Esteban’s face tightened.
“And…?” Victor asked.
Ximena hesitated. Her eyes filled with tears she was trying hard not to let fall.
“He said if my mommy complains… she’ll lose her job.”
The words echoed louder than anything else in the room.
Victor looked back at Esteban.
Now there was no doubt.
No misunderstanding.
Just truth… finally exposed.
“Take me to her,” Victor said.
Esteban hesitated. “Sir, it’s really not necessary—”
Victor didn’t even look at him.
“Rafa.”
That was enough.
Two of Victor’s men stepped forward, positioning themselves beside Esteban—not aggressive, but firm.
Clear.
There was no negotiation.
Ximena stood up quietly.
“Can I come?” she asked.
Victor looked down at her.
For a moment, his expression softened.
“Stay close to me.”
She nodded.
The elevator doors opened.
Inside, everything felt different.
Tighter.
Heavier.
No one spoke.
