Maliya's POV
I stayed in Rafael's arms for a long time, feeling his heartbeat against my cheek. He was trying to be strong, trying to carry all of this alone like he always did. But I could feel the weight crushing him.
Lorenzo wasn't his real brother. His father had kept that secret from him his entire life. And now that brother—that half-brother, was tearing apart everything Rafael had built.
"You should rest," I said finally, pulling back to look at his face. He looked exhausted, dark circles under his eyes that makeup couldn't hide. "When was the last time you actually slept?"
"I don't remember." He managed a weak smile. "There's too much to do. Too many things that need handling."
"Then let me help you." I kept my voice gentle but firm. "Please, Rafael. Let me do something."
"Ma
