Chapter 17

“Trying to shut me up?” She smiles. “It’s true, Angel. I couldn’t do this without you.”

“Anything left to do down here?” I manage to ask, though my throat is so tight that I can barely get the words out. I know what is coming next.

“Staying the night?” Gabriela won’t meet my eyes. Could it be that she’s as nervous as I am?

“If you want me to.”

“Yes, Angel. I’d like that very much.” She takes my hand in hers and leads me to the stairs.

There is a shower again, of course. She complements me on keeping myself groomed, telling me jokingly that it will save time. I laugh, nervously.

Our time in the cramped stall is more subdued this time around. I tell her that I want to please her, the way she does for me, and she guides my hands to where she wants me to touch her.