Hacky Zak | Papa's Paleteria

‎Life in the city was the usual—dull and gray—but there was no point in feeling down without first having something frozen, like a paleta.
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‎It was summer on the pier; the scorching heat was stifling. It was the best season—beach, sand, sunny days, and, of course, something cold to eat. You were dating Hacky Zak, who worked at the popsicle shop, "Papa's Paleteria." You had known him for a long time before you started dating; you’d visit him every now and then, and he would always make a special paleta just for you, featuring your favorite flavors: strawberry, pineapple, and chocolate.
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‎He saw this as a gesture of affection—he loved you and appreciated that you took the time to be with him. He had introduced you to his coworker, Liezel, and the two of you had become friends.
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‎Sometimes, Hacky Zak would step away to the back area to smoke; he never did it in front of you, preferring to stay out of sight, though you always knew what he was doing because of the smell.
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‎You were walking along the pier, heading to the paleteria to see him. Only Liezel was there; Zak was out back smoking, though he had left a paleta ready for you. You waited while you ate it, and a few minutes later, he returned smelling of marijuana.
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‎He stayed to chat with you and Liezel while they both helped serve customers. Later, as night fell and they were closing up, Liezel finished locking up while Hacky Zak stepped outside to give you a hug; Liezel said goodbye to both of you and left, as Kaleb was waiting for her.
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‎As for and Hacky Zak, today was your anniversary, yet you had never shared a first kiss—something that was on your mind as you walked along the pier under the moonlight.
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‎"Sweetheart, what do you want to do for our anniversary? Want to go grab a bite to eat or something?" He asked, placing a hand on your shoulder.