Fear choked Jimena as she stood before that room, the sounds of shouting seeping through the door. From her father, the cries were harsh, full of anger and demand; from her mother, pleas, and whimpers of pain. She even heard the sickening thud of blows.

A tremor ran through her, tears welling up and blurring her vision. She was so terrified. Only five years old, she couldn’t grasp the turmoil that often erupted in her home. One mystery, in particular, haunted her: why her mother always cried when her father shut them both inside their bedroom.

Suddenly, a pair of comforting arms wrapped around her shoulders, offering a sanctuary amidst the confusing, agonizing chaos. It was her older sister! She was always there, a steady wall of protection, even though she was just a child herself. More often than not, when their parents were neglectful or fighting, Claudia took charge, caring for Jimena and their little sister, Cecilia.

Jimena’s eyelids fluttered open, slowly adjusting to the light