Enzo
As we pulled up to the Perez family's house, I couldn't help but be impressed by the grandeur of the estate. The house belonged to my uncle, Javier Perez, a wealthy businessman known for his luxurious properties. The Mediterranean-style villa stood back from the road, surrounded by meticulously manicured gardens and a large wrought-iron gate.
The driver entered a code, and the gates swung open, revealing a long, winding driveway lined with perfectly trimmed hedges and vibrant flower beds. The house itself was a sight to behold, with its cream-colored exterior, red-tiled roof, and large arched windows. A grand staircase led up to the main entrance, flanked by two impressive stone lions.
As we stepped out of the car, my cousin Raphael, at 25 years old, emerged from the house to greet us. He was a few years older than me, and although we had only met once as kids, I immediately sensed his outgoing and charismatic personality. He greeted us with a wide smile and a warm embrace, making me feel welcome despite my initial reservations. Raphael was accompanied by his two younger half-sisters and his stepmother, who also welcomed us warmly.
The interior of the house was just as impressive as the exterior. High ceilings, marble floors, and elegant furnishings greeted us as we entered. The living room featured a large fireplace, plush sofas, and an expansive window that offered a stunning view of the garden. The garden itself was a masterpiece, with a large swimming pool, a beautifully designed patio area, and a well-maintained lawn stretching to the edge of the property.
This was the first time I had seen Javier Perez, if I remembered correctly. Pedro and Louis seemed to already know him and his wife, but I hadn't known that his wife wasn't Raphael's mother until now. Both half-sisters had golden-colored hair like their mother, while Raphael had dark hair like Tio Javier. Tio Javier also bore a strong resemblance to my Papa—no smile on his face, just a serious expression.
"Hola! Hola!" Tio Javier said, looking at us.
He hugged Pedro and Louis first, then came over to me.
"And who's this little Gerado?" he said, giving me a look like I was still a kid. He glanced at Pedro, who, along with Louis, just smiled at Tio Javier. Of course, he knew who I was; he was only teasing me.
"He looked exactly like Gerado at this age," Tio Javier said, shaking my face gently as he held my chin between his fingers. He let out a rich man's chuckle before pulling me into a tight hug and giving me a playful shake.
For a moment, I wondered if Raphael might feel jealous with his Papa's attention on another boy, but he only watched us, smiling. I had never seen anyone in our family smile like that. There was something odd about him—so happy and excited. Was he adopted?
"You guys look tired," Tio Javier said, putting an arm around my shoulders. It seemed he had no intention of letting me go.
"Not tired. But, you know, it's so boring to be on a plane for hours," Pedro replied.
"Get ready for the party tonight. All the relatives will be here," Tio Javier said.
"A party?" I asked, a bit shocked. I hated parties, especially family ones.
"Yes, little Gerado," he said, giving me that same amused look and squeezing my shoulder.
"My name is Enzo, and I'll be 19 this year," I replied, hoping he might feel a little embarrassed about treating me like a child.
"Oh! You're a big boy now," he said, laughing, and soon everyone joined in. What the hell? I glanced at Pedro, who just gestured for me to calm down.
So, maybe Tio Javier wasn't as strict as our Papa?
