Unmasked

UNMASKED

The clouds, backlit by the moon, drifted across the sky giving the hacienda a piebald appearance. Barely discernable, a darkness moved in the inky pools of quiet shadow.

The fox approaches the hen house! Don Diego de la Vega smiled, both at the thought and the pun. 'The Fox' – Zorro in Spanish – was about to strike again.

Pausing, the faint sounds of Toronado could be heard. Patience, my friend. He sent the thought toward the horse and silence ensued.

The clouds momentarily spilled moonlight across the courtyard, revealing a small balcony high above. "Ahh, my lady," he murmured, "tonight you shall have company."

He had been introduced to La Señorita Maria del Pilar Cuesta Acosta at a party. She was large and magnificent in the full regalia that was popular in turn-of-the-century California. The way her combs seemed to float in a sea of raven hair, the way her jewels danced as they lay on the softly rising and falling pale skin of her ample bosom! Diego sighed.

He deftly threw a rope over the balustrade, climbing the wall cat-like. Checking that his mask was firmly in place, he stealthily opened the doors and listened. He could hear the soft sounds of sleep.

Approaching the prize, he gently lifted the gauzy materials. Her bodice floated in the pale light. The undergarments were next, their softness running across his hands. Her perfume seemed to intoxicate.

"Señor! What are you doing with my panties?"

Startled, Diego turned to see her staring at him. "I was just ... admiring ..." he stumbled out a confused explanation but gave up and leapt for the doors.

Riding off through the desert night, he pulled the handful of clothes he had gathered from inside his cape. These will do nicely. I think we're about the same size!


Notes:
An entry for the 2/9/10 round of "Daily Flash Fiction Challenge"  [13+]
Prompt: Write a story that includes the words: moonlight, mask, confused

Word Limit: 300
Word Count: 300

Thank you for taking the time to read my story. Please, as long as you're here, leave a comment. Criticisms, thoughts, reactions, yes – even words of encouragement or praise – are all equally welcome

Ken