Puerto Rican Mami

Island Dreams - Twenty Five

The next morning, the sun spilled golden rays through the curtains of the Airbnb, casting a warm glow on Emma's face. She stretched in bed, the scent of saltwater from the day before still lingering in her senses. It felt like the perfect day for another adventure.

As she moved toward the kitchen, Emma heard the familiar chatter and laughter of her friends. Ava was at the stove again, whipping up something delicious, while Mia chopped fresh mango and Olivia brewed coffee, the aroma filling the room. Emma couldn't help but smile at the sight of them, a family of friends she never knew she needed. "Morning, sunshine!" Olivia grinned, raising a mug of coffee in Emma's direction. "You look like you've got the whole island in your heart today." Emma smiled, feeling a surge of happiness at the energy of the group. "Just thinking about how much fun we've had already, and how it's only getting better."

"Well, we're going to make today just as good," Mia chimed in, sprinkling cinnamon onto the fruit salad. They gathered around the table again, this time with freshly baked pastries, eggs, and a spread of tropical fruit. As they ate, the conversation turned to the boat ride they'd planned for the day, but Emma's mind wandered, and she found herself staring at her phone. Her heart fluttered when she saw a new message from Miko.

**Miko:** "How's the island? Still wish I could be there with you."

Emma quickly typed back, her fingers eager to close the distance between them.

 **Emma:** "It's perfect, Miko. We're going on a boat ride today! I wish you were here so we could share it together."

She looked up, her thoughts lingering on Miko. Ava caught her gaze, raising an eyebrow. "Still thinking about her, huh?" Ava asked, teasing but with a knowing smile. Emma nodded, her cheeks tinged with a hint of pink. "Yeah, it's just... I really want her here. It's hard to fully enjoy it without her."

Mia leaned in, her voice gentle but encouraging. "She knows you're thinking about her, and I bet she wants you to make the most of your time. Besides, you'll have tons of stories to tell her when she gets back."Emma smiled softly, appreciating her friends' understanding. They all finished breakfast, then quickly got ready for the day ahead, each of them excited about the boat ride. Emma tossed on her favorite swimsuit and a flowing cover-up, the anticipation making her feel light and free. Once they were ready, they piled into a car and drove to the marina. 

The cool ocean breeze hit Emma's face as they walked toward the dock. Her heart skipped a beat as she spotted the boat—a sleek, white vessel that bobbed gently on the water, waiting for them. The group exchanged excited glances. "This is going to be epic!" Olivia said, practically bouncing with excitement. The captain, a kind-looking man with a sun-kissed face, greeted them as they boarded. "You ladies ready for a day on the water?" he asked with a grin. The boat pulled away from the marina, and the open sea stretched out before them. Emma couldn't get enough of the view—the vibrant blues of the ocean, the rocky cliffs, and the distant palm trees all blending together in a perfect tropical postcard. Her phone buzzed again.

**Miko:** "Take lots of pictures! And don't forget to make some memories for me."

Emma's heart swelled.

 **Emma:** "You bet! I'm capturing everything. I can't wait to tell you all about it.

"The boat ride was everything they had imagined and more. They anchored off a secluded beach with crystal-clear water that sparkled like diamonds in the sun. The girls couldn't wait to jump in, and soon, they were all splashing around in the waves, their laughter filling the air. As Emma swam, her thoughts returned to Miko, and she wished she could share these moments with her. She floated on her back, staring at the sky and imagining Miko beside her, laughing and enjoying the water. She knew their time would come—she just had to be patient.

After a while, they climbed back aboard, soaking wet and glowing with happiness. The captain suggested they take a quick detour to a nearby cove, where they could enjoy the sunset. "Perfect timing for some pictures!" Ava cheered, pulling out her phone.As the sun began to dip below the horizon, the sky lit up with hues of pink, orange, and purple. Emma snapped photo after photo, trying to capture the moment. She couldn't resist sending one last message to Miko.

**Emma:** "Look at this sunset, Miko! I wish you were here to see it with me..."

She hit send, her heart both full of gratitude and aching from the distance between them.Once they docked back at the marina, the girls made their way back to the Airbnb, tired but elated. They quickly showered, the fresh scent of coconut shampoo filling the air as they prepped for a quiet night. Emma sat down on the couch, her phone in hand, and dialed Miko's number. When Miko picked up, Emma felt like she could breathe again.

"Miko! You won't believe the day we had!" Emma's excitement bubbled over as she recounted everything—the boat, the swim, the sunset. "I'm so jealous," Miko teased, but Emma could hear the sincerity in her voice. "It sounds amazing. But I'm glad you're having the time of your life. I can't wait to hear all about it when I'm back."

"I'm saving all the stories for you. And the photos. There's no way I'm letting you miss out on any of it." Miko laughed softly. "I'm looking forward to it. And... when I get back, let's plan something. Just the two of us. I've got a feeling it's going to be unforgettable." Emma's heart skipped a beat. "That sounds perfect." As they said their goodbyes and Emma hung up, she knew her connection with Miko was only growing stronger. Even oceans apart, their bond was real—an adventure waiting to unfold.And soon, when Miko returned, Emma promised herself they'd make their own memories—together.