Red_Roses_and_Black_Dahlias_-_Macy_T

It was common knowledge that Marcella Raymond was from Mexico, but
she didn’t have even the slightest accent, and I’d never heard her speak
Spanish before. So hearing Sofia speak so fluently and effortlessly, I found
myself at loss for words. I thought I knew her fairly well, but it seemed like
she’d never cease to surprise me.
Valentina finally looked up and after a second or two of staring at her like
she was trying to get out of her own head, she launched herself at Sofia. I felt
like I could breathe a little easier knowing Sofia finally got to her sister,
knowing Valentina was not spiraling back into unwanted memories anymore.
The little girl started speaking fast, still in Spanish, words mixed with
sobs and all the while, Sofia patiently nodded and wiped the tears off her
cheeks. When she was done, they both hugged tight and I suddenly felt like I
was invading a really private moment between sisters. I was ready to get up
and go when Valentina’s gaze suddenly fell on me.
She didn’t say anything and simply reached a hand out to me, surprising
me. I didn’t wait long before grasping it in my much bigger one, she pulled
me to them until I was kneeling and hooked her right arm around my neck
while still hugging her sister with her left one. I could feel her calm breath on
the side of my cheek and it brought inexplicable peace to my soul. Sofia’s
head fell on my shoulder and as her free hand found mine I squeezed it.
Having them both in my arms, where I could protect them and give them
the affection they deserved but so obviously lacked, it felt right.
It felt like home.
That’s what made me say ‘fuck it.’. They were not staying in this hotel
another night.
“Take your stuff, girls, you’re moving in with me tonight.” Both sisters
looked up at me after that, surprise shining in their similar eyes.
The DA’s decision be damned, I was done waiting.