“I know,” the young woman responded after a while, “but I can’t end my alliance with Mr. Lison. I signed some documents…”

“There’s a way to invalidate that,” said Elena, now a bit calmer.

Libia shrugged.

“Talk to him and tell him you’ve reconsidered and are no longer interested in his proposal. If he’s so eager to partner with Musso Enterprises, he can deal directly with me.”

“Alright…” the young woman replied in a barely audible voice.

“For the first time, I’m grateful my brother isn’t here anymore.” Elena studied her niece’s face carefully. “You can’t imagine the sadness he would feel seeing what you’ve become.”

Libia’s eyes widened, slowly processing what she had just heard.

“You’re nothing but promiscuous. There’s no one more pathetic than those who have to pay for love. You don’t uphold our family name. You’re a failure!”

Libia felt a sharp pain in her chest. For a moment, she imagined her father delivering those words.

“I’m sorry,” she apologized, lowering her gaze.

Elena said n