Book 3: Chapter 16

Diego, too focused on the meeting’s proceedings, barely registered Esmeralda’s whisper. His attention was already directed toward the men seated at the table, but Santiago’s presence was impossible to ignore. With a stoic expression, Santiago leaned back in his chair, his body language radiating control and composure. His gaze settled firmly on Diego, as if Esmeralda were invisible, a mere shadow in the room.

"You kept us waiting, Mr. Morales," Santiago remarked, his tone flat but laced with an unspoken challenge. "I wasn’t expecting to waste time, especially considering this is our first deal together."

Diego let out a chuckle, a thin attempt to lighten the mood and mask the hint of irritation that flickered in his eyes.

“Ah, you know how women can be,” he said with a forced grin, resting his hand on the small of Esmeralda’s back. “Always taking their time to doll up.” He gave a playful squeeze, his fingers pressing just a little too firmly as if to emphasize her