Mathias waited until the building was quiet.
The gala had ended hours ago. The city outside the executive floor windows glowed softly, distant and indifferent. This was the hour he preferred—when conversations could exist without performance.
“Sit with me,” he said calmly.
Damián closed the door behind him and did as he was told. He didn’t bother pretending he didn’t know what this was about.
Mathias poured two glasses of water and slid one across the desk.
“You handled the event well,” he began. “Professionally. Respectfully.”
Damián nodded. “Thank you.”
A pause.
“There was a moment,” Mathias continued evenly, “when you forgot where you were.”
Damián’s jaw tightened, but he didn’t interrupt.
“I’m not interested in rumors,” Mathias said. “I don’t care what people imagine. I care
