“No, I won’t go with him.” Luis stood defiant before Pêro.
Rafa was a black marble statue, his calm eyes fixed on the crate of tiles in front of them.
Pêro sighed. “Luis, there’s a backlog of work to be done. Go with Rafa and oversee the beginnings of this installation. He’s your assistant. You’re in charge.” Pêro gestured to the waiting box. “I cannot go right now. I have a meeting soon.”
“No, I don’t want to be seen in the company of an ex-slave.” Luis thrust his nose up into the air.
Pêro’s face turned red. “Look, there’s no time for this. You’ve been seen in his company for years. Whether or not you like it, if you want to be paid this week, I suggest you go.”
Luis snorted in disgust and turned to leave, disappearing into the street.
Pêro threw up his arms, knowing Luis would sta
