Chapter 16: Familia

Zain

“So, you’re in love with her, right?” Raphael took a sip of his beer as the ocean breeze blew through the open bar. It was one of their favorite sports bars, Louie’s on the Beach. They served seafood and steaks, wings, and had the best beer on tap around. And the beautiful view of the beach didn’t hurt.

Zain nodded, looking down at his beer, and took a swig. Then he looked out over the ocean. “I’m going to keep in touch with her while she’s in college and I’m playing ball.” Zain smirked as his eyes met Raphael’s. “I just don’t want to lose her to another guy in the process.”

Raphael shrugged. “Then marry her.”

Zain’s head snapped up. “What? Where did that come from?”

“Marry her in secret.” Raphael took another sip of his beer. “No one would know. And then you’ll know that she won’t be going anywhere while she’s in college.”

Zain laughed, shaking his head. “Of all the crazy ideas, I think this one takes the cake.” He took another sip of his beer. He would give anything to be able