Book 3: Chapter 33

“See that you do. And remember, if you can’t keep your personal affairs discreet, perhaps you aren’t fit to handle the responsibilities that come with this position.” The threat lingered in the air, heavy and suffocating.

Santiago’s eyes hardened, but he forced himself to keep calm. “Understood, Father. I’ll keep you informed.”

Before his father could retort, two men entered the study, dragging a woman between them. Santiago’s gaze shifted, and a spark of recognition flared in his eyes as he took in Marcela, her face pale and her wrists restrained by the men holding her. Her disheveled hair and the defiant glint in her eyes suggested she hadn’t come willingly.

“I have urgent business to attend to,” he said into the phone, his tone clipped. “I’ll call you back.”

Without waiting for a response, he disconnected the call, slipping the phone into his pocket as he turned to face Marcela. He raised an eyebrow, his expression impassive.

The guards released Marc