At the end of the chapter, why does Esperanza feel her heart drop and that she has sunk into a"dark hole of despair and disbelief"?

Alfonso and Miguel have returned without Papa. Miguel cannot look at Esperanza, and Alfonso cannot speak.... his tears confirmed her fears. The body in the back of the wagon could only be Papa. Esperanza is devastated.

Miguel hung his head. Alfonso didn't say a word but the tears running down his round cheeks confirmed the worst.

Mama fainted.