Chapter Fourteen: Lolita's Secret Guest (Part 3)
The week came and went within the blink of an eye, and with each day that passed, Zorro slowly regained his strength. His back healed very well, and what few burn marks he had were already recovering well enough that Consuela allowed him to rest on his back so long as his bandages were changed and the salve was constantly applied. Bernardo continued to visit each day, helping in smuggling in items and keeping an eye on Zorro as Lolita or Consuela rested. When Lolita asked how Don Alejandro would feel about his servant being used to help Zorro recover, Consuela responded, "He himself has been saved by Zorro many time, hermanita. He heard that Zorro was injured and when I asked for Bernardo's help, he immediately agreed, so long as we do not mention this to anyone."
Lolita was wracked to madness in anxiety with her elder sister constantly buzzing about being alone and the thought of her parents arriving and finding her harboring an outlaw in her room no less. Still, she worked day and night to make sure he was comfortable and tend to his wounds, especially his leg. On the sixth day since he come to the Pulidos, she stirred from her sleep, yawning and stretching in her rocking chair. Rubbing the sleep out of her eyes, Lolita glanced towards the window to see that the sun's first rays were sneaking into her room. Turning her head, she smiled as she saw the masked man sleeping on her bed, resting soundly under the covers. Rising from her post, she walked to the bed and sat on the edge, reaching for a bowl filled with water that she had placed on the nightstand. Dipping the towel on the table into the water, she wrung it free of the excess and began to wipe his face gently. Caressing his skin with the wet cloth, she took great care to avoid lifting the mask and head cloth which covered his hair. Continuing her work, she moved the wet towel down his neck to his collarbone, planning to clean his shoulders next and avoid his chest out of respect.
His hand moved suddenly, his fingers slowly taking hold of her own, making her gasp in surprise. "Oh!" she breathed, seeing his dark eyes watching her face, a peaceful smile on his lips. "I'm sorry. Did I wake you?"
"Yes, and I'm glad you did," he admitted, tightening his grip tenderly on her hand. "It's a blessing to have your face as the first thing I see when I wake."
Lolita felt her skin become warm as she listened to him, her eyes shyly averted from his gaze. She forced herself to look at the covers and ignore the fact that his chest was bare beneath them. She had seen him before as he slept, when Consuela had asked for her assistance in bathing him with wet towels, and she was amazed at the shape he as in. He was lithe and toned, his skin tanned as though he worked in the sunlight, even though he usually only came out at night.
"Gracias, Lolita."
"For what?" she asked, facing him once more, curiosity shining in her brown eyes.
"For caring for me," he answered, bringing her hand to his lips so that he might kiss her knuckles. "You are risking a lot having me recuperate here."
"Nonsense," she scoffed, her brows furrowed as she became serious. "I couldn't leave you there, they might have killed you! All of California needs you, Zorro, to fight against men like Riviera. What would we do without you?"
"Someone else could always take up the mask…" He watched in amazement as she shook her head.
"It is one thing to wear a mask. It is another to risk his life for what he believes in, to protect those who cannot fight back. You are that man, Zorro. I believe California may always need a Zorro to vigilantly watch over it, in case men like this commandante appear again. But we can't have that if you were k-…" Lolita choked on the last word, her eyes squeezed shut as she imagined the horror of having this man caught and killed mercilessly. "…if anything were to happen to you…countless people would suffer…and my heart would break."
Gripping her hand once more, the outlaw pressed the young woman's hand to his chest, sending a thrill through her. "Do you feel that, Lolita?" he whispered, watching her face.
"Your heartbeat? Sí…why?"
"It beats for three reasons. One, because God still wills it to. Two, because I cannot abandon California, not now anyways. And three…because there is a beautiful and strong-willed woman that makes me want to wake up each day to see her." His heart ached as he saw tears appear in her eyes, his free hand reaching up to wipe her tears away. Forcing himself, he lifted his head towards her, only to be gently pushed back to the pillows. At first he thought he might have gone too far, when Lolita lowered her head and pressed her hand to his cheek before claiming his mouth. With both hands, Zorro took hold of her waist, drawing her closer to him as he kissed her sweetly.
As the two shared in the heartfelt kiss, the door opened softly and in came Bernardo. He closed the door and turned about, carrying a tray of food from Consuela, when his eyes widened at the sight of the masked outlaw and the young señorita having a tender moment. Pursing his lips as he gave them a stern look, he tapped his foot rapidly upon the wooden floor. The two parted in surprise and gaped, only to laugh as they saw the look on the mute man's face.
"Hola, Bernardo," Lolita blushed, tucking her hair behind her ear. "Is that for Señor Zorro?" She gestured at the food and the invalid, imitating the action of eating. When the servant nodded, she arose from the bed and nodded back in thanks. "I'll let you take care of it then. I'd best get downstairs and check on Consuela." Casting her hero an affectionate glance, she excused herself and left the room.
"Don't give me that look," Zorro smirked at his friend, laughing as Bernardo scolded him with his hands after setting the tray on his lap. "It couldn't be helped," he shrugged, wincing as he felt his back ache. The cuts and light burns had been healing rapidly thanks to Consuela's concoctions and Lolita's vigilance, but they were still sore. "I'm all right," he reassured his friend as Bernardo rushed to his side upon seeing him in pain. "It's fine…it's my leg that's being a bother. I'm lucky that bullet only grazed me."
Bernardo began to motion a message with his hands rapidly, prompting Zorro to hold up his hands. "Slow down, your words are slurring together." He watched as Bernardo commenced to speak again. "So Don Carlos and Doña Catalina are coming home today, eh? Consuela found out through a messenger?" Bernardo answered the affirmative. "I see…then that means Riviera will be up to trouble tonight." His brows furrowed as wrinkled formed on his forehead. "Wounded or not, I must do something tonight, or the Pulidos could end up without a home, or their lives!"
~Z~
"My beautiful girls!" Don Carlos beamed as he entered his home. With his arms wide open, he happily accepted Lolita and Yolanda's embraces and kisses. It was nearly dusk, and he and Catalina were exhausted from the long trip, but he was delighted to see his daughters once again. "Is all well?"
"Yes, now that you're here," Lolita beamed, moving now to embrace her stepmother. "Welcome home!"
"Gracias, Lolita," Catalina smiled, kissing the young woman's cheek. "Carlotta, dear, why the glum face?"
"I don't have a glum face," Carlotta sniffed, her sour expression saying otherwise.
Lolita and Yolanda shared a glance, both of them heaving tired sighs. Carlotta was inconsolable nowadays – ever since Lolita turned Ricardo away, he continued to come back asking for her. Consuela had been ordered by Lolita not to let him in, and the Indian woman was soon shocked to find that Carlotta did not want him around either. "If he's coming to simper after my baby stepsister, he can do it from under the eaves of the house," she had snapped impertinently.
"Well, never mind that," Carlos chuckled, knowing how Carlotta's mood usually tended to be unpleasant when she didn't get her way. "Let's go inside and…wait a moment. Who's coming at this hour?"
Down the road, three horsemen could be seen approaching the hacienda. As the came closer, the blue coats and red sashes became more visible, showing that these uniformed visitors had come from the Los Angeles cuartel. Lolita felt her stomach twist in fear as she recognized the cold eyes and hard mouth of Commandante Riviera, followed by Sergeant Garcia and Corporal Reyes.
Don Carlos's brows began to knit together in suspicion as the man approached them. Holding his tongue, he waited until the stopped before the door before greeting them. "Buenas noches, señores," he greeted them cordially, bowing to them. "What brings you to our humble hacienda?"
Riviera dismounted his steed and removed his hat, bowing in return to the don. "Buenas noches," he greeted them politely, his smile making Lolita shiver. "We were inspecting all the lands surrounding the pueblo to ensure that there is peace tonight. No doubt you've heard of that explosion that took place at the Juarez estate?"
"We have," Don Carlos confirmed. "Thank you for your service, Commandante."
"My men and I have been scouring the local haciendas all day, Don Carlos. Surely you would not deny us a meal and drink?"
Sergeant Garcia and Corporal Reyes's eyes bulged at this. Everyone knew that Don Carlos had only just arrived home with his wife, and they were tired from their travels. The last thing anyone would want was guests. They glanced at one another, then towards the family, their eyes filled with apology. To contradict their superior, especially in front of others, was considered treasonous and disrespectful. Only Capitan Fernandez had managed to get away with that for he threatened to report Riviera's actions to the governor…but even he was risking his neck when he dared to speak out.
"…of course, we would be honored," lied Don Carlos, already gritting his teeth. "You are more than welcome to bring your horses to the stables. We just ask that you wait inside and give us a moment to refresh ourselves before supper."
"You are too kind," Riviera bowed once more. Turning to the soldiers, he ordered, "Sergeant, Corporal, go inside. I shall take the horses to the stables."
The two men gawked at him, stunned. Riviera never did anything thoughtful for his men, nor was he so considerate. Still, they weren't about to turn down this offer, or refuse it. "Sí, mi Commandante," Sergeant Garcia agreed, motioning for Reyes to follow him.
Riviera waited until they all had entered before mounting his steed and riding to the stables behind the house. Once he had arrived, he gave two sharp whistles. Within seconds, the four men he had hired came out to greet him. "Take these horses and hide them down the road. I don't want them to get hurt when the explosion takes place," he whispered, getting off his horse once again. "You have the gunpowder?"
"Sí," one of the men answered quietly.
"Commandante, why did you have bring those two buffoons along?" hissed a second.
"Because of that very reason, estupido," snapped Riviera. "Garcia and Reyes are the two biggest idiots in the entire garrison. They will be clueless and petrified when the 'accident' takes place." Glancing around, he made sure no one was present before reminding them, "Now remember… set up enough gunpowder around the stables to set the structure ablaze and some by the kitchen. The ovens and stoves should assist in getting the back of the house burning once the blast goes off. Once you've set everything up, warn me through the south window in the sala-" He pointed the way out to them before continuing, "-by waving the lantern I gave you. Then you may proceed and light the powder. Make sure you leave before anyone can catch you, and don't let a soul see you out here."
The men nodded and muttered their understanding before watching him leave for the front of the house. "Well, you heard him. Rico, Pedro, you go and get the barrel out of its hiding place," their leader, Manuel, ordered them. "Rodrigo and I will check the kitchen to see how many servants we have to deal with and wait for you here."
Satisfied, the men split off to do their work. Manuel and Rodrigo slunk towards the backdoor of the kitchen, daring to open the door and peer inside. There stood three women, all of them scurrying about and slaving away to prepare extra food for their unexpected guests.
A nudge on his back made Manuel wave his friend off. "Not now," he whispered, a twinge of guilt filling his chest as he realized these women would most likely get killed, if not injured. A second nudge, this one harder than the first, made him frown in anger. "This is no time for games-!" he warned his associate, shutting the door to avoid earning the women's attention. Turning around, he found himself gaping at a black horse cornering him, pawing the ground furiously as his nostrils flared.
"I believe you are right, señor."
A smack on the back of his neck sent him tumbling off the steps, a punch to the face sending him off to slumberland. From out of the darkness, Zorro emerged, flexing his gloved hand. "This is a very serious matter," he told the unconscious man, winking at Bernardo as his friend joined him. "It was good of you to warn me that Riviera had arrived, Bernardo. Now we know what they are plotting. Quick, tie him up, and his friend, too." He motioned towards the second unconscious man they had dispatched, the one named Rodrigo.
Bernardo looked back at his friend and began to gesture, concern shining in his eyes. "What?...don't worry about me. I'll manage. I can at least stand," Zorro reassured him. "Besides, I have you and Tornado here. But now we must warn Consuela and Lolita. We need them to buy us some time…and I think we can make use of Sergeant Garcia and Corporal Reyes being here."
~Z~
Lolita did not care for Riviera's company in the least. It was as though a viper had entered the nest of a cornered sparrow and kept eyeing his hosts as though they would become his next meal. Rivera took his place beside her father's right hand, to the left of herself and across from her stepmother. She found it absolutely conceited and disgraceful that he march in here as if he owned the establishment and they were the guests.
"I tell you, Don Carlos, it is dangerous to live in a place like Los Angeles," Riviera insisted as Consuela stepped out of the kitchen with a large steaming pot in her hands. Two mestiza women followed behind, each of them bringing their own trays with hot food. Garcia and Reyes, famished from tagging after their leader with countless orders, we drooling as the food was placed before them and served. "You never know who may be next and have their hacienda blown to bits, or their livestock killed. Now Mexico City on the other hand-"
"I'm certain we can manage whatever comes our way, we've managed thus far," Carlos said curtly. "However, I thank you for the concern…"
Lolita fought back a sigh as she continued to listen to her father and the Commandante argue politely back and forth. She leaned back into her chair, when suddenly Consuela accidently knocked her utensils onto the floor.
"Forgive me," Consuela murmured, catching Lolita's eyes and motioning for her to bend down to help her.
Lolita found it very odd that Consuela would be so clumsy, and her face seemed so serious when she glanced meaningfully at the floor. Without uttering a word, she scooted her chair back and knelt down, nose to nose with her friend. "What's wrong?"
"Zorro needs a distraction," Consuela whispered so softly that Lolita could scarcely hear. Once more, her eyes moved quickly, showing Lolita to look at the window. Lolita did so, ever so slightly turning her head, her eyes widening as she saw her masked invalid peering through the glass, placing one finger upon his lips. In the blink of an eye, he vanished from sight.
"A distraction?"
"I need to take Garcia, and you need to keep Riviera here," Consuela said quickly. "He has a plan."
Nodding her head, Lolita arose casually and took her seat, acting as though the conversation never took place. She let the servant woman put her utensils back for her when he father suddenly spoke up.
"Consuela, where is the wine?" Don Carlos asked, his brows furrowed in confusion.
"Forgive me, Don Carlos," Consuela curtsied. "I need to bring more from the cellar, we've just run out in the kitchen."
"Wine?" Sergeant Garcia perked, his eyes huge with hope.
"Sí. It will take a moment because I may have to bring a barrel of it up, and the maids are busy cooking," the Indian answered lightly.
Rising to his feet, Sergeant Garcia saluted his superior and the don, asking aloud, "Señores, I would like to ask permission to aid the lady in this task."
"That's very generous of you, Sergeant," Don Carlos thanked him warmly.
"Sure is," Corporal Reyes muttered, rolling his eyes.
"Very well, Sergeant, you are dismissed," Riviera waved him away, the corner of his mouth twitching upward. If Garcia got harmed in the blast, he wouldn't have to put up with that blundering pig anymore.
"While we are waiting, I'd like to dance for you all while we eat," Lolita spoke up, rising from her seat.
"Really?!" her father asked, his eyes huge with disbelief. His daughter never danced at events or dinners for anyone's amusement…why on earth would she want to do it now with this awful man in the house?
"Really?" Catalina asked softly, her eyes twinkling with hope. She could think of one main reason why her stepdaughter would suddenly be eager to practice and test a new dance on guests, and she believed that reason happened to be a young don living within proximity of their rancho.
"Really?" Carlotta scoffed. "Since when do you dance for guests?"
"I've been practicing," she lied, sensing her neck was turning red in embarrassment. "Don Diego's servant, Bernardo, has been showing me steps on popular dances in the area." It wasn't a complete lie: she had partaken in popular dances back in Spain, and Bernardo did like to do little jigs for her and tug her into the dance whenever she visited. She only hopped it would be enough to distract them long enough for Zorro to finish his work.
"All…right then," Don Carlos said, still somewhat shocked. "Go on, my dear."
"Corporal, would you play the guitar?" Lolita asked, walking to him and placing her hand on his shoulder. "I remember you played at the costumed ball my family held nearly a month ago…won't you help me?"
"Ah…of…course?" he squeaked, blushing at the request.
"Excuse us," Consuela said, waving her hands towards her as she gestured for the sergeant to follow. "This way, Sergeant."
Garcia followed somewhat reluctantly, sad that he had to miss out the fun. He hoped that bringing the wine in wouldn't take too long. Still, if he got to help with the wine, maybe Consuela would give him an extra glass in thanks for his assistance! Trotting after the woman, he nearly tripped when she stopped suddenly and gasped. "Oh dear! I forgot about the horses!" she moaned in frustration. "Sergeant, I forgot to see if the horses have water – the vaqueros were out late and I told them to take the night off. Would you do that for me first?"
Garcia held back a groan, anxious to get back to the meal when he heard Reyes playing the guitar back in the sala. "…Sí, Señorita Consuela. I will go and check on the horses." With a heavy heart and an empty stomach, Garcia trudged out of the kitchen, exiting the house and surrounded by the warm night air. Walking out to see the horses, he frowned as he heard grunting. He looked around, suspicious of foul play, keeping one hand on the hilt of his sword. Fear goaded him on to rush into the stables, hiding in one of the empty stalls. His heart froze as he felt the tip of a blade press against his back in the darkness. "Oh please, do not kill me-!"
"Shhh! Quiet, Sergeant," a familiar voice whispered behind him. "Or you will spoil it all."
Garcia felt his brain ache from confusion. Forcing himself to move, he turned his head and twisted his thick torso just enough to see a pair of glittering eyes behind a black mask. "Señor Zorro?!" he gasped, only to be hushed again. "Zorro, what is going on-?"
"Are you still missing the gunpowder from the cuartel?"
"Well…yes. Commandante Riviera blames the soldiers for not keeping better watch-"
"It was Riviera's doing, and these are the men responsible for the Juarez explosion. Watch."
Holding his tongue, Garcia followed Zorro's advice. Though it was true he desired the reward placed on Zorro's head, the outlaw had saved his life many times and he secretly admired him. So, he crouched in the shadows and watched in awe as two men yanked one of the missing barrels of gunpowder up to the stables.
"That's the last one," one man grunted, completely out of breath. "Where did the others go?"
"Riviera's probably called them in," the other waved it off. "I'm sure they'll be out. I need to catch my breath first. I can't believe we had to bring all the gunpowder out on our own."
"What do you expect? Riviera's not going to do it himself. Once we use up these barrels and blow up this part of the hacienda, he'll swindle this estate from the Pulidos. Then he'll be able to buy a cart full of gunpowder to destroy the other homes-"
"Not if I have anything to say about it!" bellowed the Sergeant, charging out at the two men with his sword in the air.
The two jumped at the sound of Garcia's angry call, pulling out pistols from their belts. They smirked as Garcia came to a skidding halt, his eyes nearly popping out of his sockets as he saw the pistols pointed at his rotund belly. "You were saying what now?" one of the goons grinned, his smile vanishing as he yelped in surprise. Jumping back, he narrowly missed having his hand cut by the tongue of a nearly invisible whip that he was already very familiar with. Their faces paled at the sight of the dark silhouette resting against the outer wall of the stables. "It's impossible!"
"Improbable, yes. Impossible? No." Placing his fingers to his mouth, he gave a low whistle and reached out his arm. Tornado appeared to rush from the darkness, running past his master and allowing him to climb on. Using the rope Bernardo had prepared into a lasso for him, he chased after the hooligans and threw the rope over his head, letting Tornado run back to Garcia once the men were caught. "Would you do the honors, Sergeant?" he asked graciously, handing the rope over to the bewildered man.
"Oh! Gracias Señor Zorro!" Sergeant Garcia beamed, grinning giddily before tugging like an ox, watching the two men collapse.
As Garcia was distracted, Zorro rode over to a nearby shrub, where Bernardo had a fit of silent giggles as he watched. "Bernardo," he whispered, earning his friend's attention immediately. "Go home and tell my father not to worry…I'm coming back tonight." Bernardo nodded once, saluting his friend before running away to find his horse that he had hidden nearby.
With his message sent and the four culprits caught, Zorro rode back to the elated Sergeant Garcia and dismounted cautiously. This did not escape the military man's eye, and he found himself starting to reach out to help the outlaw. "Señor Zorro, you seem a little off balance. Have you been at the wine, too?"
Zorro chuckled, shaking his head. "No, my friend. I'm afraid these men bested me the first time around."
"Then you are injured?" Garcia gasped.
"Sí…my leg is healing quickly, though. I suppose you will want to capture me now for the reward?"
Garcia looked at the man in black, pity surging through him as he realized how much pain Zorro must be in. Yet, he fought on and helped him to find and catch the culprits, as well as intensify his belief great distrust of Riviera's secret, wicked deeds. "I am required by the law, Señor, to arrest you…" His eyes wandered to the men lying on the ground, moaning in pain from being tugged around. His eyes brightened as he remembered the missing gunpowder and his superior inside. "However, I think we can work something out!"
"Oh?" Zorro asked innocently.
"Yes…you see, I have just overheard a terrible plot made by our commandante to harm this family. It would not look very good if I were to go back and announce I found hoodlums trying to destroy the Pulido hacienda and stables, and I found the missing gunpowder. Riviera cannot be furious in front of his hosts, and Capitan Fernandez will be most pleased! Since no one else has seen us, I can claim that I caught them single-handedly…you must understand, Señor-" Sergeant Garcia pleaded earnestly, holding out his hands in defense, "-I do not mean to be self-righteous or a hero, but it would not look good if you were to be here while I caught these men and let you go."
A slow grin stretched over Zorro's lips. Garcia caught on and understood perfectly, and he thought it was all his own plan. Really, he was impressed with how much quicker the chubby man was becoming…not as quick as himself, Bernardo, or Lolita, perhaps, but he was proud the sergeant was exercising his brain. "Why, Sergeant, that's a brilliant idea, and most generous of you! However, before I depart, I must ask two favors."
"Certainly, Señor Zorro!" Garcia nodded his head rapidly.
"My first request is that you allow me to come inside and teach the commandante a little lesson just after you tell everyone the news. I believe he needs a reminder that he cannot continue to harm these good people without facing the consequences."
"Oh, but of course!" Garcia giggled in mirth. He was certain Capitan Fernandez would get a good laugh out of hearing this story, for even the soldiers believed more in Zorro than in Riviera. "But, ah, perhaps you ought to knock me down when I chase after you, it will make it convincing."
"Certainly," Zorro chuckled. "The second is a little detail really…allow me to give Señorita Consuela just a handful of gunpowder to mix into the wine."
"What for?"
"Why, Sergeant Garcia, it shall be the start of my dramatic entrance!"
~Z~
Lolita could feel her cheeks go red as she forced herself to keep her eyes either on the floor or Corporal Reyes as he continued to play the guitar. She had lost count of the minutes that flew by, letting the corporal's music float around her as she twirled her skirts and clapped her hands in time to the rhythm. The worst part of it all was that she could sense Riviera's eyes on her, and she did not care for it. The last thing she needed was another man's unwanted attention, whether it was for her beauty or money.
Spinning once more, sending her flaring skirts into the air, she saw both Consuela and Sergeant Garcia walk back in, both of them watching her in amusement. Catching the servant's eyes, she noticed how her hand moved, as if to say 'stop'. Grateful, she nodded to Corporal Reyes to finish the song, stomping her feet and snapping her fingers before taking a low bow. Modestly accepting her applause, she took her seat once again at the table, inhaling deeply and taking hold of her fan to cool herself.
"That was very impressive, my dear," Riviera said coyly, accepting the wine Consuela poured for him. He had only seen her from a distance and was aware of her, but he had never been so close, nor did he notice how beautiful she was until now. He was stunned by how commanding her presence was, and her movements were rather seductive to him as he had watched her dance. The Commandante did not believe in love, however, he did believe that marriage could be tolerated if the right person was found. Lolita was the only blood-born child of Don Carlos, while the two stepdaughters were relatives through Catalina Sanchez. If his scheme hadn't worked with Juarez, then perhaps he ought to consider himself as the new in-law…
Lolita felt bile working its way up her throat when she heard him speak, keeping her eyes averted as Garcia stood by her father and Consuela continued to serve the men. "I couldn't have done it without Corporal Reyes. Dance is nothing without music," she answered lightly, casting the corporal a warm smile, to which he blushed bashfully.
"That was lovely, my dear," Don Carlos nodded, also very wary of how the Commandante was looking at his child. "Now that the wine is here, though, let's relax and enjoy the meal…"
"Before we do, I just wanted to alert you, Don Carlos, Commandante," Sergeant Garcia spoke up, saluting them with a serious face. "As I was helping the señorita with the wine, I found four criminals trying to place gunpowder outside the house and stables. It appears they wanted to blow up your home!"
"What?!" both men gaped.
"Heavens!" Doña Catalina gasped, nearly fainting in her chair.
Seeing the Señora's reaction, the sergeant took off his hat and began to fan her. "Please, Doña, it is all right! I stopped the criminals, they are all tied up outside, and unconscious. I also found out that the gunpowder they were using was the one stolen from the cuartel!"
"Well done, Sergeant!" Don Carlos cheered, clapping his hand on the man's back. "Sit down man, and let us drink to you success! We owe you our lives!"
Riviera watched Garcia move back to his seat, his eyes flaming with hatred. There was no way that giant ox could have defeated his four men and stopped them from setting off the explosion…something was up. Still, he could not reveal himself, so he raised his glass, saluting the elder and his soldier, before placing the fine glass to his lips and sipping the beverage. At the exact same time, Don Carlos started to do the same. Corporal Reyes cast Garcia an irritated look when the Sergeant motioned for him not to do so. Reyes soon received his answer when suddenly, both Don Carlos and Riviera began to spit out their drinks, gagging at the liquid that had been in their mouths. "…did you do this?" Corporal Reyes whispered to Garcia.
"No…he did," Garcia whispered back, his eyes darting to a figure that stood just behind Don Carlos.
"What on earth…?" Carlos sniffed the fluid and peered into the glass, his eyes widening in shock. "It's gunpowder! Gunpowder in our wine!"
"I do apologize, Señores, Señora, Señoritas…but how else could I get your attention?"
All at the table raised their eyes to see Zorro standing by the table, his sword drawn and pointed at the Commandante. Riviera fumed at this, rising to his feet. He dared not reach for his sword, however, for Zorro pointed his blade at his heart. "Tell them the truth, Commandante," Zorro smiled amiably, though his voice pierced the man like shards of ice. "Tell them how you hired those men to steal the powder so they could destroy lands. Tell them how you planned to purchase these lands and send the good dons out of Los Angeles."
"You fiend-!" Riviera bellowed, only to feel the tip of the sword press into his uniforms.
"I believe that term only applies to you, Commandante," he smirked.
"Garcia! Reyes!" the superior bellowed, drawing his sword once the masked man backed off and removed his cape. He watched in utter frustration as Zorro waved his cape mockingly like a matador before the two men, wrapped it over their heads and swung them around, knocking them into a wall. Tugging his cape free, Zorro wrapped it around his neck once more before standing en guarde, ready to fight his opponent. "You think you're a clever fox, Zorro, but you're nothing more than a coward hiding behind a mask," Riviera growled, taking large, slow strides towards him. "I'll skin you and wear your pelt as my cloak!"
"Please, Commandante! We have ladies present," Zorro teased, tapping his sword against Riviera's as he initiated the fight.
Lolita watched on in awe, holding Yolanda's hand as her little stepsister winced and cringed in fear at the sounds of battle. Each time Riviera lunged and Zorro dodged, she noticed how he staggered, still limping from his wound. "I wish I were a man…then I could help him!" she thought desperately, her heart aching as she feared for his safety. She imagined it was God's angels helping Zorro, for she could not imagine how he could have survived for so long while fighting with an injured leg.
Zorro, feeling his strength waning because of his injury had to think fast. Riviera had noticed he was wounded and was pressing him back until he bumped against the table. The family fled from there and gathered by the far corner, watching in awe and horror as the fight ensued. "You're mine!" Riviera grinned, pulling back his arm as he prepared to drive his blade home.
With one hand on the table, Zorro gripped the wineglass Riviera had drunk from and tossed it at the man's face. The corrupt commandante cried out in agony, his eyes burning from the tainted liquid. Zorro took their chance to kick him back, wincing as his bad leg pulsed in pain. He found the effort worth it as he saw the man tumble onto his back on the floor, taking this chance to carve his signature 'Z' into the man's jacket. "It has been a very memorable reunion, Commandante, but my ride is waiting," Zorro said, saluting Riviera mockingly. Bowing to the family and tipping his hat, he bid them a good night and hurried out through the kitchen.
Lolita ran to the window, peering out to see him. Sure enough, he passed by the hacienda moments later, mounted on his faithful steed. A sigh of relief escaped her, a proud smile gracing her lips. "It's all right now," she thought to herself. "He's all right."
~Z~
By the time the mess had been cleaned up, the guests shooed politely out of the house with the criminals and missing powder, and all had gone off to bed, it was well past eleven in the evening. Lolita bid her family a good night before going upstairs and washing for bed. As she brushed her long ebony locks, she walked to the windows and opened them, standing on the balcony and gazing into the night. It felt lonely not having her secret guest in the room, but she was happy to see him run off, finally able to move somewhat, and appearing to have healed for the most part.
Turning from the window, she began to walk to the bed when the soft sound of a single horse approaching the hacienda earned her attention. Rushing to the window, her eyes widened and her heart leapt for joy as she saw Zorro stop under her window, waving at her.
"Wait a moment!" she pleaded softly, running to grab her robe. Throwing it on, she tiptoed down the stairs and out through the kitchen. No sooner had she stepped into the working place, she squeaked as Consuela popped out from behind the table and grabbed her arm. "Consuela-!"
"Another rendezvous, hermanita?" she smirked.
"Oh, please, Consuela! He's just under my window, I don't want him to hurt himself-!"
"Ay caramba," the servant sighed, rolling her eyes. "Go. But I will be watching close by."
"Gracias," Lolita beamed, kissing the woman's cheek before running out. Shutting the door after her, she hurried as quickly as she could, seeing him get off of Tornado before he turned around to face her. "Zorro!" she exclaimed softly, throwing her arms around him and accepting his embrace. "You came back!"
"Of course I came back, chiquita," he chuckled, running his hand through her hair before pulling back. "I had to thank you for taking care of me, giving me refuge, saving me from those men…you saved my life."
"I did nothing of the sort," she blushed, shaking her head modestly. "I only wanted to help, especially after you've saved me so many times."
Zorro placed his hands on either side of her face, looking deep into her eyes. "…you never once removed my mask…why?"
"Out of respect. If you ever choose to show me who you really are, then I will accept you with all my heart no matter what. I understand why you wear it, however…so I couldn't bear to think of taking advantage of you and do such a thing," she answered honestly, placing her own hands on either side of his face.
His heart swelled upon hearing those words, so many things racing through his mind that he wanted to say to her at this moment. "…I promise you, Lolita, someday you will see who is beneath the mask…but for now, I ask that you be patient with me."
She nodded, a tender smile showing on her soft pink lips. "…you should go home, rest. Your leg still needs to heal."
He nodded back in agreement, remaining where he was. "…may I kiss you good night?"
With her cheeks tinted pink, she inclined her head and closed her eyes. Zorro pushed his sombero back just a smidge before taking the girl into his arms and claiming her lips. He could feel her heartbeat speed up against his chest, smell her delicate perfume. He wished he could sweep her off her feet and onto Tornado, take her away and never let her go…but he knew it was too soon to have anything like that happen. He could not rest until Riviera was taken care of and exposed to all. Pulling away reluctantly, he took her hand and kissed it, whispering, "Hasta luego, Lolita." Mounting his horse, he tipped his hat to her and rode off, letting Tornado gallop as quickly as he wanted to. Though his leg ached, his heart felt as though it was bursting, both from happiness and despair. When that day came, when Lolita saw that Zorro was just Diego de la Vega, would she still love him no matter what?
It felt like hours before he finally arrived at the secret entrance of the hidden cave, his face lighting up when he saw both his father and Bernardo awaiting his arrival. Both men rushed up to him as he got off and led Tornado into his place.
"Diego!" Alejandro beamed, taking his son into his arms and embracing him tightly. "Can you make it up the stairs?"
"I think so," Diego nodded, accepting his father's help as he leaned on him. "Bernardo, make sure Tornado had plenty of water and hay." Leaving the servant with his steed, he trudged up the steps with his father until they arrived at the secret room hidden behind his bedroom wall. "I'm sorry I couldn't come sooner-"
"Don't be ridiculous, Diego. Consuela and Bernardo kept me posted on everything," Alejandro waved it off, assisting his son in undressing from his black costume and into his nightclothes. He glanced over to the young man as he added casually, "Lolita Pulido is certainly a brave woman to have kept you hidden away, risking her life and honor for you if she were caught."
"Yes…yes, she is," Diego mused, her face and kiss still fresh on his mind. Realizing what his father was insinuating, he faced the old man, his face solemn. "Father, you once told me that California needed Zorro…and it is true. You stopped me from exposing myself in Monterey so I could be with Ana Maria…I listened to you then, and I don't regret it. Ana Maria didn't love me as a person, but as some magical hero that appeared just in time. But now…now I know that Lolita is the one. I love her, Father. If this is not enough to prove that she loves me back-!"
"She loves Zorro, Diego…and I do believe she has strong feelings for Diego de la Vega…but you must make those feelings stronger! She must love both sides of you and be willing to accept the difficulties that come with being the wife of The Fox!"
Diego blinked his wide brown eyes, stunned by his father's words. "…you approve?"
"Even Zorro must consider his future," Alejandro jested before becoming serious again. "Do you feel serious about her? Can you imagine the two of you having children together, perhaps even one of them taking on this alter ego once you cannot anymore?" Alejandro persisted, crossing his arms over his chest.
"With all my heart and soul, Father," Diego answered, his eyes shining with hope. Grasping his father's arm, he insisted, "I would die for Lolita, and after seeing what she's risked this entire week, I know she feels the same. I'm just…" He paused, his eyes cast to the ground.
"What is it?"
"…I want her to love Diego without comparing him to Zorro. She's never done so, but after being with Zorro for a week-"
"I've seen how you two are with one another. You must have faith in yourself, my son, and faith in her. If she truly loves you, she will love both sides of you regardless of who you are." Embracing his child, he reassured him, "You will win her heart, Diego, you must. If there is anyone who can win Lolita's affections, I know it is you." Pulling away, he smiled at his son, who in turn returned the smile with a grateful look. "Now, let's get you into bed. You can't woo a woman on crutches!"
~Z~
Pulling up to the outside of the Pulido hacienda, Ricardo parked the carriage and took his guitar out. It had been over a week since he saw Lolita in her room, claiming to be ill, and he had been coming almost every other day, trying to win her affections. Carlotta's tormented face continued to bother him in his memory, but he persisted after Lolita. He wanted to be the one to tame her, and he had to do it while Diego was out of town. Tiptoeing around the house, he found the balcony window of her room and positioned himself, strumming a few cords to tune the guitar.
"So, what are you going to sing?"
Ricardo raised his head, feeling his stomach twist in disappointment as he heard the familiar voice. Heaving a sigh, he looked around to see Diego and Bernardo dismount from their horses and walk up to him, both of them holding guitars. "Diego," he said at last, forcing a smile on. "I thought you were still visiting your relative."
"I was, but I came back with a cold. I felt better last night so I thought that maybe I'd stop by. I've missed visiting the Pulidos," he answered brightly. It had been almost four days since he left Lolita's home and rested in his own room. Consuela kept sending her salve to help him and this morning he found that he could stand and move a few paces without feeling the soreness of his leg. "So, what were you going to sing today?"
"Oh, nothing…" Pursing his lips, he figured he could at least charm Lolita with his voice. He admired himself on being able to make women swoon when he played under their windows, which gave him a boost now as he cocked an eyebrow at Diego. "Say, would you care to wager a bet?"
"I don't need your money, but that is most thoughtful of you," Diego reassured him, nearly causing Bernardo to burst out grinning.
"Very funny," Ricardo rolled his eyes. "Have you heard of 'Mi Rosa del Desierto'?"
"Who hasn't?"
"I'll sing the first half, you sing the second. Whoever gets Lolita to come down and greet him gets to spend the rest of the day with her with no interruptions or interference from the opposing party," he proposed smugly.
"You seem very confident in yourself," Diego noticed, an amused smile growing on his face. "Very well, I accept the challenge."
"Then let's begin."
Together, the two men strummed their instruments, playing in time to the melody as Bernardo stepped back and watched on in curiosity. The two of them looked up to the window, singing in unison,
"Mi Rosa del Desierto,
My One True Love,
She's sharp with words and action,
But graceful as a dove."
With this, Ricardo stood forth, opening his mouth and singing loudly.
"One day while I was riding through my own desert home,
I came across a rare beautiful desert rose,
Who stood so straight and tall pointing thorns at me,
Her gleaming red skirts and lips taunting me."
The windows opened and two women stepped out, both of them peering down to see the commotion. Consuela pressed his lips into a thin line, fighting not to smile or laugh. Lolita, decked in a soft, sky blue gown with lace and with sapphire ribbons laced into her hair, made a face the moment she saw who was at her window. Ricardo continued, grinning widely at her.
"Mi rosa del desierto, My desert rose,
I love her like no other, of that I know!
And though she tries to poke and prod and send me away,
I will not give up now, I shall stay!"
Lolita huffed at him, spinning around and crossing her arms over her chest.
"Aren't you the least bit interested?" Consuela giggled behind her hand. "He has a very nice voice-"
"I don't care what kind of a voice he has, I'm not interested! How many times will it take to drill the answer 'no' into his thick head?" she scowled, perking when she heard a new voice sing.
"I saw her through the window, this sweet desert rose,
And thought myself unworthy to be at her home,
But through a miracle she came to glance down at me,
And now her eyes are sparkling so brightly!"
"Wait a moment…isn't that…?" Spinning around, Lolita felt her eyes widen and her mouth smiling as she saw Diego singing the words to her. "Diego!" she gasped, her hand coming to rest over her bosom, her heart swelling as she listened to his words. She felt blush coming to her cheeks as he sang to her, the words of the song seeming to come from his heart as his eyes gazed upon her form longingly.
"Mi rosa del desierto, My desert rose,
I'll love her 'til I die, I'm sure she knows.
I hope that in the moonlight and under the stars,
She will accept my love and take me in her arms!"
With a rather girlish giggle, Lolita took off running with Consuela hot on her tail, rushing past her parents as they stared in wonder and curiosity after her. Running through the front door, she gathered her skirts and searched them out, laughing as she ran straight for Diego and threw her arms around him. "Diego!" she exclaimed, kissing his cheek. "Your father told me you were ill!"
"With that magical kiss of yours, I'm all healed," he jested, kissing her hand at once.
"Thank you for the song, it was beautiful," she confessed, ducking her head shyly. "I've never been serenaded to before."
"Well then I must remedy that at once!" Diego insisted sternly, making her laugh once more. Ricardo's expression soured as he realized he had lost once again to Diego, for not even his dulcet voice could move this woman.
The windows from a room several paces down the wall burst open, startling them all. Carlotta came out, fanning herself as always, and batted her eyelashes. Thinking she had a suitor waiting, she looked down, only to have to crane her head to see both Diego de la Vega and Ricardo del Amo standing beside Lolita. "Augh!" she cried, stomping her foot in disdain. "Lolita Pulido, you ruin everything!" she fumed, turning away and slamming the windows after her.
Lolita and Diego shared a look, the two of them laughing after a moment of silence. "She's right, I ruin everything for her without trying," she shrugged.
"For Carlotta, perhaps. But for me, you make my days perfect," Diego attested, offering his arm to her. "Would you care to go for a morning ride?"
"I'd love to," she beamed, accepting his arm and taking off down to the stables with him. Turning, she waved to Ricardo and said, "Ricardo, go check on Carlotta, won't you? She might cheer up after having a visitor!" With that said, she rested her head upon Diego's shoulder, a warm feeling washing over her. "…Diego?"
"Hmm?" he murmured, loving being so near to her.
"Can I tell you something, and will you promise not to laugh or tease?"
"All right. I promise I won't laugh or tease."
"…I've missed you…I've missed you all this time you were away…and I never even realized it until I heard you singing and saw you beneath my balcony." Raising her head, she looked at him shyly, suddenly feeling silly and childish for having confessed such a sudden but real truth. "…are you upset with that? That I didn't realize until now, I mean."
His heart skipped a beat when she admitted her feelings, making him smile as he dared to press a kiss to her forehead. "Lolita, you have no idea how happy you've made me with those words."
A/N: The absolute cheesiness you read for song lyrics was my own invention :P Looking at this now, I realize this is a super long chapter ^_^; sorry about that! Thank you to JuliaBC for constantly taking time to leave such kind reviews! Hope you all enjoy this one and I'll see you next time!