Golden Secrets

“Harris?”

“What Harris? This man sailed in from the Philippines. His wife makes silk kimonos. He brought boxes of them,” Papa said. “Where is baby Carlos? I’ve been telling him all about our boy.”

“His wife?” Clara stared up at Harris.

“Look, his eyes are like the baby’s.” As soon as Papa said this, he recognized Harris. His gaze darted around the room, looking for the baby.

“He’s asleep, Papa.” Alicia turned toward Harris. “I do not believe you have a permit to trade here, sir.” She could not believe her own boldness. “You have worn out your welcome.”

“But, but,” Harris sputtered in protest. “Alicia, Clara, you have grown up.”

“Such a long time with no word from you.” Clara found her voice.

“You missed your chance with my daughters, sir.” Papa came to his senses and his courage. “Your goods are not welcome here.”

Everyone could hear baby Carlos howling from the back of the residence. The infant cried whenever he was separated from the rest of the family.

“Let me look at this boy. He sounds just like one of my own sons,” Harris said.

“One of your sons?” Clara thumped her forehead on the table. Mama stood as Harris took a step toward the cry of his child.

“Carlos is our son.” Papa grabbed Harris by the arm and dragged him to the door. “Our son, Carlos Antonio Ortega, has the boldest cry of all babies in creation. He will make a fine heir to Rancho Refugio. Adiós, señor Harris.”

If he tried to stay, Harris knew the four women and one old man would protect the child to their last breath. Finally, defeated and dejected, Harris retrieved his merchandise and disappeared forever.

The best and the worst all happened in one brief visit. Alicia’s wish to have Harris banished from the rancho was granted. Clara’s heartbreak, and Mama and Papa’s lie about their son, were laid bare. It was a quiet lunch. Only baby Carlos, resting in Mama’s arms, gurgled and cooed, a reminder of the day’s events.

Days passed, and Clara would not leave the sleeping loft. Alicia visited her with special teas and quiet words. Mama and Papa did not know why Clara was so upset. They carried on as if nothing unusual had happened, covering the footprints of their own dishonesty.