Full Shadow Love

The Silent Click

My bus was pulling into the terminal. I felt nervous coming to the big city. People were talking next to the vehicles. I heard one of them say. -I'm going to see my daughter again, she's a very brave girl. I got up from my seat when the bus stopped. I walked with my bag until I got off the vehicle, which was already starting to smell like sweat. I looked around. The terminal had white walls, escalators, and several shops. I came from a very small town. All of this was too modern and colorful for me. I walked inside. There were too many people. A pregnant woman waiting for the bus. An employee from a company wanting to get back home. I sighed for a moment. -Okay, Gabriel... you're in a new stage, independent, but with your parents' help. I walked around the place for a bit. There were a lot of homeless people looking for shelter. Too many street vendors trying to survive. A boy who was lying on some cardboard came up to me and stretched out his hand. -Can you give me some change? I'm saving up to buy something to eat. I reached into my pocket and gave him some loose change I had. He thanked me and started following me. I felt weird having the boy next to me. I asked. -Can I help you with something? He answered with a question. -Are you related to the girl who sells near the exit? I didn't understand. -What? He says. -I was asking because you're as pale as her. Me and my friends sit around watching her all day. Your sister's quite a show. I mentioned. -I don't have a sister, are you okay? He introduced himself erratically. -I'm Samuel, your future brother-in-law. You look a lot like that girl, so I figure you're her brother or something. I looked at him seriously. -Leave me alone. You're clearly drunk and I just want to go home. He gently grabbed my shoulder. I was about to defend myself, but I didn't sense any malice in his attitude. -At the terminal exit there's a girl your age who's smoking hot. Purple hair down to her shoulders, same color eyes, pale and gothic, with tattoos all over her body, thin and short. I recommend her, handsome. He moved away from me and went on his way. I started thinking about what he said. What would a girl so perfect be doing selling at a bus terminal? I walked around the place calmly. I was about to leave, but something stopped me. I saw that same girl. She was exactly as that man described her. She was wearing very seductive black clothing. My heart skipped a beat when I saw her. She was very attractive. I left my seriousness aside. I heard her selling her sweets to an old lady. Her voice was like an angel's. -Good morning, ma'am, I'm selling to support my daughter and pay the rent. I have homemade alfajores. The lady replied. -I don't want any, but thank you. -That's fine, have a good trip. She locked her gaze on me. I almost started drooling when I saw her, but I hid it well. She walked up to me. We were face to face. Suddenly, I felt a silent click inside my head. It seemed like she felt it too. I felt as if a silent lightning bolt had struck between us. Everything stopped. She tilted her head, as if remembering something. -Excuse me... do I know you from somewhere? Because I remember you from somewhere. I reply. -Uh... I don't think so, it's the first time I've seen a girl like you. She looked at me strangely. -Like me? -Yeah... A goth girl with that hair and pretty tattoos. She lowered her head. -I don't like my tattoos, but thanks for complimenting my hair. I mention. -I like how your eyes look with your contact lenses. She replies. -They're not contact lenses, I have Alexandria's syndrome. My daughter inherited it from me. Something clicked in my mind. -Daughter? She replies. -Of course, I'm a mother. She gripped her box of sweets tighter. -Never mind, I don't know why I'm talking to you about this. She paused briefly. -Do you want to buy something from me? I have alfajores and homemade cookies, with chocolate chips. She lowered her head again. -I didn't have many sales today. I replied. -Do you make them yourself? Give me three alfajores. She looked up and stared at me. -Three? Thank you so much. While we made the exchange, I asked her. -Do you always dress so nicely? She answered. -It's to persuade customers, plus I like dressing like this. It makes me feel elegant. -I get it, it looks really good on you... She blushed. -I like the three stars tattooed on the side of your neck. She extended her hand to me. -My name is Julieta Jazmin Ayat. -I'm Gabriel Pastor. I looked at the exit. -I think I have to go. I have classes later. -Then I won't take up any more of your time, I have to keep selling too. We stood looking at each other for a while. I looked at her claw tattoo on her neck, her dragon on her leg, the heart on her chest, and the flowers on her arms. She observed the three stars I had on the side of my neck. It was a supernatural connection, the result of that invisible lightning bolt that fell between us. It was strange... I left the terminal while looking back. What was that click I felt? I walked down the street staying close to people who seemed friendly. My mind only thought of that girl who was a young mother and worked as a street vendor. The feeling was incredible, as if we were both destined to meet. Unfortunately, that girl is the kind of person you only meet once in a lifetime. I didn't have the courage to ask for her number. I stopped in front of a store. The seller was a gray-haired man. He looked me up and down. -I know you, you're Gabriel, Sergeant Harry's son. I recognized him. -Mr. Heredia, how are you? I greeted him with a smile. -You were in the army with my father. He mentioned. -I was a lieutenant. Now I'm retired like your father, and I'm running my son's business because things are tough. -Yeah... I remember well. He paused. -I live here on this block. He put a hand on my shoulder. -Then you should come buy here often. The best sandwiches in Queens. -Give me one, to see if it's true. I haven't had a snack. He handed me one of his famous sandwiches. I tried it, and it tasted incredible. -You're right... the best sandwiches in Queens. He looked to the side and then leaned in to talk. -Are you coming from the terminal? Because there's always a really pretty girl your age selling there. She has a daughter who's in kindergarten all morning while she works. She used to sell in New York's plazas. I asked. -How do you know all that? Are you stalking her? He didn't take long to answer. -No, she lives on this same block and comes by to buy often. I don't know her story, but she's too young to have a kid and be working. -When she was close to me I felt an electric, silent click inside my head. Mr. Heredia smiled. -Looks like Cupid shot you with an arrow. She's all yours, handsome. Everyone always told me the same thing when they talked to me about her. I said goodbye to Mr. Heredia. Does she really live on the same block? What a coincidence...

Coincidence

I arrived at my new apartment with white and pink walls. I breathed in the air of the new environment. I was now almost independent. I lived alone. I spent a few minutes organizing my things, especially my clothes. I had too many. The studio apartment was a little claustrophobic, but I was comfortable. Finally, I left my computer on the desk. Everything was clean and in its place. I lay down on my bed for a moment. I put on my headphones to listen to music. I closed my eyes and everything seemed to have stopped. I opened my eyes again and heard a noise nearby. I got up quickly, thinking someone had entered my apartment even though I had locked it. But that wasn't it... I saw a little girl with long purple hair. She was leaning against the wall with her knees to her chest and her head down. She was crying and screaming non-stop. I slowly approached her and reached out my hand. -Hey, are you okay? She had some tattoos that looked very familiar to me and her belly was somewhat swollen. She was holding some very large scissors in her right hand. I quickly kicked the scissors away. I grabbed her by the shoulders and looked at her face. -Julieta? Everything went black and I woke up. It was all a dream. I put my hand on my head. Why did I have a dream like that? It seemed like something about her past, but I don't know anything about her. My stomach started to growl. I was very hungry. Suddenly, I heard someone talking in the next room. The walls were thin. I heard. -Calm down Ambar, we're going to the supermarket soon. I'll buy you your favorite desserts. I was curious to know who my neighbor was. She had a familiar voice. I took off my headphones and walked to the hallway. The handle moved and I heard that voice again. -Dear, we have to go. The cat will be fine. The door opened. I was surprised to see who it was. Julieta Jazmin Ayat She was wearing a white t-shirt, black sports shorts, and black sneakers. Her tattoos were much more noticeable and her pale skin shone in the sun. She was holding a little girl's hand. She looked at me with a mixture of fear and amazement. -Gabriel? I opened my eyes wide in surprise. -Julieta? We were silent for a moment. We spoke at the same time. -We're neighbors? She grabbed her daughter's hand. -Are you a stalker!? I raised my hands. -That's not it, but it must be a coincidence. Mr. Heredia told me you lived around here, but I didn't think you'd live next door to my apartment. -Mr. Heredia talked to you about me? I replied. -Yes, you're known as the friendly goth girl who sells homemade sweets. I know Mr. Heredia because he was in the army with my father. Julieta raised her head, trying to understand. -I see... You seem nice, but I don't trust you. It's too much of a coincidence. It's like you're a stalker. -Do you think if I were a stalker I'd rent an apartment next to yours? I'd be more discreet. She was silent for a moment. -It's very strange. -You're very distrustful and I respect that, but I'm not following you. Was your name Julieta Jazmin Ayat? -Yes... I looked at the girl next to her. -She must be your daughter. -Her name is Ambar. I nodded. -Ambar... I walked next to her after locking my apartment. -It was nice seeing you, but now I have to go to Mr. Heredia's supermarket to buy some things. She mentioned. -I have to go shopping too... I smiled. -Oh... great, we can talk on the way to get to know each other. Neighbors have to get along. She stepped back a few steps, but Ambar stepped forward. -Can the gentleman be my new friend? She looked at me trembling. I put my hand on her shoulder. -Hey, are you okay? You're sweating. She gently removed my hand from her shoulder. -I'm fine. -Don't worry, I'm not a bad person. We went down the elevator together. The girl mentions. -My mommy never trusts. I looked at the girl. -You're a very smart little girl. Julieta mentioned without looking at me. -I teach her and make her study. She's five years old and already has the habit of reading. I mention. -She has a good mother. -Thanks... We left the building and walked together down the sidewalk. I said to Julieta. -Do you study anything in the afternoons? She answers. -No, but I know about gastronomy and pastry. Short phrases. I understand. You don't know me. I saw that she was trying to keep her distance from me, but she distrusted the passersby even more. She was someone who didn't know where to hide. We arrived at Mr. Heredia's supermarket. He looked at us and smiled. -So now you two come together. The famous vendor and the karateka. Julieta looked at me. -Karateka? I replied. -Yes, I practice karate and kobudo. I'm a black belt in both disciplines. -How admirable. Ambar asked. -Can I learn Karate? I crouched down in front of her. -Yes... I can teach you someday. Mr. Heredia smiled and winked at me. I remembered that he told me to go for her like a gentleman. Julieta is a very pretty girl, but she's marked by something very deep. I saw it... I said to Julieta. -Let's buy what we need. -Sure... We walked around the place. I carried a lot of food and products. I was just starting to live alone. I stopped next to Julieta's cart. She was only carrying a small chicken, canned goods, and noodles. She took advantage of the offers a lot. She mentioned. -Everything goes up every week. It stresses me out. She asked. -How do you make it all work for you? I replied. -My parents pay for my things. -I see... so you don't know what it's like to not have a job and not make ends meet. I looked at my full cart, and hers almost empty. I asked. -Do you want me to buy you something else? She looked at me distrustfully. -Really? -Yes... it costs me nothing. Neighbors have to help each other out. I looked at Ambar. -You two can have something good for lunch today. Julieta guided me through the supermarket and we reached the meat counter. She pointed to a very expensive cut of meat. -I want that... -Put it in the cart. She obeyed and we went to pay. I asked. -What are you paying with? She replied. -Cash... I took out my wallet and gave her what she needed to buy that meat. She was the first to pay and took out her money. She counted it quickly. She grabbed her daughter to leave. -I'll wait for you outside the supermarket... I was next in line. Mr. Heredia grabbed me by the shoulder. -I saw on the cameras that you gave that girl money. -I... and no... I tried to justify myself. Mr. Heredia smiled. -I remember your father gave your mother money to buy her cookies in elementary school. From that day on they were together forever. I lowered my head. -In elementary school? How many things did you talk about with my father? -Maybe I know him better than you. He paused. -Julieta is a shy and distrustful girl, but don't waste time. -Why does everyone tell me that? I left with my shopping bags. They were a bit heavy, but I was used to it. I walked next to Julieta. She broke the awkward silence. -So you like learning Karate. It's a nice discipline. I wish I could learn to defend myself. I looked at her out of the corner of my eye. -I could teach you both. She blushed. -Gabriel, I couldn't pay you for the classes. -You could pay in another way. She moved away a little. -I'm a decent woman. -I didn't mean that. You know about cooking and baking. You could make me some free meals. I'm sure you could turn plain rice into a delicious dinner. She smiled after being scared for a long time. -Yes... it's true, everything I make turns out great. I asked. -Haven't you thought about working at a café or restaurant doing that? -I tried, but they don't want to hire me. They take people who are better qualified and have more experience. -Oh, right... that always happens. She asked me. -What do you study? -I study medicine at New York University. Her eyes widened. -So I have a doctor next to my room. That's great... -Why do you say that? -Ambar has panic attacks every day, she's also hyperactive. I looked at the girl. -It's dangerous for her to have that kind of attack, does she convulse? -Only once. I tried to take her to a doctor but they didn't see her because I didn't have money, who does that? She paused. -Not all of us have mommy and daddy to support us. I thought about how some people suffer too much while I get upset about not being able to decide what to wear. It doesn't mean my suffering doesn't matter, but she went through more things during her childhood. We both have a past we want to hide. She asked a sudden question. -Does a woman's past matter a lot to you? I replied. -Not at all... unless she's committed a very serious crime. I don't care what she did in her past relationships. What matters to me is how that person is with me now and what she wants for the future. She smiled. -To repay you for buying me all that meat, I'll invite you to lunch. -That would be great. We entered the building and went up in the elevator. The atmosphere was different. I asked. -You had told me you didn't like your tattoos, but I think they're great. She looked at me shyly. -Thanks, but they're part of another life I want to forget. -That's okay... I understand. Ambar looked up at me. -Mommy never talks about her tattoos. The elevator reached the fifth floor. Julieta took out her keys and opened her apartment. It was a small place like mine, but very well organized. Ambar entered first and grabbed one of her stuffed animals. A woman in a superhero suit, with a question mark logo. -She's Mystery, my favorite superhero. I saw a black cat hide in the room. Julieta let out a laugh. -That's my cat, Aurora. She's a bit antisocial. She turned to look at me. -Well... are you coming in? She made me sit down while she cooked the meat. I didn't have any conversation topics. I mentioned. -It's a nice day. We could talk in the hallway later while looking at the city. Julieta turned around. -Let's do it now. The meat will take a while to cook. We went out to the hallway and leaned on the railing. I asked without being too intrusive. -How does it feel to raise Ambar? She answered. -Ambar is my greatest treasure and the only thing I have. My parents are idiots, my friends were bad people, my grandparents are gone and I have no other family. I looked at the city. -I don't have anyone either. There was a loud silence. We said at the same time. -Maybe we should help each other out as neighbors. We smiled at each other. I felt that supernatural click again, and she experienced it too. I went in and ate with them. The atmosphere felt warm. After a long time I was starting to meet nice people. I saw Julieta laugh softly. She was calm listening to my anecdotes. I listened to hers with the same calm. The quiet ones always had the best stories to tell.

Debts

That night I had another strange dream... I was in the bathroom of a house and the atmosphere felt heavy. The purple-haired girl was in front of me. She was looking at herself in the mirror and touching her swollen eye. She was injured from a hard blow and her hair was messy. She wasn't dressed as a girl her age should be. I approached. -Hey, you need to put ice on that eye. A man's voice was heard. -Girl, you have another client. Hurry up and come quick. The girl didn't want to leave. A few minutes passed, until a group of thugs entered to take her away by force. I tried to stop them, but my body was intangible, as if I were a ghost watching from the darkness. -No... Don't take her away, she's just a girl. Everything went dark. I woke up with a start. I asked. -That girl... Suddenly, I heard screams coming from the apartment next door. -Calm down, Ambar, I'm here! I got dressed and went out immediately. Julieta opened the door and brought Ambar out to get some air. -Breathe! I asked, worried. -Is she having one of her panic attacks? Julieta looked at me. -Yes... help me calm her down. Little Ambar was clutching her chest. I sat on the floor next to her. -Ambar, we're here, take a deep breath. Julieta watched her daughter calm down. Little by little she stopped panicking. -She's better now, thank you, Gabriel. I asked. -What causes the panic attacks? -She's claustrophobic, and our apartment is too small, so sometimes I leave the door open all the time. She held her head. -My God, I'm a bad mother. She confesses. -I'm in debt to the building owner. She could throw us out on the street. I grabbed her shoulder. -You're not a bad mother. You found a solution and you're trying your best. Money doesn't make you a better or worse mother. She smiled. -Thanks, Gabriel. She confessed. -You know what? I had a very strange dream. A boy who got everything he wanted, except the attention of his parents who worked all day. She paused. -The dad was some kind of demanding military man, and the mom was an artist. -My parents are exactly that, retired military and art teacher. I confessed. -I constantly dream of a tattooed girl with purple hair, whom adults hurt a lot. We looked at each other for a moment in silence. She got uncomfortable and changed the subject. -When do we start with karate and self-defense? -Today in the afternoon... I understood that she didn't want to talk about it. Julieta was fragile as a crystal glass, and anything I said could break her. The building owner came up in the elevator. We both saw her arrive. She was an obese woman with messy hair. Without saying anything, she handed Julieta some papers. She looked at them carefully. -Debts? The building owner spoke in a loud, deep voice. -You owe me two months' rent. If you can't pay, I'll have to throw you out on the street and I don't care that you have a daughter. Julieta stood paralyzed. The idea of being a homeless person terrified her. I replied for her. -She'll pay you when she can... don't worry... The owner said. -Don't get involved. This is between her and me. I replied. -Don't talk to her rudely. She doesn't deserve to be treated like that. The woman said nothing more, just left. Julieta went to work and to drop Ambar off at kindergarten. I didn't have classes that day, so I decided to go to Mr. Heredia's supermarket to buy one of his sandwiches for breakfast. He welcomed me. -Hello, Gabriel, how's medicine going? I mentioned. -I haven't started in-person classes yet, but I've been reading about anatomy and it comes easy to me. He looked around. -How are things going with Julieta? I replied shyly. -Good, she invited me to eat at her house as thanks for giving her some money. -If a shy girl invites you to her house that quickly... I interrupted him. -Julieta is cute and sweet, but I don't know if I'd go out with her. She has a lot of responsibilities, an adult life, and I get everything handed to me. Mr. Heredia replied. -I'll tell you a story. Your father, before joining the military, was just an amateur boxer, and your mother was already an art teacher. She was older than your father and fell in love with him watching him fight. He paused. -Obviously, they dated and got to know each other a lot. I thought about that all afternoon. There were many coincidences in my life. Karate classes began in the building's courtyard that afternoon. I was wearing the karate gi I use for training. Julieta wore the same white t-shirt and black sports shorts. Ambar wore a pink t-shirt and dark long pants. The girl asked. -It's dirty here. I replied. -I know, but it's the only place I have to teach you. I can't take you to my master's dojo. Julieta stands up and looks at me fixedly with a slight melancholy. -I can train here, as long as I can learn to defend myself from the harassers in the plaza and the terminal. I replied. -Good, it's time to see the basic punches. I threw three punches into the air. To the face, to the chest, and to the stomach. They imitated me. Ambar was the most uncoordinated, but that was normal for a five-year-old girl. I corrected both of them. -Always keep your guard at rib height and behind everything, so it's not visible. Hide it to throw the next punch with more force. I looked at Ambar. -Make a tight fist, and use your thumb to press down on your fingers. They started throwing punches into the air. I corrected their posture. Julieta learned quickly, and her daughter Ambar did very well despite her young age. Then I moved on to blocks. Face block, chest block, and downward block. They imitated me perfectly. I only had to correct minor things. I moved on to kicks. Front kick and roundhouse kick. They both did it wrong. I explained to them. -To do it right, you have to lift your knee and then extend it with force. They did it that way and improved considerably. They repeated everything for a whole hour, until it started to get dark. I stood in front of both of them. -Very good, I'm also going to teach you some boxing. You have to change your guard, dodge punches, duck, move around, and all that. I taught them all that for half an hour. I mentioned. -We're going to spar. I'll be the aggressor, but I'll explain what you need to improve as we go. We started when I gave the order. The first one to fight me was Julieta. She threw soft, clumsy punches. She didn't want to hurt me. I advanced towards her and gently threw her to the ground. -In a friendly spar like this you should throw quick punches to score points and avoid being grabbed. Strength is for katas and real combat. She got up again. I smiled. -She's already learned... She ran towards me and blocked all my punches. She shouted and threw a flurry of punches at my face. I covered up with my guard and deflected each one with blocks. One punch got through and hit me in the nose. Julieta got worried. -Are you okay? I mentioned. -You learn fast... you managed to hit a black belt. She smiled, knowing she was making progress. Ambar stood up. -It's my turn! I was gentler with the little girl, but she punched well. I changed clothes after training. Julieta knocked on my door and I opened it quickly. She had a small cream and strawberry cake. -Please accept this little cake as payment. I accepted it gladly. -Thank you very much, I'm sure it tastes excellent. She looked at the floor. -Hey, what kind of dream did you have? I decided to confess. -I dreamed of a girl who was looking at herself in her bathroom mirror, horrified and with a swollen eye. She had tattoos, purple hair and eyes. I paused. -A man told her she had clients waiting. It seemed like some kind of exploitation. Julieta was horrified and left quickly. -I have to go... Her face seemed lost. Could that silent click have made me see something more? A part of her life that she hides. I thought about that all night. Was Julieta a victim of something horrible?

Souls United

Several weeks passed. I didn't have those dreams again. Sometimes I helped Julieta carry the grocery bags. I became very helpful to her. I felt a protective instinct. Julieta was more curt, but we talked when we left the building together in the morning. I went to my classes, she went to sell her pastries and sweets. She told me an anecdote. When she was selling at the New York terminal, everything seemed calm. A man had arrived and was looking her up and down. He approached Julieta, who was wearing her short gothic clothes. He ran his hand over her leg. Julieta got scared and threw a spinning kick to his face. The man's nose started bleeding. -You fucking bitch! He lunged at her with erratic punches, but she threw straight punches and firm blocks. In no time, the man ended up on the ground, with his nose and lip bleeding. He was just a junkie, but taking down a guy bigger than her was quite a feat. The police took him away quickly. We smiled at the same time. Her training was paying off. She went to work and I went straight to the university. I waited at the bus stop for a moment. I breathed in the fresh New York air. At one point, I looked to my side. I noticed there was a psychic's shop. I was curious. I checked an app that told me where the bus was. It was quite far. I walked in and entered the psychic's shop. A blonde man with curly hair welcomed me with a smile. -Welcome, I'm Patricio, how can I help you? I replied. -Patricio, I've come to ask you a quick question about something I'm wondering about? He answered firmly. -Consultations about spirit or magic topics cost eighty dollars, but for first-time customers I discount them to fifty. I paid him quickly and we sat facing each other. I thought. -Spirit or magic topics? Is he a party magician? He looked at me curiously. -I sense you're very worried. Not just about missing your bus, but about someone you know. -How do you know that? He winked. -I've worked at several parties. I asked. -Is it possible for me to dream about someone else's memories? He looked curious. -Be more specific. -My name is Gabriel, and I've been having dreams about a girl who suffers abuse, and I think it might be related to my neighbor's past. I'm worried. He smiled. -The famous silent click or invisible lightning bolt. -Yes... what is that? He answers. -It's a phenomenon where one person's soul desperately asks for help from another. It's a kind of curse. -Curse? He stood up and walked around his office. -It's a constant torment. If they're emotionally close, the dreams will continue. I replied. -She's more distant now and I haven't had those dreams again. -They're not emotionally close... He paused. -She's desperately asking you for help, Gabriel. She doesn't show it, but she needs someone's company. He looked at me fixedly. -You just have to keep in mind that if you're there for her, the nightmares will continue. Have you ever heard the term joining souls in holy matrimony? It's real. I replied. -But I don't plan on marrying her. He pointed at me with his finger. -I'm just explaining what could happen. If they ever become a couple, you'll both have nightmares about each other's past. He paused. -You must decide, do you walk away to stop having these nightmares or do you keep suffering for her? I fell silent and left the shop. The bus arrived at the stop just in time. I arrived at the university shortly. The atmosphere felt calm and full of life. I would be distracted by something other than Julieta and those horrible dreams. In no time, I entered and left my class. I loved anatomy and sometimes I drew it. I loved drawing naked bodies. It was a secret of mine. I sat on a bench to practice anatomy, but since others were watching, I started drawing them with clothes on. I thought about what Patricio said. Soul connection? Souls desperately asking for help? I thought he would say something about a shared destiny, but it's something much darker. I returned to the building. I went to the laundry room where some of my other neighbors were washing their clothes. I put my things in the washing machine. Meanwhile, I looked at my neighbors. Each one had previously appeared in my social media suggestions. I had a lot on my mind. University and my relationships. I was about to open my apartment, but something stopped me. Julieta came out of hers quickly with a serious and worried expression. She walked up to me. -I had a very strange dream this morning. I didn't dare tell you. I asked. -What did you dream about? -I dreamed that you were running away from a boy who had a rope tied around his neck. My heart jumped when I heard that last description. Is my soul asking Julieta for help too? She said. -I felt this might be related to you. I don't know how to explain it, but I always see you in my dreams being ignored by your parents, and now I have this nightmare where this boy is chasing you. It's strange. I confessed. -Many years ago, I was part of a group of friends who bullied a boy. That kid ended up taking his own life and it marked me quite a bit. I paused. -I'm sorry you have to hear this. Since that day I wanted to be a protective figure, but I can't stop remembering the times when I attacked others and caused a death. Julieta looked at me fixedly. She touched my cheek. -Easy... that's your past and I understand it. When we're young our heads are elsewhere. She paused. -I also suffer from something in my past, but I dare not tell it. I replied. -You can tell me. She lowered her gaze. -I still don't feel like I can tell you that. -Julieta, I dreamed about it. The adults making your life impossible. She turned around. -No... then I don't want you to think about me anymore. I don't want you to keep having those dreams. I took her shoulder. -Is your soul asking for help? She pulled away and went back with Ambar to her room. I stood in that dark hallway. Julieta distrusted me a lot, even though I was her karate teacher and her neighbor.

Vision Of The Future

I went back to Mr. Heredia's supermarket. He looked at me as if I were a soldier. -Gabriel, how are things going with your friend? I replied. -A little bad... we both dream about each other and that's why she wants to pull away. The man almost spat out the water he was drinking when he heard that. -You dream about each other? That's good. Is it that kind of dream? -No... nothing sexual or weird. I dream about her past, but she didn't tell me. It's like our souls are connected. Mr. Heredia seemed to understand. -I see... retrocognition. It's a superpower. Does that mean you're a superhero? -How do you know so much about that? He takes another sip of his water. -I watch a lot of fiction series. There was a movie about a man who saw the tragedies that would befall his beloved and sought to prevent them. Are you kidding me? -No... I'm not kidding. I can really see it. Mr. Heredia looks around and then looks at me. -I see... If that only happens with her, it must be a sign that you have to intervene. You have to be her hero. That sounds very romantic. I raised my voice a little. -I have a terrible past, Mr. Heredia. I'm not a hero, because of me someone died. I paused. -I'm not the one who gets the girl. I was a bully. Heredia laughed. -A redeemed superhero. That's what women like most. They don't want a perfect hero. That's boring. He paused while attending to someone else. -I don't know if you're messing with me or if it's true, but if you're being sincere, you have to do the right thing. He looked at me fixedly. -Do you know the terrible past of that girl? Help her and do the right thing. Show that you're not the same monster from the past. Who would have thought that a retired military man obsessed with superheroes would help me. He took out one of his famous sandwiches. The best sandwiches in Queens for you, but this one's on the house. I took it and said goodbye. I returned to the building because I didn't have classes that day. I couldn't make other friends at the faculty. I was very shy. Only one person manages to make me talk. Julieta Jazmin Ayat. It was Saturday, and she was in the hallway of the fifth floor, sitting with her knees to her chest. I worried about her. -What happened? She answered somewhat depressed. -I paid part of the rent, but without that money I can't buy much food. So Ambar has breakfast and I don't. She paused. -I prefer that she eats. That's what good mothers do. I crouched in front of her and cut a piece of my sandwich. -You need energy for the rest of the day. I extended my hand. -Share? She smiled and took the piece of food. -Thanks... We ate sitting in the hallway. Ambar came out into the hallway. -Mommy, I'm done with breakfast. Julieta stood up. -Good, today you're going to come with me to sell sweets. I have to be out all day selling to recover the money I lost. Before she left, I gently held her arm. She turned to look at me. I answered her. -Julieta... about the dreams, you don't have to hide your past. There was a silence. -Besides, you can tell me whatever you want and I'll help you, as a good neighbor. She smiled. -I know you're good, I have a lot to talk to someone about, but give me time. I'm still processing it. We greeted each other by shaking hands. The atmosphere felt warm. Suddenly, I had a kind of vision. I was bleeding on the floor. I wasn't breathing. Julieta was being separated from Ambar by force by some mysterious figures. They were bleeding from their nose and mouth. I felt the scream as if it were real. -Ambar! -Mommy! Everything went black. Julieta was dancing in provocative clothing while crying. Some thugs were threatening her from afar, showing her guns. Darkness consumed everything. Out of nowhere, I returned to reality. It was as if time had paused. Julieta said goodbye and left with Ambar to work. I stood petrified in that hallway. I only heard the sound of the black cat in Julieta's apartment. That vision came when I took her hand. I didn't see the past... I saw the future. Without thinking, I returned to the shop of that psychic named Patricio. I entered desperately. The man was sitting counting money. I spoke to him loudly. -Sir, I saw more things. Serious things. Patricio snapped his fingers. -Eighty dollars. -It's urgent. -I don't give consultations without payment. I didn't waste time, and I gave him eighty dollars. He asked. -What brings you here again? I replied. -I had a kind of vision. I saw the girl and her daughter being kidnapped. I was dead. He smiled. -I'll explain one thing to you, boy. He paused. -Some traditions consider the soul as consciousness, energy, or a vital principle capable of perceiving beyond physical time. The soul is capable of anticipating possible futures or other realities. I asked. -So I could see the future? -Perhaps, because it could also be a possible future if you stay close to that girl. That's why you have to stay away. The curse and that future could come. He paused. -Do yourself a favor and stay as far away as possible. -But I find her attractive and I want to get to know her. Patricio replied. -I'm just a consultant. If you want to keep that future and the curse as far away as possible, stay away from the girl and her daughter. I returned to the building thinking about that. I just lay down on my bed listening to music. I didn't feel like doing karate that day. At night I was cleaning the place, until I saw Julieta return with Ambar sleeping in her arms. I walked over to her. -Julieta... how were sales? She smiled. -Good... I got enough to pay the rest of the rent and to buy food, but I'm tired. She carried the girl to sleep, and I went in behind her. She turned to look at me. I was the first to speak. -Hey... Julieta. I paused. She was intrigued by what I was going to say. Finally, I asked. -Do you want to go out with me to an ice cream parlor when you're free? It could also be a café, a restaurant, or something quiet. She lifted her head and smiled. -You've been helping me all these days, and you also taught me to defend myself in exchange for some cakes. She took a long pause while thinking. -I accept, but we have to take Ambar, I have no one to watch her. -Great, don't worry about her. We're both accomplices. We looked at each other for a moment. She mentioned. -You're cute... I repeated a phrase in my mind. I won't walk away... I'll change fate.

First Date

A day passed and the afternoon in New York City was calm. It was the first time Julieta and I were going out. I was nervous. It wasn't easy to go out with a woman. That's what my father used to say. Now it's more urgent, because I liked Julieta and I knew she was in danger. I knew I should prioritize her well-being, but I was still somewhat skeptical thinking about that psychic's explanation. Besides, I had paid him for his explanation. I regretted it. I shouldn't have believed him. I was outside my apartment, leaning against the wall while looking at the big city. I heard the sound of a door opening. Julieta came out of her apartment in a long black dress with transparent sleeves and gothic boots. She approached with a smile and asked me. -Are we going out? I replied. -Of course... you look good. Ambar wore long, dark clothing. -Where are we going, Mommy? She answered her. -We're going to a café with Mr. Gabriel. We went down the building and walked towards the nearest ice cream parlor. On the way, she told me something strong. -Ambar's classmates bully her at kindergarten. I was very surprised. -What? That can't be, what kind of education did they have? Julieta interrupted me. -It's not just that, Gabriel. Those children's parents think I... She paused. -They think I work as a prostitute. I froze at what she said. She kept talking. -I'm just a girl who sells alfajores on the street since I was thirteen to support my little daughter. I never willingly got into that. Willingly? She shed just one tear. -I know what you're thinking, and yes, you saw it in your dreams. They forced me to do those kinds of things in my childhood. She lowered her head and wiped her teary eyes. -I'm sorry... She paused. -Do I look like a whore? I replied. -Of course not, you're a pretty girl, well dressed and hardworking. Julieta stood up straight and kept walking beside me. She spoke in a softer voice. -Those parents say I look like a whore because of my clothes, and the children hear that. Then they go to kindergarten and repeat what their parents say. That's why Ambar had panic attacks when we had the door open. Ambar looked at her. -I didn't want to tell you, Mommy. I didn't know there were people who did those things. Julieta smiled at her and then looked back at me. -She's in a daycare where the children of upper-middle-class people go. I was able to send her there thanks to a special program. I listened to everything she said. -I don't understand how there are people who talk about others like that. Julieta changed the subject. -My own parents, they were the ones who forced me to do those things. I'm not ready to tell all of this. I feel like I'm going to faint. We didn't touch on the subject again that day. We arrived at the nearest café. Julieta was looking at the pastries in the display case. -I make better pastries. I replied. -It's always good to try other things. Since it's our first outing together, I'll pay for everything. -Really? Thanks. We sat at one of the outside tables. We ordered a strawberry cake and a coffee each. She enjoyed it. It made me happy to see them both so happy. She broke the silence. -Sometimes I hear you. The walls are very thin. I asked. -How does it feel to be my neighbor and hear each other through the walls? She answers. -It feels strange. It's like we live together. There's no privacy. She paused to eat. -Sometimes I think about looking for another building, but I can't afford it. I think of more questions. -How are sales going? -Lately people are buying more sweets from me than before. I smiled. -What about your cat, Aurora? She let out a laugh. -She's always doing crazy things with us, and the best part is she doesn't use her claws. She's sweet and soft. Ambar mentions. -Aurora is mine. Julieta strokes her head. -Obviously she's yours, I adopted her from the street for you. She asked. -How's medicine going? I replied. -Good, anatomy is my favorite subject. She nodded. I asked. -I like the clothes you choose every day. I don't see you as something weird, but as someone very elegant and hardworking. She straightened up. -Thanks, I always try to look my best, even when I have to go out and do something simple. I asked the last question. -How do you feel training with me? She answered very calmly. -Like home... a real home. I was very happy to hear that. A girl was telling me she felt at home with me. Definitely, Julieta was the kind of girl I would like as a girlfriend. We kept talking until we finished our meal. I paid for everything. On the way back to the building, Julieta started making jokes. She laughed along with me. Her hand brushed mine until she finally held it. I looked at her and she smiled. It looked like a movie scene. We arrived at the building and went up in the elevator holding hands. We stopped in front of our apartments. She opened the door to hers. -Ambar, go inside for a moment. She came up to me and gently took both of my hands. -I had a great time at the café. You're a very good guy. She paused. -I know we both have a past, but we have to overcome it to have a better future together. I was surprised by the last part. -A future together? Without saying anything else, she slowly approached me while squeezing my hands. She gave me a deep kiss. My heart was beating faster, but I closed my eyes and let myself go. We separated. A strand of saliva hung between our lips. She whispered in my ear. -You're my first boyfriend. Now you're going to be only mine, Gabriel. We hugged. I understood what Julieta was thinking. Finally a healthy relationship. Ambar witnessed everything. -Is Mr. Gabriel going to be my new dad? Julieta blushed. -Ambar! I answered. -No problem, Julieta. I want to be your partner too. We looked at each other. -Do you want to come over for dinner later? I replied. -I'd love to. I'm going to study now, but I'll see you later at dinner time. We said. -See you later, Juli. -See you later, Gabi.

Ghosts Of The Past

The next morning, I went to Mr. Heredia's supermarket. The creator of the best sandwiches in New York and my personal advisor. I entered his shop quickly. He smiled when he saw me. -How's your girl? I looked confused. -My girl? Do you know we're already a couple? -You're a couple? Congratulations, Gabi. He took my hand to congratulate me. -I knew that girl was for you. I nodded and decided to change the subject. -I heard that you yourself make the best sandwiches in Queens. He replied, wagging his finger. -No... it's a secret, but your girlfriend Julieta makes them in exchange for me paying her some money for the rent. -Really? -And that's how well it went for me... the best sandwiches in Queens. Maybe she doesn't mention it to keep people away from her past. Mr. Heredia's sandwiches are a sensation for tourists. It would be logical that, if Julieta wants to stay away from her past, she wouldn't work on something that gives her so much fame. They could find her... On the way back I thought about the vision I had. I was dead and Julieta was being separated from Ambar by some thugs. It was like seeing it in third person, as if it were a nightmare. I arrived at the building and walked past Julieta's apartment. I was about to knock on the door. I grabbed my head and the images came to me. I was in some kind of perverse nightclub where everyone was groping each other. It seemed like an exploitation ring. I was shot in the chest in front of everyone, but they didn't pay much attention, as if it were something that happens every day. Julieta was wearing a provocative maid uniform and black lingerie. She was a victim. She hugged her daughter, but some men in suits separated them. They said horrible things about Ambar. -She's going to end up like her mother. Everything turned black. I returned to reality shortly after. Julieta opened the door with a smile, and jumped to hug me. -Thanks for being there for me... I returned the hug. She mentioned. -I dreamed that the boy you used to bully was chasing you. It was disturbing. I replied. -Today I dreamed about your past and your screams. Are you going to tell me everything today? -Everything... We separated and held hands. Ambar came out and hugged me. -Hello, Dad. She called me that affectionately, but it didn't bother me. That night, she went out with me to a restaurant. Julieta wore a black top, a matching skirt, gothic boots up to her knees, and transparent sleeves. Ambar wore black urban clothing, with a pink jacket. I wore my casual clothes, white and black. I didn't have my formal clothes. I had left them at my parents' house. We asked for a table on the side and ordered a pizza. She was smiling. She was divine and ethereal. -Guess what... I got a job as a cook at the café we went to on our first date. -I congratulate you, really. You're excellent at cooking everything. I asked. -How do you see yourself in ten years? I see myself as a doctor, with a sweet wife, a beautiful daughter, a dog, and then in a small town. She followed what I was saying. -I want the same thing, a small town where no one knows us. We were very excited. I felt like everything was going too fast. We had only been dating for two days. Julieta took a slice of pizza and started eating. -Would you like us to rent an apartment together before that? I replied. -Sure, a bigger one. I asked. -What kind of life do you want to give Ambar? -I want her to be better than me and she is. I told you she has the habit of reading and studying. Ambar replied while eating. -I'm five years old and I know how to add and subtract. Julieta smiles at her. -She's getting ahead of what she'll see in elementary school. With the new job I'll be able to send her to a good elementary school. When we finished eating, I looked at her fixedly. -I think it's time to talk about the past... Julieta got serious and nodded. She saw some arcade machines. She gave Ambar a coin to insert into the video game. -Ambar, go play around the place. We have to talk. The girl ran to the side and started walking around the restaurant, looking at the arcade machines. We were left alone. First she asked. -You told me the past doesn't matter. I answered. -It doesn't matter, unless you've been a monster. Julieta started talking. -Before I turned thirteen, I lived with my grandmother, since my parents were always traveling. I didn't know why, but they went everywhere. I kept listening carefully. She smiled remembering her grandmother. -She taught me how to cook everything from the age of five, the same thing I'm doing with Ambar. She paused. -Unfortunately, my parents came to get me. They said they wanted me to live with them. It was a lie, I discovered that they were involved in exploitation in a bad way. I was a victim. Tears began to run down her face. I asked. -Express yourself as much as you can. She continued while trying to wipe away her tears. -There were some regular clients, I can tell you their names and professions. Paulo Benetti, a bodybuilder, Tadeo Martinez, a tattoo artist, he gave me these horrible tattoos to experiment. She paused. -The most dangerous of all, Angel Brown, a US senator. My tormentors were three. I asked, keeping my calm, hiding my fear. -Why didn't you report them to the police? -Do you think someone like Angel Brown falls by reporting him to the police? They destroy evidence, bribe, threaten, and manipulate the media. -Julieta... that can't stay like that. There must be more girls suffering that. I paused. -How did you escape? She replied. -Paulo choked me so hard I ended up dying. -He ended up killing you? -Yes, it seems my heart stopped beating. They threw me in a vacant lot outside Washington like garbage. After that, my heart started beating again as if God gave me a second chance. She grabbed a napkin to wipe her face. -I overcame death and made it to New York by hitchhiking. I said I had no parents and was an orphan so they wouldn't look for my parents. Do you believe me after all the supernatural things we're experiencing? I confessed. -I believe you, Julieta... I paused. -I have visions where I see you being separated from Ambar while they shoot me. She stood up abruptly, drawing the attention of other people. -It can't be... are they going to find me!? I grabbed her by the shoulders and moved closer. -Julieta, calm down. I'm not going to let anything happen to you. -It's that you don't understand, Brown is evil and manipulation incarnate. I don't know if we should continue with this, it's very dangerous for you. Take me to the apartment. I paid the bill with a transfer. Julieta turned around. -Ambar, we have to go. The little girl ran and took her mother's hand. We returned to the building and went up in the elevator. I asked. -Are we still together? She lowered her head. -I couldn't separate from you. I'm very excited and in love with you. Ambar hugged me. -I want my dad. Julieta smiled. -I couldn't let you go... sorry if you thought we were going to separate, you're good for Ambar. -Don't worry... She asked. -Will you be there to protect us if they come looking for me again? -I'll tear them apart. We went to our rooms and said goodbye. I couldn't sleep thinking about Julieta's devastating story. Suddenly, I heard a scream coming from their apartment. -Ambar, hide in the closet! I thought they had come looking for her. I went and used a key Julieta had given me in case of emergencies to enter her room. I entered and what I saw was terrifying. A ghost made of black smoke was flying around her. Julieta was trying to hit it with a bat, but it was untouchable. When it approached me, I saw the image of Angel Brown form through the smoke. Then it turned into Tadeo, into Paulo, into her parents, and then back into Brown. Julieta screamed. -I was having nightmares about those people, and in the end that thing appeared! The black smoke lifted me easily and threw me against the ceiling. Before I fell, it grabbed me again by the leg and threw me against the table, breaking it. My head hit the kitchen. I screamed. -Julieta, you have to face your fear! The being grabbed me by the leg again and was about to throw me over the hallway railing. Julieta backed into a corner and cleared her mind. The ghost looked at her and screamed her name. -Julieta! She paid no attention to it. The spirit mentioned her nickname. -My little squirrel. Julieta paid no attention, and left her fear behind. It was about to throw me over the railing, but I was left hanging from the edge. The ghost screamed in her face, but she still didn't pay attention. The ghost disappeared in front of her. Julieta opened her eyes and saw me trying to climb up. -Gabriel! She took my hand and helped me up to the hallway. We hugged. I asked while gasping. -What was that? She replied. -Guilt... -It wasn't your fault, you were a victim. She asked. -Why do victims always have the guilt? I sighed. I didn't have an answer. Ambar came out of the closet. -Mom, Dad, are you okay? She hugged us. The neighbors came out when they heard the screams. They saw the three of us hugging. We couldn't say a ghost had come. So we said it was a thief who escaped by climbing.

Promise

Julieta and I stayed hugging in the same bed, while Ambar slept in another. We weren't doing anything weird, just hugging. We watched over each other so the other wouldn't have nightmares. Julieta asked. -Do you think there's a multiverse? She paused. -Maybe there's a world where I couldn't escape and where I didn't have my daughter. What if in this world I'm going to go back to that place and she ends up like me? I kissed her forehead, even though I couldn't answer. -Just focus on the present and the future you want... She asked. -Why didn't I die that day? I replied. -It wasn't your time. Maybe your destiny was to be with me. -Destiny... it's a beautiful superpower. We fell asleep together. We had a strange dream and Julieta was there. We were in a black, dark space, full of doors. I looked around confused. I asked. -Where are we? I heard Julieta's screams coming from each of the doors. She said with her head down. -My death and my torture. She paused to sigh. -Do you want to see? She walked to one of the doors. It had a sign with the date April 16, 2025, five years ago. She hesitated for a moment, but in the end she opened the door. She saw herself crying in a public bathroom. She was wearing homeless clothes and her belly was swollen. She had some scissors in her hand. -I don't want to have this baby!... She raised the scissors towards her stomach, ready to end it all. Juli and I stood watching. Little Julieta dropped the scissors. -I can't... I can't... Julieta closes the door and we return to the dark space. -At that time I didn't want to have Ambar, but she became the only thing I had after a while and I grew very fond of her. She paused. -I lied to you about something. I didn't finish high school. I want Ambar to have the life I didn't have. That's why I dropped the scissors. I mentioned. -I understand you... Julieta, you have to try to accuse those who hurt you. -Are you crazy? Do you think other girls haven't tried? -It's the only way to beat them. In my vision they are too many and they have guns. We need help from the entire American people. There are good judges and prosecutors. Julieta heard more screams behind other doors. -I don't know... -Julieta, it could be your best chance to make them pay. She turned around and became frustrated. -And then what happens? They get a minimum sentence and are out in a few years? -He won't escape, I promise you. Everything went black. We woke up together. I looked into her eyes. -Julieta, this could be your chance to put him in jail. She replies. -Okay... I'll speak up and report. If something bad happens, I'll hate you for the rest of my life. -That's a fair deal... I used my cell phone as a camera. She sat on the edge of the bed. I asked. -Do you want Ambar to leave the room while you record this for the internet? She mentions. -No... she has to hear it. She has to know where I come from. I didn't waste time and started recording. Julieta spoke. ... -Hello... I'm Julieta Jazmin Ayat, I'm eighteen years old, I didn't finish high school and I'm the mother of a five-year-old girl. Today I come to tell something that I've been keeping quiet for years for fear of dying or that my daughter will go through the same thing I went through. She paused and smiled remembering someone. -From the age of five I lived with my grandmother. She taught me how to cook. She taught me how to make alfajores, cookies, everything I now sell to survive. My grandmother was the only good thing I had. My parents were almost never around. They said they traveled for work. I believed it was true. She remembered that heartbreaking moment. -When I was almost thirteen, they came back. They said they were taking me to live with them, that we were finally going to be a family. It was a lie. They didn't work in anything legal. They were part of an exploitation ring. They handed me over to some men. They used me. They sold me. She remembered those men. -I can name three perpetrators, Paulo Benetti, a bodybuilder, Tadeo Martinez, a tattoo artist who left these marks on my body, and Angel Brown, a senator from our country who runs the exploitation ring. She remembered when they threw her away like garbage. -They did things to me that no girl should ever experience. They treated me like I wasn't a person. They forced me to smile, to be quiet, to obey. When I tried to resist, Paulo grabbed me by the neck so hard that my heart stopped. They threw me in a vacant lot outside Washington like garbage. They thought I was dead. I managed to come back to life thanks to God. She remembered the moment she picked up the scissors and started crying. -I became a homeless orphan and when I found out I was pregnant, I had a moment of weakness. I was about to do something terrible. I had scissors in my hand. I was broken. But I couldn't. I dropped the scissors. I decided to keep her. Ambar became the only thing that kept me alive. She looked at the camera. -Today I'm recording this because I don't want to be silent anymore. Because there are more girls. Because there are parents who hand over their own daughters. Because there are politicians, rich men, people with power who think they're untouchable. Because there are grandparents, uncles, neighbors, "family friends" who are monsters with the face of decent people. We must not remain silent anymore. I cut the recording. -Perfect, it's going straight to social media. I know one that goes viral in seconds. Julieta's video was uploaded at three in the morning. I uploaded it. My hands trembled as I pressed "publish". By six it already had over two hundred thousand views. By nine, a million. By noon the national news was showing it over and over again. The name Angel Brown appeared everywhere. Paulo Benetti. Tadeo Martínez. People started searching. In less than a day, three more women came forward. One had been in the same house in Washington. Another recognized Tadeo's tattoos. Another remembered Paulo's voice. The federal prosecutor's office couldn't look away. They opened an investigation the same day. Julieta's testimony was too precise: dates, places, names, the vacant lot outside Washington, the cardiac arrest. It wasn't a made-up story. It was a lead. They searched hospitals in Virginia and Maryland. They found the record of a "Jane Doe" about thirteen or fourteen years old, without documents, without family, with strangulation marks and a cardiac arrest. She had been discharged days later and no one claimed her. The description matched. The date matched. The place matched. That orphan that no one looked for was her. Then came the tattoos. They raided Tadeo Martínez's studio. In his internal files there were photos of sessions with minors. Julieta was in several. Some had dates. Some had her real name written on the back. Paulo was easier. He had a record and a pattern of cash payments to shell accounts. When they arrested him, they found a box with broken necklaces in his apartment. One had blood residue from the same group as Julieta's. Angel Brown was the most complicated. A senator doesn't fall overnight. But the video was already impossible to delete. The pressure was brutal. Transfers to shell companies appeared. Deleted messages that a forensic expert recovered. And worst of all: one of the new witnesses had an audio where Brown's voice was heard talking about "the little squirrel" and how they had to get rid of her if she became a problem. That sentence finished him off. Julieta's parents also fell. They were living under false names in another state. They tried to escape. They were caught near the border with Mexico. In their house there were documents, old photos of her, and payment records that linked them directly to the network. In less than three weeks, the three men and the two parents were under federal arrest. Paulo and Tadeo without bail. Brown asked for bail and the judge denied it. Julieta's parents also didn't get out. The case became one of the biggest trafficking cases with an elected official in years. Other victims began to appear. Some had been silent for decades. Julieta's testimony was the first stone. The rest built itself. I didn't go out to celebrate. I stayed in the apartment, sitting on the edge of the bed, while Julieta hugged Ambar and I read the news in a low voice. For the first time, the monsters had a name, a face, and a case number. And they could no longer reach her. They were all arrested with the maximum sentence... Julieta just hugged me, kissed me, and thanked me. -Thanks, love... A month later. I went back to Mr. Heredia's supermarket. He looked at me proudly. -How's my superhero? He shook my hand. -You saved many lives with that video. I thanked him. -Today we're moving with Julieta and Ambar to a bigger apartment in Brooklyn. -Really? I replied. -Yes, she got a job at a large, prestigious café, so we can afford it. -I congratulate you. You'll be missed here in Queens. I bought quickly and said goodbye to the man. We arrived with Julieta at the new apartment. Completely white and shiny walls. I mentioned. -It looks good, and when I graduate as a doctor we'll build ourselves a nice house. She smiles. -Definitely... Ambar interrupts and starts running around the place. -This place has so much space! Julieta smiled seeing her like that, and then looked at me. -Did you ever think about being a father? I answered. -Someday I had to be. Ambar and I are accomplices. She took my hands. -Imagine our future together, in a house in a small town. I'd have my café and you'd be a great surgeon. We kissed, sealing that promise. I changed fate... The end. Full Shadow Love