The conversation began simply: the trip, their jobs, city traffic. Carmen listened carefully, more than she spoke. She didn’t comment on Ana’s appearance, her cooking skills, or when they planned to have children.

Ana kept waiting for tension to surface. It never did.

When Carlos stepped outside to grab the last bags, a brief silence filled the room. Ana’s heart began to race.

Carmen looked at her calmly. “Ana, I know this visit was postponed several times. I imagine that wasn’t accidental. I just want you to know—I’m not here to judge you.”