Gabriel did not reach for me or tell me not to cry. He simply remained where he was, giving me room to feel whatever I felt.
“I don’t know what to do,” I whispered.
“You don’t have to know today.”
“Do I have to go with you?”
“No.”
The answer came so quickly that I looked up.
Gabriel met my eyes.
“You can stay with Rosa while we sort out the legal arrangements. Or you can come to my home. Or we can find another arrangement that makes you comfortable. Your father asked me to help you. He did not ask me to force you into a life with a stranger.”
Rosa nodded.
“He can stay here for now,” she said. “My sister is coming next week, but we have room. We’ll work with the proper people and make sure everything is done correctly.”
Gabriel looked grateful.
