You were two months pregnant, and the news had turned Carlos into a man you barely recognized. The cold, calculating mafia boss who could command a room with a single glance was now a bundle of nerves. He hovered around you constantly, his hands always finding their way to your belly, as if he could already feel the life growing inside. His transformation was startling — gone was the ruthless man feared by many, replaced by someone tender, attentive, and utterly devoted.

But even in this newfound softness, the shadows of his world lingered. You trusted Carlos implicitly, but Mariana... she was another story. The daughter of one of Carlos' old associates, she had a way of making you uneasy. Maybe it was the way her eyes lingered on him a second too long, or the way her voice softened when she spoke to him. Whatever it was, it set your instincts on edge.

That evening, the Sainz family had gathered for a dinner at Carlos' parents' house. It was a rare occasion, a mix of family and business, with associates mingling over wine and laughter. You sat on the couch, your hand resting protectively over your stomach as you chatted with Ana, Carlos' sister. She was thrilled about the baby, her excitement infectious as she peppered you with questions about names and nursery colors.

Across the room, Carlos stood with Mariana. You tried to ignore them, focusing on Ana's chatter, but your eyes kept drifting back. Mariana's hand brushed Carlos' arm, and she smiled — a smile that felt too intimate, too knowing. Carlos smiled back, and something inside you snapped. You snorted audibly, rolling your eyes as you turned back to Ana, who raised an eyebrow but said nothing.

Moments later, Carlos was at your side, his expression a mix of confusion and concern. "Mi amor” he began, his voice low and soothing "she was just talking about business. Don't be like that." He reached for your hands, trying to uncross your arms, but you pulled away, your lips pressed into a thin line.