The Tax Collector (GirlxIntersex) Book 1

Chapter 21

Chapter 21
Valentino POV

I want to take on the air. I want to punch it. Kick it, toss it down, and stomp on it. I gripped the phone out of frustration. My dissatisfaction sprang primarily from my inability to argue with my mother. Additionally, I'm afraid that she could hit me across the phone.

I assumed the Lucia dispute was resolved last night. I had to transfer the conversation outdoors. I decided to let Lucia enjoy some fresh air. She was at least five strides ahead of me. While I remained back and spoke to my mother as quietly as possible.
I've spent the last 20 minutes on the phone defending a girl I don't know anything about and who seemed unwilling to allow me in for anything other than to have sex with her. I didn't want to know her only for sex. I'd like to know what she eats. What movie genre she prefers. What is her dream job?

I know that sounds cringe-worthy, but I'd like to know her.

"All I advise is let the family get to know her so that if you are abused by a drug cartel, she is the one to point fingers at."

My mother is unaware that I was dabbling in trash. In deep, dark, lasting crap that would almost certainly have her returning to America to give me a nice spanking.

It was one of the reasons I sent my folks away. I send them away from the danger that surrounds my existence. I couldn't have to, especially when this was what I truly wanted to accomplish. Until this day, my parents believe I have a mundane day job in an office, and each year I manage to receive greater income and promotions.

"We're from Mexico, too, mom; what if people assumed we were working for the cartels? What if my supervisor suddenly believes I was providing information to the Carter? That would be bad for us. So quit saying terrible things about her."

She sneered, saying, "I still want her to meet the family."

I rolled my eyes. To what extent has Garcia informed her, I wonder? She best not slip up and tell my parents about my employment, or I'll have to kill her. I despise people who leak information like a plastic bag with holes.

"You know, the little family get-together is coming up this week; used this chance to introduce her to the important family members." She suggested.

I let out a frustrated grunt. This might frighten Lucia. She was not prepared to interact with anyone but me. I'm basically taking a risk by bringing Garcia around her. I prayed all day yesterday that she would not slip up around her.

"There will be another one in summer, maybe three months from now, and I can bring her there." By then, she will have improved and completed the majority of her papers.

"At the latest, next Sunday. If not, I want her out."

"Wait...a minute, mama..."

"Don't use your American accent with me." She scolded. She has a propensity for interrupting everyone, including her own spouse. When she takes the floor, she takes everything in.

"Mama, she cannot be around too many people right now."

"Rodriguez! Your daughter, ahhh, she isn't listening to me!"

"Yes, Mama. I am. I'm just...showing you my point." I distinctly recall that she finds my point insignificant.

"I want to visit her on Sunday."

"Are you coming home?"

"No, you moron. Garcia will tell me if she's present or not."

I groaned; I suppose Garcia is her little informant rat. That little puta.

"Okay, I'll let her expose her face for an hour or two."

"No, she stayed from start to end."

Despite being separated by seas and oceans, I find it difficult to accept that my mother still runs things.

"Fine,"

I definitely shouldn't have switched the phone off in her ears, but I hate it when she doesn't listen and insists on doing things her way. I moved briskly up to Lucia. Her head was riveted to the ground. I wish she had confidence in herself.