Persona Non Grata

Scene 5 - The Don

My mind is spiraling with thoughts as I left the hotel and went back to the carriage parked in front of the tavern beside it. As I walked, I can't help but ponder upon Isagani's words and the way he conducted himself in our encounter. He was cordial, collected and surprisingly calm when he received me, which was something I never expected him to do, given the state of things between us never improved through the years. But...I can't help but ask myself: did he really mean those words when he said that he has already...moved on?

I tried to shake off those thoughts as the coachman opened the carriage door for me as I approached, bowing courteously as I walked. He then raised his eyes and focused them on mine, and then he said to me, "We are ready to depart, señora. Just say the word."

I looked back at him, curled my lips into a smile and nodded. It was enough an answer for him that he did not bother to say anything further as I boarded the carriage.

Or at least before he closed the door after me.

"Is everything all right, señora?" he asked, probably taking note of my silence.

"All is fine, Pepito. I may be just fatigued. Let's head back to San Diego." I replied.

"If you so wish, señora. Although we have to stop by the nearest neighboring town to freshen up the horses before we press on with our journey. Our steeds look tired and we cannot strain them too much - and I believe the same can be said for you. The journey is long. Please, señora. You need to rest, too."

"That is very kind of you, Pepito. I appreciate the thought." I told him.

"Always happy to be of service, señora." he answered as he closed the door.

A few moments later, I heard the sound of a whip crack followed by galloping as the carriage moved away from the vicinity. A stream of thoughts began to flow through my mind as I sat idle inside the car, my eyes wandering about the sidewalks of Santa Clara as we pass. From time to time, my eyes would spy on a number of children and groups of beggars parading the streets asking for alms. How I pity those poor souls! Such misery to see society shun the weak and powerless, when it is within its power to help them. I felt bad for those poor people.

"So, how did it go with Isagani?" asked a voice from the other seat of the carriage.

"I-it went well, Don Timoteo." I answered. "He sends his regards, and would like to hear from you soon."

"I see." he replied. "Thank you, Paulita."

"I am always happy to be of service." I replied as I smiled.

"I assume that he did not take it very well when he learned that I sent you to deliver the proposal." the don asked.

"He was mildly upset about it, papa. But I believe he understands our current situation." I answered.

"Did he agree to meet?" the don inquired intently.

"Yes." I answered.

"And does he seem convinced of your motivations?" he asked anew, this time his eyes looking sharply unto mine.

"He does." I answered, unwavering.

"Very well." he replied, crossing his arms. "I am glad he has considered my offer. You have done well, hija. I know this has not been easy for you to go through this task, but I have nobody else to turn to. After what happened to Juanito..."

"I understand your predicament, Don Timoteo." I answered. "As your daughter-in-law, I believe it is only right that I assist you in this undertaking."

"I am touched, running these sorts of errands for an old and dying man." the don commended with a smile. "I am fortunate to have a daughter-in-law such as you - a woman with a head suited for business, with mind so bright and a heart so kind. You're the daughter I never had. I'm sure your parents would have been proud."