When dessert had been served and the final contracts discussed, Augusto rose from his chair, signaling the end of the meeting. “The bill has already been taken care of,” one of the investors said with a smile. “It was a pleasure, Monteiro.” “The pleasure was ours,” Augusto replied, shaking their hands firmly. Eloise remained beside him, cordial and discreet, until Augusto gave her a subtle nod indicating that it was time to leave. They walked side by side through the restaurant’s elegant lobby, their footsteps muffled by the luxurious carpet. The maître d’ opened the glass door for them, and the warm afternoon breeze swept over them. But before they could descend the entrance steps, fate decided to test her patience. A voice came from behind them—low and surprised. “Eloise?” The arrogant, pretentious voice, heavy with irony, sliced through the air. She froze for a second, her polite smile collapsing on the inside. My ungrateful cousin and my cowardly fiancé, she thought, bu
Last Updated : 2026-09-18 Read more