“I run a multimillion-dollar development firm,” Alejandro said, tucking the key into his vest pocket.

“You’re misreading basic financial records that don’t concern you.”

He turned on his heel and walked out into the main hallway, pulling the door shut behind him with a firm click.

A moment later, I heard Doña Victoria’s voice speaking softly in the corridor, followed by the clipped rustle of her silk scarf as she walked toward the stairs.

I stood motionless by the writing desk until the house was completely silent.

Doña Victoria had walked past my vanity table three minutes before Alejandro locked the study door.