Ashley
The village appeared through the trees like it had been waiting for us. We had already dropped David and his family off at their apartment.
I kept my eyes on the highway. His father parked under the big mango tree. And here is why I hate the village. Everyone came from nowhere and hugged me. I just hate it.
And here came the woman leader, the loose-mouthed aunt. “Ashley! It's been a long time! You've put on so much weight!”
“Alex.” Her mouth opened wide. “Look how tall you are.”
I gave them a fake smile the way I always did. I hugged the people who expected hugs. Alex stood close behind me, trying to ignore them.
His father clapped shoulders and answered questions about the drive. He looked lighter here, as if the long hours behind the wheel had already started to fade. After
