That same day, she found Noah’s drawings stuffed in a drawer, ripped and crumpled.
“I don’t feel like drawing anymore,” he whispered.
Things got worse.
During a holiday light festival, Serena left Noah behind with a stranger so she could walk ahead with Gabriel. She lied later—said she’d gone to get hot cocoa.
Noah shook his head when Lucía asked.
“She didn’t get cocoa. She just walked away.”
The breaking point came days later.
Serena cornered Noah in his room, her voice sharp and venomous.
“You’re ruining everything. Your father can’t focus on me because of you. Stop acting helpless.”
Lucía walked in mid-sentence.
She stepped between them, shaking with anger.
“That’s enough.”
Serena scoffed. “You’re just the help. Don’t overstep.”
“No,” Lucía said quietly, voice steady. “I’m the only one here who actually cares about him.”
Noah’s eyes widened—someone had finally defended him.
Serena stormed out.
