THE PARTNER

by Mauricio Kartun

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SCENE I

A small and dirty piece, in the background of a restaurant. High iron bed, blanket of
gray mondongo. Smell of the bear's cave. It makes you want to open the only small window of the room: a
high banner, on the side wall. It is noon, and the bear sleeps with snores like
vomiting. A small ragged and chipped wardrobe. Hanging from one of its doors, on a hanger, is a
impressive red poncho.
Standing in the middle of the room, Nico tries to get used to the dim light. He dresses oddly;
bullfighter pants, black and shiny. Deep-cut fantasy vest. White shirt with jabot on
the one who has grafted an out-of-fashion tie. A brown bataraza jacket. Muddy
little heel shoes, and a small canvas bag abandoned on the floor. She is sixteen years old, and a
dark hope of a mustache. Coughs trying to wake the other. Waits. Looks around. Goes.
toward a wall and turns on the room light: a bare bulb hanging from a wire
greasy and fuzzy. Pachequito, on the bed, like a stranded ship. An enormous arm
hanging towards the ground. The feet sticking out from under the blanket. Club and mustache. The mouth open and
toothless. She opens her eyes with difficulty. She sees Nico. She startles. She turns to face the wall and
pretend to keep sleeping.

NICO.- I told the boss who I was and he let me through. He said to tell him to wake up, that it is
noon. (Pause.) He says he is already tired of it.

PACHECO.-(He enters violently. A histrionic gesture of anger.) If you have a problem with me
Say it to my face! (He puts a hand to his mouth as if hiding something.) I'm not a man.
I can't take it anymore, boss! We clean the accounts and...(Nico joins in unison.)...air to the
Pilchas! (Pachequito looks at him annoyed. Pause.)

NICO.- He covers his mouth.

PACHECO.- Wild truths are trying to escape from this pen!

NICO.- He is missing two teeth.

PACHECO.-(Transition. Touched.) Who told you?

NICO.- He was sleeping with his mouth open.

PACHECO.-(Slowly takes the hand away.) So we meet again. Life is a braid.

NICO.- I've been looking for him for three months. They told me at Variedades that he was here in Campana.

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PACHECO.-(Flattered.) And did they know in Variedades?

NICO.- A complaint came from the buffet vendor of a club. For getting drunk and...

PACHECO.-(Interrupts angrily.) Speak properly! Haven't I educated you?

NICO.- Yes. For drunkenness, and for wanting to screw the woman.

PACHECO.- Crazy jealous! What would I like about that cow.

NICO.- Were the teeth his? (Pachequito responds with an angry gesture. He stands up and goes toward the)
He wears only shorts and socks. With a small key that hangs from his neck, he opens the
lock. Nico approaches him. Pacheco starts to take out clothes.) Change your underwear too.
I'm going to give him a beating.

PACHECO.-(With forced dignity.) Only my women annoy me with the silences.

NICO.- And now he's heartbroken.

PACHECO.-(Violent.) My things! Since when do you care about men's underwear?

NICO.- Don't you always puff yourself up with that? That the day one ends up in the hospital, they can ...
find anything but the dirty underwear.

PACHECO.- I don't plan to end up in the hospital for the rest of the day. (He starts getting dressed. Nico...
take off the jacket. (Tense pause.) He's in work clothes.

NICO.- I got ready for the trip. You always say that one must go...

PACHECO.-(Interrupts.) You say! You say...! What do I end up being...? The oracle
Am I coming to be?

NICO.- No. My dad. (Pause.) The train was packed. Full of students. A picnic. (Takes out)
pocket two tangerines. He extends one to me.) They invited me.

PACHECO.- I have food left over everywhere. (He bends down and pulls out a plate from under the bed)
with empanadas.)

NICO.- They laughed at the clothes. They never saw.

PACHECO.- Mom's kids. (He throws the plate onto the bed with disgust and picks up a slipper)
chases a cockroach that has come out from among the meat pies.) Devil animal...! Not even God.
Do you know why it saved you from the flood! (Smacking it with a shoe.) Wanting to ruin me the
Breakfast! (Setting the plate aside with disdain.) Food is what I have in excess. A little Paraguayan girl in the...

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The kitchen that has me like this. A fan. (With a stomp, one cockroach reaches another.)

NICO.- The team. They never walk alone. Well... you told me once.

PACHECO.- The place is not great but the work is easy. The number is a huge success. I do a
two tickets per night.

NICO.- The boss told me he is a singer waiter.

PACHECO.-(Blushing.) A young singer who is not the same! An artist who, if they comply, gives
A hand in the living room! I'm not one to turn my nose up at work! (Annoyed.) Singing waiter...(Take
a pastry and begins to chew it thoughtfully.) You did well to come. So did I.
I wanted to see you. To chat for a while. With the rush, in the end the last time...

NICO.- He escaped.

PACHECO.-(Nodding.) So that's what he thinks of his father.

NICO.-(Moved.) He escaped and left me at the Argerich.

PACHECO.- So for you a tour would be... like it is... an escape, it would be.

NICO.- Not a single note was able...

PACHECO.- What a nice criterion from this group of people with an aura...!

NICO.- He was not able to show his face.

PACHECO.- Didn't I leave you money? Or did that handful of bills mean nothing?

NICO.- He left me stranded in the hospital.

PACHECO.-(Hides his agitation.) Look at the storyteller just like his mother! Lying down in the...
Hospital! As if I knew what to do with you in that state! What did you want me to do with you like this?!
Where did you see a plastered criollo shoemaker up to here?

NICO.- You had to take me anyway! We're a duo, right?

PACHECO.- Of course, because there is plenty of money!

NICO.- I used to get by with nothing.

PACHECO.- Dragging that leg along the paths of God... So that it ends up lame in the end and
resentful towards his father.

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NICO.- She left me for Carmen. That's why she left me. She made a duet with her.

PACHECO.- I had to make a living, right? Someone had to replace him. It was quite clear.
with the northern style. He taught me some little things... And well... He made me the partner.

NICO.- Do you know how I saw it coming? He always does the same thing. When he asks someone to...
teaches things from his land, it's because he is already wanting to lower himself.

PACHECO.- Just accuse me... My conscience is as clear as spring water.

NICO.- Aren't you ashamed... Being so big and curling up like that.

PACHECO.- Don't mistreat me, Nico, I ask you.

NICO.- What! Are you going to deny that that woman drove you crazy?

PACHECO.-(Long pause.) You're very inexperienced, Nico. You wouldn't understand. Your father is a man
fiery. And a fiery person, Nico, is, deep down, weak. (A very intimate confession.) Nico... It happens to me
with redheads. Mysteries of the heart that it is good to be knowing. I see their skin... those
reddish hair... like the spirit of a land across the sea, that becomes irresistible to me... that...

NICO.-(Interrupting annoyed.) Stop messing with that, dad. Carmen was chubby.

PACHECO.-(Furious.) Was she redhead or was she not a redhead?

NICO.- She used to dye her hair. But she was really attractive!

PACHECO.- The only thing I was missing…! Racist! (Long pause. Nico starts to take out the
blankets with the intention of making the bed.) What are you doing?

NICO.- I’m sweeping. (On the floor.) Later I'll give it a good cleaning with acaricide. They are going to eat it up.
cockroaches.

PACHECO.- First one I see. The heat brings them. (Annoying pause.) In the end, she left...

NICO.- Who?

PACHECO.- La Carmen. In Urdinarrain. Fresh air for the clothes!

NICO.- I already knew. The boss told me.

PACHECO.- Old trumpet! Don't I have a private life...?

NICO.- I asked her. If she was there, I wouldn't go in. I didn't get along with her.

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PACHECO.-(Shrugs.) The Bolivian has a shitty character.

NICO.-(Takes a bucket and a cloth. Rolls up his pants.) Tell me where I can get water.

PACHECO.- The tap of the ladies' toilet is on. It comes out stronger. (Nico is going to leave. Pacheco it)
Nico... You are a good-hearted boy. The truth... It is not right that you and I
let's hold grudges! We all mess up from time to time... I have forgiven him too
Some to you... Why don't we make peace once and for all...?

NICO.-(Moved.) I have them ready, Pachequito.

PACHECO.- Call me grandfather...

NICO.- You know how I want it, grandma...

PACHECO.- You have no idea the excitement you give me, brother-in-law...(He puts a hand on his shoulder and him
I also feel the blood calling me with a scream so loud that it leaves me without
voice... And look at me like that... How silly! I can't tell you, my friend, how much I care about you...(Nico's eyes)
Nublan. Pacheco hugs him.) At least the hours we spend together should be a memory that only
this scapular can keep...(Hits the heart.) The left-handed one!(Emotional pause.) Just go ahead
I'll be waiting for you here. We have a lot to talk about around this fire... What time is your train back?

NICO.- No dad... Stay calm. This time we are not going to separate. I came to stay with
you.

PACHECO.-(Smiles awkwardly.) So that's how it is... Uhhh...

NICO.-(He stomps the floor.) I still can't stomp, but the bone has healed too well. The doctor says:
"It can break somewhere else, but there..." How do you say...? "A club made of ñandubay."
Don't worry about the work. I am rehearsing a new piece. Something that comes from within me.
A very modern thing... it's going to be liked a lot.

PACHECO.- (Very disturbed.) Yes, yes... no, that's not it... but...(Transition) The situation is tough,
Nico!

NICO.-(Trying to understand.) We have gone through them, dad.

PACHECO.- Understand me, buddy, it's not that I don't want to...

NICO.- How many times... And in the end, it never failed... As you say: "God squeezes but does not choke."

PACHECO.- That was before. Now it also hangs. Look Nico, the square is in misery. I come from
to make Santa Fe and Entre Ríos. I could barely sneak... Some lice that look like snails!

NICO.- We have friends, dad. Let's go to the south... They've never let us down: Gasparini Grill,

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the group El Mangruyo, Dolores, Vivoratá...

PACHECO.- What are you talking to me about a tour when things are like this! I don't even have any posters left. From the printing house.

Just an investment. Travel, food... Where am I going to get such capital?

NICO.- It's being asked, dad... We've already done it.

PACHECO.- It's not happening, Nico... It's not happening. Do you think I like this dump?! Do you think this...
Is work worthy of an artist? Poverty has forced me!

NICO.- I manage it, dad... I take care of it with the drinks.

PACHECO.- The duo is not going...

NICO.- "How could it not be...?! I'm his partner! What does a partner do alone in life?"

PACHECO.- And what do you want me to invent? It's pointless to urinate against the wind... I'm fed up.
I'm already here!

NICO.- Let’s work together here for a while and he’ll recover...!

PACHECO.- What are you going to do here...?!

NICO.- Trabajo en la cocina.

PACHECO.- They have excess staff!

NICO.- I wash dishes.

PACHECO.- They have.

NICO.- For the food.

PACHECO.-(Cornered) What comfort do I have to offer you?!

NICO.- I throw a blanket on the floor.

PACHECO.- Like a dog!

NICO.-(Clenching his teeth) You're throwing me out like a dog!

PACHECO.- Don't say something like that to me, brother, it breaks my heart.

NICO.- Is he kicking me out, yes or no...?

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PACHECO.- For your own good, Nico...! I fall, and in my falling I seek to leave you to one side...!

NICO.- That's tango. We don't like tango. We are in folk music.

PACHECO.- We are, no! We are nothing. I am, and you are. I am a Creole reciter and you are
children's tap dancer.

NICO.-(He stands his ground.) What do I have...?! Do I have leprosy?! Is he going to spend all the time...
running away?! Do you know how many times I was kicked out hard, already? Twice with the Marists... With my aunt in
Cañada... With mom in Villa la Ñata, and then in Colonia Turca... Now in the hospital... What about me?
Do I have to spend my life looking for him?! Enough! This time he will have to stay with me!

PACHECO.-(Beaten.) Nico, please, don’t make it harder...(Goes towards him.) We are all
Good cowboys, but the poncho doesn't appear... You can't stay here. (Nico stubbornly shakes his head.)
Pacheco grabs him by an arm. Nico frees himself violently.

NICO.- If he touches me again; I'll bite him!

PACHECO.- Don't give me that hassle...

NICO.- Don't touch me!

PACHECO.- Don't mess with me, brother.

NICO.- I am not your brother! I am your son!

PACHECO.- Don’t make yourself hated for nothing. (Sententious.) I am soft but from below. Not from above.
I can handle the rig!

NICO.- Don't be a bastard, old fool!

PACHECO.- My hands are shooting out like a mob! (He bites a fist.)

NICO.- Fat fuck! Fake shit! (He covers himself expecting the blow that finally comes. A
A smack like a truck. Nico falls.) Doesn't he realize, you old fool, that one can't live like this?
(Pause. Takes her bag.) What are you waiting for...? Do you think you're going to make me cry? When the hens...
Me, I'm going to cry! (Goes to the door.) I haven't been a child tap dancer for a while now. Yesterday
I turned sixteen.

PACHECO.-(With clenched teeth. He extends his hand without looking at him.) May it be with happiness,
friend

Nico is going to take her hand. The door opens, interrupting the gesture that remains as
congelado. Entra Nydia. Ha pasado largos los treinta. Pizpireta. Afectada. Un vestido blanco
too youthful for her plump figure.

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NYDIA.- Pachi, it's me... Oh sorry...!(To Pacheco.) I didn't know...

PACHECO.- (Notably disturbed.) No, no... If already...

NYDIA.- I'm here at the... I'll take a spin and come back later.

PACHECO.-(Nodding quickly.) Yes, yes.

NICO.- No, it's fine... I was just leaving. (Nydia is left not knowing what to do. Provocative Nico.) There is
clothes to wash.

NYDIA.-(Smiles nervously.) You are mistaken, dear... I am not... I am...

PACHECO.- It's okay, it's okay... Nico was already leaving.

NYDIA.- Is he...? Nico...?

PACHECO.- Yes, she came to visit me, but now... She is Nydia.

NYDIA.-(Tilting her head with an affected gesture that she believes is charming.) Nydia... First
"i" griega, después "i" latina. Pachi me contó que...

PACHECO.- Yes, yes.

NYDIA.-(Uncomfortable.) Well... I regret we don't have the chance to... right? I would have loved to.
What... We are colleagues. I have a conservatory at home (Pacheco breathes nervously.) One thing without
aspirations but serious. Right, Pachi...? My little ones have made a cult of the native.

PACHECO.- In the end... Good...

NYDIA.- A gang of little chicks eager to know... And I'm the mother hen! Right, Pachi...? You
Father, precisely, being such a restless artist, as soon as he met me he asked me to teach him the airs.
of this land...(Pacheco coughs violently.) Did I say something? (Nervously.) Pachi always tells me that I am
a chatterbox. What am I going to do... I'm kind of explosive, aren't I?! (Keeps talking out of inertia.)
When I am with people, I don't know... It must be because I am all day without talking. I live alone with my dad.
What is a man very... very...(To Pacheco.) Am I talking too much, right?

PACHECO.- No, please...

NYDIA.- I get worse with the premiere...(To Nico.) I don't know if I told you that we did a duet. (A
Silence.) In a few days we debut in Vivoratá. (Another worse silence.) Well... anyway... It's not going to happen.
lacking the opportunity to chat a little... I'll say more later. (Long and uncomfortable silence.) Anyway...
(Just to say something.) Were you leaving already?

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NICO.-(He goes to the closet and starts throwing the clothes from the bag violently)
shelves.) No. I was already leaving. (The lights go down.)

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SCENE II

As the lights come up, Nico and Pachequito sharing the bed, one on each side. The feet
nakedness of the father in front of the face of the son.

PACHECO.-(Trying to tune a old portable radio tied with string.) It's not working, Nico...
A trio won't do...! Three on stage is a crowd! What do you think it is...? Is it the Party of the
Harvest season...?! What a little pile of nonsense it is! (Nico falls silent, offended.) We can't even cover the expenses.
(Shaking the radio.) Look, look at how I am...! I don't even have batteries! I've been throwing them away for two weeks.
putting them in the oven. (Putting the radio to her ear.) It doesn't make noise, but the smell reaches up to
Zárate!(It is extended.) Olé... Tamales yesterday. Today meat pie.(Nico pulls his head back annoyed.)
On top of that, the fat one, just full of sweet talk...! That she can't leave the father alone...! That she has to come back each
three days...! It's already tiring me, too!

NICO.-(Without abandoning his anger.) And leave her...

PACHECO.- (Annoyed.) What am I...? Do I not have a word, do I...? I have my commitments with the
Miss! (Some noises can be heard outside and the voice of someone passing by humming.)
Pacheco startles. Anxious.) Umm... It's that girl... Good friend... Guarani. (He becomes agitated.
He looks like a boy. Finally, he gets up and puts a chair next to the little window.) I tease her...
Here comes the little umbrella... (She climbs onto the chair and pokes her head out through the narrow opening.)
Goodbye the flower of the passion fruit...! How I love its songs...!(She makes gestures to Nico)
complicity. Because of the radio she still has in her hand:) No...! I was looking for some music to ...
Hush... Help me find sleep...! Man who walks alone: What other remedy! He laughs
with me, see what I tell her...! I'm going to sing a love duet for the girl! :(Sings.) "If one day
You want to kill me/you don't need a dagger/stop wanting me for a while/and the blow will be deadly" (Laughter. Ends)
haciendo la guitarra:)¡Te'lundí te'lundí te'lundí...!(Risas.)¡Y sí...! ¡Para voz no hay como la
Mine...!(Laughs. Pulls Nico aside.) Why should I make her laugh if she has all black teeth...?! Wanting to
What a disappointment for me, just like that! (Laughs alone. Again outward:) Let's see... Maybe
After... I'm already all undressed...! (A while.) Goodbye my girl... See you later! (There's still a
mouse still on the chair smiling. He discovers Nico's reproachful gaze and pretends.
Back to fiddling with the radio knobs.) In the end, the donkey gave birth...! It cost me, but I've got you!

The murmur of a nighttime audition can be heard, which will accompany the scene softly.
presence. Returns to bed trying to carefully maintain the orientation of the radio.

NICO.- "Are you also listening to La Peña del Transportista here...? Always the same crap."
you...?

PACHECO.- Look at the rich kid...!

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NICO.- I'm not saying that. We are artists. What does it have to do with you and the truck drivers?

PACHECO.- (Does not answer. Shrugs. Lies down. After a while.) What do I know... (Thinks.)
We're walking down the road, aren't we? (Pause.) Have you not seen your mother in a while? (Nico stays silent.) I spoke to you.
Nico.

NICO.- Yes.

PACHECO.- What do you mean?

NICO.- Yes. A while ago.

PACHECO.- Maybe... It seems to me, doesn't it?! It would be good for you to spend some time with her...
(Nico shakes his head.) Even if you don't get along with him... Trying not to argue. Looking to not
to be when he...

NICO.- No.

PACHECO.- Why, Nico, are you like this...?

NICO.- Because not.

PACHECO.- Can you imagine... For a mother... That her son doesn't go to see her! It's like a... like a...

NICO.- I went on Tuesday.

PACHECO.-(He is excited.) And...?

NICO.- At the hospital, someone lent me a bicycle. A lady from charity. I told her it was for
exercise the leg.

PACHECO.- Were you with her...? And didn't you feel like...?

NICO.- I pedaled all afternoon.

PACHECO.- What won't a child do for...!

NICO.- On Márquez Avenue, a semi almost hit me.

PACHECO.- Did you see her, yes or no...?

NICO.- Do you know what that neighborhood is...? Go up the river: the water up to here. A muddy mess...! I had to use the bike.
carry by the pulse from the asphalt. In the end, for what...? So that it tells me... (Be quiet.)

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PACHECO.- What?

NICO.- Five blocks on foot!

PACHECO.- Should I tell you, what?

NICO.- Crap Rincón de Mildberg!

PACHECO.- Nico, are you messing with me or what...?

NICO.-(Thoughtful.) I wasn't there. I turned back.

PACHECO.- How could he not be...?! You said that...!

NICO.-(Explodes.) It wasn't there! It wasn't there! Do you not know what it means to not be there...? Am I getting involved in
His things, me?! Am I asking you about his things?! After all, she's my mother, not yours!
and turns his back. Pause. Pacheco stands up and starts putting on his pants.) Where are you going...?

PACHECO.- I'm going to the bathroom. Do I have to ask for permission to pee?

NICO.- To go to the bathroom, you don't need to put on your pants.

PACHECO.- I am thirsty. I will go forward to look for...

NICO.-(Pointing to the table. A small canister and a bottle.) Inside the canister, there is Carioca.
orange. Light as you like it. If it's too sweet, there's water in the bottle to dilute it.

PACHECO.-(Annoyed.) Fine. I still have to go pee.

NICO.-(Reaches under the bed and pulls out an enameled spit bucket.) I got it.

PACHECO.-(Disturbed.) I don't see why.

NICO.- If you go to the counter, you'll get kicked out. You'll be thrown out from your ass. (He imposingly hands over the urinal.)
I'll throw it away later.

PACHECO.-(He snatches it from him with a swat and throws a piss at him like a curse. He huffs.)
you have as a son, Nicolás Pacheco...! You have me as a son!

NICO.-(Goes to the small table and serves him juice.) You have to take care of the job. Here at least we can
to rehearse.

PACHECO.- You try to be charabones. I have been practicing enough. Twenty-five years.
I have a rehearsal! You all practice the steps. With... with... the shaking, I don't know.
let's see if they even crap on me while stepping. What a nice pair of dancers...! Vilcapugio and Ayohuma: two

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national disasters...!

NICO.- A single dancer. My act is not about dancing. It's about speaking.

PACHECO.- What about...?

NICO.- Dance, just Nydia. I talk. I tell.

PACHECO.-(Surprised.) It would be... like mine?

NICO.- No. Better.

PACHECO.-(He gets agitated.) He... he's going to compete with me.

NICO.- Not similar. This has never been seen before. (Pacheco waits intrigued. A moment.) I tell
stories to make you cry. (Pacheco's eyes a two of gold.) They throw the boy far away to anyone.
yours. Besides, I do them myself. I don't have to walk around with the little books there, saying the things of someone else.

PACHECO.- And what stories do you make up?

NICO.-(Dry.) About life.

PACHECO.- And what do you know about the death of 'el turco'...?

NICO.- I know. More than you know.

PACHECO.- (Annoyed) So, colleague, you're copying my work...?

NICO.- I'm not interested in yours. Yours is older than I don't know what. I'm thinking about the audience. I give them...
new things. Not like you. Don't you realize that art has to change? That it has to become more
modern...? What will he realize!

PACHECO.- A beautiful thought from a criollo! So the tradition does not represent a value to him.
You! The futurist! What the hell are you coming to mess with mine for! If you want to change, change it!
Yours! To the malambo, it changed!

NICO.- I won't stomp anymore. Dancing is for faggots. It's for women. (Furious.) For chubby women and
charlatan.

PACHECO.-(Hot.) Look at the poet!

NICO.- Poets make little verses. Didn't you hear that these are stories?! It's something else. It's from a writer.
this.

PACHECO.-(Long pause. He is intrigued. As if he doesn't want to say it.) And how would they come to

14
being...?

NICO.- Go see me and pay the entrance.

PACHECO.-(Hides the anxiety.) If I don't even know what it is, I don't know how the hell I'm going to include it in the
number.

NICO.-(Doubt.) There is one about an aviation mechanic.(Silent.)

PACHECO.- And again...!(As if helping him, a distant accordion grows in the radio.)

NICO.-(Swallows. Quickly, monotonously, and with his head down.) He was a good man, gentle.
and cultured. He lived in a lovely little house with a garden and a chimney. A chalet neighborhood in Palomar...

PACHECO.-(He stops him with a gesture.) Woof woof! Hang in there, dad, the bride is a dude! So that's how it is.
Are you going to say...? I don't see how you're getting any juice out of it like this. (Nico gets out of bed in his underwear. He stands up. Closes
the eyes focused with strength.) Does it go like this in leather? What is a success if it goes like this in leather is not going to
to be...

NICO.-(Firm.) Are you going to let me go once and for all...? Or do you want to see him on the opening day? (Pacheco is)
calm down. A moment.) He goes with a poncho. I have to buy. (Although no one looks at him, he charges
presence the huge poncho hanging on its hanger.

PACHECO.- (Touched) You with a poncho... like me? (Nico nods. Pacheco uncomfortable.) Well.
It's fine, put it on. But don't step on my stuff. (Nico puts it on. It's very long on him.)
He resumes his narration. He becomes engrossed and narrates with naive histrionics.

NICO.- I was married to a blonde. A stunning and hardworking woman named Roxana. And
they had a son, Fernandito. A boy barely six years old turning seven. The man's dream was a
Red Renault Fuego. But the Air Force salary was not enough. "We need to save up,
old lady...,
With a thousand sacrifices, he saved for the advancement and they handed him the coupe. What excitement that afternoon when
He arrived with the vehicle! Roxana caressed it proudly and Fernandito looked at it dazzled and happy.
That night, he took them to the center. They went to eat pizza and to see the numbers of the Tango Patio.
They returned to Palomar very late singing romantic music while the boy slept in the seat.
back. Days went by and the mechanic Quintana had it all fixed up. It was his greatest pride. He
he polished the covers with cream and put in a cassette player. Saturday afternoons were sacred. It
I was washing from top to bottom and giving it a wax until it looked great. (Pause.) That Saturday, no
he knew why, but the man had a bad feeling. He was scrubbing away at the cloth while
Fernandito was playing with the steering wheel pretending to drive. The little one, who didn't understand much because
era muy chico, se puso a jorobar con un destornillador que había en la guantera. Con esa inocencia
What do the children have, he started to poke the screwdriver into the upholstery making a small hole next to it.
from the other. Keep going with the tool on the armchair. He thought it was nice, and it made him look like he was working
like the dad. Suddenly Quintana peeks through the window and sees the disaster. Damn! It got to him.
the blood to the face and he went crazy! "You filthy brat! I'm going to teach you some manners!" And

15
blinded by rage, he grabbed the duster that was on the roof and began to whip with the handle the
small hands of the little one. How the little one screamed! But the father, crazy in the head, did not
he listened to reasons. He hit and hit until the child's fingers were bathed in blood. (Pause
The mother arrived to calm the nerves. Without shedding a tear because she was very
Little boy, Fernandito went to sleep in his crib. Quintana was left trembling on the sidewalk and
grinding his teeth. Days went by, and everything seemed to be forgotten. Only one thing troubled the
couple: the child's hands, which were becoming increasingly swollen and were turning a violet color.
One night the boy woke up delirious. He was burning with fever and was rushed to Diego Thompson Hospital.
The specialist gave them the sad news: there was gangrene. Science fought for five days and lost its battle.
They amputated both hands at the wrists. The parents were distraught. Quintana
I spent the nights unable to sleep, tormented by memory and guilt. Finally, they gave him the
high. It was a sunny and warm morning. Quintana went to pick him up with the Fuego. Fernandito sat down on
the passenger seat without saying a word. His father didn’t speak either. Stumble, Caseros, and the
the silence became unbearable. Suddenly, the boy, looking at the holey upholstery, started to speak
Humbly: (Takes a position. Speaks haltingly.) "Daddy... I know you punished me.
because I behaved badly. But daddy... If I don’t do it anymore, and I work a lot, and I earn a lot of money, and I you
Can I buy a new seat... will you give me back my little hands...?
small house in Palomar. The boy was left in the little garden looking sadly at the sidewalk. Suddenly a loud noise
shook the peace of the neighborhood. Quintana with a weapon he had, had blown his brains out.
the head indicating the end. Pause.)

PACHECO.- (Explodes.) But stop messing around with that crap! Don't you have anything else?
More beautiful to be thinking about?! If you want to work with me, practice a nice little dance number!
What to do crying like a sick pig! And give me that poncho that is too big for you!
(he lies down and covers himself.) Let me sleep for once, and go empty the spittoon that reaches here.
smell of the urine! (Nico dignifiedly takes the spittoon out from under the bed and goes out to the patio with it.
Pachequito is just joining in. An irrepressible emotional gesture.) Oh chicken of my eggs...!
Blackout.

16
SCENE III

Hot and mosquito-filled dawn. Through the wide-open little window comes from the living room a
distant rhythm of tropical chamamé. Nico and Nydia rehearse the choreography of the Escondido.
Transpiring. Nydia -a shawl over her shoulders and an embroidered handkerchief in each hand- dances
with forced elegance. The high chin and a smile, placed like a seal, that she assumes
enigmatic. Nico on the other hand, bored, repeats the figures with undisguised displeasure. The shirt
open to the navel.

NYDIA.- (The music plays, marking its rhythm, and showing the beats with her fingers.)
Tuntaraira... tuntaraira... tuntaraira... tarairarairarairará! Inside! Tararirarirarira tararirarirará!
Another! Tararirarirarira tararirarirará! A round little turn! (Continues.) Stamping! Pa-pi-to pa-pá pa-pi-
Oh come on...! (She stops, annoyed.) No Nico, no... There is no other foundation for the artist...

...that the perspiration. You've told me that twice already.

NYDIA.- Things are as they are. (She taps her feet.) Pa-pi-to pa-pá pa-pi-to pa-pá pa-pi...
(Nico snorts.) It's a lively dance... it’s... it’s... All from here...! (He raises his chin and moves his...
handkerchief with a cheesy gesture.) The lady hides and the knight represents the quest. It is... it is... Everything.
intentional. It is... it is...

NICO.- What a nonsense! (Nydia bows her head, embarrassed.) The man pretends he can't find her.
She is clapping in his ear. Either he is deaf or he's playing dumb!

NYDIA.-(Beaten.) I... I... Why are you speaking to me in those terms...? I didn't invent it.
Hidden.

NICO.- All the dances are the same. They're so effeminate!

NYDIA.- You used to dance.

NICO.- It was stamping, which is different! The malambo is not a dance. It is a... It is a... It's different!

NYDIA.- I... if you want... We talk to your father. We do a malambo number.

NICO.- Women dancing malambo! Ha! That's something I've never seen!

NYDIA.- Don't believe... There have been cases... I have taught it a lot and...(Nico makes a gesture)
Derogatory.) It would be an original number. (Pause. Difficult.) Nico... I don't want to steal anything from you.
I don't want you to lose anything. But this is very important to me! You can't miss it.
Imagine! I... have not left Campana. I... am not a little girl. Always here. Paying attention to me.

17
Dad, you know. With his hemiplegia, without me, that I change him, that I feed him... For me this...
Going out, acting is like... it's like... Please I'm asking you don't make me argue about this! I am a
woman, Nico, and I need things that you can't understand because you are...(Doubt.)

NICO.- Yes. A boy.

NYDIA.-(Looks at him strangely.) No. (Suddenly they are facing each other and close.) A
man.

Nico is surprised. They look at each other for a moment. As if continuing the choreography, they break the figure.
returning each one to their corner. Pause.

NICO.-(Difficultly.) Forgive me.(Pause.) I was kind of a jerk. The truth is I was like the
ass. (Nydia covers her mouth, holding back a giggle. Nico glances at her sideways. He relaxes. After a while.)
If you want, we can continue.

NYDIA.-(For the chamamé.) That music...! It hasn't stopped all night. What time is it already?

NICO.- Around four. On Saturdays they take advantage. People stay until dawn.

NYDIA.- I'll be leaving in a little while.

NICO.- She must be coming soon. At this time, they don't serve anymore. The kitchen is closed. (Touches the side wall.)
You can tell by the heat.

NYDIA.-(Shielding herself with her hand.) No wonder!

NICO.- They are no longer useful, but they stay for the tips. (A moment. Suddenly.) Doesn’t the little bag...
Do you ever take it off?

NYDIA.-(Laughs.) Like a uniform! The mark on the edge of Nydia Catá. I don't know... Things of the
family. My late mother was very detail-oriented. If it were up to her: Little lace gloves! (Shows them.)
Two handkerchiefs: one for dancing and another for drying. I don't know... I like it. I don't know... Things
distinguidas. La apariencia es importante ¿no?. Se habla de lo que se ve... y... y...(Se detiene.
Break.) If I talk too much, tell me. I can't hear the silence since I have to fill it with
chatter, me.

NICO.- It's okay.

NYDIA.- Like throughout the night, you barely interrupted me... That's just how I am. Where I get a little bit of
Cord me... me... What were we talking about?

NICO.- From the little bag.

NYDIA.- Do you see what I'm saying? So much chatter that in the end I don't even know what I'm talking about. (Thinks.) In the rocks

18
They stand out a lot. The details, I don't know. They are like a hallmark. Even their album has each one! I am
The Pala Pala! (Laughs.) One enters the room and they already put it on. Everyone knows each other. You don't realize it.
they say they come from outside; but it's like a family. With their sympathies... Their little fights...
(Think. Shake your head as if pushing away a thought.) Since I was a kid: Friday and Sunday,
sacred! I may be dealing with depression but there: some castanets. My little bag, my envelope and Aura...!
Just flutter the little handkerchief so that a line of suitors forms. (Laughs.) In the end, it’s like a
Game. We've known each other for years! Like brothers! (Thinks. Trans. For himself.) With those who
It had to happen, it already happened. And with the others, it will never happen. (She becomes thoughtful. She takes off her jacket with...
Rabia. Her back is freckled and sensual.) Such heat and I'm wearing this jacket!

NICO.-(Somewhat nervous.) The mosquitoes are going to eat you.

NYDIA.-(Sitting on the bed.) Put it on me. (Nico takes a bottle of ointment and rubs it on her.)
(timidly the back.) That's why when someone new arrives... Your dad, honestly, won them over.
Everyone with kindness! He has a way of reciting... We all cried! If he hadn't had that...
misunderstanding with the buffet... still...(Think. Transition) When she told me to do a duet,
I almost fell from the excitement! Oh my, Nydia, I said to myself...! It finally arrived! The problem is my dad,
that I have to leave it with a lady who takes care of it for me. It's the weekends...! I go and
I'm back... It's not going to be much, right? (It gets bad.) Still, it gave me a dog's face. It keeps going.
putting on the dog's face. He calls me with the little bell and then doesn't talk to me. He puts on the face of
just a dog.

NICO.- Pachequito says he has you as his servant. That he is a nail. He says that you were leaving him in a...
residence.

NYDIA.-(Distressed) No. No... He's dying.

NICO.- Why...?

NYDIA.- He told me once. "I'm dying." (Pause.) As long as I have him alive... (Pause.) Of the family
He doesn't get along with anyone. They can't stand him. Dad is very strict. He's not bad. He's strict. The bell rings.
and you have to be by his side. You should see how he is! He can talk, but he doesn't want to. Pure little bell. For the
Just noise, I already know what he wants. If he made a mess. If he wants the milk soup. To turn on the TV for him.
And nothing but gymnastics programs. (He softens.) What a little rascal he is! He likes the...
Girls in swimsuits! (Pause.) The debt we owe to our parents is unpayable, Nico. Everything is little.
They take the bread out of their mouths. (Thinks.) Priceless... (Pause.) That's how they taught me.

NICO.- I don't owe him a single bus ticket.

NYDIA.- Don't say something like that.

NICO.- If it's the truth.

NYDIA.-(Pause.) Each house is a world.

19
NICO.- Yes. And in all of them they find a way to mess with you just the same. (Laughter and whispers can be heard outside.)

PACHECO.-(Outside.) It’s fine! It’s fine...! I can do it alone...(He opens the door and continues speaking)
outside. He has drunk a lot. Lip ball, the words slip away from him. He recites with intimate intonation.)
India beautiful mix of goddess and panther... Naked maiden who inhabits the... What is it that inhabits...?
Oh, the guayrá! (Warm laughter.) Look how sweet your tongue is, guayna, huh? Sweet and warm like few others is yours.
language. (Long and suggestive pause. Nydia and Nico in annoyed silence. Pacheco peeks in: boots,
chiripá and white apron. He discovers them. He is startled. To his companion.) I am being waited for the
Nico is raised... We will talk tomorrow... (Whispers something nervously. Finally enters and closes the door.)
You stayed up late after all...!

NYDIA.- I wanted to know if you had any news. We have been rehearsing until now. The hidden one goes out a
little clock.

PACHECO.-(Walks awkwardly. He hands Nico a plate covered with a napkin.)

NICO.- Why do you drink if it’s bad for you...?

PACHECO.- Things of mine... I'm already grown up, right?!

NYDIA.- Nico is right, Pachi. You don't have good drinks.

PACHECO.- Goodbye my money! Today I have the home team against me!

NICO.- The boss sees it this way, he gets upset. What is he looking for...? To get kicked out of here too?

PACHECO.- There...(He tries to take off his boots with difficulty. Nydia helps him.) I'm already...
Tiring this cheerleading place too! An old guy on the five who bothered me all night...! He
I did 'The Legend of the Marker' three times! Pig face... let him sweat! He said he had me a
job...! In the end, he asked me to make him some little goats, like a cowboy, in a country house. Well.
bored that you have me, yes!

NYDIA.- A little patience, Pachi. Just a few more days... It's going to be different there.

PACHECO.-(Calla. A Nico.)Tendría que tomar unos mates, a ver socio si... ¿eh?

NICO.- The kitchen is already closed.

PACHECO.- From the counter.

NICO.- The express machine must also be cold.

20
PACHECO.- In the small furnace then. (More energetically.) With a little patience, put...!

NICO.- (Annoyed. Takes the kettle and is about to leave. To Nydia.) Should I bring you something...? I'm saying from the front.

NYDIA.- No, thank you very much... I appreciate your kindness. (Nico leaves. When she finds herself alone with
Pacheco discreetly separates from the bed.

PACHECO.- Come here...

Nydia.- Nico can come back...

PACHECO.- It's not that... There are some things I need to talk to you about.

NYDIA.- (Distrustfully) It's not that... But understand the situation! You have taken... You need to sleep...

PACHECO.-(Sits on the bed. Nydia steps back.) But damn!

NYDIA.- I... I am a modern woman... If relationships are to be had... Well, you have them, right? But
understand me. I have my own way of being... I need time for these things. Here I also feel so
in sight...

PACHECO.-(Attempts to interrupt.) Listen to me for a moment...

...Here in Campana, I mean. Everyone knows each other. They talk... When we leave this little town
What... what... Vivoratá is big, isn't it? It's more...

PACHECO.-(Interrupts.) We're not going to Vivoratá!(Nydia is left paralyzed.) The plan didn't go through.
trio. That's what I had to tell you.

NYDIA.-(Does not react.) Ah.

PACHECO.- I'm going to Ingeniero White. Some little dives. There you work every day, like that.
to go and come back, difficult.

NYDIA.- Ah. (Long pause. Restraining herself.) I... I had the dress made... It’s beautiful.
the model...(begins to cry he remained.) Of mid-season...

PACHECO.- Look, my friend... Maybe this is better this way... You have your commitments... Your dad...

NYDIA.- Is that why, isn't it? (She excuses herself.) I can't leave it in a... I thought a lot about it but I didn't
I can leave!

PACHECO.- ¡Y está muy bien...! Déle ese alegrón... en los años que le quedan...

21
NYDIA.- I... I... I ask you not to do this to me!

PACHECO.-(Annoyed.) And what do you want me to come up with...?

NYDIA.- I... I drown in Campana. I need to get out a little... Have something... I'm asking you for it.
What more do you want... All I had was the group and I don't even have that left.

PACHECO.- Ideas that you have! Those people appreciate you a lot...

NYDIA.- They ignored me...! Don't you understand? It's your fault they ignored me!(Remember
like a madwoman.) I raised the handkerchief once... again... And nothing! Just pure giggles! I turned red from the
I got angry and went to the dance floor alone. Everyone else sat down. At a gathering, that's the worst thing that can happen to you...
Being ignored. When I crossed the track, a rude person made a noise with his mouth. It must have been
Pestrelli. The disgusting one! Before marrying Dorita, he went out with me for a while. He had a foot smell.
what a bore, the disgusting one! (Pause.) The lady at the dressing room told me about the day of the fight. I
I didn't know the details. She told me that the waiter found them in the toilet. She was kneeling and you
I was...(Bursting into tears.) How embarrassing! And I, like an idiot, dancing the Pala Pala...!

PACHECO.- Why stir up the wound, Nydia... What's done is done.

NYDIA.- I beg you for what you hold dear, help me...(She approaches and takes his hand.) For your mother
I beg you...! For the memory of your holy mother...!

Pacheco.- I... I don't know... I...

NYDIA.- Let's find a way... I work on weekends... Something...(She fondles it. She clings to)
A hope.) Maybe you... You took what just happened as a slight...

PACHECO.- I... I...

NYDIA.- Yes! Yes! I'm sure you took it as a disdain... That's why you don't want me to...!
You are mistaken...!(While crying, she starts to lift her skirts.) If you want, I... I...
I'll do what you ask me (Pacheco shakes his head.) Take me Pacheco...!(The painting)
run. Her thick thighs. Her flowery little panties. A crude and sad picture. It opens up the
door and Nico enters with the teapot in hand.

NICO.- What’s going on...? (Energetically to Nydia.) What’s going on...? (Nydia, sobbing, lowers her skirt and
she starts to fix herself nervously.)

PACHECO.-(Mumbling confusedly.) I... I don't know... Nothing is happening.

NYDIA.- I... I don't know... what happened to me. I... I... fell apart. Something made me feel bad...(She starts to...
put on the little jacket.) I am taking an antibiotic. For the tooth. It seems that... it seems that...(Suppress
(a new fit of crying.) I'm fine now... Very good. Where is my envelope...?(Nico takes it)
It reaches. (Takes out a handkerchief.) This one... this is for dancing... (Takes out another.) Here it is. (Wipes his/her face)

22
tears.) I'm already leaving... Nico, it seems he is not taking me to Vivoratá. He says they are going to
Engineer White. (Nico looks at Pacheco.) You have to understand. I can't leave it... I don't know.
He's doing well with me, but if I leave, he'll die. (Fixes hair.) I'm a complete mess. No.
It's important. I'm just here. At this hour, familiar people are not on the street...(Takes a deep breath.)
Well... Nydia Catá is going home. May they dream of little angels. (Goes to the door.) Nico...
Tell your dad not to be mean, okay? Not to be mean. (Exits. Nico and Pacheco remain in.
moved silence.

NICO.- Why did you lie to him/her?

PACHECO.- More respect for the father...!

NICO.- Engineer White, we can't even step on it. He owes each saint a candle.

PACHECO.- Things of the elders.

NICO.- He wants to get rid of her.

PACHECO.- What am I...? Am I to be a falsifier...?

NICO.- And now, what's the next number?! Are you going to get rid of me too...?
Is he going to lie to me too? Isn't he ashamed of the Paraguayan? He is twenty years younger than you!

PACHECO.- And what do I have to do with the little umbrella, let's see...?! These are things of camaraderie.
work camaraderie!

NICO.- It has been three afternoons that he has come to look for you in the afternoon. He says that you asked him to teach you the...
Gallop.

PACHECO.-(Disturbed.) America, Nicolás Pacheco, is a land rich in dances!

NICO.- Yes, but you don't want to dance. You want to take her.
and then bursts out laughing.) What is happening to him now...?

PACHECO.- You know my gallop, Nico... What is the truth is the truth!
grotesquely with the clothes.) Help me with the apron...(Nico does it. Pacheco hugs him and throws him.
about the bed next to him.)

NICO.- Let go... give it... What did you give her...?

PACHECO.- (Holding him as in a game.) Oh Nico, dear son, how tired you make me.
everything...!

NICO.-(Simulates resistance. He is moved.) He called me son. (Pause.) He never calls me son.

23
PACHECO.- Am I not able to be a father?

NICO.- The father...! The guy! He has a fart that he can't even say pichicho!

PACHECO.- Come here with dad...(He hugs him against his chest. Nico lets it happen. A gesture of
annoyance that poorly disguises her happiness.

NICO.- Let it go... hey!

PACHECO.- I'm already grown up, my little black one, right?

NICO.- Yes. It would be about time for him to settle down.

PACHECO.- And how would that be...? You who are a serious young man.

NICO.- I don't know. Are you telling me...? Not to escape anymore. (They remain embraced in silence.)

PACHECO.-(He laughs.) It is a blessing to be a father, Nico. The downside is that you have to stop being a son.

NICO.- This is how one grows up, right?

PACHECO.-(Thinks.) Look at the things you're saying... My kid has grown! Have you seen his face yet?
God...?

NICO.- Stop messing around. You think I'm like you, that's the only thing you think.

PACHECO.- But yes or no? (Nico does not answer.) Look my son, it is a matter of health. It curdles.
otherwise. They walk around afterwards with dark circles under their eyes that look like squids! (Nico laughs.) Here comes the part of the
love where the father advises the gaucho son...(Laughs. Slaps his face.) You will be foolish Pachequito
Things you tell the boy...!(They both remain silent, looking at the ceiling.)

NICO.- Do you see how it is...? Do you have to get drunk to be a little more human...? (Pause.) Do you know
What do I remember now...?

PACHECO.- Treat me informally.

NICO.- What...?

PACHECO.- Tell me about yourself.

NICO.- I... I can't do it. (Laughs nervously.)

PACHECO.- Go ahead.

NICO.- Do you... remember when we lived with mom in the boarding house on Montes de Oca. You... you...

24
you acted in the Piccolo Navio. On the Mondays you had off, you would put me to bed in the big bed with
you all.

PACHECO.- I used to make you sleep by singing the Boca march. (Pause.) The boarding house. Things have happened,
damn...(Pause. Starts to sing with a rough voice.) 'Boca Juniors... Boca Juniors... great champion'
...of football..." (It continues for a long time. Nico closes his eyes.) What was it called again?
pension? A strange name. Look, it has been a long time. (Pause.) To your mother alone, at least six years.
I can't see her. (A while.) Your mother was a glory back then. You had to see her. What they have...
Charrúas: they win you over with sweetness. (Pause.) The one I saw once, your aunt. She continues with the bus driver, she says.
Your cousin went to Río Gallegos. He works in road maintenance.(Pause.) How lonely the gaucho is in the
pampa, right Nico?! (Nico doesn't answer. He has fallen asleep.) You fell asleep. Better. The nonsense he says.
the countryman Pacheco! If there are no parents like the criollos! Just look at the tradition, my friend. The legends
Notice: Durmisa goes to the dance and leaves her son Crespín sleeping alone. They come to inform her that she...
The ranch is burning. "One more little piece and I’m done..." says the old woman. "A little polka, a chamamé..."
"Durmisa! Mommy!" calls Crespín. "Save me, I'm burning alive!" when he arrives at the ranch,
In the end, the boy is a mess. "Old hussy...!" God says to her, "Right here you
"I turn into a little bird." And Durmisa flies away. "Crespín...! Crespín...!" for an eternity.
(Pause.) So, in the end, what did they want from the poor...?! For her to do like the Deceased Correa, the
Deolinda, who had to become jerky in the desert to be a good mother...?(Like voices
calling from afar.) ¡Deolinda...! ¡Deolinda...! ¡Durmisa...! ¡Crespín...! What an orphanage this land is,
Mommy... There aren't two of us who make a pair...(He remains thoughtful for a moment. With a movement
the mechanic puts his hand under the mattress and takes out a flask of "Three Feathers." He opens it with the
teeth and takes a fierce gulp. Nico squirms. He quickly hides the bottle.) Shhh...! Shhhh!
"Boca Juniors, Boca Ju..." Tranquilo hijo... tranquilo que estoy aquí.(Lo arrulla. Pausa.)Cangas de
Narcea was the name of the pension. Look how much time has passed. (It stays a long time looking at Nico.)
Children are a blessing, yes... A blessing. The sweet part of life. (Pause.) Sweet, like the
nipples of the little Paraguayan. (She moves very carefully until she gets down from the bed. It remains a
time thinking. Doubting.) It's starting to cool down. The night air is coming down. (Takes the poncho. Goes to
put it on. He seems to regret it. He takes it off and wraps it around Nico lovingly. He murmurs.
Crespín... Crespín...

Take the flask until it's empty. The light dims to total darkness.

25
SCENE IV

The room in shadows. The small window closed and the curtain drawn. Soft knocks on the
door that no one answers. Finally, someone opens. The morning light barely outlines the
figure of Nydia peeking into the darkness. She drags a large bag with effort.

NYDIA.-(Low voice.) Pachi... Nico... it's me.

NICO.-(Barely visible in the dim light. Alone on the bed in the same position as the scene)
previous.) Go ahead.

NYDIA.-(For the purse.) The handle came off. We should run a wire through it. A man should take care of it.
Tomorrow. (Pause.) It's about twelve o'clock. (Puts a package on the small table.) Invoices. (Long pause. His...
voice like a whisper. As if she were telling herself.) In the end, I made my decision. (Pause.) The lady does not
I finished the dress. What a shame. I paid for it anyway. If we ever cross paths... The classic not
Out of style. Still, a pin won't fit in the bag. (Pause.) I left a little sign on the door.
house. For my chicks. Also because of the smoke: I put Gamexane. Just in case they call the
firefighters. I gave all the potted plants. It's a shame about the broom in the back. But the broom is strong.
"As long as the two rains of January fall..." That's what mom used to say the year we went to Alta Gracia. What
Coincidentally, today the taxi driver knew dad from the post office. He reminded him of a party once.
On May Twenty-Fifth. The employees put up a plaque on the mast. Dad was very respected in
the email. He didn't reply a single time to the taxi driver. The gentleman must have been upset. In the... residence
They had me fill out some papers. He asked to go to the bathroom. After a while, the nurse came to get me. He
I wanted to go. I was sitting on the toilet. My legs were weak. I closed the door. Then
He grabbed the little bell, moved away a bit, and threw it among the poop. I didn't move. He raised his hand. He threw.
the chain, and he kept looking at me with the face of a dog. When I was leaving, I told a nurse that he
Go clean. I was reading 'You the Nurse'. Spring-summer fashion. (Long pause.) Can I open?
the window?

NICO.- Yes.

NYDIA.-(Runs to the window. She opens it and gasps for air. The light illuminates the room.)
History like the ones you make. If you want to make it, go ahead. I give it to you as a gift.

NICO.- Too soft for me. Let's say it was on Christmas Eve if you want. And that everything went to
Pedo. (Pause.) Pacheco left with the Paraguayan woman.

NYDIA.- Ah. (Sighs. Goes to the chair and sits down at the table with a lost expression.)

NICO.- Son of a bitch as always. He escaped like a rat. He couldn't even take his poncho.
(Revolea el poncho.)Basura. Se lo quemo. Ahí nomás donde lo encuentre: en la cara se lo quemo.
(Pause.) The jerk was not able to leave a note.

NYDIA.-(Sad.) What a little mouth. (Pause.) Are you going to go after him?

26
NICO.- A fighting dog. He won't laugh at me.

NYDIA.-(Suspira.)No tengo suerte yo. Mejor. Menos problemas ¿no? Partir es morir un poco.
Open the package of invoices. In an elegant manner but without pause, he starts to eat one after another.
Another.) Suit of La Unión. La Mar del Plata, a lot of Viennese invoices but they are very stingy with it.
egg. Pure turmeric. Did you know that yellow is turmeric...? (He chokes. Coughs violently. He
Recompose.) Like in a hurry. The anxiety. Mine is all anxiety. (Pause. Sighs.) What a life this is.
The things that happen.

NICO.- I thought you were going to fall apart.

NYDIA.- Why?

NICO.- Women are crybabies.

NYDIA.- Something happens to me that I don't know. Like a peace. I would stay like this forever. Like in a limbo.
Without thinking. (Pause.) I will have to go pick him up at the residence. It doesn't matter. I tell them that I...
I was mistaken. A little embarrassment. I will pay for the whole month. (Pause.) Later. Better not.
I think. You can't even get in the house. I put Gamexane. How stupid.

NICO.- I'm in no hurry. I'll stay until tomorrow. I arranged to work in the kitchen tonight.
For the passage.

NYDIA.- Ah.

NICO.- The boss offered me Pachequito's position.

NYDIA.- And?

NICO.- No.

NYDIA.- Why...?

NICO.- I'm not a figure. I'm a partner.

NYDIA.- Ah. (Pause.) So tomorrow...

NICO.- Yes.

NYDIA.- You are going to Vivoratá.

NICO.- To what? It doesn't have a strand of foolishness. The fake is like the teru teru: On one side it screams and on
another has the balls. (Pause.) I'm going to Calamuchita. He went there for sure. He has a ...
compadre of the conscription there, who set up the grill.

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NYDIA.-(A moment.) A mischief Vivoratá... Having work, I mean. How things are today
day...

NICO.- There was work for the duo.

NYDIA.- Ah. For the duo.

NICO.-(He looks at her. He becomes thoughtful.) The square is very tough. Some lice that look like snails.

NYDIA.-(A moment. Goes to the bed and starts to make it.) I'll give you a hand. So we won't be
with crossed arms. (When lifting the blanket, a shirt and a pair of underwear fall to the floor. Nydia picks them up.
I give you a little wash. You'll take them clean. With this heat, they will definitely dry.

NICO.-(Blushing. He snatches off his underwear with a swipe.) 'Stop it! My laundry is bothering me.
only...(Shut up.) I'll wash them myself.

NYDIA.- Forgive me. I am so used to my dad that for me... a used pair of underwear, for
me... men's clothing... There's no difference.

NICO.- I am not your dad.

NYDIA.- No, I'm not saying... I mean, you are a man like my dad and... I keep putting my foot in it...! If you
If I bothered you, tell me.

NICO.-(Difficultly.) I am not a man to keep quiet. If something bothers me... Let it out.
clothes!(A time of emotional silence. Repeat.) Air to the clothes...

She covers her face with the pillow. A long cry remains. Nydia stays there silent, a long
mouse. Then:

NYDIA.- Well... Nydia Catá is going to look for her daddy...(Takes the bag and drags it to the
door. Look at the room saying goodbye. Exit and close.

NICO.-(Raises only his tearful eyes. Strongly, at the door.) What is expensive there is the accommodation.
Time. The door opens again. Nydia again.)

NYDIA.-(Without looking at him.) Oh really...?

NICO.-(Swallows. Does not look at her either.) Yes. In one way or another, you manage with the ticket.

NYDIA.-(Nervous.) That's what Córdoba is like. In season: an anthill. They take advantage.

NICO.- I'm not talking about Calamuchita. I'm talking about Vivoratá.

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NYDIA.- Ah. (Pause. Hard.) I have something. For the first days.

NICO.- There is a boarding house on the route that knows me. It's kind of noisy because in front there is
tire shop; but it is economical. One piece could be taken...

NYDIA.- Ah. (They finally look at each other. Pause. Nydia approaches and picks up the underwear again.) I wash
Well, I have foamy clothes.

NICO.-(Blushing.) Take the things out of the bag. I’m going to fix the handle. (Nydia puts the bag down)
on the bed. Open the zipper. Take out some clothes. Hesitate. Without looking at Nico, she starts to
put it in the wardrobe.)

NYDIA.- The posters are the least of it, right? It would be seen later. The important thing is to be well.
rehearsed. For the artist, there is no other foundation than sweat.

NICO.-(Humming with a sad smile.) Pa-pi-to pa-pa... pa-pi-to pa-pá...

NYDIA.-(Without stopping to tidy up the clothes, she corrects by tapping her feet slowly:) Short the braid
little one the button... short the braid little one the button...(Nico joins him, dancing with his
backs. A couple of moves, just, and in a long but definitive gesture, he puts on the poncho of
Your father.) Shortens the braid, little button...(They face each other. On Nico, upright, the poncho
it doesn't seem that big.) The braid is short. The button is small.

BLACKOUT

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