Chapter 2

Eve was not completely pleased with the idea of running away with Sofia to a safe place, but she knew that she had no choice in the matter because her life and the life of her daughter was at stake because of the he kind of things the love of her life, Marco had gotten himself involved in. What she didn't know was how long she was going to continue being in hiding because all that mattered to her the most was a normal life for her daughter, Sofia.

"Where are we going to?" Sofia asked her mother, looking deeply into her eyes as they walked as quickly as possible.

"I am going to take you to a place where you are going to be safe, my love," Sofia responded, trying her best to be as calm as possible. She didn't want her daughter to be extremely worried about what was going on at the moment.

An hour later, they arrived at the house of Juan who seemed very pleased to welcome them. He was a young man who was known for his unusual kindness in difficult situations especially situations like this when the victim's life was at stake.

"You are welcome to my abode," Juan said, stretching his hands as far as possible as if he was preparing them to a personal world that was inhabited by only him.

"Thank you," Eve said, lowering her head, and bowing in a way that showed how well she respected the man.

After a few whispers were quickly done, Juan proceeded to show Eve where she would be spending the night in by featuring for a young woman who was at his service to take her to her room.

"Don't bother yourself," Juan said with a huge smile on his face. "You are safe here. I am going to make sure that no harm come to you and your daughter."

Eve nodded in agreement and in thanks. She was grateful that he was willing to put his resources at stake for the protection of her and her daughter, but the thing that amazed her a bit was why Juan was willing to do all these things for her when she barely knew him, and had barely heard about him from Marco who seemed quiet on matters relating to his friendships or his close associates.

"What are you going to have for dinner?" Juan came later in the evening to ask Eve who was busy arranging some of Sofia's clothes that she had brought along with her.

"Anything you're willing to provide would be appreciated," Eve replied, turning to face Juan. "But if you don't mind me asking, why are you helping us like this? I barely know you."

Juan's expression grew serious. "Marco and I have been friends for years. When he gets mixed up in this mess, I am one of the few persons he can reach out to for help."

Eve felt her throat tighten at the implication. "You mean...Marco is..."

"I'm not sure of the details," Juan said quickly. "But you can trust that I'll protect you both. No matter what."

Eve nodded, fresh tears stinging her eyes. "Thank you. Truly."

Juan managed a small smile. "For now, focus on Sofia. I'll have Mariela bring you some food shortly."

As he departed, Eve returned her attention to unpacking, though her mind whirled. What had Marco gotten himself into? And at what cost?

Soon, a soft knock came at the door. "Come in," Eve called out.

A young woman entered, carrying a tray laden with steaming dishes. "Good evening, I'm Mariela. Juan asked me to bring your dinner."

"Gracias," Eve murmured as the tray was set on the small table.

Mariela gave her a reassuring look. "If you need anything else, just ask."

Once she had gone, Sofia bounded over. "Mama, it smells so good! What is it?"

"Tamales, frijoles, and some kind of chicken dish," Eve replied, finally feeling her appetite return at the savory aromas.

They dug in, Sofia chattering all the while about her makeshift bedroom and plans to explore the grounds tomorrow. Eve did her best to appear calm and nurturing, but inside her heart was racing.

How long could they remain hidden here? And from whom? She felt woefully unprepared for life on the run. But for Sofia's sake, she had to be strong.

"Where are you from?" Sofia looked at Mariela as she observed how carefully she arranged things.

Mariela smiled warmly at Sofia. "I'm from a small town near Guadalajara. My family still lives there."

"Wow, that's far away!" Sofia's eyes grew wide with interest. "Do you miss them?"

"Very much," Mariela replied. "But Juan has been very kind to me. This is my home now."

Eve watched the exchange with a pang. Just a child, and already Sofia's life had been upended. What would become of them?

"Mariela," she spoke up. "I don't mean to pry, but...how did you come to be here? With Juan?"

The young woman's expression sobered. "My situation was not too different from yours, señora. I, too, needed protection."

Eve felt her breath catch. So Mariela understood the fear, the desperation.

"I won't ask you to share more," Eve said gently. "I'm just...grateful we've found some safety, however long it may last."

Mariela gave a nod. "Juan may seem gruff, but he's a good man. You're secure here." She paused, then added, "For now, focus on your daughter. The rest will work itself out."

"Mama, can I go outside and play tomorrow?" Sofia piped up.

"We'll see, mi amor," Eve stroked her hair. "It's getting late now. Time for bed."

As she ushered Sofia into the small bathroom to get ready, Eve couldn't shake Mariela's loaded words. For now. But what then? She had no idea what awaited them or how long they could truly remain hidden.

All she could do was cherish each moment with her daughter and have faith that somehow, maybe someday, a real sense of safety could be theirs once more.