Susan Crosby

Near the Heart

Susan Crosby
Near the heart

Plot:

Would

have

to

win

her

love

He had been her great love in high school, until their differences separated them.
Ten years later, Melina Lawrence had not yet been able to forget Rafael Mendoza.
And when the attractive lawyer decided to return to Red Rock, Melina realized that
was not going to get away from him a second time. Not when there was still so
much passion between them. But this time, she was not willing to give his heart.
Rafael still wanted to Melina, so I was determined to win her back. I felt it was the
opportunity that the two had spent years dreaming.

Chapter 1
Elina M Lawrence looked at her sister at her and winked. Angie was the
most beautiful and happy bride had ever seen.
-No Dash! Angie whispered to see that it was time that the maid of
honor began to walk down the aisle.
Melina smiled at her sister's comment.
I was very excited. It was one of the most beautiful moments of your life.
The church was full and dozens of smiling faces received upon entering. Halfway
to the altar suddenly saw a face I did not expect to see there, it was Rafael
Mendoza.
I could not believe it.
It was Rafael, the love of his life, at least it had been in high school and
some time later. The two had been elected by his fellow kings prom course.
Everyone had thought he would marry.
But it had not happened.
He only had eyes for him. The rest of the people was just a blur. He did
not understand why he was there. I knew who lived in Michigan, far from Red
Rock, Texas location where they were born and bred them. There was also where
they had met at the local school.
He remembered what his sister had just asked, should be careful not to
trip. Muscles ached from smiling face. They were too many emotions at the same
time. She felt a little dizzy. He nodded his head slightly in greeting and she went
on.
Le heart was pounding so hard I could not hear the music.
He walked on, being careful not to trip. He moved his legs, but barely
felt.
A few seconds later, he was able to focus and recognize new faces who
watched. It seemed that watched with compassion and curiosity.
He imagined that Angie would have invited and had not even bothered to
warn her. She knew her sister still believed in fairy tales with happy endings. I
always thought that Rafael and she would someday find a way to get back together.
He knew that to Angie, he was like the older brother who had not. I admired him
so much that he had spent years trying to overcome the breakdown of Rafael and
sister. And that was just a twelve years old when it happened.

He went to see his mother's face when he regained his composure

completely. Realized that I knew very well what he was thinking at the time was
given.
He got the smiles they gave them to his mother and grandfather were real.
He looked then that he was about to become his brother, seemed scared. Tommy
Buchanan was a young sweet and handsome.
It was placed next to the other seven bridesmaids.
All the guests stood to hear the wedding march. It was the highlight. He
turned to see how the bride came and saw with emotion Angie kept looking at
Tommy as he walked towards him and towards the altar.
Who gives this woman to be married to this man? asked the pastor when
the bride came down the aisle.
Jefferson Lawrence looked at his daughter and pretended to be trying to
decide what was going to respond.
Papa! whispered the bride eagerly.
His father laughed at her so nervous.
-The Deliver your mother and I replied then.
Her daughter came over and lifted her veil. He gave her an affectionate
kiss and sat down beside his wife.
They had been married thirty-two years and was an exciting time for
both.
Melina focused on what I was doing. He handed the rings to the couple
at the right time. And When the ceremony ended and kissed the newlyweds
returned the bouquet of white tulips his sister.
He grabbed her arm after Godfather to go after Tommy and Angie. They
were followed by the rest of the bridesmaids, dressed all with elegant yellow
dresses and groomsmen.
As all the guests stood, he could not see Rafael to be near him. For years,
he had fantasized about what it would see him again. And, much to his dismay, he
was more handsome and sexy than ever. To make matters worse, gave the
impression that he was alone.
Everyone knew his story and did not like his presence out to attract the
curiosity of others.
Gradually, the guests were leaving the church.

The banquet was to take place near there, at the Blue Sage hotel. But she
had to stay a few more minutes to take photos with the bride and groom and their
parents. When a pair of white limos took them to the hotel, the rest of the guests
enjoyed cocktail since.
Although they were in early March, temperatures had risen enough so
that some guests leave the inner courtyard of the hotel. As he entered, soon a
second to find Rafael. He was crouched and spoke with her grandfather. Although
he used to walk with a cane, that day was using a motorized wheelchair to not get
too tired.
You seem very nervous' I said Angie as they went to the presidential
table. Do not you you're having fun?
He tried to keep his voice reflected how he felt. But it was hard, I knew
all the guests looked at her and then at Rafael. He was observed.
You've invited Rafael.
It's my wedding.
something angry.

I supposed to invite whoever replied her sister

I did not know you to follow remain friends.

Never lost contact Angie assured him. And now you're back, I thought I
would like to have this opportunity to return to see his old friends.
-How You're back? What do you mean?
Are you living in Red Rock? she asked trying to control his pulse.
Yeah, been here a few weeks. It has purchased the former home of
Dillon, but works in San Antonio, 'said his sister with a smile. It is very handsome,
right?
That had to admit. She was not the young man she had dated for years,
but a grown man. His face was more angular and had a strong and solid body.
The wearing gray suit fit him perfectly.
-The Years have sat well, do not you think? Angie asked.
You speak of him as if he were an old she replied offended. We have
only twenty-nine, it's not as if already approached the end of our lives.
Stephanie, the youngest of three sisters, took that moment to approach
them and intervene.

Well, I think so're in the past that age if you're a woman and you're still
single 'I said as he took a codazo-. I know you're a very patient wife, Melina.
But sometimes it is better to use what you have on hand and not keep
waiting for the perfect man appears.
Also, I agree with Angie. You have only to look at Rafael to realize that
is the closest thing to a prince that you are getting.
I think you're exaggerating, Stephanie replied Melina.
But he had to admit it was true. With its glossy black hair and eyes that
could get melted ...
Rafael is a lawyer, not a prince. And life is not a fairy tale. Well, what
Angie is yes he muttered as he raised his glass to his sister.
Here's to your happiness added with a smile.
I did not want to steal the limelight for a second Angie.
After dinner, they made some toast the bride and groom cut the cake and
started dancing. Rafael was still there. I had seen dancing several times, each time
with a different woman, but did not approach her.
She, meanwhile, danced with Jay, best man and twin brother Tommy, and
peers. And of course, he also danced with her father, who was enjoying it.
Are not you going to say hello to your ex? asked his father while
dancing.
Realized that his father did not make him any grace that Rafael Mendoza
was there he realized.
Not planning on it, but neither will be disagreeable if it comes to greet
me.
I think it's best not to open old wounds, honey.
'I have intention.
Then I think you should stop looking to not get the wrong idea.
Until then, he had not been aware that he had been watching. In fact, he
had tried to avoid it, realizing that all seemed to hang on these two. Almost all the
guests knew that they had always dreamed of getting married, buying the building
Crockett Street and opened his own law firm on the ground floor. Thought to have
an apartment on the first floor, at least until it was their second child. They had

decided they wanted even have four. The building remained in the same place as
always, but the plans had changed radically.
It had taken a long time to get over it, but I managed to go through that
street without his heart clench.
'It's been a long time, Dad' he recalled.
It's true. It's been a long time since Rafael break you, but I remember
well how you suffered later.
She had not been able to forget. He remembered it as if it had just
happened. The man had broken her heart.
-He had nineteen, I am now more mature and have more control over my
life.
That's at least what I expected, but the truth was that he had not stopped
dreaming of the possibility of seeing him again. And the man he still managed to
beat his heart hard. Do not know why, but it was true.
'Anyway, you have not had any serious relationship since you were with
Rafael.
But I've had a great dad, so do not worry.
Since the break with Rafael, had dated a few guys, but all relationships
were superficial and short.
And she knew that her former boyfriend was to blame for this situation.
He had wanted to avoid by all means a man were to make her suffer like that.
Rafael had managed to humiliate her and did not want to go through it. I thought it
was important to learn from mistakes and not do it again. She had it very clear.
Why would I want a serious relationship, Dad?
That's my girl. The only person I take seriously is your mother and has
done very well 'I his father said with a smile as they turned on the dance floor.
It was very good dancer. They both knew the steps by heart. I always
enjoyed dancing with her father and got distract her for a few minutes. He left
wondering what he was thinking at that moment Rafael and why it had not yet left
the dance.
He knew that, if he had the chance, he would not have stayed so long.
But when word of dancing with her father and looked around, he realized
that he was no longer there.

The orchestra began to play a festive song immediately recognized, was

the chicken dance and all who were still on the dance floor started waving his arms
as if they were wings. He felt certain envy to see that Rafael was gone, she too
would have liked to escape. He was anxious to remove her dress bridesmaid. It
was so long that I had to lift slightly off the ground to avoid tripping. Quite
complicated if you had to pretend while being a chicken.
But on the other hand, it was then that he began to enjoy more of the
dance and had fun without worry ridicule him or that he was watching her.
Rafael leaned against a tree in the garden. There were also other guests
who had decided to flee the dance upon hearing the song that was playing the
orchestra.
It was in the perfect place to watch the dance floor without being seen
instead. It was easy to distinguish the bridesmaids. They had very long and
pompous yellow dresses, almost as much as the bride.
Then he looked at Angie. It seemed too young then looked at Angie. It
seemed too young to marry. He had last seen a year earlier, at the funeral of his
mother. On that occasion, as expected, had dressed soberly, in a dark suit. With
the wedding dress, however, looked like a Hollywood star. I could not believe it.
Only twenty-two and was already married.
Then he looked at Melina. She was dancing and seemed to be having
much fun. They had also planned to marry as soon finish their studies. They had
not left no detail to chance and had even decided to open his own firm in Red Rock
and childless until some years later, when the time was right.
It was a plan that had begun to take shape when they were only fourteen.
For him, it was love at first sight. The men in his family were passionate in all
areas of your life, at work and in love. And Melina had also wanted very much.
He had never doubted that feeling, at least until she took some decisions
without him.
His passion for she did not die then, but something changed between the
two and turned away from Melina slowly. It was then decided to go another way
to advance your career.
He gave the impression that he had spent a lifetime since. He had
continued with the plan and had done very well, much better than I could have
dreamed. He had worked hard and had risked, but luck had always accompanied
him. Melina, however, had decided to go another way. He wondered if he would
regret having done so.

He finished the chicken dance and saw that Melina was flushed with
exertion. She fanned herself with her hands while smiling. It was much more
beautiful than I remembered, a woman.
He gasped when he saw that Melina was to him. With the coming of
night, temperatures had plummeted. She saw his eyes closed for a moment to
leave the room and breathed deeply, enjoying the fresh air certainly.
He hid a little more in the shadows, so did not see it there.
Normally, no trouble expressing themselves, it was fundamental to his
work, but did not know how to start a conversation with her, the woman he had
loved, but had broken his heart completely.
His idea was to leave well before the wedding to avoid having to talk to
her. I did not know why he had not. Furthermore, only knew a few guests and had
not given the impression that they had much interest in talking to him.
Since returning to Red Rock, I had been thinking if I should call her. It
had even visit their Facebook page. Although they had been many years, he had
needed to know about it and finally find ways to overcome completely rupture. I
thought only I could go on with your life. It was something that seemed much
more important now that he had decided to return to his city.
She saw Melina opened his eyes and quickly see the shadows of the patio.
It was almost as if sensing his presence.
I thought you were gone Melina whispered.
He wondered if that time had been waiting so long, the perfect
opportunity to finally get answers to your questions.
No, but I heard they were playing the chicken dance and I did not feel
like shaking wings he replied with a half smile.
'I have not had much luck commented Melina smiling.
How are you? she asked him.
Very well, thank you. Do not you?
The tone was polite, but quite cold.
'I can not complain she confided as she approached him some more.
Thanks for the card you sent me when my mother died. I really enjoyed receiving
it.
His face and his expression changed to hear and looked with compassion.

I am sorry not being able to attend the funeral she assured Melina. It was
on a cruise and did not know he had died until I returned home.
I know and understand perfectly what he assured her.
-The Admired Melina 'I said as he reached his hand toward him.
Realized it was an involuntary gesture and she lowered her arm before
she got to play it.
'I were sorry not to have kept in touch with her, but could not. I do not
know if you understand it, but could not ...
He understood perfectly. He would not have wanted to keep in touch
with Angie, her sister, but she had not surrendered at any time. He wrote messages
and called him occasionally, always with the hope that he and his sister were to be
reconciled.
It was the only person in the Lawrence family that had continued to
communicate.
Tommy looks like a great guy to Angie she said then to change the
subject.
I was in earnest. They seemed the perfect couple, as were also Melina
and him.
-I Agree. He is a young very romantic. Tommy was the one who chose
this site to celebrate the feast and dance, Angie wanted to feel like a fairy princess.
I was surprised to see how much improved this part of the city he told
her. The only thing that spoils the landscape is the old building Crockett. I'm
surprised they have not shot down.
Melina was silent at his words. Then he looked away.
Well, I think you should re-enter then muttered something more than
cold.
He knew that his comment had hurt.
Sure you do not want to wait a little longer? he replied seeing that at that
time were dancing the conga.
It gave the impression that he does not apetecera anything having to join
the endless stream of guests dancing between the tables.
I'm the maid of honor and
responsibilities.

I have certain 'I said Melina

Your comment got to remember a very specific moment of his past, one
very painful.
And we all know perfectly how much you care your responsibilities.
Melina's blue eyes turned to ice.
So is. My responsibilities and my commitments are above all and I do
not regret any decision I ever made in my life, I think I behaved in a noble way.
My grandparents needed me and did what I had to do. Why is it so hard to
understand?
Melina grabbed the skirt of her dress and walked steadily toward the
ballroom without saying anything more step. She left behind her a trail of perfume
not recognized and much indignation.
Rafael did not understand what she meant it. He did not think he had
done wrong, of ignoble way, but it was what it appeared Melina words.
It seemed incredible that might have hinted something.
He ran his hands over his face. He regretted at that moment did not
follow their instincts and have stayed away from her. You could have simply
attend the ceremony to congratulate the happy couple and go home. It was not the
time or place to discuss what had separated.
But the desire that he had to see her had taken him to make the wrong
decision. It was not common in him. It used to be a very rational and cautious
person.
He had thought enough time had passed since his break for the two they
had passed, but he realized that it was not.
He did not understand how he could have made that mistake.

Chapter 2
M Elina spent Sunday as a cloud. Tommy's family and hers met for
breakfast together and discuss the wedding. Then Tommy's brother, Jay, and she
drove the newlyweds to the airport to fly to Hawaii, the venue for their
honeymoon.
Front door of the terminal they parted.
'I saw you talking to Rafael Angie whispered while abrazaban-. Are you
going to see him again?
-I Do not know. Red Rock is a fairly small town, I suppose so, 'said
Melina.
You know very well that this was not what I meant.
Melina smiled but did not answer. I could not do it, either she had the
answer.
'I talked to Elliot' I then confessed his sister.
-Angie! How could you do that? It is our patient, you can not ...
Do not worry, I have not given too many details.
I know that certain things are confidential. I have not given the name of
Elliot or any other person involved in the case. I just give some hypothetical
questions because he is a lawyer and thought it might help.
It bothered him that had done this without consulting her, but could not
help feeling some hope.
'What did he say?
That is not specialized in such cases.
-that's It? Did not given you any opinion? Not even as a baseball player?
'm Just telling you what happened, Melina.
Calm down, okay? I did not ask him to give me your opinion or talk me
from his own experience, just wanted to know what I thought as a lawyer. Nothing
more. Do not be angry with him.
It seemed incredible that after so long, Rafael still had such power over
her. The day before, a wave of emotions he had shaken the view in the church.
Besides, you left me no end. He said that if you want to talk about it with
him, you can call anytime.
'When you had that conversation?

-Last Night. When he came to say goodbye. He said he had been

thinking about it.
Melina wondered if it would be good idea to mix in such a delicate
matter. After what had happened between them, do not know if it was the right
thing.
And not you angry with me, okay? 'I asked Angie fondly as he grabbed
her hands. I can not enjoy my honeymoon knowing that you've upset.
Melina laughed at that.
Yes, of course. I do not think that something prevents you enjoy these
days.
'I've asked Stephanie not change anything in the office while you travel.
I've been I've been working with you for four years, but I know very well our little
sister. Sure think you can organize things better than me.
I will not let you do, do not worry. And the post will remain yours when
you return.
Come on, Mrs. Buchanan, if we do not hurry we'll miss the plane he told
Tommy to Angie. I'm looking forward to the hotel in Hawaii added with a wink.
He loved them and they seemed very happy. They rushed to the terminal.
He watched with tears in their eyes. It was amazing to see her sister so in
love.
-Comemos Together? he suggested Jay.
-no Thanks. The breakfast was so filling that I have yet she confided her
appetite.
Then what do you say we go to your place and had a good time?
He had been flirting with her for weeks.
-no Thanks.
'Do not you know that this is part of the tradition? The maid of honor and
best man at the wedding always end up together. And you're beautiful, Melina. I
think I'm not bad. Why not try? I do not mind the age difference.
Jay was twenty-two and very little modesty. He could not help laughing.
Well, it's an honor to you to notice me, but have not managed to convince
me, 'she said.

He began to feel too old to be in the company of her sisters and friends of
her sisters.
They kept silent for the rest of the way. Jay left her at home and she went
straight to the couch as he entered.
It was an incredible feeling, to close your eyes and relax after stressful
than had been the last days. But it did not take long to lose that sense of peace I
had felt for a few minutes.
He had seen Rafael after a long time and this meeting had awakened
many memories.
He got up and went to his closet. He took two boxes in the attic. Were
things I had not touched for years.
After the break, threw almost everything that Rafael had given her, teddy
bears, dried flowers and a perfume that caused memories too painful. But there
had been dislodged from the pictures or the yearbooks. Also retained the gold
cameo Rafael had given her when they made love for the first time. He knew
where he was, but decided not to open the box to see it. He glanced well above
yearbooks. Almost all the comments and dedications they had written their friends
when they graduated two of them spoke and the future ahead. He had forgotten
how everyone took for granted that would marry.
But his plan to become a lawyer and work to improve the lives of people
with few resources had finally going to ruin before they finished their first year at
the University of Michigan.
There had been too far from his native Texas, but at least they had each
other.
When his grandmother Rose suffered a stroke, his life changed one
hundred eighty degrees.
He had always loved his grandmother. It was very hard for her having to
stay in Michigan while she was hospitalized, but had still been worrying knowing
that gave discharge though he could barely speak or walk. It had been impossible
to focus on studies and not think about how much would be suffering his beloved
Rose. When came the Christmas holidays, he took days off to visit her
grandparents and help. Then he decided not to return to college.
Rafael did not understand, but she thought he was doing what he should
and followed beside his grandmother. Gradually, their relationship began to
deteriorate. While tending Rose, Rafael began to enjoy your life in college. She

wore a completely different existence, locked in the house of his grandparents and
looking after them. He had voluntarily waived his freedom, but did not care.
What does it hurt to know that Rafael was itself enjoyed such freedom,
but everything was her decision.
Soon after, he received a letter in which he was terminated their
relationship. He did not know how to fight to try to fix things and did not even try.
But rather not think about it.
He took the gray velvet box and opened it slowly. The cameo was not
wearing any photo inside, but had recorded one sentence: This is just the
beginning.
Remembered as if it just happened the moment that Rafael had given it.
He had asked her to close her eyes and had raised her hair gently.
He kissed her neck and tenderly placed after hanging.
It was an incredible moment, she kept in her heart away from all the pain
he had suffered later. She had thought she did not feel anything for that man, that
his presence could not affect it, but just realize that it was not. He had become a
man of success and more handsome than I remembered.
He closed the small velvet box with a thud, not wanting to keep
remembering those years, it was too painful. Kept it all to put the box back in the
closet. But at the last moment, he thought better of it and took the yearbook.
He decided the best way to overcome that and get on with your life was
starting last.
The next day, Melina searched the Internet address of the firm Rafael.
Then he studied on a map how to go there and drove to downtown San Antonio.
His office was on the fifth floor of a building overlooking the river. I had to
identify themselves to the security personnel received in the lobby and get
permission before Rafael law enabling it up.
When the elevator doors opened, he met with elegant offices. It was
quiet and everything was decorated with dark wood and leather armchairs.
Realized that Rafael had not complied with the professional part of his
plan was given. His idea was to become dedicated to helping other lawyers.
They did not want a luxurious nor more than needed for the exercise of
their profession firm. The Crockett building, which had pinned its hopes, tenants
often changed. It was not in very good condition and, as Rafael had told him at the
wedding, it was a miracle that had not demolished yet.

Although I knew he was right, it had hurt him to speak in those terms
from the house in which they had placed all their hopes and dreams of youth.
Sexy and curious secretary's office accompanied Rafael when he arrived.
He rose from his chair and walked over to greet her.
Thank you, Vonda he said as he closed the door behind them. Your visit
is a surprise.
Melina was a pretty confident woman, but found it uncomfortable being
alone with Rafael in his luxurious office, a symbol of his professional success. But
knew not appear cold or let your pride get in the way. Was there something more
important and knew that a child had put all their hopes in it.
But he could not help feeling some frustration. She wanted to tell
screams everything she thought of him, to let him know how much he had suffered
after he broke her by letter, thus robbing the opportunity to tell him how she felt.
During those years, he had rehearsed many times in your head all you would have
said to have done so.
It's a very nice office, 'she said as she tried to control her emotions.
He walked to the window. He loved the avenue that ran parallel to the
river city. It was full of tourists, but it was one of his favorite places in San
Antonio.
'What I can help, Melina? Rafael asked as he approached her.
Instinctively, she pulled away from him. Do not know if I was imagining
or feeling was real, but gave the impression that his strong body radiated heat and I
could feel it.
Angie said you were willing to deal with me if we have a new patient at
the clinic my partner and I, 'she said.
Well, I do not know if I can help, but maybe I can advise better if I
explain in more detail the case Rafael replied as he made a gesture for her to sit on
the couch.
He is a ten year old boy, Elliot Anderson.
Has Asperger syndrome.
'I know that name, but you'll have to tell me what it is.
It's a disorder that falls within the autism spectrum. Children who suffer
are intelligent and can concentrate on what they like, but they have difficulty in
relating to others.

Typically, it costs them to make eye contact with others and do not know
how to interpret the expressions and are able to understand what another person is
feeling. For children with Asperger's very difficult to be part of a team, any team,
especially because they tend to be very direct and say what they think.
-I Understand ...
He shuddered to see the intensity with which Rafael was watching.
Suddenly, he felt very uncomfortable sitting beside her on the couch.
Elliot wants to play baseball she told him. His father spent years
practicing with him and hitting well. As I have assured her parents, she is
exceptional.
'But coaches do not do them much grace that is in their computers, right?
That's at least the grace that is in their computers, right? That's at least what I said
your sister.
Well, not everyone. There is one in particular that is making life
impossible. The Anderson came to live at Red Rock when he had passed the
registration period for this season, but little league could make an exception if
wanted. Elliot and his parents went to a training hoping to speak with one of the
coaches and convince him to let the child play on the computer, but the meeting
was not too good.
What do you mean?
-The Coach was still quite hard with the other kids, I guess you're used to
working that way. He even ridicule few. Elliot, who can not control his words, he
said what he thought.
Well, it is common that neither the players nor his parents accepted
methods coaches - he replied Rafael
-. Did the coach Elliot has Asperger syndrome?
No, not at first. Elliot said it was very bad and he was fat. Does not
distinguish between what can be considered an insult or a compliment. He simply
say because he struck without thinking about how I would feel the coach.
What happened then?
-The Father of Elliot decided to intervene. He explained the coach
privately that the child has Asperger syndrome. He also said that Elliot would only
learn how to be part of a team if he was allowed to play. At Red Rock, no baseball
team for children with special needs. Furthermore, I believe that such equipment

would not be a solution for Elliot she told him. For your questions, I do not
imagine Angie said who the coach was talking about.
No, but I imagine it is Beau Bandero.
So is.
Rafael got up and went to the window to admire the view as she had done.
It -Construy the local sports center with their own money. This site is
yours' said Rafael.
-Yes I know. There is king.
'So is he himself who makes the rules. It is a bitter, always was, even
when we were young and played together. But imagine that your attitude will only
become worse. Especially after an injury it aside professional league Rafael 'I said
as he looked at her. What did Beau?
He took a deep breath before answering.
She allowed Elliot came out to bat. Then he threw the ball and hit him
with it.
-by The way? stunned Rafael replied.
-who Knows? Another coach video recorded the moment, but it is
impossible to know if you hit on purpose.
Often, people with Asperger not have the same threshold of pain we have
others. Elliot just stood where he was, waiting for me to throw another ball. It's
what he does when he trains with his father. Beau will then threw his anger for not
run to first base and said it was too idiot to play baseball. The boy replied that he
knew he had to run because it was the first time in his life that someone hit him
with a ball.
I guess the coach did not like the explanation.
She told Elliot that was too late to become part of the team. He had
already missed four workouts and told him he needed to work harder than other
children.
I see you still as bully as it was in college, but now has more power.
'It was the first time someone insulted Elliot
'I told her. Children can be very cruel and I'm sure you have called "idiot"
or "strange" often. The kids his age do not realize that it is different from the
others, but it is unacceptable that it does an adult.

Rafael leaned against the window and crossed her arms. He had never
been angrier with Beau what was it at the time, although he had many times during
his years in high school to feel something. They had always competed within and
outside the field.
And what do you have to see you in this? How have you been involved?
'I dedicate to occupational therapy. I specialize in psychological, social
and emotional consequences that carry certain diseases or conditions. According to
the patient who is taking me every time I commissioned to design a different
treatment that suits your needs Melina she explained as she crossed her legs and
relax some more. I help people who have suffered strokes or other injuries to learn
to adapt to their new situation. Children with autism should help themselves. For
Elliot, my partner and I are trying to find a lawyer who can help. We have recently
added with more firmly. Elliot can not afford to lose more training, Rafael.
Baseball season will start in a couple of weeks. It is very good hitter, but needs to
learn to play as a team.
They stood in silence as he pondered what he had to say. He had hoped
that Melina was there to talk about what had happened between them and try to fix
things. He had thought that perhaps she felt too stuck in the past and with the
feeling that I could not move forward until clarification as to why it was all over
between them.
But he realized that he was there to talk to Rafael Mendoza, counsel, and
not man.
'Then, will you sue Beau?
I think we have no choice but to do so.
And want me handle it.
He said as a statement, not as a question. Realize that this child was the
only reason that had brought her there and she had to go to him because he had not
found anyone else was given. It was the second time someone asked his advice on
a legal field for which he was not prepared.
-Please She begged her.
Melina, I devote myself to Business Law. I have not done anything since I
graduated. The complaint would be based on the law to protect people with
disabilities and is not something that is familiar.
Also, do not even know if a judge would accept the demand.
But you could study the case and catch up.

Always gave you good study.

He almost laughed at that. The idea seemed ridiculous. But Melina still
looking at him intently and without leaving his position. It was as if he were
challenging, as in the old days ...
But then he sighed and got up from the couch.
Well, forget it. I see you prefer to stick with the Business Law and get
even more millionaires millionaires. I guess it's more important than getting a child
to achieve his dream, 'she said as she walked to the cabinet where he had presented
the trophies won playing baseball.
Then, Melina went to the door and grabbed the doorknob.
All right, I'll see 'I told him he was about departure-. I will try to help you.
But I need to investigate further the case. You have to keep in mind that if I get
involved in the case could harm you. You know I do not take too well with Beau.
If I had a choice, I would not be here, 'confessed Melina.
He approached her and opened the door.
-Vonda, How I have my schedule tomorrow?
You're busy until two replied his secretary.
I'd love to know the Anderson. Think you could come tomorrow at two?
I do not know, but I'm sure they will do whatever it takes to be here at this
time. If, for some reason, they prove impossible, you would call. Think you should
also come Elliot?
Yes, I also want to know.
Not have much money, 'then said Melina.
-OK.
Thank you, Rafael. I have much information on Asperger syndrome. If
you want, I can take a couple of books home Melina 'I said as they left the hall.
All right, fine.
Angie told me that you purchased the former home of the Dillon.
So is. Need some improvements, but my father and my brothers are
giving me a hand when they can.
I was surprised a lot to come back to Texas. Did not expect she confided
Melina.

Me neither replied him without saying anything more. So Beau's fat,

right?
Melina frowned when he saw that he had purposely changed the subject.
Yes, I think you drink too much beer.
He'll be trying to drown his sorrows he remarked it.
Surely it is the case. Well, see you tomorrow, Rafael Melina she said
goodbye to him.
She left behind her a trail of perfume that although new, had noticed the
wedding day and began to associate with that woman.
He returned to his office and closed the door behind him. He had not
managed to figure out how I was Melina. I thought that if I had not needed to help
his patient would not have gone to see him. He went to his desk and opened the top
drawer.
He pulled out a small box there. He had always kept near him, somewhere
where I had to look at her hand occasionally. The contents of that box reminded
how volatile could be love. Long ago had not had to open. He did at that moment.
Inside was a simple engagement ring.
He'd given during the first Christmas they spent together in college.
Unfortunately, Melina had mailed back a few months later. That ring was
devastating tangible proof of a promise that was broken forever.
He believed that owed nothing to the woman, but had not been able to
forget completely. Remained the most attractive and sexy that I had ever met.
He decided he would try to help the young Elliot and patch things up with
Melina to overcome her breakup and move on with your life.

Chapter 3
R AFAEL did not get home until seven o'clock. Saw the light on in the
room before realizing that his father's van was parked outside the door. He
imagined he would be sanding wooden friezes. It was tedious, but necessary to
restore the house over a hundred years old work. There were several houses in the
neighborhood of Red Rock that had been built in the same era, but they were in
much better shape than yours.
Furnish just one of their four bedroom so he could use his father. Since
returning to Red Rock, had spent much time there with him. Not always slept over,
but thought he had earned the right to have their own room.
Luis Mendoza seemed to have aged ten years since his wife died, the
mother of Rafael, a year before because of pneumonia.
He opened the back door and walked into the kitchen, turning on lights as
he went.
Hi, Dad! I'm back! he shouted to his father could hear.
I'm in the room, 'said his father.
Saw no leftovers in the kitchen.
He crossed the room and went to the salon.
'How?
'I've almost finished with frieze. Soon, you are ready to apply the varnish
'I said his father.
He was kneeling on the floor. He straightened his back while talking to
him and growled. You realize that he was getting older. See his father and helped
him to imagine how it would be at that age, at least physically.
He figured it was also the future that awaited them his three brothers.
They resembled his mother on other things, like his energy, his willingness to work
and his outgoing personality.
The missed him and could not imagine how his father would feel after
such a tragic loss.
He put the jacket on the chair and crouched beside his father.
How long have you sanding? he asked as he rubbed her back.
A couple of hours replied pointing to the center-table. Melina was passed
through here. It has left some books and a DVD for you.

-Estupendo! He had already told me he would Rafael replied as he rose

and went to the table.
He saw the DVD had the child's name written on the box. He took the disc
and the TV was with him.
Not you eaten yet, right? she asked her father.
'No,' said Luis as he rose from the ground.
He had lost weight a lot during these last months.
He calculated that he would have lost fourteen or fifteen kilos.
'So Melina Lawrence again, right? He remarked his father.
No, Dad. He has asked professional help. That's all.
He could not be in your mother's funeral, but he came to me as' I turned
trip Luis Mendoza said while wood dust had left his clothes cleaned -. Not sure
why there was not yet married. I think that is the most coveted of all Red Rock
single. It is as if unsure how beautiful it is. It could not be more affectionate with
people and has a smile that lights up everything.
Rafael had just enjoyed that famous smile since returning to Red Rock,
but remembered perfectly.
But I am surprised that you want to talk to her after what happened to you
when you broke up.
'Life goes on, Dad. You yourself just said is a lovely woman.
For me, yes. But it can not be the same for you. I do not want you to
suffer, 'said his father.
Not okay, dad. I'm fine, but thanks for your concern.
He put the DVD in the player and lit it. The video quality was not bad, but
the camera was quite far.
'Is that Beau Bandero? his father asked approaching the screen with
interest.
So is. In the flesh.
-More Meat bone commented Luis. I heard that drinking too much ...
What is that? Has he given to that child with the ball? What has been done on
purpose? he added shocked.
Rafael did not answer, he was focused trying to hear what Elliot and
coach said. Things had happened as Melina had described them.

I do not know, Dad. What do you think yourself? You think I want to hurt
him?
It's hard to know, put it back.
They returned to watch the video carefully. They did a couple of times.
It's impossible to say for sure if he did it he murmured Rafael purpose.
Beau has enough problems, but I think to be able to do something like 'I
his father said.
He looked at his father with curiosity.
Always you have advocated.
Luis Mendoza shrugged and started to pick up the sander and other tools.
Because I know you did not have an easy childhood. Mr. Bandero was
very hard on him. Remember that I worked on his ranch and saw every day.
Well I think it is very lucky. If you have a baseball team is because
parents are not willing to take their children to San Antonio. I guess they are
willing to endure many things to get your children the train a former professional
player Rafael remarked as he turned off at the television. I go to prepare a pizza.
Sit down, Dad. Put your feet on the table and rest. The last thing you need is to
spend all day on the ranch and then come to my house to continue working.
I only get to sleep and murmured his father as he settled on the couch.
He closed his eyes briefly at that. Long waited such a confession. He did
not like his father was forced to hide his pain.
You do not know how much I miss your mother. The nights are too quiet
and days, very empty his father said, trying to smile. I'm thinking that I could use myself a bad
dog.
Rafael sat beside her.
'Why do not you come live here with me? You know there's plenty of
room.
I have to be at the ranch. Everyone starts to tell me that it's been a year,
and should be over.
Not every person we understand that pain differently and we need more or
less time to recover.

But the truth was that he also had the hope that, one year later, her father
had learned to live with the absence of his wife.
It's the same as Melina said. I also advised tell you how I feel he assured
his father. When he told me, it seemed absurd. I'm sure you know very well what
happens to me.
Well, obviously you're suffering. You've even lost weight.
Your mother was the cook at the ranch. I can not stand to sit at the table
and eat what someone else has cooked my son.
-I Get it. So I think you should live with me. Take care of each other.
Do not you think that my presence would hurt your love life?
I've been a hermit's life, Dad. I'm like you.
Yes, but I do not last long, 'said Luis Mendoza as he rose with difficulty
from the couch.
Well, I think that I will not wait for dinner. I will return directly to the
ranch. Thanks for listening.
No, that's nothing. Do not you going to go without eating something.
His father looked at him with a frown.
You're pretty stubborn she accused.
-Yup? And who do you think I look like?
-A Your mother replied his father quickly.
Rafael laughed at that. He circled his father's shoulders with one arm and
went to the kitchen. It was one of the few rooms of the house was finished.
They ate pizza and drank beer, enjoy those quiet moments. Got it opened a
little more. I wanted to help him and, after talking with him, he realized that what
he was doing. Each time I was more satisfied with their decision. His father needed
him and believed it was a good idea to return to Red Rock to be closer to him.
When his father left, he returned to see the video training baseball. He sat
on the couch and took one of the books that Melina had left home, but I could not
concentrate. In addition, he had spent much of the afternoon finding out what it
was exactly Asperger syndrome.
View Beau brought back unpleasant memories of his past. Were things
that had always avoided thinking. Also, did not want his last could affect in any
way what mattered most in those moments, help Elliot.

They had been rivals in baseball very young, but I knew it was best not to
think about it, just hoping that Beau was mature enough to behave the same way.
I was too nervous to concentrate and decided to go for a walk. Red Rock
had grown considerably in recent years, but it was still a village and was easy to
get around on foot.
He went to the Red, the restaurant had their uncles. He realized that it was
Monday and was closed.
He followed the sidewalk and came to the building where Melina had his
office was in a small building. Beside the door was a sign announcing that
specializes in occupational therapy clinic. Next to the name of Melina was that of a
man named Quanah Ruiz, another therapist.
The blinds were closed center, but had been there another day and knew
there was a small waiting room where she worked as a receptionist and secretary
Angie. A door opened to the rest of the query, but was unable to see anything from
the outside.
He had asked other villagers and knew that Melina lived nearby in a
townhouse. He also knew that the house had two bedrooms and had bought a year
earlier. All he had was not his phone number.
He realized that he was not there by chance, it was as if his subconscious
was guiding him.
He pulled out his cell phone and called telephone information service, but
Melina was not in the guide to Red Rock.
He put the phone back and walked to his house.
He saw that there was still light in the upstairs, but she could not visit her
no more.
He looked at his watch, it was half past nine. She hoped it was not too
late. He spent a few more minutes, very indecisive. In the end, he decided to return
home. I had some questions for him and hoped to find it in your clinic the next day,
before they meet with Anderson. He thought it was better to leave well enough
alone and not complicate life more.
Had not gone more than ten paces from the house when Melina turned and
surrounded the building. He entered the grounds that they shared the houses of the
urbanization. I knew it was not a good idea, but I had to.

In the midst of the garden was a large pool and saw that someone was
swimming. That did not stop him, I knew it could not be of Melina. She was
terrified of water.
He had a pretty traumatic experience of small and had difficulty even
getting in a bathtub.
He walked through the garden trying to unseen. He went to the back door
of the house Melina and stopped again. I did not know how he would react if he
saw there, but felt an irrational need to know.
-Rafael?
He turned quickly at his voice. Melina watched from the pool, arms and
head resting on the edge of it.
-What Are you doing here? 'she asked.
'You're swimming! he replied as he approached.
But if even soportabas get into a bathtub.
-Acrcame That towel, please, 'by Melina asked while pointing.
He swam up the stairs and out of the pool. He wore swam up the stairs and
out of the pool. He wore a blue bathing suit that suited his anatomy like a second
skin. He could not help noticing her firm breasts, on her hard nipples and the way
in which shone his damp skin.
He had forgotten how perfect was his body. It was not particularly
athletic, but very tempting and full of curves. During their relationship, they came
to not have too intimate encounters, but then remembered how much he liked to
hug her after making love.
At that age, neither was able to afford to go to a hotel and there were few
chances they had. In college, had been limited to maintaining rapid and sporadic
encounters in their dorm rooms. Sex with Melina remembered as pleasurable and
passionate, but not as satisfying as it could have become.
He opened the towel and wrapped his body with it. We had a hard time
resisting the temptation to embrace. We would have loved to draw her against his
body and dry gently.
-What Are you doing here? Melina she asked as she looked back,
frowning.
Nothing special. I was taking a walk.

Melina tried to pull away, it was as if he had remained motionless. It

seemed a good sign and approached her a little more. There were many memories
was having at the time.
He noticed her sensual lips were slightly parted and noticed that he was
having trouble breathing. He leaned toward her and ...
Melina quickly away from him.
I must go, 'she said as she covered better with the towel.
I could not believe he had been about to kiss Rafael. She wanted more
than ever, but was clear that he could not fall back into their networks. He would
not think of what might have happened if I had not reacted in time.
He entered his house shaking. In part by the contrast in temperature
between the heated pool and the cold of the night, but he knew that the presence of
Rafael also had much to do with the state in which he found himself.
That night had swum more than other days, trying to burn the energy that
had been building all day. Since Rafael saw that morning in his office, he had been
unable to calm. She felt trapped between the past and the present and she had
trouble concentrating on anything else. Even John had noticed.
It was one of his patients. He was sixty-two years and was working with
him to regain the powers after suffering a stroke. If he had noticed, I was sure it
was evident to all.
Now again he said to Rafael.
He left the room and ran to his bedroom. Quickly removed his swimsuit
and jeans and a sweatshirt was. He had taken the clothes closet so fast that threw
down the robe hanging from a hook on the door, revealing the letter he had framed
and hung there. It was that Rafael had sent him many years before, the letter with
which concluded their relationship. He wore many years seeing that already did not
stop to think what it was. But at that moment, she gasped at the sight.
I had to read it to know what it said, had all those words seared in his
mind. He had framed and hung in your closet never to forget what could possibly
occur if he should give his heart.
He closed his eyes one second recalling the pain he had felt then. After
several years of relationship and affection that had, Rafael had not even been brave
enough to call her and explain why he wanted to break up with her.

Then he felt all the pain, loneliness and anger that had dominated his life
since. It seemed impossible to lose the room and having to talk to him as if nothing
had happened.
"But have already been ten years and are not the same person," then
recalled. I thought he had changed and that the best he could do was forget and
move on with your life.
Hair with a towel dried, looked in the mirror and went downstairs. Rafael
saw was flipping through the school yearbook that she had left on the coffee table.
Looks like it was forever ago Rafael murmured as she entered.
Then he remembered that he had left open the page where the photos were
both crowned as king and queen of the prom course.
It's happened a long time, a whole life she replied. Fancy a drink?
No, thanks, 'said Rafael.
She went to the kitchen, only separated her from living a bar that served as
a breakfast counter or table. A glass of water poured. I did not thirsty, but I was
hoping to get away from him.
When did you learn to swim? Rafael asked as he approached the bar
between them.
He makes a couple of years. Had long been seeing people at the clinic I
had to overcome their fears every day to try to get his life after serious illness or
accident. I felt like a hypocrite. I decided I could not keep pushing to improve if he
was not ready to face my fears.
But then she remembered that she was still a phony.
He tried to convince their patients to forgive those who had caused his
injuries in accidents, thought it was much better not having to carry that pain and
focus only on improving their situation. But she could not forgive the man who had
caused him so much pain, the one in front of it at the time. I thought the letter was
framed and had seen in his closet was a tangible proof of what was being
hypocritical.
It took me a year to learn to swim and that he was going twice weekly
classes.
Well, I'm glad a lot for you. So either you already have nightmares about
water?

'From time to time, but not as often. Even sleep with my cousin drowning,
but now I lunged for her and saved, do not limit myself to see how everything
happens from shore doing absolutely nothing.
You had only five when it happened, Melina.
I know she admitted.
He sighed, remembering the experience he got traumatize for years. He
had spent his childhood and adolescence avoiding the pools.
Nor had never gone to the river, as did his friends.
But rather not think about it, I could not change the past. He was very
proud of herself having managed to overcome his fear of water.
He set the glass on the counter and looked him straight in the eye.
-What Are you doing here? he asked again.
Rafael looked thoughtful for a moment, as if trying to weigh what to
answer.
He tried his face did not express what I felt, but I was hoping to leave. It
was hard to have it at home, it was a temptation not needed. For though he still felt
the pain he had caused, he still felt attracted to him, I could not help it. He had
been about to kiss him when he left the pool and it had cost him a lot of work away
from him.
I wanted to ask you some questions before we meet with Anderson
Raphael 'I said. I would have called, but did not your phone.
But you do know where I live.
That information did not cost me much to get it. Anyway, I wanted to
know when the next training team and if you could get me a list of names of
children.
'I'll make sure my spies' I get the information she said crossing her arms.
Anything else?
Few seconds they were silent.
If my presence bothers you, I call you tomorrow job, 'said Rafael.
Melina looked down for a moment. No work had cost him recover part of
their relationship that had always worked, liked to talk with him. He recalled that

used to have long conversations. They talked about everything, anything. It was
something I missed him.
'That is not, Rafael. But I find it too weird. He wore long time no see ... he
said then. It is better to maintain a strictly professional relationship. Do you have
any more questions for me?
Rafael put his hands in his pockets. Melina was not an expert on body
language, but he knew that gesture meant more.
'Then, is your professional opinion that we should try everything to Elliot
can play baseball?
Do you think it is best for him and that suit you?
It's able to play baseball if they allow you to train well and get to learn the
rules. He who has Asperger syndrome is not an impediment, but it will cost more
effort and time than others. Need more individual work and that is precisely what
his father has been doing for a long time.
Yeah, you told me that he was very good at batting, but is it as good at the
other positions? Can run from one base to another and catch the ball?
-The Truth is I do not know. The only thing I have clear is that you can
not learn what it means to be part of a team if you do not allow you to be in it. The
hardest and complicated in children with Asperger's get to socialize she explained
her. The most important thing for me is that Elliot wants to join the team, loves
baseball and keeps repeating that wants to be with them. That initiative and desire
are those that can achieve triumph in baseball, but needs more help than other
children to get it. Maybe what we call
"Success" has a different meaning in your case, but deserves the same
opportunities as others, do not you think?
Rafael smiled to hear.
Sure you did not study law?
He did not like that I remember, but made no comment.
I suppose it's a compliment coming from your part she replied. I hope you
can help us because Elliot need someone to defend their interests.
'I'll tell you tomorrow, after I talk to him and his parents Rafael' I said as I
looked at the clock in the kitchen. Well, I'd better go. If you can get the
information I've asked you, send it to me by fax or e-mail prior to the meeting,
please. I could really use.
Melina nodded and walked him to the door.

On the way there, I saw Rafael looked askance yearbook that was on the
coffee table. Realized that he was also leaving things in the pipeline, as happened
to her, she realized. He knew that sooner or later have to talk about what had
happened.
But Elliot thought was most important at that time.
Have you seen the books and DVDs that you tell your father? she asked.
Yes, I've seen the video several times, but the truth is that it leaves too
clear how things happened
Rafael replied as he looked one last time.
Good night, Melina.
She was made a lump in his throat. That moment reminded many
similarities to his past when Rafael accompanied her home and gave her a kiss
goodbye. Despite the pain I felt when I remember those moments, part of her
wanted to grab his shirt and take him to his bedroom.
I had heard a lot of people that only a slight line separating love from hate
and realized it was a very dangerous ground, especially if had passed without a
safety net.
Good night she whispered as she closed the door.
Do not know if I would be able to work with him to solve this case, but
knew he had no choice. For the sake of Elliot, should focus and forget your
feelings.
And for your own good, I thought it best to lock those feelings in your
heart and never remove them.

Chapter 4
R AFAEL let out Melina responsible for making the presentations the next
day when they met in his office. Elliot Anderson was sitting on the couch between
her parents, but soon rise again and run to the cabinet where the attorney had all
the trophies.
Look at this, Dad! exclaimed the boy. They are amazing!
Stephen Anderson smiled at Rafael. Then he got up from the couch and
walked to where her son was. They were very much alike the two even had the
same haircut.
He came up behind them to speak of trophies, he realized it was the best
way to break the ice.
I see you're a fan of Alex Rodriguez, Elliot.
I really like the shirt you're wearing your number Rafael 'I said.
Alex Rodriguez, yes. It is the number thirteen. They call
"A-Rod". He was the youngest baseball player who has achieved
hundred home runs. He did not go to college. He first played for the
Seattle Mariners.
Then with the Texas Rangers. My father took me once to the stadium to
watch him play, but it was too small and I do not remember. I have pictures. Now
plays for the New York Yankees. Its average hitter is ...
Wait a little, Elliot 'interrupted his father.
We are here to talk to Mr. Mendoza, right?
-I Know. I searched information about it on Google replied the little full of energy-. Rafael Mendoza was pitcher on the
baseball team of the Institute of Red Rock.
During his senior year he surpassed the average of its peers in races during
games. Their average success with the bat was forty-three percent.
He won six home runs and forty six home runs. He hit a total of two
hundred five balls and failed forty-two. He went to the University of Michigan
with a baseball scholarship. Their mean ...
Elliot interrupted him again his father. This man is Rafael Mendoza.
I know, Dad. Its average hitter ...

'Would you like to open the cabinet so you can play the trophies? Rafael
then she asked.
Melina had told him that the best way to stop him when he started his
monologues was changing the subject, directing his interest in another direction.
-Yup! Elliot exclaimed as he jumps for joy
-. I can do, really? I want to touch that! he added, pointing the greatest of
all.
It was the trophy that Rafael had won at the University of Michigan
during his last season in the team. He was voted best player of the year. It was too
big for the child.
Why not choose one that you can hold on your lap while we sit back on
the couch?
He pulled out of the cabinet a smaller, but very striking.
-OK! Accepted Elliot.
Go and sit down with your mother 'I asked his son Stephen Anderson.
Elliot ran to the couch and sat down with a big smile.
He accepted the trophy carefully placed him on her lap and began to
examine it closely.
Rafael decided it was best not to sit behind his big desk, I wanted to be
closer. He took his chair and walked over to the couch.
I'm told that you also play baseball well, Elliot he told the boy.
Yes, my average success with the bat is seventy-five percent, much higher
than that of Rafael Mendoza. My father is teaching me to pitch.
You like to throw the ball? Rafael asked.
Yes, yes, yes. But I'd rather hit. My average success with the bat is
seventy-five percent repeated the child.
Can you hit the ball when you throw it too high? she asked then.
'Sometimes Elliot replied without looking away from the trofeo-. But I
have to wear sunglasses. I like wearing sunglasses. I also like uniforms like those
worn by other children. I want to be on the baseball team.
What is it that you like baseball? He kept asking him.

I want to be with other children Elliot replied as he led another look at the
trophy case
-. I would like medals and pictures like yours to put them on the wall of
my bedroom and watch it all the time.
The cabinet also had photos of your team and not surprised that Elliot
dreamed of being part of it all. It was a very special feeling to have coworkers who
strive and fight for sporting success. Ties of friendship and camaraderie that could
last a lifetime were created.
We asked some more questions and received the same enthusiastic
responses. Then he decided it was time to talk to their parents without Elliot was
present. Melina immediately understood what I wanted and offered to take Elliot to
the waiting room.
But Mrs. Anderson was that did it. She said her husband represented well
at two and she needed not be at the meeting.
I saw the video workout the other day he said Rafael Steve Anderson as
they left his wife and child. I do not know if you had better perspective from where
he stood because the video leaves unclear whether the blow was intentional or not.
Not tell. He did not throw the ball too hard, but Elliot ended with a bruise
on his hip because of that blow.
How Beau reacted after hitting the child?
I have heard what the coach said, but the video was shot from too far
away and difficult to interpret the expression on his face.
Not really say, 'said Mr. Anderson. He was too busy trying to contain my
wife to not go to the coach. Was furious added with a bitter smile.
He was not surprised that Elliot's mother would have reacted that way. He
too was having trouble controlling his anger. I thought that this child does not
deserve to be treated well.
I need you to tell me why it is so important for you to Elliot part of the
team. That will give me a better idea of how I should defend your case.
Elliot real situations need to continually rehearse with us and your
therapist to learn how to behave, especially from the point of view. Not enough to
tell you how to behave, you need to practice he explained his father.
And how you react when you make a mistake? Do you think it would be
paralyzed or who would be able to continue the game? All players mess up

sometimes, but it is very important to react and keep playing as if nothing had
happened. Do you think Elliot is ready to do that or it would stay frozen?
-No One answer for your questions, 'said Stephen. It is very common to
feel frustration and the feeling can provoke all sorts of things.
But learn from those experiences. We talked about it when it is over and
try to fix it.
Rafael then looked at Melina.
-In Your opinion, do you think that part of the baseball team could be
harmful to him in any way?
It's going behind other children in many things, but has more courage than
anyone. Baseball is passionate and work harder than anyone, I'm sure. I think it
would be a fundamental experience for him. Being part of a team will help you be
more sociable. It is very important that you feel part of something.
Sir Mendoza, the truth is that I have too many hopes' said Stephen. I do
not think Beau Bandero going to budge. As you own the sports complex, you can
do whatever you want. I do not want all Red Rock talks about Elliot. Recently I
live there and do not have friends. On the other hand, it is important for us to have
the same opportunities as other children. We know of other young people with
Asperger who have been part of sports teams and have managed to adapt and make
the experience positive for everyone. That gives us much hope.
I know Beau Bandero since I started playing baseball when I was younger
even than Elliot. You may be right and is unwilling to budge. But there are other
teams and other coaches. I'll see what I can do.
Why not go to training and are limited to see him, without saying
anything?
'We can do it. One of the rules of coaching is that parents can not stay.
Only players and coaches.
A Rafael It seemed an unusual rule, but said nothing.
I'll call you after talking to Beau he assured Mr. Anderson as he stood up.
You have a wonderful son.
Thanks, but tuteme, please. Can we talk now about how we will pay your
fees?
I'm not going to cobraros anything. It's just a favor among baseball
players, 'he said with a wink. And
Rafael call me, please.

Thank you very much, 'said the voice thick with emotion.
They went together to the door. When Rafael opened it, I saw that Elliot
was waiting with his secretary's desk. Vonda seemed completely mesmerized.
- Beau Bandero Elliot was saying at that moment. He was third in the high
school baseball team of Red Rock. His batting average success rate was sixty-two
percent during his last year there.
He got ten home runs and forty six home runs, seventy-one percent of the
total. It was signed by the Houston Astros. He also went to college, like Alex
Rodriguez. He got to play in the professional league in the second year and
remained there for seven years until ...
Son Steve interrupted him as he looked somewhat embarrassed the
secretary. We must go.
Rafael goodbye to Debbie, mother of Elliot, and then approached the
child. He pulled a baseball that had been stored in the jacket pocket.
'This is not to play with it, okay?
Keep it at home. Do you see the autograph? He is my favorite player, he
was my idol when I was your age 'I said Rafael.
He remembered that moment as if it had just happened.
'I do not play baseball but still my hero.
-Cal Ripken! Exclaimed excited me the small- God. It is the signature of
Cal Ripken, Dad. They called
"Iron Man". He played two thousand six hundred thirty-two straight
games without having to rest in various seasons. In total, he played three thousand
and one games throughout his career. He received eleven thousand five hundred
fifty-one ball with his bat and was able to give three thousand one hundred eightyfour them. In 2001, his salary was six million three hundred thousand dollars. In
2001, Alex Rodriguez's salary was twenty million. In 2001, Manny Ramirez
received ...
Steve affectionately grabbed his son by the shoulders and turned to go
with him to the door.
We have to go, sir Statistics. Say goodbye to these people.
Goodbye -Les Elliot said.

But Rafael realized that he was still muttering all kinds of figures as he
walked down the aisle with her parents.
He gestured to Melina to let back into his office. He closed the door, but
did not move from where they were.
He's a great guy he said.
-Yes It is. I am fortunate to meet fantastic children thanks to my work
Melina replied. It was a lovely detail that links you two Ripken ball. I know it
means a lot to you.
Yes, but I think I left it in the best possible hands.
Thanks for doing Melina 'I said as he touched his arm.
An instant gasped at the contact. He did not like to react that way, I knew
better than to. This greatly complicated matters.
-The Truth is I feel like doing confessed him.
I needed a case to me out a little routine.
I needed a case to me out a little routine.
Long ago I had not a matter that enthuse me as much as this one.
Melina looked into his eyes and knew what she was thinking. When they
decided to study law, was precisely to deal with such cases. They wanted to help
people who could not afford a good defense.
When he opened his mouth, it was not to blame anything.
He seemed to have decided to completely focus on the case of Elliot.
Very well, I'm looking forward to tell me how we can fix things.
A couple of hours later, Rafael approached the sports complex Beau
Bandero. He traveled on foot while searching for the coach. It was new, only been
two years running. Beau had built in honor of himself, with the huge amount of
money given to him during his last year of contract, a few months before a serious
injury ended his career. Had four baseball fields and a building in the central part
where there was a cafe and toilets. He saw the four fields were busy with
equipment training children.
Beau saw and went to him. He had spent some time on the phone with
other coaches and parents who had children in the team. I knew there were still ten
minutes to start training, but children who trained with Beau were already there.
He had been told that he was personally responsible for the administration of
complex workouts. Apparently controlled everything, down to the smallest detail.

No delegated to its employees or giving them any kind of independence so they

could show what they were capable. He had wondered the same thing all parents
with whom he had spoken by telephone. He was intrigued to know why they were
willing to endure this man. The answer was the same in all cases. In a town the size
of Red Rock there was no other place where their children could play baseball.
It's very hard at the beginning of each season, during these weeks we live
pending the final lists, praying that our children have been admitted to the league
that year 'I said one of the mothers we spoke.
Teaches children to be good baseball players
had added her husband during the conversation. And
they demand the same standards. I think it's good coach, but also a little
mouthy and, unfortunately, is not too touch.
My son has returned many evenings crying for training 'I had secured
another mother.
After talking to a few, he realized he had all kinds of opinions. Mothers
used to be quite concerned about the way he treated children, but other parents
thought that discipline was going to be much use to their children when faced with
problems that might have later in life.
The coaches that spoke were very cautious not want to give too much
information. One of them said he had been willing to accept Elliot on your
computer, but Beau had forbidden.
A few minutes later, he started training.
Beau began instructing them children for them to run around the field
several times. Then I turned to him and stayed where he was. It was Rafael who
came to greet him.
Hello, Beau she said. Long time no see.
How are you?
'I can not complain,' said the Coach. I had already mentioned that you
were back at Red Rock.
Yes, I've been here a few months and I am delighted.
'How is Melina? A long time since I've seen. We do not usually move in
the same circles, you know?
It was hard not to wince at his question.

Everyone knew they were not together, had been the story of the year in
Red Rock, but it had been a decade since. He could not believe he had the nerve to
ask for her view nothing.
I think it does well.
May I help you with something? Beau asked while the cap fit.
I came to talk to Elliot Anderson. He saw Beau jaw clench at his name.
What about him?
I'd like you to give him a chance to play in one team.
-What Would you like to accept it on one of my computers? coach
repeated sarcastically. Why should he?
Because love this sport and will do more than any other child. And I ask
also because all these little deserve a chance to shine.
The problem is that to me, Rafael, I do not like bright children. Prefer
them covered in mud from head to toe because they give everything when running
from one base to the next. That boy, Elliot, has no idea how to play baseball.
She has a average success with the bat than seventy-five percent he told
her.
'Really? If we could have a child who only hit into, I could accept it on
your computer, but they have to learn to play in all positions. They have been
trained and still have much to learn. Elliot did not even know you have to run to
first base when he gives the ball with the bat.
Yes, but there was a ...
Not 'interrupted the Coach. And I do not wanna talk about it anymore. I
did not hit on purpose, never do something. I recommend you do not push more,
lawyer added little irritated.
-The Coach Wagner would be willing to accept it on your computer.
'I know, but I will not do it. Do you understand?
Are you saying I'm clear enough for you to come into your head? The
rules are the rules. This is like in the army, we rely on the rules. I have to teach
discipline is something you will need for the rest of his life. And you know what,
Rafael ?, life is not fair. The important thing is the team, not what you do or do not
make a specific player. I have guys coming from San Antonio. Why do you think

they do? Why spoil them and let them do what they want? No, of course not. They
come because they get results.
I'm a tough coach and I know, but my teams win games. And children,
and also parents, like winning.
Rafael understood what she was saying, but do not share. He decided to
try another tactic.
'What you're saying now? Is it that you do not look able to teach Elliot?
You're not as good coach as you think if you do not look capable of making it a
winner.
Nice try, Rafael. I imagine that this kind of discourse operates between
lawyers, but not with me. I do not have time to spend with him he said with a
proud smile. What I can not stand is that I got to get to the top of the baseball and
you, no. You try to get this child to succeed because you have not accepted not
being able to play in professional leagues.
Rafael gritted his teeth and took a deep breath before answering. I knew
nothing was going to serve you lose control.
What have you got to lose, Beau? Let train with the team he insisted.
Coach rubbed his chin and looked very thoughtful.
Maybe he does, Rafael. Maybe so ... But only if you are willing to follow
my rules - he said as he approached him and looked retador- air. And I think you're
going to like it too.

Chapter 5
M Elina tried to calm down and looked at Elliot's parents, who watched
from the other side of the table. They were in the conference room of his clinic.
The child sat nearby, playing with a truck in a sandbox. Rafael had called
half an hour earlier and asked him to warn Mr. Anderson to talk to all the time.
None of those present knew what was going to tell the lawyer.
'Have Rafael know? Debbie Anderson asked at that time.
-From We started studying at the institute.
But we had not seen each other for the past ten years.
He lived outside of Texas he informed Melina.
I hear Beau and Rafael already knew, right?
Yes, they were playing baseball for years. Were the two best players in the
local computer. Each year, one of the two he became the best player of the season.
That made were to be a lot of rivalry between the two.
That's what I heard Debbie 'I said. I guess that rivalry can be positive and
make them work even harder to outdo the other she added as she glanced at his
son. Throughout my life, I have always been able to get what I wanted. If you work
hard enough and I focused on my goal, he succeeded. But I was lucky that no one
put me barriers when to do it. They have always given me the opportunity to at
least try to achieve what I wanted.
-A Me, too, 'said Melina as she watched the boy. Excuse me a moment,
Debbie. I'll bring you more toys for the sandbox.
He went into the hall and saw Rafael came just then. But he could do
anything about it, quickened pulse.
Anderson -Ya are here? Rafael whispered.
Yes, they're in the conference room.
He pushed the door slightly so they could talk without being overheard.
Beau is willing to let him play.
-that's Cool ...
With Rafael interrupted -the conditions.
He did not like how he said it. And I knew that they were going to like it
even less conditions.

What do you want?

Elliot would have its own coach.
I do not think Steve cares to.
That would be impossible. The rules are the rules, there can be no parents
present during training.
So I volunteered, I think Beau had it.
A Melina was a lump in my throat at that.
-go ... It's a very generous offer, Rafael.
But there are more conditions yet. Worried that Elliot lose focus and you
are unable calm. You're also wants this. Otherwise, no deal.
Melina stared unable to utter a word. It did not look capable. It seemed
very complicated having to observe workouts and being so close to Rafael. It
would be too hard remembering every moment why he should not be attracted to
him.
"Remember the letter and how he ended our relationship," she said then.
I know it will be hard, Melina. But he said to let him play and ...
'Have you got? Steve asked as he watched from the door of the conference
hall. Is the coach has said he accepts in the team?
Hearing the words of her husband, Debbie also left the room. Melina saw
that his eyes were full of hope. He realized at that moment that I could not refuse.
Elliot had to think and what good he could become that experience for him.
So is replied with a smile as he entered the room.
Mr. Anderson seemed as excited as a child.
-Elliot! Debbie exclaimed with a grin. The Bandero coach told that you
can play on your computer.
The boy froze.
Am I going to be able to win a trophy?
But has put some conditions Rafael interjected as he looked at all those
present. You'll have your own coach during practice.
'There,' said Steve problem quickly.
I can ...
No, no-what parents interrupted Raphael. I offered myself.

But why were going to ...? He started to say Mr. Anderson. Well, thank
you very much.
-It's My pleasure.
Debbie Anderson saw seemed worried.
But I think one of us would be there if ... she said the woman as she
looked at Melina without finishing his sentence.
She knew very well what the woman was saying without words. It was
very common for children with Asperger syndrome lose control and do not know
how to retrieve it without the help of others.
I'm not going to be alone, she assured Debbie Rafael reassuringly. Beau
wants Melina is also present in training if any unforeseen arises. Does it seem
right? he asked as he looked at Elliot's parents.
I do not know, it seems to me to ask you too. At two he remarked Steve.
How are we going to allow this?
Your time is too valuable.
'I love the idea of being able to help Melina Verily I say honestly. And I
think it will be fun.
-Veis? Raphael he told them. All solved.
They chatted a while and then said goodbye. Rafael and left her alone.
What is it you had to do? she asked with a smile. To sell your soul to the
devil?
Could have dinner with me? Raphael replied. I would like to talk about
how you think should focus training with Elliot. You know him very well.
She hesitated for a second before answering, but realized that was best.
After all, they would have to work together to get fit Elliot got the baseball team.
Very well, 'said she. But I'd rather not go to Red, okay? It is a restaurant
too familiar.
If you try to avoid being seen together, we have to go to another city. If
you want, I can order a meal somewhere and bring her here.
They decided it was best and Rafael went for dinner.
Meanwhile, she wiped the sandbox in which he had been playing Elliot
and collected toys. He placed the chairs they had used in place and reviewed on its

agenda patients who had consulted the next day. He did not stop for a moment. I
was too nervous.
But in the end he managed to calm down a bit and sit in a chair. I could
not believe that Beau was forcing the work together. He wondered if he'd stopped
to think about what it meant for them to be whenever Elliot had a baseball training.
Something told him that he was doing it on purpose.
Everyone knew at Red Rock that their relationship had not ended well.
For years, people had been waiting for the moment to be seen again, wondering if
they would go out together or if your love was definitely dead. But I thought that
nobody talked about it, had been too long.
Unfortunately, the return of Rafael had attracted the interest of its
neighbors, who returned to talk about them. It seemed incredible that would be so
interested in the lives of others, but starting to realize that people do not forget so
easily as he had expected.
They would have to be careful not to feed more rumors. But harder still
going to be controlling the attraction she felt for this man.
That did not seem difficult, if not impossible.
Rafael walked to the Red, the restaurant of his uncles Joseph and Mary
Mendoza. It was his brother Marcos, two years younger than him, who ran years.
The largest of the three, Javier, was still living in the city and occasionally
gathered in the restaurant for a beer or dinner.
Michael, the youngest of the Mendoza brothers, lived in New York and
did not see him much. They had a sister, fruit of his father's first marriage.
Her name was Isabella and had only been a year since I discovered their
existence. He liked knowing that his family was growing, especially after the death
of his mother.
The restaurant was an old hacienda in serving the best Mexican food in
town. He liked how they had decorated and always had great atmosphere. They
had a courtyard filled with colorful and adorned with antiques of all kinds, most of
the nineteenth century, when Texas became a state over the union. There were
several paintings depicting battles between Texans and Mexicans fight for
independence. The walls were lined with dark wood. It was a friendly place, a
haven of peace.
And the food served was also excellent. It was enough to get there so you
can make your mouth water.

Even if that restaurant is not your family, would remain his favorite
around Red Rock.
Hello, brother-what greeted Marcos saw him enter.
I love seeing you at last without suit and no tie, as if come back to be
Texan again she added as she hugged him fondly. But where have you left your
cowboy hat?
Though you may seem, I have one in the car.
I found a couple of hats in the attic of Dad when I was there to pick up my
baseball trophies.
Do not tell me you've given all your accomplishments in your living room
...
No, of course not. They are in the office Rafael replied with a smile.
Although you may seem, people would call attention to these things, but my
brothers take years mocking me she added with a wink.
It's that siblings tend to be more sincere.
Rafael laughed.
Did you come to dinner? Marcos asked.
I've come for dinner, but to take home.
You know what we like Dad and me. And enough food to get me on,
please, 'asked Raphael. I also want a couple of servings of your chocolate cake.
I wanted to have enough quantity to take her father after Melina and load
it.
Marcos, who had already turned to go into the kitchen, turned to face him
with a frown.
'Two pieces of pie? he asked his brother.
Rafael nodded.
You have an appointment 'I said Marcos safely.
How did you come to that conclusion? he replied as he crossed his arms.
But fell back to realize that its change of position gave him away.
I see you have not denied. How curious ... Not only is a quote, but also try
to hide it. Not even going to tell your brother's favorite, right? Mark murmured thoughtfully while looking into his eyes

-. I think it'll include taquitos and guacamole to your order. Be that person
has a good appetite.
And how do you know?
It's a small town and people talk. Apparently someone saw you talking to
Melina Angie's wedding.
So? I'm not as unfriendly to ignore, but that does not mean it will dine
with her.
No, but you still deny Marcos insisted while closer to him. Did you have
seen since the wedding?
Yes, but work issues.
'So, when you went to his clinic, does it also was for work? And what kind
of work is that avalaible in hand? she asked mischievously.
What's going on here? Do they have security cameras all over town? he
replied mildly irritated.
I have a much better source of information, customers of the restaurant.
Most Melina and knows you. Everyone likes to talk about what happens in the
village. Besides, Dad loves chocolate cake and Melina always ask when it comes
to dinner. As I know you do not usually order dessert, it has not cost me reach that
conclusion. The truth is that I have not been concluded. The truth is I have not
found it too difficult Marcos' I said as I went into the kitchen.
Good evening, welcome to the Red 'I then told a beautiful girl with long
hair and brown-. Give me a minute to find you a table. Well, unless you prefer to
sit in the bar.
Neither of the two, thanks. I've placed an order and I are preparing replied
the while he offered his hand. Soy Rafael's brother Mark.
She opened her eyes to hear him and shook his hand.
Of course! You're the one who has just returned to town,
Right? I'm Wendy Fortune.
-Fortune?
Yes, I guess you surname sounds, I am family of them. Although I was
born and raised in Atlanta. My father has exiled me to this part of the country, 'said
the young man. But it's a long story ... Well, back Marcos. It was a pleasure
meeting you.
'And you replied Rafael.

-What Did you think Wendy? asked his brother when they were alone.
Not bad at all.
No, but a bit spoiled. He is the youngest of six brothers and has never had
to work hard for anything.
You speak as if you did not grace her here. Why have you hired?
Not what I did. Furthermore, it is the policy of our sister she explained
Marcos family. Takes little time working in the restaurant, but I guess he's learning
a lot.
Well, it's very pretty and that always helps in a job like this with the
public.
-I Guess so.
He smiled at the response of Marcos.
-Supones Yes? I saw how you looked at it, do not tell me you have not
noticed her she said with a half smile. By the way, changing the subject, I've
finally gotten my dad talk honestly and tell me how much he is suffering and has
not exceeded mother's death.
'You really have got to admit it? I think it's great.
They were talking until he was prepared meals. Then he returned to the
clinic Melina. The door of the meeting room was open and saw that she was
talking to a man. It was dark and as long as the hair Melina. When I saw him come
in, whispered something in his ear to the young.
-Rafael! she exclaimed as she turned toward the door. You have been
very rapid.
He tried to interpret his reaction. Do not know if I was somewhat
embarrassed and nervous or if, in fact, was glad to see him. Without knowing why,
she felt jealous at seeing her there with that man.
'I introduce my partner Melina' I said.
Quanah Ruiz.
She gasped when she heard the presentation, but quickly realized that it
was his colleague.
Hi, I'm Rafael Mendoza replied as he turned his hand to the man.
-and I had imagined Quanah- 'I said. Melina was telling me everything
that happened to Elliot and coach, is great news. Good job.

Thank you, 'said Raphael. I brought enough food for three people if they
want to stay. I have chicken enchiladas, chile rellenos, rice, taquitos and
guacamole. And do not you forget me dessert, chocolate cake she added while also
looking at Melina.
-Del Restaurant Red? she asked with a big smile.
-Of Course Rafael replied.
First, he thought that it might be smarter to have another person with them
both, but could not help feeling relieved when Quanah told them he had other
plans.
Melina began opening packages with food as soon as they were alone. He
pulled plates and plastic forks and poured a Coke.
I think I had never heard the name. Where is Quanah? Rafael asked.
His mother was a Comanche. I do not know if you noticed, but has Indian
features. His height and his long black hair are qualities that help you when dealing
with children. Obey immediately. Normally, I work with adults and children with
him. Although, occasionally, we noticed that a patient has more chemistry with the
other person and adapt to each case.
They sat down and began to serve the food.
I saw your grandfather is in a wheelchair 'I said Rafael.
Yes, but not always used only when going to spend much time in one
place and know that can not stand without it. So he used it during my sister's
wedding.
You need to put on a hip replacement, but does not want surgery. He says
he is too old to undergo surgery.
'And what do you think? she asked him.
-has Eighty-six years, but the truth is that it has poor health. The problem
is that he sees no need for surgery and is quite stubborn. Always says no worth and
would prefer and go to heaven with my grandmother Rose.
The conversation stopped suddenly when she gave that name.
Thank you for what you said last night my father remarked Rafael few
seconds later to change the subject. He finally decided to open up and talk about
how much he misses my mother.
You do not know how happy I am. In addition to being married, your
parents worked together. I imagine that the loss is twice as appropriate. I saw a

couple of months ago and I see how I was worried, but last night I found it much
better, I guess it's because of you.
I appreciate you say that, 'Rafael said. It was pretty hard deteriorated see
what it was when I came to Red Rock. It broke my heart.
Well, now seems to have a purpose in hand, something to fight and move
on. That always helps.
I suggested her to come live with me, but do not want.
Give him a little time he advised Melina before trying the first bite.
Mother ... chile rellenos are the best in the world. Make them like nobody
he added with pleasure.
They continued eating without talking too much. Occasionally, looked
askance. He had forgotten how much he liked watching her. His movements were
delicate and elegant. She loved her hair long and straight, and it fall on the curve of
her breasts. He wore jeans that fit him so well as if they were a second skin and
turquoise shirt made his eyes look the same blue.
For years he had moved in environments where women wore dark suits
and serious during the day and black evening dresses. He had met a few very smart
and sophisticated. Women who moved into the business world like a fish in water,
some of them had created software which had changed the world.
Melina, however, concentrated all his energies on changing the life of a
child.
He remembered the words of his father. He believed that Melina did not
know how beautiful and sexy she was.
-are You okay? she asked suddenly.
He supposed that his silence was bothering.
Yes, of course. I know I'm very quiet. I simply enjoy the food.
"And the company," he thought.
Marcos has asked me to greet his part 'I said then as he opened the
package with the chocolate cake and is approached. Do not look, I did not say
anything. Apparently all the people talking about us since we saw talking at the
wedding of your sister.
And I think I have also seen someone coming here.
Although I said nothing, my brother guessed that we would have dinner
together.

'I should not be surprised. Red Rock has grown significantly in recent
years, but still a village.
Especially when our families are so well known.
Melina tried the chocolate cake and closed his eyes for a moment. He
shuddered to hear her moan as he savored the sweet.
Well, why do not you tell me in detail how was your conversation with
Beau?
His first condition was to commission me personally train Elliot. I have to
attend every practice and every game.
-Todos?
-Yup. In his own words, rules are rules. And the second condition
imposed on me was that you were not present.
Melina sat back to hear and looked puzzled.
I understand you want me there for the training. But why do I have to also
go to parties? His parents will be there.
Yes, but not on the bench. That's where the latest indications given to
players.
-What? Am I going to have to be on the bench during games? he asked in
astonishment.
Yes, I guess what you're thinking he told her. And the third condition is
the hardest. If Beau think that Elliot is not ready to play when the season starts,
will have to leave the team.
Not Melina immediately replied as he left the fork on the table. Rafael,
that would be counterproductive.
It's best not to get on the computer. Elliot Imagine how you will feel if
after training and delude matches, the man decides to smash all your dreams. No, I
will not allow it. It can not be.
But we have no choice, Melina. And I am determined to prepare so you
can play, if I have to train with him every day. I have enough friends and relatives
as to even organize a party before the season starts, so you can have that
experience and be more prepared for what might happen. Need to train with
someone other than his father. I think it will work well.
Melina looked at him thoughtfully.
Then he smiled.

You're excited about the idea I murmured with some disbelief.

Well ... The truth is yes. In Ann Arbor, played occasionally with friends,
but work robbed me almost all the free time I had. I miss baseball.
'I understand perfectly. This sport was very important in your life for a
long time, 'Melina said as he began to store food and garbage-he shot. But why do
you think Beau has imposed on you all these conditions?
I was playing with me. He knows he is in a position of power and is taking
advantage.
'That I understand, so forces you to participate in training. But I do not
understand why he insisted so much so that he is also there.
Or is doing matchmaking or about creating friction between the two and
we finish by throwing hairs to entertain. How about you? he asked.
-The Second option, of course Melina 'I said.
'That I believe. So I am determined not to give him that satisfaction 'I said
as he stared at her. Do you think we can do?
I want to get along with you, Rafael, but we have a past and I know it will
not be easy.
Especially when there is still attraction.
He decided it was better to make things clear from the beginning.
Melina hesitate a second before answering.
'That attraction is not the problem. The question is what are we going to
do about it.
He was very clear what he would have liked to do. Things had changed
since they were dating in high school and then college. The two had houses and
lived alone. They had the opportunity to spend the night together if they so wished,
in a comfortable, clean bed, without having to worry about leaving the room at a
specific time. They could even showering together in the morning and have
breakfast in bathrobe.
The silence that fell between the two was full of emotions. He wondered if
Melina also be thinking about something.
Well, I better go, 'she said suddenly as he stood and his coat became.
Thanks for dinner. And everything else.
Rafael followed her and waited for her to close the center door locked.

I'll take care of getting the training schedule Elliot so you can arrange he
told her. I know you did not consult in accepting the proposal of Beau and that's
going to make things difficult enough.
But Melina shook his head.
No, I'm glad to do it. It was amazing to see how her face lit up when he
learned that he would be able to play.
It has ...
A Rafael was puzzled to stop suddenly.
-Vaya! The car of my father ... You better go before it gets out and
approaches.
I'm not a coward, he whispered Melina.
Lawrence Jefferson, a tall, strong man, left his car and went to where they
were.
Hey he told them.
Hi, Dad.
Good evening, Mr. Lawrence. How are you? Rafael asked as he offered
his hand.
Well, thanks, 'said the man. Very well.
But barely paid attention.
Your mother has asked me to come and see if you were here. Apparently,
he has been calling and 'I was worried man told his daughter.
Mobile off-he had replied Melina.
But Rafael knew it was not entirely true. He had been silent over dinner,
but had overlooked it had vibrated several times and she had decided not to
answer.
-We Had an important meeting replied Melina.
Your mother wanted you to come to dinner house, 'his father said.
'I've dined, but she said' I thank you.
Jefferson looked Rafael carrying bag with what was left of the food.
Well, then come to us company for a while.
Your sister will also be home. And your grandfather.
Stephanie works for me, Dad. Have you forgotten?

I see it every day. Grandpa And I'll see you tomorrow morning.
Remember that Wednesday to drive out together.
Who leads the two?
-Conduce It. It's part of my job to evaluate how you drive and see if you
are prepared to do or should leave Melina he reminded his father.
I'm surprised you have not yet had an accident
he murmured Mr. Lawrence.
Abuelo's going pretty well. I think it will soon be driving alone.
His father swore and Rafael could not help laughing.
Yeah, it's funny until you get to live with this man replied.
I hope my father alive enough to make your driving becomes a problem,
Mr. Rafael 'I said with respect.
Jefferson was silent for a few seconds before answering.
Well, we've both lost our mothers,
Right? he said then. And we have no hurry to run out of our parents also
added with emotion.
Aye, sir, 'said Rafael.
Then, you come home with me, child? asked Mr. Lawrence. Your mother
misses you.
Rafael realized that he was the father of Melina which seemed miss her
very much. Or maybe he was trying to stay away from her ex-boyfriend.
I'm sorry, Dad. I can not replied Melina.
I'll talk to her for dinner last night.
Did you bring the car? 'I then asked her father.
Only are five minute walk to my house, 'she said with a smile.
Wear-and I insisted Mr. Lawrence.
Seemed to want to avoid at all costs to spend more time with Rafael.
Thank you, Dad, but I feel like a walk. Until another day Melina said as
he gave an affectionate kiss.

Rafael and she stood watching his father reluctantly walked away and
returned to his car. He walked away a little speed and Melina could see was
watching the rearview mirror.
I think I was hoping to finish by desist and Rafael me out 'I said.
Melina was silent for a few seconds, trying to decide how to explain why
he behaved like his father. They had had a hard time seeing how much he had
suffered after Rafael broke up with her and knew that parents do not easily forgive
those things.
My father has never been a man too subtle

he said.

No, it is not replied Rafael laughing. But does what it should do all
parents love and protect their children.
Seconds were silent.
Do you mind if I walk you home? he suggested Rafael.
He was tempted to allow him to. During these last days, he had felt that
Rafael was tucking in his world, a world that had nothing to do with the future they
had planned when they were young. Believed that their lives had gone very
different ways. Neither were together and had chosen the races with which they
had dreamed.
He believed that Rafael had changed a lot, had a lot of self-confidence.
We were pleasantly surprised to see how he knew negotiate with Beau. It had been
able to ignore the past that had the two, who were rivals and enemies for years. He
believed that only someone with great powers of persuasion might be able to
convince someone as stubborn as Beau.
If you had not agreed to help with Elliot, would have finished fighting
with Beau. And so I would not have gotten anything she told him then. I guess at
this point, it would have tried to put a lawsuit or something.
And that would not have helped. Because, although it seems impossible, it
is not doing anything illegal. At least for now.
-De Moment?
We'd better go slowly, Melina.
Try to work well together and not allow Beau have the satisfaction of
seeing losing papers.
-The Truth is that I can not even imagine losing the papers, 'she confessed.

Young, had been very emotional and passionate.

He believed that more mature Rafael was controlled much better.
'I'm so calm and patient as you think, but I learned to control myself
Rafael assured him watching her intently. I'm a man with normal needs, Melina,
with normal desires. And I can lose patience as anyone else when they make me
wait too long. Do not you remember that about me?
He remembered it perfectly. He loved to see him lose control, made her
feel very wanted. It was something I had not appreciated much in those moments,
just had experience. But, eventually, he had learned to appreciate the intensity with
which Rafael behaved when they made love, as if there were nothing else in the
world, just her and the desire he felt.
Although just assure you that had not changed, Rafael watched idly.
Patiently waiting for a response. Rather than with words, I stood on tiptoe and
kissed him. Rafael quickly overcame the initial surprise and kissed him back.
On the one hand, it was like coming home after a long time. On the other
hand, there was something new to her lips, which tempted her and invited to
rediscover. The kiss got arouse desire within.
But do not know if he was willing to risk so much to make the same
mistakes. She pulled away from him and put his hand to his lips, then stroked the
Rafael and saw that he looked with eyes full of desire.
She felt the same, but did not want to show his cards. But I knew they
were saying many things without words.
Yes, I remember perfectly she whispered then.
Then he turned and walked away without another word.
Knew he was watching, I could feel it. Rafael wanted to, but he could not
risk much.
If you fall for him again, thought it would be even harder to overcome and
feared that the pain was so forever.

Chapter 6
THE next morning, Melina had to use all the patience that had
accumulated during their working years as a therapist to keep the nerves. It was
hard to do when I was next to his grandfather driving on Sycamore Avenue. If
stating that he was prepared to bring a car, would be able to renew your driving
license two weeks later.
-The Next week will drive my van, not this your car so small.
I think it's a good idea, but the seat is much higher and would need a
ladder to get on.
-and I'll think of something. Remember I'm eighty-six, not one hundred
six, Miss. I head still works perfectly well even I survive living alone.
But you know very well that, if deemed necessary, may ask you to ever do
the driving test.
-and You told me, more than once, 'said his grandfather.
Do-what because it seems that you forget.
Not I forget anything.
It was always difficult to deal with it, but this morning seemed worse
mood than other days. Although his grandparents had always lived nearby and was
often, he had not known his grandfather truth until he returned to live with him and
help him with the care they needed his grandmother Rose after suffering a stroke.
He sighed at the memory. It was the year in which his life changed forever.
It did not take long to decide that he would not return to the University of
Michigan and that he wanted to be a therapist.
That decision had led to his break with Rafael, but perhaps had finished to
happen anyway.
Have you seen Rafael? she asked suddenly his grandfather.
-Yup. He's been helping me solve a problem I had with one of my
patients, a child, 'she said without looking around. By the way, thanks for talking
to him on the day of the wedding of Angie. I think my parents ignored.
Well, I could not help it. I spent all day sitting in that wheelchair and
could not have been hiding to avoid that I should speak.
Not much you complain, Grandpa. You know I got that chair you were
comfortable and rested for a long day. Why are you in such a bad mood today?

He grabbed the dashboard instinctive way to see his grandfather made a

turn to the left without waiting for it to pass a car going in the opposite direction.
The other driver honked repeatedly to show their anger.
Well, I suppose I should have expected to happen muttered the old man.
-Lo I suppose? What's wrong with you today?
His grandfather took a few seconds to answer.
I do not know, I think I woke up on the wrong foot.
Bad sleep, the bed is very large and there is always an empty hand ...
A Melina's heart sank at his words.
-Nunca Has crossed your mind the possibility of leaving with some lady
of your age?
He said it as if an afterthought, without giving too much importance. But
the truth was that had long been trying to get this issue with his grandfather.
Sure that among older women, are an all eligible bachelor she said.
-Do You think? she asked with a smile rather sad.
I think that all they need is a bit renew your appearance. Nothing more.
I see you do not lose even a chance to try to convince me. I'm too old for
surgery of the hip and to date anyone. Since your grandmother died, there have
been many women who have come to bring me some food or to see how I am.
But none can compare with Rose.
Melina felt her voice trembled and watch the road stopped to look at him
askance. It seemed more fragile than ever.
You feel alone, right?
Yes, of course. I am very lonely. Whatever foolish enough to say
otherwise in my circumstances, is lying. For fifty-two, your grandmother was
everything to me. Since he died, I feel like I need air, 'said his grandfather firmly
-. So I do not want you to mention me again what ladies, right? I'm not so
alone.
-very Well. I'll keep that in mind she replied. By the way, need you to help
me with something.
He saw his grandfather straightened a little at that.
'What is it?

Could you stand in front of the store of Howard, please? 'I asked her.
Is it that you are thinking about playing sports?
he asked as he parked his grandfather.
Maybe so.
His grandfather laughed.
'That one really like to see it. If you came even to suspend several times
PE at school ...
But it was not because I knew it was bad, but because I did not care She
defended her.
He saw smiling and loved seeing something more cheerful.
Additionally, you really would need the help of a captain as experienced
as his grandfather before entering what were completely unknown to her waters.
Rafael had just reached the sports center that afternoon when his cell
phone rang. He replied as he went to the place where children trained. He saw
Melina or Elliot, but it was early and not worried.
Hello?
Rafael, I'm Ross Fortune.
-Ross! Long time no hear from you! I have not seen since the wedding of
JR and Isabella. How is the business of private investigation?
It's going very well. I do not know what does that say about the society in
which we live, but I can not complain.
He laughed at that.
'I told my cousin Jeremy spoke with you to see what to do with the baby
theme. He told me that he counseled to go to the police.
Yes, it was. What has he done?
Yes, but everything is complicated enough. You know who was the exgirlfriend Kirsten's brother, Jeremy's fiancee, who left the little Anthony in their
care.
My cousin and his fiancee have been granted temporary custody of the
baby, but there are still too many questions in the air. It is very complicated. It
seems that nobody is who they claim to be and too many lies. I do not know where

to look to find the biological parents of Anthony. I find it amazing that someone
leave without even leaving a note.
While talking to Ross, I saw a girl running around the field. She had a
child with her. He squinted to see if it was ...
Although he had stayed with her to attend the training Elliot, it took a
while to realize it was Melina. Never seen her dressed like that. She wore her long
hair tied in a ponytail tucked under a baseball cap. He also wore sunglasses, a T
Rangers black pants and sneakers. The shirt was tight enough so that the sway of
her breasts as she ran so completely hypnotized. He could not help but think that
part of his anatomy. He remembered it perfectly. He had not forgotten their shape,
size and texture of the nipples as he passed his tongue over ...
Then what do you think? Ross asked.
His tone made him realize that it was not the first time he wondered.
-How?
'I was asking for advice. Have any suggestions, any ideas? What would
you do if you were to trace the biological parents of the baby? We need to know
who he is and if he was abandoned by their parents or kidnapped by someone else.
Not think of anything right now happens. I told Jeremy that this kind of
thing is not my specialty, but it may be a good idea to see us one day three, dine
together and try to find a new mode of action that works. That's all I can think of.
Also, I love to see you.
-Estupendo, Jeremy will come in handy to take a break, especially if we
can get something clear. The last few weeks have been very stressful for him.
In addition to the disappearance of his father and the baby has moved its
office visit to Red Rock. It has too many things on my mind.
How long have you know nothing about William?
Rafael asked.
-and Are three months without knowing where it is. I've lost hope, but
Jeremy is sure that his father is still alive Ross assured him. Well, talk to him and
tell me when you decidis about dinner. Anything you can say to help is welcome,
Rafael.
I'll try, do not worry.
He said goodbye Ross and played with mobile phone in his hands as he
watched Melina. He went to him and not running at the same pace. He saw he had
flushed cheeks and superficially breathing exercise I had been doing.

In one hand he wore a baseball glove and ball looked new.

Elliot also reached him, but only had eyes for her. After Melina kiss him
last night had cost him a lot of work to recover common sense and return to your
car. It was a gentle kiss, but full of desire. Mild and intense simultaneously. He had
managed to arouse needs that had tried to control without much luck.
It had been bleak after returning to his empty house. He had sat on the
sofa in the dark, trying to analyze what had just happened. It seemed impossible
that would be able to concentrate on baseball workouts if a brief kiss had gotten
affect that.
Hello, Rafael Mendoza Elliot she greeted him enthusiastically.
Hey, kid. Are you ready to play?
Yes, I am, sir.
He looked back to Melina. The cap and sunglasses hid most of his face
and it was impossible to guess what he was thinking.
I see that you are also prepared 'I said Rafael
-. Is that going to play?
I'd rather work in training. I have found better idea than merely observe
what you do from the stands.
'So you learned to swim and play baseball, right?
No, but I have imagined that, at this level, can not be too complicated.
At that time, it seemed the loveliest creature he had ever known. His face
innocence and enthusiasm.
Can we start playing now? Elliot asked.
There were several children practicing in the field, throwing baseballs at
each other. Beau and three boys, would surely be his assistants then approached.
Now come. Start with the kids. Put them in pairs to begin shooting 'said
the coach told the young people. And you, what are you waiting for?
Go with your team she added as she looked at Elliot.
The boy opened his eyes and looked at Rafael.
-Right Now I do not worry 'I told him reassuringly. You can do it. Stick to
throw the ball and get it. It's something you've done with your father, right?
Yes, 'said Elliot with little security.

Elliot was slowly toward the group of children, occasionally looking back.
A Melina they wanted to hug him and tell him not to worry, that everything would
be fine.
'Nice set, Melina Beau' I then said as he looked up and down.
-Thx. I thought it was appropriate for this site and for my new job, 'she
said.
'What do you mean? asked the coach.
Well, I am deputy assistant coach Melina replied wryly.
Beau laughed heartily.
'How funny!
Le bother much to laugh at her.
I'm not kidding, I want to help.
I have very good reputation, did not you know? There are people who
bring their children from other villages to train them myself. I do not think they
inspire much confidence.
Well, as one of your rules prohibiting parents to attend training, how
would they know? On the other hand, why do you think I do not inspire
confidence? Indeed, it gives me great inspiring others, it's part of my job.
Your total lack of talent for physical activity was well known in high
school. Perhaps have you improved since then? asked the coach.
Why do you simply not allow help? -the interrupted Raphael. What is
wrong?
A Melina did not like to try to defend it.
-I Can I deal, Rafael. Thank she said rather coldly.
He looked at her intently.
Very well, whatever you want 'I Rafael said.
He left her and went to meet with Elliot. Melina saw Beau seemed to be
really enjoying the situation. So he decided to behave maturely and thanked him
that he had decided to allow Elliot participate in the team.
I think you will be surprised how quickly you can learn the rules of the
game 'I told her.

I have studied the situation on my own, Melina. And while it may not cost
you memorize the rules, I fear it will be difficult to learn what the game and what
to do at all times.
But none of these children have learned from overnight and no one
expected it to be so.
It's true. But most has been involved in baseball-related activities since
age four. They have worked hard to reach this level at his age.
Sure. And his ability to play depends on your reputation, right? she asked
sarcastically.
So is Beau replied firmly.
Seconds were silent. He was not easy to talk to this man, but he had to
swallow his pride.
Rafael told me you wanted it to be on the bench during games.
Yes, but during workouts can sit anywhere Beau 'I said. I've always
admired, Melina. I think you have guts. But in this place, the boss is me.
Understood she murmured.
Beau away to return to the team.
Somewhat disappointed, went to sit on the bench. He entertained playing
baseball glove that his grandfather had helped him choose.
He watched Elliot and Rafael. He did not let either sun or shade. I could
not hear what he said from where he was and he did not see the expression of
Elliot. The other children did not speak to him, but saw that they were too busy
with different exercises to do. He knew that Elliot never start a conversation with
them, would have to be his companions who make the first move.
They started hitting exercises and gave the impression that everyone held
their breath to see that Beau was preparing to throw the first ball. Elliot did not fail
even once.
Did you see that, guys? asked the coach
-. Here's how it's done. I think everyone could learn something from
Elliot. Her eyes on the ball all the time.
It's an expression Elliot replied then.
Means that the observed carefully. My average success rate is seventy-five
percent.

Melina sighed at that. He knew that such comments were not going to
become the most popular guy around. They could not understand that Elliot was
limited to give information and was sure they would think he was trying to show
off.
When he finally finished the training, Melina was bored and starving. She
wanted to participate and help some more. Although it cost him to admit, part of it
was wanting to learn to play good baseball. Beau did not want to laugh and she
turned to Rafael treat her like an inept.
'You've done very well, he said Rafael boy Elliot as they went to the
parking lot.
But I could not catch with his glove no ball boy replied.
Not yet, but I get. It takes a lot of practice. Tomorrow afternoon, we will
work together so you can learn, right?
Elliot nodded. It seemed disappointed.
'I was delighted to see you with the baseball bat Melina' I said.
That's easy, 'said Elliot.
Not as easy as you think. I can not.
It's you're a girl, 'said the child.
Rafael laughed.
-The Girls can also hit, Elliot she defended her as she looked at askance
Rafael to stop him laugh. Someday, we can go to a game of women's baseball
team.
But in the pros there are only men.
I know, Elliot. But maybe it's time to change the things she replied. In
other sports, there are professional women's teams. As with basketball or golf.
But there are no women in football. It is a tough sport and players are
often injured frequently.
They reached the parking and Elliot saw their waiting parents.
'I've successful with all balls have thrown me! exclaimed excitedly.
I'm sorry I interfered when you were talking to Beau Rafael 'I said as the
boy ran to his parents. He was acting like a madman.
That's nothing new.

But it's even worse than when we were in high school he told her. So it
was just an idiot with delusions of grandeur. Now it has become a full professional
exjugador resentment.
They were a talking to Elliot's parents to tell them how he had been
training time.
-and I've told Elliot that tomorrow will practice with the glove. We can
not do it here, of course, but I'll find some -Les site Rafael told the parents.
Tell us where and we'll be there, 'said Steve Anderson.
Elliot had already gotten into the car and was putting on a seatbelt.
I think it would be better if we were alone together Rafael whispered so as
not to hear the boy. After the first experience today, I think he's comfortable with
me. If you do not mind, of course.
-Podrs Be too? asked Steve to Melina. Hope this does not offend you,
Rafael. But only you know and ...
I'll be there she interrupted. We can train in the garden of my parents. Is
quite large he added as he watched Rafael.
'All right,' said he.
But he realized that he did not relish the idea.
Well, Steve. Then e-mail address command you. Why do not aprovechis
to go away for dinner and spend some time alone? Elliot can eat with us in the
house of my parents. My mother will love the idea.
I'm sure.
Thank you, Melina. I'll let you decide what - I replied Mr. Anderson. As
you well know, does not like being with people you do not know. But it has given
me the impression that he was more lively, right?
Yes, it's true, 'said Melina.
-HA Left everyone with an open mouth in training Rafael remarked
admiringly as she squeezed Steve's shoulder. You did a great job teaching him to
bat.
Thank said Mr Anderson.
They took leave of them and went to where she had parked. There were
many people around. The cars came and went, with parents who collected their
children after training.

You're going to want to play with us tomorrow? - Rafael asked as she

opened the car door.
You mean you have permission?
Although do you just be a girl?
I suppose so, he replied with a half smile.
We need a ball boy.
You're very funny she told him. Are you going to want to stay for dinner
after training?
He tried his tone was fairly light, as if he did not care your answer. If they
would work together or even have some friends, I would have to pretend that his
presence did not affect her at all.
-I Do not know. I think you'd better not ask your parents before, Melina. I
guess I'm not his favorite saint, right?
I do not think refuse.
Then I gladly accept. Thank You.
He said goodbye to her to go to his car, but turned soon after.
Will it be able to be independent Elliot someday and live on your own?
she asked then.
Maybe so. Many people with Asperger syndrome live a fairly normal life.
I know that baseball is going to help much. Learn teamwork is essential to function
in life.
'How I did it? Is there anything I should consider or change?
Well, when the opportunity arises, remind them to be careful what you say
to not offend anyone. You have to tell each occurrence. Repetition is key she told
him. I get the impression that you're enjoying this.
Yes, I missed the baseball Rafael replied as he pushed his eyes to the
fields-. I remember you came to see me every game. He could distinguish your
voice from the rest of the people.
What do you mean by that? Am I calling you screaming?
Yes, something like a girl-megaphone Rafael replied laughing.
He punched in the shoulder and they both laughed.
They had not had a moment from their paths crossed again. At that
moment he thought that maybe they could become friends.

Hello, Rafael! They had already told me you were back at Red Rock then
said someone behind them.
He turned and saw that it was a beautiful redhead. She wore very tight
jeans and tight and low cut shirt.
Hello, Melina said the woman while looking at her.
It was then that he recognized.
Hello, June replied Melina.
During high school, June and her boyfriend were the other pair of
fashionable addition to Rafael and Melina. Everyone had that had just married, and
so had happened to you.
Wade Adams and June had been married ten years and had two children.
He could not help but frown at how hugged Rafael. We liked the fact that
he placed his hands on her waist and gently away.
'How? How are you, June? he asked.
I'm fine, honey. Fairly well coyly replied the woman stroking her arm.
Why are you dressed like that?
I'm helping to train one of baseball teams. Do not you?
Rafael seemed to have eyes only for her and could not help feeling
jealous. She knew her husband would not like to see anything like that June flirting
with another man.
I'm writing an article for the local newspaper about the start of the
baseball season. What if I take the opportunity to combine the two stories and talk
about the start of the season and your back to Red Rock?
Beau's who have to talk. All this is thanks to him.
June subtly moved to stand between Rafael and Melina.
-and Talked to him last year. I would bring a new angle this time, 'said the
woman.
Melisa realized that any story to speak of Rafael and his return to baseball
in Red Rock would have to include Elliot and, first of all, they had to talk to their
parents. He motioned with his head to Rafael to tell him no.
I'm not interested. But thanks, he said Raphael June. Glad to see you.
Goodbye, Melina - Raphael said. Glad to see you. Goodbye, Melina - said looking
at her as he walked to his car.

When they were alone, June gave her full attention.

-there You see how beautiful you are with your baseball cap!
He did not like the condescending tone of June. He was surprised that
speak well, they had always treated with respect.
How is Wade? Melina asked.
June looked away before answering.
'We have separated.
'What you say? I had no idea! he said with sincere concern.
Was surprised not to hear.
You're the first person that I tell. Well, my parents do know, of course. It
just happened. I can not even tell you what happened, but I think things went ill for
some time. I guess we've changed and we want different things. I know it's a
clich, but it's true.
-Be At it, guess it's hard.
-What it is, but we will overcome. I think children have not yet
understood. They are so small ... Anyway, I'm looking for a better job. If you hear
anything ...
'Of course,' said Melina as he hugged her.
They stayed a few seconds. Then June pulled away and walked away from
her without saying anything else.
He watched as he walked to his car. His gait was completely different. No
wiggled her hips as he had done when he came to speak with Rafael and with it.
He went slowly, as if afraid to stumble.
What had happened to June and Wade made him reflect. Realize that its
relationship with Rafael could have come to fail in the medium term if they had
gone ahead with their plans and he had married. Had then been too young to know
which way you were going to run their lives. Ten years later, he realized they
wanted different things, had different dreams.
I thought the two of them have been able to keep the flame of passion, but
I knew that a good sexual relationship was not enough for a happy marriage.
Expected those months that would have to be during training and matches
serve them to regain their friendship. If both were to live in Red Rock, would be
much nicer not having to mutually avoided.

But I knew I was not going to be easy seeing another woman. Within
minutes he had spent chatting with June had been enough to arouse his jealousy.
Expected to find better and more secure his friendship with Rafael before
I had to see it with some other woman in the streets of that town.

Chapter 7
SE you have dropped more balls than me 'I said the next afternoon Elliot
Melina seriously.
They had already completed training and were ready for dinner.
Melina shrugged and smiled.
Well, I'm starting. It is normal. But we have not done badly, right, Coach?
-Do Not. You have done well 'I Rafael said.
Melina's mother, Patsy, took almost an hour to cook for them and, from
time to time, looked out the kitchen window. His father had not come home, but
Grandpa had been watching closely training from a chair that was placed in the
garden and, occasionally, made comments to her granddaughter.
Let me the glove 'I asked Melina as she passed beside her. What left
overnight tied with a belt like I told you?
Yes, sir. I did replied Melina.
Well, leave it to me for a while. I will try to shape it. If you get to stay
with shaped bowl, it will be much easier to catch.
Rafael watched and saw no Elliot looked into his eyes. He thought that it
might be by his tone or age. It was not the first time I wondered what it would be at
the head of Elliot and what he was thinking to see everything going on around him.
From the beginning, it had attracted his attention with trophies he had outlined in
his office. I thought that had created some connection between the two, but I had to
continually remind that Elliot should be more specific and direct. He had noticed
that Melina was more familiarity. With it seemed relaxed, hoping to soon have the
same relationship with the child.
Melina handed down the gauntlet to his grandfather gave him a hug. He
returned the gesture with a smile. He had always been, a loving and caring person.
He believed he could have become a good lawyer, someone who truly cared by
customers. He recalled that his plan had been to help those who could not afford
good lawyers.
He had little time practicing lawyer, but had managed to make money.
Not all of his income came from the firm, was also risky and invested in some of
the companies he represented. Sometimes, he had lost money but had almost
always won. That he had achieved economic security had been given the
opportunity to leave his job at the law and return to Red Rock to be near his father.

When they entered the house, accompanied Melina Elliot the bathroom.
Then he kissed his mother and washed his hands in the kitchen sink.
Thank you for inviting me to dinner, he said Patsy Rafael
-. It smells great.
I have prepared fried chicken replied the lady. And I've invited your father
to dine with us.
He was surprised that I had done.
And have you accepted?
-Yup. It is the first time you do it. I've invited several times since your
mother died.
Well, it seems that begins to warm up a bit.
-Yup. And I think it's because of you. Has been instrumental you back to
Red Rock.
He thanked his words. I had always loved this woman and knew the
feeling was mutual. He spoke politely, but he also thought it was somewhat cooler.
-What Would you do, Mom? 'I then asked Melina.
Could you set the table in the dining room, please?
Put the dark green tablecloth.
Now I help you, 'said Raphael. But I will wash my hands before.
After doing so, he opened the cupboards and pulled plates, glasses and
cutlery for dinner.
If that bothers you're here, do not come over she told Patsy. I know
Melina invited us today without you knowing.
The woman smiled.
-The Truth is it's a little weird, but let bygones be bygones.
Elliot left the bathroom and went straight to the kitchen. He stood staring
at the door, not knowing what to do.
My daughter has told me that you love baseball 'I said Patsy. Working in
the library and I saw a book that I think you would really like. What I have there
on the kitchen table. What you had already read?
Elliot was at the table, looked at him and shook his head. He sat on the
chair and began to read.

Rafael saw above the child's head was a book about baseball with all kinds
of statistics.
I do not think my name on that book she told Elliot with a smile.
You were good enough to play in the professional league Elliot replied
without looking up from her book.
Your comment got stir something inside what had not thought about for
years.
Maybe so, but had other plans Rafael replied.
He took things to the dining room, where Melina was just putting napkins.
It was very strange to be there after so long. He recalled the many times they had
put together that table. Melina also used to eat at home Family Rafael.
-June Told me that Wade and she just separated Melina he said then. I had
no idea.
I always thought they went well.
Do you remember your wedding? she asked him.
They had gone together to the wedding, just before they went to college.
After the banquet, they did not stop dancing and dreaming of her own wedding.
There has never came to promise, but gave him a ring that had promised him that
one day he would ask her to marry him.
He had often dreamed how it would be that time. I wanted to make
something wonderful and unforgettable.
Knowing that Melina expected to be asked, he wanted at least a way to do
outside surprising.
He remembered how happy she had felt at the time, at the wedding of his
friends, thinking of all the plans they had and the independence they would enjoy
in college. After the dance, had been in his car to a secluded spot near the river,
where they had made love. He had that recorded in his mind like an afterthought
time. I could almost see her naked and next, enjoying that moment. Since the
break, had never dated a woman who physically resembled Melina and had done
so on purpose.
She wondered if she would remember that night in the same way. He saw
then that he had been very serious and breathed more superficially. I knew what I
was thinking the same thing as him. The memories had managed to excite and he
had been the same. It was clear and Melina noticed.
He approached her to talk without being overheard.

There was barely room between the two.

Why do I kissed the other night? she asked in a whisper.
'I could not help it.
'What are we gonna do with that?
With what?
With this attraction, Melina. Still there has not disappeared.
'That was not part of my plan. I thought maybe we could become friends,
nothing more recognized Melina as she walked over to him. Maybe we should include
this attraction in my plan ... he added in a very suggestive manner.
'Look who I've found outside the house!
They both gasped at the voice of the father of Melina in the kitchen and
quickly spread, like two teenagers who feared being caught doing something
inappropriate.
The tone of Mr. Lawrence was strong enough who heard from the dining
room.
-Luis, You want a beer? She offered Mr. Lawrence.
Rafael could not hear her father, who spoke in a lower tone.
They ended quickly set the table. When Melina's father entered the room,
they were much calmer.
Hi, Dad Melina she greeted him closer to kiss.
How's my girl? replied the man. Hello, Rafael.
Hello, Mr. Lawrence. Good night.
Hand with education were given, but the man looked at him with
suspicion. Also entered his father and Rafael went with them to the back porch,
which was still Grandpa.
It was a relief to Melina herself alone in the dining room.
He returned to the kitchen and sat down with Elliot. It seemed that I was
comfortable there. His parents had gone to dinner at a restaurant, something that
could almost never do.
Stephanie Are you going to dinner with us? she asked her mother.

-Do Not. Now that Angie has left the apartment, you have to find another
roommate and now he had been with a few girls to show it. Can you get salad from
the fridge? I think the pan is hot enough and you can turn off the oven. And those
green beans must be put in a bowl.
He did everything he had asked his mother. He liked that she had not
asked any questions, but figured that would be wanting to know why he had
invited to dinner Rafael.
We're trying to help Elliot 'I Melina told his mother when everything was
ready for dinner.
Everything all this is for Elliot? her mother asked in disbelief.
-Yup. But I also hope that Rafael and I can regain our friendship.
-A Your father did not make any grace that has come into your life.
'And you do you think?
I know there's a lot of chemistry between the two, I can see it. But I do not
want you to suffer again, Melina.
Finally, they began to dinner. At first the atmosphere was a little tense, but
gradually came up the conversation. Elliot concentrated on his food and I finished
everything, including pecan pie.
Thank you for this wonderful dinner, Patsy he said to the hostess's father
Rafael. Long time did not prove such a rich chicken. No I did since I ...
I've used the recipe from Elena. She taught me to do 'I Melina's mother
said. I remember a lot of it, but mostly when I make certain dishes. It was the best
cook I've ever known.
Luis Mendoza nodded but looked.
-Os I counted as Melina has advised me to take my girlfriend? suddenly
asked his grandfather to change the subject.
His words encouraged conversation again.
Rafael and she looked into his eyes and smiled. It was a wonderful time, it
was almost as if they were family.
Soon after, Elliot's parents arrived to pick it up. His grandfather yawned
exaggeratedly. He knew it was his way of asking him to take her home. Realized it
was better so he. I did not want to be alone again with Rafael.

When he finally got home, after accompanying his grandfather, put on

your swimsuit. He had accumulated a lot of energy and needed a swim. Made
longer than usual, needed the exercise to try to calm down.
Then he stuck his head out of the water and rested his forehead on the
edge before leaving.
Do you need a towel you?
He was not surprised to hear his voice. A part of her had expected to
happen, that Rafael was to visit that night. But on the other hand, knew it was not
good idea.
He raised his head. Rafael was crouched in front of her. He had been
waiting and had a towel in his hands.
-Yup.
It was the only possible answer.
He left the pool and went into his arms.

Chapter 8
M ELINA barely had time to open the door of his house before Rafael
crush her against her. He grabbed her hands above her head and her towel fell.
The swimsuit she wore was just a barrier that separated them, quite the
opposite. Creating more friction with every movement of Rafael on his body.
I'm just going to ask you once he said he placed his forehead on hers. Is it
okay to continue?
She nodded, and before he could say anything, Rafael kissed her
passionately, as if to devour. Then, slowly, kissing became more slow and sensual.
It was as if savoring.
Meanwhile, his hands clenched tightly.
Some time later, he released her, leaving your hands free to touch. He
stroked her back and fell to his butt. He took the movement to draw her closer to
his body and began kissing her neck.
She had soaked hair and a few drops of water falling on Rafael and his
own body. Melina smelled of chlorine and showering would have loved but could
not wait a second longer. He wore many days, too, waiting for it to happen. I
needed it, wanted it and could not think of anything else.
It was amazing to feel his arms. She dug her nails into his back and
shoulders while Rafael through his body with kisses, caresses and bites.
It was coming down slowly, very slowly. When he felt his mouth between
her legs, arched back the body.
It was so amazing to be with him, feel his warm breath on the most
intimate part of her body. It was not difficult to find the most sensitive place,
getting her shiver.
Then Rafael joined. She took his hand and led him upstairs to his
bedroom. I would have loved to know what to say at that time, I also wanted to
know what he was thinking Rafael, but all was said and was carried away by the
desire not wanting to think about anything else.
Rafael turned on the lights of the tables and pulled the covers off the bed
and linens. When he looked, it seemed another man. Much more mature and sure
the young man who had been the most important relationship in your life. I knew I
had a lot of experience and he could not help it to pass through your head how
many women ...
Take off the suit he ordered then.

And she could not think of anything else.

He did what he had asked. Then he undressed while observing. He had a
strong, muscular and perfect body. She longed to touch, caress it, feel it inside.
I'm on the pill, 'she whispered as he approached Rafael.
It was not the first time they made love, but figured there would be many
different and new things. And the memories that were to take that night would
replace the last. He wondered if it would be a good thing but thought it best not to
worry about it. There was no turning back.
He stroked the torso of Rafael and was down gently with your fingers to
the abdomen. He loved noted that ran out of breath as he put his cock with her
hand. He began to stroke, shuddering to see that he was about to lose control.
Keep it up and I will not serve anything ... he whispered.
'That's why do not worry, the night is long,' she said mischievously.
Rafael let Melina continue exploring and playing with his body a few
minutes. Then he took the initiative and led her to the bed. He leaned over her,
between her legs. He kissed her again, more passionately yet. At that time, there
was nothing else, just the two of them lost in the world of eroticism.
Melina hugged him with her legs and felt her warmth against her.
Rafael felt her arch and tense, heard her gasps and moans, and closed his
eyes tightly as she dug her nails and began to move rhythmically and energetically.
He took one of her nipples between his lips, sucking and stroking it with his teeth.
He never tired of touching it, was about to completely lose control and she seemed
chaining an orgasm with another.
Then he buried his fingers through the soft curls of her sex and began to
caress her. He let out your mouth after you do the work.
I do not have to wait long. Melina reacted quickly, catching the head of
Rafael hands and hips up towards him. He shouted loudly, enjoying the time
freely, without timidity.
Then she pulled him to be stopped and that was when Rafael finally
slipped inside.
It was amazing to feel again that union with Melina.
I was in paradise, but realized that he would need more, much more.

A few minutes later, Melina took the sheet that Rafael had pulled down to
cover her. He was on his back beside her, trying to catch his breath and crossed
arm over his eyes.
He looked around as he waited for her to say something. Her bedroom
was simple. In bed had an ivory and green pillows quilt, but Rafael had thrown
everything down. The pine furniture had bought at a flea market and herself had
restored. I thought they were pictures of his family which made the room were
particularly welcoming. He had also decorated the walls with some pictures of his
mother, full of flowers and bright colors.
I was wanting to know what Rafael was thinking at the time. He hoped he
had not fallen asleep. It was possible that he was trying to avoid having to talk to
her.
It was a moment of great passion and had not felt uncomfortable at any
time. He wondered if he would spend the night there. I was also wanting to know
what was going to happen the next day, how they would continue to be addressed
after what just happened.
Rafael then took his hand and opened his eyes. He looked and saw that he
was serious.
He still gives us very well 'I he said.
'Yes,' she said.
He continued to watch for a few seconds.
You want me to go?
A Melina felt his stomach to hear. I had a lump in her throat and she
wanted to mourn. It hurt to even wanted to stay a little longer there with her in bed.
As you wish you, Rafael.
The truth was I did not know whether he preferred to leave or to stay.
During those days, they had only talked to Elliot, Red Rock or their families. They
were not the most appropriate for that time issues.
But on the other hand, was not as uncomfortable as might have been
expected after what had happened.
There was still a lot of attraction between the two. The time and distance
had merely intensify and strengthen the attraction.
She wore
a short and relationships dren taking surface. I did not
know if he would be able to have something with Rafael. He thought they could
perhaps continue as they were until the end of the baseball season.

-The Truth is that I do not mind repeating ... 'I Rafael said while standing
sideways to look better. But I do not want to stay if you're going to be
uncomfortable.
It's your decision.
No, it is not. Yes or no, Melina? Do I stay or should I go?
She thought it best not to stay. I did not want to spend the next few hours
with him chatting or watching TV. It was still too early to go to bed.
If you leave now, what about us? Does this not to happen again? 'she
asked.
-What Do you mean by that? What are you trying to suggest?
Do they want to have me occasional lover? Rafael replied.
Something like she confided her. I'm not dating anyone right now.
Me neither Raphael 'I said. And your proposition seems to me very well.
But how would that work exactly the deal?
We can see us from time to time to make love, but stay the night in the
house of another.
He said it without thinking, but he seemed to spend the night together was
much more intimate than sex with him.
-go ... It's a fascinating, Melina proposition. So I'll be your lover when you
feel like it and that's it? Are not we going to dinner together or go see a movie
sometime? Only sex without commitments. Is that what you want?
No, he had to admit that he preferred something else. I would have loved
to spend the night in his arms and wake up next to her. But did not want her
parents to know. He knew he would feel very disappointed and would try to
convince her to let him before the end of everything. Because they also have very
clear that this could not have a future.
Yes, that's exactly what I want, 'he said with certainty.
'And any of us may terminate the agreement at any time? Without
reproach of any kind?
We're adults. We can choose what kind of relationship we have.
But he knew he was not being sincere. Without knowing how or when it
had happened, she was falling for him. Again.
Although something told him that he had never stopped loving him.

Rafael was silent for some time.

He was anxious to hear his answer, he could not wait.
-of I agree, he said at last.
A Melina they wanted to lie to mourn. It was what he wanted to hear. But
on the other hand, knew it was not enough.
Have you been happy, Rafael? 'she asked.
-Yup.
'Has life treated well?
Better than I expected, 'said Rafael.
And even then, decided to return to Red Rock ...
'I have done very well over the years and have made lots of money.
Things do not have to change now that I live here. What I do is I'm good, I risk a
lot and is something we value highly the companies for which they work.
'Do not you have never regretted not having tried to play professional
baseball league?
-of Occasionally.
They rose from the bed. Rafael took her hand and went together to the
bathroom.
They did not talk much. They kissed underwater shower, played with soap
and hands.
When Rafael left an hour later, his body was completely satisfied and
happy, but felt great sorrow in his heart. There was herself an agreement that was a
big risk suggested. It could serve to overcome forever the past or to reopen the
wound.
One way or another, I was willing to try.
Rafael had not even two minutes back at home when someone knocked
the door. He went to open and saw that it was the father of Melina. He did not ask
her to come and waved. Her mother had always called him by his first name, but
Melina's father had never given permission to tutearlo.
I want to leave my daughter alone 'I man said by way of greeting. And
before you say anything, I know you've spent the last two hours at home.
But he also knows that we are working together to help Elliot Anderson,
right?

Jefferson said nothing, he just glare at him.

My daughter had a very bad when you left. Now it seems to have gotten
over it and bears a much better time, no need to again make her suffer.
I could not believe it. Just accuse him of abandoning his daughter. It
seemed incredible that he did not know the truth and entered his head that there
might be many people, including the family of Melina, whom she had not told
them what happened. He had sent the letter he had made official the break, but had
not decided, quite the opposite.
Message received, sir, 'he said then.
I heard that Ann Arbor were a womanizer.
So?
Melina is a good girl, should find a man she married and have their own
family. You will not be able to do if you keep playing with it.
It seemed incredible and I wanted to laugh. That man did not seem too
meet his daughter and thought it would have been a hard blow for him to know the
type of agreement that Melina had to propose. I thought it was she who ruled the
roost and played with him.
As I have said, Mr. Jefferson, I understood the message.
I want you to have very clear that I will be watching closely replied the
man.
Without another word, he turned and walked to his van.
Rafael closed the door, but did not move from where I was. I thought you
did not have to feel guilty, but I could not help it. He tried to convince himself that
he had done nothing wrong, but just realize that Melina's family believed that he
was to blame for the breakup. If she thought so too, did not understand why he had
allowed to enter back into your life. I thought he was the one who had to be more
cautious than her.
After all, this woman had broken her heart once.

Chapter 9
THE restaurant Red was not full when Rafael arrived. But it was Friday
and I knew I would soon turn more people. He had been there for dinner with Ross
Fortune and his cousin, the orthopedic surgeon Jeremy Fortune. Marcos had placed
in a secluded table and told them that Wendy Fortune would be your waitress
tonight.
Hello, cousins greeted -the young as he looked at Ross and Raphael. You
have pint of needing a plate of nachos and a few cold beers. What do you think if I
bring a jug of lager and a source of extra-spicy nachos?
The men looked at each other and smiled.
You've hit the nail Rafael 'I said.
When they were alone, he looked at Jeremy with a big smile.
Congratulations, Jeremy. I heard you're getting married. I see that your
life has changed a lot since we talked two weeks ago.
-Thx. I feel very lucky. Why do not you come one day to dinner and so
Kirsten know? By the way, if you're dating someone, it is also invited, of course.
I'd love to know your fiancee. And, no, I have no partner.
That's not what people say. I read something very different in Internet
Ross' I said.
-How? Rafael asked confusing.
-June Has a column in the local newspaper. It is published on the website
of the same and updated every day
Ross she said trying not to laugh. According to her, you're back with
Melina.
He arrived at that moment Wendy beer for all three.
-Enseguida I bring the nachos, guys he told them the waitress.
Just a rumor Rafael replied when they were alone again. It is true that we
are from time to time, but do not listen to what they tell you.
He Speak of the devil ... 'said Ross.

He looked up and saw that Mark was with Melina and her sister Stephanie
and Quanah to one of the tables. They sat in front of them, but far enough away to
not hear what they said.
Stephanie greeted him with hand and Melina looked where they were.
Gave a slight nod and gave the impression that he was blushing. He wondered if he
was thinking last night. He was unable to stop thinking about what had happened
in the shower.
He thought maybe he was a little ashamed.
'Is that girl Melina famous? asked Jeremy
-. He had not known yet.
The girl blonde is Melina he explained Raphael. The redhead is his sister
Stephanie. The man called Quanah and Melina partner in the therapy center.
He looked away and took another swig of beer.
'Then, you still do not know anything about your father? Rafael asked
Jeremy.
Nothing. For three months without knowing it, but something tells me that
is alive.
-No Reason to believe otherwise commented Ross
-. Police found his car after the accident, but there was no body inside nor
any trace.
Not have appeared more tracks and the police have been given by 'I told
Jeremy desperately overdue. And to complicate things further, we have another
mystery, baby. It appeared mysteriously disappeared the same day as my father
and at the same church. We do not believe there is any connection between the
two, but it's very strange, does not it?
Wendy then returned to the table.
Here you have the -Les nachos said with a big smile
-. Are you ready to take notes or you prefer to wait a little longer?
Rafael did not understand why Marcos was complaining so much.
During the time that were in the restaurant, Wendy was very helpful and
friendly. The response was very good, but without being too pushy.
They used to ask who was there food.

Then they talked of little Anthony. For now, Jeremy and Kirsten were
watching, but were prepared to give it back to her biological parents as give them.
At first we thought Max Kirsten's brother, was his father. His girlfriend,
Courtney, told him it was your child when he left his care. But we found out later it
was a lie. She then changed the story and told Max that true father was a man
named Charlie, and that guy was dangerous, undesirable. That was when the judge
granted temporary custody to us. Soon after, Courtney said she was not the mother
and handed Max a medal which apparently had the baby ...
-What medal? Ross interrupted him. I did not know what medal.
-The Baby was wearing when he was found in a car seat facing the
church. That's what they told us. But this woman has lied so many times ... 'said
Jeremy.
Where's the medal? Ross asked.
-at Home.
I need to see it, 'said the detective.
I do not think it's anything important, but if you want I can call Kirsten
and ask him to bring.
If you do not mind ... Or, if you prefer, you can go home after dinner.
-Don't Worry. Anyway, thought Kirsten drop by later with the baby. 'I'll
call Jeremy said.
Rafael had been listening to the conversation between Ross and Jeremy,
but the issue was too confusing and was distracted. I could not stop thinking about
what had happened the night before.
'I get the impression that June was right-she told Ross then. Or at least you
want to be.
'It's not that. But you know we have a past Rafael replied.
How could I forget? he said his cousin. Be right back.
Melina did not know if would have heard the same rumors. He pulled the
cell phone and sent a text message.
Are you free later?
Seconds later, Melina pulled out his phone bag at him. Then she looked up
at him and nodded his head gently.
What eight at home ?, he wrote then.

Do not delay, she replied.

Kirsten comes from -Les road and then- Jeremy said. I'll go out to not
have to lift car Anthony. Do not eat all the nachos.
As he was left alone at the table, decided to get up and go to greet Melina.
We're celebrating my last day of work at the clinic she explained
Stephanie. Angie returns this weekend honeymoon and returned to his post on
Monday.
'What we celebrate is a great week Quanah- added. The truth is that it has
done a good job replacing his sister.
And I have not reorganized files have changed anything or site Stephanie
interjected. Well, I changed some things on the table in Angie, but just to
embarrass her a little.
So I like. I see you are a good sister Rafael replied smiling.
'Have abandoned? Melina asked.
No, they will come back soon, but I wanted to get close to greet Rafael 'I
said. Apparently, people have started talking about us - he said as he looked at
Melina.
Is not the first person who tells me, 'she said.
His expression made it very clear that she was annoyed or amused
situation.
He has crossed my head call June and demand a correction, but I think
that would only arouse even more interest him 'I said.
Yes, I think it's better not to care opined Melina. And the rumor disappear
soon.
Or not 'said Stephanie with a mischievous smile.
Rafael said goodbye to them to see that Ross and Jeremy returned to the
table. It was a relief to depart, Stephanie seemed to have too curious about what
might have between his sister and him and feared not being able to pretend that
there was nothing.
Wendy came shortly after the dinner.
You -Necesitis something else? -Les asked.
No, thanks, 'said Rafael.

As he turned away from them, exchanged dishes laughs. The waitress was
not successful with any, but I knew they were going to leave a good tip. Although
not the best waitress in the world, was very friendly and kind.
Jeremy gave a small plastic bag to Ross. It contained a gold medal and
chain. The detective watched carefully. He pulled it out after bag to study better.
-Pasa Something? Rafael asked when he did not say anything.
-I Do not know. There's something about this medal that was familiar, but
I do not know why. If I had the baby, it must be important. Could you keep her a
few days, Jeremy?
Sure. We've tried Kristen and I find out where it came medal but got
nothing.
I hope you have better luck, Ross. Was there no clue small chair?
No, it is a very popular brand that is sold in almost every country
hypermarkets.
Can I see the medal? 'I asked Raphael. Do you know if gold? If so, you
can take it to a jeweler to have the values and give you more information.
Maybe it's not a bad idea to Jeremy replied.
We tried to find a similar online, but we have not reached any
conclusions.
'I have some contacts that could help me find out more about this medal.
The image displayed on it sounds like something, I think I've seen, I do not
remember where.
Ross kept the gem and changed the subject.
They talked about how Red Rock had changed over the years. Ross and
Jeremy were older than him, but had known since childhood. The Fortune formed
one of the most famous families in the village.
They were finishing dinner when Marcos approached the table. He wanted
to know how she was the food and if they liked the service. As the three gentlemen
who were, none mentioned that Wendy had been wrong to serve the dishes.
Ross and Jeremy were when they finished dinner.
Across the restaurant, I saw that Quanah had also gone, leaving alone the
two sisters. He got up with the intention to accompany them, but then came
another girl who sat with them. He saw that Stephanie was being presented to
Melina.

I did not know what to do, were only seven and had to wait an hour before
going home from Melina. He did not want to return to his, but it was nice to be
there alone.
I was deciding what he would do when Marcos again approached his
table. He saw that his father was behind.
I know you've already eaten he said Luis Mendoza. Would you mind me
company while I eat dinner?
Not at all, Dad. I'm meeting someone in an hour, but I have plenty of time.
A couple of minutes later, Beau Bandero entered the restaurant. He was
surprised to see it was in the company of June Adams. It was two people around
Red Rock's least wanted to have to do at the time. But under the circumstances, he
knew that he must be kind to them.
Good -Les nights Rafael said as they passed him.
Where will you sit? Beau asked Mark.
His brother said the corner table and coach nodded.
All right, now let. Needless to join us replied as he looked at his father.
How are you?
The Beau Bandero who addressed with education and admiration for his
father seemed another person, much more respectful and friendly. He seemed to be
really happy to see his father, whom he greeted with a big smile.
I've heard about your separation. I'm sorry he said
I've heard about your separation. I'm sorry she said Rafael to June softly.
'It was one surprise she replied with a shrug.
No, but I guess it will be very hard. Especially for the kids he commented
as he looked sideways at Beau. Are you dating him?
-What am interviewing for the paper, as you suggested. He invited me to
dinner and I accepted. Nothing more.
Sure the details of what happens during that dinner, as they affect you, do
not appear on your gossip column Rafael 'I said sarcastically.
Are you angry, Rafael?
I'm somewhat annoying. I value my privacy and I care about the truth
above all.

'I limit myself to write what I see. And if you have not seen it myself, I
make sure to compare the information they give me my sources.
Are we going to the table? Beau asked to June at the time.
They said goodbye and went to the table that Marcos had told them.
Rafael looked up from his seat at Melina and saw that she had been
watching the odd couple who had just arrived to the restaurant.
Looks like Beau and you are good friends then 'I said to her father little
irritated.
Beau had always admired Luis Mendoza and during his adolescence was
to talk to him occasionally for advice. Rafael had always felt somewhat betrayed
when her father helped that had always been his rival.
So is. But you have no reason to be jealous Luis' I said.
Jealous? I'm not ... replied quickly. Well, I guess I'm a little jealous itself.
You've always been more patient with him than me.
It was my responsibility to educate you became a useful man, had to treat
firmly. But Beau needed more of a role model, a father. As was the foreman of the
ranch of his family, he was always at hand.
I do not know why they did not go to his own father.
'I told you that it has received too fond of him. He always tried hard. Do
not you remember how he shouted from the stands during games? Embarrassed
him in front of everyone.
Rafael was silent at the comment from his father.
You think that's why so strict now does not allow parents to be present
during training?
-of Course. And if you could, would also prohibit them from attending
matches. I'm sure Luis said after tasting beer that Wendy had llevarle-. For you it
may be difficult to understand. It was very clear that, were to choose baseball or
law, going to succeed in any of the two fields. But Beau had only one option, that
sport. His father was not proud of it until the Astros signed him. But that damn
injury ended his career. It must be very hard for him to see you again in Red Rock.
You're a winner and although not brag about it, Beau can not stand it.
The words of his father made him think. It was not like him to speak of
those things.

He always was a difficult person, but I think I understand why it is so

important to him that his teams succeed and win every game. It has to prove
himself, and others, that his career did not end at twenty years and still has a lot to
do 'said Raphael. And how are you, Dad? Just I have seen in recent days.
I think it has been good to me Melina advice. I slept better since I told him
how I felt he confessed his father. If I accepted the invitation Patsy last night was
because I wanted to see for myself if there was anything between her daughter and
you. I know you're gonna tell me that you are working together, but there is more.
I'm sure. Do not be mirasteis eyes once.
Rafael almost laughed. Realized that they could not hit occurred. People
murmur if eyes looked or did not look at all. It was impossible not to suspect them.
Are not you going to answer? her father asked.
I do not know what to say as she watched Rafael replied Melina. We have
matured and are different people.
We are trying to get along for the sake of Elliot.
I'm glad you raised the chance to work together so we can resume our
friendship. The truth is that we understand.
He could not help thinking what would be doing her a few minutes later,
showing each other how far along.
A ten to eight, took leave of his father and left the restaurant. Melina
something had gone before.
I did not want to leave your car in the parking lot of the restaurant. He
feared that June saw him there and suspicious.
Nor could he leave before the house of Melina. In the end, he decided to
park a little further away and walk to your home.
Melina greeted him with a black lace nightgown. It was long, but had a
pronounced and very tempting cleavage.
Saw that he had painted red nails of the feet.
He looked up and his attitude seemed so sexy as little clothing she wore.
But a few hours later, when on his way to his car, he realized that he felt
some dissatisfaction.
Over the next week, they had several encounters of the same type and
always ended with the same feeling.

Whenever they talked and laughed less. They made love passionately, but
had little else.
When finished, he dressed quickly and took leave of her. I missed other
things, the conversations always had. They could talk about everything, anything.
We would have loved to stay overnight once and breakfast the next day with her.
Each encounter left him a little more desolate than the last. Since returning
to Red Rock, had struck him how patient Melina was with other people. But I had
noticed that he never relaxed, never allowed to stay by his side and turned away if
he just wanted to hold her.
He did not like the situation and each time was clear that all end while
baseball league.
Chapter 10
H AS 'I lost weight Melina Angie said a week later when he saw her enter
the clinic.
No, it's not true, 'she said. Angie looked at her with a frown.
Well, maybe a kilo. Two at most Melina recognized. I've been busy. In addition to the patients I see here, I
have training with Elliot almost every afternoon. I do not stop.
'And you're too busy to stop and eat?
Do not be overstated. Sure I eat. Moreover, there comes bad to lose some
weight.
You're perfect, Melina. Especially since you started swimming. It's
Rafael, right?
Why do you say that? asked a little nervous.
'Women tend to lose weight to please a man or because of any. Well, I
guess there are other reasons, like trying to forgive you wedding dress Angie 'I said
as he raised his arms and turned on itself.
Her sister had lost more than seven kilos before the wedding. He was still
tanned after the honeymoon and I had never seen so beautiful. But I thought it was
because he was very happy.

Not her bones about it, Angie. If I'm thinner is because I work a lot.
Nothing he said firmly as he went to his office.
He closed the door, not wanting to talk about it.
It was hard to admit, but his sister was right.
Rafael was the culprit. Was being very difficult to maintain the agreement
that had been reached and treated at the same time his heart was kept intact.
She would have loved to sleep hugging him after making love, having
long conversations and share every moment of the day, but Rafael had made it
clear that only cared sex.
Every time he went home, the same scene was repeated. They made love
passionately, almost desperately, like a farewell. Then they showered together and
returned to be swayed by passion, the second time with more tenderness and less
haste.
But as ended, Rafael rested a few minutes with your eyes closed. Then he
got up and dressed.
I used to go home every night at the same hour.
When she was alone again, she was devastated. It gave the impression that
Rafael was satisfied with the situation and wanted nothing more.
He sat at his desk with sight loss in the box his mother had painted and
given away as he opened the clinic.
He then remembered that she had been the first to suggest the type of
relationship they had, but did not understand why Rafael had not even tried to
change its rules.
They spent the afternoon together, trying to Elliot progressed slowly.
Then they looked at night at home. Although he had tried had failed to keep his
heart apart and had fallen in love with him. Especially after seeing how patient
who was with child.
His presence in training was becoming less important. Rafael had won the
trust of Elliot and had learned to distract him when little was frustrated.
There were only nine days to the first league game. And the day before
they were to have the last training with Beau. It would then when the coach decide
whether Elliot play or not.
If the child was left off the team, he was convinced that Rafael would cost
much more than your own Elliot overcome.

He thought about what they could do if Beau did not admit the child.
Rafael hoped would take legal action to prevent it. It hurt to think about
what it would feel cheated if Elliot, after struggling therefore denied him what he
wanted. They had not told him that was a possibility and realized that they needed
to talk to him to try to prepare it.
But I could not think about it anymore. He had already served four
patients that day and had not yet updated their reports. It opened on your computer
file John. He had suffered a stroke three months before and had much to recover.
That morning, he had taught to prepare scrambled eggs and had played bowling
together using the Wii console. As was sixty-two years and wanted to recover
enough to drive again. It had been an electrician and did not want to retire so soon.
Had also been with Elliot this morning. I visited him at his school, where
he also was another companion, Cindi.
The last patient of the day was sweet Deenie.
The old woman of eighty lived alone, had no family in the area and had
just put a hip prosthesis. It was very tenacious and never complained. Melina had
rearranged her furniture in your house to adapt to their new situation. His recovery
was very slow and worried.
He was startled by a knock at the door. Angie opened without waiting for
answer and looked out.
I I'm going home, 'he said. And Rafael is here. It has come to see added
with a wink.
Until tomorrow, Angie replied her. Tell happens, please.
He checked his watch and saw that there were only twenty minutes to the
start of training. He finished filling out the reports while waiting to enter Rafael.
She did not rise to greet him when she saw him. Their relationship was awkward
and did not quite know how to behave when I saw him on the street. Were lovers
in secret and it was hard to see him and hug him as just a friend.
Hi-what greeted her. Sit down, please.
It's just a minute. I wanted to let you know that I can not spend tonight.
Do not know if I would have the chance to tell you during training and I preferred
to come.
Melina waited for him to explain why he could not go, but Rafael did not.
Very well - she epuso r.
Thank You

p or

I comentrmelo.

Well, see you later.

He turned and left the room without another word.
Melina did not move until she heard the front door of the clinic closing
behind him. He did not understand why he had gone to tell her in person, when he
could have called or sent a text message. He also was surprised that he had not
explained why it would not go.
It crossed my mind that might have plans with another woman, but it was
Tuesday and it seemed improbable.
He finished his work, he closed the center and went to the sports center.
On the way there, he was getting angry more and more. It bothered her to sleep
with her, but did not have the confidence to tell him why he would not be able to
go home that night.
But he realized that Rafael was not the only one who did not tell
everything. She had not told her how he felt. To make matters worse, it was what
had gotten into this very complicated situation.
He missed the years in high school, when love was new, fun and simple.
When he got to where he trained were greeted Elliot hand. Then he sat on
the bench as he did almost every evening. He saw that the sky was overcast and the
air smelled of rain.
A few minutes later, he saw Adams June. It was across the field. He wore
a black bag that seemed too big for a handbag. He thought it would be his camera
and I was there as a journalist.
It did not take long to get to where she was.
Hello, Melina. Do you mind if I leave here my bag while I make some
photos of children?
Elliot did not like to send him pictures, but declined to explain. Do not
want to wake your interest and would like to emphasize their history in the report.
After all, he was there to be part of a team, not that it differed from others.
-June, Do you I can ask a favor? Why do not you shoot another computer?
He believed that although he was taking pictures of other children, Elliot
could get very nervous if I thought it was he who pointed the lens.
But I want to make a team photo Beau. The article is about it.
-has Another group of children who trains somewhat later.

'I have so long. I have to go home and look after children 'I said as June
camera neck was hung. Also, why do not you want me to?
Beau gave me permission to come today.
Melina looked at the coach with a frown. No one had thought to tell Beau
better than to take pictures of the team and Elliot could react badly if anyone tried
to photograph it.
He crossed his mind to say something to Elliot him away from the group,
but did not know how he would take it.
He had not yet had any tantrum in front of peers and hoped it would not
happen.
Could you wait a moment, please? 'I asked June.
He ran to where he was Rafael and explained the situation.
All right, I'll talk to her. You stay with Elliot, please.
Where are you going? Elliot asked when her personal trainer turned away.
-has To talk to the lady who is on the bench. It will return soon. Keep
playing, Elliot. Nothing happens.
But I need it. I can not catch these balls so low without it.
He noticed that his voice was beginning to fill with anxiety and looked
terrified eyes.
I'll be by your side, I promise.
But I need to Rafael Mendoza.
In other circumstances, he would have left the group to talk to him, but
did not want other children to realize what was happening. He knew that many
mocked him in school, but it was very important that their teammates accepted.
He'll be back soon. The coach Greg is also here with you, Elliot. Keep
practicing.
I knew Rafael and the child had connected very well during these last
weeks, but so far not realized the dependence seemed to Elliot.
I'm here with you and Rafael insisted again soon.
He saw that there was going to get convince and tried another tactic.
What do you think if we go there together? - I whisper in her ear. We will
do so very slowly, without running.

Rafael is sure before we reach us.

He saw began to look at them. The other kids thought that Elliot had never
played baseball and therefore needed more help, but were very surprised to see that
she had approached and was separated from the group.
They were very slowly there. Elliot called Rafael when they were almost
reaching the bench.
Hey, kid. What's up?
-I Need you.
Well here I am, 'I said Raphael. So what you gonna do? he added as he
stared a moment to June.
The woman nodded.
Just then, it started to rain hard.
-Todos The bench! Beau cried.
As they were next, Rafael, June, Elliot and Melina were the first to take
shelter under the metal structure. It seemed that the other children looked curiously
at his companion. Some were laughing.
He decided to talk to the parents of Elliot about the possibility of
informing the other children. It was hard to decide what was best explain small that
Elliot had a syndrome that distinguished him from others and risk being stared
curiously or not saying anything and run the risk of being laughed at him and
diverge from the group .
While waiting out the storm, Beau was explaining to them some tactics to
children. Elliot was nervous and continually rocked her body.
Gradually, was reassuring and stopped moving.
Sorry to have walked away from the group during training Elliot said
suddenly.
Both her parents as she had tried to both her parents as she had tried to
explain how important it was to apologize and understand that'd hurt someone else.
But it was hard for him to realize these details. So he surprised both words out of
his mouth.
Le Beau pleased to see that not took the opportunity to scold him.
Thank you, Elliot. We accept your apology. Right, guys?
All nodded.

He kept raining and continued stuck there until he finished training. Then
they ran to where his parents were waiting for everyone in the parking lot of the
sports center.
Rafael and she waited under a roof that almost all cars leave.
Elliot 'What has made this afternoon was amazing.
It is very difficult for him to realize that he should apologize. And it has
done so no one has to remind him he said to Rafael.
He saw that he remained silent.
He asked what I did. I whispered it in his ear. Do you think I should not
have done?
Le disillusioned know.
No, nothing happens. But I was so happy thinking ... she murmured. The
fact is that it has done and is well reminded. Thank You.
What is what happened when I went to talk to June?
'I was panicked to see that you were going. Starts to worry a bit much
seems to depend on you, Rafael. I do not know what will happen if you ever have
to miss a workout or any party. Maybe I should get more involved to get used to
also work with me.
He will comment Beau.
'And that June told you? 'she asked then.
I managed to convince her reminding her that she is also a mother. He
assured me that it will not make any photo or comment on the issue until you can
talk to the parents of Elliot Rafael 'I said as I looked up at the sky. It seems that it
will not stop raining. I better go.
Just looked and kept at a distance from it. What hurt him most was seeing
was eager to leave.
Why can not you come to my house tonight? she asked unable to control
his curiosity.
Rafael then looked into his eyes.
I'm meeting Ross Fortune. Why? Will you miss me?
-Yup.
He then closed his eyes for a few seconds.

When he opened his expression was completely different. There was

tenderness in his gaze and desire.
That's what I was hoping to hear whispered Rafael.
Is it that you thought I did not care to see or not see?
Never talked, Melina. It's just sex, nothing more.
It's fantastic, but not enough. I do not know what you think, do not talk.
I thought that was what you wanted, 'she said.
And I thought that was what you wanted you replied Rafael moving closer
to her. Maybe now that we are already seeing a couple of weeks, we should review
the rules of this relationship. We could make some changes, he added. Could you
stop by your house after meeting with Ross?
It felt so relieved few seconds gasped.
-Yup.
And what about if we do something different tonight? Rafael asked
mischievously. What if we just talk?
We can try, 'she said smiling. Rafael laughed. Then they ran to their cars
in the rain.
When he came home, soaked and somewhat later than usual, he realized
that he was starving. But it was not only food I needed.
I wanted something more, much more than Rafael. And I thought I was
going to need something more to say to get satiate your appetite.

Chapter 11
R AFAEL came home just in time to change clothes and dry your hair. I
could not stop thinking about Melina. Their relationship was about to change and
do not know if they were ready. If confined to speak, would have to rely more on
each other and knew that the two had been somewhat reluctant.
They had suffered much in the past and did not want to go through it.
He wondered if Melina would allow him to stay to sleep. It had been a
long time since the last time I slept hugged her and then they were two young men
with big plans for the future, such as getting married and starting a family.
The bell rang her door and saw Ross arrived very punctual to the
appointment.
He invited them in and went to the kitchen. Before getting to dinner, the
detective took the gold medal that he had left Jeremy and then another that was
identical.
Rafael opened his eyes to see both.
-and I said the other day that Jeremy medal and you sounded something he
explained Ross. I know that is going to sound crazy, but I woke up last night after
having a very strange dream in which he appeared to me Ryan Fortune. Do you
remember him?
-not Much. He died a few years ago, right?
Yes, from a brain tumor. He was married to Lily and she, you know, I was
going to marry William Fortune the day he disappeared.
-OK. For now, I'll follow.
I know it had to be a dream, but I swear I thought I saw the spirit of Ryan
at the foot of my bed, Rafael. He said he hoped that medal serve to reunite with his
father Anthony. He said it as if I knew who the baby's father was. It was at that
moment when I remembered where I had seen the medal. I had to dig pretty, but
ended up finding it in a box where I keep many documents and papers of my
family. My brothers and I received medals like this thirty-two years ago. It was a
Christmas gift. I was only ten.
Then do not be a trinket, right?
His story had gotten intrigue.
-Do Not. They are expensive and rare. I remember my mother told us a
very strange story about its origin. None believed it, we knew we loved making up
stories-le Ross said as he opened the pizza box that had led to cenaran-. I took your

advice and took her to a jeweler for the appraised. It is very valuable. You know I
get along great with my mother, I do not usually talk to her. But it was important
and decided to call her to tell me where he had taken. I know that he could not buy,
did not have much money.
I had to insist a lot, but ended up confessing that the had given William
Fortune. Because it takes three months gone, we can not confirm whether it is true
or not, but do not think I lied.
'So the four brothers have those medals yet?
Ross nodded.
I talked to my sister and still has his. I also called Flint, who lives outside
New York. Not sure where to have it, but he said he would come within a week.
As for my brother Cooper, you know it's a nomad. It is impossible to locate. When
we call one of the three, we will tell what happens. Who knows? Maybe he also
appears the ghost of Ryan Fortune asking him to come home.
'So you think the father of Anthony can be one of your brothers? I seem
too coincidental that did not. But it's so strange to leave the baby where did without
a note ... Rafael said while a piece of pizza was served.
Nothing makes sense. At least, for now.
When Flint comes, we give the paternity test.
What all this says Jeremy? Do you think Kirsten and he is prepared to
separate the child and return it to its rightful parents when the time comes?
I suppose it will be very hard, but are determined to find the parents. It's a
mess ... murmured Ross sighed. It is one of the most complicated cases I have had
and the funny thing is that maybe it's my nephew.
They finished eating as they talked of other things. And Ross went soon
after.
Rafael decided to stop by Jeremy's house before going to Melina. He was
anxious to know the baby both had been talking. When he arrived, Kirsten told her
that her fiance was in the hospital. He heard upon entering the child crying loudly.
I've been a lot of time trying to calm him, but I had no luck. I'm tired of
him in my arms and I decided to put it on the seesaw, but he did not like my idea. I
think Jeremy is spoiling too. He always has in arms Kirsten 'I said with some
desperation. Why do not you try? Maybe you have more luck. I've prepared a soup
for dinner and I was getting cold.

Although liked children, did not have much experience with babies.
'I will happy.
You sit down to dinner he said quietly as he walked safely to the seesaw.
The boy did not stop mourn. He was impressed by the power with which
he did despite his young age. He took her in his arms and spun him around the
room.
Anthony cried harder still. He decided to change tactics and place it over
your shoulder, stroking the back of the child.
Gradually, was reassuring. It ceased to mourn and her breathing became
deeper. With his face to her neck, ended up falling asleep. Loved seeing who had
managed to stop mourn.
Kirsten returned to the living room with a bowl of soup on hand. He saw
that she was delighted.
I think he likes male voices. Jeremy also easier to calm me. Many thanks'
I told him. Stay until you return Jeremy hospital, please she added laughing.
But will fall asleep for a while, right?
If you hold it together. But if we put it in the cradle, anything can happen.
Rafael sat in the rocking chair and enjoyed the time. That was how she
had imagined her life with Melina. They had decided to have at least four children.
According to the detailed plan, they would have had two. He was excited
thinking about it. Although it had been so long, I had not forgotten anything.
She gives great 'I Kirsten said as he sat beside her.
He sat there until Jeremy returned.
They talked for a while about the medals and what Ross had told him.
Then he handed the baby to Jeremy carefully so as not to wake up. He immediately
felt empty. It was a very strange feeling.
He said goodbye to two of them and went to the house of Melina, parking
some distance away, as he always did.
He thought that maybe was not the best time to talk to her. These separate
years were very hard and did not know how they would be able to solve their
problems.
Although believed it would be difficult, a part of him was convinced that
it was better to leave things very clear before they complicate even further.

Melina was very nervous that night. They had agreed that Rafael and she
would use this time together to talk. But not sure I was ready for something that
seemed even more intimate and complicated than sex.
He felt that something would change that night. Their relationship could
take a big step forward or opposite. It was possible that was the end of it.
He feared that Rafael was outside his home never to return if they decided
to speak and be honest with each other. When he heard knocking on his door, he
gasped. It was open. His knees trembled.
He gave the impression that it was more serious than other days, it seemed
another man.
She placed her hands on his chest and looked him in the eyes. Without
knowing why he decided it was better to change the initial plan.
I think we should talk later ... he said with suggestive voice.
Rafael did not answer. He just take her in his arms and climb with her to
her bedroom. That night, the passion they shared was full of emotions.
He left her carefully on the bed, leaning over to kiss her. There was no
time to think about what they were doing or to change your mind. He felt how
much he wanted. There was much need in the way we kissed and caressed.
It was amazing. No one had ever managed to arouse much as this man
didnt get to feel much pleasure. He tried even longer time, torturing him until none
of them could stand it anymore. Until Rafael grabbed her hips and straddled him as
he slid inside.
She loved the sounds he made it and how groaned with every movement.
He was very powerful, but also completely surrendered to this man. This time, he
was feeling other things besides the passion and pleasure.
There was also fear and some hope, at least for part of it.
When they finished and slumped over his torso, Melina wondered if they
would make love after that night.
-Would You like to sleep over, Rafael? she asked with some fear.
His reply was that he had dreaded to hear.
Before that, rather speak, as we agreed.
Melina turned away from him and lay down next to him.
You smell like baby, 'she said, stroking his neck.

I've been home for Jeremy and Kirsten before coming Rafael replied as he
covered her hand to stop and not continue acaricindolo-. The baby would not stop
mourn and, for some reason, calmed down when I took her in my arms.
'The same has happened to you with Elliot. It seems to have great
chemistry with you.
Melina, why try to change the subject?
"Because I'm scared," she thought.
I do not know, 'he said.
Rafael got up from the bed, took her hand and pulled. They dressed and
went down the hall.
They each sat beside the couch.
'As to what Elliot said she, I talked to Quanah and also with their parents.
In theory, the child knows who has Asperger syndrome, but do not fully
understand what makes you different from other children. So parents work with
him every problem that arises and do it over and over again. Baseball is crucial for
him. It helps you improve your physical, mental and emotional skill.
Then what will we do? I like to trust me, but I do not need me all the time
at his side.
They're going to talk to him their parents and try to make him understand
how they see other children. We have to remind what the main objective. If not, try
another tactic. It is important not to obsess you, but may already be too late.
As you may have noticed, has memorized the stats of your games in high
school.
Every time I feel more respect for their parents Rafael 'I said.
-The Parents are almost always some heroes that nobody recognizes their
work.
Even those who are only temporarily, as Jeremy and Kirsten. I find it
amazing that they are so lovingly caring for the baby.
Your mother would have done well, 'she said as she looked at him. She
loved caring for others.
As happens to you.
Yes, but I do out of generosity.
-From I'm back, everyone talks about you

he said Raphael. You're the perfect daughter and the most charitable and
kind woman around Red Rock.
She was surprised tone.
I do not know if I should consider it a compliment or an insult.
I suppose that is halfway between both
I suppose that is halfway between both
she confided him. I know what you're going to say. I have no right to
make such comments.
Well, I guess that's the best time to have this conversation now that sexual
attraction has calmed down a bit.
Rafael looked at her with a frown.
-Eso You think? Do not you just be up there with me? he asked her as he
pointed to the ceiling.
'You know what I mean.
I think not. I wish you much as the first day or maybe more. I do not feel
that attraction I feel for you gone unless and that passion has subsided. And I get
the impression that it is not your case.
-go ... I see you are having a serious conversation than I thought, 'she said
worriedly. Yes, I want you more than ever, but I know there are barriers between
the two, Rafael.
I'm ready for the next phase of my life, Melina.
It was something I was not aware when I decided to Red Rock. I thought
it was for my father, but now I want to live here and that life is complete. I have
now realized how empty my life has been in recent years. Only had one goal in
mind, succeed professionally. I liked making money and prestige.
With how busy you are, do not know how you found time to train Elliot.
I've gotten better organized and postpone other less important things.
But why did you do that? 'she asked then.
Rafael was silent for a few seconds before answering.
Because you asked me to. Long time not working on something just
because, without getting paid for doing so.

Though volunteer work, you get much in return, right? I too like to help
people. If no care of my grandmother when I had the stroke, never have discovered
how much I like this kind of work and how well it gives me.
Yes, I know that Rafael replied coldly. Melina realized they had reached
the most delicate point in the conversation, the decision had changed their lives
forever.
You were with me when I called to tell me what had happened. I think we
had only three months in Ann Arbor. My parents tried to convince me to wait until
the Christmas holidays, but had to come.
And never came back to college.
She could not do it. You saw yourself how my grandfather would have
been unable to care for his wife. My mother worked and my sisters were too young
she reminded him as he approached a little closer to Rafael to stroke his
arm. I missed you, but I realized I did not miss being in college.
'I enjoyed that experience.
-I Know. And I also enjoyed my years in college when I discovered what
really was what I wanted. It was not easy to take care of my grandmother. It was
tough, physically and emotionally. He also had to deal with my grandfather. He
wore very bad what happened and feared he would die. A year later, when my
grandmother died Rose, was so depressed that we thought would never get over it.
'I thought that is now fairly well' I Rafael said.
Yes, but it was not easy to me out of his house.
Sooner or later, will move with my parents and I know that is not going to
be a nice change, 'she said with a smile. You have been very generous offering
your father's house.
It's very hard to see your parents grow old and starting to depend on you,
'Rafael said, stroking her feet gently. I think I finally understand why you took
such a drastic decision and left college to take care of your grandmother.
I think even I understood it then. I just knew I had to help and I thought it
was the only one that was available. I think I had not realized it was not for
becoming a lawyer. But I have not really been aware until a few weeks ago, when I
saw you again in Red Rock and reflected a bit more about what had happened. It
would have been good lawyer. I convinced myself that left him by my

grandparents, but really was not happy. See? Like I said I'm not as kind as people
think.
I'm pretty selfish.
He took a deep breath and prepared to tell him what had not told him ten
years earlier.
It was very hard to be without you and taking care of my grandparents day
and night, but what really destroyed me was you chose that difficult to break me
now.
Rafael stopped playing his feet to hear what he had just said and frowned.
'You're the first person who told me it was I who broke up with you. I
never said anything because it was you who had to live here and want it understood
that everybody had a good opinion of you. But we both know that's not what
happened, maybe the time has come to recognize, if only admit it to me and
nobody else.
Melina saw that he was very angry.
What do you mean? How to not break up with me?
Do you really think I did?
She seemed a ridiculous question.
Of course I do and I have proof.
'Really? Well try Rafael 'I said.
Do not you know what I'm talking about?
If I knew, you would not have asked. You say you have evidence that it
was I who broke up with you.
I want to see.
-very Well. Now again she replied as she rose from the couch.
It was time.
Chapter 12
R AFAEL also rose from the couch, but did not know what to do when
Melina ran upstairs. He went to the kitchen and poured himself a glass of water.

When he suggested to spend an evening chatting, without the distraction

of sex, she had not expected the conversation to take them back to the past. It was
too painful.
But he realized that it was something that would have to talk sooner or
later. In addition, the settlement that had come to be lovers and nothing more was
not working. It was not enough. It was time to clarify things.
Melina went downstairs and went straight to the kitchen. He saw wearing
a frame in hand. But inside there was a photo or a painting, but a handwritten note.
It was not difficult to recognize. It was the letter he had sent him.
Melina, I find no other way to get in contact with it. I have been very
patient. You have made important decisions without me and that leaves everything
clear. I give up, I can not anymore.
You have made your choice and hope you have luck, Rafael.
He remembered that letter. He revived emotions at that moment it felt to
write.
He was angry and felt betrayed.
-La Enmarcaste? Enmarcaste my letter?
So is Melina 'I said firmly as she crossed her arms.
He seemed proud of what he had done.
Now I see I was wrong. It was not your silence then he gave me the key.
You've saved and framed this note is more eloquent than anything else you can tell
me 'I Rafael said as he returned the frame.
He went to the door without looking back.
'That, again leave. But this time, in person, not by letter Melina replied
angrily as he walked toward him.
He turned and tried to control his anger. He could not believe he'd been
able to do something.
As this chart shows, at least I tried. It is much more than we can say for
you. At least you could have returned my calls him 'I said.
Melina looked as if unsure what he was talking about.
'What calls? When?
Come on, Melina. At least be honest. I've been calling for weeks.
Just a couple of times.

Rafael could not believe that dared to deny it. He prided himself on being
a man of integrity. Never lied.
No, there were many more. Why would I lie?
So you had no mobile phone, but I left many messages. He spoke with
your grandfather and you never returned my calls. I did not know how you were, or
how your grandmother was not even thinking back to college. Nothing. I did not
have any information.
Melina shook his head.
No, can not be. If you had called, my grandfather would have told me. I
only remember two calls.
Not true. I called many times. In the end, I gave up and sent you this
letter. In response, all I received was the ring he had given you put in an envelope.
I was too hurt Melina 'I said with emotion in his voice.
'And you think I was not? I spent fatal.
They stared in silence.
Well, I think that this shows that were not compatible Melina murmured
then. Sooner or later, it would have ended.
-A Thee was easier, Melina, but I did not imagine my future without you.
You were everything I wanted.
'And you think I did not feel the same? I went to study in Michigan by
you. He would have preferred not to move, but I found it even harder to be without
you, so I went with you.
It was a lump in the throat to hear what he was telling her.
Why did not you tell me all this before? Why?
Melina raised his hands in the air, expressing the gesture that she did not
know either.
He was very young and in love. You convinced me that it would be an
adventure and it was, but that place was not for me. In addition, there would have
been a good lawyer.
Then you took advantage of the first opportunity arose you to come home
without telling me how you felt. Maybe we could have solved together -Tena
eighteen! she exclaimed. Until then, he had led a very sheltered life. I guess I was
afraid. You you were having you well in college. I do not. I felt that depended on
you for everything and more and more. Even came to tell me.

He looked thoughtful for a moment and remembered talking to her about

this dependence.
But never knew it was that bad.
I guess I was not aware. But 'I was always worried Melina said. You're
right, can he used what happened to my grandmother as an excuse to go home. But
I loved and missed you.
You will not be overlooked that had used the past tense. Without knowing
why, it hurt to hear it.
'Are you saying you were too immature?
-of Course. Since you're back, I've been thinking a lot and now I
understand better what happened.
Everything you just said is new to me, had not noticed.
Rafael saw desperation in his eyes, as if it were very important to her to
understand her. Melina knew he needed to hold her, but did not want to.
He looked again at the letter he had framed and felt much pain. It seemed
incredible that would have been able to do something.
I need time to think about all this he told her
-. I'll see during training.
He noted that Melina was closed in itself. His gaze was no longer
pleading, quite the contrary.
Yes, as you like, 'said Melina with little interest.
Rafael had to go, could not go there. He left without another word. It had
cooled, but it felt good to feel the cold air on his face. I was too nervous and
irritated to go home. He drove to the Red restaurant.
I did not know what time was his brother that week, but expect to find
there.
He went straight to the bar.
-Today There is little 'I told Wendy people see him.
Marcos is now in the kitchen, but he goes. Want to eat something?
Did not have much appetite, but decided to order something to drink with
the drink.
-Some nachos with chicken, please.

I bring you -Enseguida.

Marcos then went to the kitchen and saw Wendy looked over his shoulder
and he dedicated a smile.
-When going to admit that girl you like? Rafael asked his brother as they
were alone.
When you admit you still have feelings for Melina.
Rafael was silent for a few seconds before answering.
Then you better start thinking about what restaurant you're going to wear
for your first date.
Marcos said nothing, but looked intently into his eyes.
What we do with women, Marcos? I do not understand.
What's the matter?
I'd rather not give too many details, why do not you just console myself
with some platitudes and generalities?
'You can not live with them or without them.
'That is not helping me too protested Rafael.
Then tell me what's wrong so you can help.
Wendy arrived at that moment with nachos was ordered.
-what's The matter? Having problems with women, Rafael? the waitress
asked kindly.
Something like that, 'said Rafael inadvertently explain nothing.
When he walked away, Mark stood watching.
Before you came to the restaurant, had been discussing Wendy and me.
Do not accept any of my reviews. He says that everyone gives very good tips, so
it's impossible to convince her that is not perfect.
But if no one has complained, why does it bother you so much?
I do not know, but true. I can not help it.
His brother tried to convince him to tell him what was wrong, but Rafael
preferred not to. I felt I had learned many things about Melina tonight.
They stood chatting a while and then went home.
Melina and he had two very different versions of what had happened and
was not sure which one was right. Perhaps none.

I thought perhaps he had time to forget the past and move on.
Melina slept badly that night. In the morning, the phone rang as he rose
and knew right away who it was.
'I've barely slept Rafael said when he answered.
-me Neither.
Few seconds they were silent.
I have to keep their distance with you. I want to move on with my life then
she told him. And I believe that this relationship just sex and nothing more is not
helping me get it.
His words broke her heart to Melina.
'I will understand she lied. Well, we shall see later in training.
Rafael said nothing more.
He Bye bye to her.
-Goodbye.
Melina whispered 'I love when he heard that Rafael had hung up the
phone. And I always will.
Rafael was his first and only love. She loved him and knew that would
never change. She also wanted more than a sporadic and purely sexual
relationship.
Do not settle for less thought, but did not know how I would be able to
recover the man.

Chapter 13
W HEN Melina arrived that morning at the home of his grandfather, he
said he wanted to drive his truck and she could not refuse. He had tied a rope to a
stool he used to jump on the seat.
Then he pulled the rope to get him into the back of the vehicle when he
was sitting behind the wheel.
It seemed a very imaginative solution and told.
What is the matter with you this morning, Melina? asked his grandfather a
little later. You are quieter than usual. Something tells me you're so because of a
guy.
'Maybe I'm in a bad mood because I do not have any guy she replied
laughing.
-Pudiera Be, but I think not, 'said his grandfather.
Had long without driving my van. He had missed.
You think you're prepared for the driving test?
What choice do I have? I have two days and I have to get approved. I do
not want to rely on others to carry me to the supermarket or anywhere else.
Everything would be much easier you is you went to live with my parents.
'I can not do that to his grandfather he said as he looked askance. I know
that I have given them, but only carry one year without their daughters at home.
This is their second honeymoon.
His words made reflect Melina, and realized he was right.
They arrived shortly after the town center. There was more traffic and had
to make decisions quickly. Melina saw was handled much better with the van with
his car.
Want to go to San Antonio? Do not come too bad practice on the highway.
No, I know my limits and I think it should lead only Red Rock.
That morning seemed entirely. It was much quieter and showed very
reasonable.
His grandfather got into the car park of a supermarket.
I need to buy some things. Is that okay?
-You Can use your time with me as you like, Grandpa.

He parked near the door and turned off the engine.

'Have you gone Rafael to you? 'she asked before they left the van.
No, why should I?
Overnight, something quieter, had realized that Rafael had no reason to lie
and that if he said he had called many times, must be true.
Want to talk about something with me? asked his grandfather.
When I came back from college to live with grandma and you, Rafael
called me? Did he leave messages for me?
Of course I do. Why do you ask? I remember told you.
'But he did more than once or twice? 'she asked.
His grandfather then looked away.
Maybe it once more, but I thought you said you did not want to talk to
him.
Yes, but only while I adapted to my new life, not the whole time I was at
home.
Rafael knew he would try to convince her to return to college and did not
want to have to argue with him.
How would I know? she defended her grandfather.
He then looked into his eyes.
-OK. I confess I do not want you to go. I needed to take care of Rose. I
was afraid you back to college and Rafael as could. I guess it was not right what I
did.
'Just you guess? she repeated angrily.
He recalled the letter he had framed and felt terrible. He regretted not
having trusted Rafael. I knew things could have happened very differently if he
had spoken to him and had explained what was happening.
'Have you discussed Rafael and you because of me? asked his grandfather.
I'll go talk to him.
-Do Not. Do not, please, 'he asked her. This is between Rafael and me.
What his grandfather had done had not helped things turn better, but knew
she had much of the blame.

Very well, I will not he promised his grandfather.

They spent the rest of the time shopping at the supermarket and practicing
a bit more with the van. Then they went to the house of his grandfather.
You're a good girl, 'he said before leaving
-. Thanks for helping.
'My pleasure,' said her grandfather as he gave a kiss.
Melina returned to work thinking about what he had discovered. Until
then, he had not been aware of why they had distanced both Rafael and she did not
know what to do with that information. Even if they had stayed together, it was
possible that they had ended up separated, as had happened to June and Wade.
They began dating too soon and life had changed enough to follow different paths.
That afternoon, Rafael received Elliot in the parking lot of the sports
center as he did every time they had training.
Hello, Rafael Mendoza! the child she greeted him as he left the car.
-Please Tell Melina we've already talked to him
he said Debbie Anderson from the car. We have to keep reminding part of
the team and have him, okay?
Understood, do not worry 'said Raphael.
Hello, boy! he added looking at Elliot. Are you ready?
Yes, we will. We have to practice.
Wait, Elliot. Look, there's Melina. We always expect before you start, do
not you remember?
I did not know how things were going between the two that day.
It hurt that Melina had not believed him when he said he had called on
many occasions his grandparents. I always thought they were very honest with
each other, but just discovered that Melina had concealed many things, like the fact
that he was not happy in college. He did not understand why he had not dared to
tell.
But still wanted, he had been since fourteen. He could control his life, but
his feelings for her. He tried to convince himself that their relationship could only
be physical, nothing more, and that would eventually overcome if he stayed away
from it. Something that, for the moment, it was not going to do. At least until the
end of the baseball season.

Hi, guys -Les said Melina to reach him.

His tone was cheerful, but saw that he avoided meeting his eyes.
-let's Play! Elliot exclaimed. Can I go alone to the field?
Yes, of course. We will follow closely.
As you could see at all times while they were over there, it seemed safe to
leave to run ahead of them.
They walked in silence for a while. Melina had nothing to say.
If you want to run with it, go ahead.
Rafael sighed in relief and ran up to the child. There were only two
workouts before the first game of the season. Realized he had to concentrate on
Elliot and nothing was given.
When they came to where the team, Beau was already talking to children.
-Problemas? whispered the coach shortly after.
He decided not to react in any way. I knew it was a provocation. Beau
must have realized that there was some tension between Melina and him.
We need to talk to Elliot 'I then said Coach. Do not think I'm ready to play
next week.
Rafael-what will be replied firmly. You need a good hitter like him. It is
the best.
Yes, but will also have to play the position of defense.
-HA Worked hard, Beau. Give it a try.
I need to win. You already know.
-Also Need a little heart. For Elliot, play and be a victory.
Beau crossed her arms and looked at the boys.
Not been able to fit in the team.
-I Know. It is very difficult for him to relate to others, but it has improved
a lot. And I'm sure it will continue to advance.
Beau 'I said' We'll see. By the way, it was an accident. I did not give
purpose to the ball. It was because of the injury. I did not want to admit that limits
me to play even at this level.
I knew that confession would have cost a lot of work, but it cost Rafael
show understanding for what might happen to this man.

-Yup? For better not return to blame one of these children he replied as he
menacingly approached the Coach. If you do not stop to play Elliot, see you in
court because I'm going to complain. And even if she does not win the case, I do
not think you have that kind of suits so negative publicity.
Not felt better after threatening. He had always been proud of its ability to
keep a cool head. Everything had gone wrong in these last twenty-four hours and
did not know how to fix it.
Sideways, looked at Melina. She sat on the bench, as every evening,
reminding at the time the ease with which this woman had upended his life.
He decided he had to do something about it.
Melina was in no mood to observe the training. He just waited sitting on
the bench as he hit the ground with his slippers.
Looks like you are not very happy today commented someone on your
side.
He looked up and saw that it was June, who sat beside her on the bench.
Melina last thing he needed was to give more information to the woman and to
continue talking about two of them in his gossip column.
Only'm a little boring. Prefer to play.
June looked at her with a look of surprise.
Yes, I know it was not very athletic in high school.
But I've been practicing a bit with Elliot and do not give me bad.
'That really would be the news of the year June' I said with a big smile.
Very funny Melina replied sarcastically. Have you come to interview
Beau?
No, but I'm working on the article. My editor has decided to do a special
on baseball in Red Rock.
Did you know that there are four children with Asperger playing in
different baseball teams?
Melina already knew. Two of these children were patients of Quanah, but
were not in the team of Beau and had more experience playing baseball Elliot.
I wanted to talk about it in the newspaper, but all parents have refused.
And I understand, do not want their kids stand out even more, but I thought it
would be OK to talk about you and your work. This could include some
information about autism and Asperger syndrome.

Well, you'd better talked to Quanah. That's his specialty. I usually work
with people who have suffered a stroke or an accident.
I also try to elderly people living alone so they can do better and more
independently.
That would be a great topic for another article.
Sounds good, I'll comment on my editor.
A good time were silent, watching the training.
Rafael was angry with me because he had published on the Internet you
were back together June- 'I said suddenly. But you have not told me anything.
Her sister Stephanie was the first to mention it, but not alone. He decided
he was not going to bite you just extend a journalist.
'We're not together,' said Melina. We see from time to time by Elliot,
that's all.
I know, you're both spending a lot of time in these workouts. I heard that
this week has not gone to his office. I hope your business is not being resenting.
Do not know what he was talking about, but decided not to comment on
that.
Well, it's nice to be your own boss and to take some time off.
But really, that does not matter. Although the company is yours, provided
you work for someone.
Melina realized he was right. I could not contradict him.
'I've said what Rafael because I wanted to make sure I was not with
anyone. I must confess that interests me a lot.
Melina gasped at that.
'Really? I thought you liked Beau.
No, Beau just give me problems. Rafael, however, knows what he wants
and I saw that likes children. I have two children and is something I should
consider.
But would not you rather take a while before you start dating someone?
You just separate you.
Well, I'm not looking for anything serious, just someone to date.

Melina knew that Rafael was not the right person. He was determined to
settle down, get married and start her own family, but it was not his business and
thought he had no right to meddle in your life.
He was a man and could take good care of yourself.
He looked around, saw that he was saying something to the child Elliot
and nodded. He was engaging much more than I had expected and, during the two
months that would last baseball season, were not going to be forced to be.
But he wanted and he wanted not bear to go out with June or any other
woman. He realized he could not give it occurred. Just know what had separated
ten years earlier. They had changed, but there was something between them and
thought that this time could be much better.
She watched as he ran beside Elliot, encouraging him to continue
improving. I thought someday become a great father.
He decided that maybe it was a good idea to change tactics and instead of
avoiding it, spend more time with him and he had to see it all the time. It could
also treat it as if nothing had happened between them and become their best friend.
That would only confuse you even more.
He glanced at June. He would have jurisdiction and did not care. Realized
he needed a challenge like that in his life he realized. Before you give up on him,
he was determined to try one last time.
His decision made him feel much better. He had already lost once and
believed to be ready to assume if your plan was not, but she would not do it
without a fight.
Melina was determined to win.
Chapter 14
CI NCO days later, Melina and her mother were cutting slices of tomato
and onion for his father preparing burgers on the barbecue. It was the last training
Elliot in the garden of her parents and what they were celebrating with all those
who had been helping the child during recent weeks.
It had been thought of Rafael, Elliot wanted to relax a bit and it passed
well.
The next day, during the last training, Beau was to decide whether the
child could play or not.

You look very happy 'I Patsy said.

-What I am, 'said her mother.
He wore a few days and not stop smiling and Rafael was increasingly
confused. He loved to see it.
Elliot has overcome the workouts and grandfather has passed the driving
license. Everything is going well at work and we have many patients. I can not
complain.
'You have not said anything about Rafael. Do not have it nothing to do
with this happiness?
-I Do not know. It is too early to say.
Patsy looked at her curiously.
It's the first time I do not deny it.
I suppose there is still hope.
What do you mean? Do they want to pass something that has not
happened yet?
So is.
But did not you already done too much damage?
'Things are different now, Mom. The truth is that for me there is no other.
Of course I do, honey. Surely find someone better.
But Rafael is the love of my life. It always has been and always will be.
'And what does he know? Do you feel the same as you?
Yes, if you have not already admitted Melina said.
But do not worry, this time I will not be patient.
I'm willing to put all eggs in one basket. It's now or never.
Expected to have achieved more during those days but Rafael had been
traveling this weekend and had failed to carry out his plan. He had even crossed his
mind the absurd idea that was gone with June and had been a journalist found relief
at the supermarket.
Are you going after him? asked her horrified mother.
I do not know why it bothers you so much, you did the same with dad.
The circumstances are different, but the goal is the same, Mom. I want to marry
him and raise a family 'I confessed.

Every time I passed by the building Crockett, where they had dreamed of
having his office and his apartment felt stronger in his determination. I wanted to
spend with him the rest of his life.
They had been separated ten years and the two had changed, but still had
the same values then. They worked hard and cared about others.
They both wanted to start a family.
While still slicing tomatoes, she heard her mother sighed. He squinted.
How I can help you? she asked Patsy then.
Melina smiled and hugged her warmly.
-Try To control my dad when I see flirting shamelessly with Rafael.
'How well! What job so easy you gave me! cried his mother with irony.
Melina laughed.
-Las Burgers are ready! he shouted at the time his father from the garden.
Very well, tell everyone to get ready for dinner, 'said Patsy.
Had gathered in total a dozen people.
Together, they put a couple of tables in the garden and set the table. It was
the entire family of Melina, that of Rafael and Elliot. Mrs. Anderson had cupcakes
decorated as if they were baseballs.
It was still a very relaxed dinner, full of laughter and good conversation.
Melina prepared a burger and carried on his plate to the table where he sat Rafael
with his father and brothers. He sat beside her.
'Do not matter, right? he asked when Rafael was already seated.
She felt subtly away to not touch too.
You're on your replied him with some coolness home.
She could not help smiling at how cold it was with her. He was very
determined to try and did not affect him that Rafael was not putting it easy.
Everything is terrific, 'she said while testing the potato salad.
A long time ago-I was not in a barbecue.
I love the food we have in the restaurant, but missed a good homemade
burger -

Marcos said with a grin. How was your trip to Ann Arbor? he asked,
turning to Rafael.
-All Right. It has been quite productive.
A Melina was surprised that I had gone to Michigan and imagined that
these trips were those who had referred June. He wondered if he would have
someone there ...
I'm closing my office in Ann Arbor he explained Raphael. I can travel
when necessary, but almost everything I can do over the phone or Internet. And
now I have also the possibility to speak by teleconference with any client. It's a
great way to save time and money.
As they talked, Melina was understanding what was happening. Before
moving to Red Rock, Rafael had promised three of the companies working in Ann
Arbor would happen one week a month each to update their affairs. During the last
month, I had been so involved in training, he had to postpone that trip to Michigan
too many times.
He was surprised that I had not commented. He had merely to accept the
rules imposed on him Beau, although that is not supposed to carry out their
professional duties such as he had promised to these companies.
Javier, another brother of Rafael, played guitar and sang after dinner. His
grandfather encouraged him to sing old songs from the West that made him
remember his childhood.
He had not moved from his place, was sitting next to Rafael.
His father -Here is also site then 'I said from the other table.
I'm fine, thanks, 'said Melina.
He saw his mother whispered something in his ear to his father and that he
was frowning.
Rafael turned his back as he watched Javier and his grandfather. She
would have loved to surround her waist with arms or supporting her face in his
strong back. But he could not do it and settled close enough so she could feel his
breath on her neck when she spoke.
-Forman An excellent duo, who would say?
Yes, much better than us. They are lucky that you have not given us sing
Rafael replied as he looked over his shoulder.
Melina laughed. It was true, neither sang well.

Some time later, Elliot and his parents goodbye. The rest was gradually.
Melina helped to collect the kitchen and was surprised to see that Rafael was still
there when he finished cleaning everything. He was sitting in a lawn chair beside
his father.
-These Are very nice family reunions,
Right? 'I said to her son Luis. Your mother always organized and miss.
We can keep doing it. I'll make a barbecue at home very soon, 'said
Rafael.
-Thx. You're very good son and very good man 'I said his father.
Rafael lovingly squeezed his father's hand and she felt out of place, as if
interrupting a very intimate moment.
Well, I'd better go. Goodnight 'said Luis Mendoza as he rose.
Melina came to where Rafael and sat at the table. They were alone.
'It was very nice' I told him.
-Yup.
I see you're okay, Melina Rafael 'I said then.
So is she replied. Well, tomorrow we'll know if Elliot can play or not.
I'm not worried 'I Rafael said.
Melina placed his hands on the table, they were very close to those of
Rafael, could almost feel his warmth, almost touching.
You think Beau will allow to play? 'she asked.
-Yup.
I know it is much improved, but still struggling to play the game.
She needs a little more practice, that's all, 'said Rafael while subtly away
from her.
June came to me then he added.
She gasped at that. He was not such a good mood.
They're going to divorce and wanted his lawyer, but I can not. Not my
specialty Raphael 'I said. The conversation I had with it was quite interesting. He
told me you were given permission to invite me out.
Not so. All I did, when he asked me was tell him we were not together.

'Do you think it would date a woman who has just separated? Moreover,
her husband is my friend.
Did not you hear me? I just told you limited myself to ensure that we were
not together. I decided that the best he could do was be honest with her.
Besides, you knew it was not going to be interested in it,
Right?
-The Truth is that no. I do not know what kind of women you like now.
Rafael was silent, did not respond. Then he got up from the chair.
Well, it's late.
Melina came with him at home and picked up her purse. He said goodbye
to his parents and went out. Their cars were the only ones left outside the house.
'I're up to something' I Rafael said.
-Eso You think? 'she said with an innocent smile.
Yeah, do not play dumb. I know you too well.
But she thought it could not be true. Otherwise, as you would have
realized that he had fallen in love with him. Melina felt his life was in the hands of
this man. Like his heart.
Not true. I limit myself to be who I am, nothing more.
Rafael was looking very intently into his eyes.
Then he took leave of her and went to his car.
As he walked away from her, she felt very lonely. But that conversation
had given him a little more hope.
Rafael got into the car very bad mood. He had had a bad week.
For starters, it was decided to maintain the gap with Melina and he was
not proving easy to do. Moreover, Beau had threatened to report him if he let Elliot
play on the computer.
And, to make matters worse, he had to reject the advances of June. He did
not like having to do it when the woman was going through hard swallow a
divorce.
As for his work, he had to travel to Michigan to talk to your customers
and tell them in person would not be as available as had been promised.

But what was more puzzled him was the new attitude of Melina. He
thought he was too happy.
It had been in the past, when dating.
Although it was he who had decided he needed away from her, wanted her
more than ever.
He was very tired and confused, but knew I had to make some important
decisions.
When he got home, he went straight to the bathroom, I needed a shower.
She closed her eyes and leaned against the wall, let it soak hot water. The missed
him.
We were delighted to see that new Melina, full of joy and energy. So was
the young girl who had fallen in love in high school.
Then he remembered how they had been early in college. He had noticed
that something was months in college. He had noticed that something was sad, but
thought that it was costing more adapt to this new life. He had not worried about
trying to figure out what was wrong. He had been too busy with classes and
parties. She had to admit that I had not paid much attention.
That night, he had seen the fun and flirty Melina institute. It was the same
then, but more mature and independent. I thought that was the fundamental change.
In college, Melina had depended too much of it.
During the weeks that lasted his brief and passionate relationship, had not
been able to understand how much had changed Melina. It was the same institute,
but much better in every way. He'd been too overwhelmed by the passion of a
purely sexual relationship to see how wonderful it was.
He got out of the shower and dried with a towel.
He was very tired and lay down on the bed.
Needed to do something that would promote her life forward, was more
than ready to settle down and have a worthwhile goal. He realized he had needed
break with Melina to start again, he realized.
And that what he had done. I thought I needed a new plan of action.
It was simple and very complicated time.

Chapter 16
M ELINA reached the last training earlier than usual. She waited to Rafael
in the car, but the start time came and had not appeared.
Nor was Elliot anywhere.
Somewhat worried, called him on his mobile phone, but jumped the
answering machine. Nervously, got out and ran to the field. I did not understand
where they could be.
He was about to call the parents of Elliot when he saw one of the fields of
sports complex. And I saw that Rafael was a few feet from him.
He was relieved to see them and stopped running. But fear she had felt
quickly turned to anger. Always arrive ten minutes before class started and waited
in the parking lot.
That attitude ended his optimism. Rafael seemed to have no interest in
fixing things with her and he clearly did not care to maintain their friendship.
He went straight to the bench.
To make matters worse, Beau came to say hello to her there. He was too
angry to talk to him, but he would not be forced to do so.
Hello, Melina. I heard that Rafael and you're not together, 'said the coach.
He supposed it would have told June.
I never said we were she replied.
You know that you are the protagonists of a couple of bets on Red Rock?
Melina snapped up at that.
What do you say?
-What Have heard. There is a bet that involves hitting the day that shall
make public your relationship. The other is on the date of your commitment.
Melina was speechless. It seemed incredible that people would have
learned. They were very careful.
'Have you nothing to say, Melina?
It's too absurd to say anything about it.
If so absurd it is, why you reacted as you did when you what I said?
She was furious, but could not take the bait Beau and tell him what I
thought. He was about to decide whether Elliot could play the next day.

-By The way, I'm playing money on both bets. I think the two things will
happen tomorrow. Do not disappoint me, okay?
Without another word, he turned away from her.
He tried to calm down and concentrate on training.
It was the most important of all. She hoped it was good and Elliot will
show the coach that he was ready to play.
Rafael seemed certain that the child could do it, but she was not so clear.
They were in the hands of Beau.
Elliot got hit four times and ran to first base after three pitches. He saw
disliked realize that one of the times I forgot run. Rafael then called him and asked
him a few hand gestures. The boy stood up and raised his head, looked much
quieter. His companions came up and got ready to hit when their turn.
A Melina's eyes filled with tears to see applauded and encouraged other
children. He believed that Rafael was responsible for that would have improved so
much.
He could finally relax a little and think about other things.
He wondered if Rafael would know bets. It seemed incredible that their
neighbors were having fun that way. She wanted to take it with humor, but it was
humiliating. Especially if things did not go as I wanted and Rafael and she could
not get out their differences. Still worried that Rafael had not waited in the parking
lot, as they always had.
As training progressed, I was getting angry more and more. She was upset
with Rafael for not wait, with Beau for mocking her and all the people of Red
Rock that was betting and playing with their feelings.
When training is finished, he approached the team. Beau was talking to
Rafael. He saw shook hands. Then Rafael went to the park and motioned with his
head to follow him.
Elliot will play tomorrow, 'he said.
They wanted to scream with joy and embrace the child, but stopped
himself. Elliot did not know how worried they had been. Besides, he knew he did
not like physical contact.
I have really wanted to see you play. Elliot, you've worked hard and I'm
proud of you, 'said the boy. Where is your car? Rafael asked when they reached the
parking.
-at Home. Vine walk.

'And you will not crossed my mind tell me?

No, I did not think, 'said Raphael. Anyway, we finally found it, right?
But we always look at each other and walked together when Elliot arrives.
I'm sorry that ...
Did you know that have made bets about us? she interrupted suddenly.
He saw the boy's looked very worried.
Yes, I had heard said Rafael.
'Have knew? And you did not think I'd want to know too? How come you
have not told me? I would just comment Beau. And ...
Enough! suddenly exclaimed the child while he covered his ears. Stop
shouting!
They had been crying, but knew that Elliot was very sensitive to sounds.
He did not wait for Melina apologized and ran to where his mother was waiting.
-what's Happened? -Les Debbie Anderson asked with concern. Is not
going to ...?
It -Jugar morning he interrupted quickly Rafael
-. But Melina and I were discussing and felt uncomfortable. Sorry.
Me too sorry Melina added. It had nothing to do with him or baseball. It
was my fault.
Do not worry, Melina. Get used to people argue in front of him.
I know, but I feel I must apologize.
Melina went to the car and opened the door. Elliot was sitting in his seat
with a seat belt.
I'm sorry I raised your voice, Elliot. Sorry you do feel bad.
'It's all he replied without looking into his eyes.
-Thx. Tomorrow we are in the party. Would you mind to come my
family? Surely come the family of Rafael. Everyone wants to encourage your
team.
Elliot was silent for a few seconds.
No, okay.

All right, see you tomorrow then.

They said goodbye to Elliot and his mother.
Sorry to worry you will not see us here, 'said Rafael Melina as they were
alone. But do not you think your reaction is somewhat exaggerated?
She knew she had reacted badly, but had many emotions to the surface.
Also believed that what bothered him most was that he had not thought of it when
Melina did nothing to think about it.
Well, you may be right, 'she said.
And as for Elliot, do you think you are ready for the party?
-as Far as technique is concerned, still has much to learn, but is better
controlled than I expected. I saw that you were doing a gesture that managed to
distract him when he was about to lose control.
Yes, it's a sign that reminds you to calm down.
I found out that she likes those gestures that make hand coaches to give
directions hitters. And the more complicated are these signs, you'd like. He learns
very fast.
She stared at him a moment before saying anything else.
'Is that all you do it right, Rafael?
What do you mean by that?
It's a very direct question. We never seem to make mistakes and always
say the right words.
You have sacrificed much time and effort to help a child who does not
even know, you take care of your father ...
And also I'm very good doing 'I love Rafael said mischievously as he
approached a little closer.
The way he said it got excite and had to concentrate on the conversation
so that your mind does not wander in other ways.
'You're too modest.
See? I'm not perfect, 'said Raphael. You've found my biggest flaw.
Happy?
No, she was not happy, I could not be when he was showing him that he
did not care.

Well, I have to go.

Me too, 'said Raphael. See you tomorrow.
He left alone and even more angry. It hurt to see how things had broken
down between the two. Rafael and even seemed able to see how hurt he was.
On the way to his car, he saw Beau and ran toward him.
-Beau! Wait a minute! she called her. Just wanted to thank you for
including Elliot on the computer. It is very important to us all she said when
reached at his side.
-The Really do not think I'm fully prepared, but has not left me no choice,
do not you think? I play a lot here and I can not afford to have bad press.
What do you mean? What are you talking about?
'Do not you has told Rafael? He threatened to report me unless it agreed to
Elliot play on the computer.
I can not afford to hire a lawyer to defend my interests Beau 'I said. Rafael
has managed to control the boy, so do not have to sit on the bench if you want. Or
if you prefer, stay home and not come to the party.
He turned and left without another word. She stood where he was,
thinking about what he had just said. It seemed incredible that Rafael had not told
who had threatened to coach Elliot.
He got into the car to go home. On the way there, I saw Rafael on the
sidewalk on Main Street. She approached him and rolled down the window.
-Te Take?
No thanks Rafael replied without stopping.
I want to talk to you.
-What Want to complain and I'd rather not hear.
Thank You.
She seemed so unfair that he spoke as if he was always complaining and
angry with him.
I have something to tell you. It is important insisted she
-. This is my grandfather.

'No need to tell me anything, and I've imagined. Also, I am not concerned.
It is part of the past and no longer matters.
Melina gasped at that. Those things were very important to her. We care
about the past and present.
And above all, your future.
The car behind him got tired of waiting and honked. I had to keep
walking, but decided not to go home and go to Rafael.
When he arrived, Melina was sitting on the steps of the front door. He did
not react in any way to see it. He took the keys and opened the door without saying
anything, but at least it gave her in his face.
'I have not come to see your house she told him as he entered.
She followed him into the kitchen. Rafael was opening the refrigerator
and offered a drink.
You want to take some nachos and salsa? She offered Rafael.
Yes, thank you.
The kitchen was beautiful, stainless steel and granite.
He liked the furniture and tiles that had chosen lot. He sat at the table and
took a sip of his soda.
What do you think? Rafael asked as he sat beside her.
You did a great job.
Rafael thanked him nodding his head and gave a good sip refreshments.
Well, what you had to say?
I talked to my grandfather and admitted that ...
'That is in the past, change theme-interrupted Rafael.
Beau told me that you threatened him. You told him if he did not accept
denunciaras Elliot on the computer.
So was. Anything else?
Melina realized he did not want to talk more about it.
Why do not you tell me what bets?
'I figured you be angry Rafael replied.
-Decidiste On your own did not need to know something that affects me
so directly?

'I found out the same day we broke up and thought it was not important.
Not broke, it was you who ended the relationship-reminded him.
All right, I accept the correction.
I did not know what to think of Rafael. It did not seem very happy to be
there, but neither seemed annoyed. I was running out of anything to talk and his
anger was fading.
Well, I guess I should go, 'she said.
Want to see the rest of the house?
His offer the confused even more.
Yes, of course.
He saw that he still had no furniture in the dining room. Rafael said he
would wait until they restore the wainscot to buy them. The room was almost
empty and his office had only a table and chair.
Upstairs were two empty bedrooms that were not painted. Another room
was ready, Rafael said he was using his father when he slept over. What I liked
most was the master bedroom. It was completely renovated and was spectacular.
He had a tall headboard carved wood.
The bedspread and cushions were cheerful and seemed very comfortable.
I made this bedroom pulling the wall that separated him from another
room. I wanted to have a dressing room and bathroom in the master bedroom
Rafael 'I said as it enseaba-. Come see the view from the window.
He saw the back garden was a mess.
'I've hired a landscaping company to fix it and start next week. I'll put a
wooden porch with a barbecue near the house. There will also be a swimming pool
and jacuzzi. The rest will be lawn.
Are you going to leave a space to put a garden? she asked, smiling. And
also have a dog or two?
Not be a real home if he had all those things.
View home was affecting more than I had expected. I had to leave and
thereby avoid the temptation to take to his bed.
But he realized that Rafael was not thinking the same when he looked at
his watch.

Well, I have to prepare for a meeting 'I he said.

Those words made a decision. The final.
Until tomorrow then. See you at the party
she replied as they walked down the stairs.
Rafael opened the door to leave Melina. Not accompanied her to the car,
but at least waited in the doorway until it away.
If the intention was to show that Rafael had already exceeded its own, it
had been very clear.
He was polite and nice, but nothing more.
He had never felt so disappointed.
Realize that some things did not fix and he broke forever. He never gave
up, but saw that he was going to have to do. He had hurt that had been interrupted
when about to talk about what had happened to his grandfather. It was as if nothing
mattered.
And I thought that if Rafael had already decided, nothing and no one
would get to change his mind.
Chapter 17
THE last day of March was sunny. It was the best way to start the baseball
season. Seeing that gradually were filling the stands, Melina did not know if it
would be better to sit on the bench or the public.
In the end, he realized that Elliot did not need down there and decided to
sit with other people. He found Elliot's parents and went to them. His family was
not long in coming and so did the brothers and the father of Rafael. There were
those who had collaborated, whether much or little, to get Elliot could play that
day.
Everyone screamed and applauded when he left the team Elliot, the
Orioles. He loved seeing everyone in their new uniforms and caps.
He knew he would not bring Beau Elliot until the final whistle, but all
children had to wait at the side of the field during the time duration of the meeting.
The coach was confident that Elliot would not fail with the bat, it was a lot of
responsibility for the child.

He started the game. Melina could not help observing the child. He was
completely focused on the game and encouraged his peers. There were successes
and failures, falls and moves quality. Since some bases was hardest hit with the
ball because the sun blinded. Almost all children were nervous, you could tell it
was the first game of the season.
When Elliot came to bat, missed the first blow.
He immediately sought out Rafael with his eyes and waited for it made
him a sign.
The second blow was amazing. He gave the ball hard and ran to third
base. Everyone stood in the stands, cheering and shouting enthusiastically.
The game continued and both teams were pretty evenly matched. Elliot
took a couple of times successfully.
When reached the final play, the Orioles trailed by one point. Elliot had to
hit again.
They needed chanced to at least tie the game.
He supposed it would be very nervous. He saw Rafael told something
small. Everyone was silent and looked at him expectantly.
-Puedes Do, Elliot! she shouted with all his might.
Other parents did too. The Anderson, however, remained silent and hardly
dared to look close.
She was also holding his breath. She was very proud of Elliot and realized
that he had become someone important in your life. And thanks to that child, there
was also able to enjoy Rafael for at least a few weeks.
What is it, honey? her mother asked.
Nothing, Mom. All is well ...
Elliot saw a moment away from the base and lowered his head. Then
again placed inside the square.
-HA Calm achieved by their own means' I whispered to Debbie Anderson.
Has not needed to Rafael.
Elliot's mother squeezed his hand affectionately. She knew better than
anyone how important it was that time.
'We are very lucky to have found you to Rafael and you. You do not know
how much I appreciate it.

A boy threw the ball and hit Elliot again. The player who had to catch it
did not succeed and rose two points to the scoreboard. The Orioles had managed to
win the match.
Everyone stood and applauded enthusiastically. Elliot's teammates ran to
him and hugged him. He feared that the attention was too much for the boy, but
saw that he was smiling.
Then he looked at Rafael. Watched small with a big smile, looked as
proud as any of those parents. Then he looked up at her and waved. Then the visor
down and could not see his eyes. I was very excited, almost ready to mourn. We
would have loved to hug him then and never let go.
But for many different reasons, I could not. Among other things, would
not give more than talk.
Still unfinished believed they were making bets at their expense. He
believed that such things could only happen in a town like Red Rock. But I was
very happy to live there.
I had decided I was not going to give up without a fight Rafael. This time
it would be different. If you lost forever, it would not be because I had not tried.
And if I had to go as far as to ask him to marry her, I thought so. I thought
at least it would get an answer.
It was part of tradition to hold a dinner after the first game of the season
and also the last. They met at a local pizzeria. But the noise of that place eventually
alter Elliot and his parents had to take him home early.
Rafael accompanied them to the car.
I'll see you at the next workout, boy Elliot when she told him goodbye.
His parents tried to thank him for what had happened that afternoon, but
said that merit was Elliot.
He was exhausted, but he was very satisfied. The party had made him
remember the times in high school, especially when Melina hear screaming from
the stands.
It was back to the pizzeria to say goodbye to everyone. I had many things
to do like some calls that could not wait.
He was about to open the door when the phone rang. Ross was Fortune.
I wanted to let you know that my brother Flint arrived this afternoon. We
have already done a DNA analysis and know soon enough if the father of Anthony
'I told the detective.

Cooper 'And you know something?

-Do Not. He goes where he finds work and sometimes spend months
without knowing it. Furthermore, we have found may William Fortune. We have
called the Police Department Haggerty, another town in Texas. They found a tramp
with amnesia could be him. Jeremy and Andrew have already left for there.
Then your cousin did well to keep hope. He was convinced that his father
was still alive and may eventually find it. It is great news. Thanks for calling me to
tell me.
He said goodbye to him and put the phone.
He met Beau front door of the pizzeria.
You were right, it was good idea to include in the team coach assured him.
'You also had. I was just ready to hit and still need to practice a lot.
But you're going to keep working with him, right?
You're very good coach, Beau. I have had many and I think you're one of
the best.
Thank you excited, 'said the coach.
And also you guessed right when you accused me of being jealous of you.
Professional-confessed Rafael I would have loved to play a level.
Well, it seems that you do well.
It's true, it does not go bad I admitted Raphael.
I'm sorry about your injury.
Thank you, it was very hard. But what can we do?
Life goes on.
He decided to seize the moment of cordiality to change the subject.
I'm told that the idea of betting on Melina and me was yours.
It's an innocent, nothing more entertainment. Although Melina did not
take it well at Beau she said laughing.
By the way, I'm looking to expand my business and accept another
partner, would you be interested?

No, but I'm good business and can help you out as a consultant. Your
sports center and how you manage it are unique, maybe you could expand your
idea.
The coach thanked him for his interest and shook hands. Beau came back
into the pizzeria and a few seconds later, came Melina.
I did not know where you were, she told him. I was surprised to not come
back in. Is Elliot right?
Yes, but I was pretty tired.
He would have preferred to leave without talking to Melina. I did not want
to do it until he was ready.
-I Am also exhausted. I'm going home.
Melina frowned at that.
Not even you can spend a minute talking to me? So much disgust you
produce?
-Repulsa? What the hell are you talking about? she asked him.
Yesterday, when I was at home, I did not have time to linger. Today, after
the game, have not even spoken to me. And I imagine that you were about to leave
without saying goodbye Melina 'I said. What do you think? Clearly you can not
stand to be with me.
You're wrong, but I have no time or energy to talk about it now. I have
things to do. Important things.
He saw that he had offended.
-very Well. At least admit that I am not important.
Rafael began to lose patience with her.
You're annoyed replied something important. Too important.
How can someone be too important? Not even know what you mean. The
way you've been behaving recent days has made it very clear that I am not
important to you.
Melina knew he was provoking Rafael with his words and that he was
about to explode. While dining at the pizzeria, all seemed earrings two of them,
trying to guess whether they were together or not. He had tired of that game.
Especially when she did not know if they could get to have a future both. Wearing
days without eating or sleeping well. I needed to put the cards on the table. I could
not wait any longer.

He believed that if he declared his love and asked her to marry her, get
much-needed response. But he realized that things were not going well, had not
counted argue that way with Rafael and hurt that I would not spend another minute
with her.
You think you're not important to me, Melina Lawrence? she asked Rafael
while glaring at him. I'll show you how wrong you are.
Rafael grabbed his hand and pulled. He took her to his car and waited with
some impatience until he entered her. Some parents had left the pizzeria to see
what happened and saw began to talk while watching.
But you know that you're throwing it all away
Rafael he said then. Where is the patience of everyone is talking about?
Two days. You only had to wait two days he added as he got in the car.
Melinda decided it was best to say nothing. She did not understand his
words, gave the impression that somehow had thwarted their plans.
She could hardly recognize the man beside her.
Rafael used to be more quiet and introverted when he was angry. The
man, however, was acting irrationally.
Rafael drove for several blocks. Then he got down Main Street and saw
that stopped in front of a somewhat ramshackle house. He saw then that it was the
building Crockett.
Do you recognize this place? Rafael asked.
Of course I do.
He stared for a few seconds. He was very serious.
This building was our future.
Yes, but you said at the wedding of my sister and I should have knocked.
Rafael frowned.
No, I said I was surprised that they had not done he said as he looked at
her. I bought it. Well, actually I have not yet signed the papers.
-why?
Because I'm going to open a law office in Red Rock. Right here, 'he said,
pointing the building.
Rafael got out and she did the same. They approached the house.

Just had to be patient for a couple of days insisted Raphael. It was going
to take care of to be cleaned. Then considered placing a table with candles and ask
get served a special dinner. After dinner, we ask that serve a special dinner. After
dinner, I thought out of his pocket a small box of black velvet, plant the knee and
ask you to marry me.
He barely reacted to hear, not stopped to think about what he'd said, only
it clear that Rafael was also just spoil their plans.
-Yup? But I would also ask you to marry me! But then I got scared and,
later, was too angry to do so.
They stared into his eyes as if they were about to fight a duel.
Wait a minute ... what? he asked her.
Would I were you going to ask me to marry you?
-Yup. And I thought how are you doing things are done in the most
romantic way Rafael replied angrily. I can not believe I've ruined everything. I
should have away from you the moment I saw out of the pizzeria to do things as I
wanted them, as planned.
Melina clutched to his chest. Her heart was pounding so hard it hurt.
I love you, Rafael she said as she approached him
with all my heart.

-. I love you

I love you too, 'said Raphael Melina.

When I stopped being angry with you, my heart was filled with love.
Much love she could barely breathe. I thought he just wanted to sleep with you,
that was nothing. And why I keep wanting it, but needed more he added with a big smile with happiness. You were going to ask me to
marry you? For real?
Melina laughed.
'I've been waiting for years and did not want to keep doing it. Do not want
to wait any longer.
Besides, I needed to have an answer soon.
Rafael then kissed tenderly and with all the love he felt.
Then marry me today 'I asked him.
-Hoy? But ...
'We've lost too much time. We can take the first flight out to Las Vegas.

Melina hugged him tightly, laughing and crying at the same time. He had
never been so happy.
Not today, but soon. I want a real wedding, with our friends and our
families. It need not be large, but want to do well. I've dreamed of this day since I
was fourteen.
-OK. I give most a month Rafael 'I said, stroking her hair. Let's tell our
families.
I try I did. We can ... No! Wait! We can not commit today Melina 'I said
as he looked around.
He saw that the street was full of cars.
-The Bet, Rafael. The 'I bet she recalled.
-Amo This woman! he shouted with all his might to see that they had
audience. Just ask her to marry me and she said yes!
Then he took her back into his arms and kissed her passionately.
Then heard the voice of Beau among dozens of people who had gathered
around him.
-A Pay, guys! I won the bet! said the coach.
Everyone applauded enthusiastically and others blew the horns of their
cars.
They're bells' I said Rafael at earshot. The bells redoubled by us.
It's our song she replied as she took her face in his hands.
We were sad to have spoiled their romantic plans, but decided at that
moment that would find a way to pay damages.
Let's tell our families before they learn by others.
Rafael I love you 'I said again as he took her hand and went with her to the
car.
Those few steps were the first that gave together towards their future.
And I love you, 'she said with tears in her eyes.
He had all his dreams at hand.
End
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