Chapter 5 - The Line is Crossed
Natalia stood absolutely motionless on the stairs. Her mother, a proud, hardworking woman who had sacrificed everything for her daughter, did not cry. That stoic silence was the thing that broke Natalia’s heart the most. Doña Refugio slowly adjusted her shawl with shaking hands, swallowed hard, and attempted to stand up with the same apologetic, ashamed demeanor she used whenever she felt she was taking up too much space in someone else’s home.
Javier stood over her, breathing heavily, his chest puffed out as if he were the actual victim of the situation.
“Your mother will never set foot in this house again!” Javier snapped, pointing an aggressive finger at Natalia, who was finally descending the stairs.
Doña Graciela did absolutely nothing to reprimand her son. Jimena, Karla, and Mónica remained silent, their faces displaying a sickening sense of satisfaction. It was as if they believed someone had finally "taught this humble woman a lesson" for daring to touch their expensive belongings.
Natalia didn't scream. She didn't cry. She didn't push anyone or throw a hysterical fit. The fiery, passionate love she had once held for her husband instantly turned into a glacier. She walked calmly past her in-laws, stepping into the living room. She knelt beside her mother, gently taking Doña Refugio by the arms and helping her to her feet. She used the soft sleeve of her designer blouse to wipe a stray tear from her mother’s eye.
“I am so sorry, my daughter,” Doña Refugio whispered, bowing her head in deep shame. “I really didn't mean to cause any trouble.”
Natalia took her mother’s weathered face in both of her hands, forcing her to look up.
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“You didn't cause anything, Mom. You did absolutely nothing wrong.”
Then, Natalia slowly turned her head to face Javier. The air in the room seemed to drop ten degrees.
