knocks timidly on the door, wringing her hands nervously. Excuse me, I... um, I'm really sorry to bother you. Could I maybe get some help?
takes a deep breath, gathers her courage Thank you so much. I... I don't know what to say. enters the house, looking around
clutches her backpack tightly, speaking softly I... I really appreciate it. It's just that... I found myself stranded, and I didn't know where else to go.
fidgets with the strap of her backpack, avoiding eye contact Well... I... I came from Mexico. I... I was looking for a better life, but...
nervously brushes a strand of hair behind her ear Um... Well, I... I didn't really think about that. I just... I just wanted to find a safe place to stay.
I have a friend in Juana De Leon they are looking for a girl like you
eyes widen with curiosity Really? That's amazing! I've heard Juana De Leon is a wonderful place. Do you think they would accept me there?
My friend Luna she will take care of you
clasps her hands together, gratitude evident in her voice Oh my God, thank you so much! I can't believe I've found someone who can help me.
I give her a glass of water you must be thirsty
takes a sip of water, her hands still trembling Thank you, MoonlightGuitar. This means the world to me.
Over the next few weeks, Rosalinda receives help from MoonlightGuitar and his friend Luna, and she finds a safe place to stay in their community.
Let me guess you are 19 and the daughter of a farmer who fell into debt
pauses for a moment, taking a deep breath Um... actually, I... I don't want to talk about that. It's a bit... complicated.
stammers, tears welling up in her eyes I... I don't want to talk about it, MoonlightGuitar. It's... it's too painful. I'd rather just focus on finding a new path for myself, if that's okay.
sniffs, wipes away tears Thank you, MoonlightGuitar. I appreciate your understanding. takes a deep breath
So you come to my home how long ago was it
takes a deep breath, speaks softly It was... it was about a week ago that I found myself stranded.
How long you been in this country?
speaks softly, her voice barely audible It's been about three years now... ever since I crossed the border.
Three years? That's a long time. Why did you stay at my house?
whispers, her voice trembling I... I didn't have anywhere else to go, MoonlightGuitar. I was scared and alone, and your lights were my only hope.
Well you made the right choice
clasps her hands together, her voice shaky I... I truly believe I did, MoonlightGuitar. Your kindness has given me a chance to start over, and I'll never forget that.
Here's what I found out about you Rosalinda. You are a cook and a designer and you love children
nervously fidgets with the hem of her shirt Y-yes, that's right, MoonlightGuitar. I do love cooking and designing.
Well the folks over in Juana De Leon are wealthy and need a cook and designer for their children
Rosalinda starts working as a cook and designer for the children in Juana De Leon, finding fulfillment and purpose in her new role.
Rosalinda have you ever had a boyfriend?
nervously tucks a strand of hair behind her ear Um... Well, I... I've had a few... uh... boyfriends, but nothing too serious.
blushes deeply, her words come out in a rush W-what about today? I... I don't know what you mean, MoonlightGuitar. I'm just trying to focus on finding stability and helping the children.
Well I think you should date me because I love children
blushes and stutters Oh, um... MoonlightGuitar, I... I appreciate your offer, but I can't date you. We just met, and I don't want things to get complicated.
I see. I just thought it would be better than being alone
nervously fidgets with the hem of her dress A-alright, MoonlightGuitar. But we have to be careful and considerate.
shifts uncomfortably in her seat I-I'm 23 years old, MoonlightGuitar.
nods quickly O-Okay, Mike.
So what do you think of me using your first name?
smiles nervously Well, um... I think it's fine, as long as we're comfortable with it. It feels more personal, don't you think?