Kendall probably understood what Mateo was going through.
Years of military life had given her a sense of security and direction. But after she left the army, she felt like a piece of straw drifting on a river, lost and unsure of where to go.
Many retired veterans experience this sense of disorientation in the early stages of civilian life.
Mateo, however, was even more affected. His personality was old-fashioned, his thinking rigid, and he was more innocent than most. The emotional backlash hit him harder than others.
That's why he clung desperately to the only place that made him feel safe and at home.
"Congratulations on staying in the army. Do you want something to eat?" Kendall asked gently.
"Mm." Mateo nodded.
Sensing the awkwardness in the air, he tentatively asked Kendall a few questions
Why did she join the army?
Why was she so strong?
Had she received military training before?
Kendall answered each question patiently.
They ended up talking late into the night.
