Page 87 of My Spanish Love Affair

It’s going well. Everyone’s been lovely. Miss you, though.

I hesitate before hitting send, the words feeling a tad too vulnerable. It doesn’t help that I’ve had a drink, but it’s hardly as if I’m saying something that’s crossing any boundaries, or that’s too out-there; so without doubting myself any longer, I press the button and send the message.

“So,” Sarah says, leaning in conspiratorially. She’s more than just tipsy, but I can hardly blame her given the fact that she hasn’t drank in so long. “Now that we’re on the topic - tell us what it's like dating Spain’s golden boy.”

The question catches me off guard, but her tone is warm and playful, not prying. She can probably sense that I want to talk about him - even if it’s weird.

“Honestly?” I say, swirling my drink. “It’s... amazing. He’s been nothing short of wonderful. But things are still complicated.”

Marta tilts her head, her expression curious. “Because of themedia?”

I nod. “Yeah. The attention is just - overwhelming. People treat me differently now. It’s like they don’t see me as just Olivia anymore. They see me ashisOlivia. If that makes sense.”

Ana reaches out, her hand warm and reassuring as it wraps around mine. “It does. And it sounds hard,” she says, her voice gentle but laced with genuine concern.

“I mean, I knew being with him would come with some challenges, but I don’t think I was prepared for how quickly everything would change,” I admit. “Sometimes I feel like I’ve lost a part of myself in all of this.”

The table falls quiet, the hum of conversation from the rest of the bar suddenly seeming louder in the silence.

“But,” I continue, glancing down at my drink as I swirl the contents, “Santi’s worth it. He’s...”

I trail off, unsure of how to finish.

How do you even begin to describe someone like Santi?

Marta leans forward, her expression softening. “He’s what?” she prompts gently.

I smile faintly, meeting her gaze. “He’s just...everything. I know it sounds sappy, but he’s kind and thoughtful and patient. He treats me like I’m the most important person in the world, even when it feels like everything is falling apart.”

There’s a beat of silence, and then Ana lets out a dreamy sigh.

“That’s the most romantic thing I’ve ever heard.”

The group chuckles softly, but their laughter is kind, not teasing.

“Seriously,” Marta says, her eyes sparkling with warmth. “It sounds like you’ve found someone really special.”

“I have,” I say. “Sometimes I wonder if I can do it, though. Honestly, I’m not sure that I’m strong enough to handle his world.”

“You’re stronger than you think,” Sarah says firmly, her tone leaving no room for argument. “You’ve already handled so much, Liv, and you’re still standing. That says a lot about who you are.”

I blink, surprised by the sudden lump in my throat. “Thanks,” I murmur, giving her a small smile.

“And let’s not forget,” Ana adds, grinning. “You’ve got us in your corner, too. So if you ever need someone to remind the media to back off, just say the word.”

I smile easily at that. “I’ll keep that in mind.”

“To Olivia,” Marta says, lifting her glass. “For navigating all of this with grace—and for finding someone who clearly adores her.”

“To Olivia!” the others echo, their glasses clinking together.

My cheeks flush, but I can’t help smiling as I raise my own glass.

As the conversation shifts back to lighter topics - funny classroom stories and travel plans for the summer - I glance down at my phone, my heart fluttering when I see another message from Santi.

Miss you more. Should I come pick you up later?

My smile widens as I quickly type out a response.

---