For some time, the execution of the criollos was a recurring topic of conversation in the town, with various versions of the story circulating. Most parishioners agreed that their deaths were a lamentable loss since all three were good young men. However, a small group believed they were part of an underground movement advocating for independence from the Spanish crown.
Whatever the truth, mourning and fear gripped the townspeople. The bodies were displayed to dissuade anyone from following in their footsteps, but that did not stop Father Facundo from dedicating a mass in their honor. He seemed too distressed, and the gossipers said it was because he secretly supported the traitors' ideals.Antonio Pérez Esnaola settled the matter firmly, explaining to the entire family that they didn't know those people well enough to echo such rumors. On the other hand, when he heard about Antony Van Ewen's visit, his good humor returned. The Englishman was an excellent match, whether for Amanda or Sofía. He had shown great generosity in compensating Diego for his arm. Without a doubt, a matrimonial alliance with him would be beneficial for the family.Sofía had been fantasizing about the Englishman since that day. He might not have the daring and bravado of Pablo Ferreira, but he was very handsome; his elegance, fine features, and accent were equally seductive.The young woman had taken it upon herself to embroider a large part of her elder sister's wedding dress. She had also helped decorate La Rosa Estate, where the reception would take place after the church ceremony. Everything was turning out splendidly. Isabel was very fortunate, and Sofía hoped to be as lucky as her.Once, Catalina took Isabel to her room to have a private conversation about what was expected of her on her wedding night. Naturally, Sofía tried to listen through the door, but she could hear very little before her mother dragged her by the ear back to the living room where the rest of the family was.The day of the ceremony arrived with the onset of autumn. It seemed as if the trees at La Rosa Estate shed golden tears to bid farewell to Isabel. The young woman looked sad but beautiful. That day, she would leave her family to become Mrs. Páez. Sofía would miss her greatly, but at the same time, she was happy for her. At one point, she had feared that due to her coldness, her sister would become an old maid.The church was fuller than ever. Many of Roberto Páez's guests had arrived from different parts of the Viceroyalty and even from Europe, so La Rosa would be crowded with guests for several days.Sofía approached Esteban Páez, who was having a casual conversation with Mariano Bustamante. The groom's brother barely acknowledged her with a nod and continued recounting an anecdote. The young woman, unaccustomed to being disregarded, left with a frown. Fortunately, she spotted Pablo Ferreira among the crowd and approached him."You look stunning, my beautiful lady," Pablo said gallantly and kissed her hand.Sofía smiled flirtatiously, thinking that Esteban Páez could learn some manners. They barely had time to exchange a few words before Father Facundo asked everyone to take their seats.Diego, whom Sofía hadn't heard arrive, surprised her by placing a hand on her back and guiding her to where the family was seated. She settled between her younger cousin and Amanda, who looked lovely. In recent weeks, Amanda had been busy with her drawings for the priest and the wedding preparations, but the work occupied her mind and made her feel good.Roberto Páez looked very handsome and elegant. He had shaved his beard completely, giving him a more youthful appearance. Beside him stood María Esther and Esteban, the wedding sponsors, and behind a carved wooden altar, the priest stood waiting.When Isabel entered the church on her father's arm, everyone stood to admire her. She walked slowly, as if trying to postpone the inevitable."She doesn't want to get married," Amanda whispered to Sebastián, who was beside her."I'm afraid I've never seen a bride who truly wants to," the young man commented quietly.Once Isabel reached her future husband, Father Facundo began to speak:"Dear brothers, we are gathered here so that God may bless with His grace your will to enter into marriage. Christ abundantly blesses your union and enriches you today, granting you strength with His Sacrament so that you may remain faithful to each other and fulfill the obligations of marriage."He asked if they accepted to join in marriage until death parted them, and once they both agreed, he declared them husband and wife."You may kiss the bride," the priest said, and Roberto Páez kissed his wife tenderly.An elegant carriage transported the newlyweds to La Rosa Estate. Leónidas drove, dressed appropriately for the occasion. Sofía, Amanda, and their cousins followed in another vehicle.The Pérez Esnaola family had spared no expense. A grand wedding was the best way to demonstrate that they were one of the wealthiest families in the Viceroyalty. They had prepared enough dishes to feed a battalion, with a menu featuring delicious Spanish and local delicacies. The melodies played by an expert pianist and the abundant spiced wine enlivened the atmosphere.A few hours after lunch, the guests' flushed cheeks betrayed the effects of the alcohol. The afternoon passed with laughter, dancing, and the occasional minor quarrel among the guests. Sofía, for her part, stayed close to Pablo Ferreira's waist."I think I now understand why people enjoy dances so much," the criollo confessed in her ear."Why?" she managed to ask timidly."Because it's the only way two people can get so close without it being considered immoral," he said, his lips brushing the lobe of her ear.Sofía could feel the young man's warm breath on her neck, making her shiver. They were so close that she feared he could hear her heart beating. A small movement was enough to bring their lips together. Terrified, she kissed him. She had read many romantic books to have a rough idea of what to do, but putting it into practice was very different. He responded to the kiss. His lips were soft and slightly moist. It was a short kiss, but tender and perfect for her.A quick glance around confirmed that no one had seen them. She still couldn't believe what had happened. Pablo had returned the kiss, and that could only mean he loved her too. It was the happiest day of her life.