Total pages in book: 101
Estimated words: 95431 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 477(@200wpm)___ 382(@250wpm)___ 318(@300wpm)
Estimated words: 95431 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 477(@200wpm)___ 382(@250wpm)___ 318(@300wpm)
“I didn’t ask you and that’s an off-limits topic. Did you bring our lunch? That was your responsibility,” I say firmly, closing the discussion.
She narrows her eyes at me. I’ve come to know her well, so I know she’s not upset with me, just nosy and curious about things I refuse to share.
“I’m giving you these thick-ass peanut butter and jelly sandwiches just for that.”
“Oh God, no. Please, I asked you not to make those for me. You use that chunky peanut butter, and you place it on both sides. I can’t stand that in my mouth.”
“Nuts are always good in your mouth.”
Adriano bursts out with a laugh before he can stifle it. I look over at him and glare. He stops laughing audibly but I can see his shoulders shaking and the twinkle in his eyes.
“I wouldn’t know anything about what you’re insinuating. I believe you’re talking about fellatio. I have never had a man’s penis in my mouth, so I can’t give an affirmative to your response.”
Adriano chokes then clears his throat. I look at him and I’m confused by the deep blush in his cheeks. His light-gray eyes are fixed on my lips.
If I’m not mistaken, lust begins to cloud his eyes. I look away, not wanting to see what’s really happening in his thoughts. I already don’t like that I’ve become aware of his attractiveness because Ximena has repeatedly pointed it out.
“I’m going to walk the perimeter. Enjoy your lunch,” he says and walks away.
“That man wants you. I’ve been trying to throw him hints, but he’s totally crushing on you,” Ximena sings as he walks off.
I reach for the rings around my neck as I think of Michael. Our anniversary is coming up soon. I’ve been married for four years.
I haven’t seen my husband in two years. I’ve tried to understand why he doesn’t come to see me. Uri and Annabella come to Boston at least twice a year. Nico even came for my birthday this year.
I was sure Michael would appear when I turned eighteen. He sent a gift and his apologies, but all I wanted was him.
“That will never happen. It is impossible,” I breathe.
“Why?”
“You are my only friend. Why must you always ask me questions that will get you killed?”
Ximena gasps. I lower my gaze to my lap. I didn’t mean to hurt her feelings.
“You don’t joke, so I’m going to back off. I got you a turkey sandwich. I heard you when you said you hate the peanut butter ones.”
“I’m sorry. Some things you are better off not knowing. This is one of those.”
She places my sandwich in front of me and scoots closer to me to place her head on my shoulder as she wraps her arm around my waist.
“I love you, Sim. I only want to make sure you’re not missing something that’s staring you in the face.”
“If what you say is true, I will need to send him back to—I would need to request a replacement.”
“Relax, I don’t think he wants to leave you. He’s not going to tell you how he feels. I’m going to mind my business.”
“Ximena?”
“Yeah, Sim?”
“I love you too. Thank you for being my friend. I like this sandwich. The pickles are delicious.”
She giggles. “That shit is still gross.”
“You have never tried it. How can you say this?”
“I asked you the same thing about sex. What did you tell me?”
I blink as I think her words over. The other girls in school were talking about boys and sex. Ximena asked me why I had been so quiet.
“When it’s for me, I will try it,” I say as I remember my words.
“Exactly. That nasty shit ain’t for me, sugar. I’ll happily make them for you but that’s a no for me.”
My phone rings as I go to respond. I look at the screen to find it’s Michael. A smile comes to my face.
“I have to take this. Please wait for me,” I say and stand.
I walk out of earshot and answer the call. Butterflies fill my belly from knowing it’s him. I take a deep breath to steady my voice so he doesn’t hear how happy I am for his call.
“Hello,” I say.
Michael
I close my eyes as I hear her voice come through the line. Gone is the voice of the young girl I rescued four years ago. Symphony has changed so much.
Her speech still comes off as robotic at times, but she tends to find a rhythm and flow when we speak for long hours. I live for our conversations. Hearing about her friend and her classes always brings a smile to my face.
“Are you busy, cara?” I croon into the phone.
“I am having lunch with Ximena, but I’ve missed our calls. You’ve been busy this week. I haven’t gotten a chance to speak much with you. I hope everything is well.”