章 50: Chapter 50

Allie had produced a delicious spread, ceviche with bass, shrimp and scallops; peppers, citrus and pineapple; adobo pork with rice and beans; and fried plantains with freshly shaved coconut. As they ate, the sun began to set, casting the jungle around them in a chartreuse glow. The distant purr of an outboard motor broke through the melody of the waves.

"A neighbor?" Ross asked, his gaze naturally gravitating towards the water. He caught a glimpse of bow and sleek, silver railing as the boat approached.

"Not for a couple of miles." Allie jumped to her feet and strained to see for herself, "and no one has come to visit since I moved in."

"Maybe word got around that I'm in town, and the mayor, along with Manny, have sent out a welcoming committee." He laughed along with his joke until he noticed her strained, almost frightened look. He reached for her hand and gave her fingers a gentle squeeze. "Hey, are you okay?"