For years he endured his parents’ insults to keep the family together—until his children’s tears showed his that even blood can betray

only

Emiliano’s eyes were full of tears, but he kept walking because he did not want to disobey. Sofía was red with humiliation. Mateo spotted me from across the room and dropped the cloth.

— Dad…

I crossed the hall without saying a word. I took the tray from Emiliano and removed his apron. Then I went to Sofía and took hers off. Mateo ran to me and I continue reading …