When We Were by Mel Walker

Author:Mel Walker
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: Author Mel Walker
Published: 2021-08-09T00:00:00+00:00

Chapter Eight

It’s not officially summer yet, but the pier is packed as if it’s the middle of July. The small wooden area designated for dancing is filled with shoulder to shoulder, hip to hip dancers of all ages moving to the sounds of Daddy Yankee.

Over the last hour as we relaxed at the bar deck overlooking the pier, Luis regaled us with stories from his past growing up on the island. It dawned on me I’ve known him over a dozen years. Many of his tales I’d experienced with him. During the hour, Rylee had somehow become quieter. I can sense her anxiety as dance time approaches. She may be loud and impulsive, but she is also concerned about looking good in front of so many people. People who she will pass in town and on the local streets the next two weeks.

I watch in awe as Rylee’s wide eyes take in the scene. The first official dance song playing. She becomes a sponge, soaking in the scene. Her wide eyes ping pong from one couple to the next, I’m sure she’s assessing how she’ll measure up to the locals. Although I can watch her all night it will only lead to her stress level rising. I reach across the table. “Ready to shine?” I shout into her ear in order to be heard.

Laughter, the shuffling of shoes and merengue music fill the rapidly darkening air as I lead Rylee to the dance floor. Luis and Gabby are swallowed up by the crowd.

Her nervous smile says all the things her lips can’t. The tip of my index finger lands on the tip of her chin, I lift and capture her gaze.

“Hey, it’s just the two of us. Just like the fort. I got you.” I place one hand on her hip and squeeze her hand with my other and begin a basic salsa step. “That’s it.” My soothing words have the desired effect, and I feel the tension in her body relaxing. Her gaze flicks over my shoulder for a split second. “Hey, right here.” I recapture her attention, not wanting her to get distracted by what I know must be a growing chorus of onlookers interested in an American dancing salsa.

Puerto Rico is a visitor’s paradise; the island prides itself on tourism and hospitality despite its complicated history. If Rylee danced in San Juan, she wouldn’t get a second glance. It’s Puerto Rico’s largest international city, the capital, and the home base for visitors.

More adventurous tourists may make their way to some of the other major cities for a day trip to some of the more popular destinations. But few make their way to a small local town like Guanica, let alone stay in town and hit up a local spot like the piers after dark. That and this god damn skirt have placed a neon spotlight on Rylee.

“Thanks,” Rylee floats an appreciative acknowledgment as her stiff moves begin to loosen. “I think I’m ready for a turn or two.

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