A pack of shirtless, cocksure Ohio State students, also finished for the day, yak in raucous voices and romp in the water. It is time to leave school and head home to eat. Ephia at her side, Neely's unhurried, fluid strides propel her up steep, crumbling sidewalks and around tight corners from the school to la casa de la familia Rojas . Here the two live like members of the Rojas family. The high, windowless wall surrounding the Rojas home cloaks a lush interior built around a flowering garden.
All rooms face into the blooming courtyard.
With the doors thrust open during the day, fresh air circulates throughout. Cool, stone tile floors would soothe hot bare feet, were it not for the threat of a wayward scorpion's sting. It is wise to always wear shoes when in Mexico. Senora Chela Rojas and the maid are bustling in the kitchen when Neely and Ephia arrive. Knowing this, the women eat heartily.