portrayals. At the start of the narrative, Gabriel, who has come from a humble background, describes his initial struggles and his employment with the theater actress Pepita González. He details his various tasks, from helping her prepare for performances to gathering items for her costumes, providing a glimpse into the life behind the scenes of theatrical productions. Gabriel reflects on Pepita's captivating presence and the adoration she receives, setting the stage for an exploration of their relationship and the broader societal dynamics of the time. The opening chapters establish both Gabriel's personal ambitions and Pepita's prominence as an actress, hinting at the complexities of their lives amid the culturally rich backdrop of 1800s Madrid. (This is an automatically generated summary.)