Say Forever(33)

"I hope you like it," he says in a low raspy voice.

I bite my bottom lip as the warmth of his words coats my senses like rich, maple syrup. "I'm sure I will." I untie the bow and peel back the paper.

I gasp when I open the box. Inside is a bracelet and matching earrings. Each has the same diamond and emerald flower pattern as my engagement ring. I don't even have to ask if these are real; I know they are. I hold up the bracelet and the stones sparkle as they catch the reflection from the tree's glowing lights.

"Andrés. These must have cost a fortune."

He runs a hand down the side of my face. "You're worth it, mija."

I lean into him, relishing the feel of his touch as it sends ripples of pleasure across my skin. I'm so very tempted right now to postpone opening the rest of our presents and drag him into the bedroom. If only my mom wasn't expecting me.

After Andrés helps me put on the earrings, and I lavish him with many, many "thank you" kisses, we open less expensive presents, like jeans and scarves. He bought me a Spanish tutorial CD for the computer, and I can't wait to learn enough to have a conversation with him, even if I'm not able to master the accent. I love that smoky look in Andrés 's eyes when he opens the black lace nightie, that is technically a present I bought for myself, but more for his enjoyment. Finally, comes the last present, the largest one, and the one that makes my gut twist with apprehension. This present cost me my entire last paycheck, so I hope he likes it. If not, I've saved the receipt.

Andrés's face lights up when he opens the box, a collection of bronze pots and pans. The guy at the upscale culinary store told me it's what the professional chefs use.

He lets out a low whistle as he reads the words on the box. "You bought me bronze, mija? These are expensive."

He looks lost in thought as he stares at the box. He must be thinking I've spent too much, but his present couldn't have cost more than mine. Besides, he's such an awesome cook, he should have nice cookware.

"Your food deserves the very best. You should have been a chef, you know," I add, thinking he'd be more accepting of my gift with a little boost to his ego.

My heart sinks to my stomach as his face contorts into one massive frown.

"Don't you like them?" I hesitantly ask.

He pats the top of the box before setting it on the coffee table. I'm rendered speechless when he looks back at me. There's a sadness behind his smile I can't define. Why would pots and pans make him so melancholy?

He clasps my hands in his and kisses my cheek. "They're perfect, mija," he rasps into my ear. "I love them."

But his words lack conviction, fizzling like a balloon running out of air. I don't understand how my present could have soured his mood, but I definitely sense a change in him, like a dark haze has settled over his soul. And now my soul is hurting, too.


***


That big breakfast still weighs heavily in my stomach as we pack the car with presents and head to my mom's house. I end up sleeping the entire two hour drive. By the time we pull into my mom's circular driveway, I'm feeling rested and refreshed. I stretch my arms, relieved to see Andrés smiling at me. "Did you enjoy your nap?"

"Yesss," I say through a yawn.

My brothers bound toward me before I have one foot out the door. They're bouncing around the car like jackrabbits on speed, chanting something about "more presents."

"Yeah, I'm happy to see you, too, boys," I say wryly as I bend down and open my arms for a hug. Little Manny is the first rugrat to launch himself into my arms, followed by big brother, Gio. They cover my cheeks, in sloppy, sticky kisses and then tell me to hurry up inside so they can open more gifts. Have I mentioned lately my brothers are the cutest kids ever?

Andrés tells me to go with them while he unloads the car. I feel bad leaving him behind, but my brothers don't leave me much choice as they drag me toward the house. My mom is standing on the front porch, and my stepdad is beside her, dusting his hands on his apron.

"Merry Christmas," they sing in unison, beaming at me with infectious smiles.

It warms my heart to see how much those two are on the same wavelength. More than once, I've watched Doc and my mom finish each other's sentences and both laugh uncontrollably at the same jokes. I sure hope mine and Andrés's marriage will be this solid after we've had kids.

After sharing hugs and kisses with them, I'm anxious to get to work helping my mom with the decorations. She leads me through the tall foyer while Doc helps Andrés carry in presents.

My senses are accosted by the smells of warm cinnamon and nutmeg, and imagine my surprise when my stomach growls loud enough to rival a grizzly bear. My mom and I both stop and look down at my midsection.