"Let go of me." "you damn fools!" "Damn you, let go of me!" "Let go!" "Stupid bitches!" "Let go of me, I said!" "You're in here because you're useless out there!" "Let go of me!" "You bitches, let go!" "Let me go!" "Fifteen days locked in there will calm her down." "Yeah, right!" "She's been here for two years... and is only getting worse." "Let me go!" "Open up!" "Dear Lord!" "Get me out of here!" "I want to get out of here!" "Dear God, you made me the way I am." "Just like scorpions..." "or rats." "Lord of all jails, have mercy on me!" "Throw down the bars, the walls." "Let me feel the air, the sun." "I have as much right as a snake, or this spider." "God have mercy!" "Grant me a miracle if you can!" "Get me out of here!" "Get me out of here!" "Get me out of here!" "Oh, miss!" "This downpour is going to be memorable." "Why do you say that, Felisa?" "Because it's out of season." "And this kind of storm is the devil's doing." "Even our sweet little cat has just scratched me." "Don't start, Felisa." "I know you very well." "If the sun rises two minutes late." "It's bad luck." "If you meet two crows head on." "It's the end of the world." "It's superstition." "It may be "supers"..." "or whatever you may call it." "But I was right last time." "Remember when your son had typhus fever?" "It was after a horrible downpour." " Hail Mary full of grace..." " Conceived without sin." "I can't argue with you and all your heaven's lawyers." "Good evening, mother." "Son, you took so long I thought you had gone to Mexico City... to get your agronomist degree." "Put that away." "And my father wonders where I get my irony from." "Gone all afternoon..." "I have a feeling someone has a girlfriend." "That's right." "She's green and she has six legs." " What?" " Here." "This little bug is responsible for ruining our com crop." "Poor little God's creature..." "You take things literally, Felisa." "You'll never change your childish ways." "A 60 year-old child." "Besides, change is no good." "Mrs. Carmen." "No one would guess you're over thirty." "Thirty..." "Very well lived 30 years." "Not like today's 30 year-old." "You're impossible, Alberto." "Making Felisa talk non sense." "Leave her alone." " And you, Felisa..." " He started it." "Don't get mad." "Let's make up." "You always get your way." "Look at you, sitting at the table before your father." "Sorry, mother." "I forgot." "Where is father?" "It's alright." "Stay still, stay still." "It will be a normal delivery." "Mr. Guadalupe." "Don't worry, be patient." "You know how much I love this animal." "I don't want her to suffer." "This love you feel for your horses is that of a man for a woman." " Will it take long?" " The average time." "Go have dinner, I'll inform you soon." "I know you're laughing at me." "But I feel the same way as when my son was born." "Jesus. as soon as it's near go get me." "If you fail me, I'll fire you." "Please don't, boss." "You lose." "It's a trick deck." "How is the mare, father?" "The veterinary says everything is fine, but I'm very nervous..." "As usual. as if it were your son." "You want me to help, father?" "I'm not bad at it." "Bad at it?" "Sometimes I think you love the land and the animals... more than you love me." "Father, I believe I can better prepare for my exams... here at the farm than in Mexico City." " Is that fine with you?" " Do as you wish." "As long as you don't get tired of us." "I promise I'll find him a girlfriend to distract his mind." "Mothers have a special way With that." "And fathers for scolding them if they don't study." "I promise that won't be necessary, father." "Jeez, that one was close!" "Holy Mary!" "What a night!" "You can row your way to the barn." "Mr. Guadalupe. please excuse me." "What is it?" "Any news?" "Bad ones." "The colt was stillborn." "Stillborn..." "Everything was going well..." "And the mare?" "The veterinary is not sure he can save her." "Holy Mary of God and all Saints..." "My china!" "My china is in pieces!" "The devil seems to be on the loose." "Holy Trinity!" "Look out there, in the window." "Lord Almighty!" "Oh, dear, it's the devil!" "As the priest says:" ""Stay away, Satan!"" "Will you be quiet, Felisa?" "Put her on the sofa, Jesus." "Holy Mother of God!" "Stop that, Felisa!" "Bring some water and clean towels, quickly." "There must have been a bus accident." "In a frenzy, this woman started to run and ended up here." " That's probably it." " Maybe." "But now we must take care of her." "Who knows..." "Yesterday we had some gypsies around here." "Maybe..." "She's hurt, but it looks like she only fainted." "Get me the ammonia, Jesus." "Quickly." "Yes, madam." "Alberto, place another cushion under her head." "What could have happened to her?" "A tragedy, no doubt." "Here you are. madam." "Th ere." "She's coming to." "Do you feel better?" "What happened to you ?" "Well. these are women's affairs." "Leave us alone. maybe she'll calm down." "You're very young." "Almost a child." "Feeling better?" "A little, madam." "Thank you." "Don't mention it." "What's your name?" "Susana. madam." " Susana what?" " Just Susana." "Dear Lord, don't you have a family name?" "Have you no parents?" "I never met them." "A woman took me in and..." "We'll send you back." "Where does she live?" " No, please, madam..." " Calm down, dear." "Easy." "Were they cruel to you?" "The woman's husband treated me well, but he died." "And then it all changed." "A dirty old man came and wanted to..." "I refused..." "Then he hit me and..." "Since I always refused he said I was a burden." "That I had to work and that he would take me to.." "Where?" "To work for a good family in Acapulco." "And it wasn't true." "On the road he tried to take advantage of me." "Dear God, what did you do?" "I jumped out of the car, I ran and somehow ended up here." "Don't let him find me, madam." "Don't let him find me." "No one will look for you here and if he did..." " No, madam." " You're like a daughter to me." "I'll protect you." "Thank you, madam." "Thank you, mother." "Felisa. call the men." "You are safe now." "Calm down, girl." "Calm down." "You may come in now." "What happened?" "Who is she?" "I'll tell you in a moment." "Now, this poor girl needs to rest." "Do you feel better?" "Felisa, go with her." "For the time being she can stay at the blacksmith's room." "And give her some broth." "Thank you, madam." "Here, here." "If it were up to me, I would Oh well..." "God's will be done." "Get some sleep." "tomorrow we'll see." "Did you find the engineer?" "With difficulty." "They're all working for the state at the moment." "But he's on his way to the stable." "Thank God." "And the poor mare?" "That's got me very worried." " What does Mr. Severiano say?" " Nothing really." "But if it goes on like this I'll have to put her down... and you know how much I love her." "Don't be hasty." "I have a feeling she'll be fine." "I've been hoping for a colt from her for so long." "But she worries me." "But, on another note, what will you do with the girl we took in?" "She seems so nice. so helpful." "She's only been here for two days and her help is noticeable." "I pity her, she's so humble, so innocent." "As you wish, but we don't know who she is or where she came from." "I feel so sorry for her." "I feel sorry for many people." "but there are places for them." "Susana!" "Yes, sir." "You seem recovered and calm." "I think it's time to think about what we should do with you." "I have no one in this world. sir." "Maybe we should take you to a trade school..." "or an institution were you..." " Why do you want me to leave?" "I haven't done anything and I just want to stay here... where life is good." "Let her stay, Guadalupe." "She's gone through a lot, she wants to work and I think she likes me." "To me you're more than the mother I never knew, madam." "See?" "Let her stay, Guadalupe." "I could use the help." "That's up to you." "She can stay if you want." "How can I thank you, sir?" "You have a powerful godmother." "Thank her." "Thank you, madam." "Go on, go do your chores." "Thank you for your help." "Mr. Guadalupe." "You're very kind." "And you're beautiful." "What's the matter with you today?" "Why are you kissing me that way?" "It's so hot!" "Man, look at this one." " What a beauty!" " I'll call the boss, you scumbag." "Leave her alone!" "How about saying good morning, Susana?" " Like decent people." " Good morning, Jesus." "I don't know what you did." "but the sun came out." "Can I help you?" "Just let me know." "I don't think so." "I'm going to get some eggs." "Unless you can help the hens." "Those are not the hens I like." "Really?" "Well, be careful with the ones that already have roosters." "You're very smart, blondie." "We always tell the truth at the ranch." "There's a lotto see around here." "I know the scenery well." "And where will you take me?" "You?" "All the way to heaven." " That easy?" " No, beautiful, that hard." "Are you afraid of me?" "Afraid?" "I don't even know you." "But I'd rather have a choice." "And you think I don't know?" "Ask the ladies." "you'll see they pick me." "And what do you tell them?" "Look, beautiful." "I'm brave and I get things done." "Let me know when you're ready." "I'll think about it." "I don't like to make mistakes." "Think quickly." "Who knows, this saint might go to heaven and..." "May I go down, Don Juan?" "I'll get you down." "Come." "Let go of me." "See what you've done?" "All mined!" "You're so beautiful when you're mad." "The wind blows and the crop blossoms." "You want me to scream?" "Don't ruin such a beautiful voice." "What if your voice get hoarse?" "There, I'll forgive you." "You're so brave." "Now I'll get scolded because of you." "Look, if you get tough, no one will scold you but me." "I'll decide who gets to scold me." "See what you've done?" "Now you know." "If you want to take a walk on the farm, let me know." "Well, pull up a chair because you'll get tired of waiting." "Hey, beautiful, can I carry your basket?" "How did it go with the hens?" "Jerks!" "Looks like you showed her." "That one is tougher than our mare." "I know a rancher who died for even less." "It was all in good fun to see what would happen." "Well. now you know." " Okay." " Let's get to work." "Yes, sir." "Good morning, Susana." "Good morning, Alberto." "You're in better health and look very pretty." " You're making fun of me." " I'm being honest." "Were you also honest with the nice city girls?" "I'm not a pro." "I say what's in my heart." "If only I could believe you." "No one has ever said anything nice to me." "Ever." "You must have lived in a world of blind people." "You're like the weeds in the field." "Nobody knows when or how they grow until they pay attention." "Then, you like the countryside?" "I'll tell your mother." "You want to tell me something?" "Alberto was telling me how mu ch he loves the farm... and was asking about the clean clothes." "Felisa takes care of that." "Ask her." "Right away, madam." "Listen, friend. ls the Las Palmas Hacienda far from here?" "I'm from there, sir." "Three miles away, at the most." "Great, so you can help me." "I will if I can." "That's right." "We're looking for a girl that ran away... from the reformatory two days ago." "We believe she's around and I need to know if you've seen her." "She's young, about 20 years old and she's..." "If you know what I mean." "There are a few women there that should be institutionalized, but there are no strangers." "Here you'll find the address and phone number of the reformatory." "Call us if you know something." " I'll inform the boss." " Thank you." "Let's go." "Maybe I should continue cleaning later, sir." "I'm in your way." "Not at all." "Go on." "Yes, sir." "It's best you take care of..." "Of mm at, sir?" "Your clothes." "I don't like the way you dress." "I was given these clothes here, sir." "Do I look that bad?" "It's just for work." "Fine, that's not what I mean." "I know it's not pretty but..." "I'm just telling you to cover up more." "There are many men here." "and men are like untamed colts." "You never know how they'll react." "That's my life, sir." "When I try to do things right." "I do something wrong." "Whatever you say." "You didn't do anything wrong." "It's not your fault, I just wanted to tell you to pay more attention." "Go on, my wife will explain it better." "Excuse me, sir." " With your permission, sir." " Come in, Jesus." "I wanted to tell you something that..." "Well, then, go ahead." "Don't tell me there are more news in town?" " It's just that..." " What?" "I'm listening, but you're not talking." "What is it?" "Nothing." "Everyone in town is worried about the mare." "Since she's Arabian. you know..." "That's how they are." "And the seeds arrive tomorrow." "That's it." " All right." " Excuse me." "Listen, I wanted to tell you something." "The guys are very pushy here and I wouldn't like it... if they took advantage of Susana." "The girl seems good and innocent and I don't want anyone... messing with her." "You know what I mean." "I'll put you in charge of that." "All right, boss." "I'll handle that." "Guadalupe, Mr. Severiano is waiting for you." "When did he arrive?" "He's been with the mare for a while." "He believes he can save her and he wants to see you." "I'll be right there." "Before I forget." "I wanted to talk to you about that girl, Susana." "She's young and I don't think she realizes she's a woman... and she dresses in a ﬂashy way." "You know it's better to avoid that out here." "And you noticed that?" "You're only interested in horses." "We dressed her up in a hurry." "that's true." "I'll take care of that." "I mentioned it to her, but you better talk to her too." "Don't worry, I'll handle it." "Does it fit?" "You tell me." "How could it not." "after all I've worked on it." "Is that if for now, madam?" "Yes, I think so." "Now, could you drop these clothes off in my son's room?" "Yes, madam." "Oh, dear." "That one won't even look decent in a nun's habit." "Felisa. you're so negative." "I'll be quiet, but I know what I'm saying." "She never did anything to you." "You don't like her and that's not a Christian attitude." "She's not Christian Just look at her." "Don't say that, Felisa." "She's humble and obedient." "The quiet ones are the worst." "Do good unto others as the priest says." "Yes, but doing good is keeping your eye on her." "Oh, well." "We'll see what happens." "Come in!" "Excuse-me, sir." "Mrs. Carmen told me to bring you these clothes." "Thank you." "Please leave it on the table." "So many books, and you even have them on the ﬂoor." "I'm putting them in order." "You want me to help you?" "No, Susana, thank you." "Women don't understand these things." "Forgive me. sir." "Excuse-me." "Forgive me, I didn't mean to offend you." "If you want to help, we can start with these big books." "Are you mad at me?" "What nonsense." "Why would I be mad?" "You're treating me formally." "If that's all, can you hand me these books?" "Yes, Mr. Alberto." "Are you going to read all these books?" "I already have." "You must know many beautiful things." "But why keep them if you've already read them?" "Books are kept out of fondness." "Like a woman you love." "It's very different." "Hand me the blue book." "The one with the ribbon." "This one?" "What is it about?" " Goodness!" " What is it?" "A naked man." "Look, this is a book about mythology." "This is Apollo, he represents man's beauty." "I didn't know you could say a man was beautiful." " Are you teasing me?" " NO. seriously." "It's a symbol of beauty." "Just as your name is a symbol." " Really?" " May I tell you of what?" " Of what?" " Of chastity." "Are you hurt?" "No, and you?" "Alberto, are you in there?" "Yes, moth er." "Do you need something?" "No, nothing." "I was just passing by." "By the way, did Susana bring you your shirts?" "Yes, a while ago." "What's wrong?" "You seem odd." "Nothing." "I was organizing my books." "I'll let you continue." " Please, I have to go." " Don't go." " Please." " Wail." "Susana, I need to talk to you." "Well. here we are." " What's this secret of yours?" " You don't know, blondie?" "How should I?" "What do you want?" "I want you." "I like you." "But I don't like you and you need two people for that." "Aren't we two?" "Don't be surly." "Ever since I saw you, I knew I'd be able to tame you." "I'll make you very. very calm." "Easy." "You're the kind that talks to himself." "Don't you think I have something to say?" "Words are not necessary." "My word is enough." "You're that sure of yourself?" "I'm sure of what I want, that's what matters." "And that's what your eyes say when you're silent." "Let go of me!" "Let go!" "Tell me you like me." "Maybe not." "And maybe yes." "I have to give that some thought." "Suppose I don't want to wait." "It's up to you." "Don't be a prude." "Kiss me." "Just one." "Let me go, Jesus." "It's okay, beautiful." "You're afraid of me." "But I'll take care of you." "Me?" "Afraid?" "Of what?" "You don't know?" "Look at these arms." "They are strong and want to hold you." "It's better to be a prisoner of loving arms." "Than you know where." "What do you say?" "Well, then..." "I'll be honest with you." "I'm surly, but you know I like you." "You said it yourself." "But we have to make sure no one finds out." "Leave me for now." "We'll find a safe place and tomorrow..." "Tomorrow is never and later is too late." "No, Jesus." "This is crazy." "Alberto, son." "Find Jesus for me, please." "Mr. Severiano prescribed this for the mare... and he has to go get it right away." "And tell him to get the vet on his way back to give the shot." "What is it?" "What are you doing here, Susana?" "Don't get mad." "I was passing by and when I saw you with the bugs..." "I figured you're a scholar." "And since all scholars are old..." "So what?" "I don't want you to look old." "That means you like me a little." "A little?" "No, sir." "Forgive me if I don't believe you." "Are you mad again?" "It must be from studying too much." "That's why you look like and old man." "You must have something to do, right?" "I don't, besides, I'd love to be here with you for a moment." "I'm done with all my house chores." "And your barn chores?" "I don't understand." "What do you mean?" "Maybe Jesus is better than me." "Why should I care about Jesus?" "That's your business, but I saw you two going into the barn." "Yesterday you mean?" "He wanted to show me where the com was." "And for that you had to close the door?" "I didn't close it." "I gathered the corn and left out the orchard door." "Maybe he closed it." "Then, he's after you." "I swear I haven't noticed." "And what do I care what he does?" "I wish I could believe you." "but I can't." "Here I am." "Why did you do that?" "To make you tum around." "I should spank you." "You scared me, I thought you had fallen in." "And would you have been sad?" "No, I would have been happy." " Really?" " Yes." "Swear it." "There is someone up there." "I don't care." "Let me go see who it is." "No, wait." "Let me go check." "Help me!" "Help me!" "What's the matter, girl?" "My leg." "Did I shoot you?" "No, I fell from up there." "I thought I had shot you." "What are you doing here?" " Didn't you hear the shots?" " That's why I ran, sir." " Where does it hurt?" " Here." " Here?" " Not there." "Can you walk?" "I don't know, sir." "It hurts a lot." "Let's see." "Hold on." "Slowly, slowly." " Come on." " It hurts." "My handkerchief." "Wait here." "Let's go." "I am fine. sir." "Carmen . where are you?" "What's the matter?" "What happened?" "This scatterbrain fell down a cliff and hurt her knee." "It's nothing, really." "We should take care of that, it can lead to worse things." "Come with me." "Help me carry this girl." "I'm okay, madam." "We'll take care of you." "You'll stay in bed all day and tomorrow we'll see." "Come on." " What do you want?" " To come in." "Not here." "We might be seen." "Mr. Alberto is asleep." "I'm not referring to him." "but to anyone." "I'm referring to him." "This morning I saw you together at the well." "Then you know I'm free to do as I wish." "No, baby." "Not with me." "Mark my word." "I'm so scared." "Don't be silly." "I'm not one of those, Susana." "Watch out." "I like it when you laugh." "Pure breed bitch." "Listen to what I say." "You'll be mine." "no one else's." "Tomorrow evening I'll wait for you at the Carmelita ruins." "If you don't go, I'll tell the boss who you are and where you came from." "You haven't gone to bed yet?" "Are you feeling ill?" " I'm fine, mother." " You're burning up." "I'm telling you, it's nothing." "I just want to be alone." "that's all." " In the dark, son?" " Yes, in the dark." "I'm not afraid of the boogeyman and I don't need to ask permission." "I'm not a child, you don't need to watch over me." "Dear Lord." "How can you talk to your mother like that?" "You have always been so kind." "I can't believe it." "I can't believe it." "I'm just a bit nervous, that's all." "I didn't mean to upset you." "I swear." "Forgive me." "Poor child." "You study so much sometimes I wish you knew nothing." "You work too hard, as if your life depended on it." "All right, go to sleep." "Rest, my boy." "Yes, mother." "See you tomorrow." "See you tomorrow, son." "I'm worried about Alberto." "He's been irritable and nervous lately." "Today he was in his room in the dark and..." "And you asked what was wrong and he was rude, right?" "No, he's never rude, but I think he studies too hard... and he's at a very impressionable age." "If he was rude it's your own fault You are always on top of him..." " How can you say that?" " Leave him alone!" "He's not a colt anymore." "he can run on his own." "Besides, he's of good breeding." "Men are always protecting each other." "But you don't know how lonely a mother can feel when..." "If only we had a daughter..." "What's this handkerchief doing here?" "What handkerchief?" "What do I know?" "It's the one I gave Susana yesterday." "How did it end up in here?" "Did you bring it?" "Me?" "Why me?" "Are you going to treat me like Alberto now... with those annoying questions?" "Why are you acting this way?" "Your accusations have me fed up." ""What's this handkerchief doing here?" "Did you bring it?"" "I don't need this at my age." "I didn't do anything to make you think I'm accusing you." "Sure, as a typical woman you ask innocent loaded questions... and then you say it was nothing." "Women!" "Men!" "Good afternoon, boss." "You need more lambs?" "No, these are enough." "We should try with just a few before vaccinating the whole herd." "Beg your pardon, boss." "What is that?" "Vitamins, they make animals and people stronger." "That's amazing." "I wish they had a vita..." "One of those for bad mood." "Not for me, for my old lady." "Science would really be wonderful then." "All right, boss." "If you'll excuse me." "Go ahead." " Good morning, boss." " Good morning." "This is from Mr. Severiano." "Just a moment, Jesus." "Or is someone waiting for you?" "My duties, as usual." "May I help you?" "I was just wondering what duties you're referring to." "Professional or personal ones." "I don't know what you mean." "but work comes first." "Are you sure?" "I am." "You are not?" "I have my doubts." "Listen, youngster." "let's grab this bull by the horns." "Have I done anything or are you not happy about something?" "The bull you grab by the horns." "and how do you grab the cows?" " By surprise or treason?" " Wait a moment." "I am very fond of your family." "and they've helped me a lot... but I won't let you insult me or question my manhood." "I won't let you question my manhood either." "But my father gives you orders and pays you to follow them." "You better do it or you might get your other hand hurt." "Alberto..." "I had a hunch you'd come." "Really?" "But you probably don't know why I came." "To tell you I'm not ready to do as you please." "Really?" "You're brave." "You probably don't talk like that to the boss's son." "Watch out, Susana." "You can't mess with me." "You got what you wanted the other day, didn't you?" "You think you'll get anything else?" "Leave me alone!" "I'm not as weak as you think." "That's why I like you more and more." "I can't sleep thinking about you, I can't work or do anything." "But if you don't make it up to me..." "What?" "You'll tell the boss all you know about me?" "Sure, tell him." "And tell him why you kept it a secret." "They'll get rid of both of us and you'll never see me again." "No, not that." "I need you near me." "to breath your scent. see you..." "Let go of me!" "Remember this is my only home." "If I lose this..." "Come with me." "Come with me, girl." "You're insane." "I don't belong to any man nor to his desires." "If you behave, we can find a way." "If you don't..." "You got me, you little devil." "I'll do anything you say." "But let me kiss you, please." " Not now." " Right now." "Don't tell me you're afraid of getting caught." "Afraid?" "I just don't want to." "Let go!" "Let me go!" "Let go!" " Let go!" " What's going on?" "That's how you obey my orders?" "That's how you repay me for the help and trust..." "I've placed on you for so long?" " Boss, I..." " Be quiet!" "And get out of here." "When I return to the farm you better be gone or you'll regret it." "Did you hear?" "Go on!" "I didn't want this to happen." "but it's not my fault." "Please. believe me." "I better leave." "Don't cry, girl." "Get up." "You're not leaving." "I don't know what to do, sir." "It's always the same with me." "I don't even look at them." "I want to live in peace and be happy as I was before this..." "Don't mention him." "You'll stay here and I'll make sure no one bothers you again." "I'll do anything you want, I'll work nonstop." "I'll hide in a com er where no one will see me... so I can live near..." "Near a man as good as you." "It's all right, Susana." "You've never felt protected until this moment, right?" " I promise I'll protect you." " You're so good, sir." "Stand up." "You're the only man that has ever spoken to me like that." "Go do your chores, tonight I'll be back from town." "I'll ask my wife to give you a safer job... so you're not exposed to these perils." "Go on now." "Why are you working so hard and so quietly, Felisa?" "Hard as usual and quietly by force... not to cause you a headache." " What are you talking about?" " Nothing." "But this house is always full of news." "When it's not the sick mare." "It's the devil coming to stay... or Jesus leaving the hacienda." "Heavens." "I've said it!" "Jesus is leaving?" "That's not possible?" "Why?" "He's in the courtyard with all his things." "Without even saying goodbye?" "That's not right." " What happened?" " Ask Susana." "Come here." "Is it true you're leaving?" "Not by my own Wee will." "Mr. Guadalupe doesn't want me to stay here." "He probably scolded you for something stupid." "You know him." "Tell me what happened and I'll fix it." "You better ask him." "I get a knot in my throat just thinking of leaving this place." "You've been so good to me." "Goodbye, madam." "And thank you for your kindness." "Didn't I tell you?" "I slaved making his favorite dish... and he won't even touch it." "It's time, Alberto." "What's the matter?" "Eating so little and studying so much his brain will turn to mush." "What the hell!" "I Said it." "You're responsible for spoiling him so much." "If he was my son..." "Not even Felisa's rants make you laugh." "Something is wrong and I don't like that." "You will eat for me and tell me about it as you eat." "I will sit right beside you." "I'm not hungry, mother." "that's all." "It's about time you and I had a good chat." "I suffer seeing you like this." "so talk to me if you love me." "I have nothing to say, I'm fine." "You used to confide in me." "You'd tell me everything." "Who can understand you better than I?" "Come on, son." "It's nothing." "Just a headache I've had since last night." "In that case I'll get you an aspirin." "Wait, mother." "I already took an aspirin." "I better lay down." "There's nothing like rest to cure a headache." "And nothing like opening up to cure other things." "Good night, son." "It's me, Susana,Alberto." "Open up." "Don't come in." " Here are your things." " Finally." "I was getting worried about you." "Did something happen?" "What could have happened?" "I was just busy." "I was in town, I checked the ravine stables, and did other things." "And Alberto?" "He had a headache and that gets him into a terrible mood." "He went to bed early." "I know you're never unfair." "but why did you fire Jesus?" "If you kn ow that, you know why." "You must have asked him." "He left without saying." "He said you..." " That I what?" " That you'd explain it better." "So, again, I have to justify my actions." "Fine, that's enough." "I'll explain." "I wanted to set an example so no one will disobey me." "Jesus disobeyed you?" "That's strange." "He's so willing." "Always so..." "What did he do?" "What difference does it make?" "It's all the same." "Don't get mad." "I just wanted to know." "Yes, sure." "There must be an explanation." "a reason..." "There is no reason for someone who disobeys... by trying to take advantage of a poor woman." "I knew she was the reason." "Susana." "You fired him because of Susana with out checking.." "If she had led him on." "Didn't you say I'm fair?" "Then let me be fair." "Susana only has us to protect her and Jesus behaved like a..." "And why are you so upset?" "It's not that bad." "Not bad to have this happen in my own house?" "To have him dishonor the respect a woman deserves?" "Come on!" "And you are defending Jesus!" "I'd rather be quiet." "Good night, Guadalupe." "What's the matter with you?" "You don't even say good morning." "Hello, Felisa." "Tell my mother I'll be back late from the fields." "You'll bring more bugs from the fields with all the cockroaches we have here?" "You're so serious!" "I bet you haven't had breakfast." "I had a glass of milk." "If you'll just wait a minute I'll get you a sandwich and..." "Imagine that!" "Leaving while I'm still talking!" "It's almost eight and that bum is still sleeping." "We'll see about that." "Wow, you're still in bed." "They didn't bring you your chocolate milk?" "You were still in bed, that's why." "As the saying goes: "From the street will come she who will... throw you out of your own house"." ""Raise crows and they will tear your eyes out"." " What the hell are you thinking?" " You joked about the chocolate." "Like I'd serve you chocolate, you good-for-nothing." "I can never get angry in the morning." "Maybe because I'm young." "I can't hear a word." "I'm made of wood." "Holy Mary, give me patience and give me an answer..." "Get up, get dressed and go clean the dining room and patio ﬂoors." "Without breakfast, boss?" "God knows his doings." "If I were your boss I'd have..." "All the bread they put to waste by giving it to you..." "If you feel so bad about it imagine if it was your bread." "If it was mine, I wouldn't even give you a drop of water." "Christian soul." "She's damned!" "I have to control myself." "You big mouth lazy bum!" "I've already paid for my sins." "I'm a sinner, I'm a sinner." " You haven't started yet?" " I was starting right now." "When you're done with this." "get your rags... and move into one of the workers' cabins." "Felisa will tell you where." "But. madam. me. over there?" "We all feel more comfortable where we belong." "I just wanted to know if I've done something wrong." "And by asking for an explanation you're out of place." "I know there are people here who dislike me, madam." "But it's not my fault if I'm different from the gossipers who..." "Go do as I said." "Felisa, let's take care of our things." "You can take her, Pascual." "She's a beauty, no doubt But your mare is unique." "You're right." "But how could she get so sick?" "When the time comes we all." "humans and animals. have to go." "I hate seeing her suffer but I can't get myself to putting her to sleep." "Let's wait one more day." "There's always hope." "Tomorrow I can give her a lethal injection." "No, if she has to die." "I'll help her out... and with the same gun I killed her mother." "I understand, Mr. Guadalupe." "It's very difficult, but killing who you love is proof of your love." " See you tomorrow, Mr. Severiano." " Yes. and we'll see." "I think these duties are too arduous for you." "I'll ask my wife to give you more decent work." "You're so good to me, Sir, that..." "I don't like to see anyone out of place." "What were you saying?" "Nothing, sir." "I've already inconvenienced enough." "I order you to tell me." "I can't deny you anything, sir." "But how can the madam agree to give me delicate chores... after she asked me to move to the workers' quarters." "She's a very good woman and I must obey her." "That seems strange because she's incapable of..." "It must be Felisa's doing I just know it." " Rosario!" " At your service, sir." "Come here." " Finish washing the ﬂoor." " As you wish." "No, sir." "Mrs. Carmen will think I've disobeyed her and..." "Go rest, Susana." "Go." "It's nice to be young and strong." "If you're done with the ﬂoors I have an other task for you." "Rosario is not done yet." "but I'll tell her to hurry up." "What are you talking about?" "Rosario?" "She's finishing up the ﬂoors." "I can't do such arduous chores." "Are you making fun of me." "you shameful woman?" "With all the respect I have for you?" "Not at all." "But I'm delicate and if I get tired I start coughing." "See?" "Then wear some lemons around your neck... because my dog died from the same cough." "How insolent!" "Don't bite your tongue." "you might poison yourself." "You're not obeying us?" "Fine, we'll see about that." "Mrs. Carmen." "As the saying goes: "The jug goes to the water so many times... until it finally breaks"." "What's the matter, Felisa?" "This little princess made Rosario wash the ﬂoors... because she's very delicate and she coughs." "That can't be true." "You're exaggerating, as always." "I asked you to wash the ﬂoors and you'll wash them... until they shine, go." "Yes, madam." "As you wish." "Good-for-nothing!" "If you're so obedient, why did you stop washing them?" "Tell me." "I'll tell you because you're ordering me." "Mr. Guadalupe..." "He very well knows I'm the one who orders the house help." "I know that, but I got confused with all the contradicting orders." "It might me better if you told him." "Leave this house immediately!" "Leave!" "Madam, I'll do as you wish." "but don't send me away." "Go away!" "What's the matter?" "ls there a problem?" "A problem?" "No problem at all." "I'm just firing this girl, that's all." "Listen. you're very nervous." "Of course, if you're right I won't argue." "If I'm right?" "You can doubt me if you wish." "We'll talk after Susana is gone." "Until then, I have nothing to say to you." "Calm down. woman." "I should know why she's leaving before she goes." "Can you explain?" "Did you explain to me why Jesus left?" "You handle the workers I'll handle the maids." "You do as you wish and so do I." " I insist on knowing." " We're in Wont of the maids." " Can't you see?" " Even better." "It will be settled sooner since it's regarding one of them." "You're Wee to not give me an explanation." " But if that's the case I'll have to..." " What?" "For the good of my home I'll be forced to order.." "This gill to stay until there's a full explanation for it." "That's all." "I came to get you, honey." "I can't live without you." "You're alone and I love you." "You know that." "I'll take care of you and give you all you want." "For the last time, Jesus, go take care of your life." "I'm here and here I'll stay." "Don't provoke me, Susana." "I'm not leaving without you, no matter what." "Are you sure?" "I love you, I need you like the fields need the sun..." "I've seen many men like you." "You think I'll throw all this away for you?" "With all the disgust I feel for you?" "Let go of me!" "No, you're not a purebred bitch like I thought." "You're a viper, a slut." "You will now know who I am and what I'm capable of." "I promise you'll find out soon even if it kills me!" "I promise you!" "Let go of me!" "Susana. what's wrong?" "Come here." "What's the matter?" "Why are you crying?" "I feel horrible, sir." "Why did I have to bring discord to this house?" "Why?" "It's not your fault." "Mrs. Carmen is a saint and I..." "I thought it was harsh making me live with the workers... but I should have left this house like she wanted." "Don't even think about it anymore." "It's over." "No, Mrs. Carmen is suffering I have to leave, sir." "I have offered you my support." "my affection." "That's the only thing that's stopping me from leaving." "You look at me like a human being." "not like other men, who..." "You felt sorry for me." "Not son"y." "I felt affection, fondness, justice, it's different." "Not sorry." "Maybe that's why I should leave." "Even if it destroys me." "Forgive me. sir." "Get up." "Forgive me, but if I couldn't see you anymore..." "I don't know what I would do." "I want you." "Leave me now." "Madam..." "Mrs. Carmelita." "You look like the Magdalene." "Take a sip." "It will calm you down." "Leave me alone." "Felisa." "Leave me alone." "I need to be alone." "I am alone!" "For God's sake." "I beg you, go away." "Don't be afraid." "I had to talk to you, Susana." "Not now." "tomorrow in the fields." "You think I can wait until tomorrow?" "Do you not know I love you?" "I know, tell me everything tomorrow." "I don't know if you'll still be here." "I know my mother wanted to fire you." "My father is so upset he's a different man." "They can make you leave but I can't lose you!" "Everything will be fine." "I'm sure." "Now go, it would be horrible if they found us together." "Maybe it's best you leave." "I'll take you to town." "I'll visit you everyday." "You'll have all you want." "Let me go!" "We'll talk tomorrow, Alberto." "Now go, let me think." "Go." " Susana, please." " See you tomorrow." "Go." "Please!" "What are you doing here at this time of the night?" "I wanted to talk to Susana, father." "What is so important and why were you forcing her door open?" " Don't say that." " Answer me!" "What do you need to tell her in the middle of the night like a thief?" "That's my business and no one else's." "Are you mad?" "How dare you speak to me like that?" " You called me a thief!" " For lack of a better word." "Answer me!" "What are you doing here?" "I love Susana." "and no one can stop me." "Tomorrow morning you'll go back to Mexico City." "Now go back to your room and give me the key to it." "You're going to lock me in?" "I'm not a kid anymore and I'm not afraid of you." "You can deny me anything but being in love." "Either you obey me or I won't be responsible for my actions." "I'll leave, but I won't go back to school." "I'm going to start my life off with Susana." "What did you say?" "If you don't go back to your room right now, I'll drag you there." "Don't touch me, father." "because if you do..." "Alberto!" "Come with me. son." "Come." "Let me go, mother." "Calm down." "How could you raise a fist to your father?" "How?" "He wanted to hit me." "force me to..." "Even so, Alberto." "He's your father." "you owe him your life." "He's violent, strict." "but he's not bad." "What was the reason for that?" "You feel guilty about something." " I don't." "You're being unfair." " Then, tell me." "Tell me, open up." "I'm your mother and I'll help you, no matter what it is." "Trust me, I'll help you." "You didn't do anything wrong, did you?" "First he called me a thief and then..." " What?" " You make me feel like a criminal." "As if love were a crime." "SO. you're in love?" "Yes, mother." "I'm in love and it's eternal." "I should have guessed." "After all. you're a man now." "Who is she, son?" "If you love her she must be good." "Who is she?" "Right?" "She must be good, right?" "I knew you would understand." "It's Susana." " Mother..." " You too!" "What's the matter, mother?" "Wail!" "Dear God!" "Dear God!" "Tears are for what can't be remedied, madam." ""God helps those who help themselves."" "You have to throw that bitch out." "God forgive me, but I've felt like killing her." "I knew she was the devil and she'd ruin our lives." "Throw her out!" "No, Felisa." "Can't you see they're both crazy?" "My husband and my son." "I can't believe it." "They would kill each other for her." "they'd go after her." "There must be a way." "Something that will open their eyes." "God can't forsake me." "No, madam." "Throw her out." "As the saying goes:" ""Shoot first, ask later."" "Throw her out before it's too late." "I have a hunch." "throw her out." "It's the right moment." "Throw her out!" "Dear Lord, I don't ask for anything for me." "I just want to save the home you've given me." "Lord, give me your word so they'll believe me, and your hand to open their eyes." "And give me tiger teeth to..." "Get dressed." "You'll leave this house immediately, before I..." "Did you hear me?" "Immediately." "I'll leave when the master asks me to." "I'm ordering you and that's enough." "What if you left instead of me?" "What if you left instead of me?" "How would that be?" "Here, madam." "Don't get your hands dirty." "I'm Christian and I don't want to..." "And you're also old." "I'm young and beautiful and he wants me!" "You let her offend you?" "Even our Lord threw the merchants out of the temple when he had enough." "Hither, madam!" "If you dare touch me." "I swear I'll make your husband... throw you out of here." "Carmen, stop!" "What have you done?" "How could you?" "She hates me." "She hates me because you protect me." "Because I love you." "That's why she wants to throw me out." "No, you won't be the one to leave this house." "Father!" "You're right." "I should leave." "You're crazy." "You're saying that because of this slut." "There she is." "Just a moment." "Come in, sirs." "What do you want?" " And who are these people?" " They come for her, sir." "It's not true!" "What?" "I'm from the State Reformatory." "This woman escaped our facility and we've been looking for her." "You shouldn't have given her shelter." "She's dangerous." "It's not true!" "It's not time!" "And you knew." "I can't even face you, boss." "And why didn't you say anything?" "Do I need to explain?" "You're right." " Officer, proceed with your duty." " Take her away." "Father!" "Damn you!" "Let go of me!" "I'll tear her eyes out!" "Throw her out!" "I told you she was the devil." " Good morning, mother." " Good morning, son." "Did you sleep well?" "I'm sure you'll sleep better tonight." "In the bedroom I left you a letter to say what I can't say face to face." "There you will find my address in Mexico City." "Son, are you seated at the table before your father again?" "It's a beautiful morning." "pure heaven." " There are no ﬂies even." " Excuse-me." "What do you want, Jesus?" "Come in." "Before leaving I wanted to come tell you... that the mare's fever is gone." "Look how she trots happily." "as if nothing had happened." "It's a dream come true." "Then... goodbye, boss." "Goodbye, Alberto." "Goodbye, madam." "Get back to your duties, Jesus." "There's a lotto be done." "Yes, sir." "A real dream come time." "The rest was a nightmare." "The devil's nightmare." "This is God's will."