Page 27 of Five Goodbyes

“Morning, handsome,” she greets with a warm smile and a gentle kiss on the cheek.

“Good morning, beautiful,” I reply, unable to resist brushing a stray curl from her forehead.

Lucas, Amy, and Isaiah are already gathered around the table, their faces bright as they chat about the previous night's festivities. The dining area is bathed in soft morning light, and the sound of seagulls can be heard in the distance.

“Sit down, I’m just about done,” she tells me. The family isn’t looking, so I give her a quick swat on the butt and a wink before turning and moving to the table. She chuckles as she piles the pancakes on a plate, then soon follows.

We enjoy the delicious breakfast Jasmine prepared, and take turns recounting our favorite moments from the salsa dancing the night before. Isaiah leans forward, his eyes sparkling with mischievousness.

“So, Hunter, how did you manage to get Jasmine on the dance floor? She's always had three left feet!”

I chuckle, recalling the countless hours we've spent practicing moving in sync with the other during the course of our work . . . and in the bedroom. Of course, I play my reply safe.

“Trust me, it's taken a lot of practice. But it's worth it to see her smile.”

Mrs. Andersons chimes in, her voice filled with pride. "You two were absolutely mesmerizing on the dance floor. I don't think I've ever seen Jasmine so happy.”

Jasmine blushes, smiling at her mother. “Well, it's not hard to be happy when you're dancing with the love of your life.”

I’m a bit shocked at the open admission about her feelings to all at the table. Thankfully it doesn’t turn into a deeper conversation as I’m not sure how I’m going to have this conversation with her family yet.

We finish eating, and I clear my throat to announce my plans for the day. “Lucas, Isaiah, I'm taking you guys on a boys' trip around Miami if you’re up for it. We'll explore the vibrant streets of Little Havana.” I pause while giving Jasmine’s dad an evil grin. “That is, unless you’d rather go with Jasmine and Amy to conquer the many boutiques we have.”

Both Lucas and Isaiah look at me with unamused expressions. “Well, that’s a tough decision, but I don’t want to be rude, so I guess we’ll come with you,” Lucas diplomatically says, showing me how he’s the CEO of a multi-billion dollar corporation.

“You’re a wise man, Darling,” Mrs. Anderson says.

“Because I have a very wise teacher,” Lucas says to his wife. She leans over and gives him a kiss. Isaiah groans and Jasmine giggles. We all get up from the table and it takes no time to clean up our morning mess.

It’s soon time to go and I see the excitement in Lucas and Isaiah’s faces as we all give hugs. Then we’re off to see what new adventure awaits us.

The drive to Little Havana is filled with conversation as we make fun of Isaiah for looking like a mouse being let loose in a room full of different cheeses. Lucas and Isaiah are eager to learn more about the local culture, and I can't wait to introduce them to some of my favorite spots in the city. I want them to visit Jasmine as often as possible since I know what her family means to her. That means I need them to fall in love with this place as much as I love it.

Our first stop is Máximo Gómez Park in Little Havana, a bustling cultural hub on historic Calle Ocho. Affectionately known as Domino Park by the locals, it’s named after General Máximo Gómez, a Cuban revolutionary. The atmosphere is always electric, with the sound of laughter and lively conversation filling the air. Elderly men gather around the iconic domino tables, deep in concentration as they strategize their next moves. The park’s adorned with vibrant murals and colorful tiles, creating a captivating backdrop for the ongoing games. As we approach the park, I explain the significance of the area to Lucas and Isaiah.

“Domino Park is a social spot popular with locals. It's a place where they can connect with one another, share stories, and carry on the long-standing tradition of dominoes. I’ve been coming down here for years. As part of my job, it’s always good to become familiar with the locals as soon as possible and to build up trust.”

Lucas nods, his expression eager as we step up to the tables. “Absolutely fantastic, Hunter. It's such a unique, authentic experience. I’ve traveled the world, but I find I enjoy the experience so much more if I’m with a friend who lives in the area and can take me to the local hangouts.”

I lead them to a table where I know some of the elder men who I’ve become close to over the years. They greet me warmly, their faces lighting up with welcoming smiles. “Amigos!” one of them calls out. “¡Vengan a jugar!”

Lucas and Isaiah look to me for translation.

“He's inviting us to play,” I explain, grinning as I pull out a chair, “Come on, sit here.”

Whispers from jealous tourists wave over the park. Most will never get an opportunity to even get close to a table, let alone sit down and play at one.

I introduce Lucas and Isaiah to the men at the tables we sit at. The Cuban men eagerly welcome them, excited to share their passion for the game. They patiently explain the rules and strategies, and it isn’t long before Isaiah finds himself in the thick of a match.

“¡Vamos, joven! ¡Juega rápido!” one of the old men teases Isaiah, urging him to make a move.

I laugh and translate for Isaiah from my table. “He's telling you to hurry up.”

Isaiah sheepishly grins over at me. “I'm trying! This is tougher than it looks.”

As Isaiah continues to play, I explain some more of the strategies to him. “Watch how they play, Isaiah. Each player is trying to block their opponents, and force them to draw more tiles. The key is to read the board and anticipate their moves. Don’t put yourself into a corner or you may never get out of it.”

Lucas, meanwhile, strikes up a conversation with another gentleman observing the game. “This game seems like an essential part of the local culture,” he comments.

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