ARAI attempted to reason with Miguel, hoping to persuade him to reconsider his position. If deception proved necessary to sway him, I was prepared to employ it—yet my escape plan remained the absolute priority. The moment I break free from this place, I will abandon the mansion entirely. Under no circumstances will I rely on Madrid’s assistance if my own safety or, more critically, my father’s hangs in the balance. Self-reliance is my only viable path now.Miguel staggered back into the room, his face twisted in desperation. His eyes were wild, bloodshot, and his clothes hung disheveled on his frame. The sharp, acrid odor of cigarettes clung to him, mingling with the sour reek of sweat and despair. His appearance was terrifying—unkempt hair matted to his forehead, a feral glint in his gaze that spoke of a man teetering on the edge."Ara," he rasped, voice thick with anguish."Miguel, we can still talk about this," I said, my voice steady despite the fear clawing at my throat. "Let’s
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