Esperanza Rising

in Alfonso’s garden, whose giant leaves spread
out, encroaching upon anything smaller. The uncles
eventually stayed each day until dark, taking all
their meals at the ranch as well. Esperanza could
tell that Mama was uneasy with their constant
presence.
Finally, the lawyer came to settle the estate.
Mama, Esperanza, and Abuelita sat properly in
their black dresses as the uncles walked into the
study.
A little too loudly, Tío Luis said, “Ramona,
grieving does not suit you. I hope you will not
wear black all year!”
Mama did not answer but maintained her com-
posure.
They nodded to Abuelita but, as usual, said
nothing to Esperanza.
The talk began about bank loans and invest-
ments. It all seemed so complicated to Esperanza
and her mind wandered. She had not been in this
room since Papa died. She looked around at Papa’s
desk and books, Mama’sbasket of crocheting with
the silver crochet hooks that Papa had bought her