Chapter 11 - The Setup
Valeria was emboldened by her legal victory. Knowing that the courts were in her family's pocket, she decided to shift her strategy. If she couldn't get rid of Sofía directly while the security was tight, she would eliminate the only person standing in her way: Lucía.
It happened on a quiet Tuesday afternoon. Alejandro was at his corporate office attempting to manage a crisis caused by the Montenegros pulling their shipping contracts. Isabella was out rallying her own social allies. Lucía was alone with Sofía and a few household staff members.
Lucía went to the laundry room in the basement to retrieve Sofía's favorite blanket. As she pulled the warm fabric from the dryer, two police officers suddenly marched down the stairs, led by the head housekeeper, Maria.
"That's her," Maria said, pointing a shaking finger at Lucía, avoiding her gaze.
"Lucía Silva?" the taller officer asked, his hand resting on his duty belt. "We have a warrant to search your quarters and your personal belongings."
"My belongings?" Lucía asked, thoroughly confused. "Why? What is this about?"
"We received an anonymous tip regarding the abuse and endangerment of a minor," the officer stated coldly.
Lucía’s heart stopped. She followed them in a panic up to her small bedroom near the nursery. The officers tore through her modest belongings. Within minutes, the second officer pulled a small, clear plastic bag from beneath Lucía’s mattress.
Inside the bag were several crushed white pills and a vial matching the exact one Valeria had used in the kitchen.
"I have never seen that in my life!" Lucía cried, stepping back in absolute horror. "Someone put that there! You have to believe me!"
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"Turn around and place your hands behind your back," the officer ordered, pulling out a pair of metal handcuffs. "You are under arrest for the attempted poisoning of Sofía Reyes."
Valeria hadn't just tried to get away with murder; she was actively framing the savior.
