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The rooftop patrons cheered.
Arlo came in for a hug.
Ada kept her hands to her side while he enveloped her in an awkward embrace. Whispering in his ear, she told him, “You know they all think we’re engaged, right?”
A chuckle rumbled through his chest. “Oh I know. Kind of fun, isn’t it?”
Before she could respond an older couple came over. The woman, who resembled Betty White said, “Congratulations! It’s so sweet to see a young couple in love. Especially on Christmas!”
Arlo nodded. “It’s the best!” Then he pulled Ada into his side, squeezing her tight.
After a few more people walked by with well wishes, Ada finally sat down.
“So, how was that for groveling?”
“That…” Ada was almost speechless for once. “That was something.” She took a sip of her mildly warm latte.
“Just to be clear, you forgive me though?”
“If everything you said in your little speech was true…”
Arlo nodded solemnly, “Scout's honor.” He held up three fingers.
Ada exhaled. “I forgive you.”
Pumping his fist again, it was clear he was proud of his grand gesture. “Now that we got that cleared up… there’s one more thing.” He cupped his hands around his drink and stared into the liquid. “Is there any way you might want to come to Brazil with Brooklyn and I?” Slowly, he lifted his eyes to hers. “It’s okay if not, but I just had to ask one final time in case it does sound like something you’d want to do. We'll be back on January third.”
Gripping her latte, Ada took a slow sip.Going to Brazil would be a huge leap of faith. Exciting, full of adventure. Best of all, I could check off a bucket list itemfor free. But… are there any buts?Brooklyn is adorable, but… Arlo. He’s a wildcard.
“You know what? I’m sorry, this is crazy. I’m crazy.” Arlo rubbed a hand across his face. “Forget it. It was just a party for a friend I haven’t seen in a while. I can’t ask you to upend your holiday plans—”
Ada set her drink down and cut him off. “IfI can have my own room…andI can go see the iconic Christ the Redeemer statue, I’m in.”
“Seriously?” Arlo looked at her wide-eyed. “Those are your only two requirements and you’ll come?”
Ada inhaled, surprised by her own answer. “Yes.”
Living her meticulously curated life had given her stability, but it didn’t fill her up. She craved something more, but had no idea what was missing.Maybe getting out of my comfort zone will give me a new perspective. That's what the travel influencers claim….
Chapter 6
Ada - Christmas Eve
Adawalkedintothekitchen to find Maggie in a bright red apron. It featured white antlers and read “Oh deer!” Pans and baking ingredients covered the large island.
“Nice apron Mrs. Clause.”
“Good morning.” Maggie smirked and then whispered. “I heard the news! You’re going to Brazil!”
“Why are you whispering? Where is everyone?”
Maggie pulled a tray out of the oven. “I’m actually not sure why I whispered that. Just excited for you!”
Ada shook her head. It took a while but she’d gotten used to Maggie’s perkiness and positivity.
“Liza and Miller went on a breakfast date. Chase and Arlo took Brooklyn sledding.”
“I see.” Ada slid onto a barstool. “What are you making? It smells like Disneyland in here.”
