Page 86 of Meet Again

“How are you?” Mrs. Morales smiles at me. “Is life in the big city all it seems?” Her charming accent makes me smile.

I’ve missed this. I’ve missed the woman standing beside me with a tentative smile. Lex was so much more than just a high school girlfriend. I always envisioned a future with her.

“It’s hectic and demanding,” I chuckle.

“Nothing like a slower pace,” Mr. Leon says.

“That’s true,” I nod.

“And my beautiful niña, to make you want to take things slower.” She winks conspiratorially.

“Abuela!” Lex yells with wide eyes. Her face turns a deep shade of red as she stares at her grandmother.

I let out a deep laugh. “That’s also true,” I nod and wink at Lex.

“Oh my goodness.” She covers her face and turns to her mom while mumbling, “No more sangria for you.”

My laugh only grows louder. When her eyes collide with mine, they hold me captive. After the past couple of weeks and the gift I gave her last night, she shouldn’t feel embarrassed. She knows what I feel for her.

“It’s true, Alexa. That big city can’t offer him you, and you’re the best thing he could have,” Mrs. Morales lifts her eyebrows in a challenge—one I don’t intend to take.

“It’s true,” I nod.

Her grandmother starts talking in Spanish, and I’m lost. Tristan looks at me with raised eyebrows, and I shrug.

“Don’t worry, boys, she’s just letting Lex know that she’s the elder in the family and can have sangria whenever she wants.” Mr. Leon laughs and leans back in his seat at the table.

“Sounds more intense,” Tristan comments.

“That’s just the Cuban flare—loud and passionate. Don’t let it fool you. She’ll be laughing in a second.” Right on cue, Lex says something to her grandmother that has her chuckling.

“Can I get you something to drink?” Bianca looks over at us.

“I’ll try some of that sangria,” Tristan smirks at Lex’s grandmother.

“Good choice.” She nods.

“How about you, Hudson?” Lex looks at me.

“I’ll have some as well.” Normally fruitier drinks aren’t my favorite, but this seems to be popular.

We all have a drink before dinner. The house smells of saltiness and garlic plus a combination of herbs. It makes my mouth water. Knowing Lex’s family, dinner will be delicious. Cuban food is always great, and her mom’s got a knack for cooking.

As Tristan tells them about his time abroad, I allow myself a second to feel this moment. We never had this type of gathering in my house. Everything had to be perfect. Drinks were practically served before guests arrived. It was stuffy and calculated and suffocating. It’s part of what I love about Lex and my friends. Their families were different. They all felt like home, not a made-up picture to impress others.

Not to mention the woman who stole my heart back then always made me feel safe and wanted. Something I wish she would’ve felt reciprocated. It makes me question why I chose to stay in New York instead of fighting for what I truly wanted—a life with her, a career I enjoy, and a lifestyle I could be proud of. Family obligations down the gutter.

I smile at Lex when I catch her looking at me. A sweet and shy smile lifts the corners of her lips before she takes a sip of her drink. I reach for her hand under the table and lock my fingers with hers—her body trembles, causing my grin to widen.

She’s stolen my heart once again, although I question if she ever returned it after our break-up four years ago.

Her thumb brushes against the side of my hand, and I look at her. Her expression is full of peace and happiness and intensity—a myriad of emotions that captivate me. Sparks travel between us, and I wish I could grab her face and kiss her.

“Lex?” She blinks away and looks at her mom.

“I’m sorry.”

“When do you leave for the dance conference?”

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