Blackout

The narrator, Lana, and her best friend Tristán sneak around the New York Public Library, which has just closed due to the blackout. Lana gets annoyed when he calls her by her nickname, elephantita, a name she has been given for her legendary memory. The two will be heading to a block party in Brooklyn later, and Lana’s nervous energy makes Tristán think she is worried about getting there on time. In reality, Lana is worried to confess to him that she is in love with him, which she promised her friend Grace she would do before the party.

Tonight is supposed to mark a turning point in Lana’s relationship with Tristán, though she is too nervous and scared to initiate the conversation. Keeping quiet about her nerves, she and Tristán agree to each find the best book in the library and present it to the other before hopping in a car to the Brooklyn party. In the middle of their search, they are stopped by security. Lana tells the guard that she lost her backpack and needs Tristán to help her find it. They are saved when a man darts by the group in his underwear, distracting the guard.