Page 59 of Amor in the 305

I recount Saturday night’s events up until Sol left me standing in the middle of the street like a stray dog.

“No puedo creerlo mi hermano,” he says, his voice a low whisper. I can’t believe it either and the shock still hasn’t worn off.

This new reality that’s my life is something I’ll need to learn how to navigate. I haven’t heard from Analia or Yanelis since Saturday, and I’m worried about it. I don’t want Yanelis to poison Analia with lies about me. I’ve called some people to see if anyone knows Yanelis’ phone number or where I can find her but so far, I’ve not had any luck. Add Sol to the mix and it’s what we Cubans call anarroz con mango—basically a clusterfuck!

To make matters worse, Sol has been ignoring my calls and texts. She’s away for work and I don’t know where she is, or I’d show up and try to make things right. All I can hope is Sol will hear me out and understand the truth, that I love her.

CHAPTER TWENTY-SEVEN

Soledad

Six days later

The last week has been good for my soul. Work has kept my mind occupied throughout the day and then I was able to end each day with a gorgeous sunset and the sand between my toes. If only I could also say I’ve come to terms with Amaury being married and he and I are no longer.

I had been guarding my heart something fierce since Carmine fucked with my head. When I moved to Miami, I was reluctant to open up to Amaury, but he schmoozed his way in with his sweet words, a thick accent that caresses my skin like a feather, and slow lovemaking, which ignites me from the core. There was no hope in escaping him or the spell he put me under until last week when a young girl with his vibrant green eyes stared at me as she stood next to his wife.

His wife. The thought of him being married crushes me.

The trial I was working on ended late last night and so I stayed an extra night. After having a late breakfast, I pack my bag and retrieve my car from the valet.

Before driving off, I decide to text Dayi and ask her to meet me for dinner.

Sol:Trial is over & I’m driving back to MIA – dinner tonight?

Almost instantly, Dayi replies.

Dayi:YES – LOTS to catch up on.

She doesn’t know what happened with Amaury, so I wonder what we’re catching up on.

Sol:Perfect.Las Vacas? I’m in the mood for steak.

Las Vacas Gordasis hands-down my favorite Argentine steakhouse in Miami Beach, although I’m usually dining with Amaury when I go. I love the name too, The Fat Cows. Even the décor of the restaurant resembles black and white cows. The steak is mouthwatering, and they make the best fries I’ve ever had. They don’t get any fresher. A potato slicer cuts the potato into shoestring fries, and they’re fried to crispy perfection. Whether you order them regular ora la provenzal—what Argentines call fries with fresh garlic and parsley—they’re phenomenal!

Dayi:Steak and wine. Sounds like a perfect night. See you at 7ish?

I glance at my watch and it’s just past noon. Even with hitting Miami traffic, I have plenty of time.

Sol:See you then. oX

It took me nearly four hours to get home. Once in South Florida, traffic was intense. It was a slow crawl until I reached the beach. I thought Boston traffic was heavy, but Miami is way worse. Plus, the drivers here are terrible!

After getting home, I unpack and relax on my couch until it’s time to meet Dayi for dinner. I haven’t picked up myTwilightbook in over a week and need to know what’s happening with Bella and Edward.

Two hours later and I realize I was so consumed with my book I lost track of time and now I’m gonna be late. I quickly wash up, throw on some jeans, a tank, and a jean jacket, and swipe some lipstick across my lips. After locking up I strap on my helmet before starting my Vespa. How I missed my Roxy. Twenty minutes later I park her next to a few other mopeds.

Sol:Just parked. Will get us a table & wine.

The man at the door recognizes me and seats me at a table near the window.

Dayi:See you in 15.

Here I was rushing to be on time, and Dayi is late. Should’ve known she runs on Miami time. When Dayi walks into the restaurant I’m already sipping my wine.

“Hey,chica,” she says, kissing me hello.

“Sorry, it’s been a rough week, and this wine was calling my name.” I sip from my glass as she settles into her seat.

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