Page 74 of Dario DeLuca

The sun-dappled patio hums with the chatter of weekend brunch-goers as I spot Gabby waving from a table nestled in the corner. Her face lights up, mirroring my joy as we embrace, the familiar scent of her perfume enveloping me like a warm hug. It's been too long since we've had a normal moment to catch up, just the two of us.

"Girl, look at you." Gabby beams, her eyes dancing with glee, the kind that only true friendship can ignite. "It's like you've stepped out of a painting."

“Me? Look at you. Ah-maz-ing as usual.”

We settle into the wicker chairs, the rough fibers pressing into my bare thighs. I catch a glimpse of Renzo scanning the crowd with a sharp intensity. His presence, though discreet, sends a flicker of unease through me—a reminder that even in these stolen moments of normalcy, the shadow of Dario's world is never far behind.

I push the thought aside, focusing instead on Gabby's animated chatter as she fills me in on the latest gossip. The sun bathes us in its generous warmth, the breeze carrying the tantalizing aromas of freshly baked pastries and rich coffee from inside.

A server approaches, her smile bright. "What can I get for you ladies today?"

“We’ll have a carafe of pineapple mimosas for the table and a fruit platter to start,” I say quickly, placing our usual order.

“Very well. I’ll be back with your first round of drinks in a few minutes.” The server departs with our request.

I reach across the table and take my friend's hand, squeezing it.

“It’s been so long since we’ve been able to do something normal,” Gabby states softly.

The last month has been a whirlwind ride for sure.

“I know. If you had told us two months ago that our lives would be flipped upside down like this, we would’ve laughed and said it was all lies. But look at us now, living a life we only read about.”

“Hmm. I wonder who would play me in the movie version?”

We laugh at the absurdity we find ourselves entangled in. The reality is it’s all true.

“So, how are things?” I ask, not knowing if she’s aware of the most recent developments but also not wanting to share any information that will keep her on edge.

The server returns with the two glasses and the carafe of Mimosas, pouring our first drink. Another server brings the fresh fruit tray and sets it on the table.

“Let me know if there is anything else I can get you.”

We acknowledge them with a nod and smile, and they both leave.

“Not much. Rafael, that man is like a guardian angel, I swear.” She stabs at a few pieces of fruit and places them on one of the small plates in front of us.

I arch an eyebrow, curiosity piqued. "Oh? Do tell."

"He's been working overtime to make sure my family is safe, Mia. Ever since that incident with the community center, he's barely left our side. I don't know what I'd do without him."

Hearing her talk about how Rafael’s been there consistently makes my heart swell with gratitude. Knowing that my extended family is being watched comforts me.

I raise an eyebrow, swirling the flute of juice and fizzy champagne. "Oh? Is that all he's protecting?" I tease.

Heat tinges her cheeks as she dissolves into peals of laughter, confirming my suspicions about her new potential relationship with Rafael.

I can't help but laugh, the innuendo hanging in the air between us. "Oh, I bet he's guarding that booty like it's the crown jewels!"

The laughter between us is infectious, mingling with the clinking of silverware and the soft strains of jazz floating from the speakers—a much-needed dose of normalcy. The lightness of the moment hangs between Gabby and me like a delicate bubble, with the fragility of our brief pause in the air.

I set my mimosa down, and beads of condensation race down the flute.

Gabby's gaze meets mine, alight with unspoken questions.

“Honestly, I'm just glad you have someone looking out for you, Gabs. With everything going on, it's good to know you're in safe hands."

Gabby's expression softens, her eyes shimmering with gratitude.

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