❁ ❁ “ Hermana...you really didn’t have to do all of this. ” Since she was practically dragged by her prima all the way to where they lived, she couldn’t erase the worried look off her face. From behind the rest of the Riveras followed them obediently, like a herd of lost sheep following their shepherd. The feeling of anxiety seemed to grow inside of her as they grew closer to the rest of the Sanchez, & it was a feeling that was rare for the Rivera matriarch to feel.
& for what reason was she afraid?
To come off as the one family member that was infamous for banning music? To be that one person that was known for nearly tearing a family apart because of music? So many thoughts were racing her mind, but the presence of her cousin had helped her calm down a bit. People you can call your familia...a place filled with people who respect & love you. Yes, she should believe her--she was never wrong, after all.
The touch of Carmen’s hand had only made her grip hers, as though a younger sibling was being guided by their other half. But letting go of the other’s hand to let her do her twirl, she smiled softly at her & nodded slowly. “ It still is, it always has been. ” Music...the sound of music was oddly comforting, especially to someone that hadn’t heard it for decades.
“ I’ll only dance when he asks me first. ” A quick glance given at Héctor who appeared to be just as nervous as she was, she smirked a tad.
Before they could all enter, the sound of a squealing pig passed by them all, followed by a man chasing after it that happened to be the son of the hostess. Ah, there’s Manolo.
‘Ay, I hope he’s alright--y I hope that’s not our dinner for later,’ was all Héctor could jokingly whisper out to the twins, who appeared to nod in unison at him.
One by one, the other Riveras entered & looked around for themselves. Although they weren’t quite certain as to what to do, the Sanchez themselves seemed to engage on them first, & gradually, a flood of conversation was sparking here & there, giving life to the entire household. As for her, she found herself still standing there in front of her prima, as if she was the only person in the entire room.
She missed it--she missed all of it, & she was glad she could have it all back in her life again. Approaching Carmen with open arms, she pulled her into a hug, one that was filled with gratitude.
“ Gracias, this is the best reunion I could ever ask for. ”
@corazondeeso cont’d from here