*Mira*

I sat down on the grass next to Carlos, who was leaning against a tree in a quiet corner of the garden. Handing him a beer, I asked, “Want one?”

He didn’t say a word, just downed it in a few gulps. “Got any more?” he asked.

I nodded toward the small case next to me. He grabbed two more and finished them just as quickly.

The moon was bright tonight, and the entire garden bathed in a silver glow.

“Slow down,” I said, half-joking. “My ...