Page 91 of A Coffee Away

“Roberto Fernández. My body, my heart, and my soul are yours to keep forever.”

Robbie grinned. “I love you.”

He slid the ring on my finger. It fit perfectly.

“I was carrying this ring the night of the accident. This was what was supposed to happen.”

I widened my eyes. “Wait. You were proposing that night?” I remembered his smile when his eyes met mine across the street. I had almost forgotten it and the margarita he held as he crossed. Just before…

My throat throbbed as I recalled that dreadful night.

“Don’t cry, baby.” Robbie kissed me, then brushed his thumb over my tears and cupped my cheek. “Today we make new memories. Happy ones.”

This was what he wanted that night. That was why he had decided to come here.

I squeezed my eyes shut. “God. We lost so much time.”

“No, love.” Robbie took me in his arms. “Don’t dwell on the past.” He kissed my neck, my cheek, my mouth. His kiss was all-encompassing, devouring my sadness and pouring life into me. “Today we start our lives together.”

“Y ahí, juntitos los dos, cerquita de Dios, será lo que soñamos. Si nos dejan, te llevo de la mano, corazón, y ahí nos vamos. Si nos dejan, de todo lo demás nos olvidamos…” the mariachis sang.

Everyone cheered around us.

We’d made it through. Together.

Chapter 24: Mending My Past

Robbie

“Mom? Can we come over?” My voice quaked as I waited for her answer.

Mom texted Esteban last night. She wanted to see us both today at their home in Condado. She promised Dad wouldn’t be there, that it would only be the three of us.

“Oh, Robbie,” she said in a soft tone. “I’m so glad you called. I texted Esteban because I want you two to come over. I want to talk to you both. Can you come by for lunch?”

I licked my lips, my mouth dry. “Sure. We’ll be there.”

“I love you, son.”

I sighed. “Love you too.” I hung up.

The sun was rising, painting the heavens in sweet pastels. I rubbed my nape as I sensed a headache was about to hit me.

Esteban came out of the bathroom. “What did she say?” He sat beside me and kneaded my shoulders and neck.

I moaned and relaxed into him. “She wants us to come for lunch.”

He hugged me from behind. “Then we’ll be there.”

Mom swung the door open before I had time to knock. She threw her arms around me and held me tight. “Oh, Robbie, I’m so glad you came.” She kissed my cheek, then turned to Esteban. She opened her arms. “Come here, boy.”

Esteban smiled and walked into her embrace.

She took both of our hands. “Thanks for coming.” She guided us inside.

The table was set for three. A traditional Christmas lunch was before us. Pasteles. Arroz con gandules. Pernil. Even coquito.

My mouth watered.