Monday, August 12, 2013
Quills (Chapter Five)
Back in Los Angeles I am in my apartment relaxing, happy to be home watching t.v. on the couch. The 10 o'clock news is on. Nothing but the news of local current events and what not. I retire to my room, take a change of clothes and hop into my bed with Mojo. Not ten minutes later, I hear the sound, of the familiar voice, Malena is calling through reverberating the halls walls. "Listen to your spirit guides, Listen." she says, I sit up and walk over to the door. I hear more sounds of whimpering dogs. They are spirit dogs? I think to myself, turning putting my shoes on I am in my robe, taking it off. I walk over to the front door, leaving it unlocked, walk down the corridor and to the left out of my building. I see the Cul-DE-Sac with parked cars. The whimpering gets louder. I see the spirit dogs appear from the nothingness under the street light, prowling and pawing, sniffing the grass nearby. Disappearing and immediately reappearing in front of my apartment building. Their gaze watching my every move in waiting. The coyote dingo prancing his head up and down as if to call me out. I think the coast is clear so I move forward and still to where they are. The wolf sits and I bend to my knees to pet her, it is a she. Suddenly I hear a shout, a yell. The spirit dogs perk up their ears are in alert. I watch, but there is no one, no traffic. Something tells me there is danger and the dogs walk to the nearby stop sign. I do not know if I should follow, but I do. When I am at the stop sign I hear the scraping of skateboards and the holler of hoodlum's, the ska rats are roaming the neighborhood. The dogs licking my fingers catch my attention. I should go back, I say to them and walk over to my building, up the stair and back in. Once I am at the door I stop, turn back and call the dogs over to me to follow. They do not and disappear into the night.
I don't know what to do, I say under my breath and close my apartment door shut locking it. I'm not going to be able to rest at peace with all the happenings. I am in the bathroom. I stare into the mirror, my eyes are red, bloodshot. The bathroom light stars to flicker on and off. I need to change the light bulb. So I first run to the kitchen to get the foot stool and an extra light bulb. Jumping on the counter top of the sink I unscrew the decorated hard covering to the ceiling light, unscrewing it. It drops out of my hand and to the floor, shatters the bulb. I continue the process and put in place like it was before. Bending down I whisk my way to quickly missing the to step on to the foot stool and my foot hits the shattered bulb just to the corner of my pink toe. At first I notice nothing - when I walk over to get the broom to pick up Bleeds are on the bulb. Oh gosh! hand to foot I touch blood and see it pulse out more and more. Darn it! and move with clearing. The next thing is to bandage this up don't want to get an infection. Band - aids, Alcohol, Hydrogen Peroxide and Excedrin I need. There something wrong and the ground and bathroom light shuts off again, the whole apartment is rattling. I hear all door slam and I can not leave the bathroom. It won't open. I hear knocks and Knocks and glass break. Sliding of movement and meows, cupboards flowing out, clanging bangs. Pulse racing, I am heated up, temperature rises more and more. Itching burning sensations comes over my body. I can't stop itching the rash heat. I rip open my shirt and take off my close one by one. Still noises all a round. It's has to be the Apocalypse somehow. I sit on the closed toilet for a while and wait for the ground to shake, but instantly I feel the point of a sharp object and I rise from where I am, searching down. Nothing! Nothing!
Burst open wounds of light all over my skin and pushing through are see through needles, pins like the ends of knives. I'm bleeding all around.
(Meow - Meow)
I twist my head at attention, knowing it's a unfamiliar cat's call. M o j o !
mojo!
(M E O W !)
Turn to the mirror it is slashed and broken. My face left untouched my eyes are lighter. I've changed, even the color. Gaunt skinned and teeth ultra white with lips turning dark, like mars black. The inside of my mouth is the darkest of green, coughing up spewing out slime. The inside of my mouth is lighter, but not much of a difference, gums are dark brown. I can not recognise myself. I can't touch myself.
The swift fade in and out of voices. "Doña Marina", "Doña Marina", "La M a l i n c hé, La Malinché"
Stops everything stops, the noise, the clatter and I hear no meowing whatsoever. The door clicks open and slowly comes ajar. Instantly, the needles pull back from the surface of my skin, the whole still left open and swollen. I take a deep breath and sigh and move out of the bathroom to the hallway, through my bedroom. All is trashed around nothing in it's place. It's a catastrophic mess. Mojo! I yell out loud and scan the room for her, but she is no where to be found. Out the door she must have gone. I pick up my coat and run outside. I have forgotten I have no shoes on, so I jot to slip them on. I must find her!
In flux, dashing out through another neighborhood, until finally I see not realizing it it's dark out. and I feel the slow draft run throughout my long coat. My rational comes to after I notice my heart rate has got me hyperventilating. I realize it, she's gone. My eyes water and I look down crying. Just at the precise moment. The cool fly static sound free the Ska Rats out from the nooks of the surrounding area, like spawn kins.
Quills fly from my fingertips as I hear Malena whisper to me,
"Let them know the power of La M a l i n c hé."
A Ska Rat hands extend to me and another rat comes from behind. Bit by bit grows the needles down my spine, down to my legs. I can feel my pours swelling open, tears the skin with a sting. Ska Rats grow closer, by and by the needles pinned my finger tips. Spreading my arm's I see the shadows of more rats racing out from the background. My screams lead what seems like hundreds of quills shoot from my skin, stalking after the skaters, most missing their mark. Heed my warning, I say loudly and nervously back my step away from their gathering. My eyes trace their step and on to their faces, but the mask they wear are impenetrable, no features of the skin, void of all likeness of humans, like creatures of the night. From the assent one Ska Rat vapors out from the crowd to pry and remarks his curiosity. "What's the matter, home fries you wanna smack!" he says and it's the same Rat that bothered me from before, the one who threw Eloy to the floor, nearly breaking his foot. He lifts his mask starring back at me, he's only a kid. Nervous I shake my head, letting him know what I will do if I catch him or his gang again. He strikes swiftly with a swipe of his hand at my long hair. Returning a stance of authority, saying "Why don't you be one of us, instead of prowling the night with your pretty boy Pete." lowering his hand back into file "You see I own the night and here are my soldiers. Where are you?" I try to answer to late, the sass of their pack closes in. The Rat behind me pulls both of my arms back and in a fit I solve his grip releasing with a back kick. No back talk I argue enraged swinging the unearthed tipped needle knives that are extending from the pours of my body. Cut by cut with deep slash marks incapacitate diffusing his weight. He falls to the ground.
They all run down the street and separate in different directions. The one I have rises up from the ground and runs away fast. I run and follow faster until I see him jaunt down an alleyway not far off from where I live. Catch him cold in the shadowy corner near the dumpster. I stop in front of him and look up in the heavenly night sky, yelling out. Is this what you want of me? Is this how I am meant to atone the sins of La Malinché? I voice a buzz in the alley bouncing back with the echo.
I am tranced and our stares frozen. His torn clothes are all I see and it gives him a chance to take up and get away. I am lost and I turn, but he is too fast at least I do not chase after. The wetness of kisses of the wolf-dog licking my hand summons my thoughts back and I close my eyes, when I open them I am in my Apartment. Head down, hand to the breakfast table to see my notepad left open with the words written in someone else's handwriting, La Malinché. At that precise moment I think I hear something, like a roar of an engine. An SUV cruises up to my Cul-De-Sac sidewalk and idles outside. It looks ominous. Pounds at the door like one by one repeating with furor. Heading straight for the door, I look out through the peep hole and open it up... it's Eloy. I let him in with out saying a word, no hello, nothing, but a guiding of my finger to hurry over to follow me to the window. He is trying to say Hello, but he gets it with no sound.
-Outside the black SUV is parked. Inside there is a woman holding a gun. Reveal a woman, brown curly haired who looks up at Luisa Sandoval's Apartment window, she smiles.-
The end... for now!
( Copyright © 2013 April 'Espinola' Delgado. All rights reserved.)
Saturday, August 10, 2013
A Wolf in the Desert (Chapter Four)
"Hop up! Come on!" A voice awakens me from somber sleep. When I open my eyes to look out there is a dog licking my face, a black wolf and then another walking about sniffing the dirt. I can feel the hard ground beneath and hear light footsteps nearby. I'm not frightened by them, but they aren't normal looking dogs. The other one looks like a Coyote or Dingo. Quick like the Coyote one nods his head up, as if to alert to something in the distance. I turn to look and I see a figure in the distance watching the current of the ocean. It turns and walks slowly over to me. The dogs run along after the moving figure and follow it back to me. It seems to be a woman, with purple and blue dress with an over coat. She calls for me to get up. When she is closer she says with a voice in monotone "It is time to take a walk.". This is the woman! It has to be... I slowly get up. I'm wearing some kind of white garb. She is 40-ish, with a beautifully, dark commanding presence. I shake off the sand as we take a walk along the beach. I look away to how I got here, where I started from. How it all happened and what happened to the old Curandera, because there is no temple nearby. Who are you? I turn back to her and ask. She smiles with hand to her chest she answers, I am La Malinché or rather was. You... You're La Malinche, Doña Marina? My mouth wide open just about to laugh, like all people of Mexico I know exactly who La Malinché is. Doña Marina smiles at me and begins to explain, "I know, you have been taught I was a traitor to my people. In my lifetime my name was Malena, and I would like it if you would do the same. Now come, walk with me. It is time for you to find out."
We walk some more and she touches me and as soon as I feel her touch I am shown a vision.
An Aztec temple in the year 1505. A young husband and wife of upper middle class nobility have a brand new baby girl. "Like you, I experienced a very different life than that which my birth promised."
"As a child everything was mine. I wore fine clothes. I attended fine schools, I tasted find foods. After my father died, when I was 9, my mother remarried. Nine months after that, she bore my Stepfather a son. My Stepfather had a cold and greedy heart, and wanted his son to be the family's only heir. He ordered my mother to kill me, but in the end, she did not have the heart. Instead, she sold me into slavery. Over the next years, I slaved for many tribes, and I learned many dialects. And then, when I was 14 years old, I was sold to the Spanish conqueror Hernando Cortez. Cortez was a difficult and often cruel man, but he was also very wise, and capable of great kindness. I became his personal translator as he marched across Mexico, and later... I became his mistress. I know people - Indians - believed that I was the traitor who told Cortez where to find the villages he conquered, but it is not true. I am the one who convinced Cortez to spare Indian lives. It was I who persuaded him to leave some villages standing, and translated agreements where I could. I saved Indian lives! I did not sacrifice them!"
"In 1505 I gave birth to Cortez's son, Don Marco, who was the first Mexican. The first to combine the fierce blood of the Aztecs with the passionate blood of the Spanish. He bore the first mark of the cactus people."
You are a direct descendant of Don Marco. I say. "and, in turn of mine. It is up to you to right the wrongs of the past and free me from this world between the worlds. I asks how I can be expected to do such a thing - These are ancient problems, and I live in a modern world now. "Now is not now, but they do. They exist in the hearts and minds of our people. This is your history, and it up to you to set it right. You have already been given gifts to help you. She points to the wolf and coyote walking with us. I do not understand, but listen some more. Then La Malinché says, "It is time to go."
but I do not know where to begin, which way? I say. Malena says, "Always follow the dogs." pointing to them up ahead in the distance. Feeling a little faint, I walk ahead and follow. I peak back and Malena is gone, my point of view returns to the dogs and suddenly they vanish, like ripped out from time, then I am time warped.
Awake to find myself back at the old Curandera temple. I am shivering, it is cold and damp. Old Curandera is hovering about and chanting in an Aztec dialect that I have only heard in the amazons of mexico. He is holding a bowl that looks to be steaming hot, raising it up and lowering it down to my mouth and says, "Please drink. This will make you feel better." I drink the serium and it warms me up instantly, a few seconds later my vision wavers and I blank out.
( Copyright © 2013 April 'Espinola' Delgado. All rights reserved.)
Tuesday, August 6, 2013
The Confrontation (Chapter Three)
Calling a cab at 6:00 in the morning is the easiest thing I will be doing today. Hola Señor, ¿Cuánto es el valle a Tabasco paseo? I say, to the taxi driver already parked in front of the hotel. "Ah, Señorita that is too far! It's a few hours away from here." He says and pauses like it will be a pain in the ass to drive. I think about how much that will be and say, Well, the cost doesn't matter. I need to get there right away. Can you estimate. Ahhh, ¿Me puede dar una estimación de precio? "Si, dos sien. doleras Americano." He says, and smiles with his teeth. Sí! I say and jump in the back seat.
He shouts over the traffic around us as we take off "Okay, let's go!" The drive is more than what I expected, not surprised by what he charges. We are both quiet throughout the journey, except I ask him his name, he says "Luis" listening to the Mexican Radio station of old Ranchero classics gone past. I laugh to myself isn't much different from home, not too far off the map. The roads are bumpy, lots of scenery, beautiful country what better to keep my mind off work. Grandmother lives on a small ranch with my uncle. I can't wait to hear what her greeting will bring, shame or guilt for the long absence. The night looks pitch dark through the skyline, otherwise not a bad ride. Grandma is living large these days hurting the pocket book, being more envious. Not owning a home puts me at a disadvantage in some respects and living alone is hard, trying to make it in a big city without the support of family, still paying on my student loans. When we arrive to the ranch, looks dark, looking out the window. I can see a little bit of light coming from the kitchen window. Someone must be cooking dinner. I think with big smiles.
The cab driver opens my door, heading for the trunk to help me with my things. Luis is his name, I barely get it right at the end of the trip, horrible with remembering a name. He's a sweetheart helping me with my luggage to the door. Thank you, Luis! I can take it from here. I hand over the cash and leave him a good tip of 20 dollars. I knock three times, in a moment she opens the door to greet me. It's such a joy to see her face, with big hugs I hold her and say, Grandma Hello, I missed you, it's such a joy to see you! "You're here! What a surprise... why do you stay away so long stranger? Come in... I'm making some fresh bread." She says with a rapid tone and swoosh of words rolling off her tongue. She stands 5 foot tall in front of me, that with the waft of Mexican bread. It's good to be home. Ahhh, the awesome sent of fresh bread, I interrupt her response with salutations and more hugs.
"Hija, have a seat. I'll prepare some lunch for you. Have you eaten?" She asks, and I respond and say, No. I woke up right away this morning and came right over. I'm here for work, a conference. Stuffing my mouth full of bread. All the while, she is speaking in English my grandmother never talks in Spanish. I wonder why. "Yes, you always visit when it is for work. I always want to ask you why is that, don't you want to live here with me and Antonio. Think about it you wouldn't have to work as hard." she consoles. Bread crumbs are falling from my mouth as I say, I have school loans and anyway, it isn't safe here. "Well, I don't know what you mean. We are safe here." she says, and I roll my eyes. The Juarez are everywhere. I would live in Mexico City, because I would have to work. My job and everything. I give nothing but excuses all the time, but it never makes any sense to her. It doesn't make any sense to me either, quite frankly. I know the real reason, but I avoid the subject completely. I'm just paranoid I tell her. Grandma sets her mouth in a hard line, shaking her head. "They are only lies planted in your head, probably from living in Los Angeles. Ignore it!" she says, while stirring her pot. What she has just said, reminds me of what's been going on. Voices in my head and I think for a minute, if I should share with her.
I have something I want to ask you. Something strange has been going on at my home. "Yes. I'm listening." she responds and tosses the tortilla at the burner's stove. I start to recollect and say, I've been hearing these odd noises, like voices, a woman's voice is more like it. "Are you living with someone!" she says, and I almost laugh. No, voices when I am alone in my apartment and also on the plane when I was arriving at the airport. It's sort of a supernatural occurrence, because I cannot explain it any other way. Do you know what I mean? She doesn't respond right away, bringing me a bowl of Caldo with tortillas and spices. Se refiere como un fantasma en su apartamento? she asks with a squinting of the eyes. Sí, a veces pienso que me estoy volviendo loca. I say, rubbing my forehead. "Have you seen a doctor. You could be... how do they say... stressed out! grandma thinking of the right words to say and takes the seat across from me at the breakfast table.
"Either that or you need to get right with your past that is what the Old Curandera would say." she says, right before she rolls her tortilla and dips it into the Caldo. No worries, maybe I shouldn't have said anything. I say and stir my Caldo as it is still steaming hot. "No, hija you have to talk about what is going on. You cannot hold everything inside. Move on." she responds and goes quiet and I don't want to talk about it anymore. I tear my tortilla in half and roll it, dipping it in the Caldo, which has meat, potatoes, carrots and squash giving the chicken broth a wonderful taste.
Grandma do you think I can stay here with you until The World Conference in Mexico City is over? I ask politely. "Of course, you can!" she replies.
Staying at the hotel didn't make any sense, when I had to visit grandmother. Neither did traveling back and forth, because of distance. I didn't think it would be a problem which is why I brought all my belongings. We retire to the living room and catch up. She wants to know what's been happening with the other relatives and how Eloy is doing. She always use to say, that we should have married and by now of course we would have children. I doubt it. I've never loved Eloy in the romantic sense. I mean he's my best friend.
I ask about my uncle Antonio. He is no where to be found. My grandmother says, "Oh, he has gone away traveling somewhere. Yes! He likes to do that sometimes. He doesn't come around for weeks at a time, but I'm fine with it. As long as he makes it back safely. He's a man darling... that is what they do. When their single." she explains and smiles drinking her cup of coffee. I'd like to ask about my Mom, if she has heard any news or seen her at all, but I'm inclined on not mentioning it at all. Don't want to go there, it will stir up so many memories. There are times when I can sense her roving the conversation for it, the asking of my Mom. Her eyes always moving around like I have missed a certain something. Not keeping to the politeness of things.
After we have caught up she takes me to the guest bedroom that she says is mine. All her grandchildren stay in this room. Painted a lovely yellowish mustard on the left wall, and Terra Cotta on the right. The window wall in the center has been untouched, off white. "Here is the alarm clock I just bought. You want to get up bright and early for your meeting. Oh darling, you've been traveling such a long way. You must be tired. She says, and lifts her hand to my face, caressing it ever so softly. "Make yourself at home and relax. There is a television set. I'll be going to bed now."
Antiguo Palacio del Ayuntamiento is where I am on this Monday Morning, 7 a.m. bright and early to meet with my legal team it's going to be a lot of work. Oh, Gloria where are you when I need you the most? I am in the Ayuntamiento's lobby, where I see Guillermo, Beer & Peralta standing with what looks like the entire office. There are T.V. reporters and camera crews filming there television spot briefs to the local news stations. Newspaper reporters taking notes and one gestures for Guillermo for a short interview before the Conference begins. We have about half and hour for the show to begin. The rest of us from the firm move into the conference hall. It's all so huge with leaders from The United States, Mexico, China and The EEU.
We are here to represent the private oil, gas and electric companies to design contracts on what will and what will not pass for energy reform, allowing for more investment. My job is to translate what is being said, (in talks) between the Mexican legal teams here and the Chinese legal team. It's a long process and these will likely be last minute negotiations between Mexico (mainly), The EEU and The United States. My eyes are roaming the entire convention floor to see who might be in the room. I spot a reporter as he seems to be explaining the economic conference on Live Television, with the world shaking hands in the background. I'll be right beside them in a few minutes. I try not to be spotted, but here I am.
Pull back to reveal that this image is on a TV screen in a house somewhere in Mexico. A woman in her early 50's-very pretty - has a newspaper in hand as she watches TV and drinks her morning coffee. Suddenly, she sees Luisa on the screen and stops ... freezes ... it's as if she's seen a ghost, or witnessed a murder. Her face turns a pale white. She has her hand to her head. Enter the woman's daughter (darkly beautiful Cristina, 25), asking her mother, "Why the dramatic face?" in Spanish. Her mother recovers from her shock and says she has a problem, and she has to go solve it. Now. Alone.
Arriving back to the hotel with Guillermo, Beers & Peralta. I decide once again, to catch a cab to Grandmothers house with the same taxi driver, Luis. We all had a grueling day and everyone seems to be pooped. Another ride to Tabasco, Luis? I say, hoping he won't be turning me down. "Jop on!" and he says it just like that. I smile and jump in the back seat. Have a good day? I ask, Luis. "eh, yes lady, what is your name again?" he asks. Name is Luisa. He He... same name! "Yes, Si!" he looks preoccupied in thought so I only make small talk when necessary.
Right on time for dinner it is 6:30 p.m. on the dot, I hand over the fair to Luis. Thank you so much, Luis. I hope you take care. Do you have a card? I may be needing a cab back to the airport. He hands me a blank card, writing his number on it. Thank you! I say and walk over to the front door of the ranch, waving goodbye. Before I get to the door, Grandmother has already the door ajar. "You're back, hija come in I am cooking dinner for us." I have my briefcase in hand and walk on over to the kitchen setting my case on the kitchen table. "hija don't do that. huh, please! she says with a sad face. I remove my suitcase and walk it over to the living room and set it on the couch and return to the kitchen forgetting my manners and ask, Would you like me to help with the dishes? She smiles, but does not answer me.
When I'm done I wipe my hands off with a towel and sit right back down. I've not yet even had a chance to tell her how the convention went, when the door bell rings I rise from my Lunch and say, I'll get it. Grandmother doesn't like it and says, "Ah, hija I'll answer it. You never know who it could be." she heads toward the living room peaking out the window ever so lightly. She looks to me and shushes me with her index finger not to say anything. I say, Who is it? in a loud whisper, she shrugs her shoulders at me. Grandma doesn't want to open up and says through the door, sweetly. "Who is it?" It's Lorna Mother, abre la puerta! Grandmother turns to me and says mouthing the words, "I am going to open the door. It's your Mother." as she points to me at the door.
No! I say loudly, but it's too late. She burst in - "Where is she? I know she's here!" Lorna my mother looks straight at me after noticing me standing there. It seems as though she cannot believe I'm here. I am puzzled, How did she know I was even here. My mouth left half open. "Thought you were dead, she says as Grandmother wedges herself between the two women as Lorna is moving closer to me. Lorna reaches out for me and by mishap my Grandmother is jostled to the side and falls, hitting her forehead on the corner of the kitchen counter. I immediately run to Grandma's side and shout at Lorna, watch what you're doing!! My Grandmother is knocked unconscious. I cannot seem to wake her up. When I look up at Luisa I say, She won't wake up. Lorna seems to be reaching for something in her pocket and slowly takes it out and heads toward me. She has what looks like a bottle or a vile and grabs my arm with one hand and grabing my chin with the other, squeezing it as tight as she can, she pours the green Liquid into my mouth. I try to think fast but the liquid has already made it past my lips. I quickly close my mouth and spurt some out and with a last ditch effort I spew it toward her with a push and a blow. Sending the liquid to rush all over Lorna's face, into her eyes, and up the nose. She starts screaming and crumples to the floor. Once she is down to the floor I make a dash over to Grandmother's side, when I listen for any movement or to hear if she is breathing I place my ear to her chest and find that her heart has stopped. She has died. I cry and my grief is overwhelming that I am knocked to the ground. I try to stand up and then begin to feel dizzy nauseous. I ingested the liquid substance, still crying at the same time. When I finally get to my feet the rush of shock hits me, as I move toward the door, off step, staggering and throwing up before I make it out the door... and then everything goes black.
A voice softly calls out into the darkness "Dona, get up. Get up" and I awaken, my vision outshines to a blast of white light - the sun down from overhead. I passed out in the desert. Lifting my head, groggy... How did I get here and where are my clothes. I'm naked. Am I dead? I'm on what looks to be a desert, the wind is blowing, sand all surrounding me, there is nothing in near sight, just a glimpse of beyond where there are trees, what looks to be a jungle and a small Aztec temple in the far distance. Struggling to get up, I begin walking toward the temple. I feel weak, my temperature rising and I try to remember what brought me here in the first place, not remember a thing. My heart begins to race and I stumble to the ground, barely have the strength to lift my arm up. I am dragging the weight of my body to further the distance and I knock on a wooden door to the Aztec temple. A man answers the door, he is dressed in Aztec ritual clothing. He looks to me like a ancient Aztec healer. He smiles when he see's me on the ground. I am a bit frightened his teeth are made up of green and purple jade. He says, "Luisa, my child, I've been waiting for you." He holds out his hand and I pass out.
I open my eyes, lying down inside a dark temple, ancient and small, built of stone and hieroglyphics painted on the walls. My eyes scan around, I see no one at first and I am unable to move my arms and legs. I see that my body is wrapped in a white sheet. Fighting to loosen the bind, it doesn't yield and I give up. What I am seeing is all so familiar. I feel as if I have been here before. The smell of sandalwood burning, leaning my head to one side and up I see a fire burning in the corner. Again, the old man appears hovering above me. His face I cannot quite place, but something deep within assures me that I have seen him before.
"What happened to me! Why am I here? The old man hushes me and says, There is no time to waste. Yes, I am the one who saved you from death, once before. The old Curandera am I. he says. It comes rushing back to me. "Oh no! Shaking my body in the tight bind that holds me. I have to get out of here, I say. He stops me and says, "Wait, hold on!" My grandmother is hurt, let me go! I exclaim. He stops me once and again saying "No need to worry your Grandmother and Mother have left to the Angels. He hushes as I struggle to free myself lose. How do you know it. Let me go this instant! "Now, simmer down. Everything will be prepared for their departing ceremonies. He applies a wet towel to my forehead. I am heated up with a fever. I look out and behind me he is working his magic. "You see it is you who is in danger and you only have so much time left." he says, and begins humming a tune which echo's through the walls. The old man walks over to me and begins to loosen me from the bind by unwrapping the cloth. "Let's see what your body looks like. Go on take a look." he says, walking away. I am lying on a flat bed of stone as I rise to sit up. I look down at my arms and legs. I see my skin is full of small holes that are swelling up. "The prophecy has come true, there is no telling what your destiny will be. Luisa, your life has changed over and over again. Ever since you fell into the pit of cactus. You have not been the same." It is a gift and then not." he says, and I am watching him at his table preparing needles by dipping them in a green creamy juice. He cooks the tip over a flame of fire.
"There is a spirit who inhabits you. This spirit of Mictlan chose you as the leader of the underworld. I saw the presence of the spirit again . A reemergence. Luisa!" he says, leaning down towards me "You see, this is important to our people." moving toward me with his prepared needles, he begins to inject the back of my spine and each and every one of the tiny holes opening up on my body. "May Mictlan guide you through your journey to the underworld. He injects another needle, and then another. Afterwords, the old Curandera prays over my body with his arms raised in the air and spread apart.
( Copyright © 2013 April 'Espinola' Delgado. All rights reserved.)
He shouts over the traffic around us as we take off "Okay, let's go!" The drive is more than what I expected, not surprised by what he charges. We are both quiet throughout the journey, except I ask him his name, he says "Luis" listening to the Mexican Radio station of old Ranchero classics gone past. I laugh to myself isn't much different from home, not too far off the map. The roads are bumpy, lots of scenery, beautiful country what better to keep my mind off work. Grandmother lives on a small ranch with my uncle. I can't wait to hear what her greeting will bring, shame or guilt for the long absence. The night looks pitch dark through the skyline, otherwise not a bad ride. Grandma is living large these days hurting the pocket book, being more envious. Not owning a home puts me at a disadvantage in some respects and living alone is hard, trying to make it in a big city without the support of family, still paying on my student loans. When we arrive to the ranch, looks dark, looking out the window. I can see a little bit of light coming from the kitchen window. Someone must be cooking dinner. I think with big smiles.
The cab driver opens my door, heading for the trunk to help me with my things. Luis is his name, I barely get it right at the end of the trip, horrible with remembering a name. He's a sweetheart helping me with my luggage to the door. Thank you, Luis! I can take it from here. I hand over the cash and leave him a good tip of 20 dollars. I knock three times, in a moment she opens the door to greet me. It's such a joy to see her face, with big hugs I hold her and say, Grandma Hello, I missed you, it's such a joy to see you! "You're here! What a surprise... why do you stay away so long stranger? Come in... I'm making some fresh bread." She says with a rapid tone and swoosh of words rolling off her tongue. She stands 5 foot tall in front of me, that with the waft of Mexican bread. It's good to be home. Ahhh, the awesome sent of fresh bread, I interrupt her response with salutations and more hugs.
"Hija, have a seat. I'll prepare some lunch for you. Have you eaten?" She asks, and I respond and say, No. I woke up right away this morning and came right over. I'm here for work, a conference. Stuffing my mouth full of bread. All the while, she is speaking in English my grandmother never talks in Spanish. I wonder why. "Yes, you always visit when it is for work. I always want to ask you why is that, don't you want to live here with me and Antonio. Think about it you wouldn't have to work as hard." she consoles. Bread crumbs are falling from my mouth as I say, I have school loans and anyway, it isn't safe here. "Well, I don't know what you mean. We are safe here." she says, and I roll my eyes. The Juarez are everywhere. I would live in Mexico City, because I would have to work. My job and everything. I give nothing but excuses all the time, but it never makes any sense to her. It doesn't make any sense to me either, quite frankly. I know the real reason, but I avoid the subject completely. I'm just paranoid I tell her. Grandma sets her mouth in a hard line, shaking her head. "They are only lies planted in your head, probably from living in Los Angeles. Ignore it!" she says, while stirring her pot. What she has just said, reminds me of what's been going on. Voices in my head and I think for a minute, if I should share with her.
I have something I want to ask you. Something strange has been going on at my home. "Yes. I'm listening." she responds and tosses the tortilla at the burner's stove. I start to recollect and say, I've been hearing these odd noises, like voices, a woman's voice is more like it. "Are you living with someone!" she says, and I almost laugh. No, voices when I am alone in my apartment and also on the plane when I was arriving at the airport. It's sort of a supernatural occurrence, because I cannot explain it any other way. Do you know what I mean? She doesn't respond right away, bringing me a bowl of Caldo with tortillas and spices. Se refiere como un fantasma en su apartamento? she asks with a squinting of the eyes. Sí, a veces pienso que me estoy volviendo loca. I say, rubbing my forehead. "Have you seen a doctor. You could be... how do they say... stressed out! grandma thinking of the right words to say and takes the seat across from me at the breakfast table.
"Either that or you need to get right with your past that is what the Old Curandera would say." she says, right before she rolls her tortilla and dips it into the Caldo. No worries, maybe I shouldn't have said anything. I say and stir my Caldo as it is still steaming hot. "No, hija you have to talk about what is going on. You cannot hold everything inside. Move on." she responds and goes quiet and I don't want to talk about it anymore. I tear my tortilla in half and roll it, dipping it in the Caldo, which has meat, potatoes, carrots and squash giving the chicken broth a wonderful taste.
Grandma do you think I can stay here with you until The World Conference in Mexico City is over? I ask politely. "Of course, you can!" she replies.
Staying at the hotel didn't make any sense, when I had to visit grandmother. Neither did traveling back and forth, because of distance. I didn't think it would be a problem which is why I brought all my belongings. We retire to the living room and catch up. She wants to know what's been happening with the other relatives and how Eloy is doing. She always use to say, that we should have married and by now of course we would have children. I doubt it. I've never loved Eloy in the romantic sense. I mean he's my best friend.
I ask about my uncle Antonio. He is no where to be found. My grandmother says, "Oh, he has gone away traveling somewhere. Yes! He likes to do that sometimes. He doesn't come around for weeks at a time, but I'm fine with it. As long as he makes it back safely. He's a man darling... that is what they do. When their single." she explains and smiles drinking her cup of coffee. I'd like to ask about my Mom, if she has heard any news or seen her at all, but I'm inclined on not mentioning it at all. Don't want to go there, it will stir up so many memories. There are times when I can sense her roving the conversation for it, the asking of my Mom. Her eyes always moving around like I have missed a certain something. Not keeping to the politeness of things.
After we have caught up she takes me to the guest bedroom that she says is mine. All her grandchildren stay in this room. Painted a lovely yellowish mustard on the left wall, and Terra Cotta on the right. The window wall in the center has been untouched, off white. "Here is the alarm clock I just bought. You want to get up bright and early for your meeting. Oh darling, you've been traveling such a long way. You must be tired. She says, and lifts her hand to my face, caressing it ever so softly. "Make yourself at home and relax. There is a television set. I'll be going to bed now."
Antiguo Palacio del Ayuntamiento is where I am on this Monday Morning, 7 a.m. bright and early to meet with my legal team it's going to be a lot of work. Oh, Gloria where are you when I need you the most? I am in the Ayuntamiento's lobby, where I see Guillermo, Beer & Peralta standing with what looks like the entire office. There are T.V. reporters and camera crews filming there television spot briefs to the local news stations. Newspaper reporters taking notes and one gestures for Guillermo for a short interview before the Conference begins. We have about half and hour for the show to begin. The rest of us from the firm move into the conference hall. It's all so huge with leaders from The United States, Mexico, China and The EEU.
We are here to represent the private oil, gas and electric companies to design contracts on what will and what will not pass for energy reform, allowing for more investment. My job is to translate what is being said, (in talks) between the Mexican legal teams here and the Chinese legal team. It's a long process and these will likely be last minute negotiations between Mexico (mainly), The EEU and The United States. My eyes are roaming the entire convention floor to see who might be in the room. I spot a reporter as he seems to be explaining the economic conference on Live Television, with the world shaking hands in the background. I'll be right beside them in a few minutes. I try not to be spotted, but here I am.
Pull back to reveal that this image is on a TV screen in a house somewhere in Mexico. A woman in her early 50's-very pretty - has a newspaper in hand as she watches TV and drinks her morning coffee. Suddenly, she sees Luisa on the screen and stops ... freezes ... it's as if she's seen a ghost, or witnessed a murder. Her face turns a pale white. She has her hand to her head. Enter the woman's daughter (darkly beautiful Cristina, 25), asking her mother, "Why the dramatic face?" in Spanish. Her mother recovers from her shock and says she has a problem, and she has to go solve it. Now. Alone.
Arriving back to the hotel with Guillermo, Beers & Peralta. I decide once again, to catch a cab to Grandmothers house with the same taxi driver, Luis. We all had a grueling day and everyone seems to be pooped. Another ride to Tabasco, Luis? I say, hoping he won't be turning me down. "Jop on!" and he says it just like that. I smile and jump in the back seat. Have a good day? I ask, Luis. "eh, yes lady, what is your name again?" he asks. Name is Luisa. He He... same name! "Yes, Si!" he looks preoccupied in thought so I only make small talk when necessary.
Right on time for dinner it is 6:30 p.m. on the dot, I hand over the fair to Luis. Thank you so much, Luis. I hope you take care. Do you have a card? I may be needing a cab back to the airport. He hands me a blank card, writing his number on it. Thank you! I say and walk over to the front door of the ranch, waving goodbye. Before I get to the door, Grandmother has already the door ajar. "You're back, hija come in I am cooking dinner for us." I have my briefcase in hand and walk on over to the kitchen setting my case on the kitchen table. "hija don't do that. huh, please! she says with a sad face. I remove my suitcase and walk it over to the living room and set it on the couch and return to the kitchen forgetting my manners and ask, Would you like me to help with the dishes? She smiles, but does not answer me.
When I'm done I wipe my hands off with a towel and sit right back down. I've not yet even had a chance to tell her how the convention went, when the door bell rings I rise from my Lunch and say, I'll get it. Grandmother doesn't like it and says, "Ah, hija I'll answer it. You never know who it could be." she heads toward the living room peaking out the window ever so lightly. She looks to me and shushes me with her index finger not to say anything. I say, Who is it? in a loud whisper, she shrugs her shoulders at me. Grandma doesn't want to open up and says through the door, sweetly. "Who is it?" It's Lorna Mother, abre la puerta! Grandmother turns to me and says mouthing the words, "I am going to open the door. It's your Mother." as she points to me at the door.
No! I say loudly, but it's too late. She burst in - "Where is she? I know she's here!" Lorna my mother looks straight at me after noticing me standing there. It seems as though she cannot believe I'm here. I am puzzled, How did she know I was even here. My mouth left half open. "Thought you were dead, she says as Grandmother wedges herself between the two women as Lorna is moving closer to me. Lorna reaches out for me and by mishap my Grandmother is jostled to the side and falls, hitting her forehead on the corner of the kitchen counter. I immediately run to Grandma's side and shout at Lorna, watch what you're doing!! My Grandmother is knocked unconscious. I cannot seem to wake her up. When I look up at Luisa I say, She won't wake up. Lorna seems to be reaching for something in her pocket and slowly takes it out and heads toward me. She has what looks like a bottle or a vile and grabs my arm with one hand and grabing my chin with the other, squeezing it as tight as she can, she pours the green Liquid into my mouth. I try to think fast but the liquid has already made it past my lips. I quickly close my mouth and spurt some out and with a last ditch effort I spew it toward her with a push and a blow. Sending the liquid to rush all over Lorna's face, into her eyes, and up the nose. She starts screaming and crumples to the floor. Once she is down to the floor I make a dash over to Grandmother's side, when I listen for any movement or to hear if she is breathing I place my ear to her chest and find that her heart has stopped. She has died. I cry and my grief is overwhelming that I am knocked to the ground. I try to stand up and then begin to feel dizzy nauseous. I ingested the liquid substance, still crying at the same time. When I finally get to my feet the rush of shock hits me, as I move toward the door, off step, staggering and throwing up before I make it out the door... and then everything goes black.
A voice softly calls out into the darkness "Dona, get up. Get up" and I awaken, my vision outshines to a blast of white light - the sun down from overhead. I passed out in the desert. Lifting my head, groggy... How did I get here and where are my clothes. I'm naked. Am I dead? I'm on what looks to be a desert, the wind is blowing, sand all surrounding me, there is nothing in near sight, just a glimpse of beyond where there are trees, what looks to be a jungle and a small Aztec temple in the far distance. Struggling to get up, I begin walking toward the temple. I feel weak, my temperature rising and I try to remember what brought me here in the first place, not remember a thing. My heart begins to race and I stumble to the ground, barely have the strength to lift my arm up. I am dragging the weight of my body to further the distance and I knock on a wooden door to the Aztec temple. A man answers the door, he is dressed in Aztec ritual clothing. He looks to me like a ancient Aztec healer. He smiles when he see's me on the ground. I am a bit frightened his teeth are made up of green and purple jade. He says, "Luisa, my child, I've been waiting for you." He holds out his hand and I pass out.
I open my eyes, lying down inside a dark temple, ancient and small, built of stone and hieroglyphics painted on the walls. My eyes scan around, I see no one at first and I am unable to move my arms and legs. I see that my body is wrapped in a white sheet. Fighting to loosen the bind, it doesn't yield and I give up. What I am seeing is all so familiar. I feel as if I have been here before. The smell of sandalwood burning, leaning my head to one side and up I see a fire burning in the corner. Again, the old man appears hovering above me. His face I cannot quite place, but something deep within assures me that I have seen him before.
"What happened to me! Why am I here? The old man hushes me and says, There is no time to waste. Yes, I am the one who saved you from death, once before. The old Curandera am I. he says. It comes rushing back to me. "Oh no! Shaking my body in the tight bind that holds me. I have to get out of here, I say. He stops me and says, "Wait, hold on!" My grandmother is hurt, let me go! I exclaim. He stops me once and again saying "No need to worry your Grandmother and Mother have left to the Angels. He hushes as I struggle to free myself lose. How do you know it. Let me go this instant! "Now, simmer down. Everything will be prepared for their departing ceremonies. He applies a wet towel to my forehead. I am heated up with a fever. I look out and behind me he is working his magic. "You see it is you who is in danger and you only have so much time left." he says, and begins humming a tune which echo's through the walls. The old man walks over to me and begins to loosen me from the bind by unwrapping the cloth. "Let's see what your body looks like. Go on take a look." he says, walking away. I am lying on a flat bed of stone as I rise to sit up. I look down at my arms and legs. I see my skin is full of small holes that are swelling up. "The prophecy has come true, there is no telling what your destiny will be. Luisa, your life has changed over and over again. Ever since you fell into the pit of cactus. You have not been the same." It is a gift and then not." he says, and I am watching him at his table preparing needles by dipping them in a green creamy juice. He cooks the tip over a flame of fire.
"There is a spirit who inhabits you. This spirit of Mictlan chose you as the leader of the underworld. I saw the presence of the spirit again . A reemergence. Luisa!" he says, leaning down towards me "You see, this is important to our people." moving toward me with his prepared needles, he begins to inject the back of my spine and each and every one of the tiny holes opening up on my body. "May Mictlan guide you through your journey to the underworld. He injects another needle, and then another. Afterwords, the old Curandera prays over my body with his arms raised in the air and spread apart.
( Copyright © 2013 April 'Espinola' Delgado. All rights reserved.)
Saturday, August 3, 2013
The Meow (Chapter Two)
I am an Interpreter for a large law firm, Guillermo, Beers & Peralta. At the office, I share a corner staple size cubicle with another translator. When I get to my desk Monday morning, I find a note that says, "Please see me in the office." written in black marker on a post it note stuck to the screen of my computer. I haven't even had a chance to take my seat and already I'm off to the principle's office. Bottom line the legal world is one of the highest competitive fields that you can imagine. This firm requires an individual to maintain the highest of ethics, demanding a strong mental capacity in order to deal with large amounts of stress at any given moment. Gloria Bernal Diaz is our head, translator and I am second to that lead, I am not as well verse in as many languages as she is. I speak 5, where she commands 12, which makes her most distinct. She holds a Masters in Economics, with an emphasis in linguistics. I was expecting Gloria to be at her chair this morning, but she must be running late. Gloria is to be starting a new family with her husband. She is pregnant.
"Good Morning!" Gloria greets me as she rushes in with her brief case in one hand and 3 books in the other. "I know, I know I'm just running a bit late this morning. Any calls yet?" I look up and stare at her, surprised that she is carrying so much in hand. I don't answer, she can see that I am clearly having a hard time getting the words out of my mouth. She looks up from what she is doing to the stack of papers on her desk and says, "Excuse me, but I like someone else." and smiles, clips her left earring off setting it on her desk. I walk over to her desk with a smirk, still not answering "Are you ready?" she asks. Gloria do you really think you should be carrying so much stuff with you? I say as I walk over to my side of the cubicle. I mean with the pregnancy that can't be too good for you! Wondering at the same time why she hasn't made it to the bad mood department this early A.M. neglecting to drop off her sense of humor at the door, keeping the punch line to herself. I wasn't getting the remark, or at least I didn't want to. I hadn't expecting the pregnancy, because she always talked about starting a family, but said it would a few years off. It might have all been a surprise to her. I put up with her nutty appetite, sarcastic persona. No big deal, right... considering she is the closest confidant here in the office. It's going to be a boy.
An audible tone pops off through the speaker phone. Yep, it's him! I say to myself. I think Gloria is already lost in her work and can't hear me talk under my breath. "You might want to offer him a cup of coffee!" Gloria teases as I head toward the break room.
I pass by a tidal wave of typewriters, phones, a Para-Legal, several secretaries and one bicycle courier signing in at the front desk with the receptionist. It's just another average day hearing them all work in sync. Walking down these walls is high stress. I enter the lounge room and head straight for the coffee maker, when I am greeted by a co-worker named James. "Good Morning, Luisa!" he says with a fake smile. Good Morning, James! How was your weekend, I ask. He replies with the usual off guard remark. "Oh! not bad. Took a short trip to Vegas... ALONE!" he says sarcastically with eyebrows raised. "How did your weekend turn up?" He says, expecting to know the outcome of my response. A slow pause and I drift away from the conversation, walking with two cups of coffee. One for me and one for my boss. Morning meetings are the pits, but he expects me to be on time. James will have to wait for the answer. You see in the office they call me No life, Luisa. It's a bit of a dig, because they know I'm always swamped with work and the talk around the water cooler is that I've never had a boyfriend. Which isn't completely true! People can be cruel when it comes to office politics, they get very caddy.
Guillermo's office door is slightly ajar. I pink through and swing it open with my foot and say, Good Morning, Mr. Guillermo! How was your Weekend? "Luisa, excellent! Thank you for the coffee, sweetheart. I hope your weekend was constructive." Not letting me elaborate or give him a positive or a negative response he continues on topic. "Let's get to the business at hand. as you know this firm has been on a tight schedule. I need to remind you Mrs. Diaz will be going on maternity leave for the next Month and a half, as of tomorrow. Of course you will be the acting lead interpreter for the office, all foreign accounts and all corresponding court cases. All of which come into effect for our jurisdiction on Wednesday. We have the International World Conference to be held in Mexico City next week." While all this information is being relayed I am taking notes and he seems to be rather busy tugging at his pink tie and staring out the window, which overlooks the city. He continues on "We would like you to join us." looking toward me with a firm glare. I reply to his gesture with a smile and say, I accept the invitation. I have been anticipating The World Conference. I am delighted to join. It is a great honor, to be attending. "Good! If you have any questions feel free to let Claudine know before tomorrow's work day ends." Claudine is his secretary. Now he is turning his large Red 3 ringed binder, searching through his notes. He archives each, every one of them. Guillermo is intelligent, in a hard noised and brash way, not in the geeky sense at all. A lovely speaker and he seems to have a difficult time lowering the Machismo attitude. When you see it flourish it's astonishing to watch. Type A personality all the way and spends a great deal micromanaging every minor detail in his lectures, not to mention the office. This temperament is exactly what makes him the lead partner, separating him from the rest.
In recent years the only way I ever feel safe visiting Mexico is with the firm. We travel with our own security, aware that there are still parts of Mexico which are infested with the Guerra's in the local towns and rural areas. You will find the more historic parts of the country the most dangerous, which is why I hardly ever go. Always news of a journalist being kidnapped on the news. Once we traveled with a reporter, who was captured by the Chiapas and he was held for ransom. I think the firm did whatever they could to return him safely. In the end, sadly they killed him. There are aspects to this profession that are not safe. What can I do. I have to carry the attitude of being delighted to be going on this convention. It is part of the job, but I don't really want to go.
1968 a Volkswagen bug, first and last car I took on the road. I do not drive anymore. Prefer to bus it to work and around town. Travel time in between destinations gives me time to think about what has been going on at home and at work. Sometimes I forget the world vastly moving about. Alone is not alone, not completely. This best part of leaving in the morning for work is the welcome home I receive from my wonderful cat companion, Mojo! This walk is always stimulating... I'm almost home. We have walls that border this city, gentrified by the nearby local community team which is made up of neighborhood children who come out every six months to beautify these border limit walls, adding a colorful touch. Don't get me wrong it's not so tranquil here. We might have rid these streets of the old crooked street gang, Frog town who roamed years ago, but their legacy lives on through the Ska Rats. I'm home.
I have distant relatives close by nephews, cousin and aunts. The majority of my family live outside of this country. My Grandmother lives in Mexico and for the most part she loves it, with the exception of me not living closer to her. She is a constant reminder that I should be married by now. She wonders how I can live life alone. I try not to think about it all that much. Every night I come home to the same companion, who is the greatest of company and who knows, someday there may be someone special in my life.
It doesn't look like I'll be getting any work done tonight. Just a cozy night on my own by the television with this lovely Carne Asada dinner I made for myself. I love tea! Absolutely...
9:30 p.m. and I get myself into bed after a nice shower, tucking in right under the covers with Mojo at the foot of my bed. After awhile of tossing and turning, I can't sleep, intermittently peaking at the clock, worried that I won't be getting any sleep before morning. My mind occupied with the office trip to Mexico. When I'd say about half past 10 the indescribable happens, you wouldn't believe it, because I still do not. A woman's voice echoes through the apartment walls. She is speaking in English separated by pauses and from what I can tell it seems like more of a chanting rant, because of the continuous flow of her words. I instinctively reach for the Baseball Bat at the side of my headboard, sitting upright on my bed with sheets down I glance at Mojo for a second. Most of the hairs on her back are standing at attention. I look for shadows in the halls, footsteps, anything to let me know someone had broken into the apartment, but nothing. There is a quietness for a moment. The voice stopped. Half-hour passes, If someone wanted to come in and get me, they would have already done so. I think to myself and I turn the out the light, lie in bed, gaze up at the ceiling, puzzled and fall asleep.
"Here is your itinerary. It's the red-eye. Have a safe flight!" Guillermo's secretary Claudine says, while handing over the flight ticket and paperwork.
This is no ordinary case, it is an international affair. Today is Friday and tonight we leave for Mexico on what will be the biggest assignment yet. It is total chaos at the office and my beeper is constantly ringing. It's Eloy paging me frantically, when I get the chance I pick up my phone to call him. What's up! I say as he answers the phone. I'm a tad busy with work. I just wanted to return your page, what is the emergency? "Luisa, yo preferiría si me dices que va pa México, no en el último minuto" he says to me in Spanish over the phone. You mean to have notified you before hand? I answer him in English. There is a silence and it seems like he laughs under his breath. Anyway, I'll let you know the minute I return from the trip. I say with a smile and assure him the trip will be a positive success, nothing will go wrong. Goodbye! I let go of the conversation before I hang up the phone.
Another night of packing up and getting ready for air travel. I'm ready as I will ever be, going to miss home and of course Mojo. Oh and I will miss Eloy, poor guy I give him a hard time and when I think how hard he tries to take care of me. I am grateful to have such a loyal friend. Feeling guilty about the phone conversation from earlier and cutting him off. I leave him a note here in my apartment. He will be stopping by to feed Mojo periodically. I hope he isn't too mad at me. Well, my shuttle will be here soon, no sense going over it. I hate sorry letters...
I have to do a lot of traveling for my career and all expenses paid for traveling on an airplane and hotel accommodations is not all bad for what seems to be one of the most unnatural things to do in life, flying on an airplane. When I arrive at the airport my thoughts run rapid and of course I always think to myself, this could be the end. No matter what!
Claudine put me in coach and I have a window seat. I see Guillermo and the rest of the partners of the firm up in first class. Hopefully I'll get a seat near Claudine, she's always cool to chit-chat. I wish Gloria could be traveling with us, she must be loving her leave of absence. I place my bag in the over head compartment and just before I take my seat I spot Claudine who is over in first class with Guillermo. Lucky girl! Guess it's just me this time.
I like to keep watch over the wings, sorry habit, watching out for things that might not happen, the fluttering movements during the flight. It's the negative part of me. Who likes turbulence anyway. The way I see it, the real perk to this hour of travel is the empty seats which allow for more leg room to take a load off. I take a magazine in front of me and start reading it. I read of all the wonderful places to travel to Portugal, Italy and Spain. Spain, now wouldn't that be lovely. I've never been to Spain. When I was a little girl I would dream about getting married and how going there would make a most beautiful honeymoon. Ah, dreams what becomes of them and how often do they not turn up. Eventually the Stewardess comes around with peanuts and then drinks. This won't be a long flight, but the snacks always help a nervous stomach. Anyway, I'm bored out of my mind... lost my train of thought as I take a sip of my 7-up and cautiously look out the window. I feel like taking a cat nap before we get to Mexico City. I'll be visiting Grandma as soon as I get there and the taxi ride will be a bit of a drive up to the Tabasco ranch. So I try to find a way to sleep, gazing out the window with my head to one side.
Regressing in thought to my childhood, I am taken back to when I was 4 years old, I remember an accident. A vague vision of me, chasing a car, when I lived in Mexico with my Mother and Grandmother at the Ranch in Tabasco. I don't remember her much - my Mother, but that was the last time I saw her. She had left the house one day with her husband, who was my step-father in his beat up old 75' Chevy. She just couldn't be at home, she was always gone. Maybe she didn't like me much. I don't know. That is all I can recall. Of course Eloy recants the whole story to me effortlessly. Raving about how I ran for dear life, missing my step, tripping over a rock and falling over a small cliff, landing into a ditch and a huge bed of cactus catching my fall. He said, I was caught like a fly in a web of cactus. Crying out for Grandma, while he ran to the house for help. Afterword, Grandmother sent for The Old Curandera who injected me with a potent cure, practically raising me from the dead. Eloy says, "It was my most Heroic effort to date!" very proud of himself. It isn't the most memorable in my eyes. I fall asleep to the soft hum of the airplane's engine.
"... And in about 15 minutes we will be landing at Benito Juárez International Airport. Thank you, it was a pleasure to be your pilot and we hope that you have enjoyed your journey with United Airlines. " The pilot's voice over the intercom draws me away from my brief nap. I check for the hours gone past and suddenly. "Are you Home?" I hear in a soft whisper. Instantly rising up in my seat and looking to the other passengers there is no one seated next to me and everyone is quiet and preparing for the landing. Where is that voice coming from? I think in my mind. It sounds exactly like the voice I heard the other night when I was at home, getting ready for bed. Again, the voice repeats, "Are you home?" only this time louder. I rise up from my seat, only half way to look around. It doesn't seem like anyone hears what I am hearing. The pilot asks us to stay in our seats and keep our seat belts on as we are coming in for the landing. The voice has stopped. I get back in my seat and put on my seat belt. I'm relieved to be getting out of here, but what was that? A woman's voice? When we land I gather up my carry on luggage and head for the exit of the place along with everyone else.
Outside the airport terminal I think it is better to catch a cab might be better to rent a car. The arrangements have been made at the hotel according to the directions given. Sure could use a decent meal and just then I run into Claudine and Guillermo who just came out of baggage claim. "Luisa, Where are you going so quickly? We tried to flag you down!" Guillermo says, as I turn around to notice them. Hey, well I hadn't noticed you to. I'm heading down to Tabasco to see my Grandmother. I should really see her before I leave. Seeing that this is a short trip and all. I respond brushing my hair to one side. "We wanted to invite you back to the hotel with us to have drinks! Why don't you come. Can't you go and visit tomorrow. The Conference isn't until Monday Morning." Guillermo says to me with a big smile. I totally don't have a handle on things and all I can do is open my mouth, the words of turning down the offer just won't make it past my lips, plus he is my boss. "Come with us! It's just a night cap. None of the other partners are going, so it won't be so business like." He says, and I smile this time saying, "Yeah, alright... sounds good!" From this point on I think all three of us are happy to be away from the office. Guillermo calls for a shuttle and we are off to the hotel.
Arriving at 'The Vincent' is no small task, the ride is bumpy a few miles away from the airport. Mexico City is a beautiful city with lots of Architecture and nightlife to keep a person busy, but that isn't what we are here for and I doubt I'll get a taste of it this time. Guillermo, Claudine and I have never had drinks together in a casual setting. It's been strictly formal dinners and nothing else. Usually keeping to myself or with Gloria to hang out with. The concierge of the hotel greets us at the front desk situating us in our rooms, they send the bell boy to help with our things. We are on the 3rd floor, when we drop off our luggage, we meet at the bar downstairs.
"So here I am at an amazing hotel with two gorgeous ladies for company, on such a night like this. What could be better? hmmm..." Guillermo says to Claudine and I with the hugest smile. Claudine is beautiful if she would only loosen up a little bit when she's around Guillermo. She's so uptight as it is, if she only realized how much he adores her. I bet when she was in college she wore a pocket protector and had buck teeth. She's got the sort of smile that is just too perfect... must have had work done... and she always wears her hair in that bun! My God! I wonder if she has a boyfriend yet! Everyone at the office pokes fun of her outlandish style of dress. It's amazing what she gets away with wearing, I would never dream of some of the outfits she wears. Yet she manages to keep the geeky style in check. Never irons her clothes and she wears glasses. The voice... Oh My! Her voice is sexy deep and dreamy, like Lauren Bacall. None of it goes together. Nonetheless if she were dressed up a bit more conventional, she would be absolutely, drop dead gorgeous! My thoughts make me laugh in between the chatter as I am listening with a smile. I wonder what Claudine would size me up to be! Oh well! We spend the night talking about work and office politics, nothing personal. They are both nice people. I am glad I came out for the night cap.
( Copyright © 2013 April 'Espinola' Delgado. All rights reserved.)
"Good Morning!" Gloria greets me as she rushes in with her brief case in one hand and 3 books in the other. "I know, I know I'm just running a bit late this morning. Any calls yet?" I look up and stare at her, surprised that she is carrying so much in hand. I don't answer, she can see that I am clearly having a hard time getting the words out of my mouth. She looks up from what she is doing to the stack of papers on her desk and says, "Excuse me, but I like someone else." and smiles, clips her left earring off setting it on her desk. I walk over to her desk with a smirk, still not answering "Are you ready?" she asks. Gloria do you really think you should be carrying so much stuff with you? I say as I walk over to my side of the cubicle. I mean with the pregnancy that can't be too good for you! Wondering at the same time why she hasn't made it to the bad mood department this early A.M. neglecting to drop off her sense of humor at the door, keeping the punch line to herself. I wasn't getting the remark, or at least I didn't want to. I hadn't expecting the pregnancy, because she always talked about starting a family, but said it would a few years off. It might have all been a surprise to her. I put up with her nutty appetite, sarcastic persona. No big deal, right... considering she is the closest confidant here in the office. It's going to be a boy.
An audible tone pops off through the speaker phone. Yep, it's him! I say to myself. I think Gloria is already lost in her work and can't hear me talk under my breath. "You might want to offer him a cup of coffee!" Gloria teases as I head toward the break room.
I pass by a tidal wave of typewriters, phones, a Para-Legal, several secretaries and one bicycle courier signing in at the front desk with the receptionist. It's just another average day hearing them all work in sync. Walking down these walls is high stress. I enter the lounge room and head straight for the coffee maker, when I am greeted by a co-worker named James. "Good Morning, Luisa!" he says with a fake smile. Good Morning, James! How was your weekend, I ask. He replies with the usual off guard remark. "Oh! not bad. Took a short trip to Vegas... ALONE!" he says sarcastically with eyebrows raised. "How did your weekend turn up?" He says, expecting to know the outcome of my response. A slow pause and I drift away from the conversation, walking with two cups of coffee. One for me and one for my boss. Morning meetings are the pits, but he expects me to be on time. James will have to wait for the answer. You see in the office they call me No life, Luisa. It's a bit of a dig, because they know I'm always swamped with work and the talk around the water cooler is that I've never had a boyfriend. Which isn't completely true! People can be cruel when it comes to office politics, they get very caddy.
Guillermo's office door is slightly ajar. I pink through and swing it open with my foot and say, Good Morning, Mr. Guillermo! How was your Weekend? "Luisa, excellent! Thank you for the coffee, sweetheart. I hope your weekend was constructive." Not letting me elaborate or give him a positive or a negative response he continues on topic. "Let's get to the business at hand. as you know this firm has been on a tight schedule. I need to remind you Mrs. Diaz will be going on maternity leave for the next Month and a half, as of tomorrow. Of course you will be the acting lead interpreter for the office, all foreign accounts and all corresponding court cases. All of which come into effect for our jurisdiction on Wednesday. We have the International World Conference to be held in Mexico City next week." While all this information is being relayed I am taking notes and he seems to be rather busy tugging at his pink tie and staring out the window, which overlooks the city. He continues on "We would like you to join us." looking toward me with a firm glare. I reply to his gesture with a smile and say, I accept the invitation. I have been anticipating The World Conference. I am delighted to join. It is a great honor, to be attending. "Good! If you have any questions feel free to let Claudine know before tomorrow's work day ends." Claudine is his secretary. Now he is turning his large Red 3 ringed binder, searching through his notes. He archives each, every one of them. Guillermo is intelligent, in a hard noised and brash way, not in the geeky sense at all. A lovely speaker and he seems to have a difficult time lowering the Machismo attitude. When you see it flourish it's astonishing to watch. Type A personality all the way and spends a great deal micromanaging every minor detail in his lectures, not to mention the office. This temperament is exactly what makes him the lead partner, separating him from the rest.
In recent years the only way I ever feel safe visiting Mexico is with the firm. We travel with our own security, aware that there are still parts of Mexico which are infested with the Guerra's in the local towns and rural areas. You will find the more historic parts of the country the most dangerous, which is why I hardly ever go. Always news of a journalist being kidnapped on the news. Once we traveled with a reporter, who was captured by the Chiapas and he was held for ransom. I think the firm did whatever they could to return him safely. In the end, sadly they killed him. There are aspects to this profession that are not safe. What can I do. I have to carry the attitude of being delighted to be going on this convention. It is part of the job, but I don't really want to go.
1968 a Volkswagen bug, first and last car I took on the road. I do not drive anymore. Prefer to bus it to work and around town. Travel time in between destinations gives me time to think about what has been going on at home and at work. Sometimes I forget the world vastly moving about. Alone is not alone, not completely. This best part of leaving in the morning for work is the welcome home I receive from my wonderful cat companion, Mojo! This walk is always stimulating... I'm almost home. We have walls that border this city, gentrified by the nearby local community team which is made up of neighborhood children who come out every six months to beautify these border limit walls, adding a colorful touch. Don't get me wrong it's not so tranquil here. We might have rid these streets of the old crooked street gang, Frog town who roamed years ago, but their legacy lives on through the Ska Rats. I'm home.
I have distant relatives close by nephews, cousin and aunts. The majority of my family live outside of this country. My Grandmother lives in Mexico and for the most part she loves it, with the exception of me not living closer to her. She is a constant reminder that I should be married by now. She wonders how I can live life alone. I try not to think about it all that much. Every night I come home to the same companion, who is the greatest of company and who knows, someday there may be someone special in my life.
It doesn't look like I'll be getting any work done tonight. Just a cozy night on my own by the television with this lovely Carne Asada dinner I made for myself. I love tea! Absolutely...
9:30 p.m. and I get myself into bed after a nice shower, tucking in right under the covers with Mojo at the foot of my bed. After awhile of tossing and turning, I can't sleep, intermittently peaking at the clock, worried that I won't be getting any sleep before morning. My mind occupied with the office trip to Mexico. When I'd say about half past 10 the indescribable happens, you wouldn't believe it, because I still do not. A woman's voice echoes through the apartment walls. She is speaking in English separated by pauses and from what I can tell it seems like more of a chanting rant, because of the continuous flow of her words. I instinctively reach for the Baseball Bat at the side of my headboard, sitting upright on my bed with sheets down I glance at Mojo for a second. Most of the hairs on her back are standing at attention. I look for shadows in the halls, footsteps, anything to let me know someone had broken into the apartment, but nothing. There is a quietness for a moment. The voice stopped. Half-hour passes, If someone wanted to come in and get me, they would have already done so. I think to myself and I turn the out the light, lie in bed, gaze up at the ceiling, puzzled and fall asleep.
"Here is your itinerary. It's the red-eye. Have a safe flight!" Guillermo's secretary Claudine says, while handing over the flight ticket and paperwork.
This is no ordinary case, it is an international affair. Today is Friday and tonight we leave for Mexico on what will be the biggest assignment yet. It is total chaos at the office and my beeper is constantly ringing. It's Eloy paging me frantically, when I get the chance I pick up my phone to call him. What's up! I say as he answers the phone. I'm a tad busy with work. I just wanted to return your page, what is the emergency? "Luisa, yo preferiría si me dices que va pa México, no en el último minuto" he says to me in Spanish over the phone. You mean to have notified you before hand? I answer him in English. There is a silence and it seems like he laughs under his breath. Anyway, I'll let you know the minute I return from the trip. I say with a smile and assure him the trip will be a positive success, nothing will go wrong. Goodbye! I let go of the conversation before I hang up the phone.
Another night of packing up and getting ready for air travel. I'm ready as I will ever be, going to miss home and of course Mojo. Oh and I will miss Eloy, poor guy I give him a hard time and when I think how hard he tries to take care of me. I am grateful to have such a loyal friend. Feeling guilty about the phone conversation from earlier and cutting him off. I leave him a note here in my apartment. He will be stopping by to feed Mojo periodically. I hope he isn't too mad at me. Well, my shuttle will be here soon, no sense going over it. I hate sorry letters...
I have to do a lot of traveling for my career and all expenses paid for traveling on an airplane and hotel accommodations is not all bad for what seems to be one of the most unnatural things to do in life, flying on an airplane. When I arrive at the airport my thoughts run rapid and of course I always think to myself, this could be the end. No matter what!
Claudine put me in coach and I have a window seat. I see Guillermo and the rest of the partners of the firm up in first class. Hopefully I'll get a seat near Claudine, she's always cool to chit-chat. I wish Gloria could be traveling with us, she must be loving her leave of absence. I place my bag in the over head compartment and just before I take my seat I spot Claudine who is over in first class with Guillermo. Lucky girl! Guess it's just me this time.
I like to keep watch over the wings, sorry habit, watching out for things that might not happen, the fluttering movements during the flight. It's the negative part of me. Who likes turbulence anyway. The way I see it, the real perk to this hour of travel is the empty seats which allow for more leg room to take a load off. I take a magazine in front of me and start reading it. I read of all the wonderful places to travel to Portugal, Italy and Spain. Spain, now wouldn't that be lovely. I've never been to Spain. When I was a little girl I would dream about getting married and how going there would make a most beautiful honeymoon. Ah, dreams what becomes of them and how often do they not turn up. Eventually the Stewardess comes around with peanuts and then drinks. This won't be a long flight, but the snacks always help a nervous stomach. Anyway, I'm bored out of my mind... lost my train of thought as I take a sip of my 7-up and cautiously look out the window. I feel like taking a cat nap before we get to Mexico City. I'll be visiting Grandma as soon as I get there and the taxi ride will be a bit of a drive up to the Tabasco ranch. So I try to find a way to sleep, gazing out the window with my head to one side.
Regressing in thought to my childhood, I am taken back to when I was 4 years old, I remember an accident. A vague vision of me, chasing a car, when I lived in Mexico with my Mother and Grandmother at the Ranch in Tabasco. I don't remember her much - my Mother, but that was the last time I saw her. She had left the house one day with her husband, who was my step-father in his beat up old 75' Chevy. She just couldn't be at home, she was always gone. Maybe she didn't like me much. I don't know. That is all I can recall. Of course Eloy recants the whole story to me effortlessly. Raving about how I ran for dear life, missing my step, tripping over a rock and falling over a small cliff, landing into a ditch and a huge bed of cactus catching my fall. He said, I was caught like a fly in a web of cactus. Crying out for Grandma, while he ran to the house for help. Afterword, Grandmother sent for The Old Curandera who injected me with a potent cure, practically raising me from the dead. Eloy says, "It was my most Heroic effort to date!" very proud of himself. It isn't the most memorable in my eyes. I fall asleep to the soft hum of the airplane's engine.
"... And in about 15 minutes we will be landing at Benito Juárez International Airport. Thank you, it was a pleasure to be your pilot and we hope that you have enjoyed your journey with United Airlines. " The pilot's voice over the intercom draws me away from my brief nap. I check for the hours gone past and suddenly. "Are you Home?" I hear in a soft whisper. Instantly rising up in my seat and looking to the other passengers there is no one seated next to me and everyone is quiet and preparing for the landing. Where is that voice coming from? I think in my mind. It sounds exactly like the voice I heard the other night when I was at home, getting ready for bed. Again, the voice repeats, "Are you home?" only this time louder. I rise up from my seat, only half way to look around. It doesn't seem like anyone hears what I am hearing. The pilot asks us to stay in our seats and keep our seat belts on as we are coming in for the landing. The voice has stopped. I get back in my seat and put on my seat belt. I'm relieved to be getting out of here, but what was that? A woman's voice? When we land I gather up my carry on luggage and head for the exit of the place along with everyone else.
Outside the airport terminal I think it is better to catch a cab might be better to rent a car. The arrangements have been made at the hotel according to the directions given. Sure could use a decent meal and just then I run into Claudine and Guillermo who just came out of baggage claim. "Luisa, Where are you going so quickly? We tried to flag you down!" Guillermo says, as I turn around to notice them. Hey, well I hadn't noticed you to. I'm heading down to Tabasco to see my Grandmother. I should really see her before I leave. Seeing that this is a short trip and all. I respond brushing my hair to one side. "We wanted to invite you back to the hotel with us to have drinks! Why don't you come. Can't you go and visit tomorrow. The Conference isn't until Monday Morning." Guillermo says to me with a big smile. I totally don't have a handle on things and all I can do is open my mouth, the words of turning down the offer just won't make it past my lips, plus he is my boss. "Come with us! It's just a night cap. None of the other partners are going, so it won't be so business like." He says, and I smile this time saying, "Yeah, alright... sounds good!" From this point on I think all three of us are happy to be away from the office. Guillermo calls for a shuttle and we are off to the hotel.
Arriving at 'The Vincent' is no small task, the ride is bumpy a few miles away from the airport. Mexico City is a beautiful city with lots of Architecture and nightlife to keep a person busy, but that isn't what we are here for and I doubt I'll get a taste of it this time. Guillermo, Claudine and I have never had drinks together in a casual setting. It's been strictly formal dinners and nothing else. Usually keeping to myself or with Gloria to hang out with. The concierge of the hotel greets us at the front desk situating us in our rooms, they send the bell boy to help with our things. We are on the 3rd floor, when we drop off our luggage, we meet at the bar downstairs.
"So here I am at an amazing hotel with two gorgeous ladies for company, on such a night like this. What could be better? hmmm..." Guillermo says to Claudine and I with the hugest smile. Claudine is beautiful if she would only loosen up a little bit when she's around Guillermo. She's so uptight as it is, if she only realized how much he adores her. I bet when she was in college she wore a pocket protector and had buck teeth. She's got the sort of smile that is just too perfect... must have had work done... and she always wears her hair in that bun! My God! I wonder if she has a boyfriend yet! Everyone at the office pokes fun of her outlandish style of dress. It's amazing what she gets away with wearing, I would never dream of some of the outfits she wears. Yet she manages to keep the geeky style in check. Never irons her clothes and she wears glasses. The voice... Oh My! Her voice is sexy deep and dreamy, like Lauren Bacall. None of it goes together. Nonetheless if she were dressed up a bit more conventional, she would be absolutely, drop dead gorgeous! My thoughts make me laugh in between the chatter as I am listening with a smile. I wonder what Claudine would size me up to be! Oh well! We spend the night talking about work and office politics, nothing personal. They are both nice people. I am glad I came out for the night cap.
( Copyright © 2013 April 'Espinola' Delgado. All rights reserved.)
Hoot and Holler (Chapter One)
How insignificant it is this harsh reality, blending amplifies the noises.
9:00 p.m. where does it all come from? Upstairs in my apartment, number Twenty-Nine it was my birthday and this month I turned Twenty-Nine. Yes, it is quite the life existing in this no ordinary town. A hidden flat-wedged neighborhood made up from a large Hispanic Demographic. I live under the radar not minding most of my days spent hard working in a professional atmosphere as a translator for powerful L.A. Attorneys, who electrify a great portion of most of the high rise building in all of Downtown, Los Angeles. I keep a private life and often find myself sitting here at my desk typing away on my keyboard in front of this computer screen. A quiet life, unless I'm shutting out all the exterior pollution. All the freeway traffic nearby rushing it's anthem through my window.
Slam!
I shut it all out, all the noise here in Frog town, makes me want to scream and shout out. It's probably those Ska Rats, that's who causes all the racket. In the eighties there use be another street gang. I think the name was 'The Frog town Gang'. It is said, the gang named themselves after this dingy town. Who cares, no matter what you have to put up with, the charm of Frog town will always get you in the end. It's dubbed Frog town for a reason, but the name will never show up on any county map. Blame it on the reservoir sewer frogs who inhabit the night with their croaking.
Swoosh! The curtains close.
Learning the history of this place is just how I came to know it. Guess that's why there's a heavy presence of police patrolling the area. What you will not forget as you pass by is our every underlining wall that runs along the freeway, beautifully gentrified by a community action team. In the meantime, because that is how he operates Aztec Boy Wonder calls again through my instant messenger. I wonder what is an Aztec Boy Wonder?
AztecBoyWonder: Come on!
Interpret_her: What is it?
AztecBoyWonder: Let's get out! I'm Bored.
Interpret_her: Sorry, not tonight. I have to much work to do.
AztecBoyWonder: Great! I'll be right over.
Loud whistles snap me to focus from the work at hand. My boiling teapot outburst it's demands of attention, as I get up to shut off the flame, the front door bell rings. Who is it? I say, through the door.
"Yeah, Chica we have a great chemistry. Yeah, not interested, but would you please open the door." Eloy says,
His name is Eloy, and on any other night I would be glad to hear from him. I open the door, and he tears through the apartment like a hyped up storm, heading right to the living room, plopping himself down on my comfy living room sofa. This is the normal routine for a night on the town. I refuse to admit to him that I would rather stay held up here in my buttoned down lifestyle.
Monday night and we walk not drive. No grungy band in the city to put on a cheap 2 buck chuck at one of our favorite local hang-outs. What was the alternative stay home, not having a life. Yet again, he has weaseled his way into getting me out and about. We are walking down Ripple Street and pass a lousy strip joint not far from my home. I know he's curious about all the action. He turns his head to me and smiles. "Do you wanna check it out?" pointing to the joint. I pass I say, and give him a rain check. We make a pit stop at the corner of Everest. I grin by the vision before my very eyes. I spot an Hispanic Man pushing his Ice-Cream cart announcing his business with his bicycle horn. That is a tacky thing to do, isn't it? Making my remark after the man makes it across the street. I'm not a complete idiot. I turn to Eloy who has hardly even noticed the ice cream man, expecting a response. "What's tacky is that you would judge a person who is clearly trying to make a living." He says. I respond to the attitude with Wait a minute! Eloy interrupts with "Ashamed of your heritage much?" saying with a shaking of his head. Further up the street there are two Ska Rats who I notice who seem to be approaching us. "You see this is what I don't get. Are you a Hispanic? He says. Preoccupied with what the ska rats are doing I respond with a shout out of, what!? He keeps up with his rant. "Could be the way you speak. Sorry, but no one speaks like a Spaniard. You know the English speaking kind. I tell you what screw the Spanglish. Are you a Mexican?" For a moment there I though he was someone else. He usually never speaks to me with this tone and just when I think he's done, he says. "Yes or No are you a Mexican?" He leans his head to one side. Of course, is my response to him. Next thing we know I'm being tapped on the shoulder by one of the Ska Rats saying, "Ahh, a nasty lovers quarrel!" interrupting our conversation. "Don't they look cute, Diego?" Diego responds with a "¡Sí!" to the first, smirking it off.
Instantly Eloy brushes me off to the side with his shoulder, puffs up his chest at both Ska Rats and says, "Do you think this is cute, Diego?" waving his hand at them to come a little closer. The lead rat turns his creepy mask to the other and turns back to Eloy. "Mind your own beeswax, and take your cheesy looking friend with you to!" Eloy says, giving the Ska Rat a rough tug to his green collared flannelled shirt. Both Skater Rats thrash against Eloy in return knocking him to the ground. Immediately Eloy cries out to me for help. "Let's Go Diego, de bolada!" both jumping on their skateboards leaving the scene, whooping it up. The smell of the stench leaves behind a trail. Their attitude is exactly what I was trying to explain, beginning with the Ice Cream man, never expecting those smelly rats to turn up and prove my point. Alright, I won't screw the Hispanic. Let's get up! I say to Eloy as I reach for his arm "Ouch!" Eloy whines in discomfort.
Sorry are you alright?
"No, I think he broke my foot!" At this point in the conversation... I don't think he is hurt too bad, if I know Eloy at all.
Do you feel pain when you move your foot?
"Yes!" he responds
How about your toes can you count them?
"No. He says abruptly with a rolling of the eyes and running his fingers through his hair."
Good then I'll sit right over here, till you think you're okay to move it about.
"I'm telling you. I can't! Move what about? My foot?"
I feel like rolling my eyes and I say, foot isn't broken. It's only a sprain. Please don't make me call an ambulance. Promise, you can use me as a crutch the rest of the way home.
( Copyright © 2013 April 'Espinola' Delgado. All rights reserved.)
9:00 p.m. where does it all come from? Upstairs in my apartment, number Twenty-Nine it was my birthday and this month I turned Twenty-Nine. Yes, it is quite the life existing in this no ordinary town. A hidden flat-wedged neighborhood made up from a large Hispanic Demographic. I live under the radar not minding most of my days spent hard working in a professional atmosphere as a translator for powerful L.A. Attorneys, who electrify a great portion of most of the high rise building in all of Downtown, Los Angeles. I keep a private life and often find myself sitting here at my desk typing away on my keyboard in front of this computer screen. A quiet life, unless I'm shutting out all the exterior pollution. All the freeway traffic nearby rushing it's anthem through my window.
Slam!
I shut it all out, all the noise here in Frog town, makes me want to scream and shout out. It's probably those Ska Rats, that's who causes all the racket. In the eighties there use be another street gang. I think the name was 'The Frog town Gang'. It is said, the gang named themselves after this dingy town. Who cares, no matter what you have to put up with, the charm of Frog town will always get you in the end. It's dubbed Frog town for a reason, but the name will never show up on any county map. Blame it on the reservoir sewer frogs who inhabit the night with their croaking.
Swoosh! The curtains close.
Learning the history of this place is just how I came to know it. Guess that's why there's a heavy presence of police patrolling the area. What you will not forget as you pass by is our every underlining wall that runs along the freeway, beautifully gentrified by a community action team. In the meantime, because that is how he operates Aztec Boy Wonder calls again through my instant messenger. I wonder what is an Aztec Boy Wonder?
AztecBoyWonder: Come on!
Interpret_her: What is it?
AztecBoyWonder: Let's get out! I'm Bored.
Interpret_her: Sorry, not tonight. I have to much work to do.
AztecBoyWonder: Great! I'll be right over.
Loud whistles snap me to focus from the work at hand. My boiling teapot outburst it's demands of attention, as I get up to shut off the flame, the front door bell rings. Who is it? I say, through the door.
"Yeah, Chica we have a great chemistry. Yeah, not interested, but would you please open the door." Eloy says,
His name is Eloy, and on any other night I would be glad to hear from him. I open the door, and he tears through the apartment like a hyped up storm, heading right to the living room, plopping himself down on my comfy living room sofa. This is the normal routine for a night on the town. I refuse to admit to him that I would rather stay held up here in my buttoned down lifestyle.
Monday night and we walk not drive. No grungy band in the city to put on a cheap 2 buck chuck at one of our favorite local hang-outs. What was the alternative stay home, not having a life. Yet again, he has weaseled his way into getting me out and about. We are walking down Ripple Street and pass a lousy strip joint not far from my home. I know he's curious about all the action. He turns his head to me and smiles. "Do you wanna check it out?" pointing to the joint. I pass I say, and give him a rain check. We make a pit stop at the corner of Everest. I grin by the vision before my very eyes. I spot an Hispanic Man pushing his Ice-Cream cart announcing his business with his bicycle horn. That is a tacky thing to do, isn't it? Making my remark after the man makes it across the street. I'm not a complete idiot. I turn to Eloy who has hardly even noticed the ice cream man, expecting a response. "What's tacky is that you would judge a person who is clearly trying to make a living." He says. I respond to the attitude with Wait a minute! Eloy interrupts with "Ashamed of your heritage much?" saying with a shaking of his head. Further up the street there are two Ska Rats who I notice who seem to be approaching us. "You see this is what I don't get. Are you a Hispanic? He says. Preoccupied with what the ska rats are doing I respond with a shout out of, what!? He keeps up with his rant. "Could be the way you speak. Sorry, but no one speaks like a Spaniard. You know the English speaking kind. I tell you what screw the Spanglish. Are you a Mexican?" For a moment there I though he was someone else. He usually never speaks to me with this tone and just when I think he's done, he says. "Yes or No are you a Mexican?" He leans his head to one side. Of course, is my response to him. Next thing we know I'm being tapped on the shoulder by one of the Ska Rats saying, "Ahh, a nasty lovers quarrel!" interrupting our conversation. "Don't they look cute, Diego?" Diego responds with a "¡Sí!" to the first, smirking it off.
Instantly Eloy brushes me off to the side with his shoulder, puffs up his chest at both Ska Rats and says, "Do you think this is cute, Diego?" waving his hand at them to come a little closer. The lead rat turns his creepy mask to the other and turns back to Eloy. "Mind your own beeswax, and take your cheesy looking friend with you to!" Eloy says, giving the Ska Rat a rough tug to his green collared flannelled shirt. Both Skater Rats thrash against Eloy in return knocking him to the ground. Immediately Eloy cries out to me for help. "Let's Go Diego, de bolada!" both jumping on their skateboards leaving the scene, whooping it up. The smell of the stench leaves behind a trail. Their attitude is exactly what I was trying to explain, beginning with the Ice Cream man, never expecting those smelly rats to turn up and prove my point. Alright, I won't screw the Hispanic. Let's get up! I say to Eloy as I reach for his arm "Ouch!" Eloy whines in discomfort.
Sorry are you alright?
"No, I think he broke my foot!" At this point in the conversation... I don't think he is hurt too bad, if I know Eloy at all.
Do you feel pain when you move your foot?
"Yes!" he responds
How about your toes can you count them?
"No. He says abruptly with a rolling of the eyes and running his fingers through his hair."
Good then I'll sit right over here, till you think you're okay to move it about.
"I'm telling you. I can't! Move what about? My foot?"
I feel like rolling my eyes and I say, foot isn't broken. It's only a sprain. Please don't make me call an ambulance. Promise, you can use me as a crutch the rest of the way home.
( Copyright © 2013 April 'Espinola' Delgado. All rights reserved.)
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)