章 134: Telling Her The Truth

Rafael adjusts his tie in the mirror of his office, trying to shake off the nerves. He knows he's running out of chances with Vanessa. Her message from the other night still echoes in his mind, and tonight's meeting is crucial.

Just as he checks his watch, mentally calculating the time he needs to get to the café, there's a knock on his office door.

"Come in," he says, his tone calm despite the knot tightening in his chest.

The door opens, and to his surprise, his father, Mr. Teixeira, steps inside. Tall and imposing, dressed in an impeccable navy suit, his father exudes the same commanding presence Rafael has known all his life.

"Father," Rafael says, standing immediately, masking his surprise with a polite smile. "I wasn't expecting you."

Mr. Teixeira closes the door behind him, his expression as unreadable as ever. "I had some business in the city and thought I'd stop by. It's been a while since we had a proper conversation."