PART 1
Don’t make a fuss, Mariana. A child less is not going to sink this family.
That’s what his father told him while his 6-year-old son disappeared into the sea.
For a second, Mariana Salcedo didn’t understand anything. The yacht continued to advance in front of the bay of Puerto Vallarta, illuminated by golden lights, soft mariachi music and champagne glasses raised by businessmen, politicians and ladies with long surnames. It was Claudia’s engagement party, her younger sister, the perfect daughter of the Salcedo family.
And then Nico fell overboard.
It didn’t trip.
He didn’t slip.
Mariana saw it.
“Nico!” shouted Mariana.
The scream broke the party in two.
Some guests turned around. Others were frozen with the cup in hand, as if they did not know if that was a tragedy or an uncomfortable scene that it was convenient to ignore.
“Auxilio! My son fell into the water!
Mariana tried to let go, but Rodrigo squeezed harder.
“I warned you not to bring your problems to your sister’s party.
“He’s your grandson!
His father’s gaze didn’t change.
He is the son of a shame.
Teresa approached, elegant in her white dress, with pearls on her neck and a calm that chilled Mariana’s blood.
“This family has survived generations because it knows how to cut what the stain,” he whispered.
Then he pushed her.
The sky turned. The music turned to wind. Mariana felt the brutal blow of the water, the dress pulling her down, the salt burning her throat. He climbed as he could, swallowing sea, hitting the waves in despair.
Nico was several meters away, moving his arms, crying, sinking and going out.
Mariana swam as if the whole world was behind her son. When he got to him, Nico held on to his neck.
“My grandmother pushed me,” he sobbed. Mom, why did my grandmother push me?
Mariana didn’t answer.
The yacht did not stop.
Not a boat.
Not a lifeline.
Not a voice.
“Click here to read the full story”.
