The Girl Who Cried Wolf

By Ruben Vasquez

About the Book
In the foothills of The Adirondacks, a terrible evil is growing. Long buried in secrecy and The Mists of Time, a long dormant war between mortal enemies is sparked back to life when a girl unwittingly stumbles into it.
When Taina Sierra leaves Manhattan for upstate New York, she had no idea that it would come with a steep price.
Her only assets for survival: Silverado, Bullet and Gunn, her three, large German Shepherds—and they will do anything for her--- even die for her.
The Girl Who Cried Wolf is a taut well-written tale of suspense. The setting of the story, the vivid characters, and the detailed dialogue make it a fun read thriller novel. As the characters develop and the plot thickens, the reader will be on the edge of their seat waiting to find out what happens. The author’s gory, gruesome details make it a can’t miss horror story!

• Language: English
• Publisher: Dorrance Publishing Company
• Release date: Jun 2, 2023
• ISBN: 9798887295480

Book preview

Prologue

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Dusk settled slowly over the Adirondacks of New York, and far to the east a full moon rose as the gang of undocumented workers began their journey to Romulus. The small town was home to a growing population of immigrants who knew they could find jobs there, food and shelter. Despite the early summer heat, they began the final leg of their journey happy that they were nearly finished, happy that they had avoided the authorities. Happy that all they had to do now was avoid the local police, and the darkness that would soon envelope them.

There were a dozen of them; eight men and four women; two of them teenagers. They were from Mexico and Ecuador, except for Jose; no one quite knew where he was from, but they guessed from El Salvador. He was slight of build and in his late twenties, and he kept a tight leash on the girls; they were not allowed to talk with the others and if they did he threatened them. He’d told the others that one was his girlfriend; and the other her cousin, and he was taking them home to relatives; this they thought to be a lie, but that was all he’d say on the matter.

At forty, Javier was the oldest of the group. He was eager to get a new job and wire money home. The money he’d send would be more than a godsend, it would be life itself.

He calculated how much money he could earn, and send home; of course, he would have to keep enough to support himself. Working in the construction job he’d been promised, he could earn enough money in a year to—he could barely think it—return to Mexico; it had been a long hard year working in dirty, sometimes illegal construction projects, where many times he was underpaid if at all. Yet he kept reminding himself that he was now in New York, where there were plenty of jobs and job opportunities.

He followed Jose with the girls up a hillside then to a paved road, where they crossed to the other side. Carefully, they hugged it as they looked back and forth for local police or state troopers, lest they be stopped and searched and generally given a hard time. Worse were the increasingly resentful local black men in their cars, who almost always cursed them or robbed them; sometimes with hatred in their eyes—or smiles on their faces—they fired off guns at them.

Suddenly he stopped Jose.

The police, he said, and pointed ahead to a police car hidden inside a stand of trees.

I bet they’re waiting for us, said one of the men in Spanish.

There’s nothing to be afraid of, Jose said.

Maybe not, continued the man. But they can give us a hard time… he paused to look at the two young girls. Take us all in.

Javier looked at them; even in the fading light he could see how young and pretty they were, how quiet and reserved. He indicated them. They’ll take them away, he warned.

 So we wait, said one of the Ecuadorian women.

I can’t wait, Jose protested and took the girls by their arms. He looked across the road and the wood that stretched into the Adirondacks; somewhere inside that patchwork of state, local and federal lands, lay Romulus. If he could cut across the woods that lay in between, they could be in town in an hour; he didn’t want to risk going alone with just the two of them though and suggested where they could cut across the woods even though night was about to fall.

The others heard him and thought he was crazy. Javier stared at the police car knowing it wasn’t going anywhere for a while, and like Jose he too was anxious to leave. Twilight made him uneasy, and the uneasiness made him want to keep moving no matter what.

I don’t want to stay here either, he said at last.

Good then let’s go, Jose ordered. I know a way through the woods.

You’re both crazy, said one of the men in Spanish.

It’s too risky, said another. There are wolves in there. He paused to listen. Don’t you hear them?

You’ll only get lost, the woman warned. The wolves will have you for dinner.

Nonsense, Jose said. He showed Javier a small flashlight and pointed at the sky in the east and the full moon. Look, it’s a clear night to walk in. In an hour or so we’ll be indoors, while these cowards will still be here.

What about the Ecuadorians from last year? said the second woman. Waiting everyone looked at her. A man and woman disappeared from here not all that far away, she added.

Jose scoffed. How you know something like that if you wasn’t even here last year? he said accusingly. Anyway I don’t remember anything like that. Besides you know how it is they could have gone elsewhere. People come and go around here all the time like with most of you.

That may be so, said the woman staring at him. But they were never seen again.

Then… Jose tried to remain calm. They returned to Ecuador or something who cares.

I care, Javier said. Besides she’s right I’ve heard of people disappearing in these parts before, especially women. And if they’re young and pretty… he paused and looked at the two girls. Again he saw how young and uncertain they appeared.

So…they ran away or something and never came back it wouldn’t be the first time, Jose insisted. He looked at the driver and ordered, Stay here until it’s clear and follow the back-road to town. Then taking the girls by their arms, he led them towards the woods.

Javier hesitated and looked at the others, but he could see they were determined to stay put. He looked at the police car far down the road and it too looked determined to stay put, to make life difficult for dark-haired immigrants who worked hard and minded their own business. Finally he called out to them and joining them on the far side, they left the others behind.

They’ll be telling stories of your disappearance too, one of them cried.

But the small group ignored them and continued onward and into the woods.

As the road disappeared behind them, Jose continued leading them onward. They had gone about a hundred yards or so when they climbed a tall wooded hill. There they paused to look back at the road, but it was no longer visible, or the people they left behind.

Now walking on an old fire road that Jose was familiar with, all they had to do now was cross to an old logging road that was nearby, and they’d be more than halfway home.

When they reached it and followed it past a low rise surrounded by a large cluster of rocks, their doubts of going into the woods began to ease. Pleased with himself that in an hour or so they’d be in Romulus, Jose made no attempt to lower his voice; he knew the thick woods on either side of them would smother their sounds; and ahead they had a good enough view of the road lit by the full moon and as they reached higher ground, the lights of Romulus.

But at night the road seemed longer than he had remembered, with long dips and wide undulating turns. A while later they came to a bend that sloped far downward and deep into the woods. As they seemed to crowd round him, he began to feel uneasy and picked up his speed. Finally they opened up and he relaxed.

Suddenly the long loud cry of a wolf howling from nearby pierced the silence. A moment later as if answering from the opposite direction, came another howl. Fearing now that they were not alone, Jose quickened his pace. The others followed behind nervously.

When there was yet another howl, Jose stopped to pull out a knife. That was too close for me, he said holding it; then continued onward.

The night had become unusually quiet.

As they walked on, Jose looked back and forth repeatedly. Noticing, Javier could take it no more.

Enough already you’re making me nervous, he complained; yet he himself had heard odd noises in the woods that he didn’t like and which he tried to ignore; first to one side, then the other. The wolf howls were long since gone and replaced by an odd, strange silence that he’d never experienced before; and yet there it was again that strange sound coming from somewhere inside the woods. Like padded feet tapped slowly across the ground.

Finally he relaxed when they crested a tall hill and he saw the lights of Romulus ahead.

Jose was hotheaded and quick to fight. But one thing about him was true: he did not imagine things. Yet now he was sure that something was out there watching and following them.

And now he could smell it too.

So had the girls. At first it was coming from the side then from ahead, and finally from all around them. Jose stole a look back at Javier, but he didn’t seem any calmer.

When he saw Jose look into the woods, he looked back for himself but saw nothing; scattered moonlight filtered down through the trees, and it was difficult to see anything except large black velvety shadows. Several times he thought he saw one of them moving and stared. But that ended when from another direction, he heard the soft tapping sound he’d heard earlier.

And then he caught the smell of something truly awful, and which he knew the others had already picked up. It was so foul and odorous it reminded him of cat’s urine and his own sweat when he hadn’t bathed in days. He knew it wasn’t his own and resisting the urge to panic, he told Jose to quicken his pace. He followed close behind with the girls.

Then turning suddenly to look back through the trees, he thought he saw something large and black pass through them, then watched it flit silently in and out of the moonlight. He told himself that it was an animal and nothing more, but the way it moved he knew that was a lie.

Not waiting to see if it was, he pushed the girls and Jose toward the road, desperate for it to end and to see the wide-open land ahead, and the lights of Romulus beyond. Suddenly he fell against the girls and Jose when they all stopped moving. He wondered why.

Don’t stop, he cried. Keep moving!

But no one did, Jose holding their ground. There’s something on the road in front of us, he warned, and pointed the flashlight into the moonlit darkness.

Again Javier smelled it, and now the foul odor of death. He peered over their shoulders at the road ahead. It was difficult to see, but he could just make out the impression of something large and black and sitting in the moonlight in the middle of the road as if waiting for them. His first thought was that it was a bear or large wolf. Yet it was so silent that he wondered what it was doing there, and it terrified him.

Then it began to rise quietly from the ground on two hind legs. Now Javier knew about animals, especially bears and wolves, and whatever this was it was neither; and he wanted no part of it. It raised its head and came toward them with glowing eyes, and they began to back up.

Suddenly a low growl filled the air behind them and they realized they were surrounded. In terror and panic the small group fled into the woods. Jose led the way with the flashlight and as they ran, they were certain they were being chased. Coming toward the shadows, he thought he heard something panting and growing excited as it quickly drew near.

When he heard a pounding in the brush he turned to look, hit his foot on a rock, and fell to the ground with the others behind him. Javier rose quickly and helped them to their feet then out of the darkness, something came leaping through the shadows with large gnashing teeth.

And a snarl that froze everyone.

Javier felt the impact of the blow and then Jose as they fell away from the girls. He raised his knife to fend off something on top of him with hot foul breath and that was going for his throat when a set of powerful jaws caught his hand biting him and causing him to drop the knife. Javier saw it fall to the ground and picked it up then with a hard stabbing motion, jumped atop its back.

Jose crawled on the ground and did not stop moving back until he found a rock to cower behind. Chancing a look back, he saw the girls clinging to each other too terrified to move as they screamed for their lives. But not Javier as he turned for them and before he could reach them, he was knocked back to the ground by a second creature and pinned.

Jose saw Javier fight for his life, but it was over in seconds as one of them went for his throat crushing it. Leaving behind his dying, quivering body, they approached the girls as they clung to each other and screamed for Jose. He watched as one was grabbed by the neck and pulled away, and then the other. Still screaming they were dragged away by the creatures.

As they disappeared into the warm sultry night, Jose finally managed to run away, their screams the last thing he would hear from them.

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Chapter One

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Taina Sierra had no patience for life, but she sure loved living it; and when she sensed her boyfriend behind her she put her schoolbook down on the park bench she was sitting on and standing, turned just in time to surprise him before he could sneak up on her.

He smiled with awe. You keep doing that, he observed. How?

Never mind how Federico when you make me come here to wait for you I don’t expect to be waiting all day doing my homework before you decide to come, Taina said pointedly. She took off her sunglasses and looked at him annoyed. What took you so long?

He jumped over the park bench and embraced her warmly. He smiled again. No really, how you do that?

Rico…? Still annoyed, she pulled away from him.

Alright I’m late, he said and pulled her to him anyway, savoring the way she felt, the way she smelled. He kissed her neck, and her ear. You’re not angry with me are you?

Taina loved him, with every bone in her body.

Would it matter if I was? she inquired. She was delighted to see him though and looked into his dark piercing eyes.

He grinned. I knew you couldn’t be mad at me, he teased. "No woman can resist me."

They sat down and embraced each other warmly kissing passionately, oblivious to the crowds that flocked to Central Park for a late lunch. Or to escape the noise and traffic outside or be with their lovers. Suddenly Taina pulled away and stood up, then took a step back.

Federico paused to look at her as he always did, relishing her great classic beauty. He loved her dark sultry looks; her long dark hair and long legs; and though dressed in blue jeans and white shirt knotted at the stomach revealing it, he couldn’t help but marvel as he always did at how utterly naked she always looked. She was so beautiful it hurt just to look at her.

Looking around she took another step back, and into the sunlight.

Then Federico saw what most captivated him; her luminous Caribbean green eyes. Large yet sleek, he swore they could see deep into his soul. Gaze into a future that only she could see.

He stood and approached her. Taina what is it?

I don’t know…too many people. She looked around. Let’s sit somewhere else.

"But this is our bench, Federico reminded her. We always sit here."

Taina looked at him. "Not lately we haven’t."

Federico thought he understood. Taina its summer and I have to work now.

Too much if you ask me, she observed. She looked at him again.

True I’ve been working a lot, but for good reason, he explained.

Taina knew he was right and taking his hand, she led him to the pond nearby. They held hands as they walked around it enjoying the swans and the still waters.

So, Federico said turning to her. You going to tell me why you’re so…quiet today?

Not so quiet, Taina stated. She paused to reconsider. Maybe you’re right, especially with this feeling I’ve had lately…

What feeling…? Federico inquired.

I don’t know, something…

Federico eyed her. "Just maybe…you don’t love me anymore, he teased. Taina gave him a look that warned him not to say that again. But Federico wasn’t through.  It’s been said before that a love like ours intense…passionate. Tempestuous— He stopped to let that word sink in. Taina you know achy…end-of-the-world stuff."

Taina was patient.

And?

That it burns itself out rather quickly, he answered. Especially when one is still so young. He indicated himself, then her. Like we are.

Federico we may be only…eighteen, she observed with a nod; she became thoughtful. Anyway I am and you’re still not, but we’re definitely not…young.

Not so young then, he agreed. He pointed at her: But just remember I’m bigger and stronger than you are. He paused. And when I turn eighteen— He stopped when he decided there was no point to finishing his thought. Anyway that’s what I heard like it was ever funny or something.

Taina loved everything about him; his looks, his hair. His passion. Especially his humor. True, sometimes he went a little too far with her; but she always made up for it by going a little too far with him with her own. She paused to smile gently. That’s not it either, she added.

She touched him.

I love you. Federico I will always love you.

Federico believed her of course, but he was still curious. So why the look on your face?

She turned toward the pond again and saw a pair of swans swim into view and stared at them. How white they looked, she thought; how peaceful, innocent and pure, with not a care in the world except to eat, sleep, and fly. She herself wished she could fly; and sometimes far away too, but not away from Federico or the city, for she loved them both too much.

Maybe it was just school and the way it has me feeling lately, she finally admitted.

So what else is new? Federico said. Waiting, he looked at her. Taina that’s it?

No that wasn’t it, she thought, and looked away.

Taina…?

She turned back. Federico it’s a big waste of time for me.

So what you’re saying you want to quit? he inquired.

But what’s the point going anymore? she protested. I keep failing.

I know but this time it’ll get better I promise. Federico’s tone was soft but insistent. I know how you feel about school like me, but that’s no reason to quit now.

She raised a narrow, high-pointed eyebrow and reminded him. You almost did.

But that was so last year, he now reminded her. And this year it’s our last, so there’s no point quitting now. He chuckled. "That is after you finish summer school."

Right, summer school, Taina repeated. God, who goes these days anyway?

You mean besides you? Federico teased. He saw she wasn’t amused. Taina it’s only bad if you let it get to you.

I keep cutting classes so I guess it has, she retorted dryly.

Federico shrugged. So what—everybody cuts?

But that’s easy for you to say Federico— She leaned toward him slightly in that way she often did when making a point—"Especially when you’re the one not in summer school."

Smiling, he gently cupped her face with his hands and teased a little more. But that’s because for once—I, Federico Santiago—somehow did all my schoolwork and you didn’t.

Somehow…? she repeated. You mean by cheating you bastard. She grinned.

He put his arm around her. Come on it’s the last you’ll have to attend I promise. He saw by the look on her face that she wasn’t buying it. Besides they pass everyone.

They better pass me soon, she warned. She felt the book in her arms and couldn’t believe they were having this conversation again. I cut school just to see you because I don’t anymore, she added shaking her face at him.

Is that what this is about that you miss me? Federico asked; he knew not being together with her as much as she liked wasn’t the real reason why she was acting this way. Taina just did not like school or being contained inside one. Forces of nature never quite did.

Federico if my mom knew that I cut school just to see you she’d take me to school herself, she warned.

You know that’s not a bad idea, Federico suggested knowing from the look in her eye she wasn’t going to buy that one either. "Especially if it gets you to stay in school."

Taina gave him a hard look. You think so, eh? She paused. Did you know Federico, that my father thinks you’re to blame for my not going…and for getting left back last year?

Relax they’re not going to know, Federico sad confidently. Besides your dad loves me—your mom. He put his arm warmly around her. So you go and finish up. If that doesn’t work don’t worry you can still graduate and go on your way like everyone else.

Taina tried not to smile but couldn’t help herself when Federico continued innocently.

How else to push students into the world before they’re ready?

Taina pouted. Boy you’d think I would by now, she muttered. She laughed softly. I’ve repeated enough classes that’s for sure—and one full year.

Which might turn into two if you’re not careful, Federico warned.

Not if I can help it— She stopped when she realized there was no point to her protest.

 Taina look at it this way, Federico continued. You can always teach a few classes yourself. He laughed.

Taina smiled. Laugh all you want Federico, but I won’t be seeing you as much or lately, not with that— her eyes flashed —fucking car you spend more time with than with me.

You…jealous of a car? Surprised, he looked back curiously. Since when?

Since you spend more time with it than with—Again she stopped and crossed her arms with her book. Anyway why do you need a car for we live in Manhattan.

Thank God for that, he answered. But I also have to work…in the South Bronx.

Again, he looked at her curiously. Taina barely complained about anything, and now did increasingly. Lately it had begun to bother him in a way he couldn’t explain. But whatever the reasons were just then he didn’t care and smiling, he moved forward and very slowly slid his hands down her arms to her bare waist and pulled her tightly to him.

I love you so much it hurts. He kissed her. When I don’t see you it hurts.

Turned on by his passion and hot breath she moved her face along his until their lips met. They paused to sit by a tree where they resumed kissing. By the time they stopped they were so thirsty they had to run to the water fountain for a drink. Far to the west the sun was falling, and a suddenly strong breeze rustled the branches above them. She snuggled closer to him.

I wish we could stay here forever, she said wistfully. I love this park.

—Hey, our park, Federico reminded her. But if I keep you out too long your father will let me have it again, and I don’t exactly like it when a police officer is talking to me about his still young and… he looked at her cleavage, voluptuous daughter. And his only child.

I’m not a child, Taina pointed out. She smiled. Besides my dad likes you, remember? He just doesn’t like it when he comes home late and doesn’t see me anymore.

Taina like you said you’re not a child, he reminded her now. You’re eighteen and going on twenty-one. We don’t have to explain anything to anyone…even to your father.

Taina grinned patiently. You think he cares about that?

No of course not,’’ Federico said; he looked at her seriously. And we won’t tell him where we’re going tomorrow, lest he comes after me with his gun…and he has lots of them."

Taina smiled gently. Federico he wouldn’t use one on you he likes you, remember? She became serious. But he’d used that baseball bat you keep inside your car.

Hey, I need that, Federico said smiling; he shrugged. You know just in case.

Just in case…what, she inquired. Break a few more…knees?

I’ve only broken…one, he answered innocently.

She eyed him. Then what about the big hunting knife in the car?

Just in case I go hunting…in the woods. He saw the look she gave him. It’s possible.

I doubt that since you never leave the city, she reminded him. She saw a woman with three dogs and was reminded of her own. Speaking of guns, knives and baseball bats—

Federico didn’t let her finish. I know weapons of mass destruction, three overgrown ones in particular. He looked at his watch. I better get you to them or your father will blame me again. Last time it was because you didn’t walk them and so when I did, he blamed me anyway. He still won’t let me forget it.

Taina pushed him away playfully. But that’s because you lost one of them.

But I had to, Federico explained innocently. Especially after you know…and he seemed to have guessed something because he kept looking at me suspiciously, as if wondering where we’d been all day…and what we’d been doing.

"It was our first time," Taina reminded him gently.

Federico smiled. "How can I ever forget? he now reminded her. He was really pissed off I felt I had to do something—you know that maybe I had my way with his beautiful but definitely not-so-naïve daughter even if she is older than me."

Federico much—much older, believe me, Taina reminded him teasing.

So I figured if I lost one of them on purpose… He smiled again. It worked like a charm. Pleased with himself, he laughed some more. What better way to change his mind than losing a very valuable puppy and then have to go out and into the night to find him.

Taina was serious. It’s a good thing too that we did or he would have killed you.

Yeah I know except that I knew where Bullet was…in the park. Just like you did, he reminded her. Thankfully your father didn’t. So when I found him he was so relieved he forgot to talk to me about you and never even realized it. Still proud of himself, Federico laughed.

Taina relished her grin. And with Federico laughed some more.

Once out of the park he said, Taina I love them you know I do, but why does your father insist that you walk them especially at night they’re just dogs? He paused to reconsider. All right so they’re kind of big. Very big…  again he paused. Too big if you ask me.

They’re not just…dogs, she was only too happy to explain. They’re special—Federico very special. Besides he’s a cop and always working.

You mean when he isn’t drinking, he added; she punched him playfully on the arm. He’s the one that brought them home, Federico reminded her. He looked at her again, and then her cleavage. Taina you’re a woman not a kid. Maybe he should stop treating you like one and start walking them himself…especially after he stole them.

He rescued them, she gently reminded him. Anyway they’re my dogs I’ll walk them myself. Besides he feels a lot better when he knows they’re with me then I can’t get into trouble especially when I’m with you…Or lately with India, and you know what he thinks of her.

I know what he thinks of your cousin now…and what she does for a living, Federico said. But you don’t do things to get in trouble except for when you don’t go to school.

Taina lowered her eyes. That’s not quite true, she said, and raised them.

Perhaps, Federico said. But when you’re not fighting with me or with your parents, or with someone from school. Or you don’t go and then you look for a fight—

Taina stared at him. Federico I don‘t fight.

No maybe not, but then you don’t exactly avoid… he paused when he saw her staring at him. But then what do I know I’m just the boyfriend except for the fact that, he chose his words carefully, Taina you’re like this intelligent, yet unpredictable princess who tries to avoid school when you’re easily the smartest girl there.

Surprised, she made a small face. And not the most beautiful?

He looked at her full lips and wanted to kiss them. But Tai that goes without saying— He stopped, then did.

She pulled away from him playfully. But I like when you say it. She pointed a long red fingernail at him. But only you Mr. Santiago.

Then… he paused and leaned toward her obligingly, "You’re easily the most beautiful looking thing that’s ever walked the face of the earth," he announced, and walked her to his car.

Downtown on the Lower East Side where they both lived, she reached over and kissed him twice on the lips to say goodbye. She opened her door. Halfway out she smiled.

Oh look, she exclaimed, A full moon. She nodded toward the Williamsburg Bridge a half dozen blocks away, and the darkening sky beyond.

She looked at Federico.

"How romantic."

•••

Walking up the steps of her building, Taina wondered what had the dogs so excited that she could hear their loud barking, and even an occasional howl all the way up the fifth floor where she lived alone with her parents. When she reached the third landing, she passed on the way down two men in plainclothes and whom she quickly pegged as cops; probably colleagues of her father, she thought; then nothing more of them, and continued up the stairs.

The dogs had stopped their loud noisemaking, but she could hear them gathering on the other side of the door as she approached and pushed it open. Immediately she was engulfed in a whirlwind of love, energy and brute strength as three huge jet-black German shepherds swirled and jumped around her excitedly.

"Guys, she said to them, then took a moment to pet and greet each one. She lingered on Silverado, then pushed past his brothers to the kitchen. There she dropped her book on the table and looked around, and into the empty living room. She wondered where her mother was and opened the refrigerator door for a drink. As she drank cold milk she saw them waiting for her by the front door. Gulping and breathing at the same time she said, You guys always have to go out like girls. She started for the bathroom. I have to go first."

Where have you been?

Taina stopped. She turned and saw her mother. Isis came out of her bedroom and gently closed the door behind her. She didn’t look too happy.

I know I’m late, but we have time, Taina said. She started for the bathroom again.

We’re not going.

Surprised, Taina stopped. But why? Then with disappointment. But it’s a midnight showing of that movie we wanted to see, even dad.

I don’t care about that now. Isis blocked her way gently and lowered her voice. Taina you were supposed to be here hours ago.

I was with Federico.

I know you was with Federico, she said patiently. So what else is new?

It’s still early, Taina pointed out. She saw the dogs by the front door. They can wait.

Just now I don’t care about them either, Isis said looking at them.

Taina grew curious. What then?

Your father… Isis paused for a breath.

Suddenly Taina was fearful. What about him? She looked at the bedroom door. Mom who were those men who were here? Then back at her seriously. Is dad alright?

And Isis back at her uncertainly. He’s…in the bedroom.

I know he’s in the bedroom, Taina observed matter-of-factly. But is he alright?

Now Isis stared. He’s…fine.

Good then, Taina said relaxing. She looked at her mother again. So what’s up, then? You look so worried. She gave a small shake to her face. I’ve been late before. In fact all the time, and you never say anything… she paused when she saw Isis staring at her. What?

I guess you didn’t hear about it then.

Hear what? Taina was dying to go to the bathroom.

Your father… Isis paused again. He was involved in a police shooting.

Taina’s mouth dropped open. Oh my God.

He’s fine, Isis quickly informed her.

So what happened? But Taina was still fearful; no one had to tell her how dangerous it was for her father working in the anti-crime unit in the police department of New York City.

Isis lowered her voice to an urgent tone. He shot and killed a young man today. Then raised it. It was a buy-and-bust operation gone badly—the guy went for his gun.

Taina’s mouth flew open in shock. Is Dad alright? She started for him in the bedroom.

Wait. Isis held her gently by the arm. There’s something else I have to tell you.

I have to see him first. She pushed gently past her and went to see her father.

Don’t forget the dogs, Isis muttered already dreading their next conversation.

A few minutes later Taina emerged from the bedroom looking sad and confused.

Isis approached her. Did he talk to you?

A little, Taina said glumly. Mom he’s just sitting there by the window staring at the moon all by himself.

I know he feels awful, Isis agreed. But he’ll be alright you’ll see.

What’s going to happen now? Taina wondered; she looked at her. Is he in trouble?

Isis looked back seriously. There’ll be a police hearing, she explained. They always have them whenever there’s a police shooting you know that, she added.

I know but it couldn’t be his fault, Taina insisted. He was just doing his job.

Police are always doing their jobs, Isis reminded her. But when something goes wrong they’re always the first ones blamed.

I don’t care, Taina protested. It couldn’t have been his fault…He’s a good cop.

Surprised, Isis looked at her. You don’t have to tell me. She looked out the window and toward the rising moon.

Taina noticed. What?

They were saying in the news… she paused to turn to her. That he didn’t have to draw his gun…that he may have been drinking.

Oh my God. Taina felt her legs go weak and she sat down.

The dogs all came to her as if aware of the tension in the apartment. Silverado put his chin on her knee, his eyes rolled upward in her direction. Automatically she touched him on the head petting him. His brothers pressed against her eager for attention; she ignored them.

 I better walk them, she said finally. She picked up their leashes. Mom this sucks.

What walking the dogs?

No. Annoyed, Taina pouted. What happened to Dad?

I know, Isis said gently. Things happen…it’s part of the job. He’ll manage through this. She glanced through the window at the moon. Just as we all will and…move on.

Taina cast her a wary glance.

We’ll be alright, her mother added.

Taina sensed that there was more to this than she was being told.

It still sucks.

She grabbed Bullet to leash him; she did the same with Gunn. She merely had to look at Silverado and he came to her automatically; and though with him she didn’t really need to, she used the leash anyway. She held Bullet back and opened the front door as he tried to rush out. Sadly she glanced at her mother, saw her staring at her and against her better judgment, stopped.

What?

Isis went to her and gently straightened out her beautiful long hair. There’s something else we have to discuss but it can wait until you return.

Taina looked at her, searching her eyes. Mom I don’t like this.

Then you’ll like this, she suggested. And picking up that day’s copy of the New York Post, handed it to her. She smiled. For the dogs. And smiled again.

Taina held back her own. Great, she said as they pulled her out the door.

Carefully cleaning her hands at a leaky fire hydrant nearby, she went around the corner to the small park across the street. She looked inside for other dogs then into the shadowy areas of the park, rimmed by trees and benches underneath lampposts. She looked at the young people who in summer went in and out of the park all day, at night giving way to the homeless and the occasional drug-dealer. When she was certain it was empty, she let them off their leashes.

Bullet immediately rushed off and into the far corners of the park as he bounded away to mark territory and explore. Taina knew he wouldn’t go far but because she didn’t trust him like she did his brothers, she followed his shadowy movements as best as she could to make certain he didn’t. They were each so black and so indistinguishable from the night, that unless they were near a lamppost and casting a shadow on the ground or a wall they were virtually impossible to see. She spotted him in one corner of the park by a lamppost near some bushes, and relaxed.

Gunn also bounded away to explore, but he only went halfway before he changed his mind like he always did and stopped to look around. Only Silverado remained close by, as always content to remain by his master’s side.

Taina looked around and saw a few kids by the park benches that she knew and went to say hello. Already they knew of the police shooting, wondered if her father was alright, then didn’t mention it again. She called the dogs together for the short walk home, then stayed a moment as they admired them, touching and petting them; even Bullet loved the attention as he stayed in place long enough to get some. Naturally calm and friendly, they were so well-behaved that she always found herself admiring them as people made a big deal about them. Especially when friends and strangers alike reacted with awe and wonder—and oftentimes fear—at these huge, deep-chested animals. They were so big and so black and so naturally aggressive-looking, that people often stopped dead in their tracks whenever they turned a corner and encountered them unexpectedly. Then they’d catch their breaths, realize they were not savage beasts but well-trained pets and calming down, marvel at their size and great classic beauty.

Around midnight she headed for home. Outside, she ordered them to sit on a low brick wall that rimmed the park. She unleashed them and ordered them to stay put. Every so often, she’d test them to see how long they remained seated until she called them to her one by one. As she backed away, she watched them especially Bullet. When she was by the corner and about to take another step back, they grew restless; Gunn was the first to stand, then Silverado. To her surprise, and his credit, only Bullet remained seated. Circus performers they certainly were not, she mused. She took another step when Bullet had enough of the pointless exercise, and in one long graceful leap jumped off the wall and ran towards her. Silverado followed; and so did Gunn.

Bullet…no! she cried. As he raced to stay ahead of them, she braced for his arrival knowing that she was too close to the corner and that she had better catch him just in case he flew by and onto the street as he sometimes tended to do. At the last moment she reached out and caught him; then his brothers as they reached her at the same time and jostled her playfully. When she had enough of the manhandling, she leashed them and returned home.

That night Taina’s haphazard but perfectly-ordered world collapsed.

•••

She looked at her mother with disbelief.

What do you mean we’re moving—to upstate New York? She gave her a look that said you got to be kidding me.

Isis gave her a no-nonsense one of her own that said she wasn’t. Yes we are, she said firmly; and then quickly explained: Your father decided to take an early retirement and move upstate. Aunt Mala wants to sell her farmhouse and move to Florida.

Why can’t we move to Florida? Taina suggested half-jokingly even as images of Federico being alone in the city without her filled her already reeling mind with dread.

Only her lips moved.

"South Beach."

You wish, Isis said surprised she was taking this so well. No for us its upstate New York…far upstate. She looked at her. Where you’re father has always wanted to live.

Taina had enough. I don’t want to hear anymore, she said finally, and grabbed her house keys.

Where are you going? Isis inquired.

Out. She paused. I’m going to see Federico.

He’s probably at work already, Isis reminded her. And you’re not going to see him.

 Then I’m going around the corner to see India.

Isis was calm, but firm. No, you are not.

"Mom…"

Taina it’s late, Isis pointed out firmly. And…she’s probably at work too, she added.

Taina stopped, shaken. I need fresh air, she said. I’m going up to the roof then.

Taina…

Mom I don’t care.

Isis shook her head with dismay. Don’t go alone then. Take the dogs.

Taina went to the front door and carefully opened it, letting Silverado out. Then she followed, closing the door on his brothers.

When she reached the rooftop a flight up, she couldn’t believe what she had heard. She was still breathing hard when she turned and leaned back against the parapet. Visible only as an inky black shadow against the tarpaper, Silverado gazed at her in the moonlight.

Don’t look at me like I’m going to talk with you, she said crossly when she noticed. I’m not in the mood. She looked away, then far away. But maybe later I will be, she added muttering. Suddenly, she shook her face at him. Then again—maybe never.

Taina slid down to the floor and waited for him to come to her as he often did and then lay down beside her. When he did she rested her hand on his broad back. Far away to the north, she spotted the Empire State Building glowing brightly in all its glory; and next to it the even more beautiful Chrysler Building. She never tired of looking at them and stared as she slowly calmed down. Finally she noticed the Empire State Building was decked out in red lights and wondered what the occasion was since it wasn’t Valentine’s Day. Suddenly she was angry again.

Yeah right like I’m ever leaving this city, she muttered to herself.

She looked around, and into the night.

Or Federico.

And then taking a deep breath and relaxing, she leaned her head back against the parapet. She sensed a bright light shining down on her from above and looking up, she saw the full moon. She stared at it then blinking, she had the strangest sensation that it was staring back at her and watching her, observing her; that it was waiting to see what she was going to do.

What I’m going to do? she said suddenly angry again. I’m going to… her eyes flashed…fucking sit here and think of a way out of moving upstate with my parents that’s what, and she closed them, then listened to the myriad sounds of the city at night.

And for the very first time in her very young life, Taina Sierra heard every one of them.

Chapter Two

---

August.

Taina Sierra looked around her new neighborhood and shook her head with dismay.

Mom! she began loudly; then stopped when she realized there was no point to her protest. She stepped out of the car and onto the driveway of their new home, sitting on eleven acres somewhere deep in northern upstate New York. She turned to her mother already outside with the dogs, and gently shook her face at her. Aren’t you glad to be in Canada?

Isis looked around. I told you we’re not in Canada. She looked around again. Oh my God we are, she exclaimed, and grinned at her. She looked at the old but somewhat large, two-story farmhouse, with the large wrap-around porch in back and that was once part of a large working farm, and now was to be their new home. She almost wanted to shake her head.

Instead she watched the dogs as they went quickly to explore. As usual Silverado did not go far except to relieve himself at the nearest tree before returning to Taina’s side; his brothers, however, did no such thing. Instead, they bounded down the long driveway and then all the way up to the house sitting high on a gentle rise, where they wound up at a cluster of trees nearby.

Taina watched them. At least they’re happy to be here, she observed dryly. Slowly she looked around. God knows why.

You going to be like that all day? Isis inquired. Because if you are I know where the bus to Canada stops nearby. She shook her face at her. I can always buy you a ticket.

Very funny, Taina said not smiling. She looked around some more. It was a beautiful Saturday afternoon and yet she saw hardly a soul about, and almost no traffic except for one lonely pickup truck that had already passed on the quiet country road just outside their driveway. It’s so quiet and lonely. She turned to her mother pointedly. I don’t like it.          

You’ll get used to it, Isis muttered. We all will. She walked away from the car until she was on the road and looked for her husband somewhere behind in the rental moving truck.

And Federico.

Thinking of him, Taina ignored the house and looked around some more. Across the road beyond an open field edged by weathered fence posts, she saw a farmhouse in the distance; it was the only thing she remembered from her one and only visit here as a child. She noted how old it looked now, and so lonely it saddened her. Way in back through the trees, she could just make out the remains of an old barn and silo; and seeing movement in between two small hills nearby, she realized it was a bright green pickup truck looking like a toy in the distance.

Taina walked back along the driveway to join her mother and saw houses peeking through widely-spaced trees; and here and there clusters of them, then more woods and houses further away. In the opposite direction where they had come from and past more trees that lined both sides of the roadway, she could see farms, woods, and tall hills. Here and there she saw the land slant away into wider, more expansive views then tall rolling hills, and not much else.

Finally, she looked at the house then past it to several wide-open spaces rimmed by a line of old trees, then past these to a thick set of woods that seemed to dip before continuing to higher ground about a half mile away. Beyond, she could just make out the dark gray outlines of low mountains spreading out far to the east, north and west.

Where are we anyway? she said finally; she quickly changed her mind. No I don’t want to know so don’t tell me because I’m not staying here all that long anyway.

Ignoring her, Isis looked down the road. Canada…at the end of the world, she said anyway; then waited for the inevitable roll of the eyes. In the Adirondacks, she added when she didn’t get one. In Romulus—Romulus, New York. You remember you got lost here once?

Just…once? Taina retorted thankfully with disappointment. Thank God for that.

The town itself is only five minutes away, Isis continued cheerily. Less than a mile away…and about two-hundred from the city in case you were wondering.

I wasn’t wondering, Taina said pointedly. I was…thinking, she added still thinking of Federico, and how she was going to convince him to let her go home with him when he returned to the city the next day; then with dismay at that coming disaster, she looked far away.

About an hour west of the Hudson, Isis continued. Amused, she relished her grin. Just north of the Mohawk River, she added; then eyeing her, she waited.

The Mohawk River…? Taina cried. What we’re going to be like the Mohicans now?

More like the last of the Po’ Ricans if you keep that up, warned Isis. Smiling, she glanced back down the road. Just five hours from the city, she repeated teasing.

You mean more like ten hours, Taina complained rubbing her sore buttocks; then annoyed: And if you ask me—west of the Mississippi!

They both looked at each other, realized how ridiculous that sounded, and laughed.

Taina wasn’t really spoiled or self-centered; she was acting this way only because she had promised herself that she wasn’t leaving the city for any reason, or Federico. She was also angry and disappointed with him. Gently, Isis shook her nose at her.

I didn’t ask you.

Taina rubbed herself some more and began to wonder what was taking them so long to arrive. She stepped onto the road. Where are they already?

Relax, Isis suggested. Your father knows the way. She glanced at the house.

And Taina far down the road again.

Maybe they got lost.

They’ll be here, Isis assured her. It’s not that hard to find.

Taina chuckled. Not if they’re smart. She laughed.

At least she hadn’t lost her sense of humor, Isis thought. She hated having moved them out here so quickly; and then from everything they knew and loved. But it had to be done for her husband’s sake after he’d taken an early retirement from the police force leaving his troubles behind; and as long as they were together as a family that’s all that mattered.

And the dogs.

She caught sight of two of them as they explored the grounds; and then thought that she herself couldn’t live out here for too long either and was about to confess this to her daughter when far away she saw the yellow rental moving truck turn into the road. There they are, she said relieved. She turned and shook her face at her again. I told you it wasn’t that hard to find.

"Gee, Taina said matter-of-factly. And to think we found it so easily too."

Isis grinned. That one was good but can you at least tone it down a little when they get here? she suggested. She looked down the road again. Did you see how happy your father was this morning when we left? She could barely see him through the large windshield of the big truck as it approached but pointed out. He looks happier now than ever before.

That’s just great Mom, Taina proclaimed. Now more than ever I’m the unhappy one.

Isis looked at her with surprise. I don’t know why you should be now when you’ve never been before? she reminded her. Especially because we’ve moved.

Taina’s jaw nearly dropped. Isn’t that reason enough?

Isis was still patient as she walked toward the car.

And then to this place, Taina added following from behind. Canada…at the end of the world. She flashed her eyes at her.

Calmly, Isis looked back. Like I said through most of this month—including the long, long drive here—you’ll get over it, she predicted dryly. She pulled out a rare stone idol from the rear of the car and cradling it she walked towards her, then put her arm warmly around her shoulders. "Let’s go inside our house. I’ve got to use the bathroom, and the dogs look thirsty."

Taina looked at the stone idol. But aren’t we going to help unload our stuff?

Isis looked back at the truck. Why? she inquired; then reminded her: We packed them ourselves.

They were heavy, Taina pointed out innocently. Especially that thing in your hands.

"It’s an old stone zemi," Isis reminded her.

"Yes, from the Tainos and which you named me for and keep telling me about, Taina now reminded her, And which they then carried five long flights of steps to the truck below, then with the rest of our things they loaded…inside."

Carefully weighing it in her hands, Isis cradled the stone idol thoughtfully before looking up at her to say, "And which they can then just as easily unload from the truck themselves and carry inside."

Grinning, they both looked at each other and laughed; then signaling for Silverado’s brothers, they watched as they came purposely. Come, Isis said to her daughter as they joined them, then she led her to their new home. A few minutes later she placed the stone artifact down by one side of the front door.

Taina watched her. "You’re not going to leave that there are you?" she inquired.

But why not? Isis said; she looked at her matter-of-factly. "It’s what your ancestors once did to protect their homes from…bad things," she explained. She swung the door open.

Taina stopped. It’s…unlocked, she observed curiously.

I know, Isis agreed. And for as long as we live here that’s how it’ll always be.

Silently, Taina looked back and nodded.

They were led inside by the dogs.

•••

Federico looked around Taina’s bright new bedroom. It’s twice the size of your old bedroom, he observed. The air smells great too, he went to the window, and that view. Curiously he gazed to the far side of the backyard, where old wooden stockade fences wound all the way around to the other side of the house. Wow that’s a lot of fencing, he remarked.

Taina looked at him, then boxes of her stuff.

Federico looked at the woods and rolling hills that led up and into the highlands beyond. In between he saw more rolling, wide-open spaces.

The dogs are going to love it here.

They’re so lucky, Taina said dryly from the walk-in closet as she put away some of her things. As she opened another box, Federico moved silently behind her and took hold of her.

He turned her around and kissed her. You’re still not upset with me are you? His hands went down the curve of her back to her buttocks, and back again. His mouth pressed against her ear. I can’t believe we’re finally alone.

But not for long, Taina seemed to warn. My parents will be back in an hour.

In less time than that I can have my way with you like I always do, Federico said teasing. He grinned and kissed her again.

Federico, please, she protested in a loud whisper and squeezed out of his embrace.

Surprised, he looked at her. Wow you’ve never done that before?

Federico can’t you see I am mad at you, she said; then paused: And disappointed.

Good then, he said. I thought you were just mad at me. He looked out the window again.

Federico look at me, Taina ordered with her hands on her hips. I am mad at you, like never before. She paused to reconsider. Except for when I caught you flirting with that girl from your neighborhood on my eighteenth birthday. She knew that wasn’t the reason why he missed it, but she saw him frown and walk to the window. Don’t walk away from me like you don’t know who I’m talking about that slut from Grand Street.

Federico feigned surprise. You mean…there are other ones?

Taina glared at him.

Federico tried not to notice. I’ll have you know, he continued proudly anyway, that she was flirting with me. He spied his handsome reflection in the dresser mirror and turned to it. I can’t say I blame her. Amused, he quickly added: Taina you’re right—she was a slut. And laughing softly to himself he turned to the mirror for another look.

Taina knew he was just having fun at her expense, especially because lately she’d been taking things too seriously. Still she was so annoyed at his attitude, that she almost considered slapping him in the face so he’d see just how serious this all was to her. Instead, she took a deep breath until she was calm again.

At last Federico became serious as she knew he would and gently touched her face, but she turned away. Wow you really are mad at me.

She almost dropped her jaw and turned back. What you think Federico—of course I am? Again she turned away, then noticed Silverado lying on the bed and pushed him off it. Surprised, he gave her a baleful look then laid down noisily near a corner of the room stacked with luggage and things. Looking at them Taina slowly shook her head.

Federico approached her. Taina you’re not angry with me but at yourself for moving here as your mom insisted and you’re blaming me as if somehow I caused this, he reminded her. But you know not being in the city this year could be good for us if it gets us to stay in school. He tapped his forehead with a finger. You’re just not thinking this out correctly.

But I am Federico, she said still looking away. I’m thinking that here I am living in the middle of nowhere and you don’t seem to give a damn that I am.

Taina of course I do I love you.

Now she turned and looked at him hopefully. Then take me back with you to the city.        

Taina… he said and paused seriously.

She went to him before he could continue. My parents won’t be back for another hour, she said urgently. We can leave before they return. We can take Silverado with us.

In what? Federico reminded her. My car’s back in the city.

Taina had forgotten that he had come in the truck with her father.

There’s the bus you’re taking tomorrow, she suggested. We can be on it tonight.

What about him? Federico indicated Silverado.

Taina looked at him too, then slumped. I…don’t know. She sighed. I’m willing to leave him behind for now just to leave here now.

You— Federico looked at her surprised —leave Silverado behind?

Taina knew she was being ridiculous; she also knew that if she didn’t get out of the house now while she still could she might never leave it. Disappointed, she sat on the bed. Federico joined her and put his arm warmly around her shoulders drawing her close to him.

Look I know what you’re going through,