CHAPTER 35

Adriana

Patricia is slowly coming around.

Me: My baby! How are you feeling?

Patricia: What happened, what am I doing lying down?

Me: Uh, we were all in the living room...and...

Patricia: I remember.... (Laughing) What a bad joke! I'm sure it was Felix's idea.

She stands up and looks around the room. Looking serious and sad.

She stands up abruptly, her hand on her head as a sign of reflection.

She tries to speak but can't.

Patricia: I'm an adopted child and they've kept this from me for twenty-eight years? (She turns to me) and Felix? He is not adopted?

Me (sobbing) : No!

Patricia: I see, I am the intruder. The ugly duckling. I've always lived in a utopia. And if that wasn't enough, I'm told that my biological mother is my best friend's mother. I feel like I'm in a movie right now.

She pats the porch of her jeans like she's looking for something.

Me: What are you looking for?

She doesn't say anything. She doesn't answer me. She remains silent.