Carmela and I turned into a narrow, paved street. And the magic of the plaza and the impressive architecture were gone. In their place stood the skeletons of what must have been a once-prosperous neighborhood. Carmela squeezed my hand and pulled me with determination into a weary building and up a narrow staircase.

“Listen, Carmela,” I started as she unlocked a door in the hallway. But she wasn’t listening. She pushed the door in and we entered a room, which was both tiny and cluttered. I hesitantly stood by a vanity table overflowing with bottles of castor and peppermint oil, powders, and earrings. Feathers and necklaces hung from an oval mirror and there were gowns scattered on the bed and on the floor.

“Forgive my mess,” Carmela said, grabbing a handful of dresses from the bed and dumping them inside the armoire.

While she picked up, I made my way between shoes and scarves toward the window and moved the curtain to one side. Across the alley was a building with peeling paint and cracked windows that blocked the view. The alleyway was empty except for a scrawny cat treading along the street with hypnotic movements. There was music nearby, but I couldn’t tell if it came from this building or a two-story house at the end of the block.

When I was done inspecting the neighborhood, I turned around. Carmela was already waiting for me on the bed.

Naked.

She patted the side of the bed. “Come here, papi.”

As she moved her arm, one of her bare breasts spread on the sheet like a pile of raw dough. I looked away and paced the room.

“Carmela, cariño. I didn’t come here for that.”

“Don’t tell me that you’re one of those men who . . .” She sat up. “I thought that might be the case, but don’t worry, I can find you someone else, but it’s going to cost you double.”

“No, no. I don’t need anyone.” I sat on the edge of the bed, trying to avoid the sight of her flaccid body. “Is there a hotel nearby where I could stay?”

I dug for my wallet in my back pocket. I removed some bills and placed them by her hand.

She stared at the money. “Are you in some kind of trouble, mister? Are you hiding from someone?”

“No, no. The truth is I recently lost my wife and I don’t think I can touch another woman. Ever.”

Her smile vanished.

“But do you mind keeping this between us?” I said. “I don’t want people to start talking about me. You know how small towns can be and my reputation is important to me.”

“You must have loved her a lot.”

I nodded, without looking at her.

“You may keep this for your troubles,” I said, setting the bills on her hand. “Now tell me, mi alma, where’s the closest hotel?”

CHAPTER 12

CHAPTER 12