Page 24 of Snow Good to Lose
“A toast to old friends and new opportunities.” We clinked glasses. He threw his head back and downed his drink. Caden and I took a sip. The bubbles tickled my nose. The liquid was crisp with a hint of sweetness. I took another sip. It reminded me of my old life, in a good way.
“Carlos.” Caden raised his glass. “Thank you for welcoming us into your home.”
“Don’t thank me yet, my friend.” He poured himself another drink and clinked glasses with Caden before downing it. “Let’s get you out of this mess, first. Shall we?”
Carlos grinned wider. It made me smile.
“Perhaps we can renew our game of blackjack while you’re here.” Carlos patted Caden’s shoulder.
“Sounds good, but first Amari and I need to get cleaned up and maybe get some rest while you and your crew celebrate.” Caden sat his glass down. “A new business opportunity, was it? You’ll have to tell me all about it.”
“I will. I know how much you enjoy my tall tales.” Carlos winked. “Miguel, will you show our guest to the east wing?” Carlos turned back to us. “It is on the other side of the house. No one will disturb you. Join me for breakfast in the morning, say, around 9 o’clock.”
“Sounds good.” Caden extended his hand and Carlos shook it and pulled him in for a hug.
Carlos leaned over and kissed my cheek. His wet lips lingered on my skin. He smelled of champagne and cigar smoke.
“I am honored to come to your rescue. Please know you are safe in my home.” He gestured toward his house. “Buenos noches.”
I nodded and smiled.
Miguel escorted us through the house. He walked so fast I barely took it all in. Carlos’ home was opulent and masculine, but comfortable.
“Is Carlos married?” Caden looked back to me.
“I don’t think so.” He tightened his grip on my hand. “Why, you interested?”
“Just curious.” I grinned up at him.
We climbed up a narrow staircase and proceeded down another long hallway. Miguel unlocked the door at the end of the hall. He pushed it open, stood to the side, and motioned for us to enter with a slight bow.
I crossed the threshold. Our bags already sat on a small tan couch to the right. To the left was a king-size bed covered in a brocade burgundy comforter and a dozen throw pillows.
“Nice.” I walked toward the bed and ran my hand along the patterned bed covering. Caden scanned the room. He headed through another door next to the bed.
“Is the bathroom secure?” I teased as he walked out and over to our bags.
“I trust you have everything you need. If not, please pick up the phone and let Elena know what you want.” Miguel walked through the open balcony door. “Carlos has taken upon himself to provide dinner out on the balcony. You must be hungry.” I headed toward the balcony. Caden stepped in front of me, shaking his head.
“Thank you, Miguel.” Caden turned toward Miguel.
He nodded and closed the door behind him. Caden and I stood stock still and listened. I half expected him to lock us in.
He didn’t.
“What’s wrong?” I tugged on Caden’s shirt.
“Nothing,” He walked out onto the balcony and returned with the tray of food. “Just stay off the balcony.”
He sat the tray on the coffee table and lifted the dome cover.
I kneeled on the floor.
“It smells amazing.” The steak and onions made my mouth water. I plucked a piece of steak into my mouth. I grabbed an empanada and broke it open. Steam escaped along with an aroma of pulled pork and spices. I took a bite and groaned. “This is so good.” I spoke with my mouth full.
Caden smirked and handed me a bottle of water. He had a bottle of champagne under his arm.
“In case we want to celebrate, too.” He sat the champagne on the side table, removed the overstuffed duffle bags, and flopped down on the couch.
