Page 25 of The No Falling Rule
“That’s how it usually goes,” he says, shrugging.
His words catch me off guard. I stare at him, half convinced I imagined them. How can someone do a complete one-eighty in a matter of minutes?
His face is calm now, a hint of a smile curving his lips. “I’m sorry about what I said a moment ago,” he says softly. “I just wanted to see for myself if you were real about this. I had a conversation with Eva after you left the rehearsal. She reminded me how we met.” The smile grows, softening his usually sharp features. I think it’s the first time I’ve seen my brother smile like that in years.
“Yeah? How did you meet?” I ask, suddenly curious.
I was ten the first time he brought her home, too young to hang out with the adults. I didn’t really get to know my sister-in-law until college.
I was a little ass during my teen years—angry, restless, always on the outside looking in. Everyone else in the house was an adult, and I was just the kid who had to do as I was told.
“I was on a business trip,” Armando starts, “and stopped by a bar to blow off some steam. I was twenty-five—cocky, full of confidence I hadn’t earned yet.”
He glances toward the main table, where Eva’s laughing with Mia. “She was the bartender that night. I thought I could flirt my way into her bed, but she told me she’d only consider a date if I helped her man the bar.”
I laugh at the image, and my brother joins in.
“Yeah, I worked the whole night for free,” he says, grinning. “Then sent flowers and jewelry for a month before she finally called me. It took her that long to agree to go out with me—but it took me one night to know she was the woman I wanted to spend the rest of my days with.”
“So what are you trying to say?” I ask, half-teasing, half-wary. I can’t believe he’s comparing my story to his.
“All I’m saying is I see the way your face changes when you talk about her—the way your whole body hums when she’s near.” Armando points at me, and Ishake my head. There’s no way he noticed all that in the two minutes we’ve been here.
“Don’t bullshit a bullshitter,” I tell him. “This is literally the first time you’ve seen us together.”
“Is it?” he counters, raising a brow. “We were at the marina today when you two came back on the catamaran.”
I swallow hard. I didn’t realize we had an audience. But the more I think about it, the less I care. Let them see. I’m proud to have Mia by my side.
I move to stand behind her. She turns, gives me a small wave, and her body relaxes against mine. It’s such a simple thing, but it hits deep. How can something this new already feel so good?
“Did you have a nice talk with Eva?” I ask, sliding an arm around her waist.
“I did.” A playful smile curves her lips.
“Care to share what about?” I chuckle, pressing a quick kiss to her cheek before stepping back, already missing her warmth.
“Well, the usual. She asked what I do for a living, where I live…” Mia trails off as I help her into her seat.
Dinner is served, but before I can ask more, my niece stands with a microphone in hand.
“I wanted to thank everyone for being here for Jaime and me,” Violeta starts. “This resort holds a special place in my heart, and Jaime being part Dominican makes it even more special.” She beams at her fiancé before turning to her parents. “I wouldn’t be here without the two of you. Thank you for always giving me everything and more.”
She pauses, smiling sweetly before her next words cut sharp. “Now, if I could ask for one more thing—I’d appreciate it if we didn’t allow strangers into my festivities. It takes away from the vibe I want at my wedding.”
Gasps are heard throughout the room, and everyone looks around for the suspected intruder.
What the hell is wrong with Violeta?
Jaime tugs her down to her chair, and she glares at him.
He stands, and after clearing his throat, he says, “I apologize if my bride’s words offended anyone. She’s had a very stressful day, and I think she’s become hangry.”
Laughter echoes through the room, but the damage is done. Mia won’t look at me.
“We’re sure everyone is here to celebrate our love, and that’s all that matters.” A round of applause follows his words, and he sits, feeling pleased with his work.
“Yes, I’m sorry. I don’t know what came over me,” Violeta apologizes as she dabs a tissue over her eyes.
