He didn't say anything. Just gave her one last look like he was trying to read her mind or maybe say something without words. Then he turned and went into the bathroom. Ortensia stood there for a moment, feeling the weight of what she just said.
Why did she say that? Was it anger? Fear? Or just tiredness from everything? She didn't know. But she knew she couldn't stay there. Slowly, she stood up and walked downstairs, her steps echoing softly on the marble floor.
When she got to the kitchen, her mother was already there, moving around with ease, chopping and stirring, making the space feel alive again. Ortensia took a deep breath, feeling a little lighter just seeing her mom like this.
"The maid is fast with the errand," Ortensia said, trying to sound casual.
Her mother turne
