Summary

Chapter 7 (Love). Eliza has spent several weeks fantasizing about Joaquin. When he returns to the house, she gives him a note telling him to meet her in three days at a secluded spot on the property. Even though Rose and Mama Fresia are keeping an eye on her and concerned about this burgeoning romance, they have not been able to catch her doing anything they can stop. Joaquin appears at the appointed meeting time and the two begin to get to know each other. He brings her love letters each time they meet and they have long discussions about their families and their futures. Eventually, they meet in a storeroom at Eliza’s house where they make love for the first time. Each time they meet in secret there, it is magical. Eliza idealizes her first love, overlooking some of his flaws. The most prominent...