Under Suspension

The tension in the room was obvious, with Carmen’s determination radiating like a shield around her. Pablo sighed deeply, running a hand through his hair. He had seen this side of her before–the side that wouldn’t take no for an answer, and it was for the same reason she landed in the hospital.

“I’ll speak to the doctor,” Pablo finally said, his tone reluctant. “But don’t expect them to agree so easily.”

“They will,” Carmen said firmly, her gaze never leaving Romero’s pale face. “And if they don’t, I’ll leave anyway.”

Diego shook his head in exasperation. “Carmen, this is madness. You’re putting yourself at risk.”

“No, Diego,” Carmen replied, her voice soft but unyielding. “What’s madness is leaving him unprotected after what’s happened. You don’t understand. I need to be here. Not just for him, but for myself.”