How weird was it that they’d had sex the other week, but he felt holding her hand was more intimate? Man, he was fucked-up. Though based on what she said at the café, she probably agreed.
But maybe something on this trip would change between them.
Maybe she would finally look at him the way she once had many moons ago. With not just love, but with hope instead of sadness.
“Let’s go.” She pulled on his sleeve, which caused his skin to tingle.
He had upgraded them to the best hotel in Guadalajara, but Alma wasn’t easily impressed by such things like other girls he had dated, who often expected such luxuries. She was making great money now. She didn’t need his—not that she ever had. Back whenthey had been dating in college and Alma didn’t have much disposable income, Jaime never, ever thought that she was using him in any way, shape, or form. It was one of the things that had initially attracted him to her.
Jaime met their limo, and the driver drove away from the airport. He drove down a long and winding road. Even though they arrived at the hotel late at night, lights lined the trees.
Alma smiled. “Wow. This place is stunning.”
“Glad you like it.”
The resort had beautiful Spanish architecture and a lavish long pool he would love to relax in. He had almost booked them into a boutique hotel where they could stay in a blue agave field in rooms that were shaped like barrels. It was in a distillery, but he’d decided to let Alma lead on any agave activities.
The restaurant was already closed, so they ordered room service.
Jaime had high hopes for another sexy night, but when he went to put their trays outside their room, he returned and found Alma fast asleep. Jaime tucked her in bed and kissed her on the forehead.
He didn’t even try to touch her that night. Tomorrow would be a new day, and he would get a read on her temperature toward him.
—
The next morning, Jaime ordered them breakfast in bed. Alma had a yogurt bowl with fruit, and he had a delicious omelet, both with fresh juices, pastries, and of course, copious amounts of coffee.
Alma was wearing a white slip dress and Jaime wanted to rip it off of her and fuck her until she screamed his name. She wasbreathtaking. Her black hair cascaded over her shoulders and the contrast with that dress made her look like a naughty angel.
He tapped a brochure that he had picked up in the lobby. “I know part of this trip was for your work, so I didn’t want to impose and schedule activities, but I’m happy to if you want me to.”
She tossed her hair. “It’s okay. I have everything set up.”
“What did you have planned today?”
“Oh sorry, I wasn’t trying to be vague. Today, we are going to go to an agave farm. It will be a treat for you. You can see how the agave is harvested.”
That sounded great and also super useful. Jaime still hadn’t abandoned the idea of starting his own tequila company, though now he was focused on his growing feelings for Alma. Partaking in Alma’s curated tasting experience had made him truly appreciate the different types of tequila. He was very excited to go to the farm. And spend more time with her.
“I can’t wait. Let’s go.”
“Would you like to stop in town with me first?” She slipped one sexy foot into her shoe, then the other. “I want to explore a bit, and they aren’t expecting us until later.”
“Sounds good.” He needed to get out of this room ASAP—anything to stop himself from worshipping those legs and the heaven to which they led.
Jaime had been looking forward to seeing the town, exploring the vibrant heart of Mexico, and now, as the sights and sounds of Guadalajara enveloped him, with Alma by his side, it felt surreal.
The air was filled with the rich aroma of street food, the sizzleof carne asada grilling on open flames mingling with the sweet scent of churros. Even though they had just eaten, Jaime’s stomach growled in response.
He ordered a few tacos for them and some churros for dessert from a vendor.
They shared their food and compared the flavors to those of the same dishes back home. It was easy to say that the local cuisine was better here, though he would exclude Julieta’s tacos from that statement. But there was something about being in Mexico that made the food taste even better.
Maybe it was the company.
As they wandered through the lively mercado, his senses were assaulted by a kaleidoscope of colors. Stalls overflowed with bright textiles, handcrafted pottery, and sparkling jewelry. Alma ran her fingers over a delicately embroidered blouse, marveling at the craftsmanship. He thought she was going to buy it, but she received a call and left the stand abruptly.
Jaime lingered for a bit and purchased the top for her.
