Desperation

Carmen cleared her throat, looking up at him again.

"I’m not making a fool out of you, Mister Monteiro. There’s something more important I need to ask you,” Carmen said quickly.

Romero narrowed his eyes. “You’re changing the subject.”

“Did your father ever mention anything about money diversion in the company? Before his passing?” Carmen pressed on, refusing to let him derail her.

Romero’s expression became sullen, his jaw tightening as he stared at her. “Don’t try to distract me with business, Carmen.”

Carmen swallowed, keeping her gaze stable despite her nerves failing her. “This isn’t a distraction. It’s important. If there was anything suspicious at all, I need to know. This could affect the future of the company. You have to tell me if your father ever–”

“Stop,” Romero interrupted, his tone crisp. His eyes bore into hers. “You’re avoiding the real issue. Answer me first.”