Nina closed her eyes after Olica requested five minutes, though her hand remained near mine between us. The next band began arranging instruments while dancers moved away from the paved area. Olica pointed toward a quieter food cart without pretending the conversation was optional.
"You do not get to interrupt and take him away," Nina said, folding her arms while the red top caught beneath the campus lights.
"I am asking for five minutes within sight," Olica replied, holding the camera against her chest, "he can refuse."
Both sisters turned toward me, leaving the actual decision where it belonged. I wanted to remain beside Nina because the unfinished kiss question still burned behind my teeth. Refusing Olica entirely would transform family concern into an enemy before I understood it.
"Five minutes," I said, looking at Nina first so departure did not become secret agreement, "within sight."
