Chapter 4 [Courtyard]

John mulled over the recent encounter. Domingo's attitude had alienated everyone. Alfonso and Teresa, on the other hand, served Diplomacy well. He hoped that the land offer would satisfy Domingo. Alejandro presented the last possessions to them. Manolito and Alfonso talked at that very moment.

Transition needed to happen one way or the other….

Victoria sipped on her coffee. "John, are you all right?"

"Hmm?" He shook off Reverie's hold. "Sorry, Victoria. I was just thinking. I want this to go smoothly for Manolito, your relatives and you. I know it isn't easy seeing Rancho Montoya under someone else other than your father."

"No it is not. Still, Papa liked Tio Alfonso and Tia Teresa. He did not want Rancho Montoya to be divided." She shook her head. "He would not want Tio Domingo to get that land. He was practical."

He nodded. "Don Sebastian would've given him some back corner of the rancho."

"Perhaps." She took a draught from her cup. "I think Tio Alfonso offered him land along either Don Martin's or Don Alejandro's borders. If Tio Domingo wishes to sell, they will buy it from him. I expect that he will."

"You think he will?" He raised an eyebrow.

"He will. Tio Domingo wants to be free. He will sell the land and live off of the money." She scowled. "I cannot believe he came for that!"

He frowned. "Some people just want the easy way out, Victoria. I don't agree with giving in. Apparently though, he is entitled to something. Too bad you all can't get a share from him when he sells it."

Montoya Calculation sparked in her eyes. A wicked smile spread across her face. "If he sells to Don Martin, he will pay it to Tio Alfonso."

He rolled his eyes. "I should've known that your family would have this all figured out." He drank from his cup.

"Did you expect that we would not? John! Tio Domingo should not get away with this! And he will not! I trust Tio Alfonso to do what we expect of him. Then we shall see what happens."

Manolito emerged from the front door. He hustled over to them. "John! Victoria! I believe it is done."

"Tio Alfonso talked to you?" She sat up straight. Her hand set the cup down on the saucer.

"Sí. He is now the new Padrón. He talks to Rafael now. He will talk to Pepe and the servants very soon. And, John, you and he will talk as well." Manolito grinned.

"He wants to renew my alliance with Don Sebastian." John nodded. "That's news I definitely want to hear. I'm sure he'll talk with Don Ricardo and you in Tucson as well."

"I believe that he will, John." Manolito noticed Alfonso heading in their direction. He waved the new Padrón over to their table. "¡Hola, Tio!"

"Hola, Manolito y Victoria. Good afternoon, John." Alfonso sat down beside them. "Are you all right?" He motioned for Pepe. "Would you like more coffee?"

"That would be delightful, Don Alfonso. Thank you." John watched Pepe refill their coffee and pour Alfonso's. "I trust that everything's going well?"

"Sí. Manolito and I agree. The money will be in your bank manaña. Manolito, Victoria and you can divide the money." Alfonso took a draught from his cup.

"Gracias, Tio." She considered Manolito for a heartbeat. "I am glad Tia and you are here. We can count on you?"

"Of course. John, I want to continue Don Sebastian's agreement between Rancho Montoya and the High Chaparral." Alfonso put his hand out.

John nodded. Hesitation couldn't keep his hand back for any span of time. He shook Alfonso's hand. "We'd be honored, Don Alfonso. You can count on us as well."

"Muchissimas gracias, John." Alfonso nodded. "Manolito, I know I do not have to ask but…."

Manolito smiled. "Hey! Rancho Rivertree is here for you as well, Tio!" He shook Alfonso's hand. "Mercedes will want to meet you."

"Blue talked of her. You are a fortunate man, Manolito. I cannot wait for the visit north." Alfonso raised his cup.

"We will welcome you." She touched cups with Alfonso's.

Hospitality warmed the air and hearts around….