Emiliano didn't say anything.
He just clenched his fists.
But Patricia continued.
—Besides, I'm tired of those girls loving you so much. They are Duarte, they are not your village huerquillas.
Rosa swallowed.
—I don't want to take them away from anyone. I just don't like to see them cry.
Patricia let out another laugh.
—Oh, how noble. Neta das tenderness.
Then he approached the stairs and shouted:
—Daniela! Low!
The girl appeared at the break, with Martina behind.
"Come," Patricia ordered.
Daniela came down slowly.
Rosa wanted to get closer, but Patricia raised a finger.
—Not you.
Daniela stood in front of Patricia, rigid.
—Tell Rosa what we talked about.
The girl looked at the floor.
-I don't want to.
—Tell him.
Daniela began to cry silently.
—Miss Patricia…
—Tell him or I'll take away your sister's rabbit forever.
Martina let out a moan.
Rosa took a step.
—That's enough.
-Be quiet!
The scream echoed in the room.
Daniela closed her eyes and said in a broken voice:
—Rosa... don't hug us anymore when dad is away.
Rosa remained motionless.
—Why, my girl?
Patricia smiled.
Daniela did not look up.
—Because if you hug us... she says she's going to tell dad that you taught us to hate her.
Emiliano felt the floor move.
Martina ran down and stuck to Rosa.
—It's not true, Rosita. I do want you to hug me.
Rosa knelt down and hugged the two of them.
Patricia lost control.
—Let them go!
And this time he did raise his hand.
Before he could touch Rosa, the door to the living room opened.
Emiliano entered.
He didn't scream.
He didn't run.
He didn't make a fuss.
