That evening, he entered Lucía’s room without greeting her.

“What did you tell them?” he demanded quietly.

Lucía met his eyes with unexpected steadiness.

“The truth.”

“No one will believe you. You were sedated.”

“Not completely.”

He stepped back.

“You have no idea who you’re dealing with.”

“I do,” she answered softly.

The door opened. Carmen and the doctor stepped inside.

“Mr. Martinez, your visitation privileges are suspended while the review continues.”

“This is absurd.”

“It’s precautionary.”

He cast Lucía a final look — anger mixed with disbelief.

“You haven’t won.”

She held his gaze.