#sanchezlegacy

Sebastián was panting and sweating when he reached Caroline's house. Yaya opened the door, looking confused and concerned.

"What are you doing here?"

"Where is she?"

"Sebastián, please. You shouldn't be here. If Don Beltran comes home and finds you here, I can't even imagine what he would do." Yamarex's pleas fell on deaf ears as he frantically ran through every room of the house, shouting Caroline's name until he finally found her in the nursery.

"Sebastián, why have you come here?" she asked, her eyes wide with astonishment.

His eyes were fixed on her as she cradled the baby in her arms. "Whose child is that, Caroline?"

"What do you mean?" Caroline asked, laying the baby down in his cradle. "Sebastián, you know whose child this is," she said, trembling.

"Don't lie to me!" He gripped her arm firmly. "I overheard some women talking. Rumors are going around that the child is not Don Beltrans." Am I the father of the child, Caroline?" She didn't answer; she only stared at him with those big, green, terrified eyes. "Answer me, damn it!" he shouted so loud that it startled her, and she finally spoke.

"Stop it, Sebastián, please stop. You're hurting me. He is not your child."

"Don't you dare lie to me! The child came early, and I did the math. I heard what they—"

"Enough! Stop this nonsense. You come here making unfounded accusations based on what? Baseless gossip? It's not uncommon for babies to arrive early. You have no right to come into my house and accost me this way!" she retorted fiercely.

He released his grip on her and spoke more softly. "I implore you, Caroline. Tell me the truth."

"I already told you the truth. You should not have come here. How dare you doubt my word, my honor! Do you think so low of me I would keep this kind of secret? Listen carefully to my words: Listen carefully to my words, HE. IS. NOT. YOUR. CHILD." She spoke slowly and deliberately, stressing each word. At that moment, the baby let out a cry. "It is time for you to leave," she said coldly.

Sebastián tried to speak to her, to apologize, but Caroline would not hear it.

"Out of the love I once bore for you, I won't say a word of this to my husband. Now, please leave and never come back."

Feeling humiliated, he bowed his head in shame and departed. How could he have given a second thought to such petty gossip?

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2/2

Yaya has been a bright spot in Sebastián’s life. She has a unique way of bringing a smile to his face, lifting the weight of his worries, even if just for a moment. Yet, he couldn’t help but think of Caroline from time to time. The vivid image of her face lingered in his mind, casting shadows over his moments of joy. He couldn’t help but wonder how she was faring as a mother and imagine the life they might have shared if only she had chosen to flee with him. Earlier, he may have sought updates on Caroline from Yaya, but as their relationship grew, he realized it was no longer fitting to make such a request

On this particular day, his thoughts were so loud that he could not keep his promise to Father Soledad to stay away from the tavern. When he arrived at the establishment, he settled at the bar and ordered his favorite drink. He didn’t realize that Mr. Beaufort and Don Beltran were sitting at a table nearby.

“I finally have a son! I have an heir to carry on my name,” Don Beltran boasted to anyone who would listen. “Pablo, pour a drink for everyone in my honor,” he ordered the tavern keeper.

Sebastián felt sick. He had come to this place to escape his demons, but they had followed him. After gulping down his drink, he left the premises.

Outside the tavern, two women were chatting. Although they were trying to be discreet, Sebastián overheard their conversation.

“It took three wives for Don Beltran to finally father a child. Looks like the old saying holds true—the third time’s the charm,” one of them said, chuckling.

“I’m not one to gossip, but rumor is that Don Beltran has always been infertile. He’s been married twice before and has had countless affairs, yet he never had a child—it’s something to consider, don’t you think?” the other replied.

“No, but that doesn’t signify.”

“It’s also quite peculiar that the child was born three months early, and one must wonder where those alluring dark eyes came from. Green eyes are something both Don Beltran and his wife have in common,” the second woman noted, prompting a gasp from her companion.

“But, I’m not one to get involved in gossip, so don’t let on that you heard this from me,” she added.

After what he just heard, a whirlwind of thoughts suddenly filled Sebastián’s mind, and the world seemed to spin around him. He thought back to the night he had shared with Caroline. He had vowed not to come near her, but what he had just heard made it impossible to uphold that promise.

1/2

Over in Spain… Sofia celebrated her 13th birthday in a radiant royal blue gown that highlighted her youthful elegance. Alejandro and María watched with pride as their daughter continued to blossom into a beautiful and intelligent young lady. A painting of her likeness was commissioned to commemorate this special occasion, capturing her beauty and grace. Isabel's joy was immeasurable when she received a copy of the portrait and the exciting news that they planned to visit in six months

Isabel and Andrea worked diligently within their tight time constraints, successfully arranging all the details for the wedding. The ceremony took place on a stunning winter afternoon. In the presence of their family and friends, Diego and Andrea exchanged their vows. To begin, Father Soledad officiated the wedding following Catholic customs. Following this, Kasike Hatuey conducted the Caney circle ceremony.

Wrapped in the Conjugal blanket by Isabel and Diego's grandmother, the couple was presented with two small plates, one with turkey and the other with cassava. They took turns feeding each other while reciting the following heartfelt words: "By giving you this token of my love, I vow to feed you with my devotion. I vow to nourish you with the food of my soul from this day on." With these words, the Taino marriage ceremony came to a close.

A small reception followed, and the townspeople celebrated the newlyweds. Antonio delivered a heartfelt speech and raised a toast, which brought tears to Andrea's eyes. She was not only delighted to be united with Carabi but also relieved to leave behind the recent challenges and embark on her new life with her beloved husband.

Diego Carabi Serrano & Andrea Beatriz Sánchez de Serrano’s portrait-Winter 1730

The performers had set up their stage on the grassy verge bordering the bustling town square, drawing an eager crowd when Sebastián, Ángela, Andrés, Ana Lucia, and Yamarex arrived. They managed to secure spots right at the front just as the play—a tale of two buccaneers vying for the love of a woman—began. The performance was a captivating blend of drama, comedy, suspense, and romance, holding the audience spellbound.

Ana Lucia was particularly enchanted. She envisioned herself on stage, singing and dancing with fervor. She was eager to return to her mamá and tell her all about it.

As the play concluded, the crowd erupted into applause and cheers, celebrating the performers who bowed proudly on stage. They lingered afterward, mingling with the audience. Ángela was drawn to one performer, Pierre Fontaine, whose charm sent a flutter through her stomach, her body tingled with a sense of excitement she had never felt before. Her pulse quickened as her palms dampened with sweat. The spark between them was undeniable. He was smitten not only by her beauty but also by her clever remarks and infectious laughter. His hands were shaking just as much as hers, although he tried to appear confident.

The children also found a new friend named Rosalía. Her family had just arrived in town after their home was destroyed by a flood. She was overjoyed to be introduced to them and make new friends, as she had felt lonely since arriving. Ana Lucia invited her to come by the house whenever she wanted to play with them.

"We should begin our journey home as the night draws near, and we still need to take Yaya home," Sebastián said.

"That is unnecessary. I'll be okay getting home," Yamarex replied, not wanting to inconvenience them.

However, Sebastián was adamant. "It is no trouble at all; besides, you shouldn't be traveling alone at this hour."

Pierre said his goodbyes, his eyes lingering on Ángela as he asked if he could see her again. She gladly accepted.

When they got to Yamarex's village, Sebastián was wrapped in her embrace. "Thank you for inviting me. I had the most wonderful time."

"I am glad you joined us, Yaya." He pulled her in closer, and she could feel his breath caressing her neck. Her hair was fragrant with the scent of lavender. Had she always smelled so heavenly? he pondered. As Ángela watched them, she couldn't help but smile. They said their goodbyes to Yamarex and then started their journey back home.

When they returned, Isabel was curious to hear about the adventures they had on their day. Ángela and Sebastián were so absorbed in their thoughts that they didn't even register her words. On the contrary, Ana Lucia was eager to tell everyone what she had seen. She detailed the play thoroughly. When she finally finished, a broad smile spread across her face, and she exclaimed, "I want to be a performer when I grow up."

Once a month, Sebastián and Ángela were tasked with selling Isabel’s baked goods and fruit compotes. As the first rays of sunlight crept over the horizon, they headed to the town square to set up shop. On their way, they ran into Yamarex, who made her way to town every Saturday to sell her handcrafted jewelry. Her pieces, made from vibrant beads and the mesmerizing Larimar stone found in the nearby mountains, always drew a crowd.

The town square was alive with activity. The sound of music mingled with the delicious aromas wafting from the nearby food vendors. One man strummed the fiddle gracefully while another’s voice echoed with heartfelt songs. On their way to enjoy the entertainment, Father Soledad approached them. After hearing the rumors about Sebastián’s recent behavior, he had much to say. His expression showed profound disappointment as he gave Sebastián a piece of his mind. Sebastián stood silently, listening respectfully, before apologizing for his actions.

After selling all the goods, they headed to where the townspeople had gathered to hear the music. Ángela excitedly begged Sebastián to join her in a dance. At first, he was hesitant, but her infectious enthusiasm soon wore down his resistance. He relaxed and began to enjoy himself, laughing more freely and heartily than he had in a long time. Caught up in the moment, he grabbed Yamarex and pulled her into the dance. She was more than pleased to comply, and together, they twirled and swayed to the music, their laughter mingling with the melodies.

After exhausting themselves dancing, they sat on a nearby bench to watch the stars emerge. “Thank you so much for the dance, Yaya. It was a lot of fun,” Sebastián said, his voice filled with genuine gratitude.

“It was a delight, Seb,” she replied warmly.

“Did you know a traveling theater will perform in our town next week? Ángela and Ana Lucia have been pestering me to accompany them to see the performance. Would you care to join us, Yaya?” She gladly accepted the invitation and was excited to spend more time with Sebastián.

“If you’ll permit me, Father Soledad has a point. Your face looks better without that beard.”

“What do you mean? Don’t you think it makes me look dashing?” Sebastián asked, a mischievous smile playing on his lips.

“That’s not what I was implying,” she said apologetically.

“It’s ok, Yaya. I am just teasing,” he said, giving her the warmest smile.

“To me, you always look dashingly handsome,” she said coyly.

That night, Sebastián went home and shaved.

My dearest Mamá,

I am overjoyed that you and Papá are doing so well. I wish I could have been there to witness it firsthand. Please accept my sincere apologies for the lapse in communication. The demands of Alejandro’s duties in the Royal Navy and my commitments at the Hospital de la Santa Creu have kept me engulfed in a whirlwind of activities. Engaging in the noble court’s affairs has been challenging, and I find greater joy in dedicating myself to helping others.

Martín and Sofía inquire about you and Papá frequently, reminiscing about the bedtime tales Papá used to enchant them with. I miss those stories dearly, as they have always brought me immense joy.

Sofía has recently started taking piano lessons, and her progress is remarkable. Apart from this musical pursuit, she also enjoys combining her love for stitching intricate patterns with the enchanting melodies she holds dear. During our leisurely afternoon walks, Sofía’s singing transforms the surroundings, filling the air with a delightful tune that is sure to captivate anyone who hears it. Her natural talent is remarkable, and it’s always a pleasure to listen to her sing.

Martín is quite the chess player; Alejandro has finally encountered a formidable opponent in him. Those two are inseparable. When they are not engaged in a chess game, I can find them riding around the estate. Martín has grown so much in the last few months; his sweet disposition shines through. Alejandro wishes to have him join the Naval Academy soon, just like he did when he came of age. I must confess, the idea doesn’t sit well with me. Despite his growth spurt, he is still so young, and the house will feel so empty without my boy. Am I being overbearing with my caution? I long for your comforting presence, mamá, to guide me in these matters.

As soon as Alejandro completes his royal tasks, we intend to visit. The children eagerly anticipate meeting their cousins, and I cannot wait to come home and embrace you all. Please extend my heartfelt regards to everyone.

With all my love, your daughter,

María Isabel

Magdalena’s heart ached every time she saw Manuel so forlorn. She planned a special afternoon at the beach for them alone. They created magnificent sand sculptures, had fun playing in the sand, and went for a refreshing swim. Manuel’s face beamed with delight, his eyes twinkling with joy. Magdalena was filled with happiness when she saw her son smiling again.

Eventually, she found the perfect moment to sit him down and engage in a heartfelt conversation. “I know I haven’t been able to spend much time with you lately, and I am so sorry for that.” Manuel’s eyes got teary, and he asked, “Is it because you love Santiago better?” Upon hearing this, Magdalena felt her heart breaking. “Your brother still can not care for himself, so we must provide him with the care he needs. We must protect him to ensure his well-being. That doesn’t mean we love you any less. Don’t worry, Mamá and Pápa’s love for you is unshakeable, like a rock.”

“I want to protect him too, Mama, can I?” He asked.

“Of course you can. As the big brother, you must look out for your little brother.”

Santiago gazed up at her with his luminous green eyes. “Yes, Mamá, I will protect him, and I will protect you too.”

“Yes, you will. I love you so much, mi querido niño.” She embraced him tightly, wanting him to feel the warmth of her love. They sat in the water, feeling the gentle waves ripple around them, the sun setting in the distance and the sound of seagulls in the air. They watched the fishing boats drift by before heading home.