Abracadabra, Stop the Curse!

By Dunnia Balcázar-Goldstein

This is the story of a great lie between members of a middle class family: the Daniels. The direction of their lives changed dramatically as a result of a marriage and the birth of a child. The Danielss alcohol dependency, the Powells unhealthy influence, a priests spiritual failure, erodes the weak structure which apparently sustains the moral principles of our characters, when they fall into a vast web woven into disloyalty, revenge and lust. Overwhelmed by the devastating result of their acts, they realized, but not until much later, that they had been their only victims for wanting to control the lives of others with the sole purpose of satisfying their harmful intentions. Reduced to living in constant turbidity, they did not suspect that inner reconciliation and redemption were hidden from the beginning, behind love.



I would like to add a credit for the artist Jorge Posada, who provided his paintings for the covers of both books.

Covers by Colombian artist Jorge Posada
http://www.jorgeposada-art.com

• Language: English
• Publisher: Xlibris US
• Release date: Jul 28, 2010
• ISBN: 9781453532560

Dunnia Balcázar-Goldstein

Dunnia Balcázar was born in Barranquilla, Colombia, daughter of Dr. Augusto Balcázar and Yolanda Brandé. Acclaimed soloist in the Colombian Folkloric Ballet of Sonia Osorio, and as actress for the stage and television under the direction of Colombian playwright Enrique Osorio, she abandoned her artistic career to marry David Cumpston, an International banker in New York, where she worked as an interpreter for the Civil and Landlord and Tenant Courts and a certified translator for the Mayor’s Office and the Housing Authority. She cooperated in founding a language bank for free services to the immigrants of New York City. For many years she devoted herself as a volunteer at renowned classical music organizations. After becoming a widow, she married Nathan Goldstein, a violinist with the New York Philharmonic. As a Goldstein now, Dunnia resides in New Jersey and has two children: John Sebastian and Maria del Pilar. She has written two novels: ¡Abracadabra, Que Pare La Maldición! and Beyond the Eclipse.

Book preview

Copyright © 2010 by Dunnia Balcázar-Goldstein.

Library of Congress Control Number:    2010910853

ISBN:                       Hardcover            978-1-4535-3255-3

                                 Softcover              978-1-4535-3254-6

                                 Ebook                   978-1-4535-3256-0

All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, recording, or by any information storage and retrieval system, without permission in writing from the copyright owner.

This is a work of fiction. Names, characters, places and incidents either are the product of the author’s imagination or are used fictitiously, and any resemblance to any actual persons, living or dead, events, or locales is entirely coincidental.

This book was printed in the United States of America.

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Contents

PROLOGUE

THE CHARACTERS IN OUR STORY

CHAPTER I

The Inevitable Encounter between Jack Daniels

and His Fate

The Great Depression, Pittsburgh, and Its Steel Industry

A Previously Arranged Visit

The Premeditated Execution of a Plan

The Praying Mantis

Jack Feels Like the Owner and the Master

A Bed Covered with Faded Petals

CHAPTER II

The Initial Mystery That Always Exists between Strangers

Carolyn Is Bitten by Curiosity

An Ordinary Family’s Problems

The Enigmatic Maxine Powell

Tyrone Powell Exudes His Musk

Jack and Rip Daniels, Brothers in More Than One Way

CHAPTER III

Father Sebastian’s Impure Secrets

An Invitation Worth Considering

A Tarot Reading

The Fascinating World of One More

An Unexpected Trap in an Intrinsically Entangled Web

Claudette Van Hoven, Nahweh, a Noble Black Man

and His Horses

CHAPTER IV

One More, Obsession, and Nadir

Nadir, the Threshold of Hell

Mabel Powell’s Dilemma

The Cat Swallows a Poisoned Canary

Vague Memories of an Outrageous Night

A Confession with No Fear of God

Sebastian Ferrans Confronts His Inner Demons

An Inevitable Consequence

CHAPTER V

An Unexpected Resource

Two Immigrants Discover New Horizons

A True Friendship Begins

Sebastian and Maxine Wander among Shadows

The Sacrilege

Jeff Andrews, Crazy or Perverse?

Nadir Prevents the Butterfly from Escaping

The Night Is a Mulatta, a Different Kind of Ballet.

CHAPTER VI

The Sick Aversion of Two Innocents

A Beautiful Surprise That Carries Serious Consequences

After Eight Years of Ignorance

Jack’s Shameful Revenge

Destiny Hides Itself behind Many Faces

The Deadly Sin That Was Not Confessed

A Pile of Nightmares

CHAPTER VII

A Serious Conflict

The Good Seem to Die Young

The Scorpion’s Venom

That Night, God Was Absent

A Crack Filled with Decay

The Bloody Price of Shame

A Sordid Discovery

Life Is Unexpectedly Reborn

One Moment of Reflection and Another of Insanity

CHAPTER VIII

An Unfortunate Year

Can Nobility Be Unfair?

Entering the Monastery

The Belly of the Beast

The Village and Its Bohemian Life

Jean-Pierre Aaron, a False Male

An Easy Catch and a Harsh Reality

Arriving at the Bottom of the Abyss

CHAPTER IX

Sometimes God Speaks Too Softly

Two Diplomas: One of Life and One of School.

Todd Higgins Has a Wise Solution

The Search for a Rotten Root

Confrontation between a Snake and a Mongoose

Mother and Daughter Fiercely Look

into Each Other’s Eyes

A Pathetic Life and Death

CHAPTER X

Alcoholism’s Curse

Jeff’s Love Affair

Unexpected News

Isabel Hides Other Secrets As Well

Pat Daniels’s Premature Death

An Unexpected Turn of the Roulette

A Game Won by an Ingenious Trick

CHAPTER XI

Cupid Rolls over Laughing

A Perfectly Convenient Absence

Paul Daniels and Eva Uribe

A Humiliating Encounter

Indelible Scars

A Wedding Present with the Smell of Death

AIDS, an Unknown Disease

We Are Born Alone, and We Die Alone

CHAPTER XII

A Veil Embroidered with Darkness

Tyrone, Tyrone, How Far Do You Think You’ll Get?

Catharsis

The Reconciliation

Big Risks

Salty Tears and Sweet Rain

Sebastian’s Liberation!

A Solemn Flip of the Coin

You Can’t Live without Hope

Months Later

This book is dedicated to all of the alcoholics who, through their faith in a higher being or their extraordinary willpower, were able to rehabilitate themselves, to those still struggling to become sober, and to those who ultimately gave up, because they didn’t love themselves enough and preferred to die rather than free themselves from its curse, but above all, I dedicate these lines to those who candidly allowed themselves to be hostages of their loved addicted ones, and ultimately, by the curse!

Prologue

This is the story of a massive lie kept by the members of a normal middle-class family, the Daniels. The course of their lives changes drastically after a woman comes into their lives through the sacred vow of holy matrimony. The alcoholic dependence suffered by the Daniels and the unhealthy influence of the Powells lead our characters through a series of events marked by betrayal, vengeance, and lust.

Jack’s emotional error, Carolyn’s enormous lie, Jeff’s desire for revenge, a priest’s spiritual failings, and Paul’s weakness are factors that further erode the weak structure that sustains the moral principles of our characters. This structure disintegrates when they all find themselves trapped in a vast web of intrigue and evil. Clouded by the devastating result of their actions, it is only much later in the story that they realize that they were the only victims of their desire to control the lives of others in order to satisfy their wicked intentions.

Eva’s love, Todd’s ultimate criminal sacrifice, and Isabel’s devotion undoubtedly redeem those who have been reduced to living in a perpetual darkness since they understand that their personal reconciliation and redemption was within reach from the beginning.

The Characters in Our Story

Jack and Rip Daniels, Tyrone Powell, Charles Craig: the most important men in our story.

Carolyn, Isabel Andrews, and Maxine Powell: the three main female characters.

Ed, Bill, Dick, Rip, and Jack Daniels: the five Daniels brothers.

Anne, Meg, Paul, and Pat Daniels: the children of Carolyn and Jack Daniels.

Sebastian Ferrans: a condemned priest.

Mabel Powell and Franco Amalfi: unlucky lovers.

Paul Daniels: a victim of circumstances.

Jeff Andrews: an innocent victim of a serious lie.

Jean Pierre Aaron and Madame Marie Besset: French Jews who drastically change Paul’s life.

Todd Higgins: Paul Daniels’s best friend and saving grace.

Eva Uribe: a passionate woman and a scapegoat.

Miles Andrews, Michael Ferrell, Rose Craig, Helen Compton, Sonja and Ian Koster, SinKa, Titina, Claudette and Tom Powell, Itoka and Trou, Debora, Mariana, Berta, Astrid and Alice Dipini, Rocco Marsh, Casey Brown, Ron, Lydia, James and Monserrate: other significant characters in our story.

CHAPTER I

The Inevitable Encounter between Jack Daniels

and His Fate

John Alexander Daniels, or Jack, as he was known, was an extremely good-looking man, well-built, with a strong constitution, but easily provoked when drunk. Even though he enjoyed a solid reputation among his superiors as a good friend and hard worker, since he took his responsibilities seriously, his subordinates feared him because of his strict nature. Yet, they also showed genuine appreciation and respect for his ability to astutely control the two hundred employees under his command at the city’s iron and steel deposits. The employees understood his personality and knew that his good mood could suddenly change if he was contradicted or disobeyed, so they tried not to refute or upset him. Despite the difficult postwar climate, Jack had to travel to England to attend the funeral and the reading of the will of his maternal grandmother, Victoria Anderson. She had lived with her family in the United States, but had returned to her native land to share the last years of her life with her only sister, Anne. The grandmother had left the country when the mother of the Daniel boys had died from flu during the 1941 epidemic that struck Pittsburgh.

Ever since his childhood, London seemed like a dream city to Jack. When he was a little boy, both his parents and his grandmother had talked to him about some of the events that occurred in that country, which seemed supernatural to him. When he saw and experienced firsthand the fearful devastation of the city brought about by the German bombardment, Jack became so depressed that his first impulse was to return immediately to the United States.

But I should try to find my friend before leaving, he thought, and decided to wait a little more in order to be able to find him and see him one more time.

This plan was easy enough to carry out since he was able to remember the name of the town in which his friend was living—Liverpool.

Jack’s childhood friend Charles Craig was born in Ohio but was raised in Pittsburgh, and the two were close friends from an early age since they were neighbors and went to the same school. As an adult, Jack suffered because of his friend’s absence. Charles had decided to settle down in England when he received a scholarship to study architecture, which had been a childhood dream. After graduating, he landed a top job at a renowned architectural firm, thanks to one of his professors, who was a close friend of the company’s CEO. Since he did not come from a family as well-off as his friend Charles, Jack had to adapt to his situation after earning his bachelor’s degree and begin working like his father in the steel mines and factories. He was just another worker since he came from a large family without much money. At first, the two friends wrote to each other frequently, but their correspondence dropped little by little. It remained sporadic for a while and then dropped to almost nothing, which happens with so many friends and family who can’t make the time because of life’s demands.

A few years later, he found out that Charles had married an English girl named Rosemary Evans. The war gave rise to a strong desire to recover the friendship that had existed between the two young men, and Jack dreamed of seeing his friend again in the not-too-distant future. Since their childhood, the two friends had felt a hunch that their fates were crossed; and because of that, they never understood fate’s dirty trick of separating them. They felt as though something had gone wrong. When the war started and England was attacked by the Germans, Jack couldn’t stop worrying about Charles. He wrote to him several times without ever getting a response. He let the intense love that he felt for his dear friend and his eagerness to know if he had survived the horrendous destruction of London show in the letters that he wrote. He remembered that Charles had told him in one of his old letters that he’d gone to live far from London since Rose preferred to live away from the city. Despite the fact that Liverpool was an industrial city, it was well known that one could also live a rural life there. With his mind made up, Jack went to the train station to buy a round-trip ticket to the city from which he’d received the last card from his friend. Thinking that he would be able to find him through a telephone operator or the post office, he traveled to this other mining city with specific doubts in his mind. But since he vaguely remembered the address, he instinctively went there and was surprised to find the house that he remembered from a photograph sent some time ago from his friend.

I knew it would be easy for me to find you, you big jerk, Jack said to himself. Without thinking, he went to the railing that separated the lawn from the front door.

When they found themselves face-to-face, they were both filled with the type of emotion one might expect from a long-awaited reunion. They were unable to contain the euphoria that overcame them, and their hugs became stronger and more effusive. Visibly emotional, Jack shouted in a broken voice, Charles, I’m so happy to see you, buddy! You don’t know how happy it makes me to know that you are alive. I was worried that you and Rose might not be safe.

It was a miracle. I tore a ligament and that kept me at home.

Charles helped his friend take off his raincoat. Jack noticed the cane that his friend used to support himself because of his limp.

And how are you getting along?

Much better, thanks. I’m almost completely recovered.

The two friends looked directly at each other, curiously examining one another. Jack laughed happily.

What happened to your medieval squire haircut?

Jack tried to contain his laughter while Charles passed both of his hands over his incipient baldness with a mixture of surprise and contentment.

You didn’t know that bald men are manlier than long-haired guys like yourself?

Is that so? Well, I guess I’m going to have to shave it all off then.

Both men burst out laughing as they hugged each other once more and gave each other a kiss on each cheek. They spoke at the same time, running over each other’s words, as the questions and answers went back and forth without a pause.

When are you thinking of coming back to the States? Jack asked. Without waiting for a response, he continued, Remember that you’re not British.

Charles heard him and sighed, and then offered an explanation.

You know that my parents died and that my only sister lives in Argentina, right? Besides, I’m married to Rose, who doesn’t want to live in America since her whole family is here.

Charles invited Jack to take a seat and continued talking.

Are you asking me if I might go back to the United States? One day, probably, but I don’t think I could live there again. I seriously doubt it. And with a guilty look on his face, he continued, I just have a couple of cousins in California and some aunts and uncles with whom I hardly have any contact. Do you want some whiskey or would you prefer gin?

A whiskey would be great, Jack then apologized for getting ahead of himself and momentarily forgetting Charles’s situation. You’re right. Sorry, for a second I forgot that Rose is English and that Pauline lives in Argentina. How are they both?

Pauline is happily married to a gaucho she met at an equestrian event. She has two daughters: Maria Teresa and Rebecca, Charles responded as he offered the drink to his friend, who drank it avidly and almost immediately extended the glass to be served another.

Charles responded automatically, pouring another double.

Rose is probably in the kitchen, Charles continued. Although we don’t have any children, our marriage couldn’t be more stable, in spite of the terrible condition of the economy and the world in general.

He raised his voice and called out, Rose!

She came in through the kitchen door, drying her hands on her flowered apron.

Look at her, Jack! I can finally introduce you to my wife. I think you already know her from the photographs.

Charles hugged his wife around the waist and steered her toward his friend.

Come here, sweetie. Come on over.

She courteously extended her hand and Jack kissed it.

I’ve heard so much about you that I feel like I know you. Charles and I wrote to each other regularly a long time ago. Jack interrupted himself and sincerely admitted, Honestly, it’s a pleasure to meet you personally. I want you to know that you are even more beautiful than you are in the only picture that I have of you two. Thank God it was taken in front of the house, which helped me to recognize it. Otherwise it wouldn’t have been so easy to find you two.

Thanks for the compliment. Charles has told me a lot about you. I want you to join us for lunch. I’m making shepherd’s pie. You’ll love it.

More than you know! I’m starving!

Well, don’t worry. It’ll be ready in less than a half hour.

Great! both men said at the same time.

After having lunch and drinking two bottles of red wine, the two men continued hugging each other, laughing. The stories started and never ended since they were interrupted by others that they suddenly remembered. Finally, Charles asked, When are you thinking about going back? Where are you staying? Are you married? Are you still working in steel?

No, I’m still not married. After a girl dumped me by leaving me for another man, I decided I wasn’t going to meddle with another woman.

What a shame! Rose exclaimed.

Thank you, but you shouldn’t feel bad. It was the best thing that could’ve happened to me. She didn’t love me the way I thought she did, and it’s better that it happened before we took our vows and not after.

Jack paused for a second, and then responded to the fourth question.

Yes, I’m still working in steel, like always, thank God. I’m thinking about getting back as soon as possible because I’ve been here for three days, and the spectacle of so much devastation isn’t very easy on the eyes.

No way! Charles exclaimed, looking into Rose’s eyes for approval and spontaneously extended the invitation.

You just took a long and expensive trip and you should take advantage of it. Why don’t you stay with us for a while? Where are you staying?

With Anne, my grandmother’s sister, who is also hosting some other relatives that I’ve never seen before, Jack explained. But nothing is impossible, as long as there are friends to extend the invite. Expressing himself more clearly, he made an insinuation, But do you think there’s enough room for me?

Of course, we have enough room for you. Besides, there’s plenty of good food and excellent whiskey! Charles exclaimed as he served up some more glasses, which he split between the three.

To friendship, Charles toasted.

To friendship, Jack and Rose repeated.

The friends enjoyed the flavor of the liquor and looked happily at each other.

Suddenly, Charles interrupted, Why don’t you go before it gets dark and come back tonight with your luggage?

Charles took a look at his watch and since it was only one o’clock, he suggested, It doesn’t matter if you come back late, unless, of course, you prefer to come back early tomorrow since it’s such a hassle to come back today.

Charles looked directly at his wife, hoping for her approval.

In the meantime, Rose will prepare the attic, no problem. Right, dear? Charles said with obvious enthusiasm. Jack looked at Rose who confirmed the invitation with a smile and audible approval. Charles noticed that Jack had finished his whiskey, so he offered him another. Jack declined the drink and stood up to accept the offer for lodging without hesitation.

I’ve always admired you for you excellent ideas. Honestly, you’re a genius.

They both laughed heartily while Rose came forward, offering him his raincoat.

Thank you, Rose. I’m going to head out now and try to come back tonight if there are still trains coming back.

There definitely will be, Rose responded confidently. I have family in London, and I’ve never had problems traveling. You just have to check the schedule. I believe that the last train leaves twenty minutes past midnight and the next one leaves at five in the morning.

I’m a little worried about how my grandmother’s sister will take it, Jack said with a trace of doubt in his voice. She might try to insist that I stay, but with all of the other relatives that she’s taking care of, she might even feel relieved.

You don’t have to tell her you’re coming here. Just tell her you going back to the United States, and you’re good to go.

I told you! You’re full of excellent ideas!

So go and come back and stop wasting time!

Yes! I think I should go now. I’ve got time to go and come back tonight. I’ll see you both in a bit!

Of course, Jack, I’ll have time to prepare a nice dessert for you, Rose offered.

Let me take you to the station, and you’ll be on your way.

Rose accompanied the two men to the front yard and said good-bye to her new friend with a kiss. She continued her good-bye by waving her hand until the old car had driven off with the two friends inside.

Jack Daniels made the trip there and back in a heartbeat. He said good-bye to his great aunt with the respect he owed her, but aware that he may not see her again despite his readiness to stay longer in England. Looking at the landscape from his window, Jack considered the twists of life and plunged into a deep meditation, not only about what was happening to him personally, but also about the serious events that happened at the time in the world in general.

The Great Depression, Pittsburgh, and Its Steel Industry

Jack thought and daydreamed about how different and yet similar Pittsburgh and Liverpool were; especially if you went back as far as the Great Depression, a terribly sad part of the history of the United States of America. The country’s economy suffered a crisis so severe that businesses lost millions of dollars and thousands of people found themselves without work.

It began in October 1929, when the stock market suddenly and steeply dropped, which caused many investors to lose large sums of money and ultimately go into bankruptcy. This situation essentially lasted through the thirties. The impact submerged the nation in an extensive period of unemployment due to the drop in commercial activity. Hundreds of banks, factories, businesses, and shops cancelled their activities and left millions of Americans without work and without income. The government responded by providing monetary support and food to the people. Much like a giant octopus, the tentacles of the Great Depression reached most nations. Importation and exportation of products fell in such a way that each country tried to protect its own industries by raising the customs, valuation, and tax rates. Some decided to change the types of governments they relied upon, as well as their leaders. In America, Herbert Hoover was the sitting president when the crisis struck, but Franklin D. Roosevelt was elected in his place, while Charles de Gaulle in France, Winston Churchill in England, Joseph Stalin in Russia, Adolf Hitler in Germany, and Benito Mussolini in Italy pulled the strings of power.

While experiencing a subsequent economic surge, Japan attributes the reasons for its success to the invasion of China and the steps taken to consolidate industry and mining in Manchuria. The unusual conditions behind the peace treaties from the previous war, the militarism of the Japanese and Germans, manifesting itself as totalitarian regimes, as well as the Italian militarism and the German invasion of Poland without a declaration of war, which violated the peace treaties, were the historical events that led to the Second World War, which began in 1939 and lasted until 1945. The Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor in 1941 ultimately forced American participation in the war; despite the support for the Allied countries, America had never become directly involved. Hitler’s failure in bombing England without conquering it, the defeat of his armed forces, who died from the cold and hunger they were exposed to during the cruel winter in his attempt to subjugate Russia (the same strategic mistake made by Napoleon), the unprecedented destruction of German cities, communication centers, and maritime fleets, the American nuclear attack on and subsequent destruction of Hiroshima and Nagasaki serve as catalysts contributing to the end of the Second World War, which led Hitler to take his own life in 1945. Franklin Roosevelt then implemented the reforms known as The New Deal, which allowed the government to significantly alleviate the economic depression by creating jobs to satisfy the war’s voracious appetite by producing what was necessary to sustain the troops—artillery and ammunition. This reform allowed for an increase in the circulation of large sums of money, thereby gradually improving the economy. Pittsburgh, with its steel foundries, was among the most important cities in the United States during this era.

During those fatal years, the city of Pittsburgh was always sad and dreary. Soot covered the rooftops; its yards and streets gave off the impression of a city constantly in mourning. The cause was neither the winter nor the fall; nor was it the result of the internal combustion of the gas emitted by engines of the automobiles. Instead, it was the dozens of iron and steel factories, the excavation of the mines, and the exploitation of the coal reserves that ran along the river. Even in 1946, when seventy thousand employees of the steel industry declared a strike to demand better salaries, and other manufacturing companies paralyzed another 120 thousand employees because of an additional strike called by the carbon miners, the steel industry continued producing and satisfying the global demand. The constant activity in the blast furnaces and the Bessemer converters produced blackish sediment that covered the city with a veil of longing, darkening the sky with a perennial drizzle that on most days hid the sun’s rays; Fortunately, the Allegheny and Monongahela rivers that pass through the city team up with the bridges that cross over them and the surrounding hills to produce winds that run toward the city center in order to dissipate the harmful contamination. While it appears that there is some truth behind the story, legend says that one of the rivers devoured a DC-4 airplane, which crashed into the river and was never found again, either because it was buried in the depths or because it was taken by the currents to unknown depths.

The employees and laborers at the foundries were responsible for responding to the constant demand for products and to supplying steel and coal to the countries that needed it. Since the employees were receiving better pay at that time, they felt satisfied and took advantage of the opportunity to improve their living conditions and freely enjoy themselves after their long, hard days at work. In general, many of the employees finished work and headed over to One More, an enormous European-style tavern built just off the river. The owner, Maxine Powell, despite her young age and good looks, was a complete professional with her customers, sharing and behaving like a businesswoman. Different types of people, such as laborers, friends, journalists, artists of the moment, and even politicians came together to talk about the events of the day and meet up. But more importantly, they came to enjoy the city’s best prawns, the fried calamari and the enormous Serrano ham and cheese sandwiches, as well as the famous hamburgers and fries. The customers could also enjoy a variety of beers, both bottled and draft, and all types of liquors, such as scotch, gin, vodka, and tequila, among others, while singing Irish and English ditties. Despite the fact that there were political and religious disagreements among the assiduous visitors, they tried not to talk about them because of the pitched battles that had already taken place there.

A Previously Arranged Visit

Without suspecting it, Jack was returning to Liverpool more because of fate than because of an invitation from his friends.

Rose had for a long time heard her husband refer to the good times he’d shared with Jack, who was almost three years older than him. They were totally different people, but they shared a spiritual compatibility. Jack was strong, almost rustic, and his manners and behavior betrayed an almost impertinent manliness. His eyes were blue and his hair was the color of copper. His mouth, although generous, was dominated by an unsatisfied grimace that gave him an enigmatic air. His frankness was innate and his devotion to alcohol was legendary. Charles, on the other hand, had a slim but muscular build and was taller than Jack, which forced him to avoid walking upright. His appearance was juvenile even though he’d started to lose his hair. He had an easy smile and measured gestures, which complemented his dignified and calm attitude. It was definitely his serene attitude that had attracted Rose since her father had been a surly and temperamental man.

Charles and Rose Craig were neighbors and friends of Isabel, Carolyn, and Miles Andrews, who, at night, were in the habit of playing poker with another couple. Miles played with his friends while Isabel and Rose entertained themselves with the wives of the other guests, discussing cooking and politics. Young Carolyn did not participate much in the get-togethers because she dedicated herself to reading magazines in the small adjacent room while the grown-ups, as she called them, chatted about things that were of no interest to her.

The Andrews politely extended the invitation to Jack since he was staying with the Craigs and the get-together had already been planned.

The house of Andrews was antique but elegant, decorated in a Victorian style, with impeccable taste. Everything indicated that Miles’s ancestors were of a certain lineage, which was reflected in his behavior and manners. The hosts seemed pleased to meet Jack, who immediately judged the couple to be a mismatch, since Isabel’s youth shined in comparison to the taciturn appearance of her husband. Through Rose, Jack learned that Andrews was twenty years older than his wife.

Since he was an astute observer, Jack deduced that in the old days, he must have been a strong and good-looking man because of his height and bone structure. But now he is obviously pathetically fragile and thin.

Miles had difficulty in walking and supported himself on a cane as the result of a horseback riding accident he’d suffered years ago. His austere and reserved attitude contrasts obviously with his wife’s almost inexhaustible smile. She shows herself to be tenderly submissive, and she clearly admires her husband. She carries herself with natural elegance, and her polite manners are innate, not taught. Yet she did not show the slightest bit of arrogance, unlike her husband. Isabel has luminous emerald green eyes that highlight the blackness of her hair, which makes her white skin shine like the moon.

She’s so young and beautiful! Jack thought to himself, I can’t believe that a woman so young could be married to an old man and trapped in this house!

Jack discretely observes her and admires the way she moves about the room as if she were floating in and out of the space, leaving behind the soft smell of lavender whenever she came over to serve tea or liquor. She doesn’t look at anyone in the eyes, which indicates her timidity. Jack senses that his presence intimidates her since she always looks away whenever their eyes meet. Despite himself, Jack feels a strange emotion and butterflies in his stomach every time he looks at her.

After introducing Jack to his guests, who were all old friends, Miles invites the group to begin a game of poker. It’s obvious to Jack that Miles is an expert player, which makes him think that this is the reason for the friendship between the two. He’d always suspected that Charles was a serious poker player.

But the night still holds another surprise for Jack, which turns into a fairytale when Carolyn Andrews appears. The young girl comes down the wide stairway and greets everyone naturally as she heads to the place where all of the women are seated. After one of the games is finished, Miles calls upon his daughter and speaks with a certain amount of pride.

Mr. Daniels, this is my daughter Carolyn.

Before Jack can react to his polite gesture, Miles turns back to his daughter and announces, Carolyn, this gentleman is John Daniels, who is visiting us from America and appears to be a very good old friend of Charles and Rose.

The young girl faces Jack and extends her hand enthusiastically.

Mr. Daniels, it is an honor to meet a new friend from your country, all the more so since you are a friend of our dear neighbors. I deeply admire the United States, and I intend to visit one day . . . that is, obviously, if God and my parents see fit to allow me.

It would be a pleasure to have you with us, says Jack.

He takes Carolyn’s hand in his and kisses it, almost without brushing against it. When he looks at her, Jack becomes submerged in the incredible transparency of her blue eyes. If Carolyn notices, she ignores it and continues talking enthusiastically.

Will you be staying with us for a while, Mr. Daniels?

My name is Jack, Carolyn. Please, call me Jack. After a brief pause, he confirms, And yes, it’s possible that I’ll stay a few more days with Charles and Rose.

Before he finishes the sentence, Jack realizes that he’s extended his presence in England much more than he’d planned. Nobody noticed that when Jack affirmed his presence, Isabel spilled the tea on her dress.

Despite her young age, Carolyn made a deep impression on Jack. There was no doubt that her crystalline eyes had captivated him as much as her blonde hair, similar to the golden silk of newly raised corn. He was also aroused by her innocence, which contrasted intensely with the graceful movements with which she carried herself and the sensual femininity that made him feverishly want her.

Maybe since she’s so young, she’s not very cultured, he thought, which didn’t mean that Jack felt superior, but it was clear to see that she didn’t know much about the world and specifically about the United States. Carolyn had few notions about history, which was Jack’s preferred subject. Yet Isabel, during his conversation with her, assured Jack that she knew what she was talking about and that she was intelligent and educated. Regardless, Carolyn had good manners and was quick in her answers, showing interest and curiosity for everything that was being discussed. Although Jack could sense that the family was austere and conservative in the traditional sense, he had an undeniable feeling that Carolyn had not let herself be subjugated by formalities and regulations, which made him, fantasize.

This woman has a fire burning behind her innocence, and I can teach her and make her mine if I decide to. I can’t believe that I could feel such desire at my age. I must find a way to have her before returning to the United States. But how?

As Jack delighted in his plans, Carolyn thought, This man could be the solution to my problems. He’s an interesting man, and I like him. A lot!

She looked at him more closely and asked herself, Will he be good in bed?

Placing her hands together in a gesture of admiration, Carolyn flatteringly exclaims, I’ve always loved America! Americans are so different from the English!

Have you met many? Jack smiled as his vanity allowed him to feel that he was the object of that comment. Before she could reply, he said, I’d be willing to welcome you to America whenever you wish . . . obviously, of course, if God and your parents allow it.

He took special care to use the same phrase as she had.

Everyone at the table celebrated the invitation, except for Michael Ferrell, an old friend of Miles who spoke despotically, without being contradicted by Miles or Isabel.

Carolyn is very young to be traveling . . . her most important responsibility is continuing her studies. Don’t you agree, Miles?

Miles responded by nodding his head while Carolyn petulantly spoke to the man without showing him much respect.

Since you’re so worried and want what’s best for me, Mr. Ferrell, don’t you think I should be able to make decisions about my own life? I just turned seventeen. Right, Dad?

It depends, sweetie, Miles responded, getting up from the table and ending the game with a gesture. Why don’t we have a cognac? Isabel, please bring some glasses and the bottle of Napoleon.

Everyone retired to the adjacent room where they kept talking until the enormous antique clock in the living room rang out, letting them know that it was eleven in the evening.

Miles immediately understands what a good opportunity Jack represented for Carolyn since his health is precarious and their economic situation is still unstable. He discretely excuses himself in order to go to the bathroom and talk alone with his wife. In a hushed voice, he suggests that she, as the lady of the house, invite Jack over again.

If they fall in love, we could settle Carolyn’s future.

And settle a lot of other problems as well, Isabel adds, with a slight emphasis.

You have to realize, Miles continues, that our situation is tricky and our daughter is not easy to moderate . . . she’s capricious and insolent.

He sighs worriedly and keeps talking.

A marriage to an American, maybe even one who’s a little older than her, would be the perfect solution for all of us. Plus, the United States is better than any other country in the world. It might even be an option for us in the future.

He looks at his wife, trying to find the response in her eyes.

Don’t you think so, Isabel? Think it over!

I don’t need to think it over too much, honey. Even though it’s a crazy idea, I think it’s the best one if you are ready to lose her. But you are the one who should invite him over.

Isabel’s eyes become covered with a touch of sadness that Miles doesn’t notice.

I like Jack, and I think it would be a good opportunity for Carolyn. That is, of course, if she’s interested. You already know how she is. I will try to see if it interests her and give her some advice.

You are always the wise one, Isabel, always the wise one, Miles says with a paternal gesture.

I think that this is the best decision for everyone, he adds, frowning as if he were contemplating the idea. Yes, I think you’re right. I will do everything I can so that they get to know each other better, but I hope it’s not too obvious. You try to encourage my daughter to become interested in him. She’s already starting to worry me with some of her attitudes and her ability to sneak out and meet up with her friends. She might give us an unpleasant surprise one of these days. Do you understand what I mean?

Of course, I understand, Miles. But I don’t think you need to worry too much. Carolyn’s behavior tells me that she is sympathetic to Mr. Daniels. I am a woman, even though sometimes it seems like you’ve forgotten that.

Isabel waited for her husband’s reaction, but he ignored the comment.

I believe, Isabel continued, that I am not mistaken.

When he returned to the room, Miles was a little more effusive and when he ended the evening and said good-bye to the group, discretely suggesting that Jack stay behind a minute more to talk with him. When he figured that the guests had all gone out to the front yard, he spoke courteously to Jack.

Why don’t you come have lunch with us tomorrow? I would like to know more about your political positions, and what the unemployment situation in the United States is like. They are the things that we find interesting, and I don’t have many chances to talk with Americans. Even though Charles Craig is one of you, he’s lived in England so long that he already considers himself English. Plus, as you must already know, he doesn’t have many connections in the United States.

In a casual tone, he observed, You are a guest in our country, and the proper thing would be for Carolyn to show you around the city since I’m in no condition to do so and Isabel is not the right person for the job. Liverpool is an industrial city, but it has some interesting points. What’s more, the park in front of our house is beautiful, and it has an extensive lake where it is possible to watch the regional wild ducks and enjoy, if you so desire, a picnic that my daughter would be more than happy to prepare.

Jack happily accepted the offer while the young girl applauded happily without being heard since he was hidden behind the door from where she was listening to the conversation. Ignorant about her parents’ feelings and worries, she didn’t understand the strange and sudden decision to give her so much freedom, especially with a man. She couldn’t wait to get married and get away from home, a desire that all young people feel sooner or later, although she had not planned to go and live so far away from her parents’ home. She was tired of the boredom and the constant pressure from the very married Michael Ferrell, as well as her aversion to the strict rules imposed by ethics and moral codes that suffocated her and made her resent them even more for being so constantly present. Since she didn’t have brothers or sisters, Carolyn had suffered from the extreme vigilance of her parents, and she was bothered by the inquisitive questioning of her mother, who seemed intent upon meddling in her most intimate secrets. She was sure that her mother envied her youth and the possibilities in her life, even though she was still a young woman, although one who was born at a different time and under different circumstances.

The young Andrews girl recognized that he had been able to establish a deep friendship with her mother. Isabel was always ready to do it, but she preferred to avoid her because she was afraid of not being understood and even of being betrayed by her, not maliciously, but because of her ingenuity and insecurity. She was completely unable to take care of problems or take a step forward without first talking to Miles. Carolyn sensed that there wasn’t any intimacy or loving bond between the two as man and wife. Instead, there was a strong friendship and camaraderie.

She was completely convinced of her physical beauty. Even without makeup, her pink lips and smooth, soft cheeks stood out.

I have to win this guy’s heart, she said to herself. At least until he asks me to marry him. And why not? she asked herself. It would be interesting if I could pull it off.

The little girl smiled malevolently, like a cat after it eats the canary. Jack’s manliness provoked her, and she felt a strong interest in him. She suspected that he felt the same way about her. She promised herself that she had to exploit his attraction in order to trap him. Even in the small world in which she lived, she was quick to recognize men’s desires, and she understood at a young age that all of them, regardless of their race or age, wanted the same thing—sex.

If a woman knows how to take advantage of that situation, she can get very far if she puts her mind to it.

The womanly child contemplated her options before she fell asleep.

Carolyn carefully planned the strategy, taking advantage of the strolls with Jack to innocently tempt him through their proximity. She soaked up the shine in his eyes and the way he looked at her.

I’m driving him crazy, she said to herself.

She was sure about the effect she had on him because she could see the protuberance beneath his clothes when he approached her.

It’ll only be a few more days until he is overcome with desire and asks me to wait for and he promises to return, or he asks for my hand in marriage. I have to act quickly and get to the point, she thought to herself.

Because of this, when Jack tried to kiss her or seduce her, Carolyn rejected him softly, apparently flushed, denying him the slightest bit of proximity and thus further stoking his fire.

Goddamn this shrew, Jack thought. Is she made of ice? How can this naughty girl resist me? Sometimes I think I have her in the palm of my hand, and she slips out like a fish. And I thought she was going to be an easy catch. She hasn’t even let me touch her shoulder, or give her a kiss when I drop her off at home.

And that’s how it was. Carolyn didn’t allow any close contact, only offering her hand to say good-bye.

Miles was totally convinced that Jack was interested in his daughter, although he didn’t expect that he was seriously considering the possibility of marriage. He wanted by all means to see his little girl get married because he’d not been feeling well for months, and a marriage between the two could solve quite a few problems, including those of his young wife, who didn’t have anyone else in the world but her older sister, who lived in Belgium. At the very least, after his death, Isabel would be able to travel to the United States and be with Carolyn in order to take care of her and help her find her future.

Isabel thought about the same things, but for different reasons. Her father has been one of Miles’s best friends and legal advisors. Her mother had died of septicemia when she was only eleven years old and her sister was thirteen, and her father died a few years after his wife. Both she and her sister were taken in by an aunt whose brother-in-law was Miles Andrews. Even though Helen was older, Isabel was the one that Miles chose as his bride since Helen was difficult and rebellious. He dedicated himself to educating her and making her happy in his way, but without, in reality, actually loving her. She was only able to understand this many years later. She learned to accept living together with her husband because she admired him and had a sentimental appreciation for him. But still, she did not know love. The relationship with her spouse was harmonious, and since her life was comfortable and pleasant, she got used to her life without hoping for much or ever complaining.

Without wanting, Isabel was envious of Carolyn. Jack had made such an impression on her that her heart accelerated violently, almost suffocating her every time she saw him. She felt strange shivers on her skin, breasts, and belly. A heat and a need that she’d never felt before made her look carefully at her body and think about Jack while her hands delicately stroked her breasts and hips. She got on her knees and prayed because her guilt made her feel bad, and she tried to cool her fervor with sponge baths. But it was not enough to prevent her from feeling anxious and needed. She could only watch the couple from the second-floor window, unseen behind the beaded curtain. She watched them with a languid and enigmatic expression as Jack escorted Carolyn to the door, saying good-bye without the kiss that he’d hoped for and that she was dying for not giving it to him.

The Premeditated Execution of a Plan

Carolyn waited patiently for Wednesday to arrive, because she knew her mother would visit her aunt Helen, as she always did. She also knew that her father, after accompanying her to her aunt’s house, would go to the club to read the newspapers, talk for a few hours with his friends, and discuss the political and global economic situation with them while they enjoyed a few cigars. That night, when she accompanied Jack and the Craigs at the end of the evening, she made a suggestion to Jack as soon as she was alone with him.

Jack, why don’t you come to the house tomorrow at four in the afternoon to have some tea with me and my mother? My father won’t be home, so we would be able to speak freely, don’t you think? You’re leaving soon, and I would like us to have a more personal memory.

Pursing her lips, she fixed the collar on his raincoat and added, I’ll ask my mother to make us her best cookies, all right?

Jack responded without taking his eyes off her mouth, Of course, Carolyn. I’ll be here at four on the dot.

That night, Jack couldn’t sleep as he normally did because he was thinking of the following day.

At the very least, if her mother is in the kitchen, I’ll be able to kiss her and touch her, he thought. She’s so beautiful, and I’m so into her,

Jack repeated, over and over, I want her so bad.

The mix of suspense and lust made him feel a pain in the depths of his being that reached, to his surprise, all the way to his soul.

The next day, during breakfast, after he’d confessed his obsession with Carolyn to Charles and Rose, the two friends advised Jack to remain calm.

You should really think it over, Charles suggested, especially if it’s something serious. Remember that she’s still a young and an impressionable girl.

Plus, Rose continued, without wanting to give off the impression that she was envious or jealous, this Carolyn girl seems forced and superfluous. I confess that I’ve sometimes felt that I don’t like her. What’s more, she seems insolent. More than a few times I’ve been surprised to see her looking at you, and it wasn’t with the eyes of an innocent girl. She watches you like a woman.

Charles was surprised by his wife’s statement and curiously questioned her.

Why do you say that? Are you, maybe, a little jealous, my sweet? he happily pried.

Don’t tell me that you’ve never noticed how she flirts with you. Sometimes I’ve felt a desire to grab her by the hair.

"Calm down, baby. Calm down. It’s probably because she’s so young. I really think that even though what you’re saying is true, she’s not a malicious person.

Well, I’d just like you to understand, my dear, that when you met me, I felt an overwhelmingly phenomenal attraction to you, even though I’m sure that I never demonstrated it to you, and you didn’t even perceive it. The only thing I wanted was to have an opportunity to kiss you and be in a private place alone with you. That doesn’t mean that I did it.

Rose put an expression of disgust on her face, I’ve seen the way this girl looks at you. Her pupils shine. I think I’m able to read her thoughts better than you do.

Charles tried to seem natural. He looked at Jack playfully and tried to explain his wife’s suspicions, I like to see my little kitty cat get jealous, Jack.

But the truth had been that Charles was carefully paying attention to his wife, moving his head in a gesture of incredible satisfaction, but deciding at the same time not to go deeper into the conversation. Rose was right. Of course, he’d perceived much more than his wife had caught. But since Charles was neither stupid nor petulant, he preferred to go off on a tangent and not fuel the fires of jealousy. He ignored his wife’s intelligent observation and continued, The strange thing is that Isabel has tried to inculcate her with her dignity and moral ethics, in addition to trying to teach her the proper guiding principles. Still, Charles continued in a measured tone, the girl is obviously different from her extraordinary mother. That one is definitely a woman! A real firecracker!

Nobody noticed the sparkle of admiration that reflected in Charles’s pupils when he referred to Isabel. He continued speaking in a measured tone,

Isabel is stupendous. She is a grade A woman. It’s not that Carolyn misbehaves or anything, Charles discretely defended the young girl, but I’ve always had the impression that beneath her angelic beauty there is a naturally savage soul. Isabel, on the other hand, is a dignified lady who is also extremely careful. I have thought of her as a real woman my whole life because if you look at her, you can see that she really is beautiful.

I had no idea about this admiration that you feel for her, Rose said questioningly, with a slight disdain in her voice. It turns out we’ve got two dangerous women as neighbors!

Sometimes it’s best to leave to Allah what belongs to Allah, Charles murmured softly, and then continued proclaiming, Sometimes I ask myself what kind of a life Isabel had with Miles. He’s such a sullen and dry man.

All right, enough, Rose blurted out.

Charles calmly continued, ignoring his wife. Rose tried to be her friend, and despite the fact that they are, Isabel maintains a monkish reserve. She never says anything about her private life. But from what she does say and the way she behaves, she seems happy. Charles sighed, The poor thing. Even though she appears to be happy, I am convinced that she has an emotionally sterile life.

Jack paid close attention to everything that was being said, without putting too much stock in what Rose said, since he considered it to be untrue; it wasn’t out of malice, but expressed with the obvious jealousy of a woman who is competing.

Without any doubt, Isabel is a woman with a unique beauty. She is so enigmatic that she gives off the impression that nothing exists beneath her smile. Carolyn is as opposite as the sun is to the moon, Jack explained. I feel like she is impetuous and takes risks not just because of her young age, but also because of the difficult years she has been through. Since she is so young, I would be able to teach her and mold her according to my needs and wants. She’s made me excited in a way nobody else had, and I really find her interesting.

Even if it turns out that she’s a savage filly? Rose asked with sincere curiosity. I would love to understand the male psyche, or rather, the opinion of your penises.

Regardless, Jack assured, with measured intent but also smiling at what Rose had said.

But have you really fallen for her, Jack? Charles asked in disbelief and repressed enthusiasm. Maybe you just like her.

It’s possible. But ever since I met her, I haven’t stopped thinking about her for a single second. She’s got me totally intoxicated!

Jack, don’t confuse love with lust, Charles advised. If you’re sure that you really want something serious, be careful.

Sexual obsession has destroyed many men and many lives, Rose flatly stated.

She sighed and started to take the plates off the table. She then went to the kitchen, singing softly, Love blinds us and binds us in its white ribbons, which can later become chains.

As soon as Rose left the dining room, Jack quietly confessed to Charles.

I’m seriously thinking about making her my wife. It seems like the only way to get her.

Have you tried to have your way with her?

I think it would be easier to have your way with a bull, Jack declared, with a tense expression on his face.

Charles didn’t say a word since he didn’t know what to say. But there was a doubt beating around in his head—if he should intervene or allow fate to take its course.

A bull? Charles asked himself. More like a cat in heat. I have so much to tell you, my dear, Jack. That little kitty cat could’ve been mine with the snap of my fingers. And my astute little Rose always knew.

Charles smiled to himself since he knew a little more about women. The little tramp, though she didn’t have me understand until now.

Jack’s enthusiasm and anticipation convinced Charles and Rose not to intervene too much, especially after they heard Jack whistling happily in the attic.

Jack is a grown boy, they said to each other. "And who knows? At least they’re happy! There is no greater blindness than that of a man who doesn’t want to see, nor a worse deafness than that of the man who