Summary

Julia’s tío Bigotes throws her seven-year-old cousin Victor a birthday party. Julia wants to stay home to search for the key to Olga’s room and to have some time to herself, but Amá insists she go. Julia dutifully kisses everyone, even greeting her least favorite uncle, tío Cayetano, who would stick his finger in her mouth when she was a child. During dinner, Julia dodges comments about her weight and appetite, especially from her vicious tía Milagros. Julia silently judges her cousin Vanessa, a teenaged mother. By contrast, she idolizes cousins Freddy and Alicia, who have college educations and good jobs, travel for pleasure, and dress with flair. After discussing her future plans with them, Julia retreats to the deserted living room to read her book.

After some time Julia’s father and uncles adjourn...