บท 35: I'm taking care of everything

As I stepped out of the cab and walked up to my apartment, the weight of the day pressed heavily on my shoulders. The thought of seeing Carmen again tomorrow brought a mixture of anticipation and anxiety. We had a plan, but there was so much at stake. I needed to focus and be prepared for whatever came our way.

I fumbled with my keys, my mind racing with thoughts what was happening right now and that this scandal was going to be difficult to put away. As I opened the door, I was taken aback to find my mother and sister, Clara, sitting in my living room. Their faces were stern, and I knew immediately that this was not a social visit.

"Mom, Clara, since when did you came back weren't you in vaccation?" I asked, trying to keep my voice steady.

My mother stood up, her expression cold and disapproving. "We need to talk, Elena. This nonsense with Carmen Steele has gone too far."