Vera

Antonio’s words hung in the air like smoke, seeping into my lungs, choking me.

The truth about your daughter.

Vanessa stirred against me, sensing my tension. Her little fingers dug into my blouse as if she could burrow inside me, safe from his gaze.

I kept my voice steady, though my insides twisted. “You don’t get to speak about her. Not one word.”

Antonio’s smile widened, his cane tapping lightly as he circled the room. The gunfire outside grew louder, closer. But his calmness ...