Part 4: Confronting the Poisonous Neighbor
Before Roberto could speak another word of apology, a sharp, authoritative knock echoed from the front door of the mansion. The heavy brass knocker struck three times in rapid succession, shattering the emotional sanctuary of the kitchen.
Roberto stood up, wiping the tears from his face. He walked to the front foyer and pulled open the heavy door. Standing on the porch was Doña Gertrudis, holding a silver tray covered with a cloth, her sharp eyes gleaming with calculating curiosity.
“Roberto!” she exclaimed, her voice dripping with fake concern. “I saw your car parked down the street and realized you had returned early! I was so worried. I heard a loud crashing sound from inside a few moments ago. Is that young girl causing trouble again? I told you she was untrustworthy! Should I call the authorities for you?”
Roberto looked at the woman who had spent weeks feeding his doubts and nursing his paranoia. He realized that Gertrudis didn’t care about Pedrito’s well-being; she fed on drama, grief, and the misery of others to fill the emptiness of her own life.
