“Green beans, chicken, rabbit, snails?—”
“Snails!”
“They’re delicious,” I admit. “I think you’ll like it.”
“We’ll see. I think we should spend the day with your family. It’s been a long time since I’ve been surrounded by so much…energy. It’s infectious and…I could use some contagious light and laughter.”
“Then we’ll head to the beach in a bit. Mom and Pop have a whole setup. Wait ’til you see it.”
“Like, beach chairs and blankets?”
“Oh, there’s a tent and a volleyball net too.”
“No way!” Her eyes widen.
“Coolers stocked with cervezas. Popsicles and boccadillos.” At her questioning look, I clarify, “Sandwiches.”
“An old-school beach day,” she murmurs. “Sounds perfect.”
“Good.” I glance at my watch. “Let’s grab some breakfast and then we’ll meet up with the crew.”
“‘Kay,” Callie agrees, finishing her coffee. “I’m going to change.”
I nod, tugging on the swim trunks I’m already wearing. “Take your time.”
Callie grins. “I don’t remember you being this accommodating or patient, Gutierrez.”
“I wasn’t trying so hard to impress you then.”
“But you were trying?”
I smile. “Always, Calla Lily. Just not enough for you to notice.”
“Oh, I noticed.” She winks before leaving me alone on the balcony.
I resume watching the rolling tide when my cell phone beeps with an incoming text.
Carla
Jake and I are taking bets. Tell me you’re going to dinner tonight.
I shake my head. These little shits.
Gage
What’s the wager?
Jake
Is Carla texting you? She’s such a cheater.
Gage
You’re just learning this now?
Jake
And a liar.
