AllFreeNovel
Share Us
As Luis disappeared, Emma turned to Luke. “Carmen is Luis’s sister. They own this place together. They’re really nice people.”
Luke surveyed the inviting restaurant. “I love the vibes here.”
Not long after, the gentle sound of quick footsteps approached. Carmen, with her graying-black hair pulled into a tight bun, rushed up to the hostess stand. Her eyes lit up as they landed on Emma.
“Emma!” Carmen bounced on her toes. “Oh, my goodness, it’s been ages!”
“I know. Right?” Emma flashed her a dazzling smile and leaned in for a hug.
Carmen pulled back, her gaze sweeping over Emma. “You’re glowing!” She shot a glance at Luke, raising an eyebrow. “I can see why.”
“Aww. Thank you,” Emma said. “This is Luke. He’s new to Hadley Cove.”
Carmen reached her hand out to him. “What a catch.” She leaned closer to Emma and whispered, “I call dibs on this one if you decide you don’t want him anymore.”
Emma laughed, giving Carmen’s arm a light swat. “Oh, I’ll be sure to let him know.”
“You’re in for a treat tonight. The chef’s specials are amazing. I’ll get someone to seat you shortly.”
“Is your terrace open?” Emma asked.
“It is, but no one’s sitting out there yet. It’s still early.”
“We’d like to, if that’s alright.”
“For you, anything! Come with me.”
Emma exchanged a glance with Luke as they followed Carmen, their fingers interlaced. Excitement and uncertainty surged through her, being here with someone who made her feel so alive.
Soon, they settled on the terrace, the ocean stretching out before them. The golden light of the afternoon sun created a shimmering path on the water’s surface as waves rose and fell, their white crests crashing against the shore in a spray of foam. Seagulls soared overhead, their calls blending with the distant sound of boats and jet skis.
As Emma took in the scene, Luke gave her hand a reassuring squeeze. She daydreamed about a future with him—walks on the beach, lazy Sundays curled up together.
But as quickly as her thoughts wandered into this fantasy, in the quiet corner of her mind, Emma felt a flicker of doubt.
18
Luke
Luke settled at the table, a smile tugging at the corners of his mouth; he’d thoroughly enjoyed the lively banter between Carmen and Emma. Carmen’s humor was contagious, and the sound of Emma’s laughter was music to his ears.
“Does your nephew still perform here?” Emma asked Carmen, taking a sip of her water.
“Oh, yes! Antonio’s here. They haven’t started yet, but they’ll go live soon. So if you have any requests, better get them in now.”
Emma chuckled. “I’m sure he’ll play all of my old favorites.”
“If he knows you’re here, then definitely. Let me get drinks for you both—on the house. Be right back.”
“Thanks, Carmen. You’re the best,” Emma remarked as she picked up the menu and began scanning the options.
“So, what do you recommend?” Luke asked.
“Everything vegan,” she said, with a smirk.
Luke tilted his head and smiled. He paused, rubbing his chin. “Where are they on here?”
Emma leaned forward, lowering her menu. “Well, there’s spaghetti marinara, butternut squash ravioli, and sweet potato gnocchi. That’s one of my faves. I’ll probably get that. The pasta here is made without eggs, so it’s all vegan. They even have vegan meatballs if you’re feeling brave.”
