Man Of My Dreams

By C. Hoffman

Gaiana and Rosie Castillo are two sisters that aspire to take their artistic careers to the next level, but emotions from their past make them question whether they deserve to take the next steps. Intuition has always run in the family, so it is following this feeling that their life takes a turn. Now, Gaiana has received an opportunity of a lifetime, one that she can’t bare to refuse. However, she has never been more nervous; after all, being away from her family is something she has never done. Meanwhile, her rest gets constantly disrupted by compelling dreams of a stranger that she must learn more about. As the two women follow their own paths, they must make certain decisions to have it all- a successful career, a perfect man, and all their dreams fulfilled.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Lulu.com
• Release date: Mar 25, 2021
• ISBN: 9781667197647

Book preview

ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

PROLOGUE

T

wenty-four-year-old Gaiana Castillo was an artist full of dreams. She’s been painting for five years, but unfortunately, she never showcased any of her artwork, even though she worked at the local gallery. It never bothered her. The positive energy at work helped her to find purpose.

But today was a turning point in her life. She received some surprising news that she needed to share with her sister Rosie, and her mother, Rosalyn.  That morning, while sitting in her boss’s office, the director of the gallery offered her a fantastic opportunity.

Funding was available for her to travel for two months to foreign museums and finally show her work to the world. She could promote her masterpieces and flaunt her talents. Paris, London, Buenos Aires, and Santiago were some of the places she would visit.

Being a family with incredible intuition, for the past week, the three women had felt a definite change coming. They were tight-knit, and if something terrible happened to one, the other’s felt a chill throughout their bodies. Still, of course, none could predict which family member would receive the lucky benefits.

Her good news was something special; after all, Gaiana finally felt as if she was advancing in her artistic life. But she wasn’t sure if her family would see it that way as she had never traveled alone, and she knew her mother would continuously worry. And she didn’t w ant any fears or negativity to ruin her goals of starting a possible career; she just wanted emotional support and blessings from people close to her heart.

Wanting to avoid any adverse reaction from her family and show them that she could be more responsible and independent, she had gone over plans and schedules with her boss.

Her first flight got scheduled for the following Monday; all she had to do was pick up her plane tickets. Her paintings were being shipped to the first location in Paris, where she would be spending a couple of weeks and go to two events before moving on to London.

Now, she had the titanic-sized task of explaining everything to her mom and sister. She wasn’t sure where or how to begin. She held the phone in her hands and tried to dial a few times, but hung up.

Realizing how immature she was acting, Gaiana dialed the number and put the phone to her ear. As it rang, her mind went over a few conversation starters she could use. She wasn’t sure if she should blurt out the news or gradually tell them she was traveling alone. She imagined her mother giving a few words of advice and dreaded the upcoming discussion.

Hello? Rosie asked as she answered the phone. She could imagine her sister smiling while waiting for the response of the caller.

Hi. I have good news to share with you and mom. Can you put me on speaker? She asked with a shaky voice; if confidence was a goal, she was spectacularly failing.

Sure. She heard her sister say, then listened to her steps as she moved around the house, and the quiet ‘mom, Gaiana’s on the phone.’

She then felt a rush of nervousness, Hello, Gaiana, how are you? Rosalyn asked. Her mother’s sweet voice was, for the first time, a trigger for dread instead of calm.

Good. I have something to tell you guys, She answered as she took a deep breath and continued. I got an offer at work today, one that I was unable to refuse. I’m going to travel for a couple of months and promote my art overseas. The director at the gallery told me that they finally had funding and that they will pay for the hotel and accommodations. I’ll travel alone, but each place will have security, so I’ll be safe, mom. Believe me.

After what felt like an eternity, but were only a few seconds, her sister answered, Wow, that’s amazing, yet shocking.

For a few minutes, she went over the pros and cons while her family absorbed some info; she stated that her projects were finally considered important enough to be showcased and that she could find potential buyers. Her items would be in the spotlight; it would be about her art and not for her to display other artist’s work.

She made sure to remind her mother and sister that this opportunity wouldn’t arrive again. She couldn’t refuse simply because of fear. Gaiana admitted that the trip was spontaneous, and traveling long-distances was new to her, but she was adamant, she was going, and nothing would stop her.

I think you should use the funds, but take your time to travel. Plan correctly and then venture abroad. That way, you can be discovered without being overwhelmed. As expected, her mom’s answer was to try and keep her close by.

No, mom, I will travel. I promise to stay out of harm’s way. Everything will be fine. I just wanted to let you both know where I’ll be going. I’m visiting France, England, Argentina, and Chile. She said with a confident voice – even if she didn’t feel as sure.

She knew that it would be difficult to reassure her family as she fought through her anxiety, so trying to convince her mom that the idea wasn’t bad, Gaiana went over more details of the trip. She declined her mom’s offer to accompany her on it.

Gaiana didn’t know the outcome of the journey, but she didn’t need anyone to hold her hand. She was an adult!

Rosie and I just want to get everything straight and understand what the plans are. We want you to be safe. You honestly haven’t done anything on your own. You also haven’t traveled far without the family. Her mom said, now sounding uncertain.

That was good; she knew that it meant her mom was caving, so before her mom found strength again, she needed to finish this conversation.

Gaiana agreed that she never did anything on her own. She knew that she still needed to achieve goals and be less immature, but this trip was the perfect opportunity to do just that.

I understand, but I’ll be fine. Alright you guys, please come over in the morning so that I can get up. You know that I never wake up to the alarm, and I have to make it to the gallery to pick up some things. she said.

Okay, we’ll be there early. We love you. Said her sister, knowing what Gaiana was trying to do, ending the conversation.

I love you, too, she said.

She hung up and was relieved that the call ended without drama. She thought that one of them would vent a few fears, cry, scream with anger, or do all of the above. Now, she could relax without any weight in her shoulders. This was the beginning of a great adventure.

CHAPTER 1

Gaiana

S

he sifted through the clean laundry to check the condition of the items. For thirty minutes, a mound of unsuitable clothing grew, and realizing the end of the options neared, Gaiana placed the pile in a hamper and moved on to the closet. The choices there seemed minimal. She was dead set on making a good impression.

This won’t cut it, she thought and decided to go shopping when the clock read 3:30. There was enough time to shop.

Somewhat starving and hoping for a spontaneous night out with her favorite girls, Gaiana took the smartphone and started dialing.

Hello? She heard her sister say.

Hey, Rosie. Are you and mom busy? Gaiana asked, throwing herself on the bed and looking at the ceiling.

Not really. Why?

I have nothing to wear for the trip. Well, I do, but nothing appropriate. Do you want to go out? She hoped they would accept and come, as the idea of going alone was not pleasant at all. 

Let’s see if mom’s up to it, Rosie answered.

She listened as her sister asked her mom if she wanted to go out, the excitement was evident on her voice, which brought a smile to Gaiana’s face. Rosie was a shopaholic. And, incited by her sister, she also heard her mother’s enthusiasm in the background. Then, Rosie got back on the line.

I know a place where we can go. When can you be ready? Gaiana asked at once, containing a giggle.

But I haven’t said yes yet! Rosie spat, even though she could hear the humor in her voice.

"Sis, we’ve known each other forever and come from the same womb. When have you say no to a shopping trip?" Gaiana couldn’t contain the giggle now, turning around on her bed and putting her right cheek on the pillow.

Hey! There has been a couple of times where I’ve said no… right? Her sister mumbled; her mom’s laughter could be overheard.

Gaiana thought about an area to eat, her mind automatically going to a Mexican restaurant that opened at the mall and reported excellent ratings. The establishment had a romantic and traditional atmosphere, with a dance floor, beautiful artwork, gourmet dishes, and live entertainment.

We’ll be ready in a few minutes. Mom claimed the bathroom and has an outfit picked out.

Okay. I have to get ready too, so there is enough time. Gaiana said as she stood up from her bed and picked a decent outfit to wear.

Okay. See you soon. Rosie chirped.

Bye. And the line went out.

After half an hour of hustling, she got delayed looking for twisted hoop earrings. She wore knee-high boots, a tan skirt with burgundy accents, and a soft beige belt that complimented her figure. A dark tunic with red ribbons that laced up the sides and a light layer of foundation and eyeshadow completed her look. Satisfied with her appearance, she called Rosie to say she was on the way.

Walking to the door, she grabbed a jacket and the keys to the jeep.

She turned down the road. The weather was sunny, for now, and as the desert climate was unpredictable, she prayed it stayed that way.

When she arrived at her mom’s house, Gaiana stopped the vehicle but waited inside, knowing that they heard the gravel crunching on the driveway and would come outside at any moment. And, like clockwork, five minutes later, they went out of the house and hopped in the car. Smiling, she turned the car on again and headed downtown.

You guys look nice, Gaiana said.

So do you, Miss Travel Adventurer. Her sister replied.

Gaiana saw her mom winking at her from the rearview and was touched by how brave she was. After all, she was conscious of her mom’s concerns regarding her trip. She looked much younger than her forty-three years old; her mother was, without a doubt, beautiful and very healthy. And had plenty of energy to burn.

Rosie was gorgeous too. She had on hip-hugging blue jeans, a white peasant shirt with turquoise embroidered flowers, and tan open-toe sandals. Her hair was arranged into a loose fish braid that her sister had perfected with practice.

I wasn’t going to the mall today, but my wardrobe sucks, Gaiana declared.

Your clothes are fine, Gaiana, Rosalyn said while rolling her eyes.

"Yeah, right. This is the only nice outfit, Mom." She knew that she was acting like a petulant child, but the truth was that this trip had her nervous, and she wanted everything to be perfect.

I like your clothes, sweetheart, you’ve always had a good sense of style. Her mom replied with a warm tone.

You can buy some in Paris! Rosie said suddenly, excitement noticeable in her voice.

If I had more cash, I would, Rosie.

The reality of the situation was that her trip would end up being very expensive, and even if the Gallery was taking care of most of her expenses, traveling through Europe and part of Latin America will take a toll out of her savings.

So, where to, first? Her mom asked with a growling stomach that made both of the girls laugh.

"Do you think I would take you shopping with an empty stomach, mom? Let’s eat. I want to try Corazon de la Sierra." Gaiana uttered with a smile on her face.

Yes! I’ve wanted to go there all week. Rosie replied and clapped her hands once.

Isn’t that the new Mexican one close to the mall? It sounds good, and I’m starving girls. Their mom added while they were reaching Main Street.

Gaiana pulled up to a stoplight that took forever to turn when suddenly a truck next to them turned, and a vehicle full of guys took the spot.

The first ones she noticed were two incredibly handsome men with dark brown eyes and delicious caramel-colored skin that looked like identical twins. The other guys were almost as attractive. One had a fair complexion and baby blue eyes, with wavy blonde hair and a muscular tone, and when he smiled, she saw his perfect teeth.

The last man looked older than the rest, but sophisticated, with a distinguished and intellectual air. He had flowing black hair, sexy sideburns, and perfect lips, and wore designer glasses and casual clothes.

Wanting to make their mom blush, the girls flirted and whistled at them, getting a reaction from the men, who laughed and waved. And when the driver said hello to her mom, Gaiana and Rosie exploded in laughter as Rosalyn spun and glared at her daughters, her cheeks red from embarrassment.

The driver delivered a piece of paper that Rosie grabbed with a massive smile on her face, and then the streetlight changed, and Gaiana slowly drew forward.

With a giddy smirk, she took the apparent phone number from her sister’s fingers and waved it in the air.

Someone has a da-a-ate! she sang.

Would you girls stop? Her mom asked, wanting to look calm and poised in a typical Rosalyn behavior. I hope neither of you dials that number. It’s probably fake. I bet they’re nice, but that approach was lame.

Yeah, Rosie said, looking in the direction that the car went. She still had a smile on her face but didn’t want to bother her mom anymore.

Your dad had the nicest voice. When singing or playing the guitar, there was no need for a pick-up line or a number thrown at you on the street. The girls’ father had died eight years earlier, and their mom was still refusing to move on.

Being a musician meant performing for a living, and on his usual gig at a party, a drunk man started shooting during a fight. A stray bullet hit their father in the liver.

A lot of pain saturated their lives after hearing about the accident that took him away. That was the first night Gaiana, Rosalyn, and Rosie simultaneously experienced a stomach twisting, time-stopping pain. Then, the women knew they shared a special kind of bond.

The girls made an effort to keep his memory alive, acquiring his talent and characteristics. Still, when they saw Rosalyn’s distant look, they couldn’t avoid thinking that the incredible woman that brought them into this world deserved a second chance at love.

The girls were quiet on the remaining ride to the restaurant.

How do I look? Gaiana asked Rosie when they parked in front of the restaurant.

Good, and me? The younger of the sisters replied while she was checking her makeup with a small mirror.

Perfect.

Inside, the lights were dim, and the surroundings gave the interior a warm feeling. On stage, a stunning woman was singing; the words were captivating everyone’s attention.

The three women sat close to the musicians, as they always did when going to a place that had live music, and they waited for the server while enjoying some appetizers. Soon, he arrived with three glasses of water and took their orders.

The woman sang the final notes of her song, and promptly enough, the waiter was back with their food.

The group began eating, as the next band stepped on stage. A few men playing the rhythm of Latin blues accompanied the lead vocalist.

Standing up and going to the bar to ask for some drinks, Gaiana and Rosie heard laughter. They both held back the need to giggle while they looked for the source, and when the girls found it, embarrassment and shyness invaded them, as they spotted the men from Main Street. All four were at the opposite end of the counter, ordering a round of ale.

CHAPTER 2

Rosie

W

hile Gaiana moved quickly to the bathroom with a hand covering her face, Rosie slowed down on her way to the bar and kept out of sight, leaning an elbow on the counter and hoping that the men hadn’t seen her. She noticed that they were talking animatedly with the bartender as if they were familiar with him. The man excused himself from them and came to serve her.

Hi, what can I get for you?

Rosie faced him, and the bartender smiled, revealing a cute dimple that wasn’t too big. He continued drying a glass as she ordered the drinks.

I need a Barracuda, a Long Island ice tea, and a Mad Cow, she said.

The man served the drinks as she saw the group from Main Street walking to the pool table. One of them lingered for a moment, tapped on the wood, and whispered something to the bartender who nodded to him before he went to where his friends were.

Busted! She thought as she saw the man smiling at her while he walked to meet with his group. She knew she had been a little nosy and blushed, looking down after getting caught.

Just a couple of minutes later, she heard the bartender addressing her, and when Rosie lifted her eyes, noticed that the man brought her the drinks that she ordered, plus an extra Piña Colada.

The bill is already paid ma’am, he said as he loaded the glasses on a tray and called for a waiter. Rosie thanked both of them and followed the second to her table, where she presumed her sister was already at after sneaking out, the coward.

This band is fantastic, and they take requests, Gaiana mentioned as soon as Rosie came into view, her voice was a little higher than usual, which let her know that she was nervous.

"Those guys from earlier are here," Rosie said as a response, staring directly into her sister’s eyes.

Really? Well, apparently, her sister was going to allege dementia and do as if she never saw them.

Yes, and one bought the drinks for us.

Rosie sat and listened to the musicians. When the lead singer ended the song, he said they would accept requests from the crowd, just as Gaiana noted, and a brave woman suggested a cumbia. The band agreed and began playing the tune, which made the woman return to the dance floor with a smile.

Oh, there are your friends, Rosie, Gaiana said suddenly, winking her left eye at her.

Rosie slightly turned around and saw the men roaming, going toward a corner very close to the dance floor, where large vases stood filled with red roses. Her cheeks burned when she saw each guy grabbing a bud and coming to the table.

The twins were the first to arrive, with the blonde one not far behind. She could feel her heartbeat rising when the men grinned and handed each of them one of the buds.

Thanks, Her and her sister said, in unison, and Rosie could hear the thank you that her mom murmured.

Are you ladies having fun? One twin asked.

If you need anything, don’t be afraid to ask. The other said.

The blonde man asked her mom to dance, and she accepted the offer. Their mother tried not to be rude on such a fantastic night, and if you added that she loved the cumbia, it was a win-win for all of them.

Rosie turned around and smiled at Gaiana, elated to see their mother having some excitement after so long, and after raising her eyebrows twice, Gaiana returned her attention to one of the cute twins.

To talk to you instead of the manager? Why is that? her sister asked.

Our father is the owner, but he’s in the back with the cooks. We have to keep an eye up front. My name is Diego, by the way, and yours is?

I’m Gaiana, and this is my sister, Rosie.

Hi, She said, still a little bit embarrassed to be talking to them. Her focus went to the other twin when he stuck out his hand and introduced himself.

My name is Antonio, the better-looking twin brother of Diego. He introduced himself with a huge smile over his face. Rosie could notice that this guy was the funny kind. Would you like to dance?

Without overthinking it, Rosie took his palm, impressed with how softly he held hers to touch her elbow soon after. And when he kissed her hand, she beamed.

Yes, of course.

As they were moving to the dance floor, Rosie glanced at her mom, who was still dancing and smiling, and when they reached an empty spot, she placed her hands on Antonio’s shoulders while he cradled her hips. They moved in unison, the rhythm soon guiding them through the floor.

What do you do for a living or fun? Antonio whispered into Rosie’s ear. She felt the brush of his words and the warmth of his breath hit the side of her head, giving her goosebumps.

I’m trying to become a professional dancer and open my own school.

Really? That’s nice; I’m sure you will. My days are very different. During the day, I help to run our pecan ranch; the nuts sell well around here, but we have clients all over, and after that, I’m here every night. He replied, still whispering every word very close to her ear.

Sounds cool, and the fact that you’re helping your dad it’s nice. I like it, Rosie said.

Thanks, I also like that you want to open a school. It says a lot that you’re thinking about the children, you know? Antonio said as he guided her through a spin. Oh, look at that! Our siblings look good together. He singsonged, watching Diego flirt with Gaiana.

Yeah, too bad she’s leaving very soon, Rosie mentioned between giggles after seeing her sister’s obvious attraction to the other twin.

Leaving? That sucks. Is she moving away or returning home?

Oh, no! No! She’s just taking some paintings to foreign galleries. She hastily replied.

She’s an artist too! It runs in the family then. That’s interesting; I’ve heard that being a painter is tough, but it can be an impressive career. Antonio said with a pensive expression on his face.

Gaiana is amazing, she’s extremely talented, and I’m not saying this just because she’s my sister, Rosie added, the pride could be easily noticed by the tone of her voice.

The song ended, and they went to the table. When they arrived, Gaiana and Diego were still deep in conversation, throwing smiles at each other.

Do you want to move to a bigger booth? Antonio whispered closely to her ear again after seeing that the table where the girls sat was too small.

Yes, let’s get the drinks. I’ll let everyone know. Rosie replied as she stood up again and grabbed her mom’s attention with a raised hand.

After a few minutes, their mom arrived at the booth with her dance partner, which she introduced as Jonathan, and all six spent an hour just talking and getting to know one another. When they agreed to call it a night, Antonio and Diego extended an invitation to the women, saying that anytime they were free, they were welcome to come and have free drinks.

Did you have fun, Mom? Gaiana asked when they were sitting at the jeep.

Yes. Johnathan danced well, and he is a nice young man. His mother just opened a flower shop on Main… I may stop there for some seeds. She said. And no funny business girls, he’s too young for me.

Come on, mom; you’re young and gorgeous, and what is age but just a stupid number when it comes to love? Rosie said with a smile, knowing that her mom would blush and end the conversation quickly.

Who said that I liked him like that? Stop saying nonsense. Gaia darling, what are you planning to buy? was her mom’s answer,

Gaiana pulled the jeep out of the lot and towards the mall to the most significant shopping spring of her short life.

CHAPTER 3

Gaiana

W

hen Gaiana went home, she dreaded having to remove her makeup and change, wanting to just flop on the bed and crash. She made her way inside and felt the wave of exhaustion hit her as soon as her eyes connected with the mattress.

She set the bags down and kicked off her shoes. Afterward, she left to wipe her face sloppily and change with the same amount of care, directing herself straight to her pillows. Lying there, a sudden worry replaced the drowsiness. 

Gaiana began to wonder and fret about the trip, exaggerated worries flooding her mind, each worse than the last. All the thoughts she avoided earlier came in at once.

She didn’t know how to prepare for this kind of journey, as her mom had carefully planned every trip. And even if part of her realized it was absurd, that preparing for this trip was nothing out of this world, Gaiana couldn’t convince the other part of her brain of this irrationality.

So, aware that she wouldn’t sleep for a while, she grabbed a robe and went to make tea.

When she had the steaming cup on her hands, the warmth seeping through her skin, calming her down, she sat on her favorite oversized chair and tried to focus on the positive aspects of the trip. Well, the fact that she even had one was already the most prominent.

After so many years of hard work, her dreams could come true. Her father would have been so proud of her, and she couldn’t put into words, or murals, the feeling she was having. Her appreciation was immense.

Gaiana’s mind soon traveled to her work, which inevitably took her to the breathtaking man of her dreams. The one she was able to capture on the canvases.

He was recurrent in her dreams every night, almost a full year filled with her travels to the lush, mysterious jungle where he dwelled, always accompanied by a quiet, regal, and fierce jaguar. Its eyes were like emeralds that could see into her soul.

At first, Gaiana caught glimpses of visions that weren’t consistent, the only visible image being a wall of vegetation with no one around or the stranger’s face with no apparent location. The man’s characteristics were flawless; his cheekbones were high, and his jaw was strong. And the feeling she had every time she woke up was always the same. Longing. She wanted to reach him, touch him, smell him, feel him. She craved to drown herself in him.

She didn’t know how to link both visions until he appeared out of nowhere once.

There she was, walking through the vegetation at night, hearing the birds and other animals that she wouldn’t know the name of - but that strangely gave her no fear; - the sound of water getting closer with every step she took, and soon, she came to a small waterfall.

And there he was. The moonlight illuminated his body, and drops of water were hitting his skin as he sat on a close rock. She noticed that his eyes were closed, and his face was directed to the sky, as