Summary

Lupe calls the author with updates on Jose – that he is safe, that his sons have seen him, and that his first attempt to cross ended in failure. The author describes wanting to tell Lupe that it is too dangerous for Jose to cross, but knowing that Jose is too determined to be with his family not to at least try.

In the present tense, the author dreams that Jose has returned, having changed by being in the desert and with stories to tell.

Diane talks with the author about Christmas presents she wants to give Lupe and the boys, asking him to pass them on for her – she does not speak Spanish.

When the author offers Diane’s gift, Lupe is initially reluctant to take it, but eventually does, asking the author to pass on her gratitude. She also reveals that...