“No.”
“I don’t expect you to forgive me tonight.”
Mauricio studied her.
“That’s a start.”
At dinner, Gabriel announced he wanted to become an architect, marine biologist, entrepreneur, and chef.
“You have time,” I told him.
“And I can help people.”
“That one you can start now.”
Hugo raised his glass.
“Mom.”
I looked at him.
“Thank you for not closing the door forever.”
“The door isn’t open the way it used to be.”
“I know.”
“It has boundaries.”
“I know.”
“And if anyone disrespects me again, I won’t wait years to speak.”
Carla lowered her eyes.
I added, “That includes everyone.”
Then reconsidered.
“Including me.”
Gabriel raised his sparkling cider.
“To boundaries.”
Everyone laughed.
After dinner, Carla found me near the kitchen.
“Have you forgiven me?”
“I’ve seen change.”
Her face fell slightly.
“I’m willing to keep watching.”
“That’s more than I expected.”
