### (ALEXANDRA)

The night passed without any unpleasant surprises or obstacles. After I showed James the photo, I saw his ever-alert eyes and fierce gleam scrutinizing my features, body language, and even tone of voice. Of course, he did this discreetly, always flashing that completely false smile, but no one had ever been able to hide anything from me. It was clear that the powerful magnate was fascinated by my body and sharp mind, but he was far from trusting me. I didn’t blame him.

Given the history, he really couldn't let himself be swayed by sentimentality, lust, or whatever that was.

Ketlin and I still kept in touch after all that time, even though we couldn't meet as often as we wanted. The most beloved Colombian on the planet (after me, of course) had finally achieved her dream: she was now the mother of a beautiful boy, married to an influential music producer. Her younger sister, a detestable woman who had always tried to separate Ketlin from me and sabotage our friendship, took over the micro-business's finances. Despite her married life and motherhood, she made it clear that her loyalty to me hadn't ended. Not only that, but she also made it clear that she still cared about my story, aspirations... and desires for revenge.

I never explicitly told Ketlin that I wanted to see Gavin at the bottom of a pit. But it was evident that I could never stop thinking that all the humiliation I suffered, the scandal that shook my foundations, and even the threat of Jewel's bankruptcy were his fault. I managed to rebuild myself, become stronger, and even surpass the old Alexandra, but what about the idiot? He also prospered, at the cost of my tears and my tarnished reputation. All he had to do was adopt that ridiculous stance of a false leader and appeal to cheap sentimentality, saying he was sad and inconsolable but did it because he thought it was right.

And now, this... My esteemed ex-fiancé and his loyal watchdog together in a random square in Rio de Janeiro, sitting next to a girl I had never even heard of.

Her clothes were simple, and her posture inferior; obviously, she wasn't anyone important in any remotely relevant social circle, or I would easily recognize her. The photo was taken from afar, so it was practically impossible to make out details like facial features, making identification difficult. But why would these two important and wealthy men mingle with the rabble? Whoever this woman was, she was important enough to catch the attention of both.

Lying in bed with my back against the headboard, smoking a cigarette while James slept like the dead, I thought about what we discussed during dinner. Before we could proceed, we needed to know exactly who this woman was. After all, if we could play with everything we had, why not add that element? We would be foolish not to. We just needed someone neutral who could get close to the idiots' lives and pass the information to us. Someone not associated with James or me, who could gain both their trusts.

When we were together, Gavin always showed deep respect for my presence. He would be silent when I spoke, slightly lowering his head, and never had any problem following my instructions to the letter, in any context. His fascination and admiration were two of his greatest qualities, as well as all of Urus's prosperity. At that time, I even warned him to be careful with Donovan. Besides being practically responsible for all the revenues, planning, and advances, the mountain of muscles could easily become an executioner. After all, why stay in a secondary position when it was obviously him making the gears turn?

Gavin never cared about that. In fact, he once said that if it were up to him, Donovan would be the CEO and absolute president of all family businesses, but that would make his beloved parents go crazy and ruin his life. Nothing terrified and upset him more than dealing with his own family, which was why he left the United States in the first place. Before sleeping, he would tell stories about how difficult it was to live with them; the types of mental abuse he suffered and how comforting and liberating it was to be his own boss and deal with the consequences of his own choices instead of following a script molded by his parents.

The signs of weakness and disobedience were right under my nose, but I convinced myself that I could strengthen him over time. That all he needed was strong leadership coupled with a loyal partner, who would help him establish his rightful place in the world. But I paid dearly for that grave mistake.

As much as James was a lunatic who believed he was the center of the universe instead of the Sun, he was absolutely right about many things. A weak man cannot become strong if he doesn't have the necessary predisposition. If he was content with mediocrity and second place didn't make his blood boil, then that's where he should stay, period. Gavin would never be a leader, someone who inspired others to follow in his footsteps. Even in his English course for Brazilians, he tried to downplay his own role, always reinforcing partnerships with other professionals and intentionally dimming his own light. I never understood that, even after endless conversations. What was the problem with the spotlight? Why not revel in glory and glamour? Why not flaunt power?

On the rare occasions I tried to dissuade him from this idea, he reacted so quickly that I suspected it was a more serious problem. He got genuinely irritated when I wanted to see him as an emperor, saying I was dazzled and even daring to say that I didn't really know him. It was quite the opposite. I knew that in his heart there were crumbs of cowardice, and in a rare moment of genuine empathy, I wanted to expel them before it was too late to turn back.

In hindsight, I should have left much earlier. I shouldn't have even approached him, with those bright eyes and false sense of leadership.

When our engagement was already shaky due to inevitable clashes of ideas and ideals, I tried to absorb everything Gavin had told me. James Ethan was the name he mentioned the most, always with such anger and indignation that I questioned if he would really do something against the brilliant and popular CEO of Altari. As far as I knew, the bleached blond didn't harm a fly. Would James be the exception? So I decided to approach the rival, discover his weaknesses, and wrap them in gift paper to present to Gavin. A sort of apology and a chance for him to understand that I was on his side, despite all his suspicions.

The plan backfired. Upon meeting him, I saw he wasn't a fool who didn't know what he was doing and just went with the flow. Despite listening to advice and even welcoming them, he wasn't easily influenced or weak-minded. Yes, the latest ideas had been stolen but properly modified to be successful. Yes, it wasn't very honest or ethical to do that, but honesty and ethics didn't always increase profits. And in a world where winners quickly become losers, everything was fair game.

An implacable and ruthless logic, but undeniable. I didn't know how to counterargue, and once that charm was properly established, it would be very difficult to get rid of it.

My only misfortune during that time was not restraining my words, reconsidering my actions. I should have acted more cautiously; after all, I was still formally engaged to Gavin, and certain protocols were absolutely necessary. Ignoring them was childish folly. And on the day my hormones got the best of me and I "played a green," so to speak, it was precisely during Gavin's unusual and completely inconvenient visit, who heard my words and decided to throw everything in my face.

Even trying to explain that it was a plan to gain James's trust and get him to open up to the point of revealing all his peculiarities and vulnerabilities, he didn't want to listen. He said stupid things about love, family, importance, and other cheap speeches designed to move the masses. He raged and cried like a child who saw their best friend fraternizing with the class bully, and apparently had as many neurons as one. He didn't want to listen to me, reconsider, or even think rationally. That same night, he drowned in alcohol and decided it would be a good idea to seek comfort in a prostitute. This, of course, only to confess the next day how regretful he was for his actions and ask for forgiveness.

After all that drama, it was obvious I wasn't willing to forgive a weak man driven by currents of emotions, little stability, and no discernment. And by that point, it was obvious that not even all the guidance and prayers in the world could fix him. The downfall of the strong is thinking the weak are comparable. Deeply hurt, upset, and completely outraged by all the dedication wasted, I sent him to unmentionable places and wished his life would be miserable and short.

But that's not exactly what happened, is it?

Despite brief rumors reaching my ears about all the indisposition, depression, and chaos taking over the esteemed's life, I was in complete ruin. I was overcome by strong sensations of defeat, which for me is worse than death. I swallowed shards of glass to stand again, and I would never forget the person responsible for all that agony and absolute hell.

I look to the side and analyze James's strong back marked by muscles, who is still deeply asleep.

Yes, he was a strong and noteworthy man. Definitely a man who could be very, very useful to me. And then, if he showed any signs of betrayal or weakness, he would meet the same fate as anyone who dared stand against me: the proper disposal.

I blow out the cigarette smoke and stare into the darkness of the room. I would emerge victorious this time, and nothing would take that away from me. Absolutely nothing.

. . . . . . . . . . . .

### (GAVIN)

Amanda is completely

crazy and probably planning something beyond sinister for me. I don't know how many times I've said this in recent months, but I reiterate that I was practically forced to fall in love with the worst woman on the planet, and I would definitely spend a few more years of my life suffering the consequences of that.

But if I dwell too much on this thought, I'll lose my mind. So I prefer to think of my latest project: organizing a pleasant and exciting book fair in Praça Lamas. The place has an extremely rich history and would greatly benefit from an event like this. Fortunately, our partners and sponsors liked the idea a lot and agreed with everything. The announcement on social media excited many curious people and potential attendees.

Even more promising than that was the possibility of showing Charlotte a bit more of our wonderful city. Ever since she landed here, I've noticed how enchanted she is with everything. It makes perfect sense; she's a foreigner and probably hasn't seen half of what we can offer. Besides, her education in arts and literature was enviable. She talked about this without making an effort to appear superior or anything. Quite the opposite. She was always respectful and genuinely kind, which makes her even more pleasant to deal with.

She reminded me a lot of Alexandra. Only the version of Alexandra I created in my head and never actually met.

I check my watch, and it's almost time for the meeting with the organizers, who want to finalize the details and maybe make some last-minute changes before the big event. Before entering the café, I call Charlotte and ask if she could meet me there. I don't want to be alone, and we could discuss the plans and even relax a bit after the meeting.

She promptly agrees, with that always cheerful and welcoming tone. She would have no idea how it would completely save my day to hear that.

The café is half full, and the people who were supposed to meet us were already waiting, with their papers and ideas about how to improve the fair. The aroma of fresh coffee and the peaceful atmosphere make the place perfect for conversation. I greet the organizers with a handshake, and we exchange brief compliments before getting down to business.

### (CHARLOTTE)

I knew this event would be exciting and beneficial for all of us, but the fact that I was personally invited by Gavin to participate makes everything more promising. We haven't had much time to talk since I arrived in Rio. He's always busy with commitments, meetings, and projects, but it was always inspiring to see him in action. His dedication and passion were palpable, and that greatly motivated me.

When he called me, I was already finishing my latest readings and preparing to attend. I quickly got ready, put on a light dress, and a pair of comfortable shoes and left, hoping to make the best possible impression.

The day is sunny, the weather is pleasant, and I feel optimistic about the opportunities and learning this fair will bring. I arrive at the café a few minutes later and spot Gavin talking to the organizers. His welcoming smile and affectionate hug make me feel at home, and I respond with the same warmth.

We sit down and begin discussing the plans for the book fair. I suggest some ideas to attract more people, especially young readers, and they are very well received. Gavin agrees with enthusiasm, and we all work together to make this event memorable.

In the midst of our discussion, I notice a woman at a nearby table observing us attentively. She is elegant and has an air of confidence. For a moment, our eyes meet, and I feel a shiver run down my spine. I try to focus on the conversation, but I can't help but wonder who she is and why she's watching us.

Despite this momentary distraction, I remain focused on our plans and contribute with everything I can. The meeting is productive, and we leave the café with a sense of accomplishment and expectation for the big day. Gavin thanks me sincerely for my help and asks if I would like to take a walk in the square to relax a bit.

I gladly accept the invitation, and we stroll through Praça Lamas, talking about the books we read recently and sharing our expectations for the future. It was a peaceful and happy moment, and I feel grateful for the opportunity to be there and be part of something so special.

As we walk, I can't shake the feeling that the woman at the café was someone important, and I wonder if our paths will cross again. For now, I focus on the present moment and enjoy Gavin's company, feeling more connected and confident in my abilities to face whatever comes our way.

### (DONOVAN)

Observing Charlotte and Gavin walk through Praça Lamas, chatting and laughing, makes me think of how things can change so suddenly. Who would have thought that this young girl, who barely knew the city, could become such an important part of our lives?

She has brought a refreshing energy to our routine, and Gavin seems more motivated and excited about his projects. I can see that Charlotte has a positive influence on him, and that makes me happy. After everything we've been through, we deserve some peace and moments of genuine happiness.

However, I can't help but feel a little apprehensive. I know that Alexandra is still out there, plotting her revenge and planning her next move. And with James by her side, things can get even more complicated. We need to be careful and prepared for whatever they have in mind.

For now, I choose to focus on the present and enjoy the calm moments while they last. We'll face the challenges when they come, and we'll do everything we can to protect ourselves and those we care about.

As I watch Gavin and Charlotte walk away, I silently vow to keep an eye on them and ensure their safety. No matter what happens, we'll face it together, and we'll come out stronger on the other side.