Episode 9

Upon leaving the room, Larissa could not shake off her bemusement at Santiago's demeanor. She was perplexed by the notion that he might harbor feelings for her, but perhaps it was wiser to believe he merely intended to offer his help. She was not ready to be with someone, and she knew that she wasn't capable of making another person happy.

Meanwhile, Demir had been doing odd jobs with Charly. However, he truly felt that it wasn't his calling; betraying his own heart, he tried to use the money he had earned to secure a position with the military police, a role he greatly aspired to. He knew that from a higher rank, he could help clean out the corruption rife within the force. Although he was aware of the money's dubious origins, he hoped to use it for the betterment of the institution he so dearly esteemed.

Charly, on the other hand, did not consider it a wise move, but he found the idea of climbing the ranks amusing too, thinking it would make his mother proud to see him so.

Santiago

Santiago also made attempts to aid Larissa by hiring a trustworthy man to uncover her identity. At the same time, he was intrigued by everything she had confided in him.

He was a man who held a deep mistrust for women; having known so many, with all their varied intentions, it was impossible for him to believe in them.

Marcos, his confidant, became curious about the young woman—it was extremely rare for Santiago to want to assist an employee, much less a dancer from his bar.

Santiago ended the call and turned his gaze to Marcos, who stood in his office looking at him quizzically.

“What? What's the problem?” asked Santiago, slightly irritated, fully aware of what Marcos was thinking.

“It’s just odd, Mr. Santiago doing this,” remarked Marcos with a mocking grin.

“I just want to help her. Did I tell you what she shared with me?” Santiago said.

“Yeah, but don’t you find it strange? Isn’t anyone looking for her?” questioned Marcos.

“Yes, she mentioned they were looking for her, but those people wanted to kill her,” responded Santiago.

“Hmm, and why would they want to kill her? Have you thought about that?” pressed Marcos.

“Yes, I know, that's why I’ve arranged an investigation. We’ll see how much of a victim Larissa really is in all of this,” Santiago said, leaning back in his chair.

Marcos, for his part, decided to leave Santiago’s office.

DEMIR…

Demir had managed to acquire the necessary funds to purchase his promotion. It was a joyous day as it marked a step forward in discovering what had happened to his sister Larissa. The mystery plagued him, and living with it was unbearable; he only wished to know where she was buried. For him, it would suffice to find evidence of whoever had harmed Larissa, but he was content with just the chance to locate her and provide a dignified burial.

PEÑALOZA:

After the incident involving Larissa, Peñaloza feigned a trip abroad as an alibi. He ceased maintaining close ties with Demir but always inquired about any news regarding Larissa, preparing himself to flee if necessary. A year had passed since Larissa's disappearance, and as time progressed, it became increasingly difficult to find leads. Nonetheless, he was well aware that Demir, despite not sharing much about his progress or feelings, would not rest until he found the culprit. Seeing him calm was something new, but Peñaloza knew it to be a strategic ploy.

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