Chapter 150

“Mack, have you had Puerto Rican cuisine before?” Simon asked, push rice around in a big skillet.

“Probably nothing as authentic as what you’ve got cooking. It smells delicious.”

Just then, the garage door opened, and a giant of a man filled the doorframe. His skin was dark as if he’d been in the sun for days at a time, his hair black and long, tied into a ponytail. His work boots were heavy on the wood flooring, his carpenter jeans worn from working on job sites. His expression wasn’t inviting or friendly, and I found my knee beginning to bounce while I sat on the stool. He was more intimidating than Nancy Neely.

Kelsey popped from her seat, and the massive man melted when he saw his daughter rushing toward him. She wrapped her arms around him, and he cradled her, his eyes squinting as they embraced. “Papoose,” he said softly, swaying back and forth. “It’s so good to see you.”

Kelsey’s