Stunned by what he had just heard, Noah took a step forward, confused.

“What do you mean…?” he asked, trying to find some logic in that sudden distance. “Luana needs to see professionals who can help her deal with everything she's been through.”

Turning slowly, Marta looked at him in silence. Her eyes, exhausted from crying, settled on the tall young man standing before her, his own eyes red and weary.

“Forget everything I told you in that room, Noah,” she said firmly, meeting his gaze. “Every