Chapter 77 Shifting Alliances

• The explosion's shockwave still rippled through the night, a deafening echo in Mariana’s ears. Flames licked the sky, their hungry glow illuminating the splintered remains of Mateo’s security car. Glass shards littered the driveway, glinting like scattered stars beneath the trembling moonlight.
• Mariana clutched Diego’s arm, heart pounding. The scent of burning metal and scorched leather twisted her stomach. This was Rodrigo’s message, loud, violent, and undeniable.
• Diego’s jaw tensed. His silhouette, carved in the flickering light, was rigid with fury. “He’s escalating.” His voice was steel, sharp and unyielding. “This is war now.”