Amelia’s sharp reply left everyone present dumbfounded, while Don Aurelio regained his composure and stood up straight, clearly infuriated. Alejandro, however, remained paralyzed on the threshold of the room, unable to tear his eyes away from his wife.

Every word from Amelia had resonated deeply in his chest, like blows waking him from a long and confusing dream.

Romaira, who was standing near Don Aurelio, turned pale and stepped in front of Amelia.

"This is a farce!" she exclaimed. "It can't b