Bill of Human Wrongs

Claire poured cream into her cup and raised it for a sip. “I don’t usually use this stuff, but it’s rather good.” She leaned into the table and started in on Eve. “Come clean, lady. Who put you up to this? What the hell is your reason for this? God, just leave me alone. I don’t want any more confrontation tonight.” She put her head down to play with the stir stick. She knew Rachel wasn’t coming, there wasn’t any reason for her to be here at this ungodly hour.

“Come clean? God, Claire. What do I need to do to convince you?” Eve slid out of the booth and reached over to grab her bag. “I don’t believe we’re getting anywhere, it’s been nice.” She tugged at the side of her purse, tipping it so that its contents fell onto the table. “Damn it!” She began throwing her things inside, her anger intensified.

It was the big red font that caught Claire’s attention. While Eve was tossing her things back in her bag, Claire picked up the newspaper that had fallen out with the other items.

Interrupting, she blurted, “What is this, Eve?” She held the paper up, and pointed at the headline.

Eve glanced at it. “My God, I forgot about that. I bought it at the gas station a few hours ago.” Then she erupted with laughter. “Well, Ms. Fancy Pants. Looks like I have proof after all.” She sat again, and smiled. “Read it, Claire, and please read aloud so I can hear.”

Claire stared intently at the headline, then slowly raised her head to look at Eve. “I don’t speak Spanish.” Claire moved to the end of her booth so she could stand, and raised her hands in the air to make an announcement to the room. “Does anyone know Spanish in here? I need an interpreter.” She looked around, disappointed. There were no takers. She sat, somewhat frustrated.

Then, a man sitting in one of the alcoves stood and made his way to their table. “Ladies, what can I do for you?”

Claire handed him the paper and asked him to read the headliner article.

The man picked up the news paper and stood over them reading, translating. “Conchita – Still Missing.”