“Yes, my sweet Alma. I’m here now,” Tomás replied, his voice steady but laden with emotion. He scooped her into his arms, holding her close, as if to shield her from all the hardships she’d endured in his absence.

The neighbors, who had gathered at a distance, watched with bated breath. They had expected a soldier’s wrath, perhaps a storm of confrontation. But instead, they witnessed a father’s quiet resolve, an embrace that spoke volumes more than words ever could.