The luxury of the five-star hotel in downtown São Paulo stood in stark contrast to the tension thickening between César and Isabela. As soon as they entered the suite, Isabela tossed her purse onto the sofa and walked straight to the minibar, pouring herself a glass of red wine. César, always composed and calculating, removed his suit jacket and loosened his tie, his eyes fixed on her with quiet intensity.

“Thor and Celina are back,” Isabela said casually, swirling the wine in her glass.

“I alr