Chapter 8, August 12, 1934 Summary

At the apartment of his mistress Laura, Cruz prepares for an evening on the town. The two met at a concert, where they happened to be seated next to each other. Laura has left her husband and moved into an apartment, apparently paid for by Cruz.

The phone rings and Catalina asks to speak to her friend Laura. Catalina has reconsidered and wants to purchase a sofa Laura had thought of selling. Catalina says it will perfectly compliment the draperies in the vestibule of her new house. Later, as the two make love, Laura urges Cruz to choose between her and Catalina. Cruz reminds her that he never promised her anything.

On his deathbed, Cruz is aware of Teresa sobbing nearby. Catalina sent Teresa away to boarding school when she was six years old so that Catalina could devote all her...