Cast of characters
Catalina Herrera
A young woman, aged from infancy through sixteen and beyond in memory/narration, with short brown hair (bangs mentioned at a young age), presented as a teenager on the cusp of adulthood by the story's present. Slim build, kept immaculately groomed and dressed by her father for public appearances — elaborate lace outfits as a small child, thick velvet formal dresses embellished with reflective stones at events. Practiced, camera-ready smile that masks visible exhaustion and wariness in her eyes; posture alternates between performative poise in public (soirees, rallies) and guarded stillness in private. Skin unmarked in public photos but implied bruising/scarring hidden beneath clothing from abuse (broken arm healed, whip marks). Wears sophisticated, elegant dresses fit for galas as she grows older, styled to mirror her mother's image. Voice: female, teenage to young adult; soft, controlled alto with a practiced brightness that thins into flat exhaustion when unguarded; measured, deliberate pace; neutral American accent.
Simon Herrera
(inferred — the source does not describe them; author to confirm) A middle-aged man, silver-touched dark hair styled for television, tall and imposing build, dressed in tailored senatorial suits — crisp white shirts, dark ties, American-flag lapel pins — the picture of polished political authority. Clean-shaven or neatly groomed facial hair, practiced camera-friendly smile that vanishes instantly in private, cold pale eyes that harden with fury. Carries himself with rigid, controlled posture in public, looser and more menacing in private, often shown removing his belt or looming over his daughter. Voice: male, 40s-50s; deep, commanding baritone that turns clipped and venomous when enraged; slow and deliberate in public speeches, sharp and biting in private confrontations; neutral American political-orator accent.
