I came back early and found my wife silently washing dishes; my own family had her hidden away as a servant, and when I heard them tell her, “You should be grateful to be here,” I knew everything was rotten.

I shook my head.
“No. This is disrespect.”

I untied Lucía’s apron gently. She trembled.

“Get your things,” I told her.

Vanessa stepped forward.
“Don’t cause a scene. Mom’s upstairs with important guests.”

I met her gaze.
“Good. I want everyone to hear.”