As I sat down across Abuela the aroma 9f her famous arroz con pollo filled the air, transporting me back to a time when life was simple.
Abuela's warm smile and twinkling eyes made me feel like I was home, like nothing has changed.
But as I looked around the table I couldn't help but notice the empty chair beside me. Sophia's chair.
A pang of sadness hit me again and I felt a lump form in my throat.
Abuela seemed to sense my emotions and reached out to put a gentle hand on mine. M'ija I know it's hard but let's enjoy this meal together okay?
She said, her voice soft and soothing. I nodded trying to push aside my emotions and focus on the present moment.
But as we began to eat , I couldn't shake the feeling that we were all just pretending that everything was fine when in reality nothing was fine st all .