Chapter 31: Public Mistakes

The great lawn is slick under my shoes but I manage to glide my way across towards the stage looming in the distance. Zelia and Jasper walk ahead of me, Zelia’s annoyance plastered on her face.

“You have to tell me more stories about the college days.” Jasper nudges Zelia with his elbow.

Zelia widens the gap between them and rubs her arm. “Yes, well. Maybe during dinner, I can provoke Tamara into another story.”

I’m engrossed in the conversation when Juan clamps a strong hand down on my shoulder. His face is kind but stern, deliberately slowing my stride to match his. Zelia and Jasper walk on without a care and I glance over at Juan.

“You sure about this, er, dad?” I mumble through my smile.

“Are you kidding me?” Juan laughs, releasing his death grip to motion a hand towards Zelia. “Look at her.”