[Previously titled 𝗚𝘂𝗶𝗹𝘁𝘆 𝗣𝗹𝗲𝗮𝘀𝘂𝗿𝗲]
❝No, Ace. I can't do it," I sob.
"I know you can take more than that, sunshine, come on," he encourages, pummeling into me in fervent motions. "One more for daddy, yeah?" He coaxes in a gruffly voice...
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A C E
I park my car in front of the tall building and gather the traditional Mexican dish and a bottle of wine. Riding the elevator up to the seventy-eighth floor, I feel excited.
Approaching the apartment door, I feel a sense of warmth and familiarity. I knock on the door, and a young woman holding a baby opens it. We exchange smiles, recognizing each other.
"Hey, Ace! Long time no see," she greets warmly.
"Hey there," I reply with a grin then, turn my attention to the bundle of joy in her arms. "Hi, little one! How's it going?" I playfully greet the baby, reaching out to shake his tiny hand.
The baby, with curious eyes, looks at me, and his mother smiles, replying, "He's doing well. Saluda al tío Ace,amor," (Say hi to uncle Ace, sweetheart)
The baby, seemingly intrigued, lets out a cute babble as if responding to his mother's prompt. I chuckle warmly, my heart swelling with affection.
"Hola, tío Ace," the woman adds with a grin and I return the smile. (Hi, uncle Ace)
"Is Marta in the kitchen?" I inquire and she nods, stepping aside to let me in.
"Yes, she's in there. I'm sure she'll be thrilled to see you," she says, noticing the dish and wine in my hands.
As I enter the house, the sounds of children playing and laughing fills the air. It's a lively gathering, and the lively atmosphere brings a genuine smile to my lips. I follow the delicious smell of food into the kitchen, excited to be there.
In the kitchen, adults are chatting, laughing, and telling stories. When Marta, the center of it all, sees me, her eyes sparkled with happiness. We hug tightly and I kiss her cheek, and it feels just as warm and comforting as always.
"Ace, mi niño," She exclaims, her tone affectionate and playful. "I told you not to bring anything!" She playfully scolds me and I chuckle, feeling a bit sheepish.
"I couldn't resist," I admit, handing her the dish and wine. "But I thought this might complement your feast,"
Marta's mock-offended look turns into a warm smile when she takes the dishes and wine.
"Well, you're forgiven this time," she teases, winking.
The kitchen is bustling with people chatting and laughing, showing the strong bond Marta has created over the years. I feel at home here, surrounded by friendly faces and lively chatter. Amidst the animated conversations, Marta gets everyone's attention by clearing her throat, and the room falls silent, all eyes on her.
"¡Silencio, por favor!" Marta calls out with a playful yet commanding tone. (Silence, please!) "I have a special introduction to make!"
The group quiets down, their curiosity piqued. Marta gestures towards her son and his fiancée sitting together, and they exchange knowing smiles.
