Ernesto Plays a Dangerous Game
While this unfolded in Tlaquepaque, across the city in Guadalajara, Ernesto smiled at a bar with Brenda.
Cold glasses. Warm lights. Soft music.
“You’re sure everything is under control?” she asked, turning her glass.
“Completely,” he said. “She’s legally responsible for what she signed. She doesn’t even know.”
Brenda watched him — admiration mixed with caution.
“You’re brilliant, so confident,” she murmured.
He ordered another bottle, thrilled with a new deal arranged by Brenda. She had convinced him to move his most valuable shares into a trust that would “protect” him.
Blinded by ego, he didn’t read the details. He signed everything she gave him. He couldn’t imagine Brenda would betray him — after all, he had left his family for her.
“You know,” Ernesto laughed, “I never understood why men lose control over women.”
Brenda smiled. “I understand,” she said, her gaze suddenly cool.
