Book 3: Chapter 15

“It’s not just about playing a role,” Diego replied, though the dismissive flicker in his eyes suggested otherwise. “It’s about showing that we’re a strong, united front. My contact is a traditionalist, and he likes to see the men he does business with as stable, family men. It puts him at ease.”

Esmeralda’s mind raced as she processed his words. The way he framed it, it sounded as though her presence was just another calculated move in one of his business strategies. Her suspicion deepened. Was his apology genuine, or was it simply a tactic to ensure she played her part without causing any disruptions? She couldn’t help but wonder how far Diego was willing to go to maintain appearances, even if it meant manipulating her emotions.

“You said the person you’re meeting needed you to present yourself as a family man ‘or so you heard,’” she said, picking up on his choice of words. “How did you come to know that?”

A faint smile tugged at the corners of Diego’s lips, and