Royals in Toledo

Chapter 14

For a moment, I thought they were going to snob each other. It seems typical for someone like Aaron, who is wealthy, to not need to befriend or even acknowledge the presence of someone who is not significant to him, like Luis. That's one of the reasons why I'm surprised that he is kind to me.

"What incident?"

Aaron's attention turned to me. I couldn't think of a better way to explain how I met Luis. I thought that by telling the truth, it would be advantageous. But what I did opened a can of worms. It's terrible. I feel like I'm in the hot seat.

"When we went to the market, some kid snatched my wallet. Thankfully, Luis was there to save the day. Otherwise, Carmen and I wouldn't have had any money to pay for the ingredients." I explained.

Aaron furrowed his brow. "How do you know he didn't orchestrate the whole thing?"

I saw Luis tense up. And I didn't want them to fight here. Aside from everyone having a good time, there are many children around, and I don't want to be the cause of their argument. It's embarrassing.

"Excuse me for a second." After excusing myself, I pulled Aaron to the side. Maya was left in line with Luis. "What's the problem? Why would you say something like that to his face?"

He crossed his arms. "Is it wrong to ask?"

"Your question is wrong. It's like you're accusing him of something he didn't do. You weren't there. How would you know what exactly happened?"

"You told me what happened. I don't need to see it." He stared at me. "Why are you even defending him? Do you like that guy?"

I could hear the annoyance in his voice. His eyes seemed to be burning, and I didn't know why.

"What? Sir—" I emphasized the respect in addressing him. If we continue this conversation, it will be like a lover's quarrel. "He is just a new friend of mine. I don't want to offend him. I'm also new to town. Is it wrong for me to make new friends? I don't remember signing a contract that says I can't be friends with members of the opposite sex."

"I'm just making sure you're not being taken advantage of."

I furrowed my brow at his words. For a boss, he is taking this way too seriously. He cares too much. And if he's not careful, I might start thinking that he likes me — which is a weird idea because we're not compatible.

Aaron left me and went back to his friends. He was in a foul mood. I returned to Maya, who was now paying for bottled water. Luis was still there, and I felt embarrassed to apologize to him.

"It's not a big deal. Don't worry. I didn't take offense." He smiled at me, somehow reassuring me.

"It's still embarrassing. I apologize for my friend."

"Is Aaron really just your friend? He seems to be too caring. I mean, not that I would do anything bad to you. I have no ill intentions."

"He is just being cautious because he's my boss. If anything were to happen to me, he would be responsible. That's all there is to it."

"Okay, if you say so." He sighed. "So, have you tried any of the rides yet?" I shook my head. "Okay, then we can go together. We can all go together in pairs now. There are eight of us."

I wasn't sure if that was a good idea, considering Aaron was already unhappy. If he sees me hanging out with Luis, he might think I like him more than a friend.

Ugh! Why do I care what he thinks anyway? He's just my boss who's keeping an eye on me and Maya. If I may say so, he's overdoing it. I do appreciate it though.

I introduced Luis and his companions to Lionel and Carlos when we approached. Unlike Aaron, they were kind to him and didn't come up with any accusations or foul play. The whole time, Aaron didn't smile. He seemed upset with me too. I swear, if he says I can only be friends with them, I will think he is very petty for his age. He's worse than a two-year-old having tantrums.

When everyone agreed to ride the ferris wheel together, three people could fit per ride. I thought we could still go in pairs, but Aaron suggested that there be three people each, except for Mario and Anna, who are a couple and shouldn't be interrupted.

And guess what the seat selection was – Aaron gets to be in the same seat as me and Luis. How awkward!

"Can't Maya join me and Luis, and you go with your two friends instead?" I asked him. My smile faded when I heard his suggestion. He sounded like it was the best idea in the world.

"Maya will be fine with Carlos and Lionel. It's better that I go with you, so I can protect you. Let's face it, I don't know this Luis guy." He glanced at Luis, who was a few feet away, talking on the phone.

"He is my friend. Why are you thinking ill of him anyway? Do you personally know him?"

Aaron looked hesitant and couldn't answer with a yes or no.

"Well, do you know him? Because if you do, then I'll believe you."

He sighed. "No. But trust me, it's better if I'm with you. You can sit in the middle, so you can still talk to him."

Oh, like it's a bonus! What the hell is wrong with Aaron? It seems like he doesn't want me hanging out with Luis, and he doesn't even know him. If I were in the palace, I would have Luis investigated. Actually, even if I don't do that, the security lead in palace will do it anyway.

But for now, I'm tired of arguing with Aaron. It's a losing battle.

"Fine. Whatever floats your boat." I rolled my eyes at him, and he smiled. A real smile, not one of those annoying ones he does once in a while. I felt my heart skip a beat.