CHAPTER 60

DAVID

I'm finally home, calling the front desk every fifteen minutes to hear from Nelly, until I'm referred to speak directly to her nurse, the same one I spoke to earlier and receive information that calms me down. I also call the hospital where Kiara is admitted and I am relieved to know that despite the blow to the head, her condition is not serious, on the contrary, there were no sequelae and soon she will be able to leave. I was afraid to tell Nelly about her friend's condition. Edward also called me and revealed his suspicions of Kaciana, who, apparently, told her contorted version of his involvement with Carlota and the kidnapping to the sheriff.

When I woke up I felt strange, empty, the bed seemed wide enough for a family of elephants or my loneliness.

Loneliness.

That word never struck me as bitter, for it used to be my sweetest punishment. Being alone was the destiny I chose years ago when I denied myself happiness.

Now, I'm in the cemetery, staring at Luís Miguel's tombstone