Jessica’s frustration boiled over as she stepped closer to Armando, her voice shaking with anger. “You keep saying you’re protecting us, but I don’t feel safe here, Armando! I feel like a caged animal, waiting for the next attack to happen. I’m done living like this.”
He narrowed his eyes, his jaw tightening as he cradled Alvaro in his arms. “What are you saying, Jessica?”
“I’m leaving.” Her voice was firm, and she folded her arms across her chest, meeting his cold, intense gaze. “I’m taking Alvaro, and we’re leaving. I’ll figure out a way to keep us safe—without you.”
Armando’s expression darkened, a dangerous storm brewing in his eyes. He set Alvaro down carefully in his playpen nearby, ensuring the boy was distracted before taking a slow, deliberate step toward her. His voice w
