Chapter 29 - The Meeting of Predators
Two days later, Natalia stood in the center of her massive, glass-walled office. The view of Guadalajara was breathtaking, but her focus was entirely on the tiny, high-definition microphone discreetly taped beneath her silk blouse.
Elena was in a surveillance van parked three blocks away, sitting alongside two federal agents monitoring the live audio feed.
At exactly 2:00 PM, the heavy oak doors opened. Mauricio Salazar walked in, looking incredibly smug and victorious. He assumed his campaign of terror had successfully broken the independent female architect.
But he wasn't alone. Walking right behind him, wearing a cheap suit and a gloating, arrogant smirk, was Javier.
Natalia’s blood ran cold for a fraction of a second, but she instantly suppressed the reaction. She maintained her composure, projecting an aura of defeated exhaustion.
"Natalia," Salazar smiled, taking a seat in the plush leather chair opposite her desk without being asked. "I was delighted to receive your call. I told you that you were playing in a deep ocean. I see the recent... unfortunate incidents at your construction site have helped you see reason."
Javier sneered, crossing his arms. "You should have just taken the deal from the start, Natalia. You always were too stubborn for your own good. It cost you dearly."
Natalia looked at Javier with absolute, icy contempt. "I didn't expect you to be here, Javier."
"I am Mr. Salazar’s chief acquisition consultant," Javier boasted, puffing out his chest. "I advised him that applying pressure to your weak points would yield immediate results. I know you better than anyone."
Keep talking, Natalia thought, praying the microphone was picking up every single word of his pathetic confession.
May you like
"So, you admit that you were behind the vandalism at the eco-resort?" Natalia asked, keeping her voice trembling slightly, playing the terrified victim flawlessly. "You destroyed my machinery to force me to sell this building?"
Salazar laughed, a dark, rumbling sound. "Let us not mince words, Natalia. Yes. My men executed the operation, using the security schedules your ex-husband so kindly provided. It was a business tactic. Nothing personal. Now, let us discuss the transfer of the deed."
