I Own You

Romero gripped the armrest of his wheelchair, his mind reeling with the worst-case scenarios. “What are you saying, Pablo? Kidnapped? Why the hell would she be kidnapped?”

Pablo held up his hands quickly, realizing his words had gotten out of hand. “Calm down, Romero. I was just… I mean, it’s possible, right? It’s late, and she’s not home yet, so–”

“Stop saying nonsense and call her. Now,” Romero cut him off.

Pablo obeyed immediately, he scrambled to pull his phone from his pocket. He dialed Carmen’s number, pacing nervously as the ringing tone sounded in his ear. “Come on, pick up, Carmen…”

The phone rang once, twice, but no answer. “She’s not answering,” Pablo said.

“Keep trying,” Romero growled, tightening his grip on the armrest, the tension between his shoulders growing unbearable.

Pablo nodded, redialing. After what felt like an eternity, the call finally connected.

“Hello? Mister Pablo,” Carmen’s voice came through, stable and unbothered.