Book 3: Chapter 11

Diego’s eyes narrowed, his fists clenching at his sides. "You took these," he growled, his gaze darting to the files in her hand. “Where did you go? Who did you meet?”

His voice was venomous, dripping with suspicion. The accusation was clear, Diego wasn’t just angry about the files. He was enraged by the idea that she might have run to someone else. That she might have betrayed him in more ways than one.

Esmeralda swallowed, her heart pounding in her chest. Santiago’s instructions echoed in her mind, Be calm. Be convincing. Make him believe you’ve come back of your own accord.

“I went to clear my head, Diego,” she said, stepping forward, slowly closing the distance between them. “I was angry… confused. I needed space. But I realized something while I was gone.”

Diego’s eyes flashed with something dark and dangerous. “And what’s that?” he spat, his voice low and threatening.

Esmeralda took a deep breath, gathering all the strength she had left. “I realiz