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82 Tamale Ridge by: Chuck Cusimano

“But I did not know you have children.” She said.

“I don’t yet.” I said. “But together we could have many beautiful children.” The statement

embarrassed her.

We sat there talking about the possibilities of her coming with me.

“Señor, we would not have a chance at happiness without my father’s blessings. I think we

both know how he feels about that.”

“There must be a way to make him see that he can not hold you here forever.” I said.

“Señor Thacker,” she said, “My father is very grateful to you for saving me from that man in

the cave but do not think that he would not kill you if it would be best for his interests. He is a

very hard man. I would leave and he would follow if for no other reason than his pride.”

“I would treat you well, you would be happy there. I know!” I told her.

“I must go now, Señor. Please go back to your rancho. I must remain here.”

She stepped into her saddle and I grabbed her and pulled her face to mine and for the first time,

kissed her. I noticed no resistance as she participated in this passionate act of tenderness.

“Adios Señor,” she said as she rode from that place with tears in her eyes.

I stood there, my hands wet from her tears and with a big empty hole where my heart had been.

I couldn’t move for the longest time. I finally sat down, realizing that she must obey her father.

Although I wanted her, there was no way to get her to come back home with me. I mounted my

horse and was thinking of riding away for good. I should just start for Gilberto and the mares.

It was broad daylight now but I wasn’t worried. I was doing no wrong. I had not been caught

talking to Rosemarie. That was the deal, wasn’t it? I was still setting there when the wind

brought my attention to the chiming in the trees overhead. I was remembering what old Juan

Torres had said.

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