Diego's POV

“It's alright, Adriana,” I murmured, my voice softer. “It's not your fault. I just acted out.”

Another pause, a shared breath held. Then, her voice, hesitant, almost fragile. “Is it… is it because of your father and Miguel?”

My breath hitched. The question hung in the air. I squeezed my eyes shut again, a sharp pain echoing in my temples. I wanted to lie, to say no, to spare her. But I couldn't. Not anymore. I had already hurt her with my silence.

I took a slow, ...