AllFreeNovel
Share Us
His words sound sincere, but unease prickles my skin. I need to tread carefully. Trust no one. I have no reason to feel this way about Juan. After all, he is the only living relative I have. He's my mother's sister's son. Unfortunately, his parents died in the same plane crash that took my Mama's life.
The doorbell rings signalling Clara's arrival. Now the real test begins. I open the door to find Clara standing there, her eyes solemn.
"Come in, please," I say, ushering her into the parlor. Juan rises from his chair as we enter.
"Clara, this is my cousin, Juan Torres," I say. They exchange tense nods.
"What is she doing here?" asks Juan.
Both Clara and I ignore him.
"What did you need to discuss, Isabella?" Clara asks, getting right to business.
I take a deep breath. "As you know, my father's death was ruled as murder in revenge by one of the many people he's angered in his lifetime. But I...I have doubts."
Clara's eyes sharpen. "Go on."
"I believe he may have been murdered for a different reason. Someone wanted something from him and might still want it. I don't believe his death was by an enemy itself. It could be a foe posing as friend." I say in a rush.
Juan sucks in a breath. Clara's gaze turns piercing.
"With papa gone, I've inherited the tequila empire. I need to know who murdered him. What if that person is in my corner, pretending to be my ally?" I explain.
Clara nods slowly. "A logical conclusion. But do you have proof?"
I wring my hands. "No hard evidence. Just a feeling, in my bones. Actually, I received this note." I share it and they read it. I explain the situation pertaining to it and continue. “You see, they’re courageous enough to have it delivered to my doorstep, with no fear of consequence. Call it instinct, but I believe my father’s ally knows how our world works. Knows the note would be delivered straight to me and not to a press room. He knows it would rile me up. He knows the cops would do nothing. He knows me and my world.”
Clara and Juan exchange a look. He steps forward.
"Isabella, perhaps we should take precautions. If what you say is true, I fear you could be next. A prime target. I have connections in New York who could protect you," Juan says.
I hesitate. The thought of leaving everything behind fills me with uncertainty. But staying could mean death.
"Let me think about it," I say finally.
Clara touches my arm, her eyes solemn. "Trust your instincts, Isabella. But trust no one else."
Her words send a chill down my spine. I have only myself to rely on now. I nod, letting Clara's warning sink in. She's right - I can't fully trust anyone anymore. Not even family.
Juan frowns, looking between us. "Surely you don't mean me. I only want what's best for Isabella."
I force a smile. "Of course, Juan. But these are dangerous times. Caution is key."
He sighs. "You're right. That's why you must go to New York. I'll make the arrangements today."
My heart pounds as I consider his offer. To flee under cover of darkness, leaving my home and birthright behind. But staying could mean betrayal or worse.
"Give me until tomorrow to decide," I say finally. "I need time to think. Who will take care of me in New York?"
"We have allies," says Juan. "For your safety, it's better I don't divulge. What if by error, someone slips up and people know where to find you?"
Clara narrows her eyes, perching her lips.
I know he speaks the truth. Each moment I remain feels heavier with dread. But the choice still weighs on me.
Clara turns to Juan. "Let her ponder this carefully," she says. "Rash decisions now could prove unwise."
Juan dips his head in acquiescence. "Of course. Forgive my urgency, Ms. Herrera. I only want my cousin protected."
