CHAPTER TWENTY-FOUR
2001 – Back Home
My flight to Panama was uneventful. Mr. Henriques got me a first-class ticket on American Airlines- “so you can change your departure date if you decide you want to extend your stay.” That was more than fine with me. Whenever I traveled to Panama, Haiti or the DR I tried to avoid anything past the fourth row- flights were always filled to capacity, and people were more than happy to push and shove their way off the plane. And like I’d reminded Mundo, I can’t deal with crowds.
As soon as I stepped foot onto the jet bridge, the heat and humidity provided an instant memory cue. My body loosened up, my mind was at peace. For the moment.
I texted Mundo.
Off plane. Heading to immigration. Will text when at baggage carousel.
Mundo hit me right back.
Alright, bro. I’m right outside in front of the airport. See you soon!
It took almost an hour for my luggage to show up.
When I got outside, Mundo was right there waiting for me. When we got into the SUV, he had a cooler full of beers waiting and a reggaetón CD ready in the player.
I was back in the Caribbean. Back home.
Back with my brother, Mundo.
