Rob's head jerked up and his eyes narrowed. "I didn't hurt you." He repeated. "I wasn't going to hurt you."
Aaron headed for the door. "Come on Rob."
The two of them walked out the door, but Gerald stood still, watching after them.
Alex eyed Gerald. "What are you looking so glum about? It wasn't your wife."
Gerald glanced at Alex. "No." He stuck a hand out to Carmen and then Felipa. "Thanks again for everything." He turned back to Alex. "I don't know what to say. I was right here and I didn't know a thing was going on."
Alex eyed him doubtfully. "She didn't act upset?"
Gerald didn't respond for a moment, but when he did, his tone and expression would have melted steel.
"Well Alex, she was upset all the time you were gone. What did you expect?"
Alex looked away, his neck growing red. He looked at the floor and shifted his feet. Finally his attention returned to Gerald.
"I'm glad you got to come." He stuck out his hand. "You're welcome any time."
Gerald shook his hand and turned to the door, speaking over his shoulder.
"If I come back, you can be sure I won't bring Rob."
Carmen watched him walk out the door. What a mess this had been. He probably wouldn't ever return. Still, she had the feeling it wasn't over yet for Rob. She'd hate to be in his shoes. Finally she turned and went to the kitchen. There were tomatoes to process.
Felipa followed her and when Alex left the house, she turned to Carmen with a grin. I think Gerald put Alex in his place."
Actually, Gerald's intent was probably to ward off an attack, rather than chastise Alex. Obviously Alex expected him to take care of Carmen in his absence. Whether that was a result of friendship or direct request would probably never pass their lips. Whatever the case, Gerald had certainly held his own against Alex. No doubt that was one reason Alex respected him. It was no surprise that Felipa enjoyed the exchange. Senor Medena not only favored Alex, but allowed him to order Alondra and Felipa around. They might accept and even expect such behavior, but it had to be humiliating. It must have been comforting to watch Gerald remind Alex who he was talking to. It reminded Carmen of what Katie said about her response to Alex making an impression on the children. So far they had seen her blow up at him and obediently follow his commands. What they hadn't observed was how she could quietly and respectfully maintain her importance in the spousal role. She'd have to remedy that. She smiled at Felipa.