Claudia, consumed by grief, breaks down in tears, unable to contain the overwhelming sorrow of her loss. Carmen, sitting by her side, tenderly says, “Cry, Claudia. Let it all out. I’m here for you.” Between sobs, Claudia whispers, “I had a husband… a son… and now I have nothing. Nothing at all.”
Carmen, visibly affected by her friend’s pain, takes Claudia’s hand and assures her, “I know there’s no consolation for what you’re feeling, but I want you to know I’ll always be here for you. Whatever you need, I’m by your side. And Fina is, too.” But Claudia, her voice trembling, responds, “I’ve lost everything I loved most in this life. Nothing can make this better.”
In a gentle yet practical tone, Carmen suggests, “Why don’t I call your mother? She’ll know how to comfort you like no one else can. I’ll ask her to come here; she’ll jump on the first bus to be with you.” Claudia shakes her head firmly. “No, Carmen. I don’t want her here. Don’t make me feel even worse than I already do.”
Carmen hesitates but softly says, “Alright. That’s okay. But at least promise me you’ll come stay at my house. You shouldn’t be alone.” Claudia resists, insisting, “No, Carmen. You and your family have your own lives. I’ll just be a burden.” Carmen frowns, her voice filled with conviction. “A burden? Claudia, you could never be a burden to us. And Tasio needs you too, even if he doesn’t show it. We need to stay strong and face this together.”
As the night wears on, Carmen convinces Claudia to rest. “You’re exhausted,” Carmen says, tucking her in with care. “Stay here with me. You don’t have to go through this alone.” And for the first time in what feels like forever, Claudia allows herself to lean on someone, knowing she has found the support she so desperately needs.
