Heading towards the Atlantic Coast
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Chapter 12. The Atlantic Coast and its Caribbean pirates
Bahía Blanca, Provincia de Buenos Aires, Argentina
“At school, they’re going to want to rid themselves of your sorry soul and feverish little body and turn you over to the family. Then, when they place their nervous little call, I’ll answer and reassure the devils.”
“I’ll simply tell them that I’m your grandfather. Of course, I can pick you up immediately; indeed, I will take you to the doctor personally. At that point, I’ll run over, pick you up, and together we head for the airport. Atlantic Coast, here we come! We’re off to Laguna de Perlas! The timing couldn’t have worked out better. Your mother has just gone to Esteli for the week; what’s more, your grandmother is in Honduras visiting her mom. When they come back, we’ll simply tell them that we left Friday and came back Sunday evening.”
“I don’t know. That would be telling a lie, Grandfather.”
“They call them White Lies, and those kind of lies really don’t count; but, on the other hand, if you prefer to go to school, then be my guest.”
The following day, in less than an hour, I was let out of school. Actually, it was so much easier then I originally thought. I confess that when Grandfather presented his plan, I had both my doubts and my misgivings. But, in the end, thanks to Grandfather’s convincing help on the phone, the task was relatively easy.
I was present, along with my fever, in the principal’s office at school, when she called home. I remember my supreme efforts, to repress a nervous snicker; instead, to look sick, and at the same time, maintain a perfectly serious face. I observed how Grandfather was conducting the conversation and guiding their answers.
I wished I could have heard both sides of the conversation, for my homeroom teacher and the principal, standing at the desk in front of me, began to relax and to giggle nervously at Grandfather’s replies. Finally, we got to where they profusely thanked him for his kindness and understanding, before ringing off and sighing with relief.
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