—Ellie—  

    The next morning, Dad, Mateo, and Salvador wanted to talk to me. When I walked into Dad’s office, I knew from their expressions that it wouldn’t be an easy conversation and definitely not one I’d like. 

   Dad sat behind his desk, Mateo perched on its edge, and my uncle stood with his hands in his slacks beside the window. I made a beeline for the sofa and sank down. My brain felt sluggish from lack of sleep. I’d spent all night trying to come to ...