9. Araceli's Pov

As Araceli walked back to her car, Rafael asked her, "Did you get to talk to Franco?"

"No," she replied, tears welling up in her eyes. "I saw him with his wife and I just couldn't bring myself to approach them."

Rafael put his arm around her and said, "It's okay. You don't have to put yourself through that. Let's just go home."

Araceli nodded in agreement.

As they got in the car and drove away, she couldn't help but feel a mix of emotions. She was heartbroken that Franco was with someone else.

"I'm sorry you had to go through that," Rafael said as they drove.

"It's not your fault," Araceli replied. "I just need some time to process everything."

"Take all the time you need," Rafael said. "I'm here for you, no matter what."

Araceli smiled weakly and leaned her head on the car's window.

....

As Rafael drove past the highway, I was reminded of the first time I boarded the a bus with Franco. I fell asleep on his arms and he gently caressed my hair until we reached our destination.