Page 135 of Outspoken

I’d never kick him out, only let him decide.

As we stare off, Amber intervenes, stepping between us with her hands out. “Uh, hey, let’s all rewind here. I’m sure Miguel was just curious where you were going to make sure you’re safe.” She glances at me.

I nod and Angel rolls his eyes.

“Where are you going?” she asks him. “If you can wait until after Mass and the burial, I’d like to come, especially if you’re going somewhere with food.”

“There’s a reception with food,” Angel tells her.

“Oh. Well, I’d still like to go with you after the burial.”

“Me, too,” I say, the words coming out before I can think.

Angel eyes me suspiciously. “I’m not waiting. I liked Marta, but no one wants me here. I’m leaving now.”

My mouth slips open as I stare, torn between staying for the burial and this rare opportunity to connect with Angel. He didn’t say I couldn’t come, only that he’s leaving now, and I know nothing I say will convince him to stay.

As I’m trying to respond, Angel huffs and turns to leave. “Told you he’s fake,” he comments to Amber.

“Wait,” I say, not entirely sure why I’m doing this but I can’t stop myself. “We’ll come now. Where are we headed?”

“Are you sure?” Amber asks, touching my arm. “What about the burial?”

I glance at the church doors, a strange feeling washing over me.

“Trust, mi cielito. When you trust and listen, you’ll see what’s best.”

Maribel will bepissedwhen she realizes I disappeared, and I’m sure I’ll get disapproving looks from several family members, but there’s something nudging me to go with Amber and Angel. I can’t explain it, but I know deep down that Mom would want this.

“I’m sure,” I say with a strong stance. I look at Amber. “Did you come with Brody and Paige?”

She nods.

“I’ll text Brody and give you a ride home if needed. I’m sure they’ll understand.”

Amber nods again and then walks to Angel, patting his shoulder. “Sound good?”

He growls at me. “Whatever. I was going to the beach.”

She smiles at both of us, her blue eyes shinning. “Then let’s all go to the beach.”

Chapter Thirty-Two

Miguel

A SEAGULL FLIES OVERHEAD AND lands in a flock of other birds. A few are picking at an unlucky crab at the water’s edge. Angel grabs a rock and tosses it at the group to watch them scatter. Only a few flap away. The rest don’t seem to care. Angel frowns and throws another rock.

I drove the three of us to the beach, and before he got out, he pulled his hoodie on. Today is in the 80s, so he has to be hot in that thing, but he likes to hide himself. The hood is up, obscuring his face in shadows. I can’t tell if he’s happy to be here or annoyed that I came along.

He’s a few paces ahead, strolling along like a gray storm cloud, while Amber and I keep a few paces behind. I’m closest to the water, my shiny black dress shoes getting wet from the waves. From the corner of my eye, I catch Amber gazing at me. When she notices me watching, she tries to play it off by looking at the sky.

I stuff my hands in my slacks. Maybe I’m nuts for ditching my own mom’s burial, but this is the first time I’ve felt comforted and peaceful since she passed. With the sand and surf around me, I’m not constantly reminded that she’s gone, only lost in the ocean vibes. Lost in Amber’s energy.

We haven’t spoken since we got here, but it’s cool. I’m content with soaking in the silence with her. Being together like this isn’t making it easier for my heart to move on, but I don’t care right now. I’m grateful she’s here.

I need this time with my love.

I also like being with Angel out of the house, even though he wishes I’d drown in the ocean. I really don’t get why he keeps calling me fake. I’m open and honest. How is that fake?

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