Page 66 of Bound and Blitzed

I chuckle at Raia and Cohen’s exchange.

“You think this is funny?” My mother’s voice pulls me back to the present and I drop my phone. It clatters across the countertop.

I suck in a breath and face my family. “Merry Christmas! I had no idea you were all coming, or we would have?—”

“Not been in the shower together?” Ale interjects.

I frown at him. “Exactly. Not that it should be shocking—a husband and a wife, showering together. Don’t you do that with the random women you meet, Ale, who?—”

“Enough,” Mamá bites out, giving my brother a look.

Ale sighs and laces his fingers behind his head, looking at me as if he can’t believe I just snapped at him. That’s Carla’s role. I’m the sister who is docile and agreeable.

“It’s nice to see you, Ale,” I say instead, moving closer to kiss his cheeks in greeting.

I kiss my parents hello and while they reciprocate, their body language is stiff and awkward. Hardly the warm embraces I’m accustomed to.

Only Carla hugs me tightly, whispering in my ear, “I got your back.”

I smile at her in thanks.

Moving to Avery’s side, I lace my fingers with his. My brother’s eyes narrow on our clasped hands. Papá studies Avery, and Mamá’s eyes are glued to me.

“I’m happy you’re here,” I tell them and as I say the words I realize they’re partly true. While I wish I had more warning of their arrival, I am happy to see them. I missed them. “I really want you to meet my husband, Avery.”

“We’ve met,” Papá says coolly. “The fact that you married without telling any of us?—”

“I told you!” I interject.

Mamá huffs and glances away.

“This is the most reckless, irresponsible thing you’ve ever done, Vale. I cannot believe you. I came to see with my own eyes and…” Papá trails off. “I cannot believe this. I will not accept this.” He gestures between Avery and me.

“This was a mistake, Valentina. You hardly know this man and you think playing house for a few weeks constitutes a marriage?” My mother’s voice is hard. Unyielding.

“Come,” Papá says, standing. “Pack your things. You are coming with us to Chicago. And then, home. It’s clear you need to be back home, with your family, and?—”

“With all due respect, sir,” Avery cuts in, “I’m also Lena’s family.”

“Lena?” Ale scoffs.

Carla shoots him a look.

“Valentina and I are married. She’s my wife,” Avery continues. “Now while I regret not calling to ask for your blessing in advance, I won’t apologize for falling so deeply in love with your daughter that I was caught up in the moment. My parents weren’t thrilled with the way we married either. And I understand that you don’t know me. I’d like the chance to get to know you, to prove to you that I care about and respect Valentina, and that I’m not going anywhere. We’re family now,” he states.

“You say this now,” my father replies, his voice rising with his anger. “But what about when you’re traveling for your games? You think I don’t know the life you live? I’ve lived it.” He smacks a hand against his chest. “I’ve seen Ale live it. The women, the temptations, the glory.”

Mamá averts her gaze.

“No man is immune to the charms of the lifestyle. Not forever,” Papá bites out bitterly.

“I respect you, Mr. Garcia,” Avery says evenly. “I also love and respect my wife.” He squeezes my fingers. “And I’ve already lived this life for many years. I’m not interested in the women, the temptations, or the glory anymore. I just want my wife, my family.”

A muscle in Alejandro’s jaw tics at this. My brother crosses his arms over his chest and studies Avery thoughtfully.

“Get your things, Vale,” Mamá repeats.

I suck in a breath. Pins and needles cause my legs to grow numb and my palms to tingle. A shiver travels up my spine. This is it. I have a choice to make, and the consequences of my decision terrify me. Still, when I open my mouth, I’m relieved my voice is clear. “No.”

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