The following morning, Isabella awoke to the soft hum of activity in the mansion. She stretched, the memory of last night’s gala still pressing in her mind—the stares, the whispers, and the weight of Alejandro’s scrutiny. Every smile, every gesture, every interaction had been observed and recorded, both by society and by him.
She dressed carefully again, this time in a fitted cream blouse and pencil skirt, simple yet refined. Alejandro had made it clear: presentation was part of obedience, part of survival. Every outfit, every expression, and every word was a tool—and a test.
Downstairs, the staff moved in perfect synchronization. Valentina greeted her with the usual clipped nod. “Your schedule for today has been updated. Alejandro will be hosting a small board meeting this afternoon. Yo
