Page 22 of The Men of Summer
Not that I’m complaining, but my boyfriend usually shies away from ostentatious choices. It looks like the Ritz-Carlton is an exception to the rule, and I intend to make the most of it.
Because, of course, he had to book a suite… Strike that, it’s called a residence, which is basically a not-so-small house attached to the hotel!
I’m reminded of why he went overboard when our closest friends and relatives’ laughter drifts up from downstairs. They’ve been keeping busy during what was supposed to be nap time, and my headache is miraculously gone thanks to Dante’s TLC.
Dante decided to treat them to this weekend extravaganza on a whim and turn this anniversary celebration into an adults-only retreat: Sully and Susie, Brea and Gael, Farah and Rafaele, as well as Tricia, who became Dante’s BFF over the years.
It’s funny how life works.
We became close friends with Tricia, but Liam’s parents aren’t our cup of tea. They’re not bad people, we just never felt any connection with them. This timeless bubble is ours. A long weekend that’s a mix of bonding and a romantic getaway; it’s perfect for this new chapter in our lives as empty nesters… Downsizing has been on our minds since Jeremy left for Berkeley two years ago. It’s about time we acted on it. All in due time…
My post-coital trip down memory lane is cut short by my phone chiming. Sighing, I grab it from the nightstand and burst out laughing as I read Farah’s text.
Farah
Y’a de l’écho dans les montagnes.
The devil emoticon speaks more than her words.
Oops!
Dante chuckles when I share the news. We’ve learned to embrace who we are to the fullest. Who cares about the echo betraying what we partook in?
Farah
On va se balader. Vous venez?
Amused, I look up and explain, “They’re going for a walk… or a hike, I’m not sure. You game?”
“Sure…” I’m glad that he’s on board, although, just like Brea and Gael, remaining incognito can be a challenge… But then again, he could have picked a more secluded location.
Zayn
On arrive.
“You know,” Dante starts when I press send, “I needed this change of scenery.” He briefly pauses. “It’s strange not celebrating Jeremy’s birthday with him, isn’t it?” He’s right. My man swallows audibly. “First time in twenty years.”
Nineteen to be exact, since he was with his Mom on his first birthday.
His sultry voice is tinged with sadness and also relief. “It’s been incredibly fulfilling to watch him grow up. I’m glad he’s becoming his own person and making new friends while keeping the trio alive.”
I wonder if their friendship will survive their post-college years. Not that the distance is a real issue nowadays…
Jeremy is a strong, reliable, and smart kid. He’s dealt with so much already and has learned to handle hardship, including the most recent one: Dante’sabuela’s passing. I chase the gloomy thought away and return my focus to our son’s achievements. “Yeah, that’s what we wanted for him.”
“How’s your head?”
Shooting him a sly smile, I ask, “Which one?” The corner of his mouth quirks up, and he shakes his head. “Your sexual healing was pretty efficient. I’m ready to explore the area.”
“Come on, then.” He grabs our baseball caps, clasps his hand in mine, and brings my knuckles to his sensual lips for a kiss. I whimper. “Can’t wait to enjoy this weekend with our friends, and I’ll enjoy your exclusive company later tonight, echo or not.” My heart somersaults… His promises don’t go unnoticed.
“Deal!” I kiss his temple. “Thanks for making this happen,amour. It gives us a chance to reconnect, together and with our friends.”
With that, he snatches my hand, and we exit the master bedroom and rush downstairs. Our friends are playing cards, and their happy chatter is way too loud.
I innocently inquire, “Ready, folks?” My question is met with fake complaints about having to wait for us and loud snickers. My sister dares to blow an air kiss my way, so I stick my tongue out at her, retrieve my phone from my short pocket, and suggest in a cheerful voice,
“Group picture!”
