Page 27

“I told you, it was just a visit,” I say, praying that Pedro didn’t tell Juan about the other times I left early. “My cousin needed me, so I went. Should I have asked permission?”

“We have no secrets in this family.” Juan’s eyes narrow. “You know the rules.”

“I remember them every day,” I retort, holding his gaze. “I haven’t forgotten where my loyalty lies. It’s with my family, and she’s our cousin. I didn’t tell you because I didn’t think you’d mind. In fact, I thought you would be happy.”

“You didn’t tell me before you went.”

“You’re a busy man and I didn’t want to bother you with something so inconsequential.”

“Family is important,” he mutters.

“I agree, completely.” I relax slightly, hoping the worst has passed.

“Don’t miss work again.” It’s an order, one he expects to be followed without question. “I will send money to Camila. Let her know it’s coming.”

“Gracias, Juan. She will be very happy.” I make a mental note to text her so she won’t be surprised. I should go visit soon too, just in case Juan calls to check on her.

The room’s air turns heavy as Juan sits beside me. He leans back, a satisfied grin curling his lips. It’s the smile of a predator that’s cornered its prey, and I brace myself for the strike.

“Good,” he says, and then, almost casually, he drops the bombshell. “I need you at the warehouse because we have plans, big plans.”

“Oh, like what?” I ask, pretending to care.

“Underground Vengeance is building a new clubhouse, but it won’t be standing for long.”

A cold dread grips my heart and squeezes. My breath hitches, and I fight to keep my reaction invisible, knowing any sign of horror could be a death sentence.

“Really?” I manage, feigning nonchalance while my mind reels from the implications of his words.

“Sí,” Juan confirms, his cruel smile widening. “It’s time they learn not to mess with Los Serpientes de Cristal once and for all. We blew up their last clubhouse. Now it’s time to do it again.”

I nod, but inside, I’m screaming. I must warn Ice. Somehow, someway, I have to stop this madness before it’s too late.

“Is there a problem?” Juan asks, his voice laced with challenge.

“No problem,” I lie smoothly, offering him a false smile. “Just thinking about how they won’t see it coming.”

“Exactly,” Juan agrees, his voice rich with dark satisfaction.

As he continues to outline his brutal plan, my hands clench into fists at my sides, nails digging into my palms. I struggle to retain self-control. I imagine fire licking at the wood, and the UVMC clubhouse turning to ash. I see Ice’s charred remains and bite back a scream.

“Isabella, are you even listening?” Juan’s piercing gaze cuts through my thoughts.

“Of course, I’m listening,” I say, my voice steady despite the storm raging inside me. The walls of my cottage feel like they’re closing in, and every word he utters is a thunderclap forewarning destruction.

“Good,” he says, satisfied, oblivious to the turmoil he’s inciting. “Because we’ll need everyone on board.” His eyes scan my face, searching for any hint of dissent.

“What do you mean?” I ask, shocked. He can’t possibly want me to participate in burning down the clubhouse.

“It’s time you saw more of what we do. You will come with us to watch it burn.”

“Do I have to help?”

“Of course not.” He chuckles. “A woman helping,sobre mi cadaver. But I want you to watch. We will…”

I nod, barely listening to the details of his sick plan as I try to play my part in this charade. I can’t let him suspect that my loyalties might lie elsewhere.

“…in three days,” he finishes.