The silence in the council chamber felt like a living thing.
Catalina stood frozen, her heart was hammering so hard she could hear it in her ears. Miguel was still on his knees, his face was pale, but his eyes were burning with something between pride and terror.
Esteban rose slowly from his chair. His face was calm, but his hands were clenched tight at his sides.
"You refuse," he said quietly. "After everything. After I spared your father's life. After I offered you safety. You still refuse."
"I'll serve you," Catalina said. Her voice shook but she held it steady. She swore not to give Esteban any hint of fear. "I'll do whatever you want, but my baby is mine. That's the one thing I won't give."
"Then you're a fool." Esteban descended the steps slowly, each footfall was echoing. He se
