“That was a pretty incredible thing you did at the ceremony,” Val says between sips.
“Well, let’s just say I learned I can be strong. And brave.”
I think of my father’s letter about fighting for the ones you love.
“Well, color me impressed. It’s so nice to see the real Isa. And for everyone else to see her too.” Valentina smiles.
“Hear I am!” I do a spin, my dress flowing half a second behind me.
“I can’t believe you put together the big secret in your father’s journal. You and Sofia are half sisters! This is insane.”
“I know; I couldn’t believe it until I saw the other half of the photograph.”
I reach into my clutch and pull out the photograph Sofia and I taped together and show Valentina.
“Oh my God, this is incredible. I’m so happy for you, Isa. Look at you two little babies!” she coos.
I can’t help but look up at Valentina’s eyes. The way they glisten under the starry lights. I reach up toward her, pull her closer, my hand behind her neck, and place my lips against hers.
“Ew, get a room!” Maria shouts as she walks over to us. “What a crazy week, huh? Sisters. Who would have thought? Aren’t you glad I forced you to come? This all happened because of me, you know. You’re welcome.”
“Yes,” I say, laughing. “I know you’re just being a pendeja right now, but none of this would have happened if you didn’t get me out of my fake little world. I can’t thank you enough.”
“Oh, stop it,” Maria says, grinning. “I’m just happy to see my prima finally happy with someone. Treat her well, Val. Or I’ll find you. I know where you live.”
“I promise I will,” Valentina says with a chuckle.
As they hug each other, someone taps my shoulder. I turn around to see Maritza standing there with her arms crossed.
“Hola, Tía,” I say cautiously.
“I just wanted to say that I thought your speech was nice.” She looks away, trying to appear uninterested.
“Thanks, Tía.”
I wait for her to leave, but she lingers.
“Is there anything else?” I wonder out loud.
“I also wanted to say that…you’re not the only one with secrets.”
At this point, Valentina turns around and stands next to me, wrapping her arm around my waist and pulling me closer.
“This might seem hard to believe, but I haven’t been with my husband for many years. I’ve been…dating someone…else.”
Valentina and I both look at each other, trying not to laugh.
“Oh yeah? Who is it?” I ask, knowing full well who it is.
Maritza looks around to see if anyone is close by.
“It’s Gabriel. Roberto’s best friend,” she says, wincing.
“Wow, really? That’s surprising. I had no idea,” I stifle a giggle.
“I know it seems far-fetched. Why would someone amazing like me be with someone like Gabriel, a measly landlord? But he makes me laugh. And I…love him.”
“That’s great, Tía! Don’t be ashamed of it. Gabriel is a great guy, and I don’t think anyone cares. Even if they did, whatever. Love him with all your heart, okay?”
