Change of Plans

I felt gaslighted. Manipulated. Blindsided.

“What do you mean? What are you saying, Matteo?”

“I’m saying you’re leaving today,” he repeated calmly. “Dante and Rosa will follow tomorrow.”

“What?” I blinked. “Why? I’m not leaving without my son. Are you kidding me?” My voice was rising. “There’s no way I’m leaving here without Dante. It’s either both of us, or it’s nothing at all.”

I took a breath,