After Mom leaves, I finish packing, my mind still reeling from the confrontation with my father. Just as I'm about to walk out, a soft knock interrupts my thoughts. "Come in," I call, and Sarah, our longtime maid, steps inside.
"Good day, Miss," she greets me with a warm smile that immediately puts me at ease.
"Hello Sarah, what can I do for you?"
"Mr. Santiago is downstairs, asking for your permission to enter the house."
Confusion furrows my brow. "Why would he need my permission? It's his father's house, too."
Sarah's expression turns sympathetic. "He knows that, Miss. But he wants to ensure you don't leave once he comes in, like you have every other time he's tried to talk to you."
I sigh, remembering all the times Santiago has tried to talk to me, only for me to slip out before
