Against the Edge

Sunday Morning Promises

After saying his goodbyes at Ethan's, Miguel headed back to his apartment, feeling a lingering sense of contentment from his morning with the Reeds. Once he was home, he moved through his usual routine with ease, hopping in the shower and letting the warm water clear his mind.

It was Sunday, and he'd promised Blanca he would pick her up for church, a tradition they'd started together since coming to Harvard. Although both had demanding schedules, they tried to carve out time for these Sunday mornings.

Freshly dressed in a crisp shirt and neatly pressed slacks, Miguel grabbed his keys and made his way out. There was a certain calm in him as he walked out to his car, reflecting on the time they would spend together. He could already picture Blanca's smile as she greeted him, the warmth of her hand in his as they walked into the familiar church building. And even beyond that, the quiet peace of the service they'd both come to find comfort in each week.

With a slight smile on his face, Miguel got into his car, feeling ready for another shared morning with Blanca.

—

Miguel arrived at Blanca's apartment, feeling his usual excitement whenever he saw her. He knocked, and within moments, the door swung open. Blanca stood there in a soft, elegant dress that framed her perfectly, and for a second, he found himself speechless. The gentle blush of her cheeks, the delicate way her hair framed her face, everything about her radiated warmth and grace.

"Hi," she greeted, a playful glimmer in her eyes as she noticed his pause.

"Uh... hi," he finally replied, trying to mask his surprise with a grin. "You're... wow. You look amazing."

Blanca chuckled, giving a small twirl. "You like it?"

"Like it?" He shook his head, regaining his usual confidence. "I think I'm going to have to keep an eye on you at church to make sure no one else notices."

Blanca laughed, grabbing her purse and stepping closer to him. "I'm just glad you approve," she teased, linking her arm through his. "Shall we?"

Miguel nodded, still captivated by her. They walked out together, side by side, ready for their Sunday together.

—

The church was serene, sunlight filtering through the stained glass windows, casting warm hues across the pews. Miguel and Blanca joined the congregation, the familiar rhythm of the service bringing a sense of calm over them. Together, they listened intently, both feeling the weight of the week melt away in the peaceful setting.

As the service ended, Blanca offered him a gentle smile, knowing Miguel often took a few extra moments to pray. She slipped her hand in his briefly, giving it a reassuring squeeze before moving toward a quieter area of the sanctuary. Miguel closed his eyes, leaning forward with his hands clasped, a rare softness settling over his features as he began his prayer. For him, this time was more than just a routine, it was a moment to ground himself, to gather his thoughts, and to silently seek strength and guidance.

Blanca watched him from a short distance, admiring his peaceful expression, and took her own moment to pray. When they both rose and their gazes met, they exchanged a soft smile, each feeling a renewed sense of tranquility and purpose as they prepared to leave together.

--

On the drive home, the light conversation between them mirrored the gentle sway of the car. Blanca leaned back, glancing at Miguel with a playful glint in her eyes.

"So," she began, breaking the quiet with a playful lilt, "what did you pray for back there, hmm?"

Miguel glanced at her with a grin, shrugging as he replied, "Oh, you know, the usual, world peace, free pizza on Fridays... maybe that you'll finally admit I'm the funnier one between us."

Blanca rolled her eyes, laughing. "Right, because your stand-up comedy career is right around the corner. Come on, really. No secrets?"

"Nah, that one's between me and God," he said, a soft, genuine look crossing his face for a moment before he returned her playful tone. But in his heart, his prayer was simple, for everyone around him to be safe and happy, to stay by his side for as long as possible.

Blanca nodded, accepting his answer, and offered her own without missing a beat. "Alright then, my turn, I prayed for my Supreme Court dreams to come true, that my parents and friends stay happy, and..." she turned to Miguel, her gaze steady, "that I get to spend my life with you."

Miguel's eyes softened, his hand reaching over to take hers as he replied, "Well, that's one wish we can start working on right now."

They fell silent for a moment, the weight of their shared dreams filling the car. Then, breaking the gentle tension, Miguel's eyes lit up with a mischievous glint.

"So, if we're thinking about a future," he began, "how about our wedding day? Big and fancy, right? I'm picturing a ballroom. Maybe I'll surprise you with a dramatic speech, guaranteed to make everyone cry."

"Oh, dramatic speech, huh?" Blanca laughed, playing along. "As long as you don't trip walking down the aisle. You know how easily you get nervous under pressure."

"Hey, I'm the picture of calm under pressure," he protested. "Besides, I'm thinking we're going to be such a powerhouse couple that our kids will be running the world."

"Kids, huh? Future lawyers and basketball stars?" she asked, grinning as she pictured it.

Miguel laughed, "At least one should have your brains and stubbornness. I'll make sure they inherit my winning jump shot, though."

"And they'll be bilingual," Blanca added, thinking of all the languages they'd teach them, all the places they'd go together.

Blanca squeezed his hand, smiling as she saw the sparkle in his eyes. She felt his own excitement grow as she imagined a life with him, filled with laughter, adventures, and maybe even those silly dreams coming true.