Chapter 78

The sunlight streaming through the windows of the Rodriguez Seattle family estate felt like a mockery to Stefan. Once, this light had illuminated generations of family success. Now, it merely highlighted the dust gathering on furniture that would soon belong to strangers.

Stefan sat alone in his father’s study, nursing a glass of whiskey despite the early hour. The room still smelled of Eduardo’s cigars and leather-bound books, a scent that had once meant security and legacy. The carved mahogany desk where his father had taught him to review shipping manifests seemed smaller now, diminished like everything else in his life.

The sound of tires on gravel jolted him from his stupor. He moved to the window, watching the black town car roll to a stop. His stomach tightened. His parents were home.

Eduardo Rodriguez emerged first, his once-commanding posture now slightly stooped. The past weeks had weathered him visibly. He helped Emily from the car with practiced tendern