The Spanish Love Deception

Waiting to check in at the airport, Lina assumes Aaron decided not to come. She wrestles with how to proceed when she hears him call her name. She turns and throws her arms around him. Stunned at her reaction, Aaron realizes Lina thought he wasn’t going to show. He chastises her for not believing him.

As they walk toward their terminal, Aaron notices that Lina’s two massive suitcases weigh her down. He throws one bag over his shoulder, so she can walk normally. Lina informs him that she has three changes of clothes as well as backup outfits and six pairs of shoes. She is amazed by Aaron’s one small bag.

As they walk toward their gate, Lina reviews her research on Aaron. A few years earlier, he seemed destined for a football career—but for an unknown reason, he quit playing. She tries to figure out how they will be able to fake their love. For the first time, she refers to them as “we” (201).

On the flight to Spain, Aaron manages to upgrade them to First Class, where Lina eats a delicious chocolate cake. Aaron wipes chocolate off her cheek and puts it in his mouth—much to her delight.

Lina quizzes Aaron, making him repeat the names and dynamics of her family.