The Fountains of Silence: A Novel

Ana begs Daniel not to say anything to Cristina because the situation in Spain is still unstable. Daniel asks if he can speak to his father, and she agrees. Ana’s concern that Daniel will be angry is unfounded; if anything, he is “overjoyed to share this connection with her” (443).

Ana promises Daniel there will be no more silence, no more secrets. In fact, she follows this up by being clear and direct. Ana also wants him to know that she “wants to be with [him] and [she] hope[s] [he] might feel the same” (444). Daniel is overjoyed, realizing that Ben’s prediction has come true. 

Daniel introduces Ana to Cristina, and they get along well. Nick suggests they all have dinner, and Daniel is still unsure if he can be seen with Ana. Nick reminds him that Franco is dead, and that Ana has been waiting for him for 18 years. For the first time in a while, Daniel feels a sense of hope.

Daniel tells Cristina about his love for Ana without revealing Cristina’s relationship to Ana’s family. Cristina is delighted to know that her brother is happy. She explains that she’s always felt guilty because people “imply that [Daniel] sacrificed [his] own personal happiness to take care of [her]” (448).