes!" he answered himself. But how? What did I eat? It must be some kind of allergy. The cat! It must be the cat. 

Should I see a doctor? No, I can't go in my pajamas. I must put something on. But I have to go in. I think I don't want to go in.

Juan gathered his courage, took a deep breath, and entered the building. From below, he looked through the space between the staircase railings. He climbed the stairs slowly, making sporadic stops to make sure no one was following him. A toy enterprise agent, perhaps. One never knows.

He reached his apartment and found the door ajar, as he had left it, or perhaps he closed it? Was it more open? He told himself, "Calm down." It was a hallucination, those things happen. "Who hasn't seen a plush toy talk?" Well, not many people, I suppose. But calm down, go in, and see for yourself that the little armchair is still there.

Juan opened the apartment door, stuck his head in, and saw that everything was in order. He entered stealthily, avoiding making the wooden floor creak. Walking through his room, he didn't see anything. Continuing to the room next to his, he grabbed a tennis ball from a shelf in the hallway before proceeding, just in case he needed to defend himself.

Finally, he reached the door of the room where Gus, "the devilish doll," was. Heaven and earth seemed to unite for Juan. He stood behind the door, and a thousand doubts assailed him: Should I open the door? How should I open it? Violently, slowly, casually, carefully, he wondered. 

He took a deep breath and opened it slowly. He stuck his head in, and everything was in its place. There were no more papers on the floor, the photos were where they should be. Everything was in order. And there was Gus, in the same place and the same way he had left him the previous night.

Juan observed Gus for a few seconds before moving a muscle and entering. He opened the door and from there, he threw the tennis ball at it. Seeing that it didn't crawl, growl threateningly, or drool with sharp teeth, he approached slowly. He placed his hand on the top of its head, as if verifying that everything was fine. Finally, Juan breathed.

Juan touched it again, and after a moment of silence, he began to laugh. He laughed so much that he had to sit on another nearby chair. He looked at Gus again and told himself, "I need to take things easy." He laughed again, got up, and without taking his eyes off it, headed to his room to get ready and start a new day of work.

Chapter 9.

First Day at Work.

That afternoon, Juan had a photo session in his studio for an affluent family who had hired his services because their daughter Lili was turning 7. Lili was a sweet girl but with a sad gaze, big glasses, and blond, wavy hair. 

Lili wore braces due to her unruly teeth that needed correction to avoid hurting anyone when she smiled. Juan had been warned that Lili didn't easily laugh and was a challenge for any professional.

It was almost time for the photo session, and Juan was eager to test his new partner. Everything was ready: lights, cameras, synchronizers, backgrounds, the computer, and Gus. "I just hope it doesn't move," Juan thought as he rolled his eyes and chuckled.

The doorbell rang, and it was the Miller family, high-class and well-off. Juan thought they would be excellent references for future jobs. He knew he had to make everything go perfectly. The photo session began, and Juan introduced Gus to little Lili. However, she wasn't in her best mood. She looked at him disinterestedly and preferred to go to her mother's arms. 

Juan tried to convince her that Gus was friendly and good with kids, and that he wanted to take a photo with her, but Lili showed no interest whatsoever. She simply sat on the floor, playing with some petals that had fallen in the morning, while Juan was in a panic.

Desperate to get Lili to take the photos, Juan attempted various strategies. Nothing worked; Lili didn't want to cooperate. Juan brought out some toys and took the Millers outside of the studio to convince them to be patient with the little one, who just needed time to adjust to the environment. The Millers insisted on coming back another day.

While this conversation took place, Lili was left alone in the studio with Gus for about five minutes. That's when Juan and the Millers heard Lili laugh. Juan exclaimed, "There she is! It's all sorted out. Kids always need time to feel comfortable."

Upon entering, they noticed that Lili had a different demeanor. She was calm, smiling, and eager to be photographed with Gus, surrounded by her parents in a hug. "Gus is my friend, Mom!" the little girl exclaimed. "That's wonderful, sweetheart!" Mrs. Miller responded. The photos continued for a while, and although Juan was behind the camera, he subtly noticed a change in Gus's expression. 

At the end of the session, he almost seemed to have a smile drawn on his face.

Juan concealed his astonishment. Although everything had gone perfectly, a sense of mystery overwhelmed him. The Millers were very pleased and coordinated with Juan to receive both printed and digital photos. Juan thanked them and accompanied them to the door, along with a now cheerful, friendly Lili who had a different look than when she had arrived.

Intrigued, Juan returned to his studio and looked at Gus with bewilderment. He remained in his place, static and lifeless, like a simple piece of furniture.

Chapter 10.

A Coffee with Laura. 

The next day, Juan woke up with a certain unease and went to see Gus. He opened the door cautiously, and yes, there it was, in the same place where he had left it the night before. Scratching his head, Juan smiled and said to himself, "I think I'm going crazy." He got dressed, gathered his things, and headed out onto the street.

Juan had planned to visit clients that morning, and since it was Tuesday, he had arranged to meet Laura at the café down the block to catch up on their lives without Amable. 

When they met, they shared how they were doing and how they were managing their routines.

Amid nervous laughter, Juan told Laura about the strange episode from the previous morning. She responded that Amable was a man of faith and a believer in miracles, so it wouldn't be strange if such a good man was allowed to leave a successor in mysterious ways.