49. Drunken Mess

I clenched my fists, fighting the urge to lash out. Her audacity to still control the situation infuriated me, even in her so-called apology. She may have admitted to burning down my shop, but the way she casually threw in that final demand about Kelly made my blood boil.

“I’m not taking Kelly away from her father,” I said, keeping my voice calm though my body was trembling. “But you don’t get to make decisions for me or her. You’ve done enough damage, and no, a new shop won’t erase the pain you’ve caused.”

Mrs. Carlos opened her mouth as if to retort, but I didn’t give her the chance. “I’m here for Ivan and for Kelly, not for you. And if you ever do something like that again—” I stopped myself, realizing my voice had risen.

Kelly tugged at my hand, sensing the tension, her small face full of worry. “Mommy?”

I exhaled, trying to calm down. “It’s okay, sweetie.”

Mrs. Carlos took a step back, her hands clasped in front of her. “I’ve done what I can,” she said with a sigh, her expression