Page 37 of Harper's Holiday Romance

On the drive back to the hotel I sensed a sadness in her mood. She intently focused on making up silly turtle stories so I would forget about Squirtle’s plausible doom. In doing so she allowed her harsh façade to drop. Humans are complex beings, and I believed there was something more to Julia than her hard-faced surface level exterior.

Billie

You’re going to lunch?

Well, isn’t this a turn of events?

Me

It was unexpected. Maybe I misjudged her.

Sarah

Or maybe the turtles have magic powers . . .

Billie

It’s a spell! Sarah, you’re right.

She’s been made to see Julia for someone she isn’t.

Me

It’s not a Disney film you idiots.

Sarah

Spell or no spell. I can’t wait to hearall about it.

Billie

Agreed!

The bamboo structure looked like a small wooden version of the iconic Sydney Opera House. The tightly woven beige chairs looked like a slantedMfrom the side. The faded wooden decking dropped a level the further in I walked, and the platform suspended out above the pool. We took a spot in the corner under one of the large bamboo canopies for shade. The Asian style cuisine had rave reviews. The menu was small but well chosen.

“Can I get you a drink?” The waiter asked. His name badge read Javier.

“I’ll do a Long Island Iced Tea,” Julia said.

“And for you señorita?” Javier asked.

“I’ll have an Aperol Spritz, please.”

Javier shook out the napkin from the plate and placed it over my lap. He then moved at lightning speed to clear two tables and provide three others with drinks.

“What is in a Long Island Iced Tea?” I asked.

“Oh, erm, vodka, tequila, rum, triple sec, cola, and I want to say gin as well. I think it depends on how it’s made.”

“So, it doesn’t actually contain any iced tea at all?” I laughed.

“No, it just looks like iced tea.” Julia shrugged. “Go figure.”

When the drinks arrived, Julia pushed hers towards me. “Try it.”

I obliged.

The taste wasn’t half as bad as I expected. The cola, and small amount of lemon flavouring disguised the sheer amount of alcohol. It was delicious and quite refreshing.