LIAR

I didn’t know that was here.” I study the open door and mentally note the seams.

“You should know,” he says. “You are my wife.”

The anger returns in a flash. “For how long?” I ask him. “What is your plan? You never told me. My life has turned into a roller coaster of terror. And I have no clue as to why.”

“Charlene , I’m protecting you and, now, your family. Haven’t I looked out for you?”

“You wouldn’t have to do that if you hadn’t brought me here in the first place!”

Alfredo rubs his hand across his face. And it’s only then that I see the dark circles under his eyes. The haggard look of not getting enough sleep, the dark stubble on his chin, and something I’ve never noticed before—the concern in his eyes.

No. I can’t back down. Alfredo must talk to me.

“Recently before our marriage you got kidnapped by your sister Martinez, she wants you dead now because you escape the auction and will become your dad’s heiress”

Liar!

“Then why bring my father here?

“Because clearly they are all in