Page 107 of Unraveling Rain
I hear him cackling behind me as I grab my bag and take the steps two at a time.
“No funny business in the shower, Mr. González!” I warn as he steps in behind me under the spray.
He pouts. I kiss him anyway.
“We’ll have fun tonight,” I whisper against his lips.
His smile turns wicked. “I’ll take you up on that.”
Chapter 29
Rain
As Xander parks on Harbor Road, I rub my damp palms over my dress, trying to get rid of the sweat. It’s white with small blue flowers—simple, long, and flowy, with delicate spaghetti straps. Tan sandals complete the look, and I’ve let my hair loose to air dry.
I’m a bundle of nerves as we walk toward the eatery his parents own.
It doesn’t take long to spot the place. There’s a shop out front framed by palm trees and a beautiful canoe, withCaribbean Dreams hand-painted in red, yellow, and green across the sign. It looks straight out of a movie—soft waves, bright colors, and energy that feels alive. It’s a work of art.
As we step inside, the scent of coconut wraps around me like a welcome hug. I feel instantly transported to the Caribbean.
Pictures of beaches and forts cover the walls. The air is warm but comfortable, and a faint breeze from the ceiling fans rustles my hair.
There’s soft music playing, something I can’t quite place, but it’s upbeat and makes me want to sway my hips.
This place is a total experience. I haven’t seen the menu, and I already know the food is going to be amazing.
Then, something catches my eye—a wall dedicated entirely to Xander. My heart bursts with pride as I make a beeline for it.
The first photo shows a grinning Xander, maybe around ten years old, swallowed up by an oversized hockey uniform. A few others show him with his dad at various games. But the centerpiece is from draft day—Xander flanked by his parents, proud smiles on their faces.
I press my hands to my chest, overwhelmed by emotion. I commit to memory his many achievements. This man I love has lived such a full life, and somehow, I get to be part of it.
A warm hand wraps around my waist. I look up at him, my voice thick with affection. “You’re incredible. Did you know that?”
He smiles, shy and sweet, but doesn’t say anything.
“Sam, they’re here!” a woman calls out.
Xander’s hand slips from my waist, and he turns and rushes into his mother’s arms.
I can’t help but smile at the scene. He lifts her off the ground like she weighs nothing, and she clings to him like she’s never letting go.
I can’t imagine not seeing Mama for long periods of time. Maybe once I’m settled in Raleigh, I’ll invite Xander’s parents down for a home game.
“Eh,hijo. Finally,” booms his father, joining the hug.
After a few words I can’t catch, Xander hugs his dad separately, the two of them clapping each other’s backs.
A wave of nostalgia rises in my chest. What I wouldn’t give for one more hug with Daddy. I think about him every single day.
Xander turns and extends a hand toward me. I walk straight to him, gripping it like a lifeline.
“Mom, Dad—this is Rain, my girlfriend,” he says, pride and joy lacing his every word.
“It’s so good to meet you, Rain. I’m Kristine,” his mom says, pulling me into a warm hug. “Welcome. We’re so glad you could join us.”
I hesitate for just a second before hugging her back.
