18. Romero's Strength

In chapter 18, the next rounds of bullfighting begin. Romero had spent a few days with Brett at this point, and he found himself in love with her. However, unlike Jake and the other characters that also found themselves in love with her, Romero does not become weak or overpowered because of her affection. During the bullfight she only seemed to aid him, according to Jake "because he did not look up to ask if it pleased, he did it all for himself inside, and it strengthened him... he did not do it for her at any loss to himself. He gained by it all through the afternoon," (220). This greatly sets Romero apart from Jake and Brett's other "loves" because he maintains his original loves and values of bullfighting over Brett. In contrast, the other characters sacrificed their feelings and values just to be near her or in an attempt to regain her affection.