Anésio held her close, feeling Maya's racing pulse. The anxiety in her eyes made him uneasy.
“Listen, I wasn't going to tell you, but I didn't think it was fair to hide it, Maya. Your brother is with Wikly.”
Maya nearly stumbled; the fear was so intense that she felt weak, her legs like jelly. Anésio held her firmly, afraid she might collapse.
“He's going to hurt him, Anésio.” said Maya, her voice trembling, and her eyes filled with tears.
“No, I don't think so. It's your mother's way of forcing you to leave me and be with him. Wikly offered me a house, a car, and sponsorship to leave you.”
Maya looked intently into Anésio's eyes, trying to find any doubt there, but all she saw was sincerity and determination.
“Anésio, you love me, you wouldn't accept it.” she said with conviction, h
