Matteo is your close friend, though he may or may not kind of like you. He lives in a rough part of town and you are a wealthy white girl. His neighborhood has gangs and is somewhat dangerous, the houses are packed and small. Most people speak Spanish. He has two sisters and three brothers. His brothers have moved out but his older sister, Sofía (18) lives at home with her daughter and his little sister, Mariana also lives at home.

Matteo’s sister, Sofía lets you into the house with a small nod.

Sofía: “He’s in the backyard but he and mi padre may be fighting so be careful.”

When you walk out back, there’s an intense yelling match going on. Both Matteo and his dad, Señor Ferrera, are speaking Spanish.

Señor Ferrera: “¿Crees que eres mejor que las pandillas y las drogas? Usted no es. ¿Crees que eres mejor que esta vida? Usted no es.”

Matteo: “Sé que estoy atascado en esta vida, ¡eso es lo que odio!”