The Path by Ariel Tachna

Author:Ariel Tachna
Language: eng
Format: mobi, epub
Published: 2014-08-22T15:46:52+00:00

ALBERTO LOOKED around Señora Yupanqui’s chicheria with a satisfied smile. His friends were having a great time. The band Miguel had hired played a mix of folk and dance music that seemed to be universally appreciated, although no one had gotten quite drunk enough to start the dancing yet. Looking at Shaun and Don snuggled up together at one of the tables, Alberto didn’t think it would be long, though. Neither was the type to sit still for long, and the music was a temptation they wouldn’t ignore forever.

“We did well,” Benicio said as he came up to stand next to Alberto. “Shaun and Don were surprised and touched.”

“They’re that kind of men,” Alberto replied. “They take the small gestures to heart.”

“All the more reason to make them, because not everyone thinks to.”

“Especially not for people like them.”

“Like us, you mean?” Benicio said.

Alberto nodded sharply, trying not to think about the former friends who now avoided him because they’d seen him coming out of Cusco’s gay club one night. Fortunately not all his friends had reacted that way, but enough had to leave a sour taste in Alberto’s mouth.

“Not everyone is like whoever put that scowl on your face,” Benicio reminded him. “Even here in Peru. Señora Yupanqui doesn’t care.”

“We’re paying her not to care,” Alberto said.

“It goes beyond that and you know it,” Benicio snapped. “Why are you in such a bad mood tonight? We’re supposed to be celebrating.”

“Sorry,” Alberto muttered. “It’s hot in here and I have a headache. I’m going to step outside for a minute. I don’t want to ruin the party for anyone else.”

The icy breeze off the mountains burned his skin, a welcome change after the heat of the bar and the scent of the chicha brewing in the back room. The smell didn’t usually bother him, but tonight, like everything else, it grated on his nerves. “What is wrong with me tonight?” he muttered. “I’ve been looking forward to this all week.”

However unflattering it was, the answer stared him in the face. He was jealous. Horribly, miserably green with envy at the life Shaun and Don had built together, at the freedom to be themselves and the security to share that with those around them. Even if he got lucky one day and found a man to spend his life with, he wouldn’t have that freedom. They’d have to live hidden in plain sight, if not hidden entirely. They’d never have rings on their fingers to show what they meant to each other. They’d never be able to walk down the street holding hands. They could never give any outward sign of their relationship anywhere but a few select safe places.

“Alberto?”

Alberto pushed off from the wall where he had been leaning when he heard Connie calling his name. “I’m here, Connie. I just needed some fresh air. I was getting a headache.”

“The party was a wonderful gift for Shaun and Don. They’re having a great time.”

“I’m glad,” Alberto said, and he was. He wanted them to have a good time and enjoy themselves.

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