She is gone

He turned to her, the corner of his mouth twitching like it wanted to smile but didn't dare.

"I told you," he said. "I'd pursue you properly once you were a free woman. And now you are."

He moved closer, slow and deliberate, placing a plate of food in front of her—warm, savory, rich. The kind of meal that reminded you there was still blood in your body, still strength in your bones.

"First, I get you his head," he said softly. "Then I'll focus on winning your heart."

Mara let out a soft sigh, her expression unreadable. "I'm not in the mood to laugh, Rafael."

"Good," he said without missing a beat, pulling out a chair. "We need strength to fight. And strength needs food."

She stared at the plate for a moment longer, fork resting in her fingers like a weapon she had forgotten how to wield. Then, slowly, deliberately, she took a bite.