"It's just three steps, open the door, and you just walk right up to Imelda and say it. Bluntly! Just put it out there! You know, like she would. Straight forward. She hates small talk." Héctor's heart was about the thump out of his chest. It didn't help when he realized a neighbor had been staring at him walk in circles in front of his house.
He couldn't help himself. He paced round and round avoiding the front door to where, if he went any longer, the bottoms of his shoes would surely wear thin. But, he kept on acting out different scenarios on how to break it to the love of his life the road was calling his name. He had this very unexpected, but absolutely amazing, their lives will never be the same, kind of news.
"Remember, don't make a fuss, she hates when you make a fuss over things that don't warrant…well, fussing. Or it could go badly and she not be in favor of this and she do the warranted fussing…No, no no, it will all go just fine, fine. Come on, Héctor, you can do this, just turn around, walk through the door and talk to her." Though there was no trace of heat in the air, the sweat was beading at a rapid pace at his brow. "Count yourself down. Simple, just count and go…three…two…one.."
"Papá! You are home!" The front door had swung wide open til it nearly hit the house, and Coco's small voice quickly carried through the crisp night air right into her Papa's ears, prompting him to get this show on the road. He turned only to see his daughter running as fast as she could, her arms stretched as far as they could reach with her only goal of leaping into her Papa's arms.
"Of course, I am home! Where else would I be?" In one slick move, he managed to wipe the nervous sweat and worry from his face to scoop up his Coco without anyone batting an eye.
"My thoughts exactly." Imelda followed close behind their daughter having taken only a few steps out of the doorway bringing her, visibly agitated, self more into the moonlight.
"Héctor, how long have you been out here? We have been waiting for you." The irritation rang clear in her voice, as well.
"Oh, it hasn't been long. Just a minute or so. You know, taking some time to admire the stars and the moon's friendly face." He took the small child and adjusted her more comfortably on his hip. His nose caught a whiff of the wonderful aroma escaping from the opened door. "Let us not waste anymore time out here. Come on, let's get inside, yes? Coco, have you been cooking again?" Héctor could tell with each click of Imelda's boot on the porch, he was walking on eggshells, but maybe playing the 'hide behind your adorable daughter' card would buy him some valuable time. It had a nice track record of working 99% of the time and tonight he was banking on that last one percent to shine through.
He planted a loving peck on Imelda's cheek as he flew a giggling Coco into the house. Imelda flipped the wooden spoon between her fingers then allowed it to fall into her palm, as the lingering touch of the innocent kiss poked at her curiosity. But, seeing how happy the two were, it didn't take long for her annoyance of her husband's tardiness to disappear.
The meal went about as it did each night. Joined by Oscar and Felipe, the family filled their plates as best they could, each making sure Coco was assured a full belly.
God blessed the food before them, they ate, discussed the highs and lows of their day, and everything between. Of course, their time together could not go without some small joking between the proud uncles and their niece. She was getting rather good at catching on to their trickery. She was even beginning to teach them a thing or two which delighted Imelda. It was nice for the twins to have a taste of their own medicine every once in a while.
As much as Imelda wanted to tidy up when the last bite was swallowed, it never failed Coco would quickly ask her Papá to play her a song. As anyone could guess, it was never just one. The night usually called for at least three, maybe four depending on how long Héctor and Imelda wanted to draw out their little girls' fatigue which she was particularly good at ignoring. Plus, Imelda would never turn down a chance to swing her child into a twirl and sing with her husband.
Besides, dancing feet and a filled belly always ensured a quick slumber for the toddler.
Imelda wasted no time getting started on her last chore once Coco could no longer control her yawns and her balanced resembled that of a poor drunk doing his best to make his way home from a night at the cantina. Héctor hoisted the sleepy girl into the air, and walked her up the stairs. But, as heavy eyed as she was, Coco seemed to easily coerce just one more lullaby out of her Papá before her mind rested for the night. And, of course, Héctor would adhere to her small wish.
Imelda cleaned and hummed along to the song coming from the floor above her. Soon the soft melody could be heard more clearly as Héctor came down the stairs, continuing the song by tapping his feet to meet her in the kitchen.
Once there, he dragged his tired body over to the nearest chair at the table, catching it before the cracked leg gave way. He heaved a loud sigh which blew away the steam from his nightly cup of tea seeping in front of him, still too hot even to sip.
He sat taking in the silence for just a moment, letting the day escape from him. Imelda was quiet, too, but she couldn't help but be rhythmic as she waltzed back and forth putting everything in its place. She glided in smooth swift motions without missing a beat.
With each clanging of each dish she cleaned and put away, to Héctor, it was like a clock ticking down for the real show. Soon the dishes would be done, the table cleared, Imelda's apron would rest on the rusted hook by the back door, all signaling the curtain to rise cueing him in that it was showtime. As he gripped tighter to his cup, his palms began to sweat.
"You know, Coco is beginning to catch on to you coming home late." She never turned to look at him, but carried on with the task in front of her. "I am running out of excuses to tell her."
Héctor brought his cup quickly up to his mouth to give a small blow before taking a sip. "She's a smart one. But, it was just another long day…You know how it goes."
She knew exactly what he meant. The days in Santa Cecilia seemed to be lingering lately. Daylight hours longer and longer with hardly anything to show for a hard days work. All while at night, all she had to do was blink her own tired eyes and it was daylight and it all started over again.
"Oh, mi amor, I do." She twisted up the sopping wet dish rag and let the luke warm water drain from it, before slapping it on the counter. "I managed to finished tailoring Jorge's mariachi suit. How I did it with Coco running around, God only knows. I am a day late with it, so I hope he doesn't mind."
"I didn't even know he had a suit to tailor." Héctor said as he listened to his wife tell about her day. These were the stories she didn't bother telling over their meal. Her tailoring and hours of sewing never interested Oscar or Felipe. Some days, it barely interested her.
"I do have some news for you. You remember Marta?"
"Ole Luca's wife, yes. I haven't seen him in a while. They well?"
"Ha! You could say that. They are having another baby."
Héctor's eyes bugged out as he slapped at his knee is disbelief. One would have thought it was him receiving this news of his own growing family.
"And this makes?"
"Number seven." Imelda couldn't help but make a pity filled face at the expense of her friend, but also a yearning for it to be her own news. Coco was a wonderful child, but she was enough for the young mother to handle.
"Busy man! Explains why I haven't seen him." She could see him waggle those eyebrows of his over the rim of his cup as he made the crude joke.
Imelda smirked rolling her eyes at his bar humor. "Héctor, stop it! This is wonderful news!"
Imelda became a little quieter, and her words were rushed. "She just brought over several of her dresses this afternoon for me to let out for her."
Héctor could see she was a tad nervous as she turned and chewed at her bottom lip. "And, that's a bad thing? That should keep you busy for a little while. The extra money will come in handy." He questioned trying to figure out the reason for her reservedness. But, also taking the opportunity to plant a seed here and there.
"I didn't charge her."
Héctor couldn't help but let his head hang low showing his disapproval for her actions, or lack there of. Imelda tried to brace herself for the lecture she knew deserved, but she wouldn't give him the chance. "They are just scraping by, and Héctor, before you say anything, I know I should have gotten some pay out of it, but I just couldn't. She has helped me with Coco plenty and never asked for anything in return. But—"
Héctor knew he had every right to be mad. His half filled plate tonight was evident of that. But honestly, it was like God was shining down on him as she spoke. They needed money, he had an idea for them to get money. It was like a miracle from above.
"We are all sharing this burden, that is for sure. It is alright, mi amor." Though his empty pockets screamed otherwise, the deed was already done.
Imelda was well ahead of him, and had already prepared her resolution. She knew she would have to compensate somehow.
"Well, good news, I already have a plan to make up for it. I can always see if Señor Tomas has another suit for me to take in, or if Sergio needs any extra help. Though I don't know if I could ask him to pay me either. He is thinking of maybe selling the cantina." She let out a long sigh as she spied another few dishes she missed. Oscar and Felipe never put their dish where she asked them.
She allowed her fingers to glide around the smooth rim of the plates and grew quiet again. "I guess, in a way, things will get a little easier when the twins leave. Two less mouths to feed. Less dishes to wash." Then her voice trailed off.
Yes, the twins were about to go on an adventure of their own. An event everyone knew was coming, but no one really spoke of in front of Imelda. Though she played tough and like she didn't care too much, Imelda had it down to the hour Oscar and Felipe would be walking out the door and on to a train out of Santa Cecilia. Everything they had worked for, and she had done for them was paying off. Imelda had bravely taken the step into her mama's place and made it happen for her brothers.
But, the weeks leading up to this was a bittersweet time in the Rivera household. A proud older sister thrilled to see her brothers making something of themselves, and their family equally proud, but she still wanted to keep a lovingly close eye their way. Oscar and Felipe could see right past her facade. Hence why they had revved up their teasing and taught Coco some of their favorites to do in the mean time while they were away.
"But, we are not going to talk about that now. So, your day? I am all ears."
The moment he had been waiting for and dreading was right in front of him. The stage was set, the lights on him, all he had to do was follow the script. But, like any nervous performer stepping out on stage, catching the eye of his audience, he froze just when he went to say the line bouncing on his tongue.
The drawn-out silence had caught Imelda's attention.
"Héctor, you okay?" She asked as she ticked up an eyebrow. "You've been quiet most of the evening."
"Si, si…uh..just Oscar and Felipe leaving has me thinking is all."
Imelda took the small stack of plates and began placing each in its desired spot. The twins and Héctor had gotten closer over the years, and she knew it was hitting Héctor hard, too.
"Oh, how so?" She said sympathetically.
He gripped at the back of his bed tussled hair, a finger catching on a small knot yanking him from his improvisation back to the script he swore he would stick to.
"Just what's out there, things they will get to see, places they will get to go. You know, just everything."
"Uh huh, I suppose. Knowing them, they better stick to what we talked about. Who knows what trouble they could get into roaming about unsupervised. Remind me to talk with those two again just so we are all on the same page what is expected of them."
Héctor hesitated a bit. "You ever think about that, Imelda? For us? I mean, Santa Cecilia hasn't changed in years. Same ole this, same ole that."
Imelda let out a small laugh at what she thought was a joke. The thought of leaving? Coco was so young, their family had fallen into a comfortable rhythm. If Héctor thought letting out a few dresses for free would hurt them, what money did they have to uproot their family just for better views.
"No, mi amor, I haven't given it much thought. I have too many other things that have to occupy my mind. Besides, Santa Cecilia may have quieted down the past few years, but it has always been good to us. Pass me Coco's bowl." As she reached for the empty bowl, her hand grazed his. His hand had a nervous sweat to which struck her as odd. Her curiosity peaked again.
"Um, did you ever say where you were this evening?"
Héctor snatched his hand back and wiped it along his shirt tail. "Met Ernesto at Sergios. He had quite the morning."
"Ha! Ernesto always his mind into something, doesn't he? Anything that would interest me?"
"It will actually. We talked about performing…out on the road again."
A weight lifted off his chest though it had only been resting there a few hours. As the words left his mouth, the relief he felt was enormous. He cracked a small smile showing just the edge of his teeth as he anxiously waiting to hear exactly what Imelda would say.
Imelda on the other hand, had a look of shock. This was not the story she thought she was about to hear. She was expecting another father was after Ernesto for his shenanigans, or he was trying to convince Señor Tomas for a raise that never came his way…anything but what she just heard. She stood facing her freshly cleaned counter for a few moments, gathering her thoughts, finding her own words on what to say. Traveling was something neither of them had spoken of since Coco came into their lives.
Then again, it was something she knew couldn't have been completely off the table. And any little bit would help.
"The road, hmmmm…." The pieces of the night were scattered, but she was slowly putting it all together, slowly but surely. However, knowing that the suggestion was Ernesto's doing made her blood simmer.
"I wish I could say I am surprised, but..it's been so long since you have traveled. I suppose a few days wouldn't hurt." Leaving just long enough to scratch the itch, she could allow that. She was poised and collected as she sat satisfied with the decision.
Héctor, on the other hand, was like a statue staring intently at her, watching and listening to her justify her blessing aloud. Too bad this reaction was only over an assumption.
Damnit.
"So, since Ernesto is involved, I am sure he has it all planned out. For which weekend should we prepare? I think we have enough put away for you a train ticket."
Héctor's heart began to race again and his pulse quicken, so much so he swore he could see it throbbing through his skin.
He brought his praying hands together, hoping God would see and hear. "Well, you see, Imelda it's more like,—" He felt himself want to talk in circles or freeze again, but he couldn't drag this out any longer, especially seeing the suspicion begin to creep onto her face. "Here Imelda, forget the dishes and come sit down. I am sure your feet could use a rest." He reached over and lightly touched her lower back, trying to guide her toward the open chair.
"Héctor, is this what is going on? Why you are acting so odd? You really think I would be upset over you leaving a few days?" She took the rag and playfully swatted at his hand. She gently cupped his red cheeks. "I can walk by myself." Like the gentlemen he was, he brought the chair from under the table inviting her to sit.
Once seated, Imelda could finally concentrate on his flushed face. He was a puddle of nerves. The kind of nerves that ran sacked his body right before a performance. With the sight of him, she felt her heart begin to pick up pace and she gripped at the rag a bit tighter.
Héctor would have never been worried to tell her of an upcoming trip. Unless this wasn't going to be one of his usual ventures.
"Its more than a few days?" She hesitantly questioned. Her eyebrow ticking upward again.
"Um..si." He said quietly under his breath has he raised his thumb to the air.
Her brow began to furor as she dug to get a straight answer from him. "How long, Héctor? A week?"
No answer came from his lips but his other thumb joined its twin suggesting even more of an increase in time.
"Two weeks?" Her voice picked up an octave.
Héctor's lack of response triggered an internal knob, making it slowly crank the heat making her blood go from a small simmer rising up to a boil. Héctor was quick to notice the steam about to explode if he dared make Imelda guess again.
"How about I save us both the effort. Imelda, it is four months." Héctor always said it, Imelda may be petite, but she packed on hell of a punch when the right moment sent her off the edge.
"What?!" She wasted no time rising from her seat with both hands slapping down at the table top. The flicker in her brown eyes suddenly became a brilliant flame.
"Depending on what opportunities we come across. It may be longer." The last bit he wished he didn't have to say. It was only prodding the angered bull. He raced over to her with his hands raised in desperation to quiet her before her voice reached to the floor just above them. "Shhhhhh! Keep your voice down! You're going to wake Coco."
Imelda, still taken aback, had no interest in quieting down. "Months?! Héctor Rivera, have you gone loco?" Her hands flew up to her head as she began to swirl her fingers at her pulsating temples. "Months?" Or maybe it was her who was going crazy. There had to have been some sort of mistake. There was certainly no way Héctor believed for a moment he could leave his family for that long.
"Imelda calm down, please let me explain."
"I am allowed to react, Héctor." Without knowing, she had begun to pace back and forth throughout her kitchen with her hands traveling from her hips to the air. "I thought this was like another one of your old trips!" Hearing just how loud her boots were against the floor, she stopped, taking in his plea. She took in a few deep breaths while she tried calmly to question him without waking Coco. The last thing she needed was their daughter to come downstairs to this circus her Papá was the ring leader of. "Where has this all come from?"
"Well, actually, you assumed, but that is not the point. This is not just his idea, I mean, he did find one gig near Mexico City, and has a few more stops planned out, but—"
Imelda took her seat again, pinching at the bridge of her nose, unable to find the right words to say, and not paying too much attention to Héctor's explanation. She was so tangled in her own raging thoughts, she was only hearing what she wanted to hear. Which was nothing.
"Let's pretend for just a moment, I am okay with you going through with this, surely Ernesto knows we need enough time to prepare for such a trip? It will take weeks to prepare."
Although this round went somewhat better than he thought it would, he braced himself for round two.
"The plan is to leave in two days."
And, again, without hesitation, Imelda sprang from her seat, this time with more fury than before. "You cannot be serious?" As the words penetrated her ears, Imelda felt as though she could explode. All Ernesto's idea and he was not there to take any of the heat. "No. Absolutely not. You cannot expect me to be okay with this. I know we need the money but it is not worth you leaving for months for a couple gigs."
"Imelda, listen. This really won't be so bad. Just until we get some traction going! Once things are all settled, I can get come back for you and Coco."
Imelda felt her knees grow weak and her face flushed as she came to realize the full extent of Héctor's request. "Wait, wait. Come back for us? You want to leave Santa Cecelia? You mean, this isn't for a few gigs?"
"You could call it a permeant gig." Trying to play off her words, but Imelda was not finding any of it amusing. "The dream hasn't gone anywhere, it is still out there waiting for us!"
Imelda faced him with her mouth gapped open. She thought this was behind them. A memory that had now turned into a bad dream.
"You are willing to uproot your family for a stupid musical fantasy? Dreams don't pay the bills, Héctor. Have you forgotten you have steady work with Señor Tomas."
Héctor was now on the defense. He knew everything Imelda would have in her arsenal to throw at him. But, he was ready.
"You know his pay is not enough. Hasn't been enough in years." Héctor steadily made his way over to her. With each cautious step, he pleaded what points he could to make her see his side.
It was abundantly clear they each had picked their side and each stood their ground with confidence.
"How many nights of grumbling bellies do you want to have, Imelda? Of needle pricked fingers? This could fix all of that."
"We are not the only ones. Santa Cecilia is no stranger to hard times. Everyone is feeling it. We should be grateful and counting our blessings. Not trying to run away from it. We are making ends meet."
"Making ends meet is not sneaking your child more food from your already skimpy plate, Imelda."
Héctor had begun pacing, and rubbing the back of his head again, searching for any words to pull the approval he needed from his wife, but her words were started to ignite a flame in him, as well.
"I am not running away from anything, I am doing this for us, for my family. Running to something! There is a whole exciting world out there to play for Imelda!"
"Our whole world is asleep upstairs in her room. She is happy, her home is here."
"I am happy, mi amor. With you, with Coco…just not—I haven't felt satisfied in a long time, Imelda. My fingers have grown accustomed to the same notes to the same songs…the spark I once felt is not there. I need to do something!"
Even with his pleas, Imelda was not budging. Her heels dug deep where she stood and her words firm. "Then go write, go out to clear your mind. I have never stopped you. But you can do all that here!" Her voice grew louder as she waved her hand around pointing to each room in their home.
Following her hand around, something caught his attention. The guitar. It sat quietly in the door frame. He grabbed it tight and held it close to her small frame. "Does this guitar mean nothing to you anymore? When you gave it to me, it meant you supported this dream. You supported me. Where has your faith gone?"
The reflection off the guitar was like a heated slap to her face, all it did was anger her more. She did support this dream once. Before Coco, she would have grabbed his hand and both run as quickly as they could to the train station. She would have followed him anywhere. But, priorities change.
He let the guitar fall to the floor as he went to her, gripping tightly to her balled up fists. "Imelda, give me just one more trip. You have my word, no more after this. Ernesto said—"
That was it. The name alone was all it took to send Imelda spiraling. She could feel her nails digging into the palms of her hands, bringing the indentions nearly to a bleed from her frustration.
"That's just it. This is his dream. The dream you seem to always be chasing, as well. If this is so important to both of you, why isn't he here pleading his case, as well?"
Héctor wasn't going to try to defend Ernesto. At this point, it would have been fruitless.
Knowing the fire he lit under her, Ernesto was smart not to face her and let Héctor take the full brunt of his doing. This was a stunt that had been in the making for years. As much of a man Ernesto claimed to be, he would never want to face Imelda after this. Unless he was proven right.
Suddenly it was as if all her memories of Ernesto flooded her mind. From the first time he swung her around into a dance and she looked him right in the eye. He always had an agenda. Eyes that were filled with his own blinded determination to get what he wanted no matter the cost. Those eyes hadn't changed in years despite all her efforts to try to find some glimmer of trust.
"Imelda don't start."
"No, that's right. He always relies on you to do the work." She was like a trusted pistol, always loaded and waiting to fire a fatal shot. "If I recall, on many occasion, you were working your fingers to the bone for mere coins all while Ernesto sat in the background fiddling with the buckle of his pants with a woman waiting to spread her legs for him. He could have children out there we don't even know about. It has never been about the music for him. All he wants is the attention, not the honor."
For as long as the couple had known each other, Imelda had only seen Héctor lose his temper once, and no shocker, Ernesto was involved. The maroon color that came to his face gave way that Imelda had crossed the line. Despite the circumstances, Ernesto was his best friend and he would not stand for any disrespect that came his way.
"Damnit, Imelda!"
Imelda stood with her arms drawn tightly across her chest, fully sticking by the words she spoke. She meant each and every one of them.
Héctor stood tall over her with his finger waving near her face, commanding her full attention. His words were harsh and stern."I've worked too hard, Imelda. Too hard to let it all slip away and settle for this. You knew long ago music mattered the world to me." He let his hand drop as he took a step back. "My mind is made up."
Unlike Imelda, once the words were spoken out to open air, he instantly regretted each one. This was not how it was suppose to be, he expected somewhat of a disagreement, but nothing like the disaster it had turned into. This was suppose to be news of bright future. A new start for him and his family. Instead, it just brought them to a place that set both of them on complete opposite ends of the spectrum.
Héctor let his arms drop to his sides and his posture relax wishing there was some way he could take back what he just spoke. His face immediately showed remorse as tears pricked Imelda's eyes and she fought to control the quiver of her chin. His words were sharp and pierced her to the core. This dream had turned something beautiful like music into a piece of meat dangling in front of two ravaged dogs doing whatever it took to sink their teeth into it.
Her husband's comment sent a cold bitter chill travel slowly down her spine. His decision had been made hours before. Héctor knew exactly what he was going to do the moment Ernesto placed the flyer in front of him. He wasn't coming home to ask for Imelda's blessing, he came simply to inform her he was leaving.
"You're right." Her words were as cold as ice. She quickly wiped away an escaped tear before it had the chance to fall from her jawline.
Héctor winced and clenched his fist before his knuckles slowly met the table top. "Imelda..I didn't mean..I just—"
"Life is about sacrifices, yes? You have made it quite clear you have sacrificed plenty. I guess it is my turn. You never needed my blessing, Héctor. Just go."
And with that, Imelda tightened her shawl around her shoulders. Her skirts wrapped around her like a wave as she slammed the backdoor tightly behind her, taking herself out of the narrative as quickly as possible, before either one of them dug the hole even deeper.
Héctor stood in the quiet kitchen. Complete silence. Not a beat or melody surrounding him. It was just empty. He reached into his pocket bringing out the folded flyer.
One piece of paper that held so much promise, had in one swift motion, ruined the night. He crumbled the paper tightly and threw it against wall before collapsing in his chair.
Nights like these painted a perfect picture of a beautiful Santa Cecilia night. The sky was clear enough to see the underside of heaven keeping a watching eye on the sleeping town. The faint sound of music dancing through the air from just a block away was doing its job by keeping Imelda company. A peaceful sound she needed to soothe her battle wounds.
The edge of her shawl was soaking wet and wrinkled from where she wiped away her tears that refused to go away, then would angrily scrunch the fabric in her hand. She slowly filled her lungs with another deep breath, trying to calm herself from the storm she had escaped from. Her voice still shaky as she tried to justify her actions from the night.
"What did he really think was going to happen? I would be eager for him to leave? That I would just pack what little we have and hop on the train by his side?" She tried to run her fingers through her hair again, but each time, she would only loosen the braid further. "But, did you even listen to him? Did you see that tiny spark of joy you haven't noticed in a while?" Another sigh indicated her actions may not have been as justified as she once thought. "Why did you have to say those hurtful things…Oh, that's right, because you're Imelda and you let whatever just spew from your mouth no matter who is in the line of fire." She couldn't help but scold herself. She really didn't mean what she said. Maybe in the moment, but not now.
Imelda wasn't letting her thoughts run amuck, but trying to catch them all and make sure they were in one place. The young woman was just confused. She should have known better. He was a musician. You don't just put music behind you and move forward.
There was no denying Héctor had a gift. A gift the world deserved to hear. Deep down she knew he wouldn't stray from the dream forever. As much as she tried to push away the thought, it was bound to come up sooner or later. The problem was, no time would be the best time for him to leave. Selfishly, she wanted to keep him all to herself. What was wrong with that? He was her husband, the love of her life, the father of her child. They had their home, security there in Santa Cecilia. They were planted and blooming.
But, she was his wife, and a wife supports her husband. No matter how absurd of a venture it may be. What would he think of her if she stuck by her guns and said no. Would he resent her for the rest of their lives? That was something she could not live with.
She let her head fall back taking in the full view of the night sky. The cold breeze brushed by her face. The moment took her back years before when on nights just like this, she would be making her way down the lattice to sneak out for a night of dancing, her soul to be filled with music. And she remembered how happy it made her. She felt alive.
Then it hit her. Not as simply, but Héctor was only trying to do the same. How could she be so quick to anger over something that brought them each so much joy.
Her thoughts were interrupted from the short distance behind her. She heard the door softly open with hesitant footsteps treading her way. It wasn't long before she felt a loving hand rest on her shoulder.
"Is this seat taken?" Without a word, she scooted over a bit, making just enough room on the edge for him to sit. She still had her guard up and locked. She was still like a burning fire, but this time, with stone around to contain her.
Héctor twisted around the corner of the bench to sit next to her. Not too close at first. Oscar and Felipe had heard the whole fight. He did his best to explain to them the situation. All had been watching her walk circles in the courtyard, hands yelling their own emotions, waiting for the best time to test his luck. The fact she was allowing him to sit with her was a blessing in itself.
He propped those long lanky arms of his along the back of the bench and brought one of his legs over the other and joined her by looking up at the sky as he let out a small whistle.
"Beautiful night, si?"
She cut her eyes to him sharply. After the fight they just had, he wants to make small talk. The fire was still flickering in her pupils. They were beautiful embers.
"How are your feet?"
"My feet?"
"You stomped around in circles enough, I don't think grass will ever grow there." He pointed out trying to ease their tension.
She pursed her full lips at him, not answering his question but clicked her trusty boots together knocking off some of the dust.
"Stupid question, I know. I take it you have cooled off some?"
She just stared back at him without an answer. She hated small talk.
"Another stupid question. I am going to say the answer is yes since you are finally giving your feet a rest."
"Héctor, please stop." She pulled her shawl tighter around her breaking her eye contact with him.
He shuffled a bit to find some comfort for his backside on the worn bench. It was not a comfortable place to sit, but he wouldn't dare complain now. He knew she hated small talk.
"Mi amor…please forgive me. You didn't deserve any of those things I said back there. You would think I had a great way with words but…this…this is not how tonight was suppose to go."
His calm words seemed to dull her anger. It always did. He knew the right things to say when she got heated. Also, when she would listen. Which wasn't always the case.
"I can't have you angry with me, Imelda."
But, her stubbornness would hopefully prevail. This time, she decided to be less angry. "Tell me you are not leaving? That this is all one big mistake, the life you have is enough, and you will stay home."
Héctor took ahold of her hand, and some hope filled Imelda's heart. She knew deep down, she was right and all she needed to hear was Héctor agree and they would go inside, kiss their daughter goodnight and finally get to bed themselves.
She could always hope.
"Imelda, I am asking you to listen to me fully. Please, hear what I have to say."
She nodded her head in agreement, she owed him that much.
"I need you to promise me, I know how you are about breaking promises." He gave her hand a joking squeeze, while trying to bring something of a smile to her face. She didn't want to smile, but she couldn't hide the smirk that instantly sprang to her face.
"One more time."
"Héctor—"
"Ahhh see, you couldn't make it two sentences, and you are already breaking your promise." He smiled, teasing her. He was doing his best to make sure this conversation didn't end up a disaster like before.
Imelda swore she would let him finish and she was bound a determined to do so. No matter how idiotic it was.
"Lo siento, mi amor. Go on."
And he did. Héctor put out his entire plan in front of her. He even threw out that he would tell Ernesto to give him a few more days to get ready. Ernesto had already lined up where they could stay, he would send money back to Imelda and Coco as he made it.
"I will write to you every day. The time will pass by so fast, you won't even know I'm gone."
Imelda let him talk, let him explain the craziness behind this scheme, to which she still felt was solely concocted by Ernesto. But, the more he talked, the more his eyes lit up. The more excited he seemed about the possibilities in front of him. He wanted it just as badly as his best friend. There was no denying it.
"Imelda, I think the promise has been fulfilled."
Her teary stare traveled from the cold ground beneath her boots to the now clouded night sky. She knew once her eyes finally caught Héctor's, she would no longer be able to hide her sadness. Imelda was not one to cry, but for some reason, this had struck a chord with her. Her eyes began to sting from fighting back the tears that desperately wanted to be let free. Just the thought of him not being with her tore her apart. Of course, their daughter was front and center of her mind.
"You talk about seizing your moment. What about the moments right here, Héctor? Right in front of you…they are precious." Imelda faced him straight on. "Precious, precious moments. Coco is changing each day. Can you imagine several weeks down the road?" She said as her voice quivered and the tears finally broke free.
Héctor wrapped his arms around his wife, bringing her into a loving embrace to comfort her. Her tears soaking his shirt.
In the gentlest voice, he said, "Oh, mi amor, you make this all sound like it was such an easy choice." He sighed as he looked up to the stars letting his head fall back fighting back his own tears. "We toss the word sacrifice around like it is such a simple task, but, Imelda, thinking of leaving you, that little girl sound asleep up there? It nearly rips my heart out." Imelda wiped the tears with the sleeve of her dress to give her poor shawl a break.
"But, I am willing to give up this small amount of time if that means taking care of my family for years and years to come. We have to focus on the good that can come from this." Héctor cupped her flushed cheeks with his chilled calloused hands, "I am doing this for you, but I would be lying if I said I wasn't doing this to satisfy a selfish side of me, too. I have to know I at least tried. This fantasy, as you claim, if I hold on to it too long in my hands, it will simply turn to dust. Give me that much Imelda, please?"
Imelda covered his hands with hers. Trying to bring some reassurance and warmth back to the conversation. She shook her head up and down. "Life is beautiful and hard and all I know is that I want to go through all of it with you. Héctor, I do trust you. And I have always supported you. You know that."
Héctor gave his wife a loving kiss. A gesture he longed to do the night began.
"Besides, what's the worst that could happen, huh? I succeed and we are set for life!" He takes her hands and rubs his boney finger across her knuckles. "These working hands of yours can finally take the break they deserve! You will never pick up another needle and thread again. We can enjoy the finer things this life has to offer!"
The thought of not working so hard or ever was a very nice one. But, the other side to the scenario…it was one that was at the forefront of her mind.
"And what happens if you don't?" She didn't want to bring his lighthearted demeanor down, but she had to know. What if this whole thing was a complete waste of time? If he came back home empty handed, what then?
"If I don't, I come home and you are stuck listening to these old guitar strings of mine for the rest of our days!"
Imelda felt so relieved. At least he could admit it. Another failed attempt wouldn't be the end of the world and they could carry on about their life like it never happened.
"I agreed to those terms the day I married you."
"I do believe our vows declared you the wife of a musician."
She rested her tired head on his chest as he wrapped an equally tired arm around her, bringing her as close as he could to him. She could feel his heart beating against her ear. The same rhythm as hers.
"Now you have to promise me something."
"Anything."
"Promise, no matter what, success or not…you will come home to us."
He gave her a tight squeeze, resting his chin atop her head. "I will be home soon, Imelda. I promise." He took her hand in his, and rubbed gently over the golden band. "I promise."
Each shirt was crisply folded, pants pressed with a sharp crease down the middle, shoes shined with laces tied. Imelda knew this would be the only time on this trip his clothes would be packed away somewhat decent, and she was trying to savor the silly moment.
On top of the the folded clothes was a stack of paper. To her, Héctor could have gone without the fourth pair of pants to make room for more paper, more writing utensils…all she felt was a complete necessity.
Héctor stood in the doorway behind her watching as she walked around the room checking off everything on his packing list out loud.
"I think that is everything."
"If I recall, I had everything ready last night…did you bring it upon yourself to repack for me?"
Imelda didn't respond. She was too busy looking around the room, making sure she didn't miss putting everything back inside his suitcase. He would be quick to call her out if he were missing anything.
The morning had been a solemn one. Everyone doing their best to keep spirits up and savoring their last minutes with Héctor. Especially Coco.
The whole week, she had nothing more to say but the same heart wrenching question, why can't she go with him…
Her small innocent words tore at his heartstrings with each syllable. So much so, the few nights they had left, they wrote a special song together. Just the two of them. This was just for her.
Imelda clasped the brass locks on the suitcase, and brought it upright for Héctor to grab the leather covered handle. As he tugged at it, Imelda found herself not able to let go.
"Write each day." She said in a quiet tone.
"Each one." Héctor leaned in for a kiss. Neither would back away ending the sweet embrace. They each stood letting the kiss last as long as the other wanted.
"Héctor, Ernesto—"
"Is here." The twins voiced echoed up the stairs taking responsibility for their loving kiss to come to a halt.
Héctor lips lingered close to hers, letting his forehead meet hers.
"Imelda, will you go greet Ernesto for me, I, uh, need to go see Coco."
It was the last thing she wanted to do, but she obliged. "Si. Of course."
Héctor took Imelda's hand in his own and they walked out of their bedroom together. Once down the hall, Héctor released her hand, turning toward Coco's room bringing his guitar from his back to show her. Imelda didn't go any further, but leaned against the wall forcing herself to listen to Héctor explain, once again, why she and her Mamá were not joining him. Her motherly instinct was beginning to kick in as her feet were pulling her toward her child to comfort her. Just before she could enter the room, she was brought to an abrupt stop.
What came from the little girl's room, was more heart wrenching than another excuse. She heard Héctor let his hand fall along the strings of the guitar and he began to sing.
This was a moment she knew needed to be just for Coco.
Imelda composed herself with each creaky step she took down the stairs. She brought her cold hands up to cool her cheeks and brow, tightened up her loose braid within the ribbon, and straightened out the front of her dress.
This was the first time she would be face to face with Ernesto since he decided to plant this crazy plan into Héctor's head. As much as she wanted to give him a piece of her mind, she promised Héctor she wouldn't. She would do her best to make this parting a peaceful one.
But, this was Imelda. And Héctor wasn't standing between her and Ernesto this time.
He stood at the bottom of the steps outside. He was wearing his best slacks and had pressed his own shirt. She could tell. The lines were slightly crooked. Maybe with all the money he plans to make, he could pay someone to take care of his laundry. As much as she wanted to make the snarky remark, she bit her tongue.
His bag was slung over his shoulder. In his hand, he held on to two train tickets.
He had assumed to meet Héctor at the train station. To his point, he needed all the witnesses he could have in case Imelda decided to go loco. But, Héctor insisted on saying his good-byes to her at home. It still didn't mean he wanted to face her. She could see the weariness on his face.
Imelda literally had the higher ground. She stood tall as she greeted him. "Ernesto." His name rolled off her tongue like ice.
He tipped his hat at her looking past her for any clue Héctor was nearby, "Good afternoon, Imelda."
Without a response, he adjusted his hat back on his head and looked aimlessly around.
"Héctor is with Coco. He will be down any minute. You are welcome to wait out here if you wish."
As much as Imelda tried to put on a tough strong front, Ernesto could see right through it. The thought of her daughter broke down her shield. She would have made some sort of jab by now, said something to get under his skin.
Ernesto would be lying to himself if he believed for a second Imelda was completely on board with this. The twins had heard the whole argument that night and rushed to defend their sister, and Héctor filling in the gaps.
He called out to her as she turned to go back inside. Excited yet weary of what words would slip past his teeth.
"Imelda."
She took a long pause and turned on her heels to face him. The last thing she wanted to to speak with him. Could he not grant her that? To just let her go inside and be with Héctor for one more moment? She stood with her arms crossed tightly across her chest with her head dipped low. She took a deep breath before catching him eye to eye.
Once he had her attention, he saw it. The once raw around the edges, steel faced woman had nothing but sadness slathered over her demeanor. And, for the first time since their travel plans had been made into reality, he felt for her and Coco.
"This was inevitable, Imelda. One cannot deny who they are meant to be." He meant for the words to bring the ailing wife of his best friend some sort of comfort. Success coming in their future. But as he saw her brow wrinkle and her eyes squint, he knew his well meaning words stung.
Imelda knew he only spoke the truth. It was a statement she had known deep in her soul but ignored it all this time. But, would never admit it to Ernesto.
She let her face relax and her arms fall as she turned again to go back inside.
"Is that all, you usually say more than that to me. Nothing?"
Not nothing. In fact, she had a lot to say.
Why now?
You're both idiots.
You go. Héctor stays.
Héctor…stays.
The last thought lingered at the tip of her tongue, but she couldn't bring herself to argue. Especially with Ernesto. Especially right then.
Those thoughts would only live on in her memory. Her shoulders dip as her hand rested heavy on the door handle. "What is there left to say, Ernesto? You've wanted this for years. You hold the golden tickets in your hand."
As much as she wanted to be mad at him, she couldn't. At least not too much. A sliver of anger toward him was present. Evident in her stance. But, she had to keep telling herself, it's not like he twisted Héctor's arm to leave. Héctor was leaving on his doing.
With that, Ernesto let her be.
Knowing she could stall no longer, Imelda met Héctor and Coco inside. Each gave another loving goodbye. Imelda wanted to check his suitcase again, but she knew she wouldn't get away with it.
Héctor grabbed his guitar, gave Imelda a swift kiss on the cheek and gave Coco one, as well.
Off he went. The sun beams bounced off the guitar and the two men slapped at each others backs kicking up the dust beneath their feet. Héctor never looked back.
The mother and daughter watched at the door as Héctor walked away from them. Walking away from the home they had built. Away from Santa Cecilia.
Coco clutched tightly to her Mama's hand. Imelda gripped it right back. "He will be home soon, Mamá. He promised."