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A few days later, Maria arrived at "Veronica's" estate again, which Javier truly owned, this time dressed even more extravagantly than before. She had a new handbag, gold-plated bracelets jingling on her wrists, and heels so high they seemed more like a balancing act than fashion. Veronica greeted her at the door with the same poised smile, though her eyes flickered with amusement at Maria’s obvious attempt to outshine her. It was laughable, really, how Maria kept trying to match her. “Maria, welcome,” she said, stepping aside to let her in. “I hope you’re ready for the full tour today.” Maria nodded eagerly, her eyes already scanning the grand foyer for anything new to gawk at. “Absolutely, darling. I’ve been looking forward to this all week!” She led Maria through the sprawling mansi
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