Matthew, Charles, and Sergeant Carvalho showed up at the Andrade Clinic after thoroughly studying the medical reports of those hospitalized.Dr. Almeida found them in one of the corridors. “Mr. Andrade, it’s great to meet you. Some patients can now be discharged.”“Take me to them, doctor.” Carvalho ordered, “I need to remind them to report to the police station, especially after the results of some tests.”Dr. Almeida nodded and led the sergeant to the patients who would be released.Matthew asked dismissively, “Will those who have consumed excessive drugs and alcohol voluntarily go to the police station?”“If they don’t go, it will be worse for them.” Charles chuckles.Walter approached them. “Dad, Matt! How was it at the police station?”“We managed to convince the hard-headed sergeant.” Charles replied, “It looks like some patients will be released today. Sergeant Carvalho will ‘remind’ them that they need to go to the police station.”“If they don’t go, they’ll get a subpoena.” W
At the Andrade Clinic, Dr. Almeida smiled in front of Mr. and Mrs. Andrade. Everyone is in Walter’s office.“Mr. and Mrs. Andrade, good news. Jacqueline is better and she’ll be able to go home tomorrow.”“Oh, thank God!” Emmanuelle started to cry. Charles hugged her.“Take it easy, honey. God has been merciful to us.”“I was scared, darling...” Emmanuelle buried her head in her husband’s strong chest, seeking protection and comfort.Charles looked at the lady doctor. “Thank you very much for your skill, Dr. Almeida. I’m confident that we hired the best professionals for my clinic.”“If I didn’t save your daughter, I might tear up my diploma.” Dr. Almeida made this joke and left, leaving the couple alone.Walter entered the office, passing the doctor who was leaving.“Guys, by the doctor’s smile, something good happened to Jacque, right?”“She’ll be released tomorrow,” Emmanuelle responded, still hugging Charles.“And we need to celebrate among ourselves, without the Silva family invit
Matthew went to the Sterling Mansion still furious about what he suspected.“How could they do this? Ah, but it won’t end like that!”Jarbas appeared in the hall worried about the screams. “Young Mr. Sterling, what happened?”“Hello, Jarbas, good afternoon. Don’t worry. I’m discovering so many truths today that I can’t bear it.”“This is a shame. But don’t worry. With the lawyer your grandfather recommended...”Matthew had a mental snap. The lawyer!“Thank you, Jarbas. I’ll arrange a raise in your salary plus a 20% bonus next Christmas. Anything else you wanted?” Matthew smiled kindly.“But... But... What did I do, sir?” Jarbas was amazed.“You gave me a good idea to get revenge without getting my hands dirty. And about Jasmine...”Patricia entered the mansion at this time. “Honey, the doormen told me you walked past them snorting like a Spanish bull. What happened?”Matthew smiled calmer. “Don’t worry, my love. Thanks to Jarbas, I came up with a way to get revenge on my evil cousins
The next day, Jacqueline returned to the safety of the Andrade Mansion. Charles, Emmanuelle, and Walter cheered with excitement as they transported her back home.When they passed the living room, Emmanuelle was already crying.“My daughter survived the attack, thank God...”“Mom, don’t cry. I’m fine.” Jacqueline giggled. People are very protective lately.“The desire is to set off fireworks,” Walter replied.Charles also felt a lump in his throat. “Daughter, wouldn’t you rather go straight to your room and rest?”“No, I want to avoid lying down.” Jacqueline shook her head. “I want to sit down and watch a movie on streaming. I don’t want to watch conventional TV because I know they’re dealing with the mess, and I want to ease my mind for now.”Emmanuelle adjusted the armchair so Jacqueline was comfortable. “I’ll ask the maids to bring pillows and a blanket. I’ll make you a snack.”Charles picked up the remote, “What movie do you want to see, little girl?”“Access the catalog of Korean
In the master suite of the Borges House, Vanda was sitting at the existing computer, trying to click on something slowly and squinting to make sure what she was reading.Hélio walked past her without a shirt and wearing dress pants and was curious about what she was doing. “Can I help you with anything, honey?”“I’m not sure this grammar checker app is helping me,” Vanda commented worriedly. “Sometimes the suggestions they give weren’t what I really needed.”Hélio positioned himself behind her. “For example?”“This character is from the world of crime, but the application is asking me to correct all the slang and street expressions that the character needs to make him more realistic.” Vanda scratches the back of her head.Hélio laughs. “Honey, if that’s your intention, then it’s okay for you to ignore the suggestion. Don’t ruin your character or alienate your readers.”“You’re right.” Vanda smiled and turned to her husband. “I think I’m ready to send the manuscript to Golden Letters a
Jasmine had finished eating breakfast. She took advantage of the fact that her clothes and accessories were spread out and selected a swimsuit, sunglasses, and a hat to go to the beach.As she was bending down to pick up the bottle of sunscreen, Liz reappeared to continue scolding her.“Where do you think you’re going?”“I’m too white, I need to get a little color.” Jasmine shook off the sunscreen.“You’re aware and well-remembered of what I said earlier, correct?” Liz positioned herself at the door, preventing her daughter from leaving.“Yes, Yes, Yes. The plan is canceled.”The indifference in Jasmine’s voice made Liz suspicious. “Jasmine, I’m serious. You left me very disappointed with the way you handled the plan. Let’s pray that everyone forgets what happened.”“Do you think people will forget so easily, especially the Borges fam
Jackson ended the call and turned back to the computer. Vanda took the opportunity to approach him.“Son... I heard part of the conversation. Did you ask Cindy Cardoso to publish what Matt didn’t let Marilza Peres do? Don’t you think that’s defying Matt?”“Matt said Patty and I can get back at Ron and Jasmine in our way.” Jackson swiveled his chair around to see his mother. He smiled like a naughty boy.“This talk about the ‘materiality of the crime’, Mr. Mendes said it, right? Does this have to do with what your father said earlier?”“Yes, Mom. And I found out that Jasmine appeared on LCN making a huge fuss, demanding that her statement be published. Well, let’s do her bidding! Days later, she’ll receive a summons to appear in court.”Vanda laughs heartily, “He, he, he! I’m going to make blackberry pie because I’m so happy! Son, our plan is
The next day, Matthew was in his suite, working on the computer. He could have his office at headquarters, but for now, working from the comfort of home was better for him to focus, especially on the Ste-learning project.Patricia approached him with a steaming cup of coffee. She was still in her emerald green robe, “I asked the maids to bring you something. You’ve been working on this project tirelessly, huh?”“This is how it has to be.” Matthew smiled. He stopped typing and picked up the cup, “I’m contacting programmers to create the platform.”“Hmm, this is the part where I’m completely stupid.” Patricia laughs.“Don’t talk about yourself like that, darling.” Matthew laughs too. With his left hand, he gently pulls Patricia closer to him.“The people have united against Jasmine and Ron.” Patricia decides to inform Matthew about the crusade that everyone involved joined the day before.“How interesting.” Matthew smiled mischievously. “The coffee is good. Didn’t my cousins give up?”“
At Silva Oil Company, Kirk appeared in Leonardo’s office. Fernando and Marta had already left. “KIRK!” Leonardo abruptly stood up from his desk. “How are you, my young man!” “Mr. Silva?” Kirk was surprised by such reverence. “I didn’t know you cared so much about me...” “Cut the small talk! You just had a seizure and looked like you were going to die in my company,” Leonardo gestured for the employee to sit down. “Now I want to know all the details. Don’t hide anything from this curious old man.” Kirk smiled and sat down. “Well, sir, there’s not much to tell. I was stupid enough to fall for the siren’s song.” “In this case, the cocaine song, right?” Leonardo leaned forward. “What do you intend to do from here on out?” “Obviously, I promised myself and my family that I wouldn’t use that cr*p anymore. It wasn’t worth all the drama and suffering,” Kirk replied honestly. “That’s good. Then you can continue from where you left off,” Leonardo smiled, relieved. “That’s about what I w
In Urbano Magazine, Cindy returned with the printed sheet, extending it to Andreia. “Read this not-so-pretentious article, my friend,” Cindy declared. Andreia took the paper and read it. A smile formed at the right corner of her mouth. “Cool... nothing so blatantly accusatory, but clear enough for any semi-literate person to understand that Elaine knocked over that pyramid of champagne glasses, causing a scene at the book signing.” “Of course, I won’t say she did it because the honored author was her enemy’s mother,” Cindy replied mischievously. “You don’t want to risk Matt’s wrath.” Andreia stood up, a bit slowly due to her pregnancy. “Speaking of which, how did he react after your dad’s video?” “I didn’t bring it up with him,” Cindy shook her head. “If I mention it, people will say I still love him.” “And you don’t want to do anything to ruin your relationship with Jackson,” Andreia repeated. “Cindy, it’s commendable that you’re more committed and focused on having someone in
Fernando appeared in the kitchen wearing gray sweatpants. Liz, who was sour and bitter, smiled pathetically with her gaze fixed on her husband’s pants. “Good morning, son. What’s new?” Ronaldo replied rudely, “The news is seeing my mother still able to walk!” “RON!” Liz was startled. Fernando shook his head. “Son, don’t be disrespectful. Your mother and I are trying to be as discreet as possible.” Ronaldo shot back, “Just missing discretion when discussing my fiancée, huh? Can we talk about that now?” Liz pursed her lips. “I was so happy when I woke up, but you made sure to ruin my day.” “Mom, we can’t avoid the obvious!” Ronaldo turned to Fernando. “Matt told me that Elaine was reprimanded.” “And I will never agree to that!” Liz shouted. “Elaine was a victim of that tough girl from the slums! She could have died from a cut to her jugular!” “But Elaine provoked Patty’s wrath by saying those nasty things,” Fernando reasoned as he served himself breakfast. “Couldn’t Patricia a
Silva Penthouse, Monday morning. Ronaldo was walking down the hallway to the kitchen in just his boxer shorts when the suite door opened. Liz was smiling a little too much, looking like she was about to dance ballet. “Mom! Long time no see!” “Yes, son, I had a wonderful time with your father!” Liz replied suggestively. Ronaldo blushed to the roots of his hair. “Is breakfast ready?” she asked casually. “I was about to check,” Ronaldo said, heading to the kitchen. There, the coffee maker was already brewing coffee. “Nando must have prepared it in advance.” Liz took bread and butter from the fridge. Ronaldo, cautious, sat down at the table. He noticed a tear in Liz’s nightgown. “Mom, did you and Dad make up this Sunday?” “We can say he’s no longer in love with your fiancée,” Liz replied with a mischievous smile. “Mom, stop talking about that disgusting stuff!” Ronaldo frowned. “This is all your sick imagination.” Liz simply shrugged, sitting down at the table as well. “You’r
Elaine arrived stumbling with fear and bewilderment. The truth about Bella and Nathan’s relationship was something horrifying and incredible for her to digest. “Oh my God... how did these two families let this issue intertwine like this?” Nayla was at the reception desk, smiling, waiting for Elaine to approach. But when she realized Elaine was going to walk past her, Nayla called out loudly, “ELAINE?” Elaine stopped suddenly and looked at her friend. “Oh, Nayla, I’m sorry...” “Don’t worry. I know you must be going through a lot of pressure.” Nayla stood up. “I really am. But I always have time for my friends.” Elaine smiled and approached, trying to distract her mind. “I wanted to know if there are any openings here at Golden Letters for my brother.” Nayla asked respectfully. Elaine’s smile vanished with the wind. As Nayla’s boss, she knew who the brother was. “Nayla, we’re friends, but you know I have a strong opinion against drug use and sales.” Elaine replied in a boss t
At Andrade Clinic, Charles was leading a meeting with the receptionists and security guards. Walter and Emmanuelle were present. “So, everyone, the next time Liz Silva or anyone else causes a scene at the clinic entrance, security or even the police must be called in immediately. Don’t hesitate just because the troublemaker is someone from an important family. This is a hospital clinic, not a zoo, so I demand order in the lobby. A disturbance can jeopardize the patients who are waiting for care, and I don’t want to compromise anyone’s safety, understood?” “Yes, Mr. Andrade!” everyone responded in unison. “Okay, everyone can return to your posts.” The staff went back to work. Linda gave Walter a brief kiss before leaving. “Linda, I need to ask you a quick question,” Emmanuelle called her back. Linda paused, closing the door after the last person left. “Did you check with your parents if it’s safe to go home?” “No, Emmanuelle. The conversation with Gus was so good that I forgot
In Matthew’s suite, he was now buttoning the cuffs of his genuine cotton dress shirt. Elaine had also gotten out of the bathtub, unable to continue relaxing, and was now putting on her work suit.The memory of the Golden Letters prompted Matthew to strike up a conversation. “Did you remove a glass from the base of the pyramid?” Elaine stared at Matthew as if he were the devil. “What? How can you throw a question like that out of nowhere?” “I just asked a question, woman, answer me.” Elaine shook her head as she walked to the sofa to put on her high heels. “This is inconceivable. Your mind is always revolving around Patricia’s issues. You never forget her, and then tell me I don’t need to worry.” “Was the champagne glass pyramid made for an occasion involving Patricia?” Matthew countered logically. “No, but it was her mother’s book signing.” Elaine angrily slipped on her shoes. “Well, I remembered that many claimed the embarrassment happened because someone removed a glass from
Monday. Elaine was relaxing in the bathtub of her husband’s suite. Matthew stepped out of the shower stall, drying his hair with a white towel as he walked to the double sink. The sight of Matthew’s exposed body startled Elaine for a few seconds, but then she took advantage of the beautiful view, smiling mischievously. “It hardly feels like it’s Monday,” she commented casually. Matthew was washing his face as he said, “Yes, it’s Monday, the day to take care of important things after we relax our nerves on Sunday.” Elaine pursed her lips and retorted, “If I relaxed my nerves, it’s because they were in shambles. It’s not like me to live in constant stress, darling. I might not get the chance to calm down in the future.” Matthew turned off the faucet and grabbed a face towel. “Are you saying you would be willing to reduce your contact with Aunt Liz?” Elaine could no longer relax. “What does that mean?” Matthew tossed the towel onto the sink and turned to his wife. “I don’t like t
In the Silva Penthouse, Liz took advantage of the wreckage of the coffee table to create more drama. “Here we have it, darling! The COFFEE TABLE is SHATTERED with Elaine’s body thanks to Patty—” “SHUT UP!” Fernando slammed the door shut. Liz trembled in panic, staring wide-eyed at her furious husband. “But what is this? Why are you angry with me, darling, when you should be furious with Patty—” “I command silence, and you keep babbling even more!” Fernando went to the utility room to grab a broom. Liz quickly grabbed her phone and took a picture of the shattered coffee table. Maybe this will come in handy for her in the future... “So, what are we going to do about this?” Liz shouted for Fernando to hear. Fernando returned with a broom and a dustpan in hand. “Don’t tell me you’re going to sweep this up!” Liz reacted horrified. “Let the maid clean it up on Monday!” “I won’t have a living room full of glass shards until Monday. I want to watch TV tomorrow!” Fernando’s ferocity