Book 3: Chapter 39

Esmeralda’s heart skipped a beat as she pulled into the driveway and spotted Diego’s sleek, black car parked just outside the house. Santiago had been right; Diego was already back from his trip, and the sight of his car sent a rush of anxiety through her. 

She took a deep breath, mentally preparing herself for the role she needed to play. Everything about her demeanor had to be calm and unassuming, she couldn’t afford to let any of her true feelings slip through.

Stepping out of her own car, Esmeralda smoothed her dress and walked toward the front door, rehearsing the lie she’d already prepared. I went to the spa, she told herself, the phrase repeating in her mind like a mantra. I went to the spa. She had to act as if nothing was wrong.

As she entered the house, Diego’s voice immediately called out, slicing through the silence. “Esmeralda,” he said, his tone sharp. He was already waiting for her in the entryway, his arms folded, an unreadable expression on hi