My apologies for taking this down and reuploading! There was something not right about it and I had to make a change in the party scene which I feel is a lot better now. The rest of the chapter is the same except for the party scene! Thanks again for your support and critiques! I take them seriously!
Chapter 4 Celebrations
Sergeant Garcia was given leave for lunch and he and Diego had lunch together and passed the time. The pueblo was coming to terms with their fallen hero and slowly began moving on with life.
"Ah, the Capitan had us bury the body of El Zorro this morning."
Diego sipped his wine; he wished he could have looked at the body and investigated it for himself.
"…Senorita Verdugo is handling it rather well."
"What, Sergeant?" Diego turned when the rotund frowned.
"I said, Senorita Verdugo is handling it rather well," a slight grin appeared on the sergeant's face.
"Oh, yes, Sergeant. She is moving onward. She is strong."
Garcia nodded as the grin grew on his face, "The senorita – there's something –"
"You noticed it too, Sergeant?" Diego topped off the officer's cup.
"She seems different from our stay in Monterey," Garcia giggled, "Maybe you and the senorita could," he blushed.
Diego shook his head, "Were you talking to my father?"
Garcia gasped with a wonderful idea, "What if you escorted her to Senorita Esperon's birthday party? I heard it is going to be spectacular. Senor Esperon was kind enough to extend an invitation to us soldiers and Capitan Morales has granted permission. I do love a good party," he giggled, "Wine, dancing, wine, music, wine," he was lost just imaging it.
Diego gave a hardy laugh as he crossed his arms over his chest, "Gracias, Sergeant, that is an excellent idea," and it was not often that the plump officer had an idea worth taking. Diego was actually looking forward to the party. The pueblo could use some distraction and what better way than to celebrate his special childhood friend.
Alejandro and Gregorio descended the stairs, "May we join you, my Son?"
"Of course," the younger don gestured to the chairs opposite him as his father hung his hat on the back of his chair and sat. "How goes the business sale?"
Gregorio sighed, "I almost wished it didn't. The hassle this is becoming, yet, he is also wanting to buy several of my other prized cattle and hides that I was thinking about putting up for sale. I guess we will be a guest of Los Angeles a little while longer."
Garcia finished his last gulp then stood, "If you gentlemen will excuse me, I must be returning."
"Goodbye, my friend," Diego waved.
"How many did that make?" Alejandro pointed to the sergeant's cup.
Diego grinned as his shoulders shook, "Record of five in one sitting."
"Santa Maria," Alejandro looked after where Garcia had left, "And not even a waver out of him."
"Obviously, the sergeant can hold his liquor," Gregorio chuckled.
The door to the tavern opened and Don Cornelio Esperon entered. He scanned the room then smiled upon seeing his friends, "Ah, Alejandro, Diego, it is good to see you."
Alejandro shook the newcomer's hand, "Cornelio, I'd like you to meet Don Gregorio Verdugo from Monterey. He is here on some business."
Cornelio shook the visitor's hand, "It is a pleasure, Senor. Hope your stay has been enjoyable."
"With the de la Vega's constant dinner invitations, how could it not?" Gregorio smiled as Senor Esperon was offered a seat.
"Well, then I shall extend an invitation of my own. My daughter's birthday celebration is tomorrow night and I would love for you to come."
"I would be honored," Gregorio bowed.
Don Cornelio's eyes danced with jubilation, "Came into town to pick up Moneta's birthday present. It just arrived and right on time. I dare not show it prematurely. Wouldn't want to spoil it, but it is the most beautiful necklace all the way from France."
Diego smiled, "I'm sure she will be thrilled."
"Well," Don Cornelio stood, "I best be off, so much to do still and time is slipping away."
"Buenas noches, my friend," Alejandro bid him goodbye.
"There you have it, you now have an excuse not to come over for dinner," Diego jested.
Gregorio teased, "Don't press your luck, if I don't leave soon, you may find yourselves with permanent dinner guests."
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Don Diego and his father exited the tavern and went to untie their horses. Don Alejandro caught the Commandante riding up on his horse and about to cut across the pueblo.
"Commandante," Alejandro flagged him down.
The Capitan turned and dismounted as the elder don approached him, "Ah, Senor de la Vega, what can I do for you?"
Diego joined his father just as he asked quietly, "Do you have any leads as to the identity of the man you recovered?"
Capitan Morales hesitated, "Don Alejandro, Don Diego, I am not at liberty to discuss the matter."
"Was he murdered? Was it an accident?"
"All I can say is that steps have been taken in discovering his identity," the Capitan said politely.
Alejandro stepped closer, "Is there not anything you can tell us? The dons are sitting on the edge of our seats."
"Father, let the man do his job," Diego nodded as the Capitan bowed in appreciation.
"My apologies, I could not help you, Senor. Good day," Morales turned and walked his horse to the cuartel.
Don Alejandro tsked in frustration then mounted his horse. His son followed suit and they rode out of the pueblo in silence. Halfway home, they slowed their horses at an even pace, "This is insufferable," the elder don finally stated.
Diego shrugged, "We have to trust that how he is handling it is best for Los Angeles."
"But to keep us in the dark. That poor man cannot be buried without his name, without his family knowing," Alejandro turned in his saddled, "Maybe the real Zorro should pay Morales a visit and see what else he is not telling us."
Diego shook his head, "No, I cannot bring Zorro back. Not yet. The Commandante is capable and is doing the best he can. We have to believe that."
Alejandro shook his head, "How you can just sit back is beyond me."
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The next night, the de la Vegas and the Verdugos arrived together at the hacienda of Don Cornelio Esperon. They could already hear the lively music and the excited chatter.
Diego helped Anna Maria down. She looked lovely with her hair pinned back, in a dark purple evening gown and a string of white pearls around her neck. They exchanged excited glances as he took her hand in his arm and escorted her inside.
Anna Maria gasped with girlish glee at the party that was already in full swing. The courtyard was decorated with lanterns and streamers and bows were tied to the trees. A small band was strumming music and people were already dancing. There was a refreshment table on the far side of the patio next to the musicians. If people were not dancing, groups of guests were huddled together casually passing the time.
"Alejandro!" Don Cornelio greeted them, "Gregorio, so glad you could make it. And this must be your beautiful daughter, Anna Maria," he smiled as he took Anna Maria's hand and gave it a squeeze.
"Gracias, Senor. Thank you for inviting us," she returned.
"Please, help yourself to refreshments," Don Cornelio patted Diego on the shoulder and went to mingle.
Alejandro took Gregorio away to introduce him to more of his friends and Diego looked down at Anna Maria.
"Well? Would you like to dance?" he gestured a swooping hand to the dance floor.
"I thought you'd never ask," Anna Maria took his hands and let him whisk her into the flow.
Several of the senoritas gathered together and stared at the unknown beauty in Don Diego's arms. They commented on her clothes, the style, her hair, and wondered who she was and where she came from.
When the music ended, the musicians were rewarded with light applause. Diego lingered a kiss on her hand, "I shall get us some punch," he squeezed her fingers as he led her past the musicians to the lavish table. "Ah, the birthday girl!" Diego caught Moneta pouring herself some punch. He kissed her on the cheek, "Happy birthday."
"Thank you, Diego," the birthday girl was donned in a beautiful pale pink dress with an exquisite emerald and ruby necklace gracing her neck. Her dark hair was braided in a bun and her feathered bangs dangled on her forehead.
"May I introduce, Anna Maria Verdugo. She is visiting with her father from Monterey."
Moneta gasped, "You're Anna Maria!? It is so nice to finally meet you!" She took the newcomer's hands in hers.
Anna Maria laughed, "It appears my reputation precedes me. I hope it's not a frightening one! Many blessings on your birthday. Thank you for having me."
"Of course! I just love meeting new people, especially old friends of Don Diego," Moneta eyed Diego coyly.
"If it is all right with you," he turned to Anna Maria, "I would like the pleasure of dancing with the lady of honor."
"Please," Anna Maria gestured to the dance floor and Diego escorted Moneta out.
"What a beautiful dress," Anna Maria turned to a woman in a dark blue dress covered in lace. She was in her mid to late twenties with dark brown hair, big dark eyes, and an intricate head piece tucked into her hair.
Anna Maria nodded, "Gracias, I had hoped it would be acceptable for a party, it was all I had packed. The invitation was last minute news."
"May I introduce myself? I'm Margarita Cotazar," she fanned herself with a gentle smile.
"Anna Maria?!" Another woman, petite in stature with a shrilly voice rushed to them.
"Rosarita Cortez," Anna Maria gasped, "I did not expect to see you here."
"I used to live here. I would not miss Moneta's birthday party," Rosarita exclaimed.
Margarita's eyes sparkled, "Anna Maria? From Monterey?! So you are the one!"
"I am the one?" Anna Maria chuckled in confusion.
Elena Torres had joined them, "The one that stole Diego's heart when he was visiting Monterey a few years back."
Anna Maria blushed a little, "He and I are good friends."
"Please, I remember when he returned from Monterey, he spoke of you a couple times with great fondness," a beautiful woman with high cheek bones and cat-like eyes stated, "I am Isabella Linares."
"Nice to meet you," Anna Maria nodded.
Rosarita laughed, "Did he ever tell you that he and I were childhood sweethearts?"
Anna Maria shook her head, "He is the same Diego you told me about years back?! I never made the connection. Small world."
Elena smiled, "Well, he is obviously smitten with Anna Maria now."
Rosarita nodded, "He and I are good friends now. Like brother and sister."
Margarita agreed, "Si, si. Diego is like a brother to me too. I could safely speak for all the ladies of Los Angeles who are fond of Diego."
Anna Maria frowned, "Like a brother? None of you see him more than that?"
"Diego is a wonderful man. Handsome, loyal, a gentleman," Elena explained. "I am honored to have him as a friend."
"But, he is not the type of man we have interest in – that way," Isabella furthered.
"Really," Anna Maria frowned, "Why not?"
They all hesitated, then Margarita interjected, "He does not share the same interests as the other caballeros."
"You mean a man of action," Anna Maria realized what they meant.
"I like a man of mystery, daring, adventure – I don't want it read to me from a book," Rosarita explained.
"You like Zorro," Isabella teasingly replied. All of them went quiet; the last few day's events coming to mind.
"I will always remember him fondly. He saved my mother and me – my whole family," Elena concluded.
"He saved me from making a matrimonial mistake," Margarita blushed with a small laugh remembering the times. "I was almost Diego's aunt!"
"When I last visited Los Angeles, Zorro saved my life when a commandante imposter attempted to kill me," Rosarita interjected.
"I almost married him," Anna Maria whispered and all the women went wide-eyed. "The governor gave Zorro amnesty, saying that if he gave up his mask, he wouldn't be punished. The people said he was going to ride into the plaza, take off his mask, and we were going to be married. But he didn't," her eyes watered. She quickly blinked them away and smiled, "It wasn't the right time."
They were all quiet for a moment. Isabella spoke quietly, "We all owe him a lot."
Rosarita sighed as she caught sight of Diego, "If only Diego would emulate some of Zorro's qualities. I might look past him as just a good friend."
"Do you think it wise to go around comparing people to Zorro?" Anna Maria asked.
Rosarita furthered, "No, well – Zorro is – was the most perfect gentleman."
Anna Maria shook her head, "No one is perfect – not even Zorro. If he was, he would still be alive."
"I just hope that Diego will not remain alone. He deserves someone who can complement his –lifestyle," Margarita grinned.
The patio doors opened and Sergeant Garcia and a group of soldiers entered the merriment. Garcia eyed the refreshment table immediately and almost licked his lips as he trotted over to wet his pallet. He caught the eyes of the young ladies, "Hello, Senoritas! May I offer any of you a drink?" They all shook their head and grinned as he filled his glass to the brim and downed it in two gulps. He 'ahhhed' after finishing and setting the glass down.
Margarita Cortazar laughed as she went up to the rotund officer, "Sergeant Garcia, would you care to dance with me?"
Garcia's eyes went big as he grinned from ear to ear, "Gracias, Senorita!" with that, he scooped her up in his arms and whirled her into the couples dancing.
Anna Maria looked out on the dance floor at the subject of their conversation. Had she also been subconsciously comparing caballeros that came her way to the elusive Fox? Was that why she had never found someone to truly fall in love with? Diego was the only one who she had seemed to be completely comfortable with and maybe she too had fallen into that trap of treating him like a brother. She had noted that he had changed since she last saw him in Monterey, but had she not truly seen him for who he was? Had she been comparing him to Zorro? Anna Maria grew irritated with herself and took out her anger on her fan as she vigorously waved it. Diego was more than a brother to her, but what exactly was he?
Moneta expertly followed Diego's lead. She glanced over at the herd of ladies, "Uh, oh, they have cornered poor Anna Maria."
Diego looked as they twirled, "She is strong, she can manage. Tell me, though, if I need to intervene."
Moneta giggled, "I have to admit, her reputation does not do her justice. She is beautiful."
"That she is," Diego twirled her around then caught her smoothly in his arms.
"And did you know that your feelings for her are quite obvious?" Moneta raised an eyebrow with a mischievous grin.
Diego shook his head, "We are friends, Moneta."
She chimed a laughed, "Diego, do you know who you are talking to? I know you and how you think. You are head over heels for her."
Diego spun her then caught her. Was he really? Were his feelings that apparent? He did not even realize it.
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The next morning, Bernardo entered the quiet room of his master and saw the young caballero buried under the covers. Bernardo opened the curtains quite loudly, trying to give a hint.
The covers stirred a little.
Bernardo put his hands on his hips and shook his head, it's going to be one of those mornings? The mute sighed then went to the bed and grabbed the corner of the sheets at the foot of the bed. Diego grabbed his end and pulled back. Bernardo gripped and tugged harder. He finally won the battle, pulling the sheets off of the young man.
Diego just groaned and buried his head under his pillow. When that was taken from him, he covered his head with his arms.
Bernardo tapped Diego repeatedly and stopped with a giggle when Diego growled and sat up, "Bernardo, you make it impossible for a guy to get some sleep."
Bernardo huffed and put his hands on his hips. He then traced a go-tee then acted like he was riding.
"I promised my father I'd help him inventory the cattle for the drive. Si, si, I remember," Diego rolled out of bed, "why he chose to do it the day after a late night of celebrations is beyond me," he stood as Bernardo produced a pair of old work pants and an old shirt.
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With the help of several ranch hands, the de la Vegas spent the better part of the morning cataloging cattle that were ready to be sold and grouped them into sections. The younger took a swig from his canteen and wiped his forehead. The sun was growing hot.
They turned when they heard the ground reverberating. They saw a rider racing toward them and both haciendados exchanged concern looks when Bernardo came into view. The mute barely halted the mare before dismounting. He made a flurry of signs as he panted wildly.
Diego waved his hands and signed as he spoke, "Slow down, Bernardo. What is the matter?"
The ranch hands leaned in as the deaf-mute crossed his arms over his chest, traced a 'Z' in the air and held up two fingers.
Diego signed as he spoke, "There is another Zorro?"
Bernardo nodded emphatically and crossed his arms over his chest.
"Another dead Zorro?"
"Senor, what does that mean? Was the first body El Zorro or the second?" A ranch hand asked.
Diego and Alejandro exchanged puzzled glances.
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Diego rushed into the pueblo with Bernardo and found a crowd of vaqueros, peons, even several dons were spotted all standing at the cuartel gates. The Commandante was on his horse and projected his voice over the frantic cries of the crowd, "Yes, yes, it is true, there has been another man dressed up like Zorro and he was found dead."
"Who is he?" A voice called out.
"Was it Zorro?" Another voice from the crowd questioned.
The Commandante shook his head, "I do not have an answer at the present time, but rest assured, the matter will quickly be taken care of, their. If you have any news or information regarding the deaths, please do not hesitate to come forward. You have nothing to fear. Just continue about your business."
The crowd slowly dispersed, the hushed whispers rustled through the people.
Diego was deep in thought and was almost startled when someone grabbed his leg, "Diego!"
"Anna Maria, are you all right?" Diego dismounted and Bernardo took his masters reins.
She nodded, "I knew it. I knew he could not be dead. My condolences go out to the men who have perished, but I just knew they couldn't be him. He is still alive. I can feel it."
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That night, Alejandro, Diego and Bernardo sat on the patio; reasoning out possibilities and theories. Each time they were met with an unsolvable answer.
Bernardo finally made the sign of the 'Z'.
Diego slowly nodded, "Si, it looks like Zorro will be coming out of retirement."