In the picturesque Azores, Athena Diaz and Rick del Río's lives intersect in an unexpected encounter.
Athena, a talented singer and actress, seeks solace from her hectic New York life, while Rick, an aspiring writer, crosses paths with her.
What s...
We are leaving Malaga airport. I have only been to Spain a couple of times—once to Madrid and another to Barcelona for different tours. I don't know anything about the capital of the Costa del Sol except for what I've seen in photos, some videos, or internet articles.
I'm a little nervous. It's a different place, new and beautiful, and very festive. I don't know how people will react when they see me. Will they rush towards me wanting autographs? Will they ignore me because they didn't expect my presence? So much uncertainty...
We traveled because tomorrow is Rick's birthday. I have several days off and I wanted to spend it with him. I also wanted to experience Malaga firsthand and discover what makes it so charming for those who travel here and decide to change their residence shortly after.
We boarded the plane last, trying to avoid being recognized in the line, but it was inevitable. As soon as we set foot inside, even though most of the passengers were already seated, we were identified. If it weren't for the flight attendants informing that the plane doors would close in just a few minutes and they would depart without those who hadn't boarded the aircraft, people would have surrounded us and asked for photos.
"That's what being a world-class star is all about," Rick said, shrugging his shoulders.
The passengers we traveled with in first class asked for autographs and congratulated us for being an ideal couple. After taking some selfies and signing autographs, they left us alone to enjoy our first long-distance trip together.
Retrieving the luggage was a bit more complicated. I had a suitcase that I had to check because I bought a few gifts for Erin, Rocio, Fran, and Rick's parents—and many things I need for hygiene, makeup, shoes, and, of course, swimsuits, bikinis, and lots of clothes.
"Are you moving to Malaga?" Rick asked me when he saw me dragging that sizable suitcase.
"No, for that, I would need a whole plane just to carry my shoes."
"Damn! And here I am, perfectly content with a small suitcase..."
As we exited the boarding area, I found groups of fans with signs welcoming me excitedly. Rick's family didn't come to pick us up because they expected this to happen. They'll be waiting for us at their home. We'll have something to eat for lunch and then they'll let us rest. It's overwhelming to have to meet Rocio, but Rick has sworn to me that she's excited to meet me and that there are no hard feelings. As the days go by, her relationship with Fran solidifies. Even Rick can't believe how much she has changed for the better.
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It feels like a century has passed since we landed, but finally, I step through the doors of Rick's apartment. As soon as they open, I feel at home. His parents rush to him, kissing and hugging him. Erin—a little whirlwind with light brown curly hair—runs into his arms. Rocio and Fran appear too—she is beautiful and very friendly, and he resembles his younger brother.
