Page 39 of The TV Show Rival
The man shook his head. “No, no. I am Miguel, a simple fisherman. This,” he gestured towards the vast expanse of ocean, “is my office.”
He settled onto the creaking dock beside Jamie, his gaze lingering on her a beat too long. Jamie, ever the friendly one, didn’t mind the attention.
Miguel was a master storyteller, weaving tales that seemed to come straight out of a Hemingway novel.
“Ah, you wouldn’t believe the size of the marlin I snagged last week. This beast, she was longer than my boat, with a body as thick as a tree trunk. Fought me for hours, that one did, pulling me all over the ocean like a ragdoll.”
Jamie chuckled. “And did you catch her?”
“Catch her? Senorita, catching that beast was like trying to wrestle a hurricane! No, she snapped my line clean in two, leaving me with nothing but a memory and a sore arm.”
“But,” he continued, lowering his voice to a conspiratorial whisper, “I know just where she likes to hide. A secret little cove, untouched by most fishermen. One of these days, I’ll be back for her, and that time, she won’t stand a chance.”
Jamie laughed.
The conversation shifted, Miguel regaling her with tales of his childhood spent exploring hidden coves and ancient ruins scattered across the island.
“This island holds many secrets, Senorita. Some beautiful, some a little… dangerous. But for those who know where to look, it offers a treasure trove of experiences. Perhaps, sometime, I could show you some of these hidden wonders.”
“I’d love that.”
As Miguel’s stories flowed, Jamie stole a glance towards the crew area. There, perched on a nearby crate, was Jess. Her arms were crossed, her face an unreadable mask. Jamie knew that look.
It was the same look Jess sported whenever their Boot Camp Brigade lagged behind in a challenge. Only this time, it wasn’t directed at the competition but at Jamie and Miguel.
Jamie felt a pang of guilt, quickly dismissed. She and Miguel were just having a friendly conversation. But Jess, bless her competitive spirit, probably saw it through a different lens.
The conversation with Miguel continued, punctuated by Jamie’s polite laughter and Miguel’s animated gestures. She couldn’t just walk away mid-conversation, especially since the man was a walking encyclopedia of local lore.
Finally, after what felt like an eternity, Miguel sighed dramatically. “Ah, it seems I have overstayed my welcome. Perhaps you would like to join me for a real Costa Rican meal sometime? My wife cooks the best ceviche on the island.”
Jamie hesitated. “Thank you for the offer, Miguel, but I’m not sure my schedule allows for?—”
Suddenly, an idea sparked in her head. “Actually, I think I might be able to make some time. Maybe tomorrow night?”
Miguel’s face broke into a wide grin. “Wonderful! Meet me here at sunset. I won’t be disappointed.” With a wink and a final tip of his hat, he turned and sauntered away, his laughter echoing across the water.
She glanced towards Jess, who had already risen from her crate and was stalking towards her with a fire in her eyes that had nothing to do with the setting sun.
Jess reached her, stopping just out of earshot of any lingering crew members.
“Who was that?”
“Just a local fisherman, Miguel. He was telling me some stories about the island. Also offered to take me out for dinner sometime.”
Jess narrowed her eyes, unconvinced. “Dinner, huh? Sounds friendly.”
Jamie shrugged, playing up the nonchalance. “He cooks the best ceviche apparently. Thought it might be a fun way to experience the local culture.”
“Well, have fun,” she muttered, her voice devoid of warmth.
“Actually, there’s enough ceviche for two. They say the sunsets here are amazing. Want to join?”
“Forget it. I wouldn’t want to cramp your style.”
“Are you jealous?” Jamie teased, enjoying the flustered look on Jess’ face.
Jess scoffed. “Jealous? Please. I know you’re not into men.”