In the Sterling Mansion library, Abner stood by the door. His expression was serious as he examined it. Alice, lost in thought, perused one of the bookshelves nearby.“D’you notice anything different about the door, darling?” Abner queried.Alice glanced over. “What do you mean, dear?”“It looks like it’s been kicked. And it’s not closing properly,” Abner remarked, giving the door a test push which confirmed his suspicion of loose hinges.Turning to face him, Alice frowned. “That’s odd. It seemed fine to me.”“Matt was here yesterday. Must’ve heard some bad news,” Abner speculated, a sly grin forming.“What news could he have heard?” Alice inquired.“Maybe he got wind that Jasmine was scheming an escape from her punishment. But according to Leonardo...”Abner’s phone rang, vibrating loudly on the desk. His smile widened upon seeing Fernando’s name and he answered promptly.“Hello, Fernando?”On the other end, Fernando, from his office at Silva Oil Company, relayed information to Abner
At Sterling University Square, Matthew waits anxiously for Patricia, expecting her to arrive soon. Walter spots him sitting alone at one of the kiosk tables and approaches with a friendly smile.“Hey, Matt! Clay hasn’t shown up yet, huh?” Walter asks, trying to engage his friend.Matthew’s expression remains serious as he replies, “No, he hasn’t. But I’m not here for snacks. In fact, I don’t have much of an appetite.”“Wow, big mystery... What’s going on?” Walter inquires, sensing the gravity of the situation.“Take a seat, man,” Matthew gestures, indicating the empty chair opposite him.Walter obliges, feeling that Matthew is troubled by something significant.“Tell me, my friend. What’s happened?” Walter’s concern is evident.“I’ve made a startling discovery. It seems Patty orchestrated some maneuvers to win me over,” Matthew reveals with a tone heavy with disappointment.“I always told you she had feelings for you, man. It’s natural for her to make a move, especially since Cindy di
At Sterling University Square, Matthew swiftly assumes a protective stance as David approaches with an air of authority. Patricia turns around, startled by the unexpected encounter.David’s voice drips with mockery as he addresses Matthew, “Ah, I can’t believe it! Matthew Sterling, the great promised heir of the Sterling Empire, is being fooled for the second time by the second lying girlfriend!”Bryce interjects with a cynical remark, “It’s like it happens in Hollywood, David: the guy’s brain is filled with business and he doesn’t think about love.”Patricia stands up with resolve. “David, your problem is with me! Come at me, don’t bother Matt!”The university students watch in astonishment as Patricia displays a newfound courage.Surprised by Patricia’s boldness, David responds, “Patty, what are you talking about? I don’t want to hurt you. You’re a woman, and I’m a gentleman. I promised you that!”Patricia’s smile is tinged with irony. “Funny, it doesn’t seem like it. I was just inf
Emmanuelle and Jacqueline warmly welcome Zachary into their living room, gesturing for him to take a seat on the plush couch. Gumercindo appears with a coffee tray.“Here’s the coffee! Mr. Loss, please help yourself,” Emmanuelle offers graciously.“Thank you, Mrs. Andrade,” Zachary replies with a polite nod, accepting the coffee.Turning his attention to Jacqueline, Zachary asks, “Jacque... how are you doing?”Jacqueline, pouring a cup of coffee for Zachary as if she were his wife, responds with a touch of grace, “I’m better, moving on with my life.”Zachary then shares his recent experiences.“Can you believe Jasmine still hasn’t formally apologized to me? It’s as if we were never friends!” Zachary exclaims, clearly bothered.Emmanuelle offers a different perspective. “Perhaps you should see it as a blessing, Mr. Loss.”“Well,
In Walter’s office at the Andrade Clinic, a family conversation was unfolding. Walter, now in formal attire, sat behind his desk, while his mother and younger sister stood nearby.“Mom, sis, please sit down,” Walter suggested.“I’m quite comfortable standing,” Emmanuelle replied.“I’ve watched more episodes of that Korean drama, and now I want to improve blood circulation in my legs,” Jacqueline chimed in with a playful tone.Walter chuckled. “You two are such teasers. Any news?”“It’s Jacque who has to tell you that,” Emmanuelle hinted.Curious, Walter turned his attention to Jacqueline. “Jacque...”Jacqueline blushed, feeling a bit nervous. “Oh, goodness... you guys are making me nervous...”“Let me guess: Zachary Loss visited you today and sent you flowers?”Emmanuelle burst into laughter, and Jacque
In the afternoon, inside Ronaldo’s office at Silva Oil Company, Jasmine felt desperate at the thought of organizing more charity events, something she disliked due to her prejudices. Leonardo and Matthew intervened, physically grabbing her and compelling her to cooperate despite her reluctance. Ronaldo observed with regret, shaking his head at the situation.After releasing Jasmine, Leonardo and Matthew saw her nearly collapse to the floor, overwhelmed with tears and sobs.“Stop with the theatrics,” Leonardo said firmly. “You must voluntarily dedicate yourself more to building pride and resilience.”In a trembling voice, Jasmine replied, “Grandpa... I can’t!”“Give me one good reason,” Leonardo demanded.“I haven’t even had time to visit the beauty salon! My hair is infested with lice,” Jasmine exclaimed.Matthew exchanged a glance with Ronaldo, silently indicating
It’s already evening. Hélio opened the door for his children to enter his office, closed it, and then looked at them with a serious expression.“It’s a shame that we have to talk like this, seriously, as if we were strangers,” Hélio began.“Dad, I didn’t want you to hate me,” Patricia said with a trembling voice.“My dear daughter, I will never hate you,” Hélio reassured her.Patricia swallowed hard, unsure of what to say next.“You might hate me after I confess the truth,” Patricia continued, her eyes shifting nervously from her father to her brother.Jackson interjected, “Dad, you need to understand first that Patricia has always loved Matthew, and she has more right than Cindy to be his woman.”“I don’t disagree with that,” Hélio responded.“But since Matt never saw my little sis as a woman, Patty
Hélio and Jackson sat in armchairs, beginning to discuss Patricia’s recent actions.“Dad, first of all, I want to say that I’m sorry,” Jackson started.Hélio’s expression turned stern. “Jackson Borges, always remember that we are a decent family. I didn’t raise you to be involved in clandestine and immoral relationships.”“I HAD to do it to ensure my little sister’s happiness!” Jackson defended himself.Hélio appeared confused. “It doesn’t make sense to me that you wanted to be in a relationship with your friend’s ex-girlfriend. You supported your sister’s plan to manipulate Matthew into—”“No, Dad! Don’t put it like that. Patty... she was just desperate! She couldn’t play fair because Cindy wasn’t a fair player,” Jackson interrupted, trying to explain.Wisely, Hélio remarked, “If the game is rigged, deceitful, and unfair, it’s up to Patricia not to play. The moment she decided to play, she stooped to Cindy Cardoso’s level. So, she has no right to criticize the journalist. And you, in
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