—We also found evidence of audio recording devices installed in the master bedroom, kitchen, and the baby’s room.
Rodrigo turned to Teresa.
—You put recording devices in my house?
—For security.
—In my wife’s bedroom?
Teresa did not answer.
Grandmother Elena slowly stood up with her cane. She was 84 and rarely spoke at family gatherings.
—Teresa has always feared children she cannot control.
Her voice was weak, but everyone heard it.
She placed an old photograph on the table.
A young woman held a blue-eyed baby.
Elena looked at Daniela.
—Blue eyes do exist in this family. Teresa knew it before Lucía was even born.
Daniela felt the ground disappear beneath her.
And when Elena placed the photo beside the birthday cake, everyone understood that Teresa’s lie was far older than anyone imagined.
PART 3
The photograph showed a woman with dark hair, a light dress, and a proud expression. In her arms, she held a blue-eyed baby.
Elena pointed at the image with trembling fingers.
—This was my sister Amalia. She had blue eyes. My mother too. Teresa knew because I told her when Lucía was born.
Rodrigo looked at his mother in horror.
—So you knew the eyes meant nothing.
Teresa lifted her chin.
—It was never about the eyes. It was about Daniela.
