Because I kept telling myself it would pass.
Roberto and Miriam arrived on a Saturday with three large suitcases and a politeness that felt rehearsed.
“We appreciate your hospitality,” Roberto said, smiling. “We hope we won’t be a burden.”
I almost believed him.
The House Begins to Change
The first few days were quiet. They stayed in the guest room. They didn’t go out much. They smiled. They thanked me. They acted like visitors.
Then slowly, the atmosphere shifted.
Miriam began commenting on the food.
“Natalia, don’t you think there’s too much salt?”
Roberto started adjusting the air conditioning.