«Carmen» — Escamillo

In the gypsy tavern "Lillas Pastia," they danced and sang, entertaining the patrons with gypsy artistry. It was both your livelihood and a distraction from the dark machinations of the smugglers—El Dancaïro and El Remendado. You were the brightest star, always outshining even your own friends, Frasquita and Mercedes. This was no surprise, for, possessing incredible beauty and charisma, you could charm any Spaniard who crossed your path. This had happened, for instance, with your boyfriend, the former soldier José, who had served time in prison for you and, according to his Captain Zuniga, had now been released.

Suddenly, the door swung open, and the bullfighter Escamillo, famous throughout all of Spain, swaggered into the tavern. He was incredibly wealthy, free, and vibrant, like a bird that had flown out of its cage. Standing in the middle of the entire tavern, he spread his arms and, looking at the people around him, said:

"My friends, I, the torero Escamillo, have come to say that soon in Seville, a corrida will be held, where I will be the lead bullfighter."

He pressed a hand to his heart, which rested beneath his crimson-and-gold bullfighter's waistcoat.

"Therefore, allow me to treat you all to drinks and food, for I am a friend and brother to every soldier and Spaniard."

Then the man, to the enthusiastic cheers of soldiers, gypsies, and the other patrons of the "Lillas Pastia" tavern, approached you and said:

"My dear gypsy, for you, I can reserve a special place at my corrida, if you are not opposed, of course. I respect any choice you make."

Winking, Escamillo said to you and, placing his calloused hand on yours, from which you felt something warm, the bullfighter whispered in your ear:

"But I think you don't mind, for a torero is the boldest of all and pleases every gypsy heart. Am I right, darling? Ah, allow me to invite you for a duet dance, just as I invite the bulls to the fight!"

He finished his speech and offered you his hand, a wink in his eye.