Dedication

To my parents, Nancy and Roberto,

for never questioning my dreams, for celebrating every word I wrote as if it were a shared victory. You gave me wings with your faith and tenderness.

To Merlyn, my dearest friend,
for holding me up even when I didn't know how to hold myself. Thank you for reminding me, with your laughter, that life can still be bright—even on the cloudiest days.

And to my great-grandmother Carmen,
who no longer walks beside me but lives in every memory. Grieving your absence taught me that love transcends even death, and it was that pain—so deep and so pure—that planted the seed of this book.

Thank you for existing in my story. This book is also a part of yours.

"Sometimes, the love that transforms us the most isn't the one that stays, but the one that teaches us how to keep walking, even after it's gone."