Clutch Hit by Faith O'Shea (most popular ebook readers txt) 📗

doesn’t make any sense. It comes out of the blue sometimes. I couldn’t stand Alec, but the physical chemistry between us was nuts. Only when I gave in, got to know him did I realize I couldn’t live without him.”

Fuck. If that was supposed to make her feel better, Jelani had failed. She’d pretty much told her that sex with Mateo could lead her even deeper into the quagmire. Her emotions shifted like the patterns of a kaleidoscope, need to want, to hope and tenderness, dejection and despair, her heart tethered to them all by the image of one man.

“Love also has many definitions. I’m not sure mine translates well.”

“No matter what it is, if it works for you, you’ll be fine.”

Jelani’s phone rang, pulling her away from the conversation. It sounded as if Alec was on the other end of the connection, and Allie could hear the sublime happiness in her voice when she answered.

She turned her head and leaned it against the window, closing her eyes to block out the dark clouds that cluttered the sky.

The six-hour flight was smooth and without incident. She listened as the wheels eased down, felt the plane touch the surface and glide across the tarmac. The airfield was open to the elements, palm trees swaying like hula dancers along the perimeter as if they were planted as welcoming committee. She could hear the steps rumbling toward the door of the plane, saw one of the flight attendants opening the hatch, felt the commotion as passengers stood getting ready to disembark, passports and tourist cards clutched in their hands.

The pilot had come out to thank them for traveling Jet Blue and wished them a sun-kissed time.

She smiled politely and followed Jelani down the steps, her flip-flops slapping the asphalt, the heat warming her from the soles of her feet to the tip of her head. It was a welcome change from the cold of the last month in New England.

Jelani apparently agreed. “I love the sun. I’ll use just about any excuse to get me some.”

In stunned surprise Allie said, “You mean we didn’t have to fly here?”

Jelani shifted her luggage from one hand to the other, shifting moods as well. More seriously, she said, “I truly believe this is the best way to secure Mariposa’s visa, but it’s always nice when there’s a side benefit. Come on. I can’t wait to get my first glimpse of this place.”

The debarkation line moved slowly as passports were stamped and tourist cards checked. They were asked a few curt questions about who they were meeting with and where they were staying. There was a nod by the agent, and when they were finally released, they headed right for the door. Just outside, a row of classic American cars sat along the curbside, waiting to pick up a fare. A driver jumped out of the first one in line, which was the color of mustard, grabbed their bags and welcomed them. The grille was rusted, but otherwise it was in pristine condition.

“Buenos noches, senoritas.”

Jelani answered him in his mother tongue before climbing into the roomy back seat. One of the few words Allie understood in the babble of Spanish was the name of the hotel they were staying at.

The vintage Chevy drove like a dream, and she knew it had taken a lot to keep it in such good shape. As it glided down the main street, it was like she’d been carried inside a painting, the buildings a montage of pastels, pinks, blues, and yellows, creating a festive mood. With the windows down, they became part of the musical street scene, bongos in syncopated rhythm, the guitars expressive, proving that music pervaded the culture. Her heart thrummed in tune with it. It was a vibrant city, the energy high, the pedestrians walking, a swing to their hips. This was where Mateo had come from. Had he walked down these streets? Stopped at one of the open markets? Danced to the salsa beat openly and with abandon?

Suddenly, she couldn’t contain her excitement. This was a world she’d only viewed through the prism of American opinion, and she was more than ready to gain a new perspective.

As they pulled up to the hotel, she couldn’t believe the historical appeal. It was a pale yellow in color with a mint-green trim that looked charming, but it was massive, sitting along two streets and almost a half a block long. Balconies hung from each window, the brick façade clean and bright. She knew poverty lived just down the street and the hotel staff would probably return to it every night after work. It took some of the gloss off it, but she didn’t have time to think more about the discrepancies. Just inside the door of the lobby, a woman stood as if waiting. Her black hair was pulled back in a bun, highlighting her cheekbones and showcasing large gold hoop earrings. It was the eyes that gave her away as Mariposa Arteaga. They were the same obsidian as Mateo, and like the son, her bearing was proud. Her teeth flashed in a brilliant smile when she reached out to embrace her.

“You are Alicia. It is so good to meet my son’s wife. I know you didn’t expect me until tomorrow, but I couldn’t wait.”

The openness of her delight surprised Alicia. Mariposa had thought nothing of invading her personal space and exchanging hugs and kisses. She hadn’t meant to, but she’d stiffened, causing Mariposa to ease back and away from her.

“You’ll have to forgive me my forwardness. We live out in the open, in doorways, on the street, and you are not used to this. But Mateo has told me so little and I want to know so much.”

Allie reached out and took her hand, embarrassed by her initial reticence.

“Please there’s nothing to forgive. It’s nice to meet you.” She scanned the area, the old busts, antique fixtures, centuries-old architectural elements. “I thought I was prepared for this, but