Ramón laughed. “Still, I’m sorry.”
“Don’t mention it. What are you doing for the holidays? Aspen? Deer Valley? Tahoe?”
Ramón couldn’t think of going anywhere without thinking about Julieta.
“I’m going to stay local this year.”
Ramón saw his mom standing near a massive Christmas tree, sipping champagne with her boyfriend.
Great. Just what Ramón needed.
Two other women were with them—Mrs. Camarillo and her daughter.
“Ramón!” His mom acted like she was thrilled to see him. She walked over and kissed him on the cheek, with Mrs. Camarillo and Sarita trailing behind her. At least his mom’s boyfriend didn’t bother to greet Ramón.
“You remember Sarita?”
Ramón nodded. Sarita was pretty and proper and prim. “Hey, Sarita, how are you?”
“Good, Ramón. You look handsome.”
“Thanks. You look nice, too.” Ramón needed a drink. “Good night, ladies.”
His mom attempted to make a worried expression. She ran after him.
“Ramón, don’t leave in a huff. You could’ve asked Sarita to dance.”
“I’m not interested.”
His mom huffed. “You aren’t still serious about that chef, are you? I looked her up. She has tattoos, Ramón. All over her arms. She’s trash.”
Rage boiled through Ramón. “No, Mom. She’s not trash.Youare.”
Her mouth gaped.
Ramón was tired of the noise and went out to get some fresh air. He ran smack into someone carrying a big tray of food.
Smoked salmon tartlets slipped to the ground. The tray clattered and bounced. Ramón looked up...
“Julieta?” Why was she here?
Julieta wiped her shirt down, shaking her head. “I’m catering the event, Ramón. I need to work. Don’t you see? That’s the difference between us. These events are basic to you, and for me, the only way I’ll ever gain entry is through the door marked employees only.”
“Stop. Don’t be ridiculous. Besides, you were still working for me a few days ago. When did you take this job?”
“The restaurant was booked for this party months ago, before I met you. Do you know how hard it is to get a caterer at the last minute? I would never flake on someone just because I got a better offer.”
“Got it.” Ramón felt like a jerk. “I’m sorry. Look, can you take a break soon?”
“No.”
Mamá walked over. Ramón hung his head. How could this night get any worse?
“Mom, I’d like you to meet Julieta Campos.”
Julieta wiped her hands on her apron. “It’s so nice to meet you, Señora Montez.”
Mamá scowled at Julieta. “Well, I can’t say the same.”
