The officers separated us for further questioning. Javier was informed that the reported assault and threats would be documented and investigated, and that he could face legal consequences. The financial documents would require separate examination.
There was no dramatic declaration of guilt.
No instant courtroom judgment.
Only evidence, witnesses, official reports, and the beginning of consequences he could no longer talk his way out of.
Somehow, that felt more powerful.
As I prepared to leave, Mercedes called my name.
I turned.
Her eyes were wet.
"Clara, please. Don't ruin my son's life."
I studied her face.
Three years earlier, I would have rushed to comfort her.
Now I noticed that she hadn't once asked whether I was hurt.
"Mercedes," I said softly, "your son made his choices."
She shook her head.
"He's your husband."
I removed my wedding ring.
For a moment, it caught the chandelier's light.
"Not for much longer."
