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“About peaches or exploring?”

Gabi raised her eyebrows. “Exploring.” She unbuttoned Aisha’s blouse and kissed the top of her breasts. “These are my favourite peaches,” she said.

The knock at the door made Aisha jump. Gabi kissed her and went to answer it. The concierge grinned at her as she took in the trolley, an ice bucket, and a selection of tapas.

“We didn’t order anything.”

“This is with the compliments of the man who dropped you off. He also asked that we give you these.” He handed over two small boxes and an envelope.

Gabi took the gifts as he wheeled the trolley in.

“Would you like me to open the champagne, Miss Sánchez?”

Gabi looked at Aisha and Aisha nodded. Gabi tipped him and after the door shut, she laid the boxes and the envelope on the bed. She poured two flutes of champagne and handed one to Aisha.

“It’s from Matías,” Aisha said. “Read it to me.”

Aisha opened one of the boxes and stared at the contents.

Gabi opened the envelope and started to read aloud.

Dear Aisha,

I took the liberty of making your rings, as I promised I would. It was an honour. I hope you both like them. I hope you will wear them after sharing vows in the eyes of God, at some point in time when we are treated as equals, but until then, please put them on and celebrate the love you have for each other every day. You are braver than I was or ever could be. Look after my niece, and make sure she continues to make beautiful jewellery. I will keep an eye on your mama and Estrella. Go and be free.

Matías.

P.S. Tell Gabi, I could have sold the eagle a thousand times over.

Gabi smiled.

Aisha opened the second box and set the rings on the bed next to each other. She looked at Gabi. “Will you wear a ring for me?”

Gabi nodded.

Aisha held Gabi’s hand and slipped a ring onto her wedding ring finger. “This is a token of my love,” she said and kissed her.

Gabi took the other ring and put it on Aisha’s wedding ring finger. “I now consider us wife and wife.”

Aisha laughed, and Gabi kissed her.

“At least until we get the chance to marry for real.”

Aisha nodded. They undressed and sipped champagne.

“I’ve never made love in a hotel before,” Aisha said.

“I know,” Gabi said. Aisha stroked the length of Gabi’s arm. Gabi inhaled sharply. “I haven’t either,” she said.

“Really?” Aisha ran her finger down the centre line of Gabi’s naked body.

Gabi gasped. “Odd as it might seem, no. You will be my first.”

“You’re so sexy,” Aisha said and moved closer.

Gabi held her tight and inhaled her scent.

“I’m glad you were my first,” Aisha whispered.