Saving Andrew

Chapter 13

Chapter 13
Puerto Rico

          

           The discussion about returning to Puerto Rico resurfaced, and with it, a tumultuous mix of emotions surged within me. Since my father's passing and my Aunt Carmela's departure, an unsettling feeling had taken root in my heart. Although a part of me yearned to return to my homeland, the recent birth event added a layer of complexity to the decision. I was reluctant to interrupt the positive momentum we had gained. Andrew, understanding my internal conflict, reassured me that Puerto Rico would always be there, waiting for our return.

Yet, fear gripped me tightly. The uncertainty of what awaited me in Puerto Rico, coupled with the haunting prospect of confronting the painful realities I had left behind, cast a shadow on the idea of going back. The absence of my father amplified the ambiguity shrouding my decision-making process.

"Babe, I understand the pain, but your father is gone. I'm sorry if it sounds harsh, but just as you encouraged me to let go of my friend Sam, please, let your father go," Andrew spoke gently, his hand rubbing my crossed arms, and my facial expression shifted in response.

As the discussions continued, I began to realize the truth in Andrew's words. Since my father's passing, there was nothing truly tying us to Denver. While we had our family and Joe's bar, Andrew held to his desire to leave. My heart became divided, torn between the longing for familiarity and the practical considerations that anchored us in our current life. Leaving behind Joe's bar, which held sentimental value, was a daunting prospect. It was our legacy, and abandoning it felt like leaving a piece of ourselves behind.

"I'll think about it..." I said succumbing to my husband's embrace.

That evening, while gently bathing my baby, Andrew approached me from behind, holding a picture of a beautiful beach house. Memories of our visit to the island years ago resurfaced, reminding us of his newly deep love for the sea. He expressed his desire to live there, captivated by the allure of the coastal paradise. I couldn't deny that the idea had also enchanted me, so I promised him I would carefully consider it.

Later that night, after our children had drifted off to sleep, Andrew and I engaged in a heartfelt conversation about our plans, sitting at the table enjoying hot chocolate. We pondered the practicalities of selling his house, managing our vehicles, and finding new job opportunities. The weight of these uncertainties hung in the air as we mulled over the possibilities. Eventually, exhaustion claimed us, and we retreated to our dreams, leaving the unanswered question lingering in our thoughts.

The following day, after telling Andrew my decision I reached out to my aunt Carmela, seeking her assistance in our endeavor. Knowing she could guide us through the house paperwork, we scheduled a trip to Puerto Rico. Andrew requested a few days off from work, and with the support of my mother and brother, who graciously offered to care for our children, we made the necessary arrangements.

Upon our arrival, my aunt embraced us warmly, filling my heart with a sense of belonging I had missed dearly. She graciously opened her home to us during our stay on the island. It was a joyous reunion, and I couldn't help but notice the transformation in Anita. She had shed her punk style, resembling the beautiful and compassionate young woman she had become.

Curiosity getting the best of me, I couldn't resist asking my aunt about the change. With a knowing smile, she whispered, "She's in love," and I immediately understood the source of her transformation.

As I unpacked my belongings, I couldn't help but reflect on the profound transformation I had undergone since meeting Andrew. Gone was the gullible and naive girl I once was, replaced by a woman who had weathered the storms of seven eventful years. While traces of my original style remained, my mind had evolved, no longer tethered to its former state. Lost in contemplation, I was suddenly brought back to reality by the warm embrace of my husband, his arms enveloping me tightly. I kissed him tenderly after caressing his bearded face.