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The porch has a swing that looks cozy. The door is open already, inviting guests to enter. I look up in awe at the huge chandelier shimmering above us.
If it fell, it’d take us all out.
It’s not the time for random thoughts.
The foyer opens to a grand room. On the right is another room, the doors closed. An impressive staircase leads up to the left.
“The cocktail hour is in the garden,” Tristan informs me, leading us through the grand room and out the back.
“Wow,” I breathe out when I come face-to-face with the most breathtaking view of the mountains.
“I know,” Tristan whispers. “Beautiful.”
I nod, smiling over at him. The garden has beautiful flowers in bloom and luscious greenery.
“Tristan,” someone calls out.
We both turn out heads as a woman walks our way. She’s wearing an elegant cocktail dress that hits below her knees.
“Hi, Bianca.” His smile widens, and his eyes soften, clearly fond of this woman.
“How are you, dear? I didn’t get a chance to say hello at the church.” She smiles at him with love and kisses his cheek. Her English holds a hint of an accent.
“I know. We left right away so we could check in to the inn before coming here.” His smile is so broad, and I have to wonder who this woman is that could bring out such happiness in him.
“This is Sage. Sage, this is Bianca, Lex’s mom.”
“Oh, hi,” I smile. “It’s so nice to meet you.” I reach out to shake her hand.
“It’s wonderful to meet you, Sage.” She pulls me in for a hug, catching me off-guard.
My eyes widen, and Tristan laughs beside me. I look over at him, and he shrugs.
“Sorry, I’m a hugger. In my culture, we leave handshakes for business meetings. If you’re here with Tristan, then you’re family.”
My smile drops. Swallowing thickly, I nod, trying to force it back on my face.
“Is Manny here?” Tristan looks around.
“Yes, he’s with my mom. Probably trying to keep her from shoving food at everyone, demanding they eat.” Bianca laughs, shaking her head.
“That sounds like Mrs. Morales.” He shifts on his feet and looks at me. “Lex’s grandma is a hoot.”
I nod, feeling a bit out of place, though it’s expected. I’ve entered a circle of friends with a deep history. I’m the shiny new rock being added to an old monument.
“Well,” Bianca says, looking over Tristan’s shoulder. “I’ll let you go. Enjoy yourself.”
I turn back and see his parents. Tristan must sense it as well because he looks over at them and back at Bianca.
“Stay,” he pleads.
She smiles and shakes her head.
“Talk to them.” She gives him a knowing look, which makes me question how well they know each other.
“Take me with you,” he calls out, half joking.
Bianca laughs. “It was great meeting you, Sage. I’m sure we’ll have more time to get to know each other.” Her eyes twinkle before she looks at Tristan with a soft smile.
