The loud knocking at the door finally received an answer. Leslie stood frozen as Raymond and Mateo Lopez filled the doorway, their expressions firm, leaving no room for negotiation.

“It’s time to go home, Leslie,” Mateo said, his voice low but commanding.

She turned to Rafayel, hoping he would intervene, but he remained silent.

“Go,” Rafayel finally said, his tone flat—too flat.

A knot formed in Leslie’s stomach; she wanted to question him, to demand an explanation, but he had already turned away, picking up his car keys and walking out without another word.

As they drove home with Raymond and Mateo, Leslie couldn't shake the feeling that something was...