The sound of Fabricio's retreating footsteps lingered in Naela's mind like a haunting melody. She stared at the heavy wooden door, her chest heaving as she tried to calm her racing thoughts.
How had it come to this? Why had Isabella brought her here, only to betray her? The thought burned like acid, but Naela knew dwelling on it wouldn't help.
Her gaze darted around the room, taking in every detail. There had to be a way out. She swung her legs over the side of the bed, her muscles protesting as she forced herself to stand.
The window was covered by thick velvet curtains. She pulled them aside, revealing a night sky filled with stars and bars across the glass. A soft creak behind her made her freeze. She turned, her breath catching as she saw a figure standing in the shadows.
"Who's there?" she demanded, her voice trembling.
The figure stepped forward, revealing a man dressed in dark clothing, his face half-hidden beneath a hood.
"You shouldn't have come here," he said, his tone low and urgent.
Naela's pulse quickened. "Who are you? What do you want?"
"Someone who knows what Fabricio is capable of," he replied. "And someone who knows the truth about your family."
Naela's blood ran cold. "What do you mean?"
"Claudia sent you here for a reason," the man said, stepping closer. "You're a pawn in a much larger game, Naela. One that could destroy you if you're not careful."
The sound of voices outside the door cut through their conversation. The man straightened, his gaze darting to the window.
"Be careful who you trust," he whispered before slipping into the shadows and vanishing as quickly as he had appeared.
Naela stared after him, her heart pounding. The truth about her family? About Claudia?
The door burst open again, and this time, Fabricio entered. His expression was grim, his jaw set.
"Get up," he ordered.
"Why? What's going on?"
"You're about to find out just how deep this mess goes," he said, grabbing her arm. "And you'd better be ready for the answers."