Chapter 11
"Here my sweet. These are for you."
Louis placed a bouquet of roses on Julia's lap as she sat in front of the mirror applying lipstick before heading out to the local market.
"Hopefully these will brighten up your day." Louis said.
"Thank you President Silvay. I appreciate your thoughtfulness, but why am I receiving such a pleasant surprise?"
Julia studied Louis through the mirror.
"I just want you to know you're the most beautiful woman in the world, that's all." Louis leaned over and gave her an affectionate peck on the top of her head. He walked towards the window just in time to see a huge plane exit the clouds into the clear blue sky over Asuncíon with the letters TAM in bright red on the side.
"How do they get those things to stay in the air?" Louis asked himself. He stared at the gigantic metal bird until it disappeared back into the clouds.
"Because of the unrest in Asuncíon, I'm concerned about you patronizing with the locals." Louis said.
"No need to worry. I'll be fine," Julia said.
"I'll have a guard go with you. You are to never leave his sight. Understand?"
"Of course, dear," Julia said through a chuckle.
He knew she was stubborn and if she got tired of being babysat, she would attempt to candidly disappear.
"Ricardo will make sure you arrive and return safely. He is one of the only men who I trust would give his life for me. Do not leave his eyesight."
"Don't worry, dear. I understand the magnitude of the current situation. I'd never put myself any a position to give anyone leverage."
Louis kissed her gently on the forehead and exited the room.
As she sat in front of the mirror, she stared at the crow's feet that hinted at her age and the gray hairs that replaced the once beautiful black silk. Her knees were stiff and ached. Julia understood that while her beauty faded, her wisdom and knowledge grew. Why wouldn't Louis acknowledge that? She continued to apply makeup, singing softly under her breath the words to Corre by Jesse Y Joy:
"Me miras difirente, Me abrazas y no siento tu calor, Te digo lo que siento, Me interrumpes y terminas la oracíon."