Richard

“So what do you like to do on the weekends?” Nikki steals a piece of cotton candy straight off my cone before retreating to her side of the bench.

This random bench at the corner of Dreamland has become our weekly meet-up spot. While my original intention of joining the mentorship program wasn’t altruistic, I’ve come to enjoy the hour break from my busy schedule because Nikki is a decent companion. During the time I’ve gotten to know her, I’ve come to realize she shares some of Maya’s best traits. She fills most of the conversation, giving me a chance to sit back and listen. Thanks to her, I can spend an hour not thinking about Dreamland or the demands from the employees.

“I don’t do much besides work.”

She fake snores. “Boring.”

“What doyoudo on weekends?”

She beams. “I hang out with Nicolo. Watch movies. Go to the…