Chapter 8

The family sat at the dinner table enjoying the companionship and the delicious meal that Maria had prepared. They conversed easily about many topics. They marveled at the changes that had taken place. Desoto’s lancers patrolled the countryside more frequently and banditos were becoming less of a problem. Zorro was still needed on occasion but the people were beginning to trust in the lancer’s ability to protect the pueblo. Many were still suspicious of

De Soto’s actions but the caballeros kept an eye on the situation at hand. Felipe’s adoption was proceeding as planned and most of the final details were being worked out. Life was settling into a familiar rhythm and the family was encouraged by the events.

As Maria gathered the last of the dishes from the table, Don Alejandro and Felipe quickly excused themselves sensing that the couple wanted to be alone. Diego offered Victoria his arm and they walked the doors leading to the garden which was filled with colorful, fragrant roses. Diego gently caressed the petals of a yellow rose and offered it to the woman he had loved and admired for so many years. He motioned for Victoria to sit on the bench at the center of the garden. They sat quietly for several moments simply enjoying the starry night and the opportunity to enjoy each another’s company. Diego looked into Victoria’s brown eyes and decided that it was time to share his secret with Victoria.

“Victoria, there is something that I’ve been meaning to tell you for a long time. I am Zorro.”

Victoria glanced at Diego as he waited for her to respond.

“I know. “

Diego was surprised to realize that Victoria had guessed his secret and even more surprised that she wasn’t responding as he had imagined. He had expected anger not calm acceptance.

“When? How?”

“It happened some time ago. Pieces of the puzzle started falling into place after…”

“Gilberto’s death?”

“It makes sense once you really sit down and think about it. I’m glad Zorro turned out to be you. When you started this masquerade, I was filled with romantic notions of riding off into the sunset with Zorro. Now it turns out that I get it all. The romance of Zorro…The respect, friendship and loyalty of Diego… A love that will last a lifetime… My only regret is that I didn’t see the truth that was right in front of me.”

“Victoria, will you marry me?’

“I would be honored to be your wife, Diego.”

Diego leaned slightly toward Victoria as they pledged their lives to each other with a tender kiss.

The End