Chapter 1: The Truth Unveiled
Chapter 1: The Truth Unveiled
The mansion fell into complete silence.
Even the grandfather clock seemed to stop ticking.
Santiago stared at the silver-haired man walking confidently across the marble floor, surrounded by four security officers dressed in dark suits.
"You..." Santiago muttered.
Ricardo Salazar's expression never changed.
His eyes didn't leave his daughter.
"Valeria."
The single word carried years of regret.
Valeria burst into tears.
For the first time in two years, she no longer had to pretend to be strong.
"I'm sorry, Dad..."
Ricardo wrapped his coat around her trembling shoulders before kneeling beside her swollen belly.
"Did he hurt you?"
She couldn't answer.
The bruises hidden beneath her sleeves answered for her.
Ricardo slowly stood.
His calmness was far more terrifying than anger.
"Santiago Rivas."
"You have exactly thirty seconds to explain why my daughter has fresh bruises while carrying my grandson."
Beatriz laughed nervously.
"There must be some misunderstanding."
"Your daughter is emotional because of the pregnancy."
Ricardo looked toward one of his assistants.
"Play the recording."
The room instantly filled with Santiago's voice.
"If you don't sign tomorrow... your child will grow up without a mother."
Then Beatriz's voice.
"Don't leave marks the photographers can see."
The color drained from both of their faces.
Santiago realized too late.
Every threat had been recorded.
Every crime had become evidence.
Ricardo spoke quietly.
"My lawyers have already sent copies to the police."
"And to every member of your board."
May you like
"You wanted to erase my daughter."
"I'm simply returning the favor."
