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We walk to the bathroom, hand in hand, ready for round three. Or maybe just a relaxing soak.
Either way, I’m happy. I’m with the woman I love, and we’re exploring new things together. I can’t think of a better way to spend the rest of a Saturday.
CHAPTER 9 – Lexa
Sunday, July 27
Ihaven’t been to Valentina’s old apartment since we moved in together, and it feels weird to be back.
But Raul invited us for dinner, along with my mother, Alycia, and Sofia. He said we would be test subjects for some new recipes. I couldn’t say no to that.
We arrive at the apartment and knock on the door. Raul opens it.
“Hey, you two,” he says. “Come on in.”
We step inside, and I’m immediately hit with the delicious smell of spices and herbs. My mouth waters.
“Wow, that smells amazing,” Valentina says.
“Thanks,” Raul replies, closing the door. “I hope it tastes as good as it smells.”
“I’m sure it will,” I say. “You never disappoint.”
“Flattery won’t get you extra servings,” he jokes.
I laugh. “Worth a try.”
He leads us to the living room, where the others are already gathered. My mom is on the couch talking to Alycia. Sofia is by the window, looking outside.
She flew in on Friday to spend a week helping Raul at Amanecer, and he’s mentioned the spare room to her so many times that she’s started calling it hers.
“Hey, everyone,” I greet them.
“Hi, sweetie,” my mom says, getting up and hugging me. “How are you?”
“Good,” I reply, hugging her back. “You?”
“Fine,” she says. “Just enjoying the family time.”
I smile, then turn to Alycia. “Hey, sis.”
“Hey,” she says. “How’s the training going?”
“Good. Tiring, but good. How’s the new job?”
“Great. Different,” she says. “A lot of work, but I love it.”
I nod, glad to hear that. I know how much this means to her, to be working with Mom again. We’ve all had our ups and downs, but we’re in a good place now.
I hug Sofia next. “Good to see you,” I say.
“You too. How’s the love life?”
I roll my eyes to keep myself from blushing. “Fine, thanks for asking.”
She laughs. “I bet it’s more than fine. You two are always glowing.”
This time I fully blush, but don’t deny it. It’s true, I’m happy, in love, and it shows. I don’t care who knows it.
