Chapter 1 [Tucson—Two Days After "Americanos"]
Sol warmed the late morning. Wagons rolled down the Old Pueblo's dirt roads. Business and Errands occupied most drivers on that morning. A few others went to grab a coffee at a bar or perhaps a meal at Rosie's before Lunch Rush set in. Still others labored at their tasks.
And a particular woman watched….
[Depot Construction Site]
Angelina pulled up on the borrowed horse's reins. She dismounted in front of Reginald's Feed and Seed. She'd enjoyed the ride from Rancho Vega that morning. Wind had rippled her hair. She felt refreshed. Mood lightened. Water from her canteen quenched Thirst's arid grasp over her throat. She pondered her new surroundings.
The tavern rose bit by bit from that lot. Three men nailed boards together into framework supports. Ropes and Muscle raised the frames into their designated places. Nails held them up and together. Soon enough, more boards, shingles and glass would solidify the walls. Smoothed oak would gleam from the floor. A counter and tables would cater to customers' culinary whims. Several rooms would offer boarders comfort.
Dream would live again….
It's happening! It's really happening! She wiped a tear from her cheek. Bisabuela would love seeing her business rise again! She sucked in a deep breath. She got back up on her horse again. "Vamanos." She rode down the side street and over to the Wells Fargo Bank. This must be where that Mr. Price is! She stopped the horse again. She climbed down from the saddle and walked inside. She noted only one person waiting in line. Price sat with Don Ricardo and John at his desk.
Price glanced up from his discussion. "If you'd like to take a seat, Miss, I'll be right with you."
"Sí. Gracias, Señor." She sat down in a wooden chair by the front window. I wonder if they are here because of Consul Ortiz's grant to them? I cannot even think of how I would deal with that much land! She shook her head.
Ricardo turned. "Angelina? Perdóname." He got up and walked over to her. "Join us por favor." He walked a chair over to the desk. "You should meet Señor Price." He set the chair down. "Señor Price, this is Doña Angelina de la Vega, my cousin from Los Angeles."
"It is very nice to meet you." She shook hands with the banker.
"And you, Doña Angelina. This is a pleasure! How was your trip here? I trust it was uneventful?" Price invited her to sit with them.
"It was muy bien. I like Tucson so far. I watched the boards go up on the building just now." She sighed. "I am sorry that I disturb your business."
"You aren't disturbing anything, Angie. You're family." John shook his head. "You've shown more common sense than your brother and sister as far as I can tell."
"I wish I had known you were riding into town. I would have offered a carriage ride." Lament weighed on Ricardo's face.
"I am fine. I needed the ride to think." She shrugged. "There is so many things. ¿Sí?"
"That is an understatement, Doña Angelina." Price nodded. "You've heard what Consul Ortiz said?"
"I did." She looked at the three men in turn. "I am glad I have just the tavern to think about."
"There is nothing wrong with keeping oneself within certain bounds. We should all be so prudent." Price reviewed the books. "John, Don Ricardo, as we were saying, when you both have a plan, come and see me. We can set up the finances." He stood and straightened his waistcoat. "My sympathies about Don Sebastian once again. Good luck on this venture. I look forward to hearing how you make out." He shook John's and Ricardo's hands. "Once again, it is very nice to meet you, Doña Angelina. I look forward to working with you."
"You too, Señor Price. Gracias." She shook his hand as well.
"If you two don't have anything planned, Victoria and Maria are probably waiting in Rosie's right now. I need to eat before that trip back." John held his hand out toward the door.
"Tengo hambre. Gracias, John." She smiled and followed their lead.
Price nodded. During his communications with Miguel and Markum, Doubt had crept in about her capabilities. Now Reassurance offered some relief. I think she can do this. Time will tell….