Rhodia River - In the stream of love [Book 1]

Chapter 18 - The Extraordinary General Assembly

RESIDENTS' ASSOCIATION - DAY

Ricardo, dressed in a smart brand shirt and tailored pants, stands out among the more casual residents. They gather in small groups, discussing various topics, and a few notice him. Spotting Luis, Ricardo nods before moving on to the back arena, where a makeshift stage indicates Tito will be speaking. He chuckles to himself.

"There's our mayor."

"Too plain for your refined taste, isn't it?"

Ricardo turns to Carlos, "I hardly recognize you in civilian clothes."

"I wonder how you'd look in an orange uniform."

Ricardo loses his composure slightly and approaches Carlos. "What are you implying? You've been teasing me since we met—"

Carlos retorts, "Mr. Oliveira, today we're focused on how to improve the square for small children."

Carlos walks away, leaving Ricardo in a moment of silence.

Luis approaches Ricardo, "How are you, sir? Is that the officer—"

"I know who he is, Luis! Be cautious about who sees us together."

Luis looks surprised. "Why? We're not doing anything wrong—"

Ricardo interrupts, "Unfortunately, the officer thinks otherwise. He has a bias against informal workers. It's great you've obtained your license, but be careful; he's quite friendly with your acquaintances."

"I just informed Cássio."

Ricardo stares at Luis blankly. Luis remains unchanged.

"Go to my place and grab your tent later."

Luis nods and walks off. Ricardo continues through the crowd until he reaches a large table with a petition for the City Hall. Smiling, he picks up a pen and signs. Carina approaches from behind.

As Ricardo straightens up, she says, "Thank you for your help, sir."

Turning around, he sees Carina recognize him. He smiles faintly, noticing her tremble slightly.

"You're welcome, miss. I'm here to help."

Carina looks down, murmuring, "Thank you again."

She turns to leave, and Ricardo watches her before moving on, only to collide with Monica.

"Oh, great," she complains, "you were mocking the posters earlier, but now you decided to show up?"

"Am I not a resident here?"

As he walks away, Monica teases, "How did you handle the 'cat'? Did you escape?"

Ricardo spins around angrily. "'Anonymous reporting,' said the officer. It was you! I knew it!"

Monica smirks. "Not quite. I was the second. More people don't appreciate disruptions in our routine, Ricardo."

"For the record, everything was resolved. And no, I didn't bribe anyone."

"I never suggested that! Chief Roldão is a model officer."

"Can't you just leave me alone?"

Unbeknownst to them, Célio approaches. "What's going on here? People are starting to notice. Is there a problem?"

Ricardo scoffs. "I have a problem listening to you."

"You took the day to be difficult, didn't you?"

Meanwhile, Aurélio observes the scene and strides over.

"Boys, come with me for a moment," he says, turning to Ricardo, "May I?"