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Standing before the hacienda's imposing entrance, I'm captivated by the massive wooden doors guarding its secrets. Their beauty, accentuated by the soft glow of the lanterns flanking them, invites me into a world far removed from my own past experiences.
"They're beautiful," I whisper, a sentiment that deepens as we step into the grand foyer, greeted by a painting that captures the essence of a sacred moment.
"What is this?" I inquire, my curiosity piqued by the artwork's solemn beauty.
"It's Jesus in the Garden of Gethsemane," Marco explains, his voice tinged with reverence. "It was my mama's favorite." His words, laden with love and loss, draw me closer, compelling me to bridge the gap between us with a tender kiss.
Laughter echoes from somewhere within the hacienda, pulling us from our moment of shared solitude. Marco's assurance washes over me, dispelling the nerves that threaten to take hold. "Inés and Bella already love you," he says, his confidence infectious. "And Lucy…well, she's just a baby."
Hand in hand, we venture deeper into the hacienda, the corridor's brick archways framing views of the lush gardens that captivate my heart. I hadn't dared to imagine the beauty, a tranquil oasis that feels worlds away from the life I've known.
The path leads us to an open courtyard, where a large dining table sits beneath the stars, surrounded by family. Their warm smiles and open arms welcome us. The women—Inés and Bella, one cradling a baby girl—rush to my side, their genuine affection settling my nervous heart. Little Lucy's innocence starkly contrasts the complexities of the world she's born into.
As we stand in the warm embrace of the hacienda's gardens, Bella is the first to break the ice with her striking golden brownish-blonde hair and honey eyes. "I'm Bella," she says, gently squeezing my hand, her warmth radiating through her touch.
Then Inés, cradling little Lucy in her arms, introduces herself. "And this is Lucy," she adds, her thick English accent contrasting with Bella's but reminiscent of mine. I can't help but admire Inés's radiant beauty and the curves that seem to define her essence, contrasting my more slender frame.
"Thank you both for such a warm welcome," I respond, genuinely touched by their kindness.
Diego and Gabriel soon join us, offering their greetings with genuine smiles. As Diego takes Lucy into his arms, my gaze finds Marco, who is with his dad, silently communicating my hope that we will share the joys and responsibilities of parenthood equally. Knowing we are together, I feel a rush of love for him.
With an intuitive gesture, Bella takes one arm while Inés takes the other. "Come, let's walk," Bella suggests, her voice light. "You probably need it after that long flight."
"Yes, and you can tell us everything," Inés chimes in, her empathy evident in her tone.
Giggling, I reply, "I desperately need to stretch my legs. And 'everything' is quite a lot, isn't it?"
Their laughter heals my soul. Bella then says, "I can only imagine what you might feel. Heck, I'm half Mexican, and even after a decade here, there are times I still feel like an outsider."
Inés's voice softens as she adds, "You've been through so much recently. I'm sorry for your losses and for everything you've had to endure."
Taking a deep breath, I am struck by their sincerity and empathy. "Thank you, both of you," I say, my voice thick with emotion. "I'm managing, and Marco has been an incredible support through it all."
Their smiles warm my heart. "We're so glad you have each other," Inés says, her words wrapping around me like a warm blanket.
Bella and Inés make me feel like I belong.
Chapter Twenty-Nine
Pia
The months have flown by since we arrived in Guadalajara. While I've grown to love the vibrant culture here, my relationship with spicy food remains complicated. Sitting comfortably, with Marco attending to my swollen feet, I can't help but voice my current dilemma. "I'm so hungry, but there's just no more room," I lament, then add with a smirk, "and I'm ridiculously horny."
Marco's laughter fills the room, his voice warm and teasing as he replies, "Soon, baby girl, soon."
The anticipation of our baby's arrival has everyone on edge, especially since we've decided to keep the gender a surprise. This, of course, hasn't stopped the incessant inquiries from our family, eager to start shopping for the newest Cervantes member.
As I savor the sweet tanginess of a Manila mango—thank heavens Mexico embraces my favorite fruit—Xavier, one of our trusted guards, steps into the room. I convinced Marco that Xavier and Ron deserved a second chance, a decision he eventually supported.
"Mrs. Pia, you have a visitor," Xavier announces, adhering to the formal address I've requested. The titles "Mrs. Pia" or "Señora Pia" feel more fitting for now; I'm not quite ready to embrace the role of "Doña."
Marco rises to his feet, my curiosity piqued. "Please, bring them in," he instructs Xavier without hesitation.
Trying to adjust my position, hindered by my short legs and the substantial curve of my belly, I pass my plate of fruit to Marco. With a puzzled look, I question, "Why didn't you ask who it was?"
His smile is my only answer, just before a voice that's unmistakably familiar to me echoes through the house. "Cypress!" I gasp, tears of joy instantly welling up.
The moment she steps into view, I'm overcome with emotion. My best friend is here, in Mexico, just as she promised. Cypress's presence, a comforting reminder of home and our friendship's enduring strength fills me with an indescribable sense of happiness. As we embrace, I realize our bond is unshakable no matter where life takes us.
