Chapter 147: She is gone
He turned to her, the corner of his mouth twitching like it wanted to smile but didn’t dare.
"I told you," he said. "I’d pursue you properly once you were a free woman. And now you are."
He moved closer, slow and deliberate, placing a plate of food in front of her—warm, savory, rich. The kind of meal that reminded you there was still blood in your body, still strength in your bones.
"First, I get you his head," he said softly. "Then I’ll focus on winning your heart."
Mara let out a soft sigh, her expression unreadable. "I’m not in the mood to laugh, Rafael."
"Good," he said without missing a beat, pulling out a chair. "We need strength to fight. And strength needs food."
She stared at the plate for a moment longer, fork resting in her fingers like a weapon she had forgotten how to wield. Then, slowly, deliberately, she took a bite.
It was the first food she’d eaten in days. And it tasted like fuel. Like purpose. Like vengeance, dressed in salt and butter.
Each bite was a small declaration: I will rise.
Rafael watched her, saying nothing, just being there. Not pressing. Not pushing. Just present. Just real.
"You said you’d get me his head," Mara said after a few moments. "What’s the plan?"