Chapter 14%
The weekend sun was warm and golden and Plaza de la Aurora Marina was busier than usual. Life in Puerto Vendaval moved at a much slower pace compared to back home, something Ashley had initially struggled with. But over time, she had begun to appreciate the change.N
Since switching to a new phone, she had been able to distance herself from everything she left behind. The slower lifestyle had eased much of her anxiety–except for Zoe’s constant disruptions.”
Maybe it was the laid–back atmosphere, or maybe Zoe had always been this way, but lately, the things coming out of her mouth were becoming increasingly outrageous.N
Thinking back to last night at the bar, Ashley let out a sigh, pressing her fingers to her temple.”
Zoe had been on a roll, partying hard and, at one point, ordering drinks and eight male models. One minute, she was playfully poking abs, the next, she was casually holding hands with another. Meanwhile, Ashley had sat stiffly to the side, feeling like a schoolgirl who had wandered into the wrong crowd.
“Don’t tell me this is how bars always are here,” Ashley muttered.”
Zoe, noticing her disapproving look, sighed dramatically and shook her head.”
Taking a slow sip of whiskey, she gave Ashley a look of pure disappointment.”
“Ash, you’ve been around that asshole Max for way too long. Who made the rule that women can’t enjoy some eye candy?”
“Tsk, I’m basically a saint, blessing the world’s pretty boys with my generosity. I’m giving them money, not messing with their feelings and I’m certainly not trying to take advantage of them.“”
She hiccupped, raising her glass as if making a toast–to herself.”
Zoe’s cheeks were flushed as she pointed at Ashley.
“You just haven’t dated enough. That’s the problem. Lucky for you, you ran into me in Puerto Vendaval.”
“Dating is something you need to do while you’re young. Right now, you’ve got the looks, the body and the money. If you don’t enjoy it now, you’ll regret it when you’re older and options start running out.””
“Don’t end up like my cousin–good–looking but a total waste of potential.“}
She let out a dramatic sigh. “Even the stray dogs wouldn’t give him a second glance.“}
Then, shaking her head, she muttered, “That woman who dumped him really messed him up.“>
Ashley’s lashes trembled slightly. “What happened to him?” she asked, trying to sound casual.”
“I think he has full–blown women issues now. He’s been in Puerto Vendaval for years and not once has he dated anyone.“[
Then, as if struck by sudden realization, Zoe gasped, her face twisting in horror.”
“Oh god. What if he’s turned gay?“}
Ashley’s heart clenched, her jaw instinctively tightening. If that were true, then she had really, really screwed up.
She exhaled slowly, her gaze drifting to the distant fountain.”
Lost in thought, she never noticed the Border Collie charging toward her from behind -until it tackled her flat onto the grass.
She gasped, still shaken, as she tried to push herself up–only to be stopped by the Border Collie, which, instead of backing off, eagerly licked her face as if she were a long–lost friend.
“Chiquito, stop.”
A man’s voice interrupted the moment. It was calm yet edged with concern.”
Ashley turned toward the sound, squinting against the sunlight. His face was obscured by the glare, but she could make out his tall frame striding toward her, a frisbee clutched in one hand.
“Did he scare you? He’s usually not like this.” His voice was smooth, cool–like a gentle ocean breeze. Just like she remembered.
For a moment, Ashley’s breath hitched. Before she could fully process what was happening, he had already reached her, steady hands helping her to her feet.
“I’m fine,” she murmured.
Chiquito, however, wasn’t done. The dog happily circled her legs, then flopped onto his back, flashing his fluffy white. belly in a shameless bid for attention.
Ashley, a total sucker for anything soft and adorable, found herself completely distracted.
Alejandro watched her, his usual indifferent expression barely shifting, though his fingers absently rubbed together, as if still feeling the warmth of her skin through her clothes.!!
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Noticing the way her gaze stayed locked onto Chiquito, he tilted his head slightly before saying,
“Do you want to play with him? Looks like he’s already chosen you.”
Ashley’s eyes lit up.
Taking the cue, Alejandro flicked the frisbee across the grass. In an instant, Chiquito sprang to life, darting after it and expertly catching it midair before trotting back, tail wagging triumphantly.
“Good boy.”%
The man gave a lighthearted compliment and Chiquito, energized by the praise, became even more excited. His strong legs tensed as he crouched low, eyes locked onto the frisbee in Alejandro’s hand, ready to spring into action.
“Want to give it a try?“”
Alejandro’s voice was smooth and casual, but beneath his composed exterior, a thin layer of sweat formed on his back. He extended the frisbee toward Ashley, his fingers tightening slightly as he waited for her reaction.”
