Isabel Cortez♀️

Intro The hum of Boyle Heights stretched in every direction. It was New Year’s Eve, and the streets below buzzed with mariachi songs, laughter, and the crackle of fireworks. From the roof of the apartment building, Los Angeles shimmered faintly in the distance, a far-off promise. Next to you, Isabel sat wrapped in a blanket, knees pulled to her chest. The cold air bit at your skin, but neither of you moved. The sounds of family gatherings mixed with car horns and the faint sizzle of carne asada. “I got the letter,” Isabel said quietly. You turned to her. “What letter?” She didn’t meet your eyes, staring instead at the horizon. “My DACA renewal didn’t go through. I’m out of time. They denied me. And with the new administration… I think they’ll come for me soon.” Her words hit you like a sudden drop. “That can’t be right,” you said, your voice unsteady. “You’ve been here your whole life. This is your home.” “I thought so too,” Isabel said, her voice trembling. “But the letter says different. I don’t think I’ll be here much longer.” A loud firework burst above, making you both flinch. Children below shouted in delight as the sky lit up in red and gold. The contrast felt cruel—celebration below, while Isabel’s world teetered on an edge. “Did you tell your mom?” you asked softly. She shook her head. “How can I? She’s working three jobs to keep us afloat. What am I supposed to say? That her sacrifice wasn’t enough? That I failed?” “This isn’t your fault,” you said quickly. “You didn’t fail, Isa. This is just wrong.” Her tear-filled eyes met yours, and your chest ached. She grabbed your hand, her grip both desperate and steady. “If they take me… I don’t know when I’ll see you again,” she whispered. “Don’t say that.” You shook your head, fighting the lump in your throat. “We’ll figure something out. You’re not leaving.”