He made a speech about his candidacy, why he was running, and how much he appreciated the support he was getting from the people present at this dinner and from the community. He pledged to give his candidacy a real and determined effort, and then introduced Adan, who stood up to applause. “My son and I are partners in business and partners in life, in all either of us does,” Señor Bovio said, looking at Adan so proudly it brought tears to my eyes. “He’s going to watch my back as I go forward.” Everyone clapped harder. Adan and his father hugged, and then Fani’s father stood and pledged his support, announcing that he was donating a quarter of a million dollars to Señor Bovio’s campaign. I think my mouth fell open. I had no idea how wealthy these people were. He could buy my whole village and more with that donation, I thought. I gazed around at these people, these men in their fine tuxedos and these women dripping with diamonds and gold. Look where I am, I thought. How did I get here?
