A lie built by Antonio.
A lie she was forced to carry.
Isabella reaches her room and closes the door behind her. She expects silence, but instead.
A soft sound behind her.
She spins.
Maria stands near the window, hands folded, expression unreadable.
Luca draws his gun instantly.
"What the hell? Isabella, I searched this room."
Maria lifts her palms.
"I let myself in. I know every hidden door in this mansion. I was her maid… remember."
Isabella's voice is sharp with anger and exhaustion.
"You are not supposed to be alone. You're under guard."
Maria nods.
"That is why I came before they noticed I was gone. I need to tell you the rest… before someone silences me."
Isabella's pulse spikes.
"The rest?"
Maria's eyes glisten.
"About your mother. About the night she was taken. About the man involved, the one who destroyed everything."
Isabella steps closer despite herself.
"Tell me."
Maria's voice drops to a trembling whisper.
