Chapter 65

The tears were falling like a torrent, impossible to stop. I pulled Clara’s arm to hug her again. Knowing that my daughter was well while knowing that Clara was also safe and sound was all I needed. It was the certainty I would cling to every time I was about to give up.

There, in that cold room, crying and hugging my little girl, I realized that Sofia was right: I could never accept the son of man.

The son of a traitor.

“Saints,” we heard over the loudspeaker. “They have no more time left.”

I hug Clara even tighter. In her ear, I tell her how proud I am of her, how much I care for her, and that I love her. I tell her a thousand times that she is a warrior, but she will always be my princess. I can’t stop telling her how much I love her.

“Saints,” repeat, “Time’s up.”

“I heard that, “I reply in annoyance. Clara and I clasp hands and look each other in the eyes.

“Go back to Colombia, go to the hacienda, and continue taking care of yourself as