A Fresh Start

Chapter 19

oOoOo

Well. I had no idea that my second interview would go so well and in such a direction. Rangeman. I had to pinch myself, thinking I hadn't been dreaming with all those good looking men in black. Being familiar with military men was an advantage, but it wasn't like I had a lot of experience there. Daddy kept work and home separate, mostly to protect me.

I could have been intimidated by the man they call Tank, Mr Sherman, just being in his presence and the sheer size of him. I smiled when he said his name was Tank. I think I amused him, but he also took me seriously, knowing Hector had vouched for me already. He was receptive and I sensed that me being his 1100 appointment was not what he expected. Getting straight to the point by revealing our short work history and connection in my freelance role as Phoenix sealed the deal.

The reaction of the men was welcoming and respectful. But, I have to admit my surprise when Carlos walked in from the stairwell. Carlos, Ranger Manoso, the boss man of Rangeman Miami. Hector kept all that under wraps, the sly fox.

Surprise of all surprises, Daddy walks in from the elevator, in his fatigues, having everyone quickly standing to attention. The looks of shock when he called me by my name was so funny, I had to work hard on keeping a straight face as Tank led the way into Ranger's nicely appointed office. Daddy declared he was my referee, putting Tank at ease. I figured he would follow that up, one way or another.

Since I was speaking about that sly fox, my Zorro Astuto, Hector, he then shows me his photos as he drives us to a diner for lunch. He was there all the time, at Little Havana! He chuckled at my surprise. Lester and Bobby never saw him either, or they would have said, I'm sure. However, he had photos of them! I am amazed how well he can blend in. Yes, sly fox, chameleon, master of disguise, yet not in disguise, stealthily moving about like smoke.

"You were there as well? I never saw you. You are a devious sly fox Hector."

"So, now you know, that Carlos is Ranger," he replied, ignoring my taunt.

"Nice redirection, hermano."

"I think Carlos was really wondering if you, my Hector and his Hector were one and the same! I could see his eyes light up at the mention of you already working on site, teaching me self defence and doing IT work."

We both smiled at that. Teasing the tiger. Yikes. It was fun.

"I did give him some subtle hints, and some more direct. But, I never figured he was the CEO. Oh my God! I hope that doesn't change things with us. It is just getting interesting. I really like him."

I clutched my neck, then my mouth and my heart in turn, as an involuntary action.

"You like him a lot! And … you get to see him this afternoon, again."

That comeback made me blush and he knows it as he laughs out loud after parking the SUV just outside a beachside diner. Amazing parking karma I say to myself as I glare at him. I purse my lips and frown. Maybe that was not said with the mute button off. I must watch that. He just laughs it off. Parking. Oh boy. That reminds me, I can now seriously look for accommodation options, and also a car.

We ordered salad and fries for lunch. We discuss getting a car and work. "I don't even know what the hours are! Meetings? Do I have meetings to attend?"

"Don't worry. Tank will send you all the essential details before the week is out. You're booked in for at least another week here at the hotel, so your morning routine will be much the same," he assures me.

I chuckle to myself, as I bit my bottom lip. "You know, I didn't even discuss the rest of the requirements, such as pay and benefits, with Tank. It's already approved. What if…?"

"Stephanie. Don't worry about that. You will be well-covered. Rangeman looks after its staff very well. You will not regret your decision."

Okay. I can let that go. Hector smiles and signals for the waitress. After a refreshing coffee, I was thinking about the dynamics with Carlos and me.

He's right of course. Best of all, I get to see him again this afternoon later, to have dinner with his Abuela.

"You're having dinner with his Abuela, already." It was a statement, not a question, as if he was reading my mind.

"Yes. She was there at Little Havana, taking photos as well, like you, as you already know and saw. She insisted Carlos come visit since he didn't let her know he was back. Then she said, "Bring your novia!" I was not expecting that. She then made me feel at ease and squeezed my hand. I want to get her something before we leave here. Is there a gift shop close by?"

Hector was a big help. He was so familiar with the neighbourhood already. He must have been here before. Of course, he was here setting up with Silvio, the Miami IT specialist, installing the new upgrades and extra equipment. Hector dropped me off at my hotel and wished me well for my afternoon with a teasing chuckle as he waved goodbye.

I decided to wear jeans and a nice top for dinner with Carlos and his Abuela. I had bought a low white candle, plain, non-scented, in a star-shaped crystal holder. I didn't want to arrive empty handed.

Carlos arrived early and wow! He looked stunning. He was immediately approached by one tall buxom fake-boobed blonde, and then another, equally enhanced, but with those awful trout pout lips, you know, with too much filler in her upper lip. She had fiery orange-red hair. Now, who did that remind me of? Carlos firmly and politely fobbed them off, his eyes and his smile totally focused on me. Wow. That alone makes me blush. He swaggered over to me. He was a sight to behold. My ovaries are screaming.

I shook my head as I stood up, watching his gorgeous smile come closer. Who am I kidding? Everything was gorgeous. The whole outfit getting closer was gorgeous! He was the whole package. Speaking of packages, that looked mighty fine too. Omigod! Shoot me now! His 100 watt grin told me he caught my glance southward. I wanted to bang my head against the wall, but there was none nearby, not even a pillar, and the palms just wouldn't do.

"Babe," he smiled with another gorgeous smile. How did I get so lucky? He looked perfectly edible. He was sex personified, on two legs. I had already ignored the nasty glares from Blonde Bitch 1 and Fiery-red Bitch 2. I was feeling a little, pfft, a LOT overwhelmed by his presence and he was enjoying it.

He was wearing slate grey coloured linen chinos and a pair of black nubucks on his feet. But my eyes were utterly entranced by his button up guayabera linen shirt, which only had the bottom three buttons done up and a traditional charcoal grey embroidered panel on each side, almost looking like he was wearing braces. It was a snug fitting shirt, hugging all those luscious, delectable muscles, with shiny charcoal coloured buttons. His chest was exposed, more than three buttons undone … or was it four, revealing black dog tags resting between his pecs on that luscious mocha-latte skin. I really wanted to reach out to tug them and brush my fingers against his delectable chest. Of course, black dog tags, as for black operatives.

I swallowed as my mouth went dry, inadvertently licking my lips which elicited a growl from Carlos. Oops. It was only then that I dragged my eyes up to his face. Oh boy. He was amused. More gorgeousness. He was the whole package.

"You like what you see, Babe?" he asked with a confident smirk.

Initially, being a bit awestruck, I nodded, biting my bottom lip, hoping I hadn't vocalised any of my thoughts. I regained my composure, smiled as I looked into his chocolate brown eyes which grew dark as he came closer, giving me a chaste kiss on the cheek. I really wanted it to be a lip lock, but resisted the urge to let my hormones run amok. Stupid resistance hormones! Maybe later. His eyes smiled as he recognised the warring emotions evident in my eyes. His finger lifted my chin, with a light kiss to my lips, "Hold that thought, Stephanie." The deep resonance of his rich timbre wrapped around my heart.

"Yes," I purred, "very much."

He had given me a thorough once over as well, very thorough which made me warm in all sorts of places. He had started with the big picture, before working his way up from my sandal-clad feet and toned long legs. He lingered on my legs.

Right at the last minute, I had decided a summer dress might be more appropriate than jeans, to have dinner at Abuela's house. Yes, she had seen me in a tank top and short skirt, which happened to be perfect for casual dancing in Calle Ocho, Little Havana, as it turned out. But this was a bit more formal, for want of a word. It was more of an occasion, so in deference to Abuela, I went for a more demure look, yet in a flirty style, to be honest.

Besides, I was now going to have dinner with my boss. Eek. Breathe Stephanie. "He is still Carlos." Hector had reassured me he was still the same man I went snorkelling with. Parasailing. Dancing in Little Havana. Breakfast at the hotel, Happy Hour and dinner. Oh my! We've been on so many dates, when they weren't really actual dates but they felt like dates. Another breath for composure.

I selected the cute boho style dress, with short sleeves and a V-neck, which showed my nice décolletage. I wore matching cobalt blue lacy bra and boy shorts underneath, feeling sexy without flashing it around, so to speak. The dress was figure hugging and fitted at the waist, falling in three tiers halfway to my knees. It was simple and tasteful and climate appropriate for an evening in Miami. The azure blue fabric fell so nicely, and the tiny white leafy print broke up the blueness. My leather sandals had silver and turquoise beads with a three inch comfortable heel. I selected my favourite new dangly silver and turquoise earrings, matching necklace and two silver bangles on my wrist. I went with just a little makeup and my hair cooperated with lovely loose curls. It felt natural and right.

"From where I am, I like what I see, Stephanie. You look lovely. I have to say how wonderful the blues capture your eyes. So beautiful."

All my concerns were for nought. He was still Carlos, the man I met a few days ago, just casually over breakfast. Here he was my friend, not my boss. He was relaxed, and happy, while oozing undeniable sex appeal. I relaxed as he escorted me to his car, the Porsche turbo, which made me smile. It felt comfortable with his hand in the small of my back, completely ignoring Bitch 1 and Bitch 2 as they tried a second offensive. He deftly manoeuvred around them as if he didn't see them, just as he did the large potted palms. Take that bitches! I was feeling a bit possessive about my man. Oops. My man? Where did that come from?

He had the door open, smiling with an eyebrow raised suggestively, while watching my legs as I sat down into the soft luxurious leather. Passing me the seatbelt, he lightly brushed my lips with a whisper of a kiss. Is it hot in here? Oh my. "Sexy legs, Babe," he whispered as he grinned, closing the door. My lips were tingling. Has he upped the ante? Oh boy. I was enjoying the tease and it was exciting. I felt all fluttery inside. But hey. We're going to his Abuela. I can't very well go in all girlie and flushed, so I worked at composing myself. The light music was pleasant. I glanced at his profile, so strong and confident, and oh so very sexy. His mouth turned up a smidgen on the end, knowing I was watching him. Damn traitorous hormones won't behave. I blew a stray curl off my forehead.

The drive was not too far since we were there in fifteen minutes, parking outside some stucco walls with a portico entry. Smiling, he opened the door for me, pulling me close as I stood up. "You smell nice, too, Babe," he husked.

The moment was broken by a happy squeal from Abuela. We were five minutes early. Carlos was a punctual man, that was already evident in everything he did.

"Hola, Abuela Rosa," he smiled as he took my hand, while grabbing a gift bag from behind my seat, and locking the car as we climbed the steps to her portico. I smiled at her, "Hola, Abuela."

The moment Carlos was within her reach she scowled at him causing Carlos to gasp as she smacked his head. Damn. She was quick.

"Ouch!"

"Carlito! Do up some buttons! You look like a gigoló!"

"Lo siento, Abuela," he replied in embarrassment, but was still able to sneak out a cheeky wink as he did up a button, and then another after a growl emanated from his grandmother. I had to cover my mouth and turn my head to stop myself from giggling. Abuela winked at me as she grabbed my hand, leading me inside.

"Carlos does know about respect, Stephanie."

I tightened my lips but couldn't hide my smile. To break the tension, I gave her the gift-wrapped candle. She was delighted as she unwrapped it from the fancy cellophane. "I have the perfect place for this," as she walked over to a small altar with a brass crucifix, the Virgin Mary, her rosary beads and a beautiful bejewelled cross, on a small shelf. Moving the older candle out of the way, she replaced it with my crystal holder. "There. It needed something new. How thoughtful of you. Thank you so much, Stephanie."

Carlos smiled proudly at me then greeted his Abuela with two kisses as he offered her the gift bag which held some flowers in cellophane wrap, and a gift box, probably chocolates. She sniffed the box and smiled at her grandson approvingly. She carefully removed the potted orchid and walked into a beautiful room with lots of natural light, an atrium, which had lots of beautiful tropical plants and orchids. She admired the vibrant pale pink with the striking contrast of the magenta lips of her new cattleya orchid, which Carlos had especially chosen for her. She was delighted with the fragrance, smiling as she read the identity tag, 'Crownfox'. She squeezed his cheek which made me chuckle.

"Come. You can help set the table, while I serve," she smiled, leading me by the hand to the kitchen. Carlos showed me where the placemats and cutlery were while he set the water jug and the glasses on the table which a had a fancy table runner with four cork mats waiting for the serving dishes.

"Mm-mm. It smells delicious." Carlos hugged Abuela and leaned over her shoulder inhaling the spicy aromas. She smiled indulgently at him. When he tried to taste it from the pot her wooden spoon suddenly appeared from her apron and whacked him on the wrist, making him laugh. They both chuckled. Nothing wrong with her reflexes.

I noticed the lovely aromas as we came inside, but here in the kitchen it was heavenly.

"I have cooked Carlos' favourites. Ropa vieja. It's a Cuban speciality, our national dish, in fact. We have rice and black beans, and I am just frying the plantains to accompany them. Then I have made a special dessert to have with coffee. I hope you like spicy food."

"Oh yes, I do. It smells divine. I can't wait to taste it," I said eagerly.

"Sit. Carlos, bring the pot over to the table."

Carlos showed how to serve the dish and accompaniments. Abuela watched me and grinned at my delighted reaction. Oh my God! It was a wonderful taste sensation, so tantalising. Carlos grinned as he nudged me, since I might have moaned, or hummed, or both. Abuela Rosa was watching our interaction closely, smiling all the time.

Dessert? Oh, my Lord! Dessert was a Cuban flan. Carlos was right, Cuban flan was more special than just a Crème Caramel, but don't tell the French that! More so because Abuela made it. Silky smooth and so creamy, it was heavenly. Carlos' eyes darkened as I threw my head back, with a whispered, "Babe." The coffee was rich and a perfect accompaniment to the sweetness of the flan.

Oops. "This is so divine, Abuela. Carlos was right. There is none that can compare to this."

When I got up to help clear the table she grabbed my hand, nodding to Carlos. He smiled and indicated I should go with her.

In her cosy sitting room she showed me some framed photos of the family, Carlos and his siblings, his parents, his cousins, the whole clan and the special ones of Carlos in his uniform. There was a great shot of five men in dusty desert fatigues. I glanced at Carlos in the kitchen and he nodded with a knowing grin. I recognised Tank, Lester, Bobby and even Ram, with Carlos. A couple of others in a different location. They looked formidable in their sunglasses and full kit, that made my heart skip a bit. I could feel Abuela watching me.

"My nieto is so handsome, don't you think, Stephanie?"

"Oh, yes!" I gasped.

In dress uniform he was even more dashing, with medals and his green beret. A sense of pride washed over me. I fell a bit more in love with him. In love? Yes. Oh my. I did say that, in my head, I hope. I had to check my mouth for drool. Abuela, chuckled at me. She squeezed me and encouraged me to sit next to her on the comfortable sofa. On the shelves, in amongst special ornaments, was an array of albums, all of which were neatly displayed, catalogued, and labelled, including photobooks, one of which she took from the shelf.

"I want to show you something special." Carlos came to join us and sat with his arm around his Abuela, smiling and curious.

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